Main Thought
We remember and celebrate the birth of Jesus during the Christmas season. Jesus was born small, but His birth was one of the most significant events in human history. Small things can be very big in God’s Kingdom! God sees and loves people that society might classify as “small” or insignificant. He even sent an angel to announce the birth of His Son to shepherds - who were of low social status in the eyes of their culture. If we ever feel small or insignificant, we can take courage in knowing that God sees us and that He can use us.
God values humility and faithfulness over fame and power. King David, one of the Bible’s most famous shepherds, lived with this faithfulness and humility. He led sheep with consistency and care before God called Him to lead a Kingdom. He did “small” things with excellence and integrity. Still, when the time was right, David used his weapon. David used a simple sling to slay a giant. We can use the gifts, talents, and passions that God gave us too. David threw a stone to slay Goliath - but he also “threw” the name of God. God’s name carries His authority and power. When we pray in the name of Jesus, God can answer in big ways. Let us be faithful in the small things, like David. God sees it all, and He will reward those who faithfully complete the task in front of them.
Main Passages
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
- Luke 2:8-12 NIV
“He chose David his servant and took him from the sheep pens; from tending the sheep he brought him to be the shepherd of his people Jacob, of Israel his inheritance. And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.”
- Psalm 78: 70-72 NIV
“David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.”
- 1 Samuel 17:45 NIV
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Main Passages above?
God consistently used “small” people, roles, acts of faith, and more to accomplish big things. (Think of Jesus being born as a baby, David starting out as a shepherd, or small lunches being multiplied and used to feed multitudes.) Why do you think He operates this way?
What task (or tasks) did the Lord assign to you in this season of your life? What does successfully continuing or completing that task look like to you?