Proverbs 11:25 - Meaning and Application

We are so slow to give and so quick to think that generosity will leave us worse off, that we need to be reminded how much good it does for us to do good for others, as in Proverbs 11:17.

1. We will feel the comfort of it in our own hearts. The liberal soul, the blessing soul, is the one that prays for those in trouble and supplies what they need. It is a person who spreads blessing with kind words and generous hands. Such a soul will be made rich with true joy and will grow in grace.

2. We will receive a reward for it, both from God and from people. The one who waters others with the stream of his generosity will also be watered himself. God will surely answer with the dew and the rich showers of his blessing, until there is more than enough to receive it (Malachi 3:10). People who have any sense of gratitude will also repay kindness when they have the chance. The merciful will find mercy, and the kind will be dealt with kindly.

3. We will be able to keep doing even more good. Some read it this way: the one who waters will himself be like rain. He will be refreshed again, as clouds return after the rain, and he will continue to be useful and welcome, like rain on newly cut grass. The Chaldee reads it this way: the one who teaches will learn. That is, the one who uses his knowledge to teach others will himself be taught by God. To the person who has and uses what he has, more will be given.