July 10, 2021 – Zechariah 6

The vision of four chariots going in different directions on the earth, patrolling it. The picture seems to be that of God's sovereign and providential rule over his creation. This would include even those nations that opposed Israel; surely, a comforting thought for God's people.

Furthermore, the prophet was commanded to summon the people and take for them silver and gold to make a crown to set on Joshua, the high priest. Joshua would lead the work to complete the temple. When that work was finished, the Lord assured Zechariah that he would be approved by the people: “And you shall know that the Lord of hosts has sent me to you. And this shall come to pass, if you will diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God” (6:15). Interesting. God will act sovereignly to see the temple completed. Yet, it will be completed only if the people obey the voice of the Lord. Another example of a biblical writer laying, side by side, the absolute sovereignty of God and human responsibility without seeing any contradiction or tension between the two.

To the work! to the work! in the strength of the Lord,

And a robe and a crown shall our labor reward;

When the home of the faithful our dwelling shall be,

And we shout with the ransomed, “Salvation is free!”

Toiling on, toiling on,

Toiling on, toiling on;

Let us hope, let us watch,

And labor till the Master comes. –Fanny Crosby