When You Feel Small

Sometimes God calls us to do big things.

Like love the unlovable. Chase after our dreams. Believe the impossible.

But sometimes daring to do big things is scary. Very scary. Heart palpitation scary. Even when we’re trying to be brave.

And that’s when we can start to feel small. Miniscule. And completely inadequate for the task ahead of us.

I’m convinced that feeling small and inadequate is no sin. In fact, it’s simply us facing the facts. Because in all honesty, and in the grand scheme of things, we are small. And often our best efforts are feebly inadequate.

I’m thinking that is how Joshua felt. He had big shoes to fill. After the death of Moses, He was the Israelite’s new leader, and in spite of his training and the fact that God placed Him in that position, He apparently still struggled with fear. (Which makes me feel better somehow.)

But God knew Joshua’s struggle. And He knows ours. He understands when we feel small.

And that is why God said to Joshua, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong, vigorous, and very courageous; be not afraid, neither be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

Let that sink in for a moment.

When we feel small, God is with us. And that is how we can be strong, vigorous, and very courageous.

The truth is, when we feel small, God is still big. And He is right there with us.

He is bigger than our misgivings, our fears, and our conflicted hearts. And He never leaves us.

Never.

If we will dare to trust Him completely and believe Him wholeheartedly, He will strengthen our hearts and equip us, through His awesome presence, to do the big things.

Even on days when we feel woefully small.