Daily Devotional for Wednesday, September 24

The Righteous Are Rewarded

“There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty. The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself,” Proverbs 11:24, 25 .

Our key verses paint a vivid picture of the principles of giving, righteousness and the ensuing rewards. The passage begins with a paradoxical statement: “There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty” (Proverbs 11:24). This verse encapsulates the biblical law of generosity. Those who freely give of their resources, time and love often find themselves blessed with even more.

The subsequent verses continue to elaborate on this theme. Verse 25 promises that “the liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.” Those who invest in others’ well-being will find their own lives enriched. This principle is not limited to material wealth; it extends to emotional and spiritual abundance.

Verses 26 through 28 warn against selfishness and greed. Trusting in wealth is a precarious foundation, but those who live righteously and trust in the Lord will thrive. This flourishing is likened to a branch, suggesting growth, vitality and fruitfulness.

Finally, verses 30 and 31 declare the ultimate reward for righteousness, “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.” The righteous not only experience God’s blessings in this life but also play a crucial role in leading others to salvation.

TODAY’S THOUGHT

Proverbs 11:24-31 encourages us to embrace a lifestyle of generosity, righteousness and trust in God. As we do so, we can be assured that God’s rewards, both temporal and eternal, will follow.

Steven Ridings