A small remnant of Jewish exiles had returned to their homeland after decades of Babylonian captivity. God instructs them to rebuild their temple and their nation. But they become discouraged because of hostilities from their enemies and the realization that the rebuilt temple will not be as great as the previous one, built by King Solomon. The Lord speaks the above words to His weary servants to give them hope and encouragement so that they will continue their God-given task. He tells them that even though it seems like a small beginning, He rejoices in seeing them set to work.

Sometimes, God assigns us small tasks which can seem insignificant to us. But in God's sight, there are no unimportant tasks in His kingdom. Sometimes the Lord expects us to prove our faithfulness in little matters before He gives us larger assignments. In Matthew 25:24, Jesus says, "You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things." The Lord is teaching us here that if we will be faithful in the duties He assigns us, promotion will be our reward. At times, we can become tempted to promote ourselves, but God's Word makes it clear that job belongs to the Lord. "For promotion and power come from nowhere on earth, but only from God. He promotes one and deposes another." (Psalm 75:6-7 TLB) Perhaps God has given you work to do, and you feel as though it has little value or that it's having little impact. Maybe you're receiving very little thanks or recognition. Or you're being met with more resistance than cooperation. Perhaps a previous task the Lord had given you was more appealing than the one you're involved with now. But God doesn't take pleasure in our work for Him only if it's big and important. He rejoices when we do the job He's given us, no matter what the size or significance. If you'll faithfully do the work the Lord's called you to do right now, He will promote you when it will benefit you most. Take heart, for today God's promise to you is--"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time"! (1 Peter 5:6)

Prayer: Lord, forgive me when I feel dissatisfied with the work You've given me to do. Cause me to realize that there are no insignificant tasks in Your kingdom. When I'm tempted to try to promote myself instead of waiting on You, remind me that my efforts will be fruitless in the end. Help me to recognize the jobs You've committed to me, and to carry them out faithfully. Thank You that at the proper time, You will reward me with promotion!