Have you ever tried to complete a task all on your own, even when you know it’s a two-person job? Despite the hesitance, you start doing it all yourself. You’re capable, you know what you’re doing! But time after time, you find yourself further from the finish line with your heart and energy on empty.
 
I’ve done the same thing.
 
A few weeks ago, I moved into a new room to prepare for the fall semester. My independence got the best of me, and I began to transition my belongings into the new space without help. Sure, I could’ve made a phone call and my friends would be happy to help, but I was fine on my own. I could do this! I was only moving across the house; how hard could it be?
 
However, when I found myself stuck in the hallway attempting to lift my dresser with spaghetti arms, I regretted not asking for the help I knew I needed.
 
That moment I was reminded of Zechariah 4:6.
 
“…Not by strength or by might, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord of Armies.” – Zechariah 4:6 (CSB)
 
In this Scripture, Zerubbabel, Judea’s governor, was tasked with rebuilding the temple. God reminded him the strength to succeed didn’t come from his own might or power, but only by the Lord’s Spirit.
 
No amount of strength, wealth or skill would make up for it. They would only be able to succeed by depending on the Holy Spirit. It’s the same way for us.
 
Whether it’s moving dressers or raising a family, it is only by his Spirit we can succeed. It’s difficult to admit, but we can literally do nothing on our own. Only Jesus gives us the ability!
 
“I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without me.” – John 15:4-5
 
Our success requires a continual reliance on the Holy Spirit and a relationship with the Lord. Where our flesh and own strength fail, his spirit sustains us.

Written by Lexi Pate, marketing intern for Buckner International.