Zerubbabel was given a difficult task. He was to supervise the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. There was great opposition coupled with danger, disappointment and discouragement. It is in the midst of this God gives him a note of encouragement. When we face difficulties, problems or great tasks here is how God would reassure us as well. Zerubbabel was encouraged to

God can make mountains disappear. That mountain of pain or problems or helplessness becomes a plain when we turn it over to God. Note it is because of His grace. We don’t deserve His blessings and we cannot earn them, but He freely gives grace to help in time of need to all who call on Him. When we look at circumstances, we’re looking at mountains. When we look to God, we’re looking at solutions. Mat 17:20 says, “If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.” Faith is trust in the power of God. Trust in our plans or programs, philosophy or other people is not enough. We need to go directly to the One who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we could ask or think. Along with these

What God begins God completes. (Phil 1:6) He will complete His will through us as we keep our eyes on His promises. God promised Zerubbabel would complete the building of the Temple in spite of the difficult circumstances. He promises you and me that when we are doing His work. He will work in us that which is well pleasing in His sight. It is important to be careful of substituting our will for Gods, but when we know we are in His will, we are certain of His promises. (2 Cor 1:20) “For all the promises of God in Him (that is Christ) are yea, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.” God can and will work His promises through us. Let Him work in you today. Then finally,

The Temple that Zerubbabel was building was small compared to the Temple that preceded it, yet notice in the eyes of God there was divine rejoicing. The eyes of the LORD were on the work. He delighted to see it progress. God’s purpose was to establish His people in the land He gave them and renew a relationship and fellowship with them. God takes great delight in those who are involved in His work today as well. Although Satan may hinder and the world may despise and our own flesh rebel let’s continue to seek God’s purpose for our lives and seek His delight.

She was a teenager, out for a swim on a hot summer afternoon. Her friends were with her and they were having a great time. A dive from a raft into shallow water where she struck her head on the surface below and broke her neck. She became a quadriplegic. For the rest of her life she would be in a wheelchair. But Joni Earickson Tada was a believer and in spite of these difficult circumstances God started working in her life to His honor and glory. Now many years later she can look back on a fruitful worldwide ministry. Joni continues singing, writing, painting and encouraging others. Why? because her eyes are on God’s person and power, His promises and purposes. Let Him work in your life as well. God bless.