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Small Talk from Angels | Jentezen Franklin

Sunday, April 7



Scripture

Zechariah 4:1-10, Genesis 39:2-5, Luke 19:20-21, Luke 19:18-19, Psalm 78:70-71, Exodus 33:11.

Introduction

Today’s discussion is based on Small Talk with Angels by Pastor Jentezen. As we embark on this journey together, let's reflect on the notion that in our spiritual walk, it's often the seemingly insignificant moments that carry the most profound significance in the eyes of God.

This guide is designed to deepen our understanding and appreciation of not despising small beginnings. Through this sermon, we are reminded of the significance of faith, perseverance, and the impact of grace in our endeavors, no matter how insignificant they may seem at the start.

  • Discuss what you remember from Sunday's message.

‘By My Spirit, ‘ Says the Lord

In the book of Zechariah, the Israelites found themselves in exile, a period of captivity foretold by the prophet Jeremiah to last for 70 years. As Zechariah penned his writings, this prophesied duration was almost complete. However, freedom was coming with an intimidating task for God’s people, rebuilding the temple.

Zechariah 4 is nestled within a series of eight visions that the prophet Zechariah received from God in regard to this task. These visions were not only meant to challenge the returned exiles to rebuild the temple but also to assure them of God's presence and guidance through the daunting process.

Let’s delve into Zechariah’s dialogue with an angel during a visionary encounter: 

Zechariah 4:1-10

4 I asked the angel who talked with me, “What are these, my lord?”

5 He answered, “Do you not know what these are?”“No, my lord,” I replied.

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, 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 dares despise the day of small things, since the seven eyes of the Lord that range throughout the earth will rejoice when they see the chosen capstone in the hand of Zerubbabel?”

Imagine the returned exiles back in Zechariah's time—worn out, facing opposition, disheartened, and financially strapped. Yet, they had an unbeatable advantage: God was with them. This historical account isn't just a story from the past; it's a vivid reminder for us today.

  • Reflecting on Zechariah 4:6, what does it mean for us personally to rely on God's Spirit rather than our own might or power when facing challenges in our lives?
  • In what ways can we practically cultivate a reliance on God's Spirit rather than our own strength or resources in our daily lives?

Let this be a reminder that when we face insurmountable challenges, it is not our strength but God's Spirit that prevails.

From The Pit to The Palace

Joseph's inner strength, shaped through adversity and fueled by his intimate connection with God, enabled him to thrive in circumstances where many would have faltered.

Genesis 39:2-4 The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master. When his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household, and he entrusted to his care everything he owned.

Joseph’s quiet wisdom complemented his self-assurance, endearing him to all he encountered—from Potiphar to the prison warden, fellow inmates, Pharaoh, and eventually, even his estranged brothers after years of separation.

In our journey of faith, it's often the small, seemingly insignificant moments that hold profound meaning in God's eyes. As we explore the concept of "small beginnings," we'll encounter perspectives that challenge our understanding of success and significance.

  • Are there areas of your life where you feel unnoticed or undervalued? 
  • How might God be using these "small beginnings" to prepare you for something greater?

Later in Joseph’s life, he was put in charge of all of Egypt as Pharoah’s second in command (Genesis 41:41). This was in part because he was faithful to accurately translate dreams. For Pharoah, Joseph translated a dream into a 14-year plan. Joseph was able to save a nation by translating what God had revealed about Egypt’s future into a practical plan, and then implementing it.

  • Discuss the tension between practically planning verses relying on God to accomplish a dream or a task.

Let’s be reminded that God sees and values our faithfulness in small things. 

The Faithful Steward

Luke 19:15-20 “He was made king, however, and returned home. Then he sent for the servants to whom he had given the money, in order to find out what they had gained with it. “The first one came and said, ‘Sir, your mina has earned ten more.’ “ ‘Well done, my good servant!’ his master replied. ‘Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities.’ “The second came and said, ‘Sir, your mina has earned five more.’ “His master answered, ‘You take charge of five cities.’ “Then another servant came and said, ‘Sir, here is your mina; I have kept it laid away in a piece of cloth.”

Jesus shares a parable illustrating the importance of faithful stewardship. In this story, a nobleman entrusts his servants with different amounts of money before going on a journey. Upon his return, he calls them to give an account of how they managed his resources. The servants who were faithful with even the smallest sums of money were commended and rewarded with greater responsibilities.

This parable teaches us valuable lessons about faithfulness and responsibility in our own lives. It reminds us that how we handle even the seemingly insignificant aspects of life reflects our character and readiness for greater opportunities. Just as the faithful servants were entrusted with more, when we prove faithful in small things, we position ourselves for greater blessings and responsibilities in the kingdom of God.

Reflect on the talents and resources God has entrusted to you. 

  • How can you faithfully steward these "small" gifts for His kingdom? 
  • Are there steps you can take today to invest these resources wisely?

Application from ‘Small Talk with Angels’

Here are some of our favorite points from the message.

Idea! Let the discussion center on what is most meaningful and most challenging for each of you.
  1. Hold the line. Start with what you have. It’s not by might, not by power, but by the Spirit of God. Don’t let the enemy get you to give up on what God has promised you because of location frustration.
  2. If grace can’t make it happen, forget it. All your talent and connections are not enough. Sometimes, the grace of God must get in a situation to change the entire atmosphere.
  3. It’s always too soon to quit. God notices people who hold the line. Keep praying, giving, worshipping, and praising God.
  4. Don’t undervalue where you are or what you have. Do not despise the day of small beginnings. Joseph was betrayed by his brothers, accused of rape, and imprisoned for 17 years. But he did the best he could with what he had. And because he didn’t despise his day of small beginnings, he went from the prison to the palace in 24 hours.
  5. Be faithful with little. If you’re not faithful with little stuff, you can’t be trusted with big stuff. Jesus translates faithfulness with little things to reigning over big things.
  6. God noticed that Joshua tarried in the temple. In times of prayer and worship, don’t be too quick to leave God’s presence. Exodus 33:11 “The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent."
  7. Jesus notices your attitude. Luke 8:51, “When he arrived at the house of Jairus, he did not let anyone go in with him except Peter, John and James, and the child’s father and mother.” The other disciples stayed out in the hallway while the Master was performing a miracle in a shut room. Whenever you feel like you’re put in the hallway, keep a good attitude! If you’re waiting, don’t let the little things discourage you. 

Closing

As you navigate life, facing its challenges and striving to live out your purpose, remember not to rely solely on your own strength or capabilities. The pressure to be self-sufficient can be overwhelming, but there's a different, more powerful way to live. Choose to lean on God, drawing on the power of His Spirit. It's through His Spirit that we find the strength to overcome obstacles, the grace to grow, and the courage to continue, even when the odds seem against us. Big or little, be faithful and rely on Him.

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