Pray for Rain and Mercy

O. T. #2308 "Pray for Rain and Mercy"

Oct. 26, 2022

Zechariah 10

LET IT GLOW

What a hard year. We had a dry summer in a drought, and now we are experiencing a dry fall, in a drought. I have asked the Lord for rain every day, yet it lingers to come. the fields are brown for the cattle, deer, and wild animals to eat, as well as ponds and creeks are getting very low on water. I know rain will come when God deems best. The forecast is for rain here on Tuesday and Wednesday. (I am writing this on Sunday, so I don't know if it has come by the time you read this. My faith says He will do it, answer my prayers.)

Ask ye of the LORD rain in time of the later rain; so the LORD shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field.  (verse 1)

Did you notice 3 times the word rain is used here? Each one has a different Hebrew word and meaning?

1. matar', which is rain;
2. malgowsh', which is spring or latter rain;
3. ge'shen, which is to shower violently.

The Lord God knows which rain is needed and when to give it. Perhaps His withholding rain causes us to turn to Him more desperately. then we are to give Him thanks and glory when He sends it.

This is a serious thing. As I look at our trees, I see few walnuts and pecans on our trees and in our area.  When there is no breaking open these nuts, will there be no broken hearts over the sins of our nation? We are all broken people who needs Jesus and His blessings, right? Are we confessing our sins, repenting and turning away from the world to Jesus? 

What is the Lord telling Israel, the remnant? Ask the Lord for rain so the fields become lush pastures. What is He telling us? All good things come from our loving God. Depend upon Him for all things. Share with others what God has done for us.

Often rain is referring to the Holy Spirit. God promises to pour His Spirit on Israel (Zech. 12:10) and bring them to repentance and faith in Christ. The Messiah is coming again to get His children (rapture). Are you covered with the blood of Jesus?

LET IT GROW

In verse 3, we read of the idolatrous practices Israel's ancestors had done:

• Diviners who lied, told false dreams, and comforted in vain. 
• They were led astray by false claims. 
• Instead of comfort and peace, the Israelites were troubled.
• There was no shepherd, a true messenger of God who spoke of the truth of Jehovah.

Those false teachers and leaders were going to be punished by God. His mercy was going to come upon the house of Judah. He was going to give personal care and attention to Judah. (verse 3)

Don't we all need the mercy of God? Are we trusting in His promises?

LET IT GO

Jesus, forgive us when we create idols of money, power, fame, or success. 

Your forgiveness is always there when we fail.

Only You can give us happiness and security.

How faithful You are!