August 30
The Blessing
of Giving
Proverbs 11:24-25
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.
Daily Steps
Having learned the wisdom of self-control (Day 238) and diligence (Day 242), the new believer is now called to apply that wisdom to their resources. This passage introduces the surprising spiritual paradox of generosity: giving is the true path to abundance and peace.
The peace in this principle is found in cheerful release:
The Paradox of Giving: The first contrast is startling: One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. The world teaches that hoarding secures safety, but God’s wisdom reveals that giving freely leads to greater spiritual and practical provision (Day 149). Fearful withholding, conversely, often leads to genuine lack.
The Promise of Refreshment: The promise is clear: A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. When you use your resources (time, money, talent) to genuinely refresh others—to meet their needs and bless them—God promises to reciprocate that blessing in your own life. This cycle of refreshing is the essence of a peaceful, prosperous life.
The Result is Trust: True generosity is an act of profound trust in God’s ultimate provision (Day 176). By giving, you declare that your security rests not in your bank account, but in the God of hope (Day 226). This confidence removes the anxiety associated with scarcity.
Your peace is secured by generosity. Embrace the wisdom of giving freely, knowing that the practice of refreshing others is God’s appointed path to personal prosperity, refreshment, and lasting abundance.
Reflective Question
If you are currently withholding unduly in some area of your life (e.g., resources, forgiveness, encouragement), what poverty (spiritual, relational, or material) is that withholding creating? What is one way you can be a generous person today to refresh someone else?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my fear of giving and my tendency to withhold unduly. I pray for the wisdom and faith to practice generosity.
Help me to be a person who refreshes others, trusting that Your word is true and that I, too, will be refreshed.
Secure my peace today in the knowledge that true abundance comes through cheerful, trusting giving. Amen.
