The Daily Devotional
Monday, October 7, 2024
Not by Might, Nor by Power, but by the Spirit
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)
Introduction
Zechariah 4:6 says, "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 of hosts.’”
This passage is a reminder that God’s purposes are fulfilled not by human strength, authority, or power but by His Spirit. Zerubbabel, tasked with rebuilding the temple, faced immense challenges. Yet, God reassured him that the work would be accomplished by His Spirit working through faithfulness, rather than human effort alone.
Reflection
Imagine carrying the Word of God into a place where it’s forbidden, smuggling Bibles across borders where faith is illegal. The tension is palpable; the consequences, dire. One such story is that of Brother Andrew, famously known as “God’s Smuggler.” Armed only with a prayer and a trunk full of Bibles, he would approach checkpoints in closed countries, praying that the guards would somehow overlook the contraband in his possession. Despite the risks, his work was driven not by confidence in his own abilities but by faith in God’s protection and provision.
Brother Andrew once recalled driving his car full of Bibles up to a guarded border. His prayer was simple: “Lord, You made blind eyes see. Now, I ask You to make seeing eyes blind.” As the guards opened his trunk, they miraculously let him pass without noticing the Bibles stacked in plain sight. This was a clear demonstration that it was not by might or by power but by the Spirit of God that the impossible became possible.
Application
Just like Zerubbabel, we may face challenges that seem insurmountable in our own lives. Whether it's smuggling Bibles into hostile nations or simply standing firm in our faith in the face of adversity, God reminds us that our strength comes from Him. We often think success depends on our preparation, our strength, or our resources. Yet, the Bible tells us that God’s Spirit, working through us, is the true source of victory.
For those who smuggle Bibles, it’s not their cunning or bravery that gets them past border guards or into dangerous territories, but rather the Spirit of God who moves and makes a way. In our own lives, we can face our fears, our uncertainties, and our struggles with the same trust. Whether our “mission” is sharing the Gospel with a neighbor, being a light in a dark workplace, or doing something as daunting as bringing Bibles into restricted nations, we do so empowered by His Spirit.
Conclusion
The lesson of Zechariah 4:6 and the testimony of individuals like Brother Andrew teach us a profound truth: when God calls us to do something, He provides the strength, protection, and success—not through our power but through His Spirit. Whether we face physical danger, spiritual trials, or daily struggles, we can rest in the assurance that God will work through us if we trust in Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the reminder that Your purposes are accomplished not by might nor by power but by Your Spirit. We lift up those who carry Your Word into places of darkness, risking everything for the sake of the Gospel. Strengthen their resolve and guide their steps, making a way where there seems to be no way. In our own lives, teach us to rely on Your Spirit rather than our strength. Help us to be bold in sharing Your love and truth, knowing that You are with us always. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
Devotional by: Rev. Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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