The Cost of Neglecting the Little Things - Encouragement for Today - April 17, 2026

April 17, 2026

The Cost of Neglecting the Little Things
GRACE VALENTINE

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“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.” Hebrews 12:1a (NIV) 

A few years ago, I bought a jewelry stand that has the perfect spots for earrings, bracelets, and necklaces. Everything has a place. Everything stays organized.

There’s just one problem: I don’t use it.

I come home after work and drop my necklace at the bottom of the stand instead of hanging it where it belongs. Then a few mornings later, I’ll reach for that same necklace — and it’s completely tangled with three others I tossed there too.

It isn’t purposeful. It’s neglectful of what’s right in front of me.

I’ve noticed this is also how sin works. Hebrews 12:1 reminds us to “throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles” — because sin often starts small. Subtle. Justifiable to the world.

It begins with a jealous thought about a friend that I don’t confess to Jesus. That thought slowly shapes how I speak to her, how I speak about her, and how I see myself.

It starts with gossip at brunch — just one comment. And it’s true, I tell myself. But that comment becomes destructive both to someone else and my own heart.

It starts with a bad habit I allow to linger. Before I know it, I’m emotionally and physically drained, numbing my feelings instead of dealing with them.

When I ignore Jesus, neglect time with Him, and carry my feelings and worries on my own, I entangle my life with anxiety, drama, and thoughts that were never from Him. There’s really no such thing as “one little sin” because every sin you and I allow becomes another knot in our lives.

That’s why Hebrews 12:1-2 gives us clear direction:

1. If it’s sin, throw it off. Don’t excuse, justify, or minimize because it’s been a hard season. Don’t entertain what Jesus calls us to release.
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3. Fix our eyes on Jesus. He is “the pioneer and perfecter of faith” (Hebrews 12:2, NIV). We're imperfect on our own, but Jesus changes desires. He reshapes habits. We all need to talk to Jesus, read His Word, confess to Christian community that will hold us accountable, and walk closely with our Perfector.

4. 
   

5. Remember that unconfessed sin never stays contained. A life lived apart from Jesus will always quietly entangle us. Sin spreads, affecting our thoughts, relationships, peace, and joy. But freedom begins the moment we step into the light.

   
   

The more of Jesus we have in our lives, the less room there is for sin, chaos, and entanglement. Our job is to place our worries, trials, hurts, and temptations into His hands, throwing our burdens onto our strong God and taking the time to pray and sit with His Word.

Jesus is right in front of us, ready to help. Will we go to Him? Or will we brush past His invitation and slowly entangle ourselves in things He was always willing to carry for us?

Jesus, thank You for being near — even when I’ve neglected You. Forgive me for carrying what You are willing to hold. Today I bring my tangled thoughts, hidden sins, worries, and distractions into Your light. Help me fix my eyes on You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

OUR FAVORITE THINGS

Therapy & Theology with Lysa TerKeurst exists to help you work through what you walk through. Season 12, “Fight for Your Family,” is underway, and each episode will help you do just that. Whether you watch on YouTube or listen to the podcast while you drive, this season will equip you with biblical wisdom and therapeutic practices to live with and love the most important people in your life more intentionally. Start listening now!

ENGAGE

For more encouragement from Grace Valentine, follow her on Instagram @thegracevalentine. You can also learn more about Grace and her books, including the 90-day devotional To the Girl Looking for More, here!

FOR DEEPER STUDY

John 3:30, “He must become greater; I must become less” (NIV).

In what areas of your life have you been relying on your own strength, control, or understanding instead of inviting Jesus in? How might intentional prayer, confession, and time in His Word help untangle the stress, habits, or sins you’ve been carrying?

What would it look like this week to choose less of you and more of Jesus? Share with us in the comments!

© 2026 by Grace Valentine. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries
P.O. Box 3189
Matthews, NC 28106
www.Proverbs31.org