It’s been awhile since I’ve thought of the ripple effect. Toss a pebble, cause a ripple. Sounds simple, so why even stop to think about it?
Lately I’ve noticed how a small pebble tossed can cause a ripple of either good or bad all around it. Often the ripple of the small pebble, goes far beyond what was ever intended. You see, in each of our lives there is a “ripple effect”. It applies to the good and positive, as well as it does to the negative. Just as real as a pebble tossed into a pond, the things we say and the attitudes we carry around, cause a ripple effect. Is your ripple effect depositing good into the lives of those who know you? Or, is your ripple effect causing negativity, dissension and chaos?
We often let things slip unchecked. We excuse ourselves by justifying that everyone goes unchecked from time to time. We pay little attention to the ripple effect it may have on those around us. But,the ripple effect of our words and attitudes can cause a string of hurt in the wake of life.
How can we turn the negative ripple around? First we must stop and recognize that our words and attitudes may have affected others. After acknowledging this, we ask God to forgive us for any negative that we have brought to the table in our relationships. After receiving his forgiveness, we move forward trying something new…a positive pebble thrown into the pond.
One kind word. One small act of kindness. One thank you note.
One apology. One admittance of our wrong. One sincere word of encouragement.
Those who receive such kindness begin to feel restored in hope. They begin to feel part of the picture, not so invisible. They turn around and pass on a kind word, a note of thanks, or a sincere apology… to someone in their world. Ripple.
One life surrendered to Christ looks like one ordinary life. But to the whole next generation, this one ordinary life has extraordinary significance. Ripple.
One little act. One heartfelt prayer. One move towards another person in love.
Start the ripple.
Toss your pebble today and make sure it’s positive, loving, uplifting and caring.
Start a ripple of God’s love.
What seems small today can have great impact…either for the good or the bad.
Put on the love of Christ, dismissing the negative spin of the emotions and hurts. Start a ripple of love.
“So chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline…quick to forgive an offense. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.” Colossians 3 The Message
How can this apply to YOUR life today?
