For the month of May, we’ll take a brief look at 31 wise sayings from Proverbs 11, that’s one proverb a day…
One person gives freely, yet gains more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor. A generous person will be enriched and the one who gives a drink of water will receive water.
Proverbs 11:24&25, Christian Standard Bible
(Two proverbs today, as they go together)
Generosity has a great reward. Why might this be?
First, because generosity tends to lead us away from wastefulness. When we plan our spending to freely give to others, especially those with great need, then we naturally think through the things we can live without or purchase more cheaply. Thus, we cut wasteful spending.
Second, because generosity helps you to value other things more. Greed is what clings to money and possessions, shouting, Mine! A generous heart recognizes there is far more to life than money and possessions. The reward comes in bringing other people joy, in meeting their needs, in relationships, etc.
Third, because God sometimes provides more to the generous givers so that they might then give even more. We see this idea in 2 Corinthians 9:7-11. As you give, God may choose to give you more that “you may excel in every good work.”
Fourth, because generosity draws us nearer to the heart of God. God is a generous God. He gave himself fully to us as Jesus went to the cross to die for our sin and rose to give us an eternal, joyful, and abundant life. Part of the outworking of our salvation is recovering the image of God within us that sin marred. Generosity that flows from hearts impacted by the gospel helps us to be more like God in our character and helps us to relish the generous joy that God gave us.
First Baptist Church 