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Have you ever seen the ripple effects of a pebble being tossed into a still pond? The ripples continued far beyond the point of impact. It’s like the tiny mustard seed that Jesus spoke about, that tiny seed grows into a huge tree where birds can nest (Matthew 13:31-32). Often, in our lives - In our Christian walk, we underestimate how our small actions and everyday choices create ripples that touch the lives of others in ways we may never see.

The Hidden Nature of Impact

Do you remember the story of the widow who gave a small offering? While others made a point to show the large sums given from their wealth, Jesus pointed out the greatness of her sacrifice because it was all she had (Mark 12:41-44). Those of us who use social media know that many times, impact is measured by likes, shares, and visible results.  But unlike the social media world where the impact may be somewhat obvious, God sees what others don’t.

God notices the silent prayer we may whisper for a struggling coworker, the encouraging text sent to a friend, or the extra few minutes we take to listen to someone who's hurting. As 1 Samuel 16:7 reminds us, "People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." We have to remember that our impact isn't measured by the world's applause.

Everyday Moments That Matter

You know, every day we can take small actions that can create lasting impact. It could be the genuine smile and thank you to a stressed retail worker, letting someone ahead of you in traffic, taking time to really listen when someone needs to talk, or responding with patience when you're frustrated. Whether we’re on the giving or receiving end of these actions, the impact is there, and it makes a difference.

Zechariah 4:10 encourages us: "Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin." God sees and delights in our humble offerings - and He multiplies them beyond our imagination. God sees the potential impact in our smallest acts of faithfulness.

Areas of Unseen Influence

Our area of influence extends even further than we might think:

  • Family & Home

Think of the daily prayers you pray for your children, or spouse, or other family members. Even if they don’t seem interested in a faith journey, you know your prayers are for building a spiritual foundation or helping to maintain one. Your walk with God speaks volumes to your family and it does have an impact.  Your faithful example sets a tone that impacts others.

  • Workplace & Community

Matthew 5:13-16 says that we are the salt of the earth and light of the world, even if we don't demonstrate this by making bold declarations. Sometimes it's the small decisions we make that maintain our integrity. Or when we show compassion while other people choose to be judgmental. It’s also when we do our best work even when no one notices.

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters" (Colossians 3:23). Even in the workplace, our character can have an impact.

  • Church & Ministry

We may not lead a ministry or hold an office, but "small" acts of service do matter, things like setting up chairs before anyone arrives, making coffee or providing refreshments for fellowship time, sending cards to the sick or bereaved, it's being faithful in the duties we perform even if they seem insignificant. "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms" (1 Peter 4:10).

Nothing we do is too small when we're demonstrating our faith. Just like that tiny mustard seed, our faithful acts have the potential to have an unexpected impact. We may not always see the full extent of our influence, but we can trust that God is using our everyday faithfulness to create ripples that extend far beyond what we can see.

We shouldn’t underestimate the power of our presence, our prayers, or our simple acts of obedience and faithfulness. God can take these small seeds of faith can grow them into a harvest, one that is more abundant than we could ever imagine.