Good Morning Everyone,
Our theme for this month: “Confidence”
Our Bible verse for today: “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” Zechariah 4:10 (NLT)
Our thought for today: “Just get started and then have confidence in the Lord.”
Zechariah was an Old Testament prophet who was part of the group who returned to Jerusalem after King Cyrus of Persia granted the Jews permission to rebuild the city and the temple. He was a priest and a leader among the people. He was also one of those responsible for supervising the building of the second temple which came to be known as Zerubbabel’s Temple.
If you’re familiar with the story then you know that the Jews were faced with a monumental and extremely difficult task. The city and the temple were in ruins, they were surrounded by enemies who did not want them to succeed, and the Jews were small in number. But the Lord told them to simply start the work, be faithful in it, and trust Him to help them complete it. They were to have confidence in Him, not in themselves or in their circumstances, and also not in their resources.
Their story is our story. We too are often faced with seemingly impossible challenges. But just like the Israelites in the days of Zechariah, we too must have confidence in the Lord. This morning I want to offer you four great Bible verses which I hope you will find encouraging as you faithfully push forward in dealing with the challenges you face:
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” Zechariah 4:10 (NLT)
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT)
“It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty.” Zechariah 4:6 (NLT)
“I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6 (HCSB)
God Bless,
Pastor Jim
Oak Hill Baptist Church 