Beginnings to Celebrate

“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” Zechariah 4:10 NLT

As someone who likes to see things get done quickly, I’m not always the most patient person. And I have to admit; I don’t always appreciate the start of something, no matter how great it turns out in the end. Sometimes, when I set out to reach a goal, I forget that the journey and the steps it takes to get there are just as important, and that beginnings truly are worth celebrating. Like watching my kids reach milestones as they’ve gotten older…

When my son and daughter started walking, I didn’t wait until they could make it from one end of the room to the other to get excited. I cheered them on from the very first step, and it didn’t matter if they fell or how far they made it. When they learned how to ride a bike, all it took was one or two pedals on their own for me to start jumping up and down and clapping. And when I hear them say their bed-time prayers at night, I’m filled with thankfulness and joy at the beginnings of their faith.

That’s how God is with us too. He is happy to see the work begin. From the very first second we turn to Him, He rejoices. He doesn’t wait until we become “better people” or “more holy.” And when He sees us moving in the direction of His plan for our lives, He cheers us on.

Remembering that helps me to be more patient. Instead of being hard on myself or others because the results I see aren’t what I ultimately hope for, I want to rejoice about moving in the right direction. I want to remember that good things are worth waiting for and beginnings are important.

So whether you’re striving to improve relationships, make positive changes in your lifestyle or health, or realize a career or personal goal, pause and take a moment to rejoice in your beginnings and to celebrate the start of something good. 🙂