Until the advent of the automobile, horses were essential to everyday life. Today we use horses mainly for recreation and racing. But not long ago they were the main source of transportation, used in key roles in the military, on farms, and in cities.

Zechariah 6 describes a vision of four chariots. These chariots came out from between mountains of bronze (v. 1). These mountains represent the gateway to heaven. These chariots are coming from the throne room of God. The chariot was a feared and fearsome military weapon, which indicates that this would bring judgment. They are pulled by horses of different colors. If you are confused by this imagery, you’re in good company, so was Zechariah! He asked, “What are these, my lord?” (v. 4).

The angel replied that the chariots represented the “four spirits of heaven” (v. 5). They were powerful angels sent from the presence of God to go out to the whole world to bring judgment (vv. 5–6). Through their judgment, they would bring rest and peace (v. 8). The primary message is that the whole earth belongs to the Lord (Ps. 24:1). He will one day bring judgment and peace to the nations. This vision looks forward to a future time of tribulation, leading up to the Second Coming of the Messiah (Rev. 9:15).

This is a message we need to hear. Often when we look out at the world, things seem chaotic and uncertain. This vision reminds us that God has a plan. He will be faithful to carry it out. Until that day, may the Lord “strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones” (1 Thess. 3:13).

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