SWHW Bible Reading Plan: October 2021Sample

Top Takeaway from Emily Copeland:

Have you ever experienced a difficult season and then found yourself apathetic towards God afterward? You love Him and are doing your best to be faithful to Him, but life isn’t taking a hard incline to the right. You're still tired and bruised. You lack the energy to give God 100%. If this is where you are or where you've been before, you will be encouraged by the very first few verses of Zechariah.

After being released from 70 years of Babylonian captivity, the nation was restored but exhausted. 

God found them weary.

God came to them as they were mid-trial.

They were looking at rebuilding, which would take years of hard labor. They had hostile enemies who complicated their efforts. They didn't have the manpower or money that they once had. And, God felt far away. 

Through Zechariah's prophecy, God spoke to the nation and said three words of restoration to cover their tired bodies and minds, "Return to me." 

"Therefore tell the people: This is what the Lord Almighty says, 'Return to me' declares the Lord Almighty, and I will return to you, says the Lord Almighty." Zech. 1:3

I have to point out that the name "Lord Almighty" is repeated three times in this verse as if to remind them once, repeat for good measure, and the third time for the people in the back. He is the Lord Almighty, and He is with His people in tough times, in good times, and in the times of the mundane routine. 

Our God is the Lord Almighty. He invites us to return to Him when our hope is waning and when our circumstances aren't that great. To return is to turn to Him. Why? Because He will turn to us, and in His proximity, we will change. 

As we turn to Him, He reaches into the murky and muddy waters of our lives and offers His closeness. The God of heaven and earth leans in and scoots closer. He fills the space, and He holds us with love and protection. His presence quiets the noise, and we are relieved as our weakness is overcome by His power. 

In every season of our lives, we must return to God by turning to Him daily. We get to choose Him because He has already chosen us. It's a beautiful relationship, partnership, and friendship. The Lord Almighty is speaking today, "Return to Me." 

God, You are good in every way. You meet every need that I have, and still You want my heart, my attention, and my companionship. As You invite me to return to You today, I will let You in and let You lead. Your love for me sets me free. I love You. Amen.