Zechariah 4:10

Small things marked the beginning of the work in the hand of Zerubbabel, but no one should despise it, for the Lord had raised up one who would persevere until the headstone was brought forth with shouts. The plummet was in good hands. This is the comfort of every believer in the Lord Jesus: even if the work of grace is ever so small in its beginnings, the plummet is in good hands. A master builder greater than Solomon has undertaken to raise the heavenly temple, and He will not fail nor be discouraged until the topmost pinnacle is raised.

If the plummet were in the hand of any merely human being, we might fear for the building, but the pleasure of the Lord will prosper in Jesus’ hand. The works did not proceed irregularly and without care, for the master’s hand carried a good instrument. Had the walls been hurriedly run up without due superintendence, they might have been out of the perpendicular; but the plummet was used by the chosen overseer.

Jesus is continually watching the erection of His spiritual temple, so that it may be built securely and well. We are for haste, but Jesus is for judgment. He will use the plummet, and that which is out of line must come down, every stone of it. This is why many a flattering work fails, and many a glittering profession is overthrown. It is not for us to judge the Lord’s church, since Jesus has a steady hand and a true eye, and can use the plummet well. Do we not rejoice to see judgment left to Him?

The plummet was in active use—it was in the builder’s hand, a sure indication that He intended to continue the work to completion. O Lord Jesus, how truly glad we would be if we could see You at Your great work. O Zion, the beautiful, Your walls are still in ruins! Rise, You glorious Builder, and cause her desolations to rejoice at Your coming.