Zacharias and Elisabeth had a difficult trial in their lives and marriage. They were childless. However, the Lord had chosen them and predestinated (ordered) their lives. They were childless according to purpose. During the Trial, God kept them faithful. We don't understand our trials in the midst of them, but we are called to faithfulness in them, trusting the Lord. The unfruitfulness of Elisabeth's womb translates to Believers who look for fruitfulness in their own lives. In whatever tribulation or trial you are going through, trust the Lord. Stay upon his means of grace in the preaching of the word and the ordinances he gives to his church. Don't be turned to the flesh to produce fruit. Cry to your God and trust him to ripen his ordained works in you according to his gracious will and purpose. The birth of John signaled the nearness of Christ's coming. Your trials too, like an harbinger signal that Christ is near. Trust him.
