Little Big Man
Wednesday, July 26, 2023
“It is clear, then, that self must stand out of the way, that there may be room for God to be exalted. And this is the reason why He often brings His people into straits and difficulties, that, being made conscious of their own folly and weakness, they may be fitted to behold the majesty of God when He comes to work their deliverance. He whose life is one even and smooth path will see but little of the glory of the Lord, for he has few occasions of self-emptying and hence but little fitness for being filled with the revelation of God. They who navigate little streams and shallow creeks know but little of the God of tempests; but they who are “doing business on the great waters” see “his wondrous works in the deep.” Among the huge waves of bereavement, poverty, temptation, and reproach, we learn the power of Jehovah, because we feel the littleness of man.” – C.H. Spurgeon
“Little Big Man” was a movie released in 1970 and based on a book by the same name, written in 1964 by Thomas Berger. Categorized as a western, the film also has elements of drama, comedy, and adventure. Starring Dustin Hoffman in the title role and costarring Chief Dan George, Faye Dunaway, and Martin Balsam among others, the story is told in a series of flashbacks by 121-year-old Jack Crabb, the oldest man in the world.
Crabb, who is living out his life in a hospice, recounts his time as a Cheyenne captive, a gunslinger, an associate of Wild Bill Hickok, and a scout for Gen. George Armstrong Custer. In fact, Crabb claims to be the only white survivor of the Battle of the Little Bighorn.
Crabb received his Indian name, Little Big Man, for an act of bravery as a youth. Despite his diminutive size, he rescued Younger Bear from certain death at the hands of a Pawnee brave.
In today’s quote, Charles Spurgeon reminds us that when we try to act big – or to follow the path of least resistance in life – we appear small in God’s eyes. However, when we humble ourselves before Him amidst life’s trials, we see His greatness in action.
How about you, my friend? Are you willing to live a life of real consequence, totally committed (and submitted) to God? If so, get ready to experience some monumental highs and some devastating lows, but with Jesus by your side every step of the way.
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6 (BSB)
- Rev. Dale M. Glading, President
