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January 26, 2010
Don't Despise the Small Things
God uses it all! |
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Greetings!
By the time some of you read this I will be in flight to Africa. Today is the beginning of something the Lord destined long ago. It is a day of great joy in my heart as I walk down the path only God could pave.
Let me tell you the story ... In 1998-1999, I was in a season of major transition. During that time, I knew I needed to hear from God. Basically, I was sick of Randy's next good idea and desired God's great ideas! As a result, I went on an extended fast to obtain clarity on future ministry plans and God's will for my life and ministry. It was a small step that had large ripples.
During that fast, God poured forth His vision for Covenant and foster care ministries at Canyon Hills Assembly of God. After discussions with Pastor Wendell, other Christian leaders, and much prayer, we launched out with small beginnings and a large vision to reach children and families with God's love.
One part of the vision God shared was an actual movie like vision. In the vision, I was playing with smiling African children in a remote village. In the coming days I will play with African children! Friend, God is faithful! He will complete the good work He began in you ... seek Him for your part! |
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Not in Our Power ... His!
6 So he said to me, "This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty. 7 "What are you, O mighty mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become level ground. Then he will bring out the capstone to shouts of 'God bless it! God bless it!' " 8 Then the word of the LORD came to me: 9 "The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this temple; his hands will also complete it. Then you will know that the LORD Almighty has sent me to you. 10 "Who despises the day of small things? Men will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel." These seven are the eyes of the LORD, which range throughout the earth.
~ Zechariah 4:6-10 ~ |
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Don't despise your small beginning!
The back story to the scripture reading for today is one of fatigue and uncertainty. Zerubbabel was feeling the brunt of the work of God and questioning the plan. God's word came ..."Don't despise the day of small beginnings!" God encouraged Zerubbabel to simple start and do his part and God would do the rest. That is a word for us today as well. You may not know exactly what God is doing but I can guarantee you He is moving Heaven and fighting Hell for your benefit. We must simply heed the Word to God's people ... "Don't despise small beginnings!"
The initial word of encouragement to Zerubbabel was one of provision and execution. God was letting Zerubbabel know that is isn't by human ability, might or power that anything is accomplished in the Kingdom. No, it is God's will and His Spirit that succeeds! This was, and is, God's plan for execution - the supply of Heaven's resources to accomplish His kingdom plan and purpose. Once we recognize this incredible truth the pressure on us if off. We are now co-laborers and God assists us in our endeavors to act out His plan through the correction and direction of His Spirit. How encouraging!
So, why are we in Africa. We are in Africa because God had it in His heart to send us there. I will be travelling to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania to establish Covenant Foster Care - Tanzania. We will replicate our services here and fulfill a mission mandate at Covenant of ministering in "Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and the ends of the earth" or "Bakersfield, California, the Nation and internationally" (Acts 1:8).
In 1998, God gave the vision. In 2007, I went to what felt like home and played soccer in a village with smiling African children. In 2010, orphaned children will live with God's people and James 1:27 will be fulfilled in Tanzania through the local church. Who knew? God knew! Don't despise the day of small beginnings!
Friend, what seemingly small beginning is God using to shape your life today? Don't despise it. Remember, it is God's will to lead and shepherd you for His perfect plan. Lastly, know that as He accomplishes the plan that it is not by our might or power but by His Spirit that it worked! To God be the glory! Be encouraged.
I'll keep you posted... Please pray!
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For King and Kingdom,
Randy Martin |
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