The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it - Zechariah 4:9
The beginning of something new usually comes with some excitement. For example, the start of a new job, a degree, a ministry, a building project etc, all bring a measure of joy to the vision carrier. While we’re alive, God invites us to begin something new, no matter how small. For example, there was great rejoicing when the foundation of the Lord’s temple was laid (Ezra 3:10–11). More so, the Scripture admonishes us never to despise the days of small things (Zechariah 4:10). Beloved, a good start is not the end goal. Zerubbabel's story didn't end at the foundation of the temple. The same prophet declared, "His hands shall also finish it" (Zechariah 4:9). God celebrates beginnings because He intends completions. So, as you start a new project today, you must take cognizance that God delights in completion.
Unfortunately, many beginnings never reach completion and the reasons vary, but one is rarely mentioned: spiritual contention. In our quest to finish what was started, it’s important to realize that the spirit realm governs the physical. And more so, understanding that God rules in the kingdom of men is vital for completion (Daniel 4:17). For example, the answer to Daniel's prayer was delayed twenty-one days by the prince of Persia who had custody over the spiritual territory (Daniel 10:13). Daniel’s answers were released only after God deployed the Archangel Micheal (Daniel 10:21). God is a loving Father who wants His children to finish well. In fact, God Himself is a finisher. He completed creation and declared everything He made to be very good (Genesis 1:31). He is neither a slacker nor a waster of resources.
Beloved, we do not wrestle against flesh and blood ... (Ephesians 6:12). God doesn’t want us to get stuck. He rules both the spirit and physical realms and He is always available to help us through trying times (Daniel 10:12–13). God never intended for us to leave things half-done, and He supplies the grace to complete our projects (2 Corinthians 9:8). So, how do we avoid being stuck? 1. By committing our plans to Him (Proverbs 16:3). 2. By planning wisely: counting the cost, starting small etc (Luke 14:28; Proverbs 21:5). 3. By heeding early signs of stagnation and asking Him for the way out (James 1:5).
Beloved, are you stuck midway? Not to worry, God’s grace is sufficient to help you finish.