Give, Receive, Overflow

One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Proverbs 11:24-25

I love the book of Proverbs.  It was the first book of the Bible I was drawn to in my youth.  Back then I saw snippets of truth and wisdom, now I see a crossroad of the very principles God has woven throughout the Bible for excellent relationships with Him, with others and with myself.  The concept of receiving, giving and overflowing may evoke thoughts of possessions and money, but the essence of each is serving God and others with a faithful and willing heart.

There seems to be a common fantasy among those who play the lottery.  On that winning day they will become generous citizens of the world, doling out mortgage payments, vacations, cars and college educations to their loved ones in need.  Their heart will swell three sizes and, from their high mountain of money, they will safely apply benevolence to the people. I may have had this daydream once or twice myself.  

Generosity does not begin with wealth, it begins with obedience, faith and love.  It doesn’t begin with an excess but an accent, an acknowledgement that God is good, His blessings are ample and meant to bless others in His name that they may know His grace and mercy.  Proverbs says that a generous person will prosper.  God will replenish those who glorify Him by joyfully and generously sharing His blessings. 

Let’s not get tired of doing what is good, for at the right time we will reap a harvest—if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9