A beautiful sunset. A child's smile. A delicious
meal. A restful night's sleep. An encouraging word.
We take for granted the little things. When we pause and reflect
on them and realize how much they make up our days we usually
have a better appreciation.
Little Things Matter
The big things in life--jobs, relationships,
birth, sickness and death-these get our attention. It's not
surprising. The things that affect us on a deep level, whether
life threatening or life changing, are important.
It's how we handle the little things in life that help us deal
with the big things. Life is a process and our salvation includes
the transformation process we undergo. Usually we have to unlearn
many our old ways before we can truly adopt the new ways.
Have You Passed The Test?
One of the most frustrating things I find
about my own life is how often I get tested on living the new
way (what we call living in the solution) and how frequently
I don't pass the test. It doesn't mean I've failed. I'll get
to take the test again…and again. When I lack patience
or procrastinate or lust for self-gratification I am always
given at the moment of temptation the opportunity to do something
other than give in. Usually it's a little thing. I can change
my thought. I can redirect my efforts towards helping someone
or doing something useful. I can pray. In short, I can change.
Part of living in a daily solution is accepting the help that
God gives us. If we are turning to the Comforter Jesus promised
then help is always there. It's interesting that Jesus referred
to the Holy Spirit as the Comforter and Helper. He promised
this help would be available for us in all things. That means
the big and the little things.
You can find lots of inspiration and guidance on the "little
things" that make up our life in the Book of Proverbs.
Little things add up. Try to live life aware of your moments.
Be involved in the little things and watch your life change.
That end result, living a life dedicated to God and loving and
serving others as Jesus taught, is a very big thing.
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"The
purpose of these proverbs is to teach people wisdom and discipline,
and to help them understand wise sayings. Through these proverbs,
people will receive instruction in discipline, good conduct,
and doing what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will
make the simpleminded clever. They will give knowledge and
purpose to young people.
Let those who are wise listen to these proverbs and become
even wiser. And let those who understand receive guidance
by exploring the depth of meaning in these proverbs, parables,
wise sayings, and riddles"
