Proverbs 11:25 The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.
Introductory Thought
The book of Proverbs frequently incorporates the tools of comparison and contrast for the purpose of teaching specific truths. In today’s passage, a liberal soul is likened to one who waters. The passage also mentions that being made fat is likened to being watered. In other words, a liberal reaps the benefits of his own liberality. Proverbs chapter 3 also sets forth the principle of sowing and reaping as man is told to “Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine” (Proverbs 3:9-10). When a man with a sincere heart liberally cares for the Lord and His people, the Lord will return his liberality back to him.
Devotional thoughts
- (For children): Over and over again, God promises to bless His people that give to Him and also give to those in need (Proverbs 19:17; Proverbs 22:9; Proverbs 28:27; Hebrews 6:10). God even invites us to test the truth of what He says (Malachi 3:10). He cannot lie (Titus 1:2).
- (For everyone): The rewards of liberality do not make sense to the world. How could giving to the Lord actually yield an increase to the giver? Have you ever experienced this truth?
- Liberality often requires personal sacrifice. In what ways have you personally sacrificed to be liberal in your giving to the Lord and His work?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to show you the benefits of liberality.
- Ask God to give you a desire to be liberal in your giving.
SONG: IT PAYS TO SERVE JESUS