God in the Ordinary

Some days are forever etched in our memories.

The wedding day. The birth of a child. The phone call that changed everything. The day we got the job—or the one we lost it. Those days arrive with their own soundtrack of joy or tears, standing out like bright stars against the backdrop of our years.

But most days?

They’re quieter. The coffee brews, the laundry piles up, the emails keep coming, and we simply do the next thing. We move through the rhythm of the ordinary—get up, show up, do what needs doing, go to bed, repeat.

It’s tempting to think those days are less sacred somehow, as though God shows up for the milestones but leaves us to our own devices in the mundane. Yet Scripture gently reminds us otherwise:

“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24)

Notice it doesn’t say that day or the exciting day. It says this day—whatever today happens to hold. The truth is, if God called this day into existence and gave us breath to step into it, He will be faithful to sustain us through it.

Whether we’re celebrating or simply surviving, He’s already gone before us. He knows the coworker who drains us, the toddler who tests us, the unexpected bill that frustrates us. He knows the ache that lingers and the dream that still hasn’t come true. And He meets us there—in the dishes, in the diaper changes, in the deadlines—with quiet strength and holy presence.

I’ve learned that gladness doesn’t always feel like laughter. Sometimes it’s the calm assurance that God is near, even when nothing feels noteworthy. It’s the overflow of a heart that recognizes that none of our cries, our victories, or our trudging steps through daily life go unnoticed by our Creator.

When we begin to see each ordinary moment as infused with divine purpose, something shifts.

The morning commute becomes prayer time. The grocery line turns into a chance to smile at a weary soul. The small things—folding towels, sending a kind text, showing up again—become sacred acts of worship.

Every day, even the simplest one, becomes holy ground.

Because this day, right here, is the day the Lord has made.

And we can rejoice—not by forcing a grin or pushing through—but by resting in the truth that He has already prepared us for it. Whatever this day brings, He is in it, working all things together for our good and His glory.

FOR FURTHER THOUGHT

• What’s one “ordinary” part of your day that you could begin to view as sacred time with God?

• When have you experienced God’s quiet faithfulness in the middle of routine or hardship?

• Try starting each morning this week by saying aloud, “This is the day the Lord has made.” Then pause. Breathe. Ask God to show you how to rejoice in it—not through striving, but through resting in His presence.

Sometimes, when life feels uncertain or simply ordinary, the best thing we can do is exactly what’s in front of us. Elisabeth Elliot captured this truth beautifully in her poem “Do the Next Thing.” Let her words be a gentle reminder that faithful steps—one after another—are often the most powerful expressions of trust.

Do the Next Thing

by Elisabeth Elliot

"At an old English parsonage down by the sea

There came in the twilight a message to me;

Its quaint Saxon legend deeply engraven

Hath, it seems to me, teaching from Heaven.

And all through the hours the quiet words ring,

Like a low inspiration—Do the next thing.

Many a questioning, many a fear,

Many a doubt hath its quieting here.

Moment by moment, let down from Heaven,

Time, opportunity, guidance are given.

Fear not tomorrows, child of the King—

Trust them with Jesus, Do the next thing.

Do it immediately; do it with prayer;

Do it reliantly, casting all care;

Do it with reverence, tracing His hand

Who placed it before thee with earnest command.

Stayed on omnipotence, safe 'neath His wing,

Leave all resultings, Do the next thing.

Looking for Jesus, ever serener,

(Working or suffering) be thy demeanor.

In His dear presence, the rest of His calm,

The light of His countenance, be thy psalm.

Strong in His faithfulness, praise and sing—

Then, as He beckons thee, Do the next thing.”

PRAYER

Lord, thank you for allowing me to draw breath today. And since You did, I can have full confidence You will fully sustain me in whatever this day may bring. Since You are the God of the Ordinary and the extraordinary, You choose to hold my hand and walk me through either way. Praise You for Your faithfulness and goodness, Papa! Should I forget to see Your hand, help me to pause, reflect, and remember these important truths so I, too, can do the next thing. I love You, Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen.

ABOUT BARB LOWNSBURY

Barb is a speaker, author, and entrepreneur. She holds Bachelor's Degrees in International History and Education, as well as a Master’s Degree in Education. Barb has spoken at conferences and taught classes throughout the U.S. on topics including faith, relationships, leadership, and courage through trials. Her book, Using What’s Broken to Boldly Shine, is a powerful read on transformation through adversity. Her blog focuses on providing people with everyday encouragement and strength. Barb serves as the Executive Director for The Dented Fender Ministry and runs a successful real estate and development company. She and her husband currently reside in Dayton, Ohio.

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