"The Tents of Judah" Saved

Read Zechariah 12:7, 8. In  ancient Israel, tents were a distinctive feature in the land, at times being used by shepherds  and agricultural workers.  Such people would be the first affected and would be in need of protection if an enemy nation came to attack the city of Jerusalem.  The expression "the tents of Judah" indicates that the anointed servants in our time are out in the open field, so to speak, not in fortified cities.  There they fearlessly defend the interests of the Messianic Kingdom. Jehovah of armies will save the "the tents of Judah first" because these are in the direct line of Satan's attack. 

Indeed, the historical record proves that Jehovah is defending these anointed ambassadors of the Kingdom in their "tents" out in the field.  He keeps them from "stumbling" in that he makes them strong and courageous like David, the warrior king.

Read Zechariah 12:9. Why does Jehovah "seek to annihilate all the nations"? Because they persistently oppose the Messianic Kingdom.  For harassing and persecuting God's people, they stand condemned. Soon Satan's earthly agents will undertake a final attack on God's true worshipers, which will lead  to the world situation described in the Bible as Har-Magedon.  (Revelation 16:13-16)  Responding to that assault, the Supreme Judge will defend his servants and sanctify his name among the nations. -Ezekiel 38:14-18, 22, 23. 

Satan has no weapon that can weaken the faith of quench the zeal of God's people worldwide.  Our spiritual peace, which results from Jehovah's saving power, is "the hereditary possession of the servants of Jehovah." (Isaiah 54:17) No one can forcibly deprive us of our peace and spiritual prosperity.  (Psalm 118:6) Satan will continue  to fan the flames of opposition and try to stir up tribulation.  Our loyal endurance in the face of reproach is proof that God's spirit  is resting upon us.  (1 Peter 4:14) The good news of Jehovah's established Kingdom is being proclaimed worldwide. Like stunning deterrents, many symbolic "slingstones" of opposition have been hurled against God's people.  Yet, in Jehovah strength his servants overcome  such stones, nullifying their effect.  (Zechariah 9:15) The anointed remnant and their loyal companions will not be put out of action!

We look forward to complete deliverance from the Devil's attacks.  What comfort we have in the guarantee  that "any weapon formed against us will not succeed, and any tongue at all that will rise up against us in the judgment we will condemn'!

Next time: Will  Man Ruin the Earth Beyond Repair?

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007