One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.
A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Prov. 11:24–25
Lord Jesus, we can’t read these words without lifting ours heart and hands toward heaven. It’s impossible to ponder these four words, “he who refreshes others,” without thinking of you. For no one refreshes dry and weary hearts like you. Your mercies are new every morning; your grace is sufficient for every day; your steadfast love never comes to an end.
No one gives more freely than you. You never “withhold unduly.” You willingly took on the poverty of the cross to make us extraordinarily rich in grace (2 Corinthians 8:9). This is the Gospel, and nothing is more refreshing than the Gospel. For it is “the power of God for salvation” (Rom. 1:16) for the whole Christian life—for today and every day.
It’s encouraging to know on this hot August Monday that you’re calling out in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink” (John 7:37 NIV). Jesus, I join my brothers and sisters in coming to you right now with my heart as wide open as the gospel enables.
We humble ourselves before you. We own the need you alone can meet. We’re not ashamed to let you know just how much we desire to be refreshed by you, Jesus. You love to give, and we love to receive from you. Fill us to overflowing with living water.
And as grace runs downhill to the needy, so it flows to others freely. To whom would you send us today, Jesus? Freely we receive; freely we will give. Refresh others through us, Lord. So very Amen we pray, in your kind and powerful name.
