Most of us are familiar with the slippery slope theory which warns that allowing small wrongs to go uncorrected can lead to big problems. We’ve seen that ignoring littering, vandalism, and petty theft can encourage more serious crime and make a neighborhood dangerous and unlivable for its citizens. Those small things can result in big problems.
Minor, seemingly insignificant things, when multiplied, can have a huge impact. Fortunately, this is true for good things, the small joys, as well as the unhappy events in life.
When we are bombarded by tragedy and turmoil, it becomes even more important to look for the little things which make life worth living.
Making it a habit to concentrate on the tiniest of His blessings and giving thanks to God for them can completely change one’s outlook, no matter the circumstances.
When I see crisp, white curtains billowing in a fresh breeze, that lifts my spirits and I am blessed. A grandchild’s smile, hearing from a distant loved one, flowers blooming in a neighbor’s yard, a good night’s sleep, laughing over a silly joke, or recalling a happy memory are all blessings for which I can be grateful and when I pause to give thanks, I begin to see the rich bounty that is mine.
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV)
The Bible admonishes us to be good stewards of those things God gives us. I think this includes our daily experiences. When we savor and share the joy of the small blessings, we are being faithful to God and sharing in His happiness.
23 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
Matthew 25:22-24 (NIV)
It’s incredibly easy to get overwhelmed by all the big, bad stuff around us. Looking for the little blessings is one way to restore our spirit and build up our faith.
