In my continuing exploration of spiritual one-liners, today’s verse comes from Alma’s instruction to his son Helaman: “By small and simple things are great things brought to pass” (Alma 37:6). This principle perfectly captures how spiritual growth often works.
What strikes me most about this verse is the word “simple.” We sometimes overcomplicate our spiritual lives, thinking we need grand gestures or dramatic experiences to grow closer to God. But Alma teaches that it’s actually the small, consistent actions that lead to the greatest spiritual outcomes.
Think about how this works in nature: A mighty oak grows from a tiny acorn through consistent, daily growth. Similarly, our testimonies grow through small but steady spiritual nourishment. Each morning prayer, each verse of scripture studied, each moment of quiet reflection—these simple acts compound over time to produce remarkable spiritual strength.
This reminds me of Helaman’s teaching about building our foundation upon Christ through daily discipleship: “Remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation” (Helaman 5:12). This foundation isn’t built in a day—it’s constructed through countless small choices and consistent habits.
I testify that as we embrace these “small and simple things,” making them part of our daily routine, we’ll see Alma’s promise fulfilled in our lives. Great spiritual things will indeed come to pass.
Elder Linder 