When the news came that Elizabeth would bear a son, instead of rejoicing, Zacharias had doubt. He asked, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years” (v. 18). After years of praying for a child, Zacharias struggled to believe when the answer finally came. This reminds us how easy it is for us to doubt the promises found in God’s Word. We may continue serving God faithfully while we quietly assuming certain prayers will never be answered. Zacharias believed in God, but he limited God by human reasoning. In Zacharias’ mind age, biology, and circumstance seemed stronger than the possibility that God could answer such a prayer.
Because of his unbelief, Zacharias was struck silent until the child was born. At first glance, this may seem harsh. But God’s discipline is never cruel, it is always purposeful. In Zacharias’ silence, God was teaching him to trust in God and His infallible Word.
While Zacharias could not speak, God was speaking loudly through action. Elizabeth conceived, just as the angel had said. And in her response, we hear a beautiful declaration of grace: “Thus the Lord has dealt with me… to take away my reproach among people” (v. 25). What years of sorrow could not accomplish, God did in His perfect timing.
This passage teaches us that delayed answers are not denied promises. God’s timing is often different from ours, but it is never late. He works beyond our calendars, beyond our logic, and beyond our limitations. When God seems silent, He may be preparing something far greater than we imagine.
Zacharias’ silence also reminds us that unbelief can rob us of joy, even when God is working. While Elizabeth rejoiced, Zacharias watched quietly. God still fulfilled His promise, but Zacharias missed the privilege of proclaiming it in the moment. Faith does not create God’s power, but it does allow us to participate fully in His work.
For us today, this devotion challenges our posture while waiting. Do we trust God only when answers come quickly? Or do we believe that He is faithful even when years pass? God hears every prayer. He remembers every promise. And He acts at the appointed time.