The WOW factor gets me every time. I love it when things are done really well, leaving no detail unchecked. And, I am admittedly a big picture person. Which at times can get me into trouble because I seem to overlook the small details. Details that should not really be left unattended. But in the grand scheme of things, I think "what the heck, who really gives a rip?"
Shockingly, people actually do care about the small things! Who knew? In fact just the other day I sat across the table from a brilliant leader in my church who is all about the details, and proves herself invaluable because of her attention to the smallest decision. It’s pretty incredible that she notices every tiny little thing. Where as I look at things from a completely different perspective. Both equally important, but sometimes it’s easy to forget that when we pay attention to the small decisions our greatest victories are won.
Everyone wants to get ahead these days, clamoring to find their place at the top of the heap. Looking for a quick way to be recognized or noticed. And, it does not take long before we are caught up in the whirlwind of misplaced fame, especially when it looks shiny and exciting. But in our conversation, do we ever really talk about the nitty gritty, the faithfulness it takes to be refined through the process.
Success is a tricky thing. Not every wildly successful person possesses the characteristics of a great influencer. As well, not every person who is successful makes an impact or changes the world. It could be because they were not faithful in the small things. In the race to get to the top, they skipped very important lessons that only faithfulness can teach.
When we give ourselves time and space to grow and learn, we understand the need to serve the vision of others. That is where our true character is developed. If the 10,000 hour rule is correct (which I believe it is) then in order to really be good at anything we need time to be practicing our skill over and over. Getting better with time, and moving past our desire to not only be the best at what we do but to make a great impact.
Mother Theresa states it so succinctly, ‘be faithful in the little things, for in them our strength lies, because He is so great we are so small. Not only is our character developed, but our intention is revealed. When we don’t want to put the time and effort into completing the small tasks, to serving a greater vision than our own intention becomes larger than life and keeps us from being trusted by others to do greater things.
Being faithful to complete even the smallest task reveals shows our grit and determination. When it could be so easy to throw in the towel and walk away from something we feel is beneath our ability, it will be sheer determination that keeps us motivated to continue. It will also be what compels us to keep working hard every day to be faithful to even the smallest decisions in our lives.
Some may rise to the top quickly. Their skill may elevate them before their character can sustain them. Learn to be faithful in the small things. Your impact will be greater and your character stronger.
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