Day 11 – Don’t Underestimate the Small Things
Matthew 13:31-32
Here is another illustration Jesus used: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. 32 It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches.”
Whenever I read something like verse 32, I can’t help but be reminded of one of the catchiest lyrics in Australian advertising: “From little things, big things grow.” I’m sure as you rhythmically read those lyrics in your head, your hands involuntarily started to make the infamous diamond shape featured in the TV Ad. While that’s one of my favourite ads, the original song by Australian artists Paul Kelly and The Messengers reflects a deeper truth. It captures how small, seemingly insignificant moments, conversations, and interactions can have an enormous impact on our everyday lives. What began as a simple campfire jingle under the stars in the 1980s became a rallying cry for justice and equality within our nation.
When I reflect on these moments in history, I am encouraged to never underestimate the power of small things—because, as Jesus teaches in Matthew, the smallest seed can grow into the largest garden plant. Take a moment to think about that in your own world. Our faith often feels strongest during two kinds of seasons: when experiencing God’s breakthroughs in our lives or when we’re enduring our greatest trials and tribulations.
But what about the everyday? The mundane? The small, seemingly insignificant moments? What about in our work routines, the Monday-to-Friday blur that can easily pass unnoticed? What about those meetings, briefings, appointments, and shopping trips? Is our faith at its peak, or has it faded into the backdrop of the day to day?
I believe we need to make intentional decisions to invite God into these small moments. To ask Him for guidance, wisdom, peace, strength, and clarity, even in the ordinary. When we commit all our work to the Lord—not just the ‘big decisions’— He will establish our plans (Proverbs 16:3).
Today, I pray that you will have faith in these small things. That God will reign over every area of your life. That He will truly be at the centre—and through this commitment, your faith will go from strength to strength.
Family Discussion Questions
1. What are some small moments in your past week or month that you believe God was working in?
2. What are some areas in your life that are seemingly small and insignificant, that you can hand over to God this week?
Response - Reflect
Prayerfully consider the small things you need to hand over to God. Just as there is nothing too great for our God, there is nothing too SMALL for our God. It could be your meetings, your drive to work, the conversations with your friends and neighbours, etc.