Zechariah 4:10 For who has despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice… This has ever been a watchword among Christians; small beginnings are not to be despised. Apply — I. TO THE INSTITUTIONS OF RELIGION. Four reasons why we should not despise the day of small things. 1. Because often the mightiest effects are produced from them, as in the world of nature; in the world of literature; in the world of politics. So in grace. What is it and what will it he? Yet what was its origin? 2. Because God's vower can make the feeblest mighty for the accomplishment of His work. 3. We never know what God intends to do by our understanding. Prescience is not ours. Not having it, we cannot see what God will do. 4. In matters of religion, what is comparatively little is abstractedly great. Then if you want to do much for God, do not generalise so much. Do not be discouraged by seeing how many are unsaved, look at the one saved. II. TO PERSONAL AND PRIVATE RELIGION. Religion is often small in its commencement — sometimes rapid, sudden conviction, but ordinarily more slow. This day of small things may be despised by scorn; by opposition; by neglect. First impressions are sacred; treat them as such. The day of small things is not despised by those who best know its value; the Father of Mercies; the Son; Angels; or Satan. It is the pledge of greater days that are coming. Apply to ministers; parents; Sabbath school teachers; the lately awakened. (J. Summefield, A. M.) Parallel Verses KJV: For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth. |
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