Thoughts on Proverbs 11
One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty..….
Proverbs 11:24 NIV
The book of Proverbs gives some practical instruction on the use of money, although sometimes it is advice we would rather not hear. It’s more comfortable to continue in our habits than to learn how to use money more wisely. In verses 24 and 25 of today’s reading, we see a paradox- that we become richer by being generous. The world system encourages us to hold on to as much as possible, but God blesses those who give freely of their possessions, time and energy. When we give, God supplies us with more so that we can give more. In addition, giving helps us gain a right perspective on our earthly possessions. We realise they were never really ours to begin with, but they were given to us by God to be used to help others. When we give, we ultimately are freed from enslavement to our possessions. We also gain God’s approval,not forgetting also the joy that comes with helping others. May God grant us this grace of giving. Amen 🙏
