Summary: This series is based on the book, "Do Hard Things" by Brett and Alex Harris. It is a 7 week series that challenges teenagers to step up from the low expectations that our culture has placed on them.

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men – Colossians 3:23

Illustration –

I. Small Things

A. What are small things?

1. The “stuff” that makes up our everyday life

2. It’s generally repetitive

B. Small things most often occur behind the closed doors of our homes, schools and churches

C. Small things often seem routine, insignificant, and pointless

II. Why are small things so difficult?

A. They don’t usually go away after you do them

B. They don’t seem very important

C. They don’t seem to make any difference

D. They don’t seem very glamorous

E. No one is watching

III. Five Ways we fail to do small hard things

A. Procrastination

1. I’ll do it later

B. Inconsistency

1. I do it every once in a while

C. Compromise

1. I’ll do it if….

D. Begrudging

1. I’ll do it if I have to

E. Cheating

1. I’ll kind of do it

IV. Why it’s important to do small hard things

A. Every action, no matter how small, is defining our future

1. The small things you develop into habits today define you will be tomorrow

2.

B. By doing small hard things, we gain, maintain and demonstrate strength

C. Every job we do with sincere effort and right attitude brings pleasure to God

Closing: The Story of the Vikings

Final Thought: Your actions at home, at school and elsewhere in your community can bring honor and glory to God if you are willing to throw yourself into them 100 percent just because they’re things He has given you to do.