Today I had the opportunity to sit with a friend, a new and beautiful friend that God has placed in my life. As we sat and shared, cried and laughed, there was a phrase that came out a few times – Full Circle. To begin at one point and go around and then come right back to that same point. In our conversation the reference to full circle was a rewarding one, a blessing as oppose to one where you’re spinning in circles. It began with obedience to do a task that you knew in your heart needed to be done, even if it was a little hard or a little uncomfortable. As that one task was completed, it rippled to another task and involved others. That effect happened a few times till it came right back to the original person who began the task and in return was blessed, along with those blessed along the way. One gave not expecting, but in return was filled.

ONE GAVE NOT EXPECTING, BUT IN RETURN WAS FILLED…. How often do we give only to expect to receive in return? Or, we return because we were given to. That’s all good and well but to give and not expect in return is another level. A level that says I am content, I am good wherever I am at and with whatever I have. I may barely have enough that day but I will offer up what I have if the Lord calls upon me. It’s an unselfish outpouring of time, of encouragement, of talent, of food, or whatever is required that one is able and called upon to give. At times it may be a sacrifice, at times an offering, and at times an overflow of excess. No matter what it is or how it is given, when given with a humble heart and given unto the Lord in obedience the blessing will at one time or another come back full circle.

Full circle…a series of developments that lead back to the original source. As my friend and I spoke it was apparent that the circumstances that came full circle always included our Heavenly Father – what He began He finished. He finished in sweeter and more abundant ways than we could even dream possible.

His request – our obedience – His blessing

What is the Lord asking of you? What is he prompting on your heart? Are your listening? Are you acting in humble obedience or are you responding so that you may in turn receive? Think back to a blessing that you received, an unexpected blessing – can you trace it’s full circle? What was the Father’s request and how did your obedience play out?

ONE GAVE NOT EXPECTING, BUT IN RETURN WAS FILLED. What do you have to give? How can the Lord use you today?