The expression “pay it forward” describes the repayment of a good deed to someone other than the original benefactor.
The idea dates back centuries of time, even though the phrase was coined in the early part of the twentieth century. We see an application by people ranging from someone paying for the car behind them at a drive-through service to numerous physical blessings provided by generous donors who desire to better the lives of others.
The concept has a spiritual connection with biblical teaching in the book of Hebrews. The author urges readers to remember the person who led them and “considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith” (He. 13:7).
The emphasis relates to the word of God and how someone took the time to lead us to Christ. No greater act of paying something forward occurs than by duplicating the conduct of this person.
When we imitate such action, we are paying forward the spiritual blessings offered in Christ.
Naturally, by our leading others in this activity, we multiply the efforts by encouraging those who are led to emulate the same conduct.