In a culture where value is placed on grand displays of power and influence, it is easy to get caught in the comparison trap that creates an enormous pressure to do more, try harder, or “go big or go home.” The constant striving for greatness and abundance can disrupt our peace, happiness, and confidence.

Like many women, Rachael Adams questioned her worth, which she based on her contributions as a wife, a mother, and a child of God. She believed that her modest, routine work was insignificant and meaningless. Rachael needed a reminder that God finds importance and significance even in the simplest, most ordinary tasks and that He multiplies the smallest efforts for his kingdom and will.

In her book, A Little Goes a Long Way: 52 Days to a Significant Life, Rachael offers biblical truths about God’s ability to unlock eternal influence when we consistently pursue and obey Him. Her desire is that other women find fulfillment, satisfaction, and purpose—not based on their circumstances but based on God’s promises. Some of the reflective truths she offers include the following:

• A little work: God honors our work and can make it meaningful—just as He did in the Bible. Scripture instructs us to do things with all our heart because we serve the Lord through our work. If we don’t see immediate results of our efforts or feel unappreciated, we need to remember that our work is to be done out of our devotion to him (see Col. 3:23–24).

• A little conversation: Jesus’ conversations went beyond brief pleasantries. When He asked questions, He showed His desire for a conversation and the intent to create a connection and fellowship. We should take the initiative and respond to others like Jesus did, remembering our words hold the power to bless others (see Proverbs 18:21).

• A little effort: God desires to use us to fulfill his purpose even though He could do it on His own. He works through those who make an effort for him. We should have compassion to help others with needs because our kindness can lead others to Jesus (see Mark 2:3–4). • A little gratitude: Jesus gave even if gratitude was not guaranteed. We should not give with the expectation of appreciation from others. Our giving isn’t based on reciprocity from others but on our reverence and obedience to God. Everything we do for Him should be out of our love for what He has done and who He is to us (see Col. 3:16–17).

• A little forgiveness: Choosing forgiveness can be a difficult decision, especially if the other person has hurt us repeatedly or is not repentant. Forgiveness is a process. Believers are called to forgiveness without limit as Jesus demonstrated. When we forgive others, it is a reminder of how much we too have been forgiven (see Col. 3:13).

Rachael reflects on God’s goodness, grace and blessings that she personally experienced through her parent’s divorce as a child, and the uncertainty and healing through an adult health scare. Rachael shares that a little hope, and forgiveness, go a long way when we pursue a life of obedience and submission to God.

“God sees and values every little thing we do when we partner with Him to impact eternity in ways we never imagined,” says Adams. “We need to remember that even small acts in our daily lives can be significant for God’s plan. Our attitude can inspire those around us and fill us with satisfaction and joy as we focus on God’s ability to utilize our efforts to accomplish great things.”

A Little Goes a Long Way features reflective stories from Rachael’s life, practical action steps to discover confidence in your life, encouraging prayers that express gratitude, and biblical examples of people whose lives seemed insignificant but were powerful in accomplishing God’s plan.