Tiny Mustard Seed

Most of us don’t want to feel small.

We want to matter. To be seen. To know our lives are making some measurable difference. Yet Jesus chose one of the smallest seeds to describe how His kingdom grows—and that should arrest our attention.

“The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed…” (Matthew 13:31–32)

Have you ever felt like the least?
Overlooked. Undervalued. Hidden in plain sight.

What if that place—the very place we resist—is often God’s chosen starting point?

In God’s economy, small is not a setback. It is often the seedbed of greatness. Scripture reminds us:

“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” (James 4:10)

We are called to a life that runs against the grain of self-promotion—a walk of humility that is unselfish, undemanding, and deeply centered on who He is rather than who we are. This kind of life requires more than polite modesty. It requires surrendered hearts willing to serve, to love without applause, and to quietly prefer others above ourselves.

A mustard seed does not need much to begin growing. A little water. A little nourishment. And time.

So it is with the Word of God.

When even a small portion of His Word falls into a receptive heart, something begins—often unseen at first. Roots form. Life stirs. What once seemed insignificant begins, slowly and faithfully, to grow into exactly what God intended.

Do not despise the small work God is doing in you.

Do not overlook the quiet seasons when nothing seems to be happening.

The Master Gardener knows precisely what He planted—and He is faithful to water what He plants. Ask Him to show you the mustard seed He has sown in your heart. Watch for its growth. Cooperate with His tending.

What feels small today may, in His hands, become a place of shelter for you and blessing for many.

Prayer

Father, create in me a humble servants heart that seeks first after You. Teach me to trust the small beginnings You have ordained. Amen.

“He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” (John 12:25)

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© 2026 Jan Ross
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