Refreshed

Do you know someone who constantly pours themselves out?

They’re generous with their words, unselfish with their time, and openhanded with their money. And yet, somehow, they always seem to have more to give.

The author of Proverbs, a book traditionally attributed to King Solomon, said this:

“The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭11‬:‭25‬ ‭NLT

King Solomon knew a thing or two about prospering. Scripture tells us: “King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth” (1 Kings 10:23). But he was also generous, spending years of his life funding and building the temple in Jerusalem, as well as sharing what he had learned with others.

Some of the most miserable people on earth are also the most selfish people on earth. But if you’ve ever been generous with your life—whether you’ve given financially, contributed your expertise, invested your time, opened up your home, or offered spiritual, emotional, and physical support—you know from experience: those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. 

Of course, we shouldn’t give to get. And we also must apply God’s wisdom when it comes to setting boundaries. But Jesus is the King of an upside-down Kingdom, where:

The last will be first.

The greatest will be a servant.

Those who give up their life will save it.

Jesus even told a story of a poor woman who gave more than anyone else—because she gave everything she had (Mark 12:41-44).

You don’t have to be rich to be generous; you just need a heart that is willing to serve.

So today, instead of a scarcity mindset, let’s have a mindset of abundance. Our God has unlimited strength, power, and resources.