The Source of True Success

Today's Word of Wonder: Reliance

The Scripture Spotlight for Today

“So 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 Almighty.”
— Zechariah 4:6 (NIV)

The Devotion: Human Effort vs. Divine Ease

Zerubbabel was facing an impossible task: rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem after the exile. It required massive political strength, financial resources, and physical labor—what the world calls might and power. The task was overwhelming, and human failure seemed inevitable.

Today's WOW scripture is God's direct message to Zerubbabel, and it is His direct message to you. It cuts the legs out from under the most exhausting belief we carry: the idea that the success of our projects, relationships, or transformation depends entirely on our own sheer willpower and effort.

God provides the formula for overcoming any immovable mountain (Mark 11:22-23): "Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit."

• Might refers to our own human army, resources, or ability.

• Power refers to our own strength, energy, or forceful effort.

God commands us to stop relying on our own limited, draining resources and instead embrace Reliance on the Holy Spirit. This is the Breath of New Life (John 20:22) that empowers us for everything from enduring a difficult day to fulfilling a lifelong calling. The Holy Spirit provides the Capability (Philippians 4:13) needed to do what seems impossible.

A WOW Moment is realizing that if you feel utterly drained, you might be confusing the Lord's work with your own. True success—God's success—is achieved not when you strive harder, but when you surrender deeper, allowing His Spirit to do the heavy lifting.

Wonder Prompt (Actionable Reflection)

What is one huge goal or obstacle you are facing right now where you are trying to force the solution using your own "might and power"?

• Verbally declare the scripture over that situation: "Not by might, nor by power, but by Your Spirit, Lord."

• What is one thing you can choose to stop doing (i.e., stop worrying, stop over-planning, stop forcing) to make space for the Spirit to move?