stephen R Harrison

JOY 365: Day 8

 A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.  -Proverbs 11:25

I got to visit with a missionary today whom we have been supporting for several years. Their family is very dear to us. We’ve prayed, encouraged, and financially supported them. While we were having lunch, he told me a long-term supporter just dropped them without warning. I saw the disappointment and concern on his face and heard it in his voice. Instantly, the Lord impressed me to give to them. It was a larger amount, and before I said anything, I needed to discuss it with my wife. For a moment, I hesitated, even questioned whether it was the Lord. One thing I’ve learned about generosity is that the devil will never ask you to do it. Generosity has been the antidote to greed and brought us more joy than keeping possessions ever could.

Proverbs 11:25 says, “A generous person will prosper. Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” This truth has never disappointed! Every time we have given to someone in need, God has richly blessed and refreshed us. One way has been keeping our minds from worrying about finances. Giving has always caused us to trust the Lord, thank him for provision, and generate the joy of the Lord. The Lord gives. The Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord (Job 1:21). It truly is more blessed to give than receive (Acts 20:35).

How is the Lord moving you to be generous? How has generosity blessed you and others?