Promises To Kingdom Builders
11 “But now [in this period since you began to build] I am not to the remnant of this people as in the former days, says the Lord of hosts. 12 For there shall the seed produce peace and prosperity; the vine shall yield her fruit and the ground shall give its increase and the heavens shall give their dew; and I will cause the remnant of this people to inherit and possess all these things”. Zechariah 8:11-12 Amplified
Too often we just cruise through life, taking what comes and adapting to it. But as believers in Jesus and followers of His, we are supposed to be active in His kingdom building. There are blessings to those who are involved in the building process.
In Zechariah chapter 8, God is speaking through the prophet to Jerusalem. He is speaking about the great future He has for His city and His people. It is a word that speaks of the coming promises for the Jewish people. It is also a Word that speaks of our position in Him right now as those who are in covenant with Him.
We are in His covenant and have all the promises that He has made. We have every one of them, but it also struck me that in this verse He was talking about His promises to those of His (in covenant as we are now), but specifically to those in the period of building.
What are we doing in this life to build the kingdom? What are we doing to build the hope of the Gospel to those who don’t know Jesus, to build the strength of the Word in those who do? We need to build up others in their knowledge and understanding of Him so they are strong in their relationship with Him.
For those who are building, He speaks of them as having the prosperity and promises of the Lord. The seed that is planted by the builders will yield a return and they will prosper. Not only does the seed planted by the builders provide a harvest, but it also gets a by-product, which is peace. When you are actively building the kingdom, you can rest assured of His faithfulness to provide for all your needs and to bless you with abundance because He is abundant to those who trust Him and obey.
But beyond the prosperity, it speaks of the peace that comes as well. You can be at peace regarding all things in your life when you live the life of a kingdom builder. His final promise is that He will cause His people to inherit what He provided for them. Don’t worry about how you will be able to do the work He has called you to. He will cause you to inherit and possess what He has established for you.
J Todd Hostetler