Passage
Zechariah 4:1-14 (ESV)
Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch
Acts 8:26-40
Key Verse: 8:35
By the Spirit of the Lord Almighty
Date: Dec. 11, 2014
Daily Bread
Key Verse: 4:6b
First, not by human might or power (1-7). Next, Zechariah sees a gold lampstand with seven lamps on it and two olive trees supplying oil for the lamps. As lamps reveal what is hidden, so God would reveal himself through the construction of the temple. The rebuilding work faced seemingly insurmountable obstacles. But the LORD Almighty said, "Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit." The temple would not be rebuilt by Zerubbabel's human effort but by God's Spirit. God would figuratively level the mountains. The LORD Almighty encourages his people to depend on him in all their work.
Second, Zerubbabel will complete it (8-14). The LORD explains plainly that the temple will be completed under Zerubbabel's leadership. In worldly eyes the temple seems like a small matter but the LORD will rejoice to see it completed. The two olive trees represent Joshua and Zerubbabel (Mt 1:13), priestly and royal lineage which come together in Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Lord, my strength is little and lacking but you are almighty. Accomplish your will in me by your Spirit. May the work I do reveal Jesus to the world.
One Word: By His Spirit
