Your small deeds of kindness may go unnoticed by others, but God sees them. And they can reward you in ways you never dreamed possible. Take the case of Joseph. Betrayed by his brothers and lied about by his boss’s wife, he ends up sentenced to a thirteen-year prison term. If ever a person had reason to turn sour on life and God, it was him. But instead of giving in to self-pity, he focused on the needs of others. Joseph had two prison mates: a butler and a baker who had worked in Pharaoh’s palace, fallen into disfavour, and landed in a cell next to Joseph. Note what the Bible says: ‘Joseph came in to them in the morning and looked at them, and saw that they were sad’ (Genesis 40:6 NKJV). Before God allowed Joseph to care for the nation of Egypt, He observed his care towards his fellow inmates. As a result, when one of them was restored to favour, he recommended Joseph to Pharaoh as a man qualified to meet his need. Compassion is important to God. When you see a need, try to meet it. If you dream of doing big things, start by doing small things with a good attitude. Arrive on time. Complete your work early. Don’t grumble. When you’re given a task, take it on and God will reward you for it: ‘His lord said to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord”’ (Matthew 25:21 NKJV).
