Ripple Effect

The world calls it a "random act of kindness," I call it the ripple effect. And I don't see it at all as random. God is love (1 John 4:16) and the giver of all good gifts (Romans 8:32, James 1:17). Being created in His image (Genesis 1:27), we are designed to love Him and love our neighbor (Matthew 22:37-39). God gives us the need to love Him and the desire to do good for our brothers and sisters in the world as an effect of that initial love (1 John 4:19).

In my years of ministry, I've seen it time and time again, where a woman is encouraged by what has been revealed to her in God's Word. She, in turn, is encouraged by another to share her story and that brings forth the "ripple effect" of others realizing that God is working in their lives in a similar way. Then they are encouraged to share their story and invest in the life of another. And another. And another. Who started this? God.

In today's verse of thanks, Paul continues to teach on sowing generously or being a "cheerful giver that God loves" (2 Corinthians 9:7). He points us to the ultimate wave of our obedience in following God's lead in casting the first pebble or sharing what He has given us in the first place.

"This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God." 2 Corinthians 9:12

Paul goes on to say in vs. 13, "Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else." The "ripple effect" of generous giving on the part of the Corinthians will extend beyond Jerusalem to the church as a whole, causing widespread prayer and praise to be offered to God. That's the ultimate goal of the ripple effect. God starts the ripple in the heart and circumstances of an individual, they obediently follow His will, His lead, and the ripples turn into waves of thanksgiving back to Him.

"It's sad that in a world of billions, people can still feel isolated and alone. Sometimes all it takes to brighten up someone's day is a smile or kind word, or the generous actions of a complete stranger. Small things, the tiny details, these are the things that matter in life - the little glint in the eye, curve of a lip, nod of a head, wave of a hand - such minuscule movements have huge ripple effects." - Shaun Hick

Wouldn't it be a great thing to know that by your obedient work for the Lord a multitude of praises go back up to Him in the heavenlies? He knows full well where the ripples started on earth - He will surly credit this to your account that is eternally secure (Matthew 6:20)!

Show your thanks to God for His goodness in your life by sharing it with others, and watch as the ripple effect turns into a wave of praise to God!

"And be thankful." Colossians 3:15b