Zechariah and Elizabeth were elderly and childless believers, but God gave them the promise of a son who would prepare people for the coming of the Messiah. At first, Zechariah disbelieved God's promise and was humbled by God being made deaf and dumb until the child was born. We are to realise that God's design in troubles is always good - we are to wait and hope in His word. During this time of muteness, Zechariah had dwelt in God's word and promises and believed, issuing in a great song of praise after the birth of the child. We should be ready and waiting to receive God's promises, even in times of discipline. In his song of praise, Zechariah acknowledged that the promise of God is certain and that it is one of salvation for His people - the 'Horn of salvation' conquers the fears and unrighteousness of His people. Satan's weapon is that unforgiven sin will be punished, but the debt of sin and the power of the devil are removed in Christ. The promise of God is peace - Jesus was born to die, to bring us to God. The certainty of salvation in Christ is the only true cure for the condition of our hearts. Glory to God in the highest!