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. Proverbs 11:24-25
“Another social factor that influences generosity and has been a popular topic of research is reputation or social image. In one study, undergraduate study participants were given the opportunity to give money to and receive it from other anonymous participants. Before deciding whether to give to a particular partner, participants were provided with that person’s past donation decisions. Receivers with a history of past generosity received significantly more frequent donations, suggesting that people are more generous toward people whom they perceive as generous.”
Summer Allen in “The Science of Generosity” White Paper produced by the Greater Good Science Center.
Today’s Scripture reveals the counterintuitive and paradoxical nature of generosity in God’s economy. Those who give gain even more and those who don’t experience poverty.
And today’s research reinforces this. Good comes to those who give to others. I pray this truth motivates at least one person reading this to take steps to build a generous reputation.
I arrived safely home. Thanks for your prayers. I am grateful to God that GTP now serves workers freely in 123 countries, turning dependency to discipleship and building trust to grow local giving.