Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned.

The saying contrasts action with intention: tangible, even modest, efforts have more moral and practical value than ambitious plans that never materialize. It champions follow-through over aspiration, suggesting that effectiveness is measured by what is actually done rather than what is envisioned. The aphorism also implies a critique of procrastination and perfectionism—waiting for the “great” opportunity can become an excuse for inaction—while affirming that incremental, concrete deeds accumulate into real change. In a religious or ethical frame often associated with Peter Marshall’s public ministry, it can be read as a call to live one’s convictions in daily conduct rather than merely professing lofty ideals.