“YOU ARE NOT STRONG ENOUGH”
(Zechariah 4:1 – 6:15)
“So he said to me, ‘This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty.’” – Zechariah 4:6
Think about this. Solomon built the temple – but the Babylonians destroyed it. Davd fought many battles and collected the spoil, but the remnant didn’t even have an army. All the efforts, even of God’s people, when dependent upon their human strengths and abilities, would end up in nothingness.
This is precisely the reason the Lord speaks to Zechariah the words “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit.” You see, the word “might” refers to the power of armies. The word “power” refers to the strength of an individual.
All efforts that are dependent upon the strength of groups – an army or even a church – or built on an individual’s personal strength – no matter who they are – will fall flat. It is ONLY when we depend upon the strength we receive from the Holy Spirit can we have victory! It is not by the “might” of those you are with, and it is not by your own “power” that you will have victory. It is ONLY by His Spirit!
Simple Truth:
Don’t try to make it on your own strength, or even on the strength of friends or the church! You will only be victorious as you depend upon the Lord and the power of His Holy Spirit!
Reflections & Application:
- Being a part of the church, even attending church, is important! But, it is not a substitute for the infilling of the Holy Spirit in your life!
- It is easy for us, when things seem to be going well, to think we “have it all together.” Don’t be fooled! Recognize that all you have and all you are is dependent upon God!
- Make a habit of seeking God and His Spirit’s leading and guiding you every moment of every day.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I realize that without You and Your leading, I am nothing. You are my total source for all I have today and for all eternity. I yield myself to You. Lead me and guide me in all I do and say, today, and forever. I ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.
About our Author
Tim Satryan has been in full time ministry since 1980. He has served five churches in four states. He has also served as the District Youth and Music Director for the PennDel Ministry Network of the Assemblies of God, was the Presbyter for the state of Delaware for over a decade, and for a number of years traveled with the AG Church Multiplication Network, teaching church planting and church revitalization.
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