Do not despise the day of small beginnings…Zechariah 4:10
I’ve always loved comparing different versions of the scripture. It’s like I’m trying to get just the right perspective by looking at the translations and commentaries. I want to squeeze as much information out as possible. I think that’s part of being a teacher at heart. It’s also my way of making sure I’m hearing everything Holy Spirit wants to speak or show me. Sometimes it’s like puzzle pieces coming together. Sometimes it’s like a mystery unfolding and other times it’s a downpour or download all at one time. But usually, I get lots of similar hints, words or breadcrumbs and it teaches me to patiently wait for the next piece. I anticipate and try to be alert or aware of what He is revealing. I find that in the waiting, He is also preparing me, teaching me through the whole searching process. I know He’s patient and I know I’m learning to be because the ‘process’ used to totally frustrate me. I was the girl screaming – “JUST TELL ME THE ANSWER” in counseling. But then I realized that DISCOVERY is a huge part of what He’s doing and using to complete work in me. It’s His way, His system of revealing, teaching, renewing, and healing. It’s the actual TRANSFORMATION- becoming more like Him process that is so valuable. He talks a lot about the transformation process in scripture.
I could just end this post by quoting – “Life IS Found In The Journey”
But today I am zeroed in on the beginning…. The small beginnings. Let’s look at some different versions of the same verse. And then we may see something bigger – or something specific and small. But most of all be open to let Holy Spirit speak and bring clarity or attention where He wants to.
Zech.4:10 VERSIONS to crunch:
GW 10 “Who despised the day when little things began to happen? They will be delighted when they see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand. (These seven eyes of the Lord roam over all the earth.)”
NIV 10 “Who dares despise the day of small things, since the seven eyes of the Lord that range throughout the earth will rejoice when they see the chosen capstone[a] in the hand of Zerubbabel?”
CJB 10 “For even someone who doesn’t think much of a day when such minor events take place will rejoice at seeing the plumbline in the hand of Zerubbabel. So these seven are the eyes of Adonai that range about over all the earth.”
NIRV 10“Do not look down on the small amount of work done on the temple so far. The seven eyes of the Lord look over the whole earth. They will see Zerubbabel holding the most important stone. They will be filled with joy when they see it.”
There are hundreds of versions to draw from. Can you think of other “small beginnings” in the bible?
I instantly think of the manger scene. I also think of the 5 loaves and 5 fishes story. I think of 12 disciples working to share the Good News that has changed the world.
I think of those disciples in the Upper Room waiting on a Holy Spirit outpouring before they launched out into other places, regions, and the world.
I kind of think small beginnings are near and dear to His heart. He loves small beginnings so why shouldn’t I?
Do you have questions about a small beginning in your life right now?
Holy Spirit is available for questions – no appointment necessary. Just start talking and then start listening.
Good News Coaching 