PROVERBS 11:24-25
One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.
Its in our nature to be selfish and self centered. Observe any toddler, and before they can master walking and running, they have mastered the word “mine”. As we grow older we blend in some truth to make the selfishness less obvious: “Well, if I give something away, there might not be enough for me. I might need it later.” After a while we become more bold and take our selfish attitudes to a new level, “I’m going to take care of me first. If there’s any left over…I’ll think about sharing.”
But what’s forgotten is that God is the source of every blessing we have (James 1:17). If it wasn’t for His mercy, grace and generosity, we would have nothing. And this Proverb encourages us to be more like Him…generous. God takes this encouragement to a higher level by adding a “bonus” to generosity. Verse 24 states: “One gives freely, yet grows all the richer…” The same idea is presented in verse 25. “Whoever brings blessing will be enriched…”
So how can you take your generosity to a higher level? Look around at the people you know and the organizations of which you are a part…these are your neighbors. Is there something that your neighbor needs that’s “essential” to their lives at this point in time?
● Your gifts and talents
● Your time
● Encouragement
● Financial assistance
● A listening ear
● Help with a project
● Being kind…on a consistent basis
● Heartfelt prayer
● Godly wisdom
Make a decision to take your generosity to a higher level. As you do, God will take His generosity towards you to a higher level, so that you can have everything you need to do His good work (2 Corinthians 9:8).