What Is in Your Hand?
Have you ever felt like what you have is just too small to make a difference? Maybe you’ve thought, “If only I had more resources, more talent, more time… then I could do something worthwhile.” The truth is, God, loves using what we consider “small” to create something incredible. From simple resources to acts of kindness, God delights in taking our “little” and turning it into something impactful.
Today, let’s explore how what’s “in your hand” is often more valuable than you might think. Even the smallest thing, when placed in God’s hands, can have life-changing potential.
“Elisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?” “Your servant has nothing there at all,” she said, “except a small jar of olive oil.” Elisha said, “Go around and ask all your neighbors for empty jars. Don’t ask for just a few. Then go inside and shut the door behind you and your sons. Pour oil into all the jars, and as each is filled, put it to one side.”2 Kings 4:2-4
This woman started with nothing but a tiny jar of oil—and ended up as an oil merchant. Our smallest resources can lead to great things when we have faith. It reminds us to appreciate what we already have and trust that, God will use our little and turn it into much.
The Power of Small Beginnings
The Bible is filled with instances that show, how God uses small beginnings to accomplish big things. Take David, for example. Here’s this young shepherd with a sling and a few stones, going up against a giant, Goliath, armed to the teeth! From a human perspective, David’s tools were laughable. But God used what was in David’s hand to bring victory to His people (1 Samuel 17:40-50)
This is a reminder that what’s in our hands, even if it seems small or unlikely—can be powerful when used for God’s purpose. No matter how insignificant your gifts or resources might seem, God can work through them in ways beyond your imagination.
The Widow’s Oil
In 2 Kings 4:1-7 a widow in desperate need, when her husband died, and creditors were threatening to take her sons as payment for her debt. She cried out to the prophet Elisha, and he asked her a question we might all recognize: “What do you have in your house?” Her answer? “Just a small jar of olive oil.”
That tiny jar seemed like nothing to her, but Elisha told her to gather all the empty jars she could find and pour her oil into them. To her amazement, the oil kept flowing until every jar was filled! That little bit of oil not only paid off her debt but provided for her and her sons.
God used what she already had—something small, overlooked, and seemingly insignificant—to perform a miracle. Sometimes, all God needs is our willingness to use what’s in our hands, no matter how small it seems. He will take care of the rest!
Cultivating Gratitude for Everyday Blessings
Our lives are filled with tiny, beautiful blessings that we often overlook. It could be something as simple as a warm cup of coffee, a smile from a friend, or a few minutes of quiet. These small moments are gifts that God gives us daily, but it’s easy to rush past them in our busy lives.
The Bible encourages us to practice gratitude in all circumstances
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
When we stop to appreciate these small moments, we start seeing life differently. Gratitude opens our hearts and minds to the beauty God places around us, and it strengthens our spirit for the journey ahead.
Our Kindness Counts
Small gestures can create ripple effects, impacting others in ways we may never see. A kind word, a helping hand, or simply being there for someone in need—these small acts can brighten someone’s day and plant seeds of hope and love
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9
Even when it feels like no one notices your kindness, God does. Our small acts of kindness, like seeds, can grow into something beautiful, far beyond our immediate view.
Focus on the small stuff – it all adds up.
Whether it’s in our work, relationships, or daily routines, paying attention to the little things makes a difference. When we put care into the details, it shows love and respect for what we’re doing—and for those around us. Every time we listen carefully, do a job with excellence, or simply take a moment to show someone they matter, we’re honoring God.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Colossians 3:23-24
When we approach even the smallest tasks with this mindset, we reflect God’s love and grace in all we do.
Conclusion
So, the next time you feel like what you have is too small to make a difference, remember: God, delights in small beginnings. He can use what’s in your hand—no matter how modest—to bring about His purpose.
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” Zechariah 4:10
Let’s embrace what we have, even the “little” things, and trust God to do something beautiful through them.
You never know how God might use your small acts, your daily gratitude, or even the smallest gift to make a big impact. Every little thing in God’s hands is part of something greater.