The Ripple Effect

At any age it is fun to throw a stone in a pond and watch the ripples that are formed, spreading out further and further. A ripple is a small wave or a slight movement on the service of the water.

The ripple effect is the idea that our actions reverberate and have consequences that extend beyond their initial incident.

This is what I kept thinking about during my recent visit to the Philippines. Looking back over so many years, I felt amazed to see what God has done and is doing. There were so many lives that we were blessed to come in contact with years ago. I was able to meet many of these special people once again. It was astonishing to hear all that they are participating in and how their families are doing. God definitely blesses faithfulness. I was amazed to see the fruit of these lives who continue steadfast in their walk with God.

“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So, neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.” 1 Corinthians 3:6-7    

I realize that so much of what we did in missions was not because we strategized and planned everything out. We prayed and just followed Holy Spirit’s leading and stepped through the doors of opportunity that He opened to us. How thankful I am that we did!

None of us know how our actions and words will affect the lives of those we come in contact with daily. Holy Spirit prompts our words and actions. He nudges us sometimes to speak to someone or do something. We get involved in things we did not plan on, and God brings fruit in due season from our efforts.

I do not believe God is asking or expecting us to do more than He has given us to do but He is asking us to respond to Holy Spirit’s leading. When we do there will be a ripple effect. We may not see it right away. But be assured, there will be ripples!

“And God is able to make every grace overflow to you, so that in every way, always having everything you need, you may excel in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:8

I encourage you to take the time to reflect upon your life and look for the ripples.
You may be surprised to see more than you realize!