Proverbs 11:24

One gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor.

Study Bible

One gives freely, yet gains even more
This phrase introduces a paradox that is central to the wisdom literature of the Bible. The Hebrew root for "gives freely" is "פָּזַר" (pazar), which means to scatter or disperse. This imagery suggests a generous distribution of resources, akin to a farmer scattering seed. In the ancient Near Eastern context, generosity was often seen as a virtue that led to divine favor and increased prosperity. The idea of gaining more through giving is counterintuitive to human logic but aligns with the biblical principle that God blesses those who are generous. This reflects the broader scriptural theme that true wealth is not measured by what one keeps but by what one gives away.

another withholds what is right, only to become poor
The phrase "withholds what is right" uses the Hebrew root "חָשַׂךְ" (chasak), meaning to hold back or restrain. In the biblical context, withholding what is right can refer to not sharing resources, love, or justice with others. The ancient Israelites understood that hoarding wealth or resources was not only socially irresponsible but spiritually detrimental. The phrase "only to become poor" underscores the irony that those who seek to preserve their wealth by withholding it ultimately suffer loss. This reflects the biblical teaching that spiritual and material poverty can result from a lack of generosity, as God’s blessings are often contingent upon our willingness to bless others.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His insights into human behavior and divine principles are reflected in this verse.

2. Ancient Israel
The cultural and historical context of Proverbs is rooted in ancient Israel, where wisdom literature was a key component of teaching and moral instruction.

3. The Generous Giver
This person represents those who give freely and generously, trusting in God's provision and experiencing abundance as a result.

4. The Withholder
This person symbolizes those who are stingy or selfish, withholding what is rightfully due, and consequently facing poverty or lack.

5. Divine Economy
The principle that God's ways of rewarding and providing often defy human logic, emphasizing spiritual and moral laws over materialistic calculations.

Teaching Points

The Paradox of Generosity
God's economy operates on principles that often seem paradoxical to human understanding. Giving freely can lead to greater gain, while withholding can result in loss.

Trust in God's Provision
Believers are encouraged to trust in God's provision, understanding that He rewards those who give with a pure heart and faith in His promises.

The Heart of Giving
True generosity stems from a heart aligned with God's will, seeking to bless others rather than hoard resources for oneself.

Consequences of Withholding
Withholding what is right, whether it be resources, time, or love, can lead to spiritual and material poverty, as it reflects a lack of trust in God's sufficiency.

Living Generously
Christians are called to live generously, reflecting God's character and trusting that He will meet all their needs according to His riches in glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the principle of giving freely and gaining more challenge our natural inclinations towards self-preservation and accumulation?

2. In what ways can we practice generosity in our daily lives, and how might this impact our relationship with God and others?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision after giving generously. How did this experience strengthen your faith?

4. How can we discern when we are withholding what is right, and what steps can we take to align our actions with God's principles of generosity?

5. How do the teachings in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 and Luke 6:38 complement the message of Proverbs 11:24, and what practical applications can we draw from these connections?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Corinthians 9:6-7
This passage reinforces the principle of sowing and reaping, encouraging believers to give cheerfully and generously, promising that God loves a cheerful giver.

Luke 6:38
Jesus teaches that giving will result in receiving, pressed down and overflowing, highlighting the reciprocal nature of generosity in God's kingdom.

Malachi 3:10
This verse challenges believers to bring their tithes to God, promising that He will open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings beyond measure.