Don’t Ignore Little Deeds

Posted on: July 28th, 2013

Sometimes we may think if we cannot do something big and grand then we had might as well not do anything at all.  Why do we feel this way and is it a valid reason not to act?  Let’s look at the first part of the question.  Now while I cannot answer for everyone, there are some basic causes that I believe cover most cases.  For example, some feel embarrassed when they cannot do as much as others.  One may also believe his small role has no value or will not make any difference.  Another person may think he has too little time, assets or ability to share what he has with others.  And to be honest, people often fail to act simply because they do not want to take action.

Before you make light of little deeds or question your own worth please remember how a “youth”, with a sling and single stone, killed a giant. (1 Samuel 17)  David did not have the physical strength, training, or armor the soldiers did, but he defeated Goliath.  So while his victory was big, I suggest it would have never happen without the small acts of a boy with great faith.

The Bible often speaks of little deeds leading to great success.  Peter “raised his voice” on Pentecost and around three thousand people obeyed the gospel. (Acts 2:14-41)  He then “opened his mouth” to Cornelius and by his preaching the Gentiles received the gospel.  Peter’s little words forever changed the world and man’s place before God.

Tabitha’s many acts of kindness so endeared her to Christians that after she became ill and died they called for Peter and he raised her from the dead. (Acts 9:36-40)  What did she do that was so wonderful and great?  She made coats and garments to clothe needy Christians.  She had the love God wants from all of us; a love that does much.

We do not want to forget about the lad who only had five barley loaves and two small fish, and yet his supplies fed about five thousand people. (John 6:9-13)  This young boy was the only one who came prepared.  However, Jesus took what the lad had and turned it into a great miracle.

If you still think small deeds mean little, consider the story of the poor widow. (Matt. 12:41-44)  Jesus was watching people put money into the treasury and saw the “rich put in much”.  Then He sees a poor widow drop in two small coins not worth much.  The Lord’s praise is for her, not the wealthy who gave much.  You see, she gave all that she had while the rich gave from their excess.  It was a greater sacrifice on her part than theirs.

Just because we feel inferior or inadequate compared to others, this is no reason for us not to do what we can.  In fact, many Bible characters became great because they took little steps.  God does not decide how great we are by how much we amaze people.  To be a faithful Christian is what makes us stand out in His eyes.  Remember what Jesus said, “For I say to you, among those born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.” (Luke 7:28)

It is also important to know that what others can or cannot do has no bearing on what God wants from me.  I will never be able to do what Peter or Paul did as apostles.  What matters is if my name appears with their names in the same Book of Life. (Rev. 3:5)    And it will, if I do the small deeds God wants from me just as they did.

Remember, God can turn a little into a lot, just as He did when David slew Goliath or when Peter opened his mouth and ushered in Christianity.  We never know when a small kind deed will help another.  Letting a person know you have confidence in them can make it easier as they struggle with weakness.  By just answering someone’s Bible question you may get them thinking about spiritual issues.  We would do well to recall what Paul said, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” (Gal. 6:10)

Let’s make sure we are not among those who refuse to act simply because we do not like what the Bible says.  Scripture comes from God and reveals His Will for us, but sadly many choose to ignore its message because they would rather do as they please.  They want to enjoy the pleasures of this world more than they want to serve God.  God gives you the choice to serve or not, but if you want His love and grace you must obey Him, including the little deeds of a godly life.
Terry Starling

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Colossians 3:17  And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,