Ripple effect.

Have you ever thrown a rock into a pond? If so, you have seen the big splash and the ripples of water that followed. The bigger the rock … the bigger the effect!

While I can’t explain the science behind the “ripple effect,” I can shed a little light on the spiritual “ripple effect” of our actions. Everything we do, right or wrong, affects us and those closest to us.

In Joshua 7 we read a story of defeat, questioning, and judgment. The Israelite nation had been promised victory in every battle. Yet, they were defeated and run out of a city called Ai. After a humiliating loss Joshua cried out to God seeking an answer to the loss of life and unexpected defeat.

Nothing we do is done in isolation!

God’s response was blunt. “Get up! Why are you lying on your face like this?  Israel has sinned and broken my covenant! They have stolen some of the things that I commanded must be set apart for me“ (Joshua 7:10-11).

God takes sin seriously. In this story a man named Achan had taken items from the conquest of Jericho that God had reserved for himself. Achen’s action was like a rock thrown into a pond. His decision and the resulting ripple effect resulted in the death of 36 Israelite soldiers. Achan’s selfish actions cost him and his entire family their lives as well. Sin is costly.

Remember, a ripple effect works on both good and evil deeds. Paul explained it this way, “Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant“ (Galatians 6:7). If you sow seeds of goodness into your life, you will reap those blessings.

Be a blessing to those around you.

I encourage you to focus on things that please and honor God. Throw those stones into the pond of your life rather than sinful stones. Be a blessing!