November 26 -- "Not by Might, Nor by Power"

 Today's Reading: Zechariah 4 & 5

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Today's passage from Zechariah 4 presents a vivid vision of a lampstand and olive trees, symbolizing the extraordinary power of God's Spirit to overcome obstacles and accomplish His divine purposes. The lampstand, fueled by a ceaseless supply of oil from the olive trees, represents the constant flow of God's Spirit providing His people with wisdom, strength, and spiritual power. The message is unmistakable: true victory is not achieved through our own human might or effort, but by relying on the Spirit of God.

Victory in the spiritual realm is not about relying on our own limited abilities ("might" or "power"). Instead, it's about our dependence on God's supernatural strength, wisdom, and guidance. It's about recognizing our own limitations and surrendering control to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to work through us and achieve His purposes. The Spirit's enablement leads to humility, faith, and a reliance on God's sufficiency rather than our own.

Jesus reiterated the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers for effective service. In Acts 1:8, He promised that "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you." Jesus has offered us a "continuous supply" of “olive oil for our lampstand” (the Holy Spirit's power). He is here to be our Helper, the Spirit of truth, the source of power for witnessing, the agent of conviction and guidance, and the producer of spiritual fruit in our lives.

As followers of Christ, we're called to engage in spiritual tasks that may seem daunting at times. Whether it's overcoming personal struggles, sharing the Gospel, or serving others in love, we can draw inspiration from Zechariah's vision. The message is clear: it's not by your own human effort, but by the divine effort that comes only from the Spirit of the Lord.

Today, let's embrace the truth that the same Spirit who empowered Zerubbabel is at work within us, equipping us to face any obstacle and fulfill God's calling on our lives. May we cease attempting this "Christian walk" in our own strength and start to walk in the power of the Spirit, trusting in His ability to overcome every hindrance and bring about His Kingdom purposes.

Today, may you rediscover the ever-flowing oil of God’s Spirit flowing in your life. And may the grace and power of the Holy Spirit be with you accomplishing His divine purposes.