“So he answered and said to me: ‘This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ Says the Lord of hosts.” Zechariah 4:6 NKJV
The name Zerubbabel means ‘planted in Babylon’. This implies being rooted, ingrained in Babylon and yet standing out for God. In this sense, Babylon represents an evil system that is in opposition to the Kingdom of God.
As believers, God hasn’t called us to isolate ourselves from the world but rather to be planted in the secular areas of the world. The anointing is on us to make an impact in our day, we have not been designed to dim our light in this dark world (Matthew 5:16).
We have to be audacious about what we stand for and who we live for. In doing this, we must be bold to influence others by strategically penetrating into the world system, but we cannot afford to lose our convictions while at it.
You can take roots in the secular world and still keep your convictions strong by constantly relying on the Spirit of God. He not only gives you strategies to influence the world for the sake of the Gospel but can also give you instructions to keep your consecration. If He tells you to fast or take some time off to pray or be weary of a particular partnership, listen.
To cultivate an unshakeable reliance on the Spirit of God, you would need a consistent and thriving devotional life. In prayer, you commune with God and receive instructions from Him. In Bible study, you are reminded of who you are in Christ embracing His word and keeping your heart stayed on God.
Furthermore, if you are going to be in Babylon but not be influenced by it, you must have a strong circle of godly influence. Your close friends must have the same convictions in God as you do. It is important that you are committed to a local church that keeps you accountable and submitted to a good Bible teacher. This will help keep you grounded in the midst of Babylon. Have people around you who would always turn your heart to God.
The body of Christ is formidable force. There is great power that lies in our numbers and we are backed by the Holy Spirit. We have the capability to influence the world for Jesus.
Dear believer, it is time to take action. You can have influence in the secular world and not lose your light. You must spread our light in this dark world. No more mediocrity, see yourself as Zerubbabel it is time to take charge!
Bible Reading Plan: Zephaniah 1-3