What You Can Do with What God Has Given

What You Can Do with What God Has Given reminds us that small acts of faith and compassion matter when we obey God’s call to serve.

“If you say, ‘Behold, we did not know this,’ does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who keeps watch over your soul know it, and will he not repay man according to his work?” (Proverbs 24:12).

Many people feel powerless, unable to do anything meaningful. Others are so preoccupied with their own problems that they’re never moved by needs in the world. Some see mountains and assume they cannot be climbed. Others see armies and assume defeat is inevitable. Some stay so busy they don’t realize they have important choices to make.

Addressing the attitudes of people like this, 18th-century British statesman Edmund Burke once said, “Nobody makes a greater mistake than he who does nothing because he could only do a little.” He realized that each of us can do something. We’re accountable for the resources we’ve been given, and we have a responsibility to do whatever we can.

Some people are like the priest and Levite who saw a wounded man but walked on by. Others are like the Samaritan who reached out in compassion and helped meet the man’s needs. Jesus said that we are to be like this good Samaritan (Luke 10:30–37).

God knows our hearts. He knows what He’s given us and what we can do. He’s looking for people who will be His servants … who reach out to help … who are ready to give to others.

Make sure you’re not guilty of doing nothing because you “could only do a little.” Be ready to bless others with the blessings God has given you. Ask Him to show you what He wants you to do.

Reflection Question: What little thing could you do today that honors God?