³¹ He told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. ³² Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.” ³³ He told them still another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about sixty pounds^[a] of flour until it worked all through the dough.”

How like God to use something small to change something big.

In Matthew 13, Jesus compares the Kingdom of Heaven to two small things–a mustard seed and a bit of yeast. Even though the seed is tiny, it grows into a large tree that serves as a home for many birds. And even though there’s only a little yeast in the bread dough, it makes the whole loaf rise.

From a human perspective, it doesn’t make sense that something so small could have such a large effect. But in the Kingdom of God, all things are possible. Size doesn’t matter to God. He doesn’t need us to be big or powerful or mighty, because He is all of those things. If we want to further the Kingdom of Heaven, if we want to serve God, all we need to do is be faithful. Be willing to be used. He will do the rest.

REFLECT: The Bible is full of stories of people who were weak or unimportant but did great things for God–people like David (the youngest of his brothers), Moses (who didn’t speak well and asked God to choose someone else to lead the Israelites), and Mary (a young, powerless girl). Why do you think God uses seemingly insignificant people to accomplish big things? What does it show us about His character?

APPLY: Do you ever feel too small or insignificant to accomplish anything for God? This week, choose one of the Bible characters mentioned above and read his or her story. (The anointing of David: 1 Samuel 16, God choosing Moses; Exodus 3. The angel appearing to Mary; Luke 1,) Think or journal about how God used that person in a mighty way. Let this encourage you as you consider your own life.

CONNECT WITH GOD: Lord God, in our culture, usually the smartest, the strongest, the most attractive and the wealthiest win. I’m grateful that in Your Kingdom, You turn that all around. I am amazed when I consider all the small things You use to accomplish great things. Thank You for the examples throughout the Bible of people who weren’t that strong, or smart or brave. But they were willing–and You did the rest. Help me to be willing to let You use me. I want to be a part of spreading Your Kingdom.

(Francine Rivers from Earth Psalms)

Let’s pray for Sanjay and the Dakhbari Sangati where they are reaching people in seven villages outside of Dehradun. It started with Sanjay reaching out to young people and now young people are reaching seven villages with the Good News. Let’s pray for them as they are poor and need God’s provision especially in these days. This is how the Kingdom of God grows as one tells another one.