Definition: I will hiss for them, and gather them; for I have redeemed them: and they shall increase as they have increased.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zechariah 10:8. It's a pretty poetic and hopeful message about God’s care for his people. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is protecting and growing the people he has chosen. He’s actively working to help them thrive and become stronger. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “I will hiss for them” : This isn't a harsh, angry sound. It means God will react with displeasure or disapproval towards those who are resisting him or causing problems. Think of it like a protective response. “…and gather them” : God is collecting the people he’s chosen – those who are being protected and supported. “For I have redeemed them” : This is the crucial part! God has saved these people from harm or difficulty. He's taken them out of a difficult situation and given them a new beginning. “And they shall increase as they have increased” : This is the key to understanding the whole message. It means that because God has protected and helped them, their growth – their becoming better, stronger, more blessed – will continue to happen. They are flourishing and prospering under his care. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: The verse speaks of a cycle of protection and growth. God is actively working to keep his people safe and allows them to become even better versions of themselves as a result of his intervention. It’s a promise of blessing, security, and continued flourishing for those he has chosen. In short, it's about God protecting his people and allowing them to grow stronger through his grace. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part in more detail? Connect this verse to a particular story or theme in the Bible?