Start Small, Part II

Start Small

Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand (Zechariah 4:10, NLT).

I recently took an extra day off work so that I could spend some time “working ahead” on all things related to my blog, book, and other business related items. One of the most important things I’ve learned to do is to be intentional about creating space for the Lord to work in and through me by using the gifts and talents He has given me.

Some people are extremely organized, with a detailed checklist, and typically follow it very closely. Though I do like having a vague outline of what I’d like to get accomplished for the day, I am not one of those people. Creating space is critical, but I also know it’s important for me to be in a headspace where I can be productive. This looks a whole lot like planning ahead, and getting good rest so that I can have a clear mind with an open heart to work on whatever the Lord puts on my path that day.

I’ve gotten pretty routine oriented with my days off from work as a physical therapist, which has helped tremendously. I have my “spot” to work, and I always set an alarm to get myself up and going just as I would for a day in the clinic. Even still, it can be hard at times. That’s when I remind myself to start small, and leave space for the Holy Spirit to guide the time I have set aside, He always does. 

Sometimes the weather is gloomy, and we feel lazy.

Sometimes we feel overwhelmed, and we don’t know where to start.

Sometimes we’re exhausted, and we just need to rest a little before trying to begin.

Sometimes it’s just hard to find the motivation to get moving.

Being in that space can be difficult–we know we need to get up, and do something productive. Spend time with the Lord, pray, worship, or be physically active. But isn’t it precisely when we know we need those things that it’s the hardest to get started?

When we need to work out, we struggle to get motivated. When we’re trying to lose weight, we crave sugar. When we need to pray, we can’t find the words. When we need to worship, we have trouble finding our voice. It is then that we must remember to start small, and leave space for the Holy Spirit.

If it’s a gloomy morning and I’m feeling lazy, my alarm helps me stay disciplined.

If I’m feeling overwhelmed, a priority list to help get me jump started for the day.

If I’m feeling exhausted, sometimes I hit the snooze button to get the rest I need.

I’m not sure what you’re facing right now that just feels too big to overcome. Maybe you’re feeling stuck. You're in constant pain. You lost your job. You're struggling to lose weight so that you can have the surgery you need. You or someone you love is dealing with a medical crisis. Or maybe you’re just in a funk that you can't seem to shake. 

Zechariah 4:10 tells us: Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand. 

Emotions can feel overwhelming, and the burden heavy. Sometimes starting small feels like too much. Create a routine. Try to be consistent. And remember to give yourself grace for the days when you just can’t seem to get started. There’s space for grace just as much as there’s space for productivity.

Whatever you’re facing right now, start small. Give yourself grace when needed, but be reminded that Jesus can and will take something small and do with it far more than we could ever hope for or imagine.