God does not despise small beginnings, and neither should we.
“For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth.”Zechariah 4:10 (KJV)
What does “Small things” mean in Zechariah 4:10?
The prophet speaks to people who were disappointed by how modest their new temple looked compared to the old one. The question who hath despised the day of small things is a gentle rebuke to those who looked down on small beginnings.
Going deeper
The returned exiles had begun rebuilding the temple, but it looked poor beside the grand temple that Solomon had built. Some were discouraged and even scornful. God's word through Zechariah is a rebuke and an encouragement: who hath despised the day of small things? He reminds them that small beginnings are not failures. The work was His, and He would see it through, just as He had promised.
Many of us feel discouraged by how small our efforts seem: a small prayer group, a small savings, a small step of change. This verse says that God sees value in the modest. Do not wait for something impressive before you begin. Start the habit, write the first page, make the first call. Small faithfulness, repeated, grows into something significant. Take one small step today toward something God has put on your heart, and trust Him with the growth. God is patient with beginnings.
Reflect
What small beginning could you take today toward something God has put on your heart?
Pray
Lord, thank You that You do not despise small things. Help me to be faithful in little, and to trust You with the growth. In Jesus' name, amen.
Get the Daily Word by email
One short study, a verse, and a prayer in your inbox each morning. Free, for anyone, anywhere.
By subscribing you agree to receive one email a day from Light of Christ Christian Church. You can unsubscribe at any time with one click.