One of the most intriguing things about Michael Phelps’ eight Olympic medal trek is that more than one of his victories was decided within a stroke or two of the final touch-pad. In fact, you may remember that a twist on the usual stroke brought him a win by the smallest of margins. Think of it: one action could mean the difference between first and fourth place.
Big victories are achieved through the smooth integration of small practices. In other words, you’ve got to be consistent with the “littles” in order to win the “bigs.”
Ignoring the minor details can be disastrous. This was brought home to the working Chicagoans who had offices in downtown business district known as the Loop. In an article in the April 27, 1992 edition of the U.S. News & World Report, the busy and productive Loop economic region had enjoyed a status of high-energy success… until one embarrassing and costly morning.
Traffic and business was stopped as thousands received reports about a leak. A big leak. In fact, a HUGE leak. A quarter billion gallons of dark Chicago River water was spewing into a 60-mile system of ancient freight tunnels directly beneath the Loop. The ensuing plumbing and electrical disasters stopped virtually every business in the area, costing untold millions of dollars in lost revenue.
The problem? It seems that a top city official was aware of the initial leak, but felt that the short-term advantage of saving some money for the local government was worth it. The repairs would have cost only about $50,000. The final cost of the damage? Over $1 billion.
Sir Humphrey Davy once said “Life is made up, not of great sacrifices or duties, but of little things, in which smiles and kindness, and small obligations given habitually, are what win and preserve the heart and secure comfort.”
The Bible expounds the same philosophy as Solomon writes "Catch the foxes for us, The little foxes that are ruining the vineyards, While our vineyards are in blossom."
Small things. Those nasty little sins can drive a wedge in our peaceful walk with Jesus. You know what I mean:
That impatient attitude towards your kids. That small lie to get you out of a situation. That exaggeration about yourself you place on your MySpace or FaceBook page (and let's also add the prideful attitude in doing so). The sarcastic remark you give to your spouse or good friend. The gossip you can't wait to share...
The little sins we commit are like rude replies to Jesus' questions about how we can grow closer to Him.
