Rejoicing in the "Small Things"

In Zechariah 4:10 the Lord encourages us to not despise the day of small things (or small beginnings). What often looks like something small or insignificant to us can actually bring great delight to the heart of God. Remember...He sees things from beginning to end. And we need to know that every destiny has a starting point.

I have seen people walk away from their dreams because when things got started they couldn't get past the feelings of insignificance. Ministries that have been laid aside, business ventures that never got off the ground, plans for the family that were never finished, and dreams that were never realized are often grounded in our unwillingness to see them through. If we cannot develop an attitude that keeps us from despising those beginning stages then we will rarely step into all that God has for us.

What I love about this verse from Zechariah is that it states that the Lord rejoiced to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel's hand. Why is that significant? It's significant because the work was beginning and our Lord will not relent in bringing His work to completion. Laying the foundation often seems like tedious work but if we can rejoice over it (as the Lord does) then we can see the end in sight.

The work of laying a foundation isn't easy, it isn't glorious, but it is necessary. Most people who endeavor to build a house rarely rejoice when the footers are poured or the foundation is completed. They seem to get really happy once the walls start going up or the house begins to take shape. What we often fail to realize is that without the proper foundation that house will fall to ruin. Please hear what I'm saying: If you are in the day of small beginnings know that you are laying the foundation for a great work. Whether you are starting a new ministry, going out in a new business adventure, or stepping into your dreams for your family, the Lord rejoices with you in these days.

Learn to find joy and contentment in the now. Recognize the fact that God is with you even in the foundation work. Commit yourself to seeing His hand in every facet of the work. The joy of the Lord will then become your strength to carry out every dream. This is especially true when you know that the calling or dream comes from the Lord. He will partner with you to see the completion. Rejoice over Paul's admonition to the Philippians, "And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns."

Every fulfilled dream has a humble beginning.
Every fulfilled destiny has a starting point.
Every fulfilled calling has a moment of inspiration.
The day of "small things" has the potential to become the days of greatness. Keep pressing toward the mark and (as I like to say) enjoy the journey!