SERMON SUMMARY
Do not despise small beginnings. God is working even when growth is not visible. God can use little things to accomplish great purposes.
First three key-point headings transcribed from the supplied sermon poster.
“Pray. Trust. Be patient. Stay faithful in what God has given you. Every great journey has a beginning.”
Key points
- Do not despise small beginnings (Zechariah 4:10) — A small beginning is not insignificant. God does not measure our beginnings in the same way people do. Small beginnings can appear in education, work, business, marriage, ministry and personal development. Never underestimate what God can accomplish through a small beginning.
- God is working even when growth is not visible — The Chinese bamboo tree illustrates patience and unseen preparation. Not everything God is doing will be immediately visible. A season of waiting can be a time of preparation. Continue praying, working and trusting God even when progress seems slow. What appears to be a delay may be a season of preparation.
- God can use little things to accomplish great purposes (Matthew 14:17–21; Matthew 28:19–20) — Jesus fed the five thousand with five loaves and two fish. God can multiply what we make available to Him. The disciples were a small group, yet God used them to reach the world. Do not underestimate your talents, resources or experience. The greatness of God’s purpose is not determined by the size of our beginning.
- The end of a matter is better than its beginning (Ecclesiastes 7:8; Ecclesiastes 3:11) — Do not judge a journey only by how it begins. A difficult beginning does not mean an unsuccessful ending. Be patient and allow God to complete what He has begun. God makes everything beautiful in its time. Do not let present challenges determine your expectations for the future.
- God has greater plans for Eden Hill — Eden Hill began with a small congregation and has continued to grow. Our current circumstances do not define our future. Physical limitations or temporary difficulties do not mean God has left us. God has been faithful to other congregations (Chorlton and Piccadilly) and can continue His work at Eden Hill. Remain united, prayerful and committed to the church’s growth.
- What should we do while waiting for God’s promises? — Pray continually: stay connected to God. Trust in God: believe He is still working. Exercise patience: His timing may differ from our expectations. Remain faithful in small responsibilities: be committed now. Continue working and growing: keep serving, preparing and developing.
