August 28, 2020
Doing God’s Work God’s Way
In 538 B.C. the Israelites returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. However, they encountered many adversaries who tried to prevent them from succeeding (Ezra 4:1-5). Discouragement set in, and eventually they were forced to stop working. God told their leader, Zerubbabel, how to proceed: “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit” (Zech. 4:6). We would be wise to follow that counsel.
Like the Israelites, we may be under pressure and unsure how to keep going. When we encounter obstacles, our tendency is to figure out the solution for ourselves, but this attitude isn’t right. Having an independent spirit may be prevalent and admired today, but it’s not how the Bible tells us to live. Instead, we are to be characterized by dependence on the Holy Spirit—giving up control and letting Him direct our actions will result in doing God’s work His way. Our life won’t be free of trouble, but we’ll experience many victories through the Lord.
When we’re depending upon the Holy Spirit, here’s what becomes evident: Without God, we would fail, and our constant companions would be worry and distress. But with Him, we receive true wisdom and divine power. Then, peace and joy accompany us—even amidst hardship (Gal. 5:22-23).
Bible in One Year: Ezekiel 4-6
