Dr. Tan Tek Seng

DAILY REFLECTION  
25 June 2026

"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

Last night marked an important milestone with the official launch of the TOS Alumni Association. Although only a small number of alumni joined the Zoom meeting, it reminded me of a timeless truth from Zechariah 4:10: God often begins His greatest works through small and seemingly insignificant beginnings.

We tend to measure success by numbers, resources, visibility, and immediate results. God, however, measures differently. He values faithfulness, obedience, and perseverance. What matters to Him is not how impressive the beginning appears, but whether His people are willing to trust Him and take the first step of faith.

When the Jewish exiles rebuilt the temple under Zerubbabel, many were discouraged because it seemed insignificant compared to Solomon’s magnificent temple. Yet God told them not to despise the day of small things. What appeared small to human eyes was precious to God because it reflected obedience to His will and confidence in His promises.

Throughout Scripture, God repeatedly uses small beginnings to accomplish great purposes. He chose David, a young shepherd, to become a king. He used twelve ordinary disciples to spread the gospel throughout the world. Jesus compared the kingdom of God to a mustard seed that grows into a large tree. These examples remind us that God’s power is not limited by size, numbers, or human resources.

The same principle applies to our lives and ministries today. Every church, ministry, Bible study, discipleship group, and kingdom initiative starts somewhere. Small beginnings teach us humility, patience, dependence on God, and trust in His timing.

Zachariah 4:10 reminds us not to be discouraged by humble beginnings. Remain faithful, keep serving, and trust God with the results. In His hands, small acts of faith and obedience can produce an eternal impact.

“What begins with a few faithful people today may become a legacy that impacts generations tomorrow.”