My friend Catherine and I were in the midst of planning the annual Plaid Flannel Party when she paused mid-sentence and said to me, “You know we make such a good team? I’m a starter, and you’re a finisher!”
We cracked up, but it was true. Catherine has a gift for brainstorming creative ideas and giving them an energetic launch. I, on the other hand, often feel daunted by the beginning of something big and tend to be shy about pulling the trigger. But once things are in motion, I enjoy carrying the event out to completion.
As someone who can feel daunted by the beginning of things, I can relate to the Israelites who felt intimidated as they started the monumental task of rebuilding the Temple.
Perhaps you find yourself at a daunting starting point right now yourself, wondering how you’ll ever make it to the finish line. The wall is so big, the rocks are so heavy, the progress is so slow, and it’s tempting to give up. It would be easier, less risky, to just quit now. My message to you is the same one God gave to the Israelites all those years ago:
Do not despise these small beginnings.
—Zechariah 4:10
Maybe you have a toddler who is defying you at every turn. You’re trying to set firm boundaries, but it feels like you have to battle for every inch of progress.
Do not despise these small beginnings.
Maybe you’re trying to get out of debt, but the shovel is so small and the hole is so deep.
Do not despise these small beginnings.
Maybe you’re recovering from surgery, and healing seems like it’s light years away.
Do not despise these small beginnings.
Maybe you’ve been praying earnestly for someone you love, but so far you’ve seen only sporadic glimmers of hope.
Do not despise these small beginnings.
Maybe you’re trying to change something about yourself that is so deeply embedded you’re not sure change is even possible.
Do not despise these small beginnings.
Whatever daunting challenge you are facing today, may you know that God delights in your efforts, even those small beginnings. And I pray that along the way you will have friends who come beside you—a starter to encourage you to begin, and a finisher to help you end strong.
I’ve taken the challenge of reading the Bible chronologically this year and tracing the thread of grace through it. These musings are prompted by my reading. I’d love to have you join me: One Year Bible reading plan.
Stephanie Rische 