I've always been drawn to the small things. The first ray of sunlight breaking through morning clouds. The initial words written on a blank page.
These small beginnings often go unnoticed in a world that celebrates grand openings and instant results. We scroll through highlight reels of finished projects and final destinations, rarely glimpsing the starts that made them possible.
Zechariah 4:10 offers a different perspective: "Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin." These words were spoken to people rebuilding their temple, stone by stone, facing what must have felt like an overwhelming task. Looking at the small foundation compared to what needed to be built, discouragement would have been natural.
Yet God's message cuts straight to the heart of our impatience - He celebrates what we often dismiss. The first step. The tiny seed. The foundation stone. The initial effort.
I catch myself missing this truth in my own life. When change comes gradually, when progress feels microscopic, when today looks remarkably similar to yesterday - I grow restless. I want the finished cathedral, not the daily laying of bricks.
But what if the small beginnings aren't just necessary first steps? What if they're areas where God works in ways we can't yet see?
Think about it - faith itself usually starts small. A short prayer. A moment of unexpected peace. A question that leads to seeking. God doesn't dismiss these as insufficient. He rejoices to see the work begin.
The same applies to changes in our character. Patience isn't developed overnight. Kindness doesn't suddenly appear in full bloom. Courage doesn't arrive complete. They grow from small seeds - one choice, one moment, one small beginning at a time.
When we look at Scripture, we see this pattern everywhere. Twelve ordinary men became the foundation of the church. Five loaves and two fish fed thousands. A mustard seed represents the kingdom. God consistently chooses the small to accomplish the significant.
So what small beginning might God be working with in your life right now? That nudge toward forgiveness you've been resisting? The gift you've been hesitant to share? The relationship that's just beginning to heal?
Whatever it is, try seeing it through God's eyes. Where you might see insignificance, He sees potential. Where you see incompleteness, He rejoices over beginnings.
The beauty of small beginnings is that they remind us who truly does the growing. We plant and water, but God brings the increase. We take the first step, but He guides the entire path. We begin, but He completes.
Today, instead of waiting for something spectacular before giving thanks, look for the small beginnings God has already placed in your life. Notice them. Appreciate them. And most importantly, refuse to despise them.
For in the kingdom of God, small beginnings aren't just allowed - they're the way God has always worked. Not because He can't do big things, but because He wants us to trust Him with the small ones first.