Finding Big Purpose in the Little Things

There may be times in our lives when we’re tempted to feel small—insignificant—or that we don’t have much to offer to the world. At least not when we compare ourselves to those who seem to be accomplishing grand things.

How often do you see a newscast, hear a story, or even read a post on Facebook about someone else doing something exciting or extraordinary?

• One person gives a million dollars to a worthy charity.
• Another unselfishly spends years serving the poor in a distant country.
• A couple has fostered or adopted numerous children, providing them with a home where they can grow and flourish.
• A woman, who has survived hardships of her own, creates an organization to help unwed teenage mothers.

Have you ever asked yourself, what about me? What am I doing that has any significant purpose? Doesn’t God have anything better for me to do? 

I can relate. After working in non-profit for years, I was employed for a time with two separate companies. Although very different in what they offered to the public, the goal was the same: financial gain. It was business—and the point of business is to make a profit—but it was also disheartening at times. 

Then one day, God revealed to me that even in those situations, my life could have added meaning (aside from fulfilling tasks that made more money for my employers). My life could have purpose in the little things. A smile, a helping hand, or a listening ear could make it easier for a co-worker to get through a rough day. Showing patience or genuine interest in a person’s life could actually make a difference.

If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.  These three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. (1 Corinthians 13:3,13 NIV)

We may think that purpose goes hand-in-hand with fame or some kind of glory. But in reality, purpose is often found in things done quietly, humbly, and with little to no acknowledgement.

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” (Matthew 25:40 NIV)

We don’t need to wait for big events or major changes in our lives to live with purpose. Sometimes, it just comes down to loving and serving people the best way we can.

Look around you. In what small ways could you show kindness? God’s love? In what small ways have you found purpose in your own life?

Dawn