Today we’re sharing an excerpt from Jennifer Rothschild’s new study, Take Courage. Order your copy or see a free sample today at Lifeway.com/TakeCourage.
“Do not despise these small beginnings for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin” (Zech. 4:10a, NLT).
Judah’s enemies looked down on the temple building as if it were Tinkertoys® in the hands of toddlers—as if it were no big deal. Even some of the Jews themselves thought little of the rebuilt temple because compared to the former temple, it was scrawny. But Zechariah, echoing Haggai (Hag. 2:3) reminded them it was no “small thing” in God’s eyes.
Nothing is. No one is.
If you’ve ever felt small, like your mission, your age, or your work is just puny, let me tell you this—small things can have a big impact. Here’s what I mean. Let’s just take a small number and see if it can have a big impact . . .
Thirty-two isn’t a big number, is it?
- Thirty-two little chocolate chips are only about seventy calories but will give you immense pleasure. (At least that’s my personal testimony.)
- A thirty-two minute power nap may cost you about a half hour of productivity, but you will gain a new lease on your day.
- Thirty-two cents will hardly buy you anything. But if you save thirty-two cents every day for thirty-two years, you will have $3,737.60 in the bank!
- If you read thirty-two books over your lifetime, your brain will have processed more than one million words!
Thirty-two may be a small number, but it has big potential and big implications, doesn’t it?
The Jews may have felt like they put in big work for little result. They may have felt small and insignificant because of all the opposition. They may even have felt that their best effort came to mediocre results.
Perhaps you identify with how they felt. You may feel small, insignificant, thinking who you are or where you are is unimportant compared to the seemingly big significance of others’ lives and situations. But no one and nothing is really small and insignificant. The big impact of small things can be overlooked if we aren’t careful. In a few weeks, you’ll see exactly what this looks like in Haggai. You’ll learn that you build more than you see.
God does know your name. He doesn’t overlook you just because somebody has a bigger problem, a bigger project, or a bigger personality. No matter how big the world is and no matter how small you may feel, God has called you to take courage and finish the work He has called you to.
That means, sister girl, that no matter where you are right now—whether you’re in a transitional season full of uncertainty, feeling too small for your call, fighting opposition and feeling accused or discouraged, thinking you’re too young or too old, or working heartily but wearing out—oh, girl, I have a word for you: take courage, dear heart.
God has called you to be the you He created. What you may see as a small thing in your mission or your work is really part of God’s big plan. It was true for the Jews in Haggai’s day, and it is true for you today.
God is with you in all situations and seasons just like He was with the discouraged Jews. God equips whom He calls. He lovingly corrects our “Small Things Syndrome” with His truthful words. He gives us the wisdom to consider our ways and prioritize our days. So, when you feel discouraged, don’t give the enemy a chance to make it worse. Press into God’s Word. Let His voice be louder than the outside voice of opposition and that nagging inner voice that tries to convince you that you are too small for your call.
Want to learn more about Take Courage? Watch the short video below or view a free sample and teaching video clips at Lifeway.com/TakeCourage.
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I see this study started on June 30. I’m thinking that means the study is over?
Hi Marquita!
This is a new study by Jennifer Rothschild that just released. While we are not currently offering it as an online Bible study we encourage you to purchase the study and walk through it with a few friends or your small group this fall. You can find more information about the study here.
I am very interested in doing this study! Tell me more.
Hi Terri,
Take Courage, by Jennifer Rothschild, is a 7-session study on the Book of Haggai. This study will help you learn to walk confidently in your calling, stay motivated despite opposition, and courageously invest your life in God’s purposes, trusting Him for results you may never see in this lifetime.
Find out more by visiting LifeWay.com/TakeCourage
Do we know when this study will be offered through Lifeway’s Online Bible Study portal?
Hi Amanda!
We are always adding new studies to our online Bible study plan and we will keep this study in mind for the future. Be sure you’re signed up to receive our emails to be the first to know about new and upcoming online studies.
Sorry I did her Amazing Missing Pieces Study! Seeing her cutting the cloth I was concerned! Than the next Study different Author Gideon. I been in Isolation since March! Thankful for walks in an area not many people! A few distance 😷 friends. Getting braver now a few drive through and curbside.
My word for 2020 Courage! To tell a hard to believe Jesus and I our Life Journey! Starting my first memory age five. On 7-5-2020 turned 64. Everyone says I need to write a book. Plus it would make a great movie too! I would rather have someone write my story! My first time with Jennifer it was on line was The Gideon Study!Amazing!! Now excited looking forward to Take Courage!