Relying on the Holy Spirit: A Devotional on Zechariah 4:6

We often grip life’s demands tightly, believing that hustle and determination are the marks of faithfulness. But what happens when our strength fails and our best efforts fall short? This devotional kicks off April with a reminder that God’s power doesn’t depend on our performance but on His Spirit.

“Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.”
— Zechariah 4:6 (ESV)

God invites us to rely on His Spirit, not our hustle.

Zerubbabel’s assignment was no small thing—he was tasked with rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem and restoring the physical structure and the spiritual identity of God’s people. But the work had stalled. Discouragement had crept in. The people were weary. The enemies were loud. The resources were scarce. And the pressure? Overwhelming. Into this moment, God speaks a timeless truth: “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,” says the Lord.

This verse is more than an inspirational quote—it is a complete reorientation of how we’re called to live and lead. Human strength and determination might get things started, but they can’t sustain God’s work. What began as a calling can quickly become a burden when we try to carry it in our strength.

We live in a culture that celebrates the grind—where constant productivity is often confused with spiritual maturity. But in God’s Kingdom, dependence is the way forward. The Holy Spirit is not a backup generator for when our plans fail; He is the architect, the builder, the power source, and the guide. When we try to produce spiritual fruit without the Spirit, we end up with frustration instead of fulfillment.

Can you relate? Maybe you’ve been pouring yourself out for your family, church, or calling—yet inwardly, you feel dry. You’ve done everything “right,” but the joy is gone. That’s when this verse invites you to pause and ask: What am I relying on?

The Holy Spirit doesn’t come to energize your plans—He comes to lead you into God’s.

There’s a massive difference. One path ends in burnout, the other in a breakthrough.

And the beautiful truth? The Spirit doesn’t wait until you’ve “earned” His help. He comes to those who surrender. He brings power to the weak. He speaks gently in the noise. He guides when the path looks uncertain. Whether you’re leading a church or leading your family, His strength is available—right now.

So today, instead of pushing through on your own, lean in. Let the Spirit lead. What seems impossible in your strength becomes inevitable in His.

Action Step

Take 5–10 minutes today in quiet reflection. Write down one area of your life or ministry where you’ve been relying on your own strength. Then pray and release that area to the Holy Spirit, asking Him to lead and empower you.

“We are not sent to battle for God, but to be used by God in His battlings.”
— Oswald Chambers

How have you seen God work when you surrendered control? Share your story in the comments to encourage others.

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Prayer

Holy Spirit, thank You for reminding me that my strength will never be enough. Forgive me for rushing ahead in my power. I choose today to trust You—to let You lead, fill, and empower me. May Your Spirit shape every thought, every word, and every step I take. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Blessings,

Chad 

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