A Straw on the Ground

“Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” — from 1 Corinthians 10

Some people think that only big, important things matter to God, like preaching to crowds or building great churches. Brother Lawrence didn’t think so.

He said that he was glad when he could pick up a single straw from the ground for the love of God. Just one little straw! It is hardly anything at all. But if he did it because he loved God, it was a gift for God.

Brother Lawrence said that God doesn’t look at how big the job is. He looks at how much love it is done with. A tiny job done with love is precious to God.

So he told people never to get tired of doing little things for the love of God. He said that becoming more like God doesn’t mean doing different jobs. It means doing the same everyday jobs we already do, but doing them for God instead of just for ourselves.

That meant stirring a pot could be done for God. Sweeping a floor could be done for God. Even picking up a straw could be done for God.

You don’t have to wait until you’re grown up to do something for God. You can do it today: when you share a toy, help set the table or pick up something someone dropped, do it for him.

Dear God, help me to do little things today because I love you. Thank you that even small things matter to you. Amen.