418. It all comes by God’s Spirit
Zechariah 4:6 This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.
The promise inherent in this statement of truth is that it will happen by the spirit of the Lord. It is not specified what it is that will happen or what will come about. The promise only involves the process and the means. It (whatever it is) will be by the spirit, not by might and power. It is worthwhile to remember this promise, for we are tempted to look for unmistakable signs, miracles and wonders. Jesus says, “Unless you see a sign, you will not believe.”
God can, and has, and will, use might and power like thunder, lightning, wind, storm, fire, earthquake, plague, famine, war, devastation, and other such powerful signs. Many of these “power” signs are judgments of the Law. God can, and has, and will, us might and power to effect good things like healings, casting out demons, nature miracles, resurrections, and such powerful miracles. However, this is not God’s usual or expected way of working in our world and in our lives. God usually, normally, and often works in quiet, unobtrusive, and unnoticeable ways, like in the still, small voice with Elijah. In other words, God doesn’t usually shout; He whispers. The Spirit blows where He wills; you do not see it and you don’t know where it comes from or where it goes.
“You look for signs,” but none will be given, except for the sing of Jonah. In other words, you have the Word of God to reveal God and the Truth and the Kingdom. “If they do not hear Moses and the prophets (God’s Word) neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.” The Spirit uses the Word of the Gospel to convince us of sin, righteousness, and judgment. Search the Scriptures, for they testify of Christ. Trust the Lord to work through Word and Spirit to reveal the invisible and convince. The Spirit works conversion, gives life, and answers prayers in still, small ways. If the Lord did not tell us in His Word what Is really happening we would not know it. That’s why we need this promise: It is by the Spirit. Keep your eyes and hearts open to believe the Spirit’s working.