p. 3 | Small Beginnings by G. B. T.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 28, 1915

Small Beginnings

By G. B. T.

We should learn not lightly to esteem the day of small things. In fact, we note that when God works, it is frequently from small and apparently insignificant beginnings. There is no bluster or noise in the marvelous and incomprehensible works of nature. The giant oak grows silently from the little acorn. Millions of tons of water are lifted noiselessly into the air, to fall and refresh the earth. It is “first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear,” and then the harvest. From Adam and Eve have sprung the human race. From a few disciples in the “upper room” the church has grown to cover the earth. From five small barley loaves the multitude was fed. From the mustard seed, among the smallest of seeds, a tree comes forth in which

the fowls of the air may rest. A tiny spring in the mountain is the beginning of a great river on which the commerce of a continent may be carried.

Moments are but fragments of time, but from them the eternal years are made. The mighty ocean is formed from tiny drops of water. A slight cold may result in a burning and deadly fever.

This law holds good in spiritual matters. The kindly word, the sympathetic look, the little deeds here and there performed daily, leave their influence, and start vibrations which reach into the eternal years. Little seeds of love unconsciously planted are watered by the rain and sunshine of God's grace, and bring forth a bountiful harvest.

The destiny of souls turns on the little things in life, the giving of a cup of cold water, visiting the sick, clothing the naked, and feeding the hungry.

We need to learn the great importance of the little things and sow by the way such seed as will bring to us a harvest of joy. He is commended who is faithful in that which is least.

G. B. T.