Promises fulfilled in spite of disbelief

        I think there is value in reading the scripture and trying to understand it for yourself before reading the interpretation of others. There are at least two possible outcomes when reading the interpretations of others: we could be swayed to untruth or exposed to more truth. We must be careful. Nonetheless, when you are looking for help interpreting scripture, find a source (a person, commentary or footnotes) which you feel is reliable; one that has proven true again and again. 
         If you read my post yesterday, then you will be ready for today. If not, you might want to take a minute and read yesterday's post for a better understanding of today's post. 
        This morning I read this story again (see yesterday's post) along with the footnotes of my ESV study bible; this being the first time I've looked at the footnotes. I have added to my presentation of the interpretation of this scripture. It is from this clip of the story that I continue to make my presentation of this interpretation: 
       

         “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time.” 

        This dialogue takes place after Zechariah questioned the "how" of angel's announcement that the Lord will answer Zechariah's prayer for a child. In yesterday's post, I presented the position that the possible reason for loss of voice was a possible consequence due to disbelief of the message from the angel. The ESV study bible footnote suggests the later position, along with the idea that the loss of voice could be a constant reminder of the promise "which will be fulfilled in it's time." And, we do in-fact see, that Zechariah regains his voice after the birth of their son and as soon as this disbelieving father confirms Elizabeth's request to name the child John. Hence, the promise is fulfilled. 
        So our could our consequences and/or sufferings be a reminder of the promise that will be fulfilled? This is quite possible. Consider the promise of the return of Christ in relation to our present sufferings. Christians are not at home here; our spirit is made to live in eternity, face down in worship at the throne of the Father. We are not promised an easy life, but we are promised the presence of the Lord in eternity. 


Could our present sufferings be a constant reminder of the promises that will come?


I think so.