Tag: Proverbs 11:25
Generosity is rewarded!
Scripture reading for February 24: Deuteronomy 12-16
In many cultures, the poor and needy are viewed as under the judgment of the gods. These people are despised and live in the worst conditions on the fringes of society. Children born in the families are destined to live in poverty, sickness, and usually have an early death. India has millions living in the caste system and viewed as nearly untouchable by their peers. The Hindu religion and the teaching of reincarnation and this caste system keeps the bondage in place.
The God of the Bible, creator of heaven and earth, is compassionate and merciful. When He formed the nation of Israel and delivered them from slavery, He instructed them in the care of those society had looked down upon. The orphans and widows were singled out for care by the Lord. (Deuteronomy 14:28-29) God promised to bless the Israelites for caring for them. The alien was also to be cared for, because the Israelites were also aliens and strangers in Egypt and could identify with what it was like to on the outside of the economic and political power system.
God said that there should be no poor among His people. (Deuteronomy 15:4) The reason given was that if they fully obeyed the Lord in keeping all His commands, God would so bless them that they would have an abundance to help others. They would lend only and not borrow. (Deuteronomy 15:6) They would also rule and not be in servitude. “. . the borrower becomes the slave of the lender.” (Proverbs: 22:7)
God said that some would be poor among His people because of disobedience and they would need help. Those who were fully obeying the Lord were to be generous with the poor. They were not to be “tight-fisted” or “hard-hearted” towards their poor brothers, but to be “open-handed” and “freely lend”. (Deuteronomy 15:7-10) God said it was sinful to be stingy toward the poor brother! (Proverbs 14:31) He was indicating His love for those who are truly needy. God always pays well when we help the poor, for He promises to repay what we will give. (Proverbs 19:7)
Take time today to remember someone who is in need or suffering because of poverty. As the Holy Spirit guides you, be generous and give cheerfully. “A generous man will prosper and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25)
Actively share your faith!
Scripture reading for October 12th: Philemon
Key Scriptures for over-comers: Philemon 3-7 “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints. I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ. Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.”
Paul wrote this short letter to a friend, Philemon, who had a run-away slave that was now a believer and a helper of Paul as he was imprisoned. Paul wrote to appeal to Philemon to do what was right by this new convert whom Paul considered a “son”. Paul commended Philemon and his friends for their faith and love for all the saints. It gave Paul joy to know that his friend was refreshing the hearts of fellow-believers. Paul especially encouraged Philemon and prayed that he would be active in sharing his faith. This would bring a fuller understanding to his own life of God’s great gift and His heart of love for all men.
Observations for over-comers: Faith and love are key ingredients in the lives of over-comers. Faith and love energize evangelism and evangelism grows our faith and love! “A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” (Proverbs 11:25)