Zechariah 7:12
French (La Sainte Bible par Louis Segond 1910)
Ils rendirent leur coeur dur comme le diamant, pour ne pas écouter la loi et les paroles que l'Eternel des armées leur adressait par son esprit, par les premiers prophètes. Ainsi l'Eternel des armées s'enflamma d'une grande colère.
What Does This Mean?
This verse says that the people of Israel hardened their hearts like a diamond and refused to listen to God's law and messages given by earlier prophets. As a result, they faced great wrath from God.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a really hard rock in your backpack instead of ears. That’s how some people were back then – they didn’t want to hear anything God had to say. This made God very sad and angry.
Historical Background
Zechariah wrote this book during the Persian period, around 520 BCE. He was addressing the Jewish exiles returning from Babylon. The cultural setting reflects a time of rebuilding Jerusalem and facing challenges in faithfulness.
Living It Out Today
In modern life, consider how often we ignore advice or warnings from trusted sources because we're too stubborn to listen. This verse shows that ignoring God's guidance can lead to serious consequences.
Topics
obediencestubbornnessconsequencesprophetswrath of Godhearing God's voice
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is their heart compared to an adamant stone?
An adamant stone, like a diamond, is very hard and unyielding. This comparison shows how stubborn the people were in refusing God's message.
What kind of wrath did the Israelites face?
The wrath mentioned here refers to divine punishment or judgment for their disobedience, which could include various forms of suffering or calamity.
Who were the former prophets Zechariah mentions?
These would be earlier prophets like Jeremiah and Ezekiel who warned Israel about God's coming wrath if they continued in disobedience.
How can we avoid hardening our hearts today?
By regularly seeking God through prayer, Bible study, and community with other believers, we keep our hearts open to His guidance and teaching.