As we stated last week, a little is a lot when it comes to the slightest deviation of the Earth’s orbit around the Sun. Similarly, the slightest departure from God’s word carries serious consequences. Another example of this principle can be seen in the fact that falling away from Christ seldom happens overnight. Rather, it is something that occurs gradually, often with an almost imperceptible regression back into the world’s pattern of thinking and behavior. Just a little indiscretion or deviation from God’s plan can result in major departure and apostasy when carried out over a long period of time. The Hebrew author gave his readers a strong warning, saying, “Take care, brethren, lest there should be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart, in falling away from the living God” (Heb. 3:12). Then, he added, “Today if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts…” (vs. 15). There is an ever-present danger of taking sin lightly–thinking that the action of today will have no effect on tomorrow. But, the absurdity of such a position can be illustrated a thousand times over every day in the sorrows and heartaches we hear about in whatever source we rely upon for the latest news.
It is also the case that a little can make a lot of difference in a positive way. Consider the “cup of cold water” Jesus mentioned in Matthew 10:42. In Christian service, there is no act of love so small that its impact cannot be felt or its reward enjoyed. It may not be the “big” thing so much as the many “little” things done in the name of Christ that make the greatest difference in the lives of others. In the church, every member is important. Every member has a place that is uniquely his in the body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:13-27). God has placed each of us “in the body, just as He desired” (1 Cor. 12:18). There is a place of service for us in the church and who knows how much good may result from the little we offer.
— Glen Elliott —