24 One person gives freely, yet gains even more;
another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.
25 A GENEROUS PERSON WILL PROSPER;
WHOEVER REFRESHES others will be refreshed. Proverbs 11
24-25 It is possible to give away and become richer! It is also possible to hold on too tightly and lose everything. Yes, the liberal man shall be rich! BY WATERING OTHERS, HE WATERS HIMSELF. (Enlightened self interest) Proverbs 11 Living Bible
One definition of Generosity (Cambridge dictionary)
a willingness to give help or support, especially more than is usual or expected
The enlightened person gives and receives more, another law of the Kingdom of God which is completely at odds with this world system.
37 ‘Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38 Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.’ Luke 6
Luke’s Gospel has much to say about Giving and in the verses above it links judging, condemning and forgiving to the act of Giving. It would seem that those who are willing to extend forgiveness instead of judging and condemning will receive in like way. Generosity isn’t just about finances, it’s a mark of God’s character in our lives. Giving and Forgiving allows God to return a greater measure of blessing to us.
6 Remember this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for GOD LOVES A CHEERFUL GIVER. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 2 Corinthians 9
When we Give we’re imitating our Father in Heaven and opening the door for far greater blessings into our lives in the future. As we said it’s not just about Giving money, whatever we Give to others will result in blessing.
God bless and keep you today. Immanuel, God is with us.