YOU WILL COMPLETE IT!

[Pastor Bayo Afolaranmi]

Dearly Beloved,

YOU WILL COMPLETE IT!

"Then the word of the LORD came to me: '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'" (Zechariah 4:8-9 NIV).

The people of Israel were returning from the exile. They were picking up the crumbs of their nationhood under the leadership of Zerubbabel. One of such crumbs was the rebuilding of the temple of God in Jerusalem. However, they faced strong oppositions from the neighboring nations that did not want them to re-establish their nation (see Ezra 4). It was during one of those oppositions that the word of God came to Prophet Zechariah to assure Zerubbabel that he would be the one that will definitely complete the building project.

Zechariah Chapter Four is full of prophecies in regards to the procedure of the completion of the rebuilding of the temple: firstly, it is neither by human might nor power, but by the Spirit of God (verse 6). It means that the success of the project would be by the Lord's doing, not by man's making. Secondly, all the mighty oppositions against the project will come to nothing (verse 7). This is exactly what happened when King Darius issued a decree to thwart all the oppositions (see Ezra 6:1-12). Thirdly, the very person that laid the foundation of the rebuilding of the temple will be the one that will complete it (verse 9). This promise actually came to pass (see Ezra 6:13-18). The last but not the least of the procedure is the fact that they should not despise the day of small things (verse 10a). That is, they should not look down on the little resources they had, and especially, the time they started the project with no hope. This may also mean that they should not underrate their small or slow progress at the work. They should not allow the contempt of others to discourage them (cf. 1 Timothy 4:12). The resultant effect is that people will rejoice at the completion of the project (verse 10b).

What project have you started? Is it academic pursuit, building project, business project, or even a ministry? Are you facing oppositions or having difficulties in completing it? Do people despise you for your seemingly failure or slowness to its completion? Your hands that started the project will execute it to a successful completion in Jesus’ name. Follow also that procedure given to Zerubbabel. Do not rely on your own understanding, strength or resources. Rely on God. His grace is sufficient for you. He will silence all the oppositions that may arise against, or are facing you. All difficulties in your way shall vanish, and all the objections be got over. Believe that you that started the project will complete it. And do not despise your days of your humble beginning. Do not look down on yourself. Disregard people's contempt. Remember, "...He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:6 NIV). You will complete the project! People will rejoice with you!

In His service,

Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).