“A generous person will be prosperous, and one who gives others plenty of water will himself be given plenty.”—Proverbs 11:25 NASB

The Bible teaches that life is governed by principles. Some of these principles are in line with commonsense human thinking, with benefits and expectations that are in line with everyday life. But there are times when our human tendencies and expectations are wrong in deceptive ways. The Bible teaches that the key to success and true wealth comes from giving away, not collecting or hoarding. We are challenged to consider the consequences of increasing the things we own (Ecclesiastes 5:11). Jesus taught that it was through giving that we gain: “Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over” (Luke 6:38). Proverbs addresses this principle by teaching about generosity. The Bible says that those who are blessed and prosper are characterized by generosity. They are delighted to give. Further, those who share what they have find themselves blessed by others. They realize they have been blessed, so they can be a blessing. In contrast, those who hoard what they have been given find themselves selfish and self-centered. They fail to follow God’s blueprint for success and the principles He established. Ask God to help you be a generous person, and develop the habit of being generous with the resources He has given you. Sow into His Kingdom and into the lives of others.

Reflection Question: How can you be generous with what God’s given you this week?

“There we saw the giants (the descendants of Anak came from the giants); and we were like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight.”—Numbers 13:33 NKJV

The story is told of a shoe factory that sent two scouts to a region to evaluate prospects. One reported, “Situation hopeless. No one wants to wear shoes.” The other wrote back, “Glorious business opportunity. They have no shoes.” The principle was simple: One person saw an impossible situation while the other saw potential. One was filled with doubt. The other, with faith and hope. This story illustrates how our attitude changes the way we look at life. Those with a negative attitude expect defeat and see reasons for failure. Projects may not just seem challenging but impossible. But it is possible to look at these same problems and see opportunities. The Bible describes a similar scouting expedition when Moses sent 12 men to search out the Promised Land. One group saw nothing but problems. But two men, Caleb and Joshua, had an entirely different attitude and believed they could be victorious. All of us face challenges and crises that have no solutions, adversaries that cannot seem to be defeated, giants that have every advantage, or weaknesses that cannot seem to be overcome. The Bible encourages us to have faith no matter the obstacle. Believe that, with God’s help, we can defeat any giant. He can heal any sickness, open blind eyes, and restore broken relationships. God can provide the answers we need—even for what seems impossible.

Reflection Question: What impossible situation are you praying about right now?