Do Not Despise the Day of Small Things #1

Sermon Title: "Do Not Despise the Day of Small Things"

Key Verse: Zechariah 4:10 (KJV) "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."

Introduction

In this verse, the prophet Zechariah encourages the people of Judah who had returned from Babylonian exile and faced the daunting task of rebuilding the temple. The foundation seemed modest compared to Solomon's grand temple, leading to discouragement among the people. However, God reminded them through Zechariah that small beginnings should not be underestimated because they are often the foundation of greater things in God’s plan.

Today, we will explore why we should not despise small beginnings and how God uses them to accomplish His purposes.

1. Small Beginnings Are Part of God’s Plan

Illustration: A farmer doesn’t despise a small seed because he knows it contains the potential for a great harvest. Similarly, God often begins His work in ways that seem insignificant to human eyes.

Supporting Scripture:

Matthew 13:31-32 — "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed... though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants."

1 Corinthians 1:27 — "But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty."

Application: What small thing has God placed in your hands today? Don’t dismiss it. That small act of faith, a humble prayer, or a simple step of obedience could be the start of something extraordinary.

2. God Sees the Bigger Picture

The verse speaks of “the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth.” This means that God is fully aware of every detail and orchestrates events according to His purposes.

Illustration: Consider the story of David. When Samuel anointed him, he was just a shepherd boy. But God saw a king in him.

Supporting Scripture:

Isaiah 46:10 — "Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done." Jeremiah 29:11 — "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end."

Application: Trust that God’s vision for your life goes beyond your current situation. Though you may feel unnoticed or your work seems insignificant, God sees its eternal value.

3. Rejoice in the Work of God

The text reminds us that the people will rejoice when they see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand. The plumb line signifies the beginning of construction, a symbol of progress, even if small.

Illustration: The Brooklyn Bridge began with the vision of one man, John Roebling, who laid down the foundational plans despite being told it was impossible. Years later, the completed bridge stands as a testament to perseverance through small steps.

Supporting Scripture:

Philippians 1:6 — "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ."

Psalm 126:5-6 — "They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing."

Application: Rejoice in the progress, no matter how small. Celebrate the faithfulness of God in every step of your journey.

4. Faithfulness in Small Things Leads to Greater Things

Illustration: In the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), the servants who were faithful with small amounts were entrusted with more. God rewards faithfulness, even in what seems insignificant.

Supporting Scripture:

Luke 16:10 — "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much."

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

Application: Whatever God has given you—no matter how small—be diligent with it. Your faithfulness could be the key to unlocking greater blessings and responsibilities.

Conclusion

Do not despise small beginnings because God’s work often starts in ways that challenge our perception of success. From the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand to the seemingly insignificant mustard seed, God takes what is small and makes it great.

Call to Action:

Reflect on what small tasks, opportunities, or resources God has placed in your life. Recommit to being faithful, trusting that God sees and values your work. Rejoice in the progress, knowing that the eyes of the Lord are upon you.

Closing Scripture:

Galatians 6:9 — "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not."

May we embrace the “day of small things,” knowing that God uses humble beginnings to accomplish His grand purposes. Let us rejoice and press forward in faith!