Scattering Seed (Proverbs 11:24)

Upside-down math

DeWayne's daughters used to get stuck on the idea that the first will be last. Proverbs 11:24 works the same way: one gives freely and gains more, another holds back and ends up poor. In man's economy, giving $10,000 leaves you $10,000 lighter. God's economy runs differently.

Scattering

Older translations say "scatters," a farmer's word. Scattering seed isn't throwing it away. It's planting. DeWayne thanked a man on the call who gave up his Saturday to help move a church member he'd never met.

Unduly

The warning is for holding back when you're able to help. Not having a truck isn't withholding one.

Wisdom in giving

Giving freely doesn't mean being an endless ATM. Sometimes the better gift is help with a budget, a job lead, or a referral to a recovery program. One participant called it pouring into a hole that never fills. Another noted that the fruit of the Spirit, like patience, kindness, and love, can be given freely too.

Try this

• Give one hour of your time to someone this week.
• If someone keeps asking you for money, pray about what would actually help.