One Simple Act

“There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two small fish, but what are they among so many?” (John 6:9, NKJV)

Recently, I heard a minister relate the very familiar story of the feeding of the 5,000—with a twist. He told the story from an angle that I had not considered. His remarks were directed to those who feel that what they are doing for God is insignificant, of little importance. Have you ever felt that way? I have.

The feeding of the 5,000 is an oft told happening during the ministry of Jesus. The story is found in each of the Gospels (Matthew 14, Mark 6, Luke 9, and John 6). The cast of characters includes the Lord, His disciples, a young boy (no name or age given), and a massive crowd of people. The boy had brought his lunch with him, which apparently others had not. Even if it was a hearty portion, the five small loaves and two small fish weren’t that much food considering the great need.

There is one important, but unmentioned, person in this story. I believe that although unrecognized, she was an integral part of the miracle that happened that day. Who was it, you ask. The momma who made the bread, baked the fish, and then wrapped it up for her son to take with him.

One small action—packing lunch for her son—made a very big impact on the events of that day. Jesus used this simple act of motherly love to perform a miracle we still talk about more than 2,000 years later. Mom was part of the miracle. Unknowingly, she blessed a multitude that day.

When God called Moses to lead His people out of Egypt, Moses had trouble accepting the call. He offered the Lord excuses about his inabilities. They won’t believe me. They won’t listen to what I say. They won’t believe You called me. God did not accept any of his excuses. Instead, God had a question for Moses.

So the LORD said to him, “What is that in your hand?” He said, “A rod.” (Exodus 4:2, NKJV)

Today, all God asks is, “What do you have in your hand?” It may be something small—like a little bit of bread or a piece of fish—but God is the multiplier. He will use the smallest things to make a big difference.

Moses had a staff.

David used a slingshot.

Gideon and his army held a trumpet, a lamp, and a pitcher.

Dorcas used a needle and thread.

The young boy’s mom fixed lunch.

These stories all teach us valuable lessons on allowing ourselves to be used by God, even when what we do seems insignificant and unseen by others. We must never call insignificant the abilities and tools God has placed in our lives. It is so easy to look at what we consider the great accomplishments of others and compare them to the “insignificant” things we do for the Lord. We do not always see the end result of what we do or the way God multiplies even our smallest acts to bless others.

Remember these things:

• Our part is to offer what we have. God will do the multiplying.
• Even our smallest acts may affect an untold number of people for their good.
• There are no “small things” with God.
• Others may never know what we do, but God will.
• When God blesses our efforts, there will be “leftovers” (remember the 12 baskets) that provide blessings into the future.

Lord, I offer You what I have in my hand, however insignificant it may seem to me. Use it as You see fit to bless the lives of others. Help me to never compare myself to others but allow You to work through me however You see fit.