Building Momentum: Sustaining the Ripple Effect

"Team communication and harmony with Ephesians 4:31-32"


“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”

—1 Corinthians 10:31 (ESV)


Think about the ripple effect: a single pebble dropped into a lake creates waves that expand far beyond the initial impact. One small action, taken with intention, can set off a series of events that reach farther than we could imagine. When we seek to live for God’s glory, we create a spiritual ripple effect that touches lives beyond our sight. Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians encourage us to take this to heart:
“whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Every moment, no matter how ordinary, holds the potential to spark a movement of grace and love, growing in ways we may never fully see.

Building momentum in our faith doesn’t require grand or attention-grabbing actions. Instead, it’s in the steady, intentional, and often unseen moments of living faithfully that we build a lasting impact. Each time we show kindness, offer a word of encouragement, or stand firm in our values, we are setting off ripples that can strengthen, inspire, and uplift others. The little choices we make every day — like choosing patience, extending forgiveness, or giving generously — all contribute to the ripple effect, creating momentum for God’s glory.

It’s easy to wonder if our small actions make a difference. We may feel that acts of kindness go unnoticed or that our efforts to live faithfully aren’t impacting anyone. But the beauty of a ripple is that it doesn’t need to be seen to exist. God works through our lives in ways that go beyond our understanding, often taking those small, hidden acts of faith and using them to reach others in ways we may never fully realize. Every action done with a heart for God creates a momentum that He carries forward, touching lives, building hope, and spreading His love in countless ways.

Jesus’s life offers us a perfect model for how to build this kind of momentum. He didn’t seek recognition for His acts; instead, He moved with compassion, meeting the needs of those around Him, creating ripples of love that continue to this day. From feeding thousands with a few loaves and fish to speaking with those who felt overlooked, Jesus created a lasting legacy through actions both big and small. He knew that every choice, no matter how seemingly insignificant, was an opportunity to honor God and serve others. When we follow His example, our lives, too, become a series of ripples that extend God’s love into the world.

 

Take Action


Today, challenge yourself to make a small, intentional choice for God’s glory. Think of a simple way to serve someone, offer encouragement, or express gratitude. It might be as simple as sending a thoughtful message to a friend, being patient in a difficult moment, or praying for someone in need. When you choose these actions with the intention of honoring God, you’re creating ripples that go far beyond that single act.

Consider setting up a “ripple journal” to keep track of moments when you’ve intentionally chosen to glorify God in small ways. Write down your daily actions and the thoughts or prayers that guided you. Over time, you may find yourself more aware of the impact you’re creating, realizing that each small step contributes to a much larger journey of faith and purpose.

Another powerful way to sustain momentum is by building habits around these small acts. Make a plan to reach out to someone every day, to find one thing to be grateful for, or to reflect each evening on how you honored God that day. The consistency of these actions builds momentum, not just in your life, but in the lives of those around you, as you model a life lived intentionally for God’s glory.


Prayer


Heavenly Father,


Thank You for the opportunity to be a part of Your work in this world. I am grateful that You use even the smallest actions to accomplish Your purpose. Teach me to live each day with an awareness of the ripple effect I can create for Your kingdom. Help me to recognize that every choice — no matter how routine or simple — has the power to honor You and inspire others.

Fill my heart with a desire to serve and glorify You, to see opportunities for kindness, love, and grace in the ordinary moments of life. Give me the courage to act faithfully, even when I can’t see the full impact of my actions. Let me trust that You are carrying my efforts forward, reaching lives and hearts that I may never know. Use me, Lord, as a vessel for Your love, grace, and encouragement. Let my life reflect Your goodness and create a lasting ripple effect that reaches farther than I could ever imagine.

Help me to sustain this momentum, Lord. Give me the strength to continue when I feel discouraged, to find joy in serving others, and to remain faithful in the small things. May each word, action, and choice I make draw others closer to You and bring glory to Your name. Thank You, Father, for entrusting me with the opportunity to create ripples that reflect Your love and grace.

In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Every small action we take for God’s glory becomes part of a much larger ripple effect, moving through lives and hearts, carrying God’s love into the world. Let’s keep building that momentum together.

– Dan Greer

For more uplifting devotionals and prayers, visit God First Life. 

Dan Greer