The Joy of the Journey: Small Changes

The Joy of the Journey

Small Changes

In a world that often emphasizes grand gestures and significant accomplishments, it can be easy to overlook the power of small changes. Small things can be mighty in God’s eyes.  Scripture reminds us that small things can carry immense significance. Understanding the power of small changes can transform our lives and deepen our faith.

The Bible is filled with examples that highlight how small acts can bring great results. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus shares the parable of the mustard seed: “He told them another parable. ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown, it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” (Matthew 13:31-32). This illustration emphasizes that even the smallest beginnings can lead to significant outcomes. Just as a mustard seed grows into a large tree, so too can small changes in our lives lead to significanttransformations in our hearts.

Small changes are often more manageable and sustainable than sweeping reforms. People sometimes make the mistake of trying to do sweeping changes. Discouragement and frustration soon cause us to give up.  This comes from attempting to overhaul our lives all at once. I know, especially at the beginning of a new year, making changes can be a top priority.   However, taking small steps allows us to cultivate resilience and encouragement. James 1:22 states, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”  This passage calls us to action, but it does not specify that the actions must be large or dramatic. Instead, it invites us to take small steps toward obedience. Whether it is committing to daily prayer, reading a chapter of the Bible, or reaching out to a neighbor, these small acts of faithfulness can significantly impact our spiritual growth.  For example, many people decide they want to eat healthily and go on a strict diet. Sometimes they’re able to stick it out, but most of the time they soon abandon trying to eat healthy altogether, rather than taking small steps to change their diet. The same goes with our spiritual approach that we must take small steps towards what God wants us to accomplish.

In addition, small changes can ripple outward, affecting the lives of others. Consider the story of a single act of kindness: a simple smile, a kind word, or an offer of help. In Proverbs 15:1, we learn that “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger”. In our interactions, we have the power to create positive change through seemingly insignificant gestures. When we embody Christ’s love in small ways, we reflect His character and witness to those around us.

God values our intentions and efforts, regardless of how small they may seem. In 1 Samuel 16:7, God reminds us, “For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” This truth reassures us that our small efforts do not go unnoticed. Every step we take in faith, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is an expression of our desire to honor and serve Him.

Small changes can lead to greater faithfulness and readiness to accept God’s call. In Luke 16:10, Jesus teaches, “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.” This principle encourages us to be diligent in our small responsibilities, as they prepare us for greater challenges and opportunities. God rewards faithfulness and uses it as a foundation to build upon.  Instead of saying, “I’ll spend one hour a day in prayer,” how about just making a commitment to pray, and not watching the clock, but making it a habit that you’re going to talk to God every day. What about reading the Word of God instead of saying, “I’m going to read a chapter a day”?  What about just picking up the Bible and reading a verse? When these things are done out of faithfulness and consistency, they will produce fruit in our lives.

In conclusion, the power of small changes is profound in God’s eyes. By committing to make small adjustments in our daily lives, we embark on a journey of growth, faith, and discipleship. These small acts of obedience reflect our love for God and serve to build His kingdom on earth. As we embrace the significance of small things, we can rest assured that God sees our hearts and our efforts, no matter how humble they may be. Let us remember that in God’s eyes, every small step counts and contributes to the greater purpose of His divine plan.