Giving and Being Refreshed
Scripture Reading — Proverbs 11:24-31
A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
What we call “blessings” are not always blessings. Having or hoarding plentiful possessions doesn’t guarantee happiness. Saving funds for a lengthy retirement doesn’t mean you’ll live to reach the age projected to enjoy it. It’s what we do with what we have that determines a sense of prosperity. What matters is looking at stuff with eternity in mind.
As a grateful recipient of people’s generosity, I’ve learned that giving freely and generously has more to do with our way of thinking than with having an abundance to give. Whether we share our time or donate our funds, the reward is in the giving. The giver experiences a sense of community as she shares with someone, imitating her Creator in doing so. She helps to refresh others, and in doing so she is refreshed. Doing what God uniquely designed us to do promises blessing for both giver and receiver.
Jesus provides the example of how to live our lives as generous givers. He gave his all, a living sacrifice (see Romans 12:1). The Father rewarded him with the accomplishment of a kingdom being established, a church growing in grace, and individuals living with a purpose. If Jesus had withheld himself, we would have no future, no refreshment. Our blessings are entrusted to us for blessing others. In refreshing others, we too will be refreshed!
Heavenly Father, Giver of all good gifts, we praise your name. Help us see that what you entrust to us is ours to share with others. In Christ’s name, Amen.
About the author — George Vink
Pastor George Vink has served as a pastor in the Christian Reformed Church for more than 30 years in British Columbia, Montana, Michigan, and California. He and his wife, Shirley, have four married sons and nine grandchildren.
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