By Nicole Brown
We live in a culture that celebrates big moments. We cheer when someone hits a weight-loss goal, gets a promotion, or shares a picture-perfect life event. While there’s nothing wrong with celebrating those things, sometimes we overlook the beauty of the small, ordinary graces that God weaves into our everyday lives.
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin” (Zechariah 4:10, NLT). This verse speaks to a truth I’ve seen in my own journey: Real growth and transformation often happen in the tiny, consistent steps, not just the dramatic breakthroughs.
Finding grace in the ordinary
For years, I thought joy would come only once I reached the big goals. Growing up under the guidance of nutritionists and doctors, I was conditioned to think that the number on the scale defined my success. But over time, I’ve realized that God often whispers through the little things — especially as I’ve embraced my journey with GLP-1. (Fun fact: GLP-1 medications mimic a natural hormone that controls blood sugar and appetite.)
It’s the way my body feels stronger after a workout, the deep satisfaction of fueling myself with foods that give me energy, or even the confidence of slipping into an outfit that makes me feel good in my skin. These are all glimpses of God’s provision and grace.
The same applies to our spiritual lives. It’s not only in mountaintop moments or answered prayers where we encounter God. It’s a quiet morning with coffee and scripture, a deep breath during a stressful day, or a friend’s kind words.
The gift of fall as a reminder
Fall is a perfect backdrop for appreciating the little things. God could have made every season look the same. Instead, fall arrives with a burst of color, crisp air, and cozy rhythms. Fall also mirrors the idea of transformation and preparation. Trees shed their leaves to prepare for winter, a reminder that letting go is part of God’s design. In the same way, when we slow down and notice the simple blessings of this season, we prepare our hearts for gratitude and renewal.
Personally, fall has become my favorite time to reset. Long walks in the cooler air remind me to appreciate the strength in my legs. The shorter days remind me that the holidays are coming. Layering cozy outfits has helped me find joy in self-expression.
Gratitude as a discipline
The Bible repeatedly calls us to express gratitude. Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Thanksgiving isn’t meant to be an afterthought — it’s a posture of the heart.
Gratitude for the little things pulls us out of anxiety and comparison and helps us see what God has already given. When I notice and thank Him for simple joys — an extra glass of water I managed to drink, the courage to try a new fitness class (have you tried Lagree Pilates at Core + Co?), or the laughter of co-workers, friends, or family — I feel lighter, calmer, and more rooted in Him.
Why the little things matter
This doesn’t mean lowering your standards or giving up on big dreams. It means recognizing that the journey is just as sacred as the destination. The daily choices we make, the habits we form, the ways we care for our bodies and souls — these build a foundation for lasting transformation.
This fall, pause and notice. Thank God for the cup of cider warming your hands, for the strength to take a morning walk, for the laughter of friends gathered around a fire, or even for the way your favorite jeans finally fit just right. These things are not “extra” — they are evidence of a God who cares about every detail.
When we train our hearts to notice and appreciate the little things, we not only grow in gratitude but also reflect God’s light more fully to the world. Let’s rejoice in the little blessings — because in God’s kingdom, the little things are often the most meaningful.
Nicole Brown, the creative force behind Lelia’s Southern Charm, channels her passion for fashion into inspiring content, sharing her latest finds, Pinterest-worthy outfits, and local favorites. When not curating her digital closet, she’s exploring new destinations and cultivating a community that celebrates finding the joy in the everyday! Find her at LeliasSouthernCharm.com, @leliassoutherncharm on Instagram or TikTok, and Lelia’s Southern Charm on Facebook and Pinterest.