Once I dreamed of standing before thousands of people and sharing my thoughts with them. They would be in awe of my wisdom and would then change their lives to my way of thinking. My platform for ministry would be huge. I would influence world leaders, celebrities, and politicians through my selfless leadership, in-depth spiritual knowledge, and charisma. I was going to change the world.

Now I lead a Church of a couple of hundred people, write a blog that about 65 people read each day and I am a father of four. My circle of influence is far smaller than I dreamed. I still haven’t finished my book, and when I do, I am sure it will not be a best seller. I receive no calls to speak at conferences or big events anymore. I am not a rising start among the young ministers in our brotherhood of Churches. Instead, I am a lamp which keeps shining a tiny light in my small community.

One day I looked in the mirror and made a realization. I am not going to change the world.

What do you do when you come to this moment in your life? I once read the quote that says many men have planned to build a tower into the stars only to settle on building a shed in their backyard. Grand dreams sometimes give way to simple realities. One day I realized I could no longer change the world, but I could make an impact in MY world.

I can be the best husband I can be with God’s help. I can love my wife and lead her in the name of Jesus. I can strive to raise Godly children who will have a positive impact on their world. I may not preach to thousands, but those who show up to hear me will get my very best. I may not write for millions to read, but I will strive to help those in their faith who do read.

God gave me a smaller circle of influence, but I still have areas where I can make an impact for God. I do have a circle, and I will not take it for granted. Just because you do not lead a massive ministry with global influence does not make your life is worthless. There are still lives to touch, and they are the ones that matter.