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Start small and see the bigness of God


Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. 
(George Eliot)

It was Eliot who reminded us, "Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together." Small things add up, don't they? We may not see the effect of one small action today, but in the far off 'tomorrows' that one action may mushroom into a far greater outcome than we ever thought possible.

So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith. (Galatians 6:9-10)

We can grow weary in doing good at times. We plug along, taking all the right steps, doing all the right things, being as 'right' as we are able to be each and every day. Fatigue in 'doing' is natural - we get tired when we are active. Yet, contrary to what we might imagine, it is that action that actually keeps our bodies healthy. Might it just be that 'good actions' in a spiritual sense are also making us 'healthier' spiritually?

Work for the benefit of all - not just the benefit of one. This is a hard concept for some, as all they can think about is how the actions will benefit themselves. They find it hard to see beyond their own needs and wants. Unfortunately, if that is the case, they will often grow wearier and weaker. Why? God intends for us to look beyond our own needs, seeing the needs of others, taking action to meet those needs with whatever means we have at our disposal. 

It may be an extension of our time or talent. It matters not that you don't have money - give your time, energies, and abilities to another and God will bless what you have given. Do you know what I have discovered? When I give my time, energies, and abilities to another, God actually gives me greater energy than I expended. Sure, I get tired in 'doing right', but it is in doing that we are built up for the next thing we are called to do. So 'don't grow weary in well-doing' - for God's blessing awaits you at the end of that doing. Just sayin!

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