Numbers 22:21-23:30 / Luke 1:57-80 / Psalm 58 / Proverbs 11:12-13
I appreciate prophecy. I crave hearing God’s voice, whether in my own ear or through someone else. That’s why I am fascinated by the story of Zechariah, Elizabeth and their newborn son John.
Remember, it’s been 9 months since Zechariah came out of the temple unable to speak. Everyone knew he had encountered God, but no one knew why. Then Elizabeth became pregnant, going into seclusion for 5 months. I’ve wondered why she secluded herself. Was it because she was old and not ready to announce her pregnancy? At some point everyone was going to know, and some would connect her pregnancy with Zechariah’s temple encounter.
Elizabeth’s baby recognized his cousin Jesus while they were both still in the womb. Remember John leapt inside his mother when Mary greeted them. Who says babies can’t vastly impact things prophetically?!
Now, the 9 month period has passed, the baby has been born and its time to circumcise and name him in a traditional ceremony. When asked his name, Elizabeth answers “John”, which shocks everyone because there is no family member named John. But Zechariah calls for writing implements and confirms the name.
And his voice returns. 9 months and 8 days (give or take) of silence has been broken. What’s the first thing out of Zechariah’s mouth? A prophetic utterance about the deliverance from evil for God’s people. Then he turns to his 8 day old son and speaks his destiny over him, bringing me near tears…
How often have I spoken my children’s and grandchildren’s destiny over them? Am I even aware of their destinies? To a great degree, the answer is yes, though I only see in part. Bottom line… our spoken words carry great weight.
What are you speaking over yourself and others? I challenge you to listen to what you speak this week. Are you speaking life, health, peace and destiny? If not, it’s never too late to begin.
