Just Start

“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand.”

Zechariah 4:10 NLT

“And though your beginning was small, your latter days will be very great.”

Job 8:7 ESV

How many of us are are waiting for the perfect time to start doing what we have been nagging ourselves to do? Or maybe we have a dream we want to pursue but keep putting it off until the “right time”.

We’ve all heard the sayings, “An object in motion stays in motion” and “The journey of a thousand steps starts with one”. We have to “get the ball rolling”. In other words, we just have to start.

Whether we’ve planned and prepared or we’re not sure where to start, Psalm 37:5 reminds us to “Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him, and He will do it.” We can rely on Him to show us the first step and guide us along the path. We don’t need to figure it all out before beginning.

We might say, “What if we fail?” Wouldn’t it be worse to live out our lives without trying?

Life isn’t easy and our future days aren’t promised. But we are here now. This is the time we have. Let’s start something. Small steps forward will move us closer than standing still and waiting for everything to be perfect.

What is weighing on you? Is it a health goal? A decluttering goal? The health issues and clutter will remain and may even grow if they are not addressed. Whatever it is, the Lord will be there to guide you.

You don’t have to know exactly where you’re going or how you will get there. But you can establish a short list of minimum goals to start now.

For a health goal:
Call the doctor to discuss the issue.
Drink an extra glass of water.
Do 10 minutes of walking or stretching.
Eat one meal or snack with foods the closest to how God made them.

For a decluttering goal:
Gather the boxes and bags.
Spend 15 minutes in the easiest area eliminating trash and removing items you no longer need or want.
Stick the items to donate in your trunk to drop off on your next trip.

There’s no right or wrong. Only progress. Start small and embrace the process. The Lord is with you and I am praying for you. Just start and see how far you can go!

PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank You for each new day we are given. Thank You for Your love and presence in our lives. You know we all have areas where we are putting off doing the work we know we need to do. We long to do our best and honor You, but at times we hesitate to move. Please help us to start and to take each step with You. Guide us in these areas as You have guided us so many times before. In Christ’s name, Amen.

Journal: In what area are you ready to start? Write your list of minimum goals here. Share this with the Lord and take the first step.