Greg Chandler
07/13/19
Now that the title has gotten your attention, what is God’s big plan for your life? What is He preparing you to do that will be the crowning achievement in your service to Him? Many Christians labor under the notion that the “big plan” of God is “just around the corner.” They feel that every spiritual battle faced is another piece of the puzzle preparing for the event and that every opportunity for spiritual growth is drawing them closer; however, is this really the case?
To answer this question, list as many “Bible people” as you can. Likely, some of the following names appear on your list: Adam, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Peter, and Paul. Did any of the following make it on the list: The Rechabites, Macaiah, Abigail, Jehoida, Jehosheba, Barnabas, or the woman who anointed Jesus’ feet? If one were to make a list of all the people mentioned in the Bible, the “big name” list would be dwarfed by the “little name” list. This in no way diminishes the service provided by those whose names are easily identified for their strong service to God; however, it does point out that many people who appear briefly on the Bible’s stage served important purposes in their daily lives though their names are not as easily recalled. Such is the case for the vast majority of individuals who give their lives to God.
As the apostle Paul admonished the Roman Christians, he wrote, “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship” (Romans 12:1 ESV). As a way of worshiping the God who provided their salvation, these Christians were to offer themselves to God; they were now set apart for His service. In so doing, every day of life became an act of devotion; thus, no matter how small an action in the name of God might appear, this was His “big plan” for their lives. Just as these ancient brothers and sisters in Christ were admonished, so are we admonished.
Since Christians are not to while away their time looking for God’s big plan just around the corner, time is available to get busy on the things that might appear small. What, though, do these include? While it is impossible to provide a comprehensive list, consider a few seemingly little things that could have big results eternally:
Spend time with your children: When children are young, it sometimes seems that plenty of days are available for helping build strong spiritual foundations. However, ask most any parent whose children have left home and it will become evident that the days fly by “swifter than a weaver’s shuttle.” Little things, such as daily Bible stories, prayers together, and discussions on good morals culminate in a young person who is ready to face the world. Solomon knew this when he penned, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6).
Do good things for your brethren: It is no surprise that God compares Christians to a family. These relationships are to sustain us as we face the difficulties life can bring. Too often, however, we put our own needs first and do not take time to help this family. The apostle Paul admonished, “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing” (I Thessalonians 5:11). Kind words, visits to the sick and heavy-hearted, and cards of encouragement are but a few “little things” that can lift up brethren in Christ.
Help teach a Bible class: Not everyone has the skill set to teach; however, with training and practice, many Christians can provide worthy instruction to both children and adults. To borrow a worn-out line, many times this means “getting outside of our comfort zone.” If this proves too arduous a project to undertake, offer help to those who do teach. Assisting, helping make materials, etc. are little things that can make a big difference to one who teaches.
Invite someone to church: It is a little thing to say “why don’t you come to church with me?” The time it takes is minimal and the words that must be spoken are few; yet, this can have far-reaching impacts. Jesus stated that the second greatest command was to love one’s neighbor; what greater love can be seen than concern for the soul of another? This “little” action focuses on the eternal wellbeing of a neighbor. Never fail to show this kind of love.
While the list could stretch on for pages, these few examples show that we are capable of daily sacrificial living through these “little things.” In reality, none of them are little; they all bespeak an attitude committed to the betterment of others in their spiritual journey. In 1923, hymnist J.R. Baxter penned lyrics that typify the thought of this article. In his old hymn, Room in the Kingdom, he admonished:
There is room in the kingdom of God, my brother
For the small things that you can do;
Just a small, kindly deed that may cheer another
Is the work God has planned for you.
God’s “big plan” for your life is not waiting around the corner; it is here and now! Get busy with the precious days that He has provided so that your “daily sacrifice” life can be pleasing to Him.