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Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Today I have a devotion running on Proverbs 31 and Crosswalk.com regarding the importance of little decisions.

God has been speaking this truth into my life for many years. It's a principle I learned from reading Matthew 25 and Parable of the Talents. God was just as pleased with the servant who invested 2 talents as He was with the servant who invested 5 talents. Both servants showed themselves faithful with what they were given. And the one with the 2 talents didn't discount that which was entrusted to him because it was less. He valued it just the same.

I believe God is watching me constantly to see what I do with the "little" things He has entrusted to me. Am I faithful with what doesn't look like much to the others ... even me at times? Can He trust me with just a little bit more?

You see, being steadfast in little things is the truest indicator of whether you'll be steadfast in greater things. Making wise decisions in the little areas of life, prepares me for making wise decisions in the greater things of life.

I thought I'd share some of the little decisions I'm called to make every day that have great importance to me, and over time have proven to have even greater value when added together. These are not in order of priority, except for #1 and 2.

1. Reading my Bible daily. (Most of the time at night, just before bed.)
2. Not criticizing my husband.
3. Using coupons when possible. (A penny saved is more than a penny earned.)
4. Going to bed with my kitchen clean. (Helps me start the day with a right attitude)
5. Writing thank you notes. (I could still do better in this area)
6. Not saying "I would never do that .... say that ... wear that, etc. ..." (Helps keep pride and judgement from my lips)
7. Stopping what I'm doing and facing my children when they talk to me.
8. Using lots of fresh vegetables and fruits in my cooking.
9. Making shopping and errand lists.
10. Keeping my gas tank above 1/4 full.

I'd love to hear what little decisions you make that add up to make a big impact. I recently received a new book by author named Sarah Cunningham called Picking Dandelions. It's to be released next week by Zondervan. I've love to give it away to someone at random. Just make sure you leave a way for me to contact you.

In His Love,

Glynnis

**********************

It's Thursday night, and I'm happy to announce that Kerri was selected completely at random by my son Robbie, to win Picking Dandelions. Congratulations. I've sent you an email but if you don't get it, please contact me directly.

Tuesday - February 2 - I think Kerri's email address was typed in wrong, so I'm selecting another winner at random. Kerri - if you read this, send me an email and I'll send you another book. For now, I've selected Beth at jeffandbeth82@hotmail.com to win. Congratulations.

76 comments:

Certain Woman said...

Hello Glynnis,

I am so thankful for your article this morning, as I am facing several major mountains to climb, overcome or just go through. This probably would not have been the case if I had been wiser in my decisions leading up to differing situations. So I am taking great heed into what you said here and your post on P31. I know a couple of decisions I have made recently are to begin saving at least $5 out of my weekly check (praying that will increase), not parking close to the door at work and walking across the parking lot (hopefully those few extra steps will help my muffin top), drinking more water instead of running for my usual soda. As far as my family is concerned, trying to encourage my husband more in his business, being more affectionate with my sons and spending more quality time together playing board games, talking about spiritual issues or just being down-right goofy. So please keep me in your prayers and I will do the same.

Anonymous said...

Going to bed with a clean kitchen has really helped me with another little thing I try to do and that is to get out of bed at 5:30 every morning! This way I can have my quiet with God before all the kids get up!
Jessica
mariposa5280@yahoo.com

Debbie said...

Your article spoke to me on continuing with a goal I made to encouraging one person every day. A little decision of sending a card, making a phone call, dropping off cookies to a shut-in, or helping someone out just by holding a door. It may not be huge in my eyes but can make a real difference in someone's life. I want all of us to remember that sometime we are the only Jesus in people's lives. Pray that I will continue to reach out and be a blessing to others.

Anonymous said...

I also am on WW and have lost over 20 lb. I don't have children but I have two dogs. Taking them for a walk and picking up trash on my county road helps me exercise. Good job!

Lisa J said...

Wow what an inspiration. I never thought of some of these. Thank you for using something that is very dear to my heart.

I wish you best of luck on your weight loss journey also. It will take time but if you are committed you will see the results. I have been doing it for 7 months and still have a ways to go but just do the little things and plan and it will come off.

Christina Parker Brown said...

I love your writing. I especially love your blog you wrote some time ago about slowing down , how Jesus was always busy but never in a hurry. I printed it and saved it and read it every morning during my devotion to constantly remind myself to slow down. I just read your "Little decisions make a big difference" and had to laugh. We seem to have many things in common. My heart tug this month is helping others out and rolling up my sleeves and getting them dirty. David Jeremiah wrote a book about Signs of Life and in it he said Jesus was never home, had no where to lay his head, etc how he was always at someone else's house.... but oh, how comfortable it is to stay at home...... But it is in all the little decisions.... My friends and I helped a friend that is recently divorced and hurting to clean her house last night and I saw Jesus in her house last night. It was such a small decision..... they really do add up.
Blessings to you and your small decisions :)
And if you are ever getting rid of free books, I love to get free books!!
Blessings to you!

Unknown said...

My list of little daily decisions is a lot like yours. I say this as I see a counter and sink full of dirty dishes I have to now take care of this morning. Another (new for 2010) little decision I am making is to get to bed early and stop watching junk television shows and spending time reading celebrity tabloid-like stories on the computer. It just fills my head with nonsense that does me absolutely no good.

Anonymous said...

I found your blog by connecting from Proverbs31. I LOVE what you said about BLT's. :o)
I teach school and it hit home about the many decisions you make a day. I wonder how many of my decisions make life long impacts?
javabeachmomma@hotmail.com

Deborah said...

Good Morning! Your article is so in tune with my life. I am attempting weight loss too. We had a women's health seminar at church last Saturday and I have made a commitment to God to become a healthier me because my body is a Temple of God. It is so hard. I like to nibble too! I love your list. I plan to print it and put it everywhere to remind me. Thank you and Proverbs 31.

Sydney Millage said...

Good Morning, Glynnis--
The Lord led me here this morning when I had a couple of free minutes (miracle of miracles!). Then, after writing a comment, my family descended and the webpage was closed....C'est la vie. If I actually get this sent off to you this morning, know that God has used you to bring to mind 2 small decisions I have not mastered that will make a huge difference in my life. 1) Make time to meditate on Scripture (even 10 minutes a day) instead of listening to my MP3player or radio. 2) Take time to be my husband's "buddy."
Thanks for your encouragement. Perhaps you'll get this yet....
Blessings and Smiles,
Sydney

Anonymous said...

Thank you! I am a list maker also - it does help to keep me somewhat focused. I have fibromyalgia - often in the mornings I have what is called "fibrofog" of the brain - so one of the jobs I do before going to bed that makes a big difference in my day is to pick out what I will wear to work the next day and lay it out - therefore no big choices/decisions to make in the morning time.
Tricia Grable
patricia.grable@wsdtx.org
or gigglesngrace@me.com
Thank you

Karen Clark said...

Wow, what a great article. I started WW three weeks ago and I can so relate. It is battle for sure!! Thank you for making me take notice of all my little decisions. I believe they do really matter. Your encouragement through Proverbs 31 is so appreciated. Keep up the amazing work. There are ladies like me who live for the challenge!! Be blessed!!

Kathy said...

I have said for years that little things mean a lot and at the same time I have realized quite often lately that God is prompting me in the little areas of my worship to Him. To read your devotion this morning has put the two together and reminded me that what I accomplish in this life is all based on priorities. Specifically, putting God as my first priority, one "little" thing that makes a huge difference. Thank you. :)
kauppatgridcomdotnet.

Creations By Cindy said...

Love your 10 tips. What a fresh reminder those tips to us all. I thank you for your time and energy that you put into your devotionals. What a gift you have! Thanks again. Cindy

Debra said...

Thank You for your devotion today about little decisions. I like how you used the BLTS. very helpful as I also am on the weight loss journey.
Have a wonderful day!

WandaT said...

Thank you so much for this list of little things we can do. I'm going to post it on my refrigerator. It's an encouragement to me to realize that other Christian women face the same struggles daily. I will pray for you today that you get every thing done on your list and that you find time to spend with God everyday. Again thank you for your blog.

WandaT said...

Thank you so much for this list. All of these are things I want to do. I'm going to print the list and post it on my refrigerator. It's so good to see that we are all in these little struggles together. I'm going to pray for you today to get all the things on your list done and to be still with God long enough to hear His heart speak to your's. Thanks again for the list and kind words of encouragement.

WandaT said...

Thank you so much for this list. All of these are things I want to do. I'm going to print the list and post it on my refrigerator. It's so good to see that we are all in these little struggles together. I'm going to pray for you today to get all the things on your list done and to be still with God long enough to hear His heart speak to your's. Thanks again for the list and kind words of encouragement.

Jennifer said...

Recently one little decision I made was to pray for other people every day. When I made this decision I new that I didn't have a strong prayer life and I wanted one. Making this little decision has had a great impact on me. I'm starting to pray a little longer and praying every day. I even find myself listening for God to speak to me concerning different issues. Also if I happen to read a prayer request I stop reading and start praying. This little decision not only has given me a good start with having a stronger prayer life but it has also given me a way to do something for other people.

JenniferReneeRodd@gmail.com

Dana said...

Glynnis,
This is sooo true. Thank you for being so obedient. Praying blessings for you and yours.

Love in Christ,
Dana

Cindy W. said...

Thank you so much for your article. It really reached out to me this morning...as your emails always do. It is such a God thing when I am needing something spoken into my being and an email arrives from you. Thank you Glynnis.

I would love to have a chance to win the book, "Picking Dandelions".
God bless you.

cwoolard@ambsteel.com

Amy Vogel said...

Glynnis,

I read your devo on the Proverbs 31 in my email and was extremely blessed by it! You are so right on point and as I'm in a season of preparation for the mission God has for me that has yet to unfold, the little decisions have proved to be very important. Of course some of that has required making much bigger sacrifices - including treating my body as God desires (i.e. not eating and drinking what I want, when I want). But I've found, like you, those small changes make much more of an impact. Several months ago, my best friend told me, when I suggested taking on a new area of ministry, that I wasn't yet ready - God was still "building a consistent Amy." She said it in love and I knew I could trust what she was saying - and she was right. The Lord has revealed to me since then many ways I can make better choices with my time and in my relationships. Decisions that enable me to stay connected to Him and make decisions that please Him. As Jesus said - those who can be trusted with very little things can also be trusted with much! (Like 16:10) I think I will practice stopping what I am doing and face my children when they talk to me!

I pray The Lord will bless you today, in your physical and spiritual goals!

Amber Rain said...

Thank you for your blog, Glynnis. Again, you inspire and encourage me. Because I have been determined to not eat differently from the rest of my family, I've been eating what they eat, but half. Maybe skip the sour cream or the rich dessert and have a 100 calorie biscotti instead. Or if I had a relatively heavier meal earlier in the day, I might have a very small portion of something for dinner. So for my little decisions to say no to bigger portions add up. As does walking, since I'm attempting to "walk to Oregon" this year. I have to make the little decision to start walking, get out the door, because once I do, I do 4 to 5 miles. Reading my bible and praying daily are two major little decisions I also make. There are several on your list I know I need to make, but find myself apathetic. Thank you for encouraging me to draw some lines in new places.

KFKelley said...

Hi Glynnis,
Thank you so much for reminding me about the little things that matter. You are going to be in our neck of the woods this weekend and I am so sorry I can't make it due to another committment. I pray God uses you mightily as you teach many of my friends.
Blessings and peace,
KaRetha - kfkelley@bellsouth.net

Eagles Wings said...

wow what a great devotion...it's what the Lord has been laying on my heart the past week or two it's the little things...and funny you brought up the talents...I've been thinking about that one too..
THanks again for being obedient and sharing!

I'd love a copy of that book to read :-)

Wendy Blight said...

Glynnis,

Loved your devo today. I taught on this last semester in my Bible Study. It is such a VERY important Scripture that does not get much attention. The little decisions we make everyday can draw us closer to a godly life or move us further away. And if we are not careful, we can make little decisions that move us so far away it seems almost impossible to come back. Thank you for sharing such great wisdom with us today.

Blessings,

Wendy

Tina said...

I love your devotion today! I also love your blog and am happy when you have a new post. Your list just shows me how similar we all are in our struggles...it could have been written by me and I think I will print it and post it for myself =) I especially love the one about stopping what you are doing and facing your children when they are speaking to you....sometimes when I'm in bed at night I realize I was so busy that I didn't really make eye contact with my children that day and it is such a sinking feeling!

Tina
tfhowell65@aol.com

Unknown said...

The little decisions are so important, because the way in which we make them shows whether we can be faithful in the big ones! Here's my list:
1 - Spend time in God's Word every day
2 - Grocery shop only once each week
3 - Make my weekly family meal plan each Sunday
4 - Do one thing out of my comfort zone daily
5 - Encourage someone daily
6 - Deal with paper as soon as it enters the house
7 - Walk/exercise at least 3x/week
8 - Respond to people with grace
9 - Limit the time I spend on my laptop
10-Exercise my faith thru prayer - for my family, church and country daily

Melanie said...

Hi glynnis, loooved your devo and list! the one that struck a chord with me - and needs to go on my list - keeping gas tank above 1/4 full. We recently ran out of gas on a family vacation because I had not followed this rule.
And I needed the eating encouragement too! blessings friend - melanie

Ronel said...

Blessings Glynnis,
Glory to GOD for your obedience in sowing these words into our lives!
I have a friend that gets so irritated with me when I keep on reminding him that EVERYTHING in life is a choice. I guess it is because, when everything is a choice, one realizes one's complete accountability.
I must admit that tonight I got a bit irritated with myself for the wrong choices I have made in the past months. Oh, you know, it is off course the almost 'invisible' little ones, nothing that should even make a ripple on the surface... Well, I can confidently say tonight, that thanks to these 'little foxes' I am quite a few steps further from my goals than what I should be.
Thank you for reminding me that I am absolutely accountable for every single decision and choice that I make, however unimportant it might seem.
I will be asking myself with every smallest of choice that faces me: "blessing / curse, life / death". (Deut 30:19)
May GOD richly bless you. Num 6:24-26

Ren said...

Hi Glynnis,
God bless you this morning. Thank you for confirming to me that God does little things in our lives to bless others in a big way! I encourage you to press on the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus! May He keep using you in a great way!

Anonymous said...

Wonderful post this morning, I am reading my bible in a year. Chronologically. I am trying to keep all my negative thoughts to myself at my workplace. Next step is to say the encouraging words instead.
Blessings, Beth

jeffandbeth82@hotmail.com

Janice said...

Thank you for your devotional this morning. I really needed it, especially when you mentioned not critizing your husband. My husband and I are going through some rough times right now and I need to be his encourager not someone who makes things worse. Please pray that I can be the wife God created me to be.

Janice

Heather Golightly said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

Dear Glynnis-
I thank God so much for you and Proverbs-31. You are such a comfort in my day, and bring God's truth out every time. I am currently primary care-giver for my husband, battling with cancer. When he first got sick, a counselor told me to "divorce him". I'm glad I did not do it, for God put us together, and would certainly carry us through. When God shows us a thing to do, we must do it, and trust him every step of the way. Love you lots, Patty rom828@verizon.net

Anonymous said...

A few of the little decisions I've made: take advantage of coupons and sales only on items we need (I had a tendency to buy stuff just because it's on sale), prepare my clothes for the day the night before (my son does this now too), pack lunch and snacks to work (lessens the temptation of going out to eat). These may be little decisions but they're impact do add up over time.

Lola said...

The little decision to smile, even when all you want to do is frown, can change your attitude (and the attitude of others) in a heartbeat!

Thanks for the inspiration!

mommy2109@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

Taking advantage of coupons and sales to buy only items we need, packing lunch and snacks to work, putting my change in designated piggy banks are some of the little decisions I've been making for a while now. The effect may not be visible now but the impact will show over time.

horseprariechatter said...

Thanks for the reminder that it is seldom the big decisions that trip us up, it's really the little ones. I, too, struggle to maintain a healthy weight. I eat carefully and diligently at meal times, but find myself nibbling thru the day. Yes, one ten calorie nut doesn't seem like a big deal, but, 10X10-well... The greatest reminder is that God is so interested in the minutest details of our lives-like counting each hair on our head-that He cares for us as whole people,and His plan is for our success. Thanks for allowing God to use you.
Bev McDougal

Anonymous said...

Thank you for your article!! I too am on Weight Watchers and am finding it's the little things that add up to greater rewards!!

Heather Golightly said...

Thank you for your article. It is very timely. Just this Saturday I made a pact with my mother that we would both get up as early as need be to have quiet time with God in prayer, meditation, and reading his word. This has been a longtime struggle, not only to get up early but also to take the time to read the Bible. I've found that it's already getting easier to do and that I actually look forward to it. Today I made the little decision to keep my calm and not let an edge creep into my voice when dealing with a front desk staff member, something that is a real challenge for my anger issues. Instead of responding to them with a similar attitude, I tried to respond with grace. They turned out to be really helpful and even let me know about an upcoming event where I could get an expensive pet service for free!

Good luck to everyone making those not so little decisons throughout the day.

Anonymous said...

Thanks for you devotional today. I see a lot of items on your list that I need to start doing. The kitchen sink is a big one for me because I get tired of doing the same thing over and over. Which is silly because no one else will do it, so I need to just do it and move on. I will work at this. :-)There are a couple more that I need to work at. I need to encourage my children more too! Thanks for the reminders. Would love to win the book.

Nanci

kelbla@aol.com

Christina Midiri said...

Hi Glynnis,
Thank you so much for your article this morning. It really was God sent! I have decided to make my own list of "little decisions" to help me to overcome my battle of overeating, my spending habits, spending quality time with God and my family. Everyday it seems like a battle to get through the day in choosing the "wise" thing to eat, say, and do. It's only with the strength of the Lord that makes it possible for me. Thank you so much for your insight! God Bless!

Mimi said...

Good Morning Glynnis,
What a blessing of confirmation your devotional is for me today. As I walked into work this am from the parking lot, I was in conversation with our Father-- thanking Him for caring about this area in my life I have so struggled with, my weight. When trying to tackle poor eating habits, conjur up enough zing to jump on my treadmill after a long day (or cold morning), I've always failed. And much like the world would do, they cast quick glances at my efforts (and exterior) and dismiss the need for improvement simply because I am not a size usually related to "overweight". Giving them an ear easily defeats me. But whenever I co-labor with God to strengthen myself with discipline and thoughtful decision making, success is not too far behind. Your devotional was like a warm hug from Him, reassuring me that He does care about every single aspect of my life and He does want to be involved in every decision I make. Thank you for sharing your heart.

Kim said...

Great list! One thing I try to do everyday is think of something, doesn't have to be a big thing, that I can do that will show my husband that appreciate and respect him.

Anonymous said...

Your devotion was just what I needed to get me back on track today! Thank you! I am trying to find a job and sometimes the internet time gets in the way. And I have been meaning to go volunteer and join the gym, well today will be the day both items get done. THanks again!
kerri
kmacdonald@verion.net

Jodie Wolfe said...

Thanks for the reminder today Glynnis.

Blessings,
Pearls

Anonymous said...

How timely! God has used you and the Proverbs 31 devotions to minister to me yet again. It is heavily on my heart to gain control of my weight issues. Just last week, I decided to start doing 1 small thing a week to get headed in the right direction. Last week was to cut out all drinks with sugar in them. This week was to begin exercising (even if it's a little bit every day). The BLTs suggestion will be for next week as I think that will help me immensely. Thank you for your transparency and honesty.

I'd like the chance to receive the book. Kim - hinsonfarms@aol.com

Lucy Munoz said...

Thank you for your posting today, it really has brought perspective and insight. It is so true that the little things add up to more than the big things, not to dismiss them of course. We often lead daily routines so disconnected from life. We take for granted the little things that mean so much, simple adjustments, a little more effort to change some of the daily little things we take for granted can make a world of difference in our quest to be and remain connected to our Lord Jesus! Thank you for your wonderful words today.
luciamunoz2000@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

Hi Glynnis,
Thank you for your devo on P31 and your list of little decisions. At first I didn't think this applied to me but as I thought more on it, I realized it really did. I took the list you created and tweeked it to fit my life. For example, with your item #2, I changed it to say "support my husband more." He has always battled weight issues. Since I don't have weight problem, I have always felt that it was "his" problem to deal with. But this morning, I realized I have not supported him very much in this area. I plan to talk to him about signing up with WW online so that I can help with food purchases, etc. Another thing I did to my list is added "make bed in the morning." It affects my attitude in the evening. I am always up to reading new books, so please include me in your giveaway of "Picking Dandelions".
Joy,
Denise
thecomptons1234@sbcglobal.net

Anonymous said...

Thank you for your insight. I'd love the book if it came my way.

ashepherd@lowndes.k12.ms.us

Anonymous said...

Hello Glynnis,

Your article is so inspiring - sometimes things just seem to big, complicated or just too much for us to handle and - while we have confidence in our Father - taking those small steps (decisions) are sometimes the only way we can begin the journey to the place where we can give our best for our Fathers glory. So today I am going to be making some of those small decisions. Thank you for the inspiration.

Good luck with the weight loss. I am on that journey too.

Dawn
dawnchorus@live.co.uk

Anonymous said...

Hello Glynnis,

Your article is so inspiring - sometimes things just seem to big, complicated or just too much for us to handle and - while we have confidence in our Father - taking those small steps (decisions) are sometimes the only way we can begin the journey to the place where we can give our best for our Fathers glory. So today I am going to be making some of those small decisions. Thank you for the inspiration.

Good luck with the weight loss. I am on that journey too.

Dawn
dawnchorus@live.co.uk

Michelle Truszkowski said...

In my own weight loss blog today I wrote about my discouragement with not losing a bit more on my first week at doing the WW point system. (I lost 30 pounds 4 kids ago doing the same). Anyway, one sentence I wrote said "such big changes to me show little changes in me physically." It was after my post that I read my P31 devotion. Even the title spoke to me. I discovered that I too minimized the potential damage the BLTS were having. I love the correlation to our spiritual walk and it was no coincidence in the timing of that devotion. Thank you!

christine said...

Thanks for sharing the inspiring words; a reminder that even small things count in God's eyes. Your words renewed my sense of purpose in today, thank you!

Carlene said...

Glynnis, How I love your honesty! I don't know many women who are not dealing with weight and health issues. God seems to be impressing upon me more and more that taking care of my body is a spiritual issue! Have done better this year, so far. I guess that's why your devotion of BTLs made such sense, and brought smile, which always makes the medicine go down easier! Proverbs 31 devotions are powerful - thank you for your contributions. Some mornings I feel like I'm meeting with a friend when I recognise a name. Please keep up the daily devotions. A sister, Carlene

Anonymous said...

Hello Glynnis,

Misty Moreno here. I've been saved since August 2009. The decisions that I make now everyday are so different than my life before Christ. Everyday I choose to do the following:

1. Wake up at 3am to complete my God time, school work and run prior to waking my son up at 6am for us to go to work and daycare.
2. Kiss my husband before he leaves the house and tell him that I enjoyed him next to me last night.
3. Pray with my 3 year old on the way to daycare. I make sure I ask him where Jesus is and what He does ("Jesus is in Heaven mommy and he keeps me safe").
4. Live like I need Christ and not like I am Christ.
5. Be a silent witness when I can't tell my testimony. I try to live like the Godly woman I strive to be everyday in my walk, talk, and demeanor.
6. Thank all of the daycare workers for taking care of my son that day. I make sure Maximus thanks them as well.
7. Kiss my husband when he gets home and get him a glass of diet Dr. Pepper before he asks.
8. Clean up the kitchen/down stairs so my husband doesn't feel obligated to do it when I go to bed.
9. Go up to bed prior to being tired in order for my husband to have some "me time".
10. Humbly pray to the Lord for the influence He has had in my life.

I appreciate every moment I have with my family and the Lord now. These decisions keep me grounded and one with Christ.

Great post.

Misty Moreno at fitnessjunky@yahoo.com

Angela Walker said...

Thank you for such a great message. I love when God shows up and gives me an A-HA WINK. I've been praying that God would grow me to have a better stewardship over the blessings He has given to me and my family, especially financially. And today as I read your encouragement it occurred to me. It's not the big financial decisions that are standing in the way of what God may have planned for us. It's all my small decisions like not really needing anything at the store but since I'm there to pickup a prepaid pair of eyeglasses for my husband (cost $0) I might as well grab a box of (really don't need wheat thins and of course a new nail polish.) Those little financial decisions that may just be the reason God can't use me more effectively in our finances. Thank you so much for sharing this encouragment. It was definitely meant for me to read. Have a sweetly blessed day!

Angela Walker said...

Thank you for such a great message. I love when God shows up and gives me an A-HA WINK. I've been praying that God would grow me to have a better stewardship over the blessings He has given to me and my family, especially financially. And today as I read your encouragement it occurred to me. It's not the big financial decisions that are standing in the way of what God may have planned for us. It's all my small decisions like not really needing anything at the store but since I'm there to pickup a prepaid pair of eyeglasses for my husband (cost $0) I might as well grab a box of (really don't need wheat thins and of course a new nail polish.) Those little financial decisions that may just be the reason God can't use me more effectively in our finances. Thank you so much for sharing this encouragment. It was definitely meant for me to read. Have a sweetly blessed day!

Mandy said...

Wow! I really needed to "hear" what you wrote today. I am always saying I never have enough time but when I really stop to think about it, I do have the time, I just don't make the best use of it.

Unknown said...

Most of the things you have mentioned are things that I would like to do as well. I'm not so good at all of them, but I hope to be great at the soon!

One thing I know helps, if I will do it, is to not procrastinate on anything. It's hard, but if I will do it then, then I won't have to handle it twice or even three times.

Prayers and blessings,
Rebecca
tiggerdaisy@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

Thank you so much for this. It really has helped me. It is all the small choices that add up. After reading this, I have made some new decisions. Being more encouraging to my husband children, co -workers, etc. Pay closer attention to those around me. You never know what the person right next to you are going through. Playing more with my boys and doing"house" work less. Totally agree with starting the day with a clean kitchen. It makes everyones morning go much easier, when there is no messes to "avoid". I have my list of ten that I am honestly try to work on. I think I may even put it where I will re see it everyday. Thank you or this. It has opened my eyes and is going to help me with all the little decisions that add up to something big in the end.

Beth
cochran1998@hotmail.com

Rose said...

Thank you for your devotion. I particularly love the part about BLTS as I am guilty of those as well. I, too, am a fellow WWer and struggle daily with making the right decisions regarding food.

Thankfully, I have been starting to make the right decisions regarding exercise and look at exercise as a time to not only be healthy but to worship the Lord who has given me this body.

I know it will take some time to get the weight off, but while I'm doing so, I am making the conscious decision to Thank Him for giving me the tools I need to lose the weight.

Other decisions,
1. Spending time daily with Him
2. Telling my kids and husband I love them more than once a day
3. Drinking my water
4. Running a clean sweep through the house before bedtime.

I'd love a copy of that book! Oooh, pick me, pick me!

Dana said...

Deciding to fast from computer games has given me help in weight loss, having good quiet times, & in spending more time with my family. It is amazing how much time "5 more minutes" can eat up

Cyndi said...

I think my newest "little thing" that is making a huge impact on me and therefore my family is allowing the homemaker/housekeeper part of me to go off the clock once dinner is cleaned up. Just going into mom/wife mode and reading to or playing a game with my family has changed my attitude and endurance incredibly. Shockingly once in awhile they are all busy with their own thing and I actually get a bit of me time, something I never used to allow myself. I'm finally learning to knit! Thank you for the reminder for the importance of the little things.cyndirodgers@yahoo.com

April said...

The little things are so important-something that I didn't realize until I had a two year old soaking up everything around him. Some of my little decisions are to play Christian music through the day, instead of tv, when running errands, go home to eat instead of eating out, be open to the Spirit leading me to help some, and not talking/thinking bad about my husband (still working on that one...) Always looking for ways to do things better!
aprilbynum@ymail.com

Anonymous said...

Thank you for your wise words! It was a great reminder on how the little things in life matter. With two small kids, who are constantly watching me and paying attention to every detail, the small things definitely matter! And if I don't notice them, they certainly will for me! (which has pros and cons!) And thank you for the list of your important decisions. I needed a little boost again. I lost my husband and doing devotions was something we held each other accountable for, I miss that. It does take discipline, no doubt. But thank you for reminding me of how to keep priorities in check!
cchevelle69@hotmail.com
Holly

Anonymous said...

Oops..I forgot to tell you my small decision that has made big impact! One thing I strive for (especially after dealing with an ill husband)...is to keep the motto "Each day is a gift!" Everyday is special and important...act like it! Also, life is 10% of what happens and 90% of how you react to it. Don't let every small hill turn into a mountain. There is just so many times people miss the big picture of life and are consumed by small things! Seems like a play on words to be saying this, when we're talking that the small things matter!? :)
cchevelle69@hotmail.com

Colleen Reske said...

What I have begun doing is my own version of "praying without ceasing" in that I am keeping a running dialogue with God all day. My first thoughts tune to Him before I am even out of bed, I pray for those that are on my heart, and then throughout the day I just keep praying. I'm asking for help on so many things I tried to do alone before. I'm leaning on HIm in every challenge and pain and offering praise when things go well. I know He desires relationship with us, and I am leaning on Him and trusting HIm with everything I need, and thanking Him for his involvement in my life. I just need Him, and need to know He is always there. He strengthens me and gives me peace. I give Him my worship and my praise.

Unknown said...

I struggle with the "little" decisions every day because I know they are actually big decisions: reading my Bible, showing my kids I love them, building up my husband, and just loving others in general. Reading my Bible is where I fall down the most. In my head I always plan time where I can sit down and have time to read and be quiet with the Lord. And then sleep wins out or my kids wake earlier than I thought they would. I feel like there is never enough time in the day to do all the things I want to and enjoy and also keep up with all the daily things my family needs (like cooking and cleaning). Thank you for this reminder that you struggle with such things too. I want to be one who is listening for the Lord all the time in my day, beginning with how He speaks through His word. I am going to try more than ever to make sure I sit down with Him daily.

Micca said...

Glynnis, I always love your devotions!
I, too, need to remember to look at my kids when they speak to me. That's VERY important! Thanks for the reminder.

Also, I'm quick to react. One little thing I can do is stop and consider my action before I act.
thanks!

Anonymous said...

Thank you for your thought provoking devotion this morning.It really hit home! I think about goals that are quite similiar, but rarely do I write them out. Just by having them down on paper so that I can daily or hourly keep them before me, will help me reach them! I pray that we will by His Grace reach our goals!
Blessings to you,
Debbie B.

Anonymous said...

Thank you for your "right on" post. It really is the little things that add up. Since I am at home with my 18 month old, there are plenty of "little decisions" opportunities that I think I have overlooked. Your approach is helpful for me to tackle the big things one small thing at a time. I like the idea of going to bed at night having just read the Bible and have that be the last thoughts on my mind while I sleep. The clean kitchen is helpful too. :)
Sarah
sarahcamper@hotmail.com

Unknown said...

I really appreciated your Proverbs 31 devotion. I've been thinking about living more intentionally in the little decisions I make.

I loved this list too. I always clean my kitchen at night too. My husband doesn't understand, but he is thankful it helps keep the peace in our household. :)

kristinhilltaylor (at) gmail (dot) come

Unknown said...

January is almost over and the little decision I made in December last year was to read the Bible in the year 2010. I have been faithful to studing of the Bible every evening, as well as various other P31 authors books. I never knew how this one little decision would impact my outlook on my personal life as well as my career. I am like a "sponge" right now! I can't seem to read enough or pray enough or thank God enough for all he has provided me and my family. Thank you for all you hard work and time to prepare these devotions. They touch the hearts of a lot of women, mine especially. Kelly
(kella1953@aol.com)

Unknown said...

Hi Glynnis ! One decision I recently made was to do the things that I enjoy. I used to just think about doing them (photography, hiking, etc) instead of taking the time to go out and do them. It sounds simple or maybe even silly to some. But God showed me that He put certain interests in my heart and that being 'faithful in the little things' didn't just apply to things of duty but also to the things of enjoyment that He has called me to do. These things help feed my soul and the hiking is also helping me get in better physical shape (my weight has been an on & off struggle for years.)