“The Lord’s delays are not denials but opportunities for deeper trust and character building.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – October 31, 2025
For who has despised the day of small things? For these seven rejoice to see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel. They are the eyes of the Lord, which scan to and fro throughout the whole earth. Zechariah 4:10
Israel emerges from decades of exile, eager to rebuild God’s temple, but what you’re creating seems bleak compared to what once stood there. The older generation, who remember Solomon’s temple, likely shake their heads and complain about how things used to be so much better. Sound familiar? Maybe you’re starting a ministry that feels small, launching a business from your kitchen table, or taking small steps toward a healthier lifestyle. The comparison game begins right away—what you’re doing seems so minor compared to what others have accomplished.
That’s exactly where Zerubbabel found himself. The rebuilt temple was modest, nothing like the gold-covered glory of the original. People were discouraged, wondering if their efforts even mattered. God’s response through Zechariah hits right at the core: “Who has despised the day of small things?” In other words, who says small beginnings are worthless? The seven eyes of the Lord—symbolizing God’s perfect, all-seeing vision—are actually rejoicing to see Zerubbabel working with his plumb line, making sure each stone is set correctly. Excel at the details!
God sees what we can’t. He values faithfulness in small things because He knows where they lead. That modest temple? It would become the place where Jesus Himself would teach. Your small beginning today might be the foundation for something that impacts generations. Don’t let the comparison trap steal your joy in faithful progress. Your tentative first step toward sobriety, that awkward conversation with your teenager—these aren’t insignificant beginnings. They’re foundational moments. Every faithful choice creates momentum for what’s next. That rebuilt temple looked humble compared to Solomon’s grandeur, but it became the backdrop for the Messiah’s ministry. Your faithfulness today in seemingly small matters could be building the platform for kingdom impact you can’t yet imagine. A little progress, not perfection, matters.
How do you embrace small beginnings without getting discouraged? What ways can you stay focused on the Lord’s vision and trust Him to accomplish results in the right way, while bearing lasting fruit in God’s timing? Start by measuring your progress against yesterday, not others’ highlight reels. Keep a journal to document small wins—prayers answered, character growth, relationships strengthened. These become evidence of God’s faithfulness when moments of discouragement hit. Focus on obedience rather than outcomes; you control effort, God controls results. Surround yourself with people who celebrate incremental progress instead of demanding instant success. Remember that lasting fruit takes seasons to grow — apple trees don’t produce overnight. Set realistic milestones that recognize growth as a process. Most importantly, remind yourself regularly that the Lord’s timing is different from yours, and His delays are not denials but opportunities for deeper trust and character building. Embrace small beginnings by faith!
“He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much” (Luke 16:10).
Prayer
Lord, teach me to embrace the small things with gratitude and faith. Help me trust Your power in little beginnings, knowing You grow them into works of lasting glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Application
What is the next step of faithfulness in a small matter that the Lord is calling you to complete?
Related Reading
Job 8:7; Matthew 13:31-32; Mark 4:26-27; 1 Corinthians 1:27-28
Worship Resource
Leah Campbell: Small Things
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