Daily Devotional

For who has despised the day of small things?
For these seven rejoice to see
The plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel.
Zechariah 4:10a (NKJV)

Every marathon runner, before running, had to learn how to take the first step. Small beginnings may seem too simple or even embarrassing to some at first. But it is a fact that many people who achieve success in life have very modest and even uncomfortable beginnings. In today’s verse, we see encouragement from the Lord to the prophet Zechariah, to strengthen those returning from exile as they rebuilt the temple. Another translation says: “Do not despise small beginnings.”

Another good example in the Bible is David, the king who started out as a simple shepherd boy. In that first occupation, he did his best, with gratitude and praise to the Lord. For this reason, God, who sees the heart honored him by entrusting him with an even greater flock: the great nation of Israel. And you? Do you have a challenging task, like the rebuilding of the temple? Do you feel small and forgotten in the pasture, smelling of sheep? Do not despise humble beginnings… Take heart! Keep your faith and confidence in the One who can reward your effort, turning simple things into something very special!

Make an effort in the small things:

• Pray and thank the Lord for your situation today, even if it is modest and humble.
• Seize the opportunity to be faithful in little. God promises much more (Matt. 25:23).
• Do your best work and dedicate yourself even if you are not seen by people.
• Do not be ashamed of small tasks. They may be valuable preparation for something greater that is coming!
• God is with you! Seek to know Him more each day through His Word.
• Seek to glorify God in the small things.

Prayer:

¹ Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers,
² but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.
- Psalm 1:1-2

A Christian's lifestyle must hold the Word of God in high esteem, above anything else. This is because our greatest joy and satisfaction must be in God. A fundamental step we should all take, as seen in this Psalm, is to constantly meditate on the Holy Bible.

The regular practice of meditating on the bible enables us to delve deeper into God's Word, understand its principles, and apply them to our daily lives. Meditation, combined with prayer and Bible studies, also helps us discern God's will, find guidance in times of doubt, as well as strengthening our faith.

In addition, meditating on the Bible connects us spiritually with the Lord, strengthens our relationship with Him and enables us to live according to His teachings. It is a spiritual discipline that nourishes our souls and helps us grow in wisdom and faith. Seek to know God more, reflect more deeply on His teachings and how you can apply them in your life.

Meditating day by day

• Biblical meditation should go hand in hand with prayer and Bible study.
• Disconnect from distractions and dedicate some time in your day to being alone with God. If we want to have a personal experience with God, we need to spend time learning, reflecting and meditating on His Word.
• Pray, and focus on the teachings of God.
• Praise God for His Word and for the joy of discovering it day by day.
• Seeking to know God in depth leads us to think about Him, to desire to know more about Him, and to dedicate time to being together and connected to Him.

Pray: