No Little People

Years ago I read a book No Little People written by the well known Christian leader Francis A. Schaeffer. Now decades later the truth of the fact that there are “no little people,” no matter one’s stature, has come to shine its light deeply in me.

It has been a long fought journey learning to embrace God’s love and acceptance. Or, perhaps, learning to love and accept me, through the grace He has shown me. “Not good enough” has been an eroding, repetitive voice in the back of my mind since I was young. I recognize that voice in others, especially now that I can see its eroding effect in their minds, too. That drive to find one’s value in trying to become perfect, skinnier, more fashionable, wealthier, renowned, smarter… the list goes on and on. Endeavors not necessarily wrong in themselves, but detrimental when they become one’s god. Interestingly, the list only grows longer if one looks at it from a worldly point of view. No matter how high or far the earthly vista from which we view ourselves and others, we will never be enough, have enough, achieve enough, be satisfied enough. There is always want for more.

Then the still, small voice of the LORD quietly shouts, if only one would hear: “Do not despise the small beginnings for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin.” Zechariah 4:29a (NLT)

God also reminds us that He has called us from our mother’s womb, and that He knew our name before we were born! See Isaiah 49:1, and Psalm 139.

In Haggai 1:13 (NKJV) He declares: “I am with you, says the LORD.” He knows us intimately, even more than we know ourselves. And gives us the ability to grow into the unique person He has created us to be.

All these and more are promises that no matter how puny one’s efforts or self might feel, our worth in the LORD is what is true and finally matters. We are and remain loved, accepted, cherished. What a wonder He would die to save the likes of me! What a delight to find the never-ending Source of comfort for one’s battle-weary soul! Comfort for any soul who would but accept His gift.

To study more on this topic see Jennifer Rothschild’s excellent Bible Study Take Courage. Several of the above Scriptures were listed in Day 5 of Week 2, subtitled “Small Things Syndrome.” It spoke to my heart!