Proverbs 11:24

Afrikaans 1933/1953

What Does This Mean?

Proverbs 11:24 says that some people give generously and end up with more, while others are stingy and end up poor. The key message is that generosity can lead to blessing, while holding back can lead to lack.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a bag of candies. If you share them with your friends, you might make new friends and get more candies in return. But if you keep all the candies for yourself, you might end up lonely and still with the same amount of candies. That's what this verse is saying, but about money and blessings instead of candies.

Historical Background

Proverbs was written by King Solomon, one of the wisest kings in Israel, around 950 BC. It was written to provide wisdom and guidance to the people of Israel, helping them understand how to live a good life.

Living It Out Today

Imagine you're a small business owner who decides to invest in community projects rather than hoarding profits. Over time, your business thrives because of the goodwill and support from the community. This verse encourages such generosity as a way to prosperity.

Topics

wisdomgenerosityprosperityblessingstewardshipcommunity

Related Verses

Proverbs 11:25Luke 6:38Acts 20:351 Timothy 6:18Psalm 112:9

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to 'scatter' in Proverbs 11:24?
To 'scatter' means to give freely or generously, often in the context of sharing resources or wealth with others.
How does stinginess lead to poverty according to the verse?
Stinginess often limits one's ability to receive blessings and support from others, which can lead to isolation and a lack of prosperity.
Can this verse be applied to charitable giving?
Yes, this verse strongly supports the idea of charitable giving. It suggests that those who give generously to others often find that their own resources increase.
What are some examples of 'holding back more than is meet'?
Examples include refusing to share resources, not investing in community projects, or keeping too much wealth for oneself, which can lead to a lack of support and opportunities.
Compare Proverbs 11:24 across all translations →