hen 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.” Zechariah 4:6 (ESV)

How often do we attempt to do things in our own strength? Maybe it is trying to break a habit or even overcome an addiction. We might even read the word of God and see that gossiping is wrong, yet the more we try to modify our behaviour and character, the worse it becomes. Sometimes we think that we can tackle issues with our wisdom or knowledge. We plan, and we strategize but to no avail. Every so often, we may have a misunderstanding with family and friends, which escalate into arguments as we try to get our point across in our own strength. Morally, people may depend on their excellent character and uprightness for Salvation. “I’m just a good person I treat people nicely, and I’m quite humble”. God would rather we saw our weaknesses and humbly sort Him for deliverance.

I don’t know about you, but for me, I can see how Holy Spirit with His loving care and kindness, keeps on teaching me the same thing, the same lesson. I pray I’m progressing. I love spending time in prayer, worship and the word, especially in the quietness of the night. Through negligence and busyness, I have had times where I’ve lost my way, and I’m disconnected spiritually. Anyone close enough will tell you how I grieve when I’m not in that place of communion and intimacy.

The problem is I start trying in my own strength to do the right things practically to bring about the fullness of His presence. I try to pray and do all I can to get back to that place. All my efforts are unless and heartbreaking. If your anything like me the more I fail, the more I try. I keep saying to myself if I could only do better or if I could only work harder things will be ok. But the more I try, the worse it gets and worse still, the further away the goal seems. I’m often left discouraged and very much disappointed in myself.

We thank God for the presence and power of Holy Spirit that has the power to soften the most hardened heart and to transform and conform the wildest character. All my failed attempts are to get me looking to God and not to self. To come to the end of my ability so that I can access God’s grace and ability to do all I can according to His divine purpose.

Lord, thank you for Holy Spirit who conforms us to Your will and transforms us from the inside out with no effort on our part. Lord we are so grateful we are not left alone in our sins or troubles; you have given us Holy Spirit as a comforter and friend who has all power to bring your purposes to pass in our lives. Lord teach me to surrender to your leading in Jesus mighty name.

Much Love in Christ,

Your Sister,

Ruth 
Pursuing Holiness