It Starts Small

We are living in a strange world. Everything that seemed familiar has become repulsive. Everything we once did and who we were is gone from us. The “old normal” we were so used to has been removed and the “new normal” we eagerly hope for and seek is not yet in sight.

When is this ever going to end?

You are not alone. We are not alone! The of early church of Christ followers went through their “in between normals,” too. God reveals Himself in a new way through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The old ways of relating to God and doing life were no longer valid. The greatest problem, nobody knew what they should be doing or what was going to happen next. They had to live by faith and one day at a time. So, where does the story begin?

Luke, the author of Acts starts by referring to his “former book.”

I wrote the first narrative, Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach

Acts 1:1
(Bold for emphasis)

Scholars believe that the author is Luke by comparing the introduction to the gospel of Luke and the introduction of Acts.

1 Many have undertaken to compile a narrative about the events that have been fulfilled among us, 2 just as the original eyewitnesses and servants of the word handed them down to us. 3 So it also seemed good to me, since I have carefully investigated everything from the very first, to write to you in an orderly sequence, most honorable Theophilus, 4 so that you may know the certainty of the things about which you have been instructed.

Luke 1:1-4

1 I wrote the first narrative, Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach ² until the day he was taken up, after he had given instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. 

Acts 1:1-2

So what was the former “writing” and what was it about? It was about all that Jesus began to do and teach.

We need to come to a truth within our heart, if you have professed yourself and received Christ as your Savior, everything begins with Jesus. While we are between the two normals, we begin with Jesus. In uncertainty, we need an anchor. We need more than “something” to anchor to, we need a “someone” and that “someone” is Jesus! Jesus is our anchor to keep us grounded while He also helps us find our bearings.

Did you know that the God you believe in is right there with you in this moment? He is not some God who sits far off in the high heavens and unconcerned about your predicament. No, instead God took on human form, lived life on earth, and experienced all sufferings, just as we do. That is why Jesus can sympathize with each of us. Listen carefully! Jesus understands every detail of your life. He understands your joy and suffering. He understands your sadness and anger. He understands your weaknesses and strengths. He understands every aspect of you and your life because He also experienced life on earth.

¹⁵ For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin. ¹⁶ Therefore, let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need.

Hebrews 4:15-16

We can approach Jesus to find grace in our time of need! Can we say Hallelujah and praise the Lord?

Not only can we come to Him for grace, but did you know you already have everything you need for life and godliness?

³ His divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

1 Peter 1:3

All that we need to deal with living in this strange time is within us. We can do this!

Friends, this is the perfect time to Jesus seriously. This is the perfect time to be a “sell out.” This is the perfect time to completely surrender and trust in the Lord to lead. Gove yourself a chance and let God reveal Himself to you!

Thought to Ponder:

Are you ready to move forward towards the “new normal?”

Today, playfully commit your life, heart, mind, and spirit to the Lord. Take that courageous step forward and with confidence know that as your lifelong journey continues you are not alone and you already have what you need!

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© Kimberlee Smith 2026 http://www.itstartssmall.com All rights reserved.