The power of good ripples is like tossing a pebble into a quiet pond. First, the entry of the pebble creates a “plunk.” As the water receives the pebble, it leaps up with a splash of welcome.

Then the ripple begins! It’s beautiful to watch from the side. Artful, smooth, concentric circles roll outward. Interestingly, their art continues to “tell” about the pebble. Finally, the ripples reach the edge of the water and fade into the bank. Circle by circle becomes still – and once again, you see your own reflection in the pond canvas.

Thankfully, good ripples still happen in life. First, there’s a start – the plunk. Then, the power of good – ripples outward. Considering the upheaval and confused state of our world, wouldn’t you agree you should adopt good ripples on a personal level?

Let’s Tear Into – The Power Of Good Ripples

We always explore four categories in Scripture dissection:

1. What Does It Say?
2. What Does It Mean?
3. Make It Personal.
4. Make A Commitment.

 

1. What Does It Say?

Here are two Scriptures we’ll explore to show the power of good ripples.

Scripture #1 – ” . . . it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God . . . But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps.” (1 Pet. 2:19-21 – excerpts)

 

That’s what those verses say.

2. What Does It Mean?

Good things rarely happen devoid of struggle and trouble. Frankly, the effects of good ripples in the pond of life are powerful and continue till they reach the end of their course. Essentially, good just keeps rippling out to others. Interestingly, this process happens even when you suffer as you pursue the good God lays on your heart.

Actually, this ripple effect is a direct result of your faith and obedience to God. In other words, being increasingly like Jesus connects you to the power of good that ripples into the world.

Now, let’s look at today’s Scriptures and interact with them to discover what they mean.

Scripture #1 – 

” . . . it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God . . . But if you suffer for doing good and endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps.” (1 Pet. 2:19-21 – excerpts)

This passage is a reality check. Everyone suffers. However, it’s your choice if you suffer for doing good or for doing wrong. (BTW, the power of evil ripples outward, too. So, choose well.)

Remarkably, the passage says you are called to suffer for doing good – like Christ suffered for you. In other words – He provides your example. Truly, Jesus started eternal ripples of good. Now, you have the same opportunity.

Key phrases:

• “Because they are conscious of God.” There’s unmatched good that ripples from your faith and obedience simply because you are aware God is with you. Afterall, you know He will bless your obedience beyond what you can imagine. (Eph. 3:20) This is a good ripple.
• “This is commendable before God.” Be assured your faithfulness is deeply pleasing to God. He notices your desire to please Him and do good. Faithfulness creates good ripples.
• To this you were called. Incredibly, a portion of your purpose is to suffer for good and endure, ensuring good ripples continue forward. Perseverance creates good ripples.
• You should follow in His steps. Simply put? Do whatever Jesus does. Pursue eternal ripples.

 

Interestingly, the lives of those who do good are often scarred with severe trial. People who suffer – yet are aware God’s love, power, and intimate involvement is present – often suffer unjustly. Why? Because they are serving God’s righteous agenda. Invariably, the enemy targets this.

Notably, suffering for good is commendable. Particularly when your focus is on God’s plan.

 

To care about God’s plan more than your own means you are willing to be like Christ. Remember, He set aside His glory and became poor. Triumphantly, Christ ultimately suffered on the cross and set the pattern – the power of good ripples. 

Likewise, when you pattern your life after Jesus, you introduce ripples of good, particularly when suffering for eternal principles.

Incidentally, as you live in this pattern, your righteousness shines brightly to encourage others when they suffer. 

That’s what those verses mean.

3. Make It Personal

Practical steps help you connect with the power of good ripples. Subsequently, good continues to ripple outward long afterward.

Helpful Steps – Power Of Good Ripples

1. First, completely yield to the Lord. Surrender to God helps you find yourself. Afterall, Jesus said, “Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for My sake will find it.” (Mt. 10:39) Subsequently, this means give up your rights, wishes, preferences, and dreams – just so you can have more of Jesus.

Essentially, living sacrifice (Rom. 12:1) – a contradictory term – beautifully expresses what a Christian is. Actually, you are more alive than ever through Christ, even as you die to self and live for Him. Remarkably, this “dying to self” starts ripples of good.

 2. Second, invite God’s transformation continually. Importantly, this is not motivated from feelings, but rather from love for God. Consequently, make decisions that represent Jesus’ character and God’s interests. In other words, “consider [your life] a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus . . .” (Phil. 3:8-11) Subsequently, this establishes good ripples that extend through time.

 3. Third, make steps one and two practical at every level of your life. (Review #1 and #2) Basically, make it real. Incidentally, testing your character proves you are authentic during times of difficulty, suffering, conflict, frustration, challenge, and loss. So, be practical. Plus, stand firm to enable ripples of good.

 4. Four, be sincere and earnest in everything you do. Additionally, pray for growth each day. Ask Jesus to give you more of Himself. In this way, you embrace God’s purpose of good ripples through your life. Interestingly, this step empowers on-going good because it reinforces Christ’s character in you. Plus, others see Jesus through you.

 5. Fifth, practice resolve to finish well. Realistically, refuse the temptation to slack off in doing good. Over time, you’ll notice changes in your heart. Strength. Confidence. Eagerness to do good.

 

These Steps Create Influence

Set reminders in your planner or device to carry out these helpful steps. Regularly review them to keep them front-of-mind.

With these steps in place, you’ll find influence increasing. Not only will you experience bountiful supply where you used to have a desert in your own soul. There will also be overflow for others. Yes, ripples of good.

Remarkably, these steps also give you a credible testimony. So, be faithful as God brings others into your life. Even in times of suffering. Let God bless others through you.

Summary of the steps:

1. First, completely yield to the Lord.
2. Second, invite God’s transformation continually.
3. Third, make steps one and two practical at every level of your life.
4. Four, be sincere and earnest in everything you do.
5. Fifth, practice resolve to finish well.

 

This is how you make today’s Scriptures personal.  The power of good ripples.

Now, back to the fourth section –

4. Make A Commitment – Application Thoughts And Questions

1. First, let’s review the steps:
   • • First, completely yield to the Lord.
     • Second, invite God’s transformation continually.
     • Third, make these steps practical at every level of your life.
     • Fourth, be sincere and earnest as you grow.
     • Fifth, practice resolve.
2. Consider some “P’s.” Interestingly, these “P’s” help you carry out the previous steps successfully:
   1. • Plunk! Don’t be afraid to fall into God. This always starts good ripples.
      • Pray over these steps.
      • Ponder (meditate) how to implement them effectively each day.
      • Practice them.
      • Partner with God to accomplish His agenda.
      • Protect good ripples.
3. What will you do to implement these steps in your life? 
4. Will you resolve to practice them?
5. How can you bless others with good ripples today?
6. Did you know you have the power of good ripples?

 

REMEMBER: What you practice is what you become. So, go after the power of good ripples.

 

* Portions of this content come from our book – e-Pistles For An i-Generation: Relevant In A Digital Age – a devotional book that takes you through 1 and 2 Corinthians. You’ll find practical action points that help you know God better and nurture personal growth. You can find this book in our bookstore: www.aliveandactivelife.org/store.

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