Only by the Spirit

 It is so frustrating for us to try to do something, but we just can't do it. It might be a lack of physical strength. It could be that we can't figure it out with our brain and our ability to reason. When we come to the end of our ability, we have to give up and ask for help. Even then, there are some things that are not humanly possible. Some things can only be done by supernatural power.

That was God's message to Zerubbabel in the time of Zechariah. (Zechariah 4:6) The messenger of God told Zechariah that God's word to Zerubbabel was it was not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit says the Lord of hosts. This was a clear message to Zerubbabel as he was trying to get the temple of God rebuilt after the exile in Babylon. He would not be able to build the temple by human might and power, but only by the power and direction of God's Spirit.

Yes, God's people would need to put forth effort to get the materials and construct the temple, but it would not be done unless the Spirit was in charge and blessed their efforts. They could do their best to do the work, but if the Spirit didn't give them good success, it would never be completed. We need to learn this lesson for our personal life and for our family. The Bible says that we need the fruit of the Spirit in order to become as much like Jesus as possible. The Lord has to build our families, too, or we labor in vain.

This is especially true for building the church. We can't do it with human efforts and PR campaigns. Yes, we have to do our part, but only God gives the increase. Only God can save souls and add people to His church. Therefore, we must be surrendered to God and do His work in the power of the Spirit to see God's will done in Christ's Body, the church. I pray we will see our churches grow by being willing to work in the power of the Spirit.

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Tomorrow, I intend to read Zechariah 7-9.