I love learning about God’s paradoxical economy in comparison with the cultural economy in which I live. He often flips my understanding upside down with His wise ways.
To me, it makes sense to work longer hours for maximum results; yet He reveals wisdom in rhythms of work and rest. I naively strive to earn blessings; He teaches me about grace. I want a shortcut to instant success; He values small beginnings.
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin.” Zechariah 4:10a (NLT)
If I’m taking the time to write, I desire for it to be transformational to a reader. I want a book deal or at least some appreciation and affirmation for my efforts. I don’t want a small beginning . . .
So I guess I have some maturing to do!
Because if God does not despise these small beginnings and I want to grow more like my Heavenly Father, then I suppose I need to learn how to simply rejoice in seeing the work begin, regardless of the outcome.
Over and over again, I surrender all.
I fought sitting down to write for months. It’s embarrassing when I reflect back to how clearly God was communicating this is the assignment He has called me to in this season.
It irritates me when I battle thoughts such as “maybe I’m inadequate for this” or “what if people misunderstand me and think I’m being preachy?” and especially “I would prefer to hide behind questions rather than risk sharing my opinions and open myself up to receive hurtful criticism.”
In response to all those thoughts, God said the same thing in different ways over the past few months. His message remained the same:
“Start writing.”
Can you relate? Is there a theme God is revealing in your life right now? Is there something He wants to begin in you or with you?Is He asking you to trust Him and resist screens a little more in order to experience deeper levels of joy and connection in the present? Is He suggesting you prioritize sleep a little higher? Work a little less? A little more?
Because He gifted us with His Holy Spirit, His messages and means of communicating are endless (see John 14:26). So I would love to hear . . .
What is He communicating to you currently? How is He revealing Himself to you? What do you sense He is trying to teach you as you read His words in the Bible?
It doesn’t have to be grand! All the details in your life matter deeply to Him and remember:
He rejoices to see the work begin!
Thank you, God, for being such a doting and loving Father! Thank you for giving us your Word, for giving us access to Your Holy Spirit and for giving us Your Son, Jesus. We know He is the only way we have access to You. I thank You for every precious soul reading this right now. May You give each of us discernment to recognize Your voice and courage to act on all we learn from You. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.
And for you, my friend, I pray you begin.
Love to you,
Laura
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