
“The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” - Proverbs 11:25 NLT
Growing up in church I remember hearing about the Dead Sea, located near Israel. It didn’t take me long to piece together; it’s called the Dead Sea because nothing can live in it (I’m quick that way), but I never knew why. So, I decided to do some digging.
The Dead Sea resides in a basin with an extremely high salt deposit. It receives water from various sources but has no outlet for the water it takes in to flow out. Therefore, the salt from its basin, along with the salt from the streams that flow into it, continues to build up. The salt buildup makes it impossible for any sea life to survive.
The Sea of Galilee is very different. Despite being in an area of drought, it teems with life. It not only receives water from the Jordan River, but it also gives water back to it as well. This process of giving and receiving allows the Sea of Galilee to filter out minerals that are harmful to its sea life. Put another way, the sea that gives is the sea that lives.
Today’s verse talks about how giving refreshes both the giver and the receiver. The Hebrew word for refresh here means to quench a thirst.
I believe one of the greatest needs in our world today is refreshing encouragement. I talk to people every day who are frustrated, discouraged, tired, and beaten down by life. Maybe you can relate.
Today’s Psalm, however, challenges us to look for ways to refresh others. The challenge comes with an amazing benefit: By blessing others, we are blessed in return.
Right now you might be thinking, I don’t have anything left to give. I’m barely keeping my head above water as it is. Nobody is pouring into me; why should I pour into them?
Because those who refresh others will be refreshed themselves.
Many Christians I encounter are a lot like the Dead Sea. They take in a lot of sermons, Bible studies, conferences, and Christian media, without engaging in opportunities to pour out. As a result, their faith becomes lifeless. (James 2:17)
Today, I want to challenge you to be more like the Sea of Galilee. Take in all the good stuff like fellowship, spiritual disciplines, Christian guidance, and support from fellow believers. Just make sure you have outlets where you also give back some of what you have received.
At the end of the day, if you want to find encouragement for your life, sometimes you just need to give it away.
Digging Deeper:
- Has there been a time in your life when someone else encouraged you? Share your experience with the K-LOVE community.
- What is a way you can encourage someone this week?
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If you need prayer or you would like to talk with a K-LOVE Pastor, we are here to serve you. Call us at 888-525-5683.