21 August | EVERYONE
«This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of hosts.» Zechariah 4: 6
Throughout the ages, God has sought men and women to whom He entrusted decisive responsibilities. Zerubbabel was one of them. God called him to lead the Jewish people back to Jerusalem after the Babylonian captivity. Zerubbabel was a man of God, but he never stopped being human and, once in Jerusalem, faced with the challenge of rebuilding the temple in the midst of enormous opposition, he became frightened and fell into the swamp of discouragement.
In those circumstances, God sent the prophet Zechariah with the message of today’s verse. Human involvement is important in any project, but it is not the main thing. When God desires to accomplish something, His plans will be carried out with man, without him, or in spite of him.
Zechariah announces that “this is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel.” The word of the Lord endures forever. It is fulfilled sooner or later. Human beings may oppose it, circumstances may be harsh and adverse, but nothing can stop what God has declared.
The leader of the people feared the difficulties that lay before him, but the word of God encouraged him, reminded him of the power that comes with victories, and Zerubbabel arose to fulfill the mission the Lord had given him.
Take Action
Today you may feel your strength waning and you find yourself out of breath. And maybe it seems impossible to face your battles. But remember that it is not with human strength that great victories come, but with the Spirit of God. Sing “By My Spirit” (if possible, with your family).