The Paradox of Generosity!

Scripture Passage:

Proverbs 11:24

²⁴ There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; And there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.

 

Devotion:

Difficult messages about Proverbs seek to upset the logical order of the world, and Proverbs 11:24 is no different. How doing more good makes a person a richer man and what holds a lot of good—these questions do not have answers by the wise men of the world.

Generosity does not only belong to donations; it is reflective of a heart condition that agrees with God's character. Giving in itself comes from freedom, whether it's by devotion of time, resources, or love, thus relying on God's providence to furnish it. It allows God's blessing into our lives in a manner that is sometimes quite unexpected, and very often, it is not material gain but happiness, or at least peace.

As an antithesis, holding back does more harm than good and stems from apprehension and a poverty mentality. This mindset explicitly shows that people cannot trust that the Lord will provide. How ironic that a person who holds back actually incurs much isolation, is very discontented, and also feels empty; poverty that goes beyond monetary wealth can exist within people.

Living generously is God's will, not unfettered or obligatory in any way, but a reflection of his generosity. This generates what Jesus emphasized in Luke 6:38: "Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap!"

Generating blessings for all is the best way to bless and to be blessed. It causes many to bear more than we shall see- the ripple comes out in time to other souls being blessed away from our sight.

Application:

Reflect on your attitude towards giving. Are there specific areas in which fear or self-preservation prevents you from freely giving? Think of one way you can act generously today: giving to someone in need, sharing your time, or merely giving encouragement. Trust that God will work through your giving to bless others and provide for you.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for showing us what abundant life can look like. You've given so much—love, grace, provision—and we want to reflect that in our own lives. Grant us the grace and trust to give freely because You are our real Provider. Cleanse us of fear and selfishness so that we may cheerfully give. May our generosity bring glory to you and bless those around us to experience Your lavish bounty. Amen in Jesus' name.