ANOTHER ONE SINGS AND PROPHESIES
In the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth, the exuberant joy of the Holy Spirit releases another song, another prophecy. Both Elizabeth and Zechariah were enabled by the Holy Spirit to express what could have not been formulated on their own. Zechariah continues his proclamation about the destiny of his son, to prepare hearts to embrace God’s ways. Then he speaks about the coming Messiah.
Remember this was the man who could not speak after an angel appeared to him and told him of his wife’s conception to come. The angel said to Zechariah, “You will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time.” (Luke 1: 20)
So Elizabeth conceived and John the Baptist was born; and Zechariah was able to speak, just as the angel proclaimed. He then blessed God and spoke about the coming Messiah.
BIRTH OF JESUS PROCLAIMED
He says, “The splendor Light of heaven’s glorious sunrise is about to break upon us in Holy Visitation, all because the merciful heart of our God is so very tender. The manifestation from heaven will come to us with dazzling light to shine upon those who live in darkness, near death’s dark shadow. And He will illuminate the path that leads to the way of peace.”(Luke 1: 76, 79)
Wow! He is releasing a mouthful. If you read the entire prophesy it is full. He had a lot to say, nine months worth, or more. He hasn’t spoken since Elizabeth’s conception. It takes a full-term baby to be born in nine months. He delivered the prophecy at the right time. The pure words of God released through this Priest, about the Lord, were untainted.
KINGDOM PRINCIPLE: God’s destiny and purpose, spoken forth, cannot be polluted with any other words.
The Pure and Anointed One, Jesus, who is about to be born, needed a pure proclamation because of His Divine nature.
Maybe there is something deeper about keeping Zechariah quiet for nine months? Choosing our words wisely is an art. I keep being reminded of the Psalms that say: “The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic.” (Psalm 29: 3)
It still amazes me that God still chooses man to be His voice and His heart.
The voice of this Priest delivered the prophecy of who’s about to be born. The Divine completeness from the Father, of the full-term Deliverer, who is coming forth to deliver His people. This is the spiritual significance of the number nine!
EMBRACE THE WILDERNESS TO BE STRENGTHENED
John the Baptist grew up in a Spirit-filled home. John, himself, filled with the Holy Spirit from conception, was drawn by God at a very young age. This family so special, destined, and purposed for God. Yet, “John chose to live in the lonely wilderness until the day came when he was to be displayed publicly to Israel.” (Luke 1: 80)
God will hide us for a season until it’s time to display Himself.
John the Baptist grew in his love for God. He positioned himself to be under the hand and heart of God, in that private place.
It’s a good place, sometimes lonely, for not too many travel here. Pressing into God, for His Divine purpose, takes disciplined listening, minimal speaking, and a time for release.
KINGDOM ASSURANCE
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