How to be Strengthened

O. T. #2311 "How to be Strengthened"

Oct. 31, 2022

Zechariah 10-Part 4

And I will strengthen them in the LORD, and they shall walk up and down in His name, saith the Lord. (verse 12)

LET IT GLOW

There are days that I need strength carry on, prevail over depression, be an overcomer of temptation to be self-centered, get out of the pit of self-pity, quit dragging my lip on the ground, and get up and get going. I imagine some of you are like me some days. How do we get out of those places? Where do we find strength to carry on? When we turn to Jesus for our strength we can go on.

The sixth blessing to be brought by the Messiah is national redemption. This will be a realization of the New Covenant. (Jeremiah 31:31-34) He will put His law in their hearts and will be their God, and they shall be His people. Believers are one of His people. Are you one?

The LORD of Hosts is speaking. He is the One who will do regathering, redeeming, and strengthening Israel in the LORD (Messiah Jesus). 

In verse 12, strengthen (in Hebrew) means be strong; prevail, be stronger; be valiant; exceed; confirm.

Strength is treasured up for us in Christ, and from Him it is communicated to us. It is through Christ strengthening in us that we can do all things, and without him we can do nothing. (Philippians 4:13) His strength is for this purpose. (Natthew Henry)

Strengtheneth means enable (increase in) strength; to empower; make strong. 

Psalm 68:28, NAS says, Your God has commanded your strength: Show Thyself strong, O God, who hast acted on our behalf.

Did you catch that-our strength comes from God and He acts on our behalf. Sometimes we need physical strength to carry on our daily tasks. Other times we need emotional and spiritual strength, reassured love. We need to know we are not in this alone. When it is almost gone, Jesus is there to cheer us on, lift us up, change our focus on Him, overcome evil with good.

LET IT GROW

What good use will Israel make of God's strength? They will be messengers of their Messiah in the millennial kingdom. Are we walking up and down, in all the duties of the Christian life, active and busy in kingdom work? Are we industrious, losing no time, letting no opportunity slip by us to witness for Jesus?

Christians are to walk up and down as messengers of Christ, depending on Him and His guidance, keeping our heart in His Word so it rules our life and give Him glory.

Colossians reminds us that in whatever we do, in word or deed, we must do all in the name of the Lord Jesus. I need reminding of that often.

LET IT GO 

Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me.

It is well with my soul, for Jesus You provided it.

We need Your strength today, Lord. Please bless all who read this with Your salvation, your strength, Your love.