By Kendra Roehl

Do you think only a big Yes matters? I have a story that proves the power of a small Yes that can inspire you. Even our small Yes can lead to big opportunities of encouragement.

The Power of a Small Yes

Years ago, I woke up one morning to the news that my beloved uncle had unexpectedly passed away. 

When I called my friend Terri, it was simply to see if her teenage daughter was available to stay with my kids for the day. She wasn’t. Without hesitation, Terri said Yes and offered to take them herself. 

I sat in a puddle of tears on the floor. “You don’t want to take my kids!” I exclaimed.

“Sure, I do,” she said. “I’m already on my way.”

I felt relief wash over me as I got up and ready. When Terri arrived, my parents and I drove several hours to my aunt’s house, sharing thoughts and stories of my uncle along the way. 

Now, I cherish the memories of that day of spending hours with my aunt, sitting next to her on their worn blue loveseat in the same place my uncle loved to sit. I held her hand as we looked out the window, watching family members come and go. I am forever grateful for that day.

I realize that day was only possible because my friend Terri stepped in, willing to help at a moment’s notice. Her small Yes turned into to big encouragement for me and others.

Reflecting on the Power of a Small Yes

As I texted Terri the story and once again thanked her for being such a good friend, she told me she hardly remembered helping me out that day. Her response made me smile:

“I think we may never know the positive impact we make when we’re faithful to His call with a word or a deed. 

God just once in a while lets us see when we get to hear ‘I’ll never forget when you said’ or ‘I’ll never forget when you did…’

things we may have forgotten or thought were no big deal. 

But God knows what’s a big deal. 

I try to remember that every time I hear that still, small voice

to say and do the things he says, when he says them, 

because they’re always bigger than I think.”

My friend’s words resonated in my heart as I pondered them the rest of the day. We never know the impact we may have when we say yes and offer a hand, a listening ear or a small act of kindness. 

Your Small Yes Has Power

In the busyness of life, it can be easy to miss a small Yes opportunity, thinking it won’t mean that much or have a great impact. But sometimes, the small things we do for others matter the most. 

Today, if you’re in a place where you wonder if what you’re doing is too small or insignificant, let me remind you: It all matters to God. It’s all important. Your small Yes has much power. In 1 Corinthians 15:58, Paul says:

My dear brothers and sisters, stay firmly planted—be unshakable—do many good works in the name of God, and know that all your labor is not for nothing when it is for God. (VOICE)

There is significance in our large acts, to be sure. But our small, kind words and actions matter to those around us as well. None of our labor is in vain. Even the smallest Yes matters to God.

Wife Step: Be intentional to offer a small Yes to someone today.