The Endurance Flower: From unflagging duty to inner commitment

Oak

Overworked, Obstinate, struggles on

Strain

Exhaustion, grim persistence, frustration

For those who are struggling and fighting strongly to get well, or in connection with the affairs of their daily life. They would go on trying one thing after another, though their cause may seem hopeless. They will fight on. They are discontented with themselves if illness interferes with their duties or helping others.

Reflection

Oak reflects driven endurance. A person keeps going long after strength is gone, and rest feels like failure. The word of the Lord to Zerubbabel was that the work would be finished by the Spirit, not by might and not by power. Faithful effort remains good. It turns harsh when the person becomes the source of the strength. There is a holy time to stop.

Scripture

Zechariah 4:6 (KJV). "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts."

Meditation

Lord, I lay down the need to push through in my own strength. Work by Your Spirit. Teach me when to labor and when to rest.