Proverbs 11:24-26 (ESV)
24 One gives freely, yet grows all the richer;
another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.
25 Whoever brings blessing will be enriched,
and one who waters will himself be watered.
26 The people curse him who holds back grain,
but a blessing is on the head of him who sells it.
The one who graciously distributes her resources, generously investing in the needs of others, ends up with more than she initially gave. In contrast, the stingy end up deprived even of basic needs. A satisfied life is the reward of those who provide for others, and God showers abundant blessing on those who provide for the poor. The community looks down on the one who hoards life’s necessities, but happy is she who makes her resources available to those around her. The Lord gives good gifts to all, and he expects his kids to be characterized by generosity as a result. Thinking about your recent bank transactions, would you say you are a generous person? If you struggle financially, could part of that be a consequence of stinginess? Are you praying God would show you needs you can meet and people whom financial help would truly benefit? Are you aware of needs in your church? Even if you don’t have much, give to those less fortunate than you. God will reward your kindness, both in this life and the life to come.