Hospitality, Friendship, Encouragement

Monday, September 18, 2017

Small Deeds Of Ordinary Folk





My friend Karen, shared a meme with this on it today on FB.  The quote goes along with much of what I have been thinking about lately.

Many people are fearful of the times we are living in, and yet God placed us at this point in history.  He knew what the world would be like in 2017 and He placed us here with purpose.

When I feel overwhelmed by terrorism, or hurricanes, or (insert the blank) I can do several things: I can look to God who put me here at this point in history and ask Him to show me who He is in these situations, and I can do small deeds to reach out to others and hold the darkness at bay.

I can pack my husbands lunch, and read with my kids.  I can make dinner for those who may share my table from day to day.  I can be a thoughtful neighbor, and a listening friend.  I can encourage others.  I can blog, and I can share beauty on Instagram.  Most importantly I can pray.  You see, God didn't put us here and then leave us to figure it out on our own.  He's with us day by day, guiding, helping, encouraging us, so we can be His hands and feet in this world.  

Tolkien had it right.  Here is the full quote - 


“Some believe it is only great power that can hold evil in check, but that is not what I have found. It is the small everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keep the darkness at bay. Small acts of kindness and love."


What are somethings you do, to hold the darkness at bay?

9 comments:

Linda said...

Right now my daughter and granddaughter are in Puerto Rico bracing for a strong Hurricane Marie coming towards them with a category 4 or 5 depending on when they check the radar. If I had a 7 year old daughter living in PR....that's where I would be, too. I am 68 years old with a 54 year old daughter
.....and here I am in Texas praying for them. Yes, I am trusting that they took every effort to protect themselves from the hurricane which will land on them Wednesday. I'm also trusting God's plan for all those in the path of Maria. It is still scary and my heart is aching but I am trusting God....and asking for prayers for my daughter....

Cathy said...

I like this thought a lot. I don't recall wver hearing this quote but I like it and believe it's true. Thanks for sharing this.

Rebecca said...

The full quote is great! (Would you believe I have not read any Tolkien!?) I think it make be part of coming of age, but I have found increased contentment in the small every day deeds. Ordinary is just fine with me. Not mediocre though!

Theresa said...

Oh how I needed to hear this, God led you to put it here FOR ME! I am struggling watching my Aunt suffer from a recent stroke. I am trying to encourage her and her Son while praying without ceasing for strength for ALL. Thank you my friend! Have a beautifully blessed day! HUGS!

Unknown said...

That is one of my favorite quotes. Thank you for reminding me of it.

There are days when I feel frustrated with how little of a difference I can make in the world, but then I realize that I can make a world of difference for my family. I cook them nutritious meals and we always eat supper together. I make sure we have great books on hand and read with them and provide creative play things. I support my Middles in their endeavors and interests. I cheer on my oldest children when things are great and lend an ear and a shoulder when things aren't going as well. And when I'm feeling rather spent I make pretty things because it makes me happy. It's taken me a lot of years to realize that God made me exactly how He wanted and put me in just the right place and time. I find so much comfort in that.

Vee said...

Comforting post! Tolkien would know...

Rhonda said...

What a wonderful quote and a great reminder that the little things we do for our family and friends can make a big impact. Thank you for sharing this!

Kim said...

I totally agree. Thanks for the reminder that the busyness of an ordinary day can do much for body and soul. :)

Lorrie said...

It is the small things we do each day that add up to a lifetime of caring or not caring. I pack my husband's lunch each day, do his laundry and make sure his shirts are ready to wear. And he washes my car, changes the oil, and takes out the garbage cans. Together we help each other.

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