One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. 25 A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed. (Proverbs 11:24-25)
Notice how these two verses are translated in The Message:
The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller. 25 The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed; those who help others are helped.
There are two viewpoints when it comes to generosity. Many people have a "poverty mentality." They do not think that they can be generous and still meet their own needs. Their thinking and their words reflect this: "We don't have enough money"... "I don't have enough time"... "We can't afford to help them."
On the other side of the coin, are those with a "prosperity mentality." They think the opposite. Their faith is such that as they look at others who have been blessed, instead of being jealous they have the attitude that if God can bless him then He can also bless me. When it comes to giving of their time, talent, and treasure, those with a "prosperity mentality" understand that God has already given us more than enough.
Let's develop the right kind of viewpoint when it comes to generosity. Let's remind ourselves every day that God has blessed us with more than we need. Let's remember his promises that as we are generous, He will return to us a greater portion that what we have shared. Let's keep our eyes opened to opportunities to be generous.
By the way... random acts of kindness are a form of generosity! Reach out to others in this way, and see what God does in return!
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