“‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of hosts” (Zech. 4:6 NKJ).
Not by might. The word might in the original Hebrew has to do with military strength. In Bible days Israel was not a war-like nation. Its rural lifestyle consisted of peaceful farming and herding of sheep and goats.
The Lord was the Israelites’ defense, and they knew it. As God’s people walked in obedience and trust. He defended them time after time. This verse reminded them that victory is not assured by massive numerical strength.
Although they had warriors to defend them, just as we have the military today to protect us, they knew that the Lord was their real security…except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain (Ps. 127:1).
Nor by power. Whereas might is a team word, power refers to what one person can do. It has to do with native ingenuity, with putting one’s nose to the grindstone, one’s shoulder to the wheel. It implies single-handedly taking the initiative and pushing past all opposition.
It is a word which speaks to loners who would rather do things alone than to work with others. Soloists, lone rangers, prima donnas, and superstars like the word power because it glories the individual.
But this message from the Lord says that it is neither by the might of men nor by the power of any one person that you and I are kept. Our security is solely dependent upon God’s Spirit. We are reminded that with the Lord there is no restraint to save by many or by few (1 Sam. 14:6). Our reliance is not on numerical strength or human cleverness. Our reliance is on the Lord!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.