June 22-28, 2025
Recently, I hiked through the Shenandoah Mountains and came across a stunning row of Mountain Laurels. These shade-loving bushes burst with fragrant pink blossoms near the clearings—it felt like a glimpse of Heaven. As I walked, I thought of Zechariah’s vision where the Lord appears among the Myrtle Trees. I wondered—what if Jesus had appeared to me there among the Mountain Laurels? In Zechariah 1, the angel of the Lord says messengers found no one faithful—people were comfortable while others suffered. But in verse 16, God promises mercy, restoration, and a measured plan for His people. That measuring line reminds me: God has a purpose, and He invites us into it. Even now, His angels are seeking faithful messengers—those who will carry His message, care for others, and extend mercy. So I ask: How is God inviting you to be a messenger of mercy? Read the passage throughout this month and seek to be challenged by the Lord on ways you can share His message, care for others, and extend mercy to those in your path.
This week's Bible reading: Zechariah 1:1-21
Focus Verses: Zechariah 1:18-21
Theme: Mercy
Day 1: The visions from these verses speak to God's divine mastery over all corners of the world. Say a prayer thanking God that He is in control over all of the world - especially in this turbulent time.
Day 2: Look up the meaning of “horns" in the Bible. There is both a poetic and a political meaning. Write down everything you learn. How does that relate to the vision in these verses?
Day 3: Now, read Daniel 2 to learn more about the prophecy that cross-references this passage. What did you learn? What parallels did you see?
Day 4: Psalm 110:1-2 says, “The LORD said to my Lord, ‘Sit at My right hand, till I make Your enemies your footstool.’ The LORD shall send the rod of Your strength out of Zion. Rule in the midst of Your enemies!” As you think of enemies coming to terrify and tear down the strength of God’s people, pray for the Lord to make modern day enemies of the Kingdom of God our footstool. It’s His work…not ours. We are to sit at His feet and gain strength from Him.
Day 5: God could have kept His people in one area--excluding anyone outside of His kingdom. Why do you think He scattered them instead?
Challenge: Do something with intention and purpose inviting God's work through you. Find someone who you know is in need and set up a time to meet with them. Spend time listening and/or serving them. Find a way to meet one of their needs in a unique way.
Prayer Prompts and Bible Readings are provided by Michele Bowden and Lisa Brass, Coaches and Digital Missioners with Visual Faith™ Ministry. Find them on our Creative Devotion page, on Instagram @victoryinart and @aworthylif, and on the web at victoryinart.com.