We are impressed with big accomplishments. The spotlight shines on strong finishes. ESPN’s Sports Center features the highlights. We like watching those. Success stories capture our imagination. Even as we read the Bible, we gravitate to the fascinating stories of David and Goliath, Daniel in the Lion’s Den, and Jesus feeding the five thousand. Those stories rightly inspire us to trust God for big things.
But the people who make the difference in my life don’t do many big things. Instead, they are faithful to do little, uncelebrated things every day. If you were to watch them in one moment you would not be impressed. But if you watched their life over time, you would be forever changed. They may have a daily to-do list. They may have big, hairy, audacious goals. But more than anything else, they love Jesus and allow His life to spill over into every little corner of their lives.
I don’t know many people who have changed the world, but I do know people who have changed me. And I’m not sure they would be quick to give advice on how to make difference, but if they did, here are a few small things they may suggest:
- Feed your soul on God’s Word every day.
- Be generous with compliments.
- Wash the dishes and put them away.
- Read a book.
- Push your kid in a swing.
- Take a walk or a nap. Either one will be good for you.
- Tip well regardless of the service.
- Have a conversation with a new friend or an old friend.
- Laugh out loud.
- Invite someone to follow Jesus with you.
- Say “Thank you” and “You’re welcome.”
- Buy a stamp, write a note, and mail it.
- Do your job and pay your bills.
- Offer your seat to a stranger.
- Take some extended time to pray.
- Kiss your wife and no one else’s.
- Show up early with a smile and a kind word.
It seems small things make a big difference to the people who mean the most. So stay faithful. You and a lot of other people will be glad you did.
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