September 29 - Zechariah 1-7: Prisoner of Hope

While it's been a busy month with more travel than usual, it's also been a difficult month because of the adoption. Or more accurately, because of no news on the adoption and a looming six-month match deadline that gets closer everyday.

This adoption process is the.hardest.thing.I've.ever.experienced. I've been trying to take my own advice to struggle well and wait in hope, but the uncertainty of the outcome and crushing feelings of helplessness have knocked the wind out of me. We're in a huge spiritual battle for this child, and most days, it seems like the enemy is winning.

It was in the midst of another cry-fest tonight that I sat down to read Zechariah. I didn't have any preconceived notions - I'm not very familiar with this book - but I was unexpectedly infused with soul-satisfying hope. What a gift! I felt like the Lord was speaking directly to my weary heart, reassuring me that He knows, He sees, and His plan is still moving forward.

...no one had any hope left... (1:21) 

And I'll be right there with her - God's Decree (2:5) 

"Shout and celebrate, Daughter of Zion! I'm on my way. I'm moving into your neighborhood!" God's Decree. (2:10) 

Quiet, everyone! Shh! Silence before God. Something's afoot in his holy house. He's on the move! (3:13)

In Haggai's and Zechariah's time, the Jews felt discouraged and defeated as they faced opposition in rebuilding the Temple. I feel that same way as I try to follow God today and build His temple through this adoption. But God promises that He's on his way. He's on the move! Hallelujah!

Larry Crabb helped me see what that means for me today:

"If you could see right now what is happening in the unseen world, you would be filled with hope. You must trust Me for whatever tastes of glory I choose to provide in this life as you continue to build the temple. You have become a prisoner of hope... 

The hope I provide anchors a weary, empty, troubled soul in My plan. Beneath difficult feelings, hope encourages by giving you reason to persevere with the joy of anticipation. Happiness depends on present blessings, which I do not guarantee. Joy depends on future hope, which I do guarantee... 

Do not expect to feel good. You may. You may not. My work of hope reaches into the center of your soul to strengthen your character and deepen your resolve in any circumstance of life." 66 LL

When we started this blog in January, I was sure that the adoption would be completed by this time. Little did I realize how much the Word of God would provide much-needed encouragement, challenge, and hope throughout this process. Truly, God knows exactly what I need, when I need it.

As I try not to obsess over yesterday's troubles or today's problems (66 LL), Zechariah keeps it simple by reminding me of what God requires:

All this follows as you put your minds to a life of responsive obedience to the voice of God. (6:15) 

Well, the message hasn't changed. God-of-the-Angel-Armies said then and says now: "Treat one another justly. Love your neighbors. Be compassionate with each other. Don't take advantage of widows, orphans, visitors, and the poor. Don't plot and scheme against one another - that's evil." (7:9-10)

I resolve to keep my focus on the voice of God and obey what He says. Despite my circumstances, I choose to live in hope because God is sovereign, and His plan is moving forward. Without demanding the satisfaction of my way, I will believe what I cannot see and live as a prisoner of hope (66 LL), in all aspects of my life, but especially with this adoption.

What about you? Are you living as a prisoner of hope, or have circumstances overwhelmed you? What will it take for you to believe what you cannot see?