But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. (Luke 1:13 ESV)

When faithful men of the Bible are spoken of, Zechariah is not a name often mentioned. He is only mentioned in the Gospel of Luke because he is the father of the great John the Baptist, the fore runner of the Messiah, Jesus. While there aren’t books written about him or any other mentions in the Bible, he is someone we can look to as an example of faithfulness.

Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth were old in age and did not have children (Luke 1:7). In that day, being childless usually brought sorrow to the family and shame from those around them (Luke 1:25).

Read moreLuke 1:13 – Zechariah: A Faith Example

I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:5 ESV)

My family was given a small flowering vine as a gift. It’s a beautiful leafy plant with bright yellow flower pedals, very happy looking! At first, this plant was taken excellent care of, getting watered daily and being properly positioned for prime exposure to sunlight.

However, as the newness of the thing wore off, it was put aside and forgotten until we noticed it was starting to shrivel. Immediately we poured water on the parched plant and it slowly returned to health.

Often, this simple, physical reality is played out in our spiritual lives.

Read moreAbide

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12 ESV)

Many of us have either begun, or considered beginning a, “Read the Bible in a Year,” plan. I highly encourage this. I’ve done a couple in the past, but usually, I just read and study based on what’s happening in my life. There’s nothing wrong with that, but this year, I’m making a change.

Why? Well I’m glad you asked.

Read moreHebrews 4:12 – Through the Bible in a Year