The Ripple Effect of Generosity “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Luke 6:38) When we think about the impact of our generosity, it's easy to focus only on the person directly receiving our gift or act of kindness. However, God’s way of working is so much broader and deeper than what we can initially see. Every generous act, no matter how small it may seem, sends ripples outward, touching lives far beyond the first recipient, much like a stone tossed into still water creates widening circles that move beyond the point of impact. One encouraging aspect of generosity is that it is contagious. When we step out to care for someone else—whether with our resources, our time, or our talents—we often inspire others to do the same. Our actions can remind others of God’s love and faithfulness, and sometimes, our willingness to help becomes an invitation for a whole community to get involved. This multiplying effect means that what starts as a single act of giving can quickly grow into a wave of kindness, encouragement, and support that impacts many people. Scripture is full of examples of this “ripple effect.” One person’s generosity often leads to unexpected blessings for others. In John 6, the boy who shared his small lunch witnessed Jesus multiply it to feed thousands. His simple act of sharing didn’t just satisfy his own hunger or that of a couple of friends. Through Jesus, his gift touched the lives of an entire crowd, with food to spare. God specializes in using what we give—even when it feels small or inadequate—and blessing it far beyond our expectations. As we consider the ripple effect of generosity, it’s important to remember that the ultimate results may never be fully seen in this lifetime. Sometimes, our kindness plants seeds that will bear fruit in ways we may never know. We can trust that God takes what we offer, multiplies it, and uses it to write stories of hope, healing, and transformation. This week, reflect on ways your acts of generosity might set new ripples in motion. Even the smallest acts matter. Ask God to help you see the wider impact of your generosity and to trust Him to use your gifts to reach far beyond yourself.  By Jim Connell Jim is the founder of Lexington Rescue Mission, and authors JesusIsLordBlog.com, FaithAnswersPress.net, and FAQs of Faith (a mobile app)

Generosity Beyond Money “Then Peter said, ‘Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.’” (Acts 3:6) Most of us, when we hear the word “generosity,” immediately think of financial giving or charitable donations. But when we look at the teachings and example of Jesus, it becomes clear that generosity is about far more than money—it’s a posture of the heart that touches every area of our lives. In fact, some of the greatest gifts we can give may not cost us a cent, but they can make a world of difference to those around us. Consider the way Jesus gave his time to people who were overlooked or despised by society, like Zacchaeus, the tax collector, or the woman at the well. He listened to their stories, offered compassion, and spoke words of hope. He allowed interruptions to become opportunities for ministry, showing that our time and presence can be powerful acts of generosity. When we are willing to really see and value others, to give them our attention and care, we mirror the heart of Jesus in everyday moments. Generosity can also be expressed through acts of service. When we help a neighbor with chores, deliver a meal to someone who is sick, or volunteer our skills and talents for the benefit of others, we are living out Christ-like generosity. Sometimes the most significant gifts are a listening ear, a word of encouragement, or a willingness to carry someone’s burden through prayer or practical support. In Galatians 6:2, Paul calls us to “bear one another’s burdens,” a command that speaks to the power of generous friendship and community. Words, too, can be a gift. A thoughtful note, a sincere compliment, or a prayer offered in faith can lift someone’s spirits and renew their strength. In a world that often leaves people feeling unseen or unappreciated, our words can bring healing and hope. As you reflect today, ask God to open your eyes to the many ways you can be generous, beyond simply opening your wallet. Perhaps He will prompt you to invest your time in someone who is lonely, to offer your abilities where there’s a need, or to share encouraging words with those who are discouraged. True generosity flows from a heart shaped by God’s love and is limited only by our willingness to respond. May we be known as people who give freely and joyfully—not just financially, but in every part of our lives.  By Jim Connell Jim is the founder of Lexington Rescue Mission, and authors JesusIsLordBlog.com, FaithAnswersPress.net, and FAQs of Faith (a mobile app)

The Heart of Generosity “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:6–7) Generosity is not measured by how much we give, but by the spirit in which we give. The apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 9:6–7 that giving starts in the heart. It’s not simply about meeting obligations, responding to guilt, or trying to impress others. Instead, it is about joyfully taking part in God’s work and sincerely trusting Him to provide. When we hold too tightly to what we have and give reluctantly, we’re often driven by a fear of lack or a desire for control. But when we open our hands to give freely, we’re acknowledging a powerful truth: everything we have is a gift from God, and ultimately, it all belongs to Him. Cheerful giving flows from our relationship with God—rooted in deep gratitude for what He has done and a lasting trust in His care for us. God delights in generous hearts because they reflect His very nature. God, in His limitless love, held nothing back from us—He gave His very best, His own Son, with complete willingness and joy. When we choose to live generously, we become mirrors of His character in a world that often encourages us to hold tightly to what we have. In this way, generosity becomes far more than a financial transaction; it becomes a spiritual posture and an act of worship that declares, “God, I trust You more than my possessions or my plans.” Living with a heart of generosity also transforms the way we experience God’s blessings. The harvest Paul writes about is not always material. Sometimes, our generosity brings a harvest of peace, fulfillment, or deeper intimacy with God and others. We may receive relational blessings, see communities strengthened, or experience a sense of joy and freedom that only comes from giving. It also opens the door for God to do more through us than we could ask or imagine—multiplying both the benefits to others and the growth in our own hearts. Take a moment today to reflect on what motivates your giving. Do you share out of routine, duty, or the hope of receiving something in return? Or is your generosity a natural overflow of gratitude and trust in the One who has given you everything? Ask God to align your heart with His, so that your giving would be marked by freedom, joy, and a desire to participate in His redemptive work in the world. By Jim Connell  Jim is the founder of Lexington Rescue Mission, and authors JesusIsLordBlog.com, FaithAnswersPress.net, and FAQs of Faith (a mobile app)

“Indeed, I took all this to heart and explained it all: The righteous, the wise, and their works are in God’s hands. People don’t know whether to expect love or hate. Everything lies ahead of them.” (Ecclesiastes 9:1) If you were leaving for a trip this weekend, you would plan for it. The question would then be when you would plan for it. I think everyone falls into one of three groups: The first group stopped reading this devotion once they saw that the trip is this weekend and began planning the trip. They’ll come back when the trip is planned. The second group will plan it this week, since the trip isn’t until this weekend. The third group will plan it during the trip. Is there a right or wrong way? Not really. Everyone is different. We don’t know what will happen on the trip, so some adjustments are needed. But we actually need to get to the destination, so some up-front planning is needed as well. For a while, my personal schedule was very structured. I started and ended work at the same time and usually assisted with the same family activity each night of the week. The big change each week was which kid I was caring for on Tuesday nights. Now, things are changing quite a bit. Our son can drive and no longer attends Boy Scouts as often now that he has finished his Eagle Scout rank. I have to travel for work sometimes. My father is in a nursing home, and I visit him some evenings. And we all know that traffic has gotten much worse in Lexington. It was easy for me to think I was in control of my schedule. But I was never in control at all. I had developed a routine around my family and their needs. I now have to adjust more often. We can make all sorts of plans and schedules. But God is in control. “A person’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9) By Jason Grace Jason is a software engineering manager. He and his wife, Karen, have two children and have been active members at Immanuel for over 23 years. His service includes roles in the deacon ministry, children's ministry, technical team, financial coaching, and leading Bible studies. He loves traveling with his wife and family throughout the US.

In five days, most of us will consume a lot of turkey, mashed potatoes, and pie in the name of gratitude. Thanksgiving is traditionally a celebration feast with family and friends around that theme of gratitude. After all, “giving thanks” is right there in the title. As believers, we are commanded to give thanks continually. But even if the emphasis on gratitude isn’t a drastic shift for us, it’s still good to evaluate our hearts and see where we might need some growth. Here are a few practices I’m leaning into this week… 1. Thank Him for the good. “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:17) If it's in your life and it’s good, it’s from God. Every person, every provision, every beautiful thing, your experience of creation, every moment of joy and laughter are gifts from the Father. Loved ones, jobs, shelter, warmth, and food on the table… each one should spark thankfulness in our hearts. 2. Thank Him for the hard. “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) Some seasons are harder than others. Gratitude isn’t always the most dominant quality of our hearts. I think about Paul, pleading with God to remove the “thorn” in his flesh. He referred to it as a “messenger of Satan.” Those are strong words for a guy who was stoned, shipwrecked, and regularly chased out of towns. But the thorn remained. God said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) Gratitude can sometimes feel like a tall order. But as believers, we can (and must) be grateful that His grace is sufficient for us, that his strength is at its best when we are weak. With Christ, our suffering is never for nothing. 3. Thank Him for who He is. “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” (Psalm 136:1) “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” Colossians 2:6-7 If we had nothing else but Him, it should be enough to burst our hearts with gratitude. Our Maker, our Father, our Savior. I pray your Thanksgiving holiday is filled with joy and gratitude. Perhaps these reminders will help orient your week toward a thankful heart, as they are mine. One last reminder: don’t forget to thaw out that turkey. By Lori Barkley Lori and her husband Jim attend the Armstrong Mill campus where she serves as a deacon. They have two daughters in college, Brynn and Katy.

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