Proverbs 11:24 is a wise saying about generosity and stinginess. It presents a paradoxical truth:
"There is one who scatters, and increases yet more." This part describes someone who is generous and gives freely (scatters). Despite giving away possessions or resources, this person actually prospers and becomes even more wealthy. This is because generosity often leads to positive outcomes like goodwill, reciprocity, and a good reputation, which can attract opportunities and blessings. It can also simply be a reflection of a broader principle that God blesses those who are generous in spirit.
"There is one who withholds more than is appropriate, but gains poverty." This part describes someone who is stingy and hoards possessions. They refuse to share or give, even when it's right or necessary (withholds more than is appropriate). Ironically, their stinginess doesn't lead to wealth. Instead, it leads to poverty. This can happen in several ways: their tightfistedness can damage relationships, leading to isolation and lack of support; they might miss opportunities because they are unwilling to invest; or their miserly attitude can simply be a sign of a deeper, more negative mindset that prevents them from achieving true success.
In essence, the verse teaches that generosity is a better path to prosperity than stinginess. It highlights the unexpected consequences of these two approaches to wealth and resources. It suggests that true wealth is not just about accumulating possessions, but also about having a generous spirit and a willingness to share.
Proverbs 11:24 is a wise saying about generosity and stinginess. It presents a paradoxical truth:
"There is one who scatters, and increases yet more." This part describes someone who is generous and gives freely (scatters). Despite giving away possessions or resources, this person actually prospers and becomes even more wealthy. This is because generosity often leads to positive outcomes like goodwill, reciprocity, and a good reputation, which can attract opportunities and blessings. It can also simply be a reflection of a broader principle that God blesses those who are generous in spirit.
"There is one who withholds more than is appropriate, but gains poverty." This part describes someone who is stingy and hoards possessions. They refuse to share or give, even when it's right or necessary (withholds more than is appropriate). Ironically, their stinginess doesn't lead to wealth. Instead, it leads to poverty. This can happen in several ways: their tightfistedness can damage relationships, leading to isolation and lack of support; they might miss opportunities because they are unwilling to invest; or their miserly attitude can simply be a sign of a deeper, more negative mindset that prevents them from achieving true success.
In essence, the verse teaches that generosity is a better path to prosperity than stinginess. It highlights the unexpected consequences of these two approaches to wealth and resources. It suggests that true wealth is not just about accumulating possessions, but also about having a generous spirit and a willingness to share.