“One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.”
Proverbs 11:24
In God’s economy, according to this verse at least, it may seem that subtraction actually equals addition. However, in this scenario, the motive of the “one” moves the commodities involved from math to generosity, which plays by different rules.
Often when people think of the word generosity they automatically think of money. But biblical generosity speaks more of seed, than a coin, when it talks of giving freely. When our generosity spurs us to give of our finances, our time, our treasure, our possessions, etc… in essence, to give of ourselves, the “ask” is not for a commodity, but for our heart. Do you trust that God can, “make all grace abound to you, …” as Paul says in 2 Corinthians 9:8? Take a look at the purpose and the intention for this “funny math” spoken by a Pharisee of the law (which included the book of Proverbs), and enlightened by the Holy Spirit:
8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. 9 As it is written,
“He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever.”10 He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. 12 For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. 13 By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others,
2 Corinthians 9:8-13
So, really, it’s not changing subtraction to addition… but to multiplication! And what is multiplied is the “seed for sowing;” the ability and opportunity to continue to be generous! …and this, is ultimately for the glory of God and the edification of others. A seed must be given to the ground in order for it to make more of itself, and the farmer who does not plant his seed will not gain a harvest of blessing and therefore be left wanting.
Let’s Pray…
Father, in Jesus’ Name and by the Holy Spirit, praise and honor belong to You. You have demonstrated generosity for us in so many ways.
Lord, I praise You because You were generous to me when You…
Because You are the author of generosity, I give You thanks for…
Father, I confess I’m tempted to not show generosity when…
Lord, give me Your perspective on generosity when I feel…
Spirit, remind me of Your generosity to me, this week, when I encounter…