Dream Small: The Secret Power of the Ordinary Christian Life

In this vague manual, blogger Lewis (The Notorious Adventures of Nutt the Nefarious) contends that small actions can have big effects when serving God. The author emphasizes “the big, lasting value of things the world considers small, like a close relationship with God,” and encourages readers to renounce earthly concerns about status. Quoting Paul’s exhortation to “make it your ambition to lead a quiet life,” Lewis suggests that pursuing such “big dreams” as wealth, fame, and power lead one astray from God’s intentions and result in disappointment. He shares stories of people in his life who have found contentment by “dreaming small,” such as his grandfather, a Sears, Roebuck manager who weathered the decline of the retailer by placing his worth in his faith rather than his job. The author shares small ways readers can prioritize God: “A home with regular dinners and clean clothes can be a tangible, repetitive expression of God’s care and provision for his children.” However, it’s difficult to tell what some of the advice would mean in practice, such as the recommendation that readers “stop trying to be the author of your own story.” Additionally, the extended discussions likening humans to “specks of dust” in God’s cosmic drama grow tiresome. Good intentions don’t quite rescue this. (Sept.)