We live in a day of big things—big shopping centers, big buildings, big churches. Big appetites, super-sized food items, which of course result in bigger bodies and bigger health problems. And how could we live without the Super Bowl, the World Series, or the Olympics? Some projects are described as world-wide, global, or universal. We like to think big, and we often try to act big.
The Old Testament prophet Zechariah asked, “For who has despised the day of small things?” (Zech. 4:10). He was referring to the rebuilding of the temple by Zerubbabel, reminding God’s people that the plumb line in his hand was in the eyes of the Lord. Jesus also spoke of being “faithful in what is least” (Luke 16:10). We must not forget the importance of little things, little deeds, and little people. In the eyes of the Lord, there are no “big shots”—only humble servants doing the work He has given us according to the talents we possess.
Consider the value of a few small things:
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The Kingdom (the Church) began as a mustard seed that grew into a great tree (Matt. 13:31).
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The widow’s two mites were greater in God’s sight than the abundance of the wealthy (Mark 12:41).
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Bethlehem, though small among the thousands of Judah, became the birthplace of the Savior (Micah 5:2).
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David’s sling was little compared with Goliath’s spear, yet it was mighty in God’s hand (1 Sam. 17).
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The one-talent man was expected to be just as faithful as the five-talent man (Matt. 25:14).
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Dorcas and her needle accomplished great good in helping the needy (Acts 9:36).
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Every member of the Lord’s body is important, just as every part of the physical body is necessary (1 Cor. 12:13).
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“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.” (Prov. 25:11)
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Jesus said, “Whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple… he shall by no means lose his reward.” (Matt. 10:42).
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And again, “Whatever you do to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.” (Matt. 25:40).
Small things are important in the day-to-day work of the church.
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A friendly greeting to a visitor
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A phone call to check on someone absent
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A card to the sick, shut-in, or bereaved
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Inviting someone to Bible study or worship
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Volunteering without being asked
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Reading your Bible every day
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Beginning and ending each day with prayer
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Smiling and spreading cheer
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Commending the good you see in others
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Encouraging a young person
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Lending a helping hand wherever needed
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Being on time for Bible study and worship
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Giving a tract to a friend
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Teaching a lost soul
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Restoring someone who has fallen away
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Providing transportation for someone without a ride
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Attending all services of the church with enthusiasm
Such things may seem small, but God never overlooks them—and neither should we.
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