‘Be generous, and someday you will be rewarded.’ Ecclesiastes 11:1 CEV
The Dead Sea has such high mineral concentrations that even non-swimmers can stay afloat in it. The only problem is the smell. Because it has no outlets, any fresh water that comes in quickly becomes contaminated. There’s an important Biblical principle at work here: ‘The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.’ (Proverbs 11:25 NLT) God never intended you to be a reservoir that just takes in, but a river of blessing that flows out to others.
The Bible says: ‘A farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.’ (2 Corinthians 9:6–8 NLT) So if you need a job, volunteer at a soup kitchen while you’re looking for work. If you’re praying for an increase in your business, pour your best into someone else’s business and ask God to prosper them.
Solomon writes, ‘Give generously, for your gifts will return to you later. Divide your gifts among many, for in the days ahead you yourself may need much help.’ (Ecclesiastes 11:1–2 TLB) Even if you don’t have a specific need right now, sow a seed of kindness anyway. God knows what the future holds, and one day when you need it most, it will come back to you as a harvest.
SoulFood: Is 49–52, John 7:25–32, Ps 123, Prov 29:1–3
The Word for Today is authored by Bob and Debby Gass and published under licence from UCB International Copyright 2024
