Amazing Grace
“This is what the Lord Almighty says: “Just as I had determined to bring disaster on you and showed no pity when your ancestors angered me,” says the Lord Almighty, “so now I have determined to do good again to Jerusalem and Judah. Do not be afraid. ”
Today’s Text: Zechariah 8:1-17 (Living Life Daily Devotional)
In the eight chapter of Zechariah, God declares His passionate love and renewed commitment to restore Jerusalem and dwell amongst His people in truth and righteousness. God promises that the city will once again be referred to as the ‘City of Truth’ and it will be filled with peace. The elderly and children can freely gather in the streets. What once seemed impossible will now be accomplished by His power. God calls upon HIs people to be strong and continue in rebuilding, assuring them that He will bless their work and turn their former curses into blessings. In response to God’s compassion, He commands His people to therefore live truthfully, render just judgments, and reject evil in their hearts. God desires peace and righteousness amongst His people.
When John Newton was a young man, his life was marked by rebellion and sin. He mocked God, lived a reckless life, and became deeply involved in the colonial slave trade. However one stormy night at sea, his ship almost came close to sinking. Newton in the midst of the storm cried out to God for His mercy. God had heard Newton’s prayer and through years of various interventions by the Holy Spirit, Newton’s life was transformed by the gospel. He eventually surrendered his life to Christ. The slave trader had now become a voice against slavery, an abolitionist and a preacher of God’s grace. He was also a prolific hymn author, one of his most famous hymns being “Amazing Grace”.
The third stanza of that hymn goes as follows:
“The Lord hath promised good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures.”
Zechariah 8 is a story of restoration through God’s love. His people had returned to a broken Jerusalem and discouragement filled their hearts. Yet God spoke words of hope to His people that He will dwell amongst them once more. God was not only assuring that the walls would be rebuilt but their hearts would be filled with joy once more again.
Personally in our lives, we may be filled with a few “ruins” that might’ve brought us discouragement. Things didn’t go our way. Perhaps our past may be filled with sadness and brokenness. Yet we are reminded that no one is beyond God’s reach. God’s love and mercy rebuilds what sin has destroyed. When we return to God, He doesn’t just forgive us, He restores us for HIs purpose.
No matter how broken your past and your current story may feel, remember that God is writing a new chapter in your life. Please don’t remain discouraged that things are not going your way. This is not the last chapter nor the end. Your story is still being written! Remember that God is continually transforming your life and sanctifying your heart through the gospel. His presence brings renewal and His grace rebuilds what’s been lost. It is not over. It is only through our mess that God brings His message.
May we be encouraged through this truth and continue to live a life of faith in Him.
Almighty Father in Heaven, thank you for Your amazing grace that restores broken lives. Help me believe that You are not finished with my story. Rebuild my heart with truth, fill me with. Your peace, and let my life reflect Your faithfulness. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
