“It is possible to give away (release) and become richer! It is also possible to hold on too tightly and lose everything…” (Prov. 11:24 TLB).
Here is a paradox. Letting go is enriching; holding on is impoverishing. It almost sounds the very opposite of everything we have ever been taught. Our crass world says: “Get all you can, and can all you get!” “Get while the getting is good!” “Opportunity only knocks once, so you’d better seize it when you get the chance!”
This verse is a confirmation of the Biblical admonition of Ecclesiastes 11:1 to “cast your bread upon the waters” (give to others), in confident assurance that “it will come back to you” (greatly multiplied).
While the Bible encourages thrift and preparation for emergencies (Prov. 22:3), it discourages unhealthy hoarding, insecure stockpiling, and anxiously awaiting some dreadful calamity.
Generosity is the key to prosperity, and outflowing is the key to contentment. Givers are fulfilled; takers are unfulfilled. This verse actually implies that giving people get richer while miserly people get poorer. Generous folks can always find something to give to worthy causes. Stingy folks find it extremely hard to find even a ten-cent piece for anybody else’s welfare.
What a challenge to be generous! Give away and become richer. (It is the heavenly Father’s nature to be giving.) Try it! You’ll enjoy it! You’re in for a very pleasant surprise when the full impact of this verse falls on you and its results start appearing in your life!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.