July 31, 2016 (Proverbs 11:24,25)

“One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed” (Prov 11:24,25). It is a fundamental biblical principle that God does not bless one solely for self-indulgent enjoyment. Many are the teachings which amplify this principle, including the command of Jesus that to follow Him as a true disciple, one must deny self and take up his cross daily. It is the principle behind the admonition of Christ to not store up treasures on earth but rather in heaven where what is stored will have eternal value. Jesus tells the parable of a rich man whose fields produced an especially abundant crop. Then instead of sharing his good fortune with the poor and needy, he determined to build an even larger barn so that he could be more self-indulgent in the future. But God said his life was going to be demanded of him that very night because of his selfishness. And Jesus added these words, “This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God” (Luke 12:21). Let us never ignore being told by the Lord Jesus that whatever we do for the least of men, we are seen as doing for the Lord Himself (Matthew 25:40). God promised that those who give generously, whether financially or given of themselves, are being good stewards of God’s gifts and will receive back more than they give. This does not necessarily mean financial returns as there are any number of gifts far more valuable such as good health or peace which passes all understanding in times of trial or affliction. Furthermore, we do not refresh others simply so we will find ourselves refreshed. We find ourselves refreshing others out of sincere gratitude for having received that refreshment purchased for us without any merit on our part on an ugly blood-stained cross.