Look Up: Finding Strength in a Chaotic World
Based on Zechariah 1:18–21
“Then I looked up...” (Zechariah 1:18)
Those four simple words hold incredible power. Zechariah wrote them during a time of deep distress for the people of Israel. The temple lay in ruins, hope was hard to come by, and God’s promises probably felt distant. But Zechariah—like so many faithful men and women before him—chose to look up.
In times like ours, when the world feels heavy with conflict, uncertainty, and spiritual fatigue, Zechariah offers a timely reminder: Don’t look around in fear—look up in faith.
Why Looking Up Matters
Looking up is an act of intentional focus. It reminds us of where our help comes from:
“I will lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord…” (Psalm 121:1–2)
“In the morning, O Lord, You will hear my voice; in the morning I will direct my prayer to You and will look up.”(Psalm 5:3)
Jesus Himself said, “Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.” (Luke 21:28)
Zechariah’s vision began with a lifted gaze—and what he saw were four horns and four craftsmen. Sounds strange at first, but here’s what it means:
The Four Horns: Symbols of Power and Oppression
Horns in Scripture often symbolize power and strength. In Zechariah’s vision, they represent four oppressive empiresthat scattered and crushed Israel: Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome. Each of these kingdoms played a role in Israel’s suffering—but none of them had the final word.
Just as horns represented destructive power, God showed Zechariah four craftsmen—tools in His hand to undo the damage, to break the power of the horns.
These craftsmen were not just any workers. They were divine agents of justice. Each one brought down a great empire in history. And the final Craftsman? The Lord Jesus Christ—who will return one day to defeat the ultimate oppressor: the Antichrist.
God's Plan Is Still Unfolding
Even today, Israel faces hatred, conflict, and political turmoil. From ancient Babylon to the threats of modern terrorism, the pattern continues. But Zechariah reminds us that God is not absent—He is orchestrating redemption.
In the past, God used Persia to defeat Babylon.
Then He raised up Greece to conquer Persia.
Then Rome overcame Greece.
And one day, Jesus will return as the final Craftsman to defeat evil once and for all.
So, What Should We Do?
Just like Zechariah: Look up.
Not to ignore what’s happening around us—but to gain Heaven’s perspective in the middle of it. Looking up is a declaration that our help, our hope, and our future are found in God.
Reflection & Discussion Questions
In what ways have you been tempted to “look around” at your problems instead of “looking up” to God?
Which of the biblical references about looking up speaks to you the most today?
How does Zechariah’s vision give you confidence about God’s control over history—and your life?
What does it mean for Jesus to be the final Craftsman in your own personal battles?
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