Strange Advice for Stressful Days: Encouragement from Zechariah
In times of stress and uncertainty, encouragement can come from unexpected places. One such place is the book of Zechariah, a lesser-known but powerful part of the Old Testament. Zechariah was a prophet who spoke to a discouraged people, urging them to rebuild not just their temple but their faith in God’s promises. His words, though sometimes unusual, provide profound encouragement—what we might call "strange advice for stressful days."
A Time of Crisis and Hope
The backdrop of Zechariah’s ministry was a period of immense struggle. The Israelites had returned from Babylonian exile, full of hope, only to find Jerusalem in ruins and their rebuilding efforts stalled by opposition and fear. For 18 years, the temple remained incomplete, a constant reminder of failure.
Enter Zechariah and his contemporary, Haggai, who both challenged and inspired the people to resume their work. While Haggai focused on practical motivation, Zechariah’s approach was visionary—literally. His book is filled with symbolic visions, dramatic messages, and prophecies pointing not just to the immediate rebuilding but to the coming of the Messiah.
Strange Yet Powerful Encouragement
Zechariah’s encouragement wasn’t the usual "just keep going" pep talk. Instead, he painted vivid, sometimes puzzling pictures of God’s plans. His visions included:
A man among myrtle trees (Zechariah 1:8), symbolizing God's ongoing presence.
A golden lampstand and olive trees (Zechariah 4), reminding the people that their strength came from God’s Spirit, not human effort.
A high priest in filthy garments (Zechariah 3), showing God’s power to cleanse and restore.
These strange yet profound messages reassured the people that their struggles were not unnoticed and that God’s plans were greater than they could imagine.
The Power of Encouragement
The story of Zechariah reminds us that encouragement often comes in forms we don’t expect. Sometimes, it’s a direct word of motivation. Other times, it’s a reminder of a bigger picture—a divine perspective on our struggles. Just as the Jews needed to hear that their work mattered, we, too, need reminders that our efforts, even when they seem small, are part of a greater purpose.
Zechariah’s message is clear: even in discouragement, God is at work. His strange advice? Keep building, stay faithful, and trust in a future far greater than you can see.
If you’re facing a stressful season, take heart. Like Zechariah’s people, your story isn’t over. God is still writing it, and His encouragement—strange as it may seem—is exactly what you need.