The Lodestar

Contrary to popular notions, the Bible teaches that emptiness is a form of replenishment. When we pour from a container, it becomes empty, leaving nothing behind, and fills another vessel. However, this verse affirms that the vessel that is emptied will be filled.

It is not clear what type of “blessing” is in the mind of the writer, since it is too general, it applies to all kinds of blessings. Those who bless another person by giving, serving, and so on bring blessing upon themselves.

The imagery of the self-watering tree, although it may seem unrealistic, effectively illustrates the point. Though the rain stops when clouds empty all the water they carry, the trees continue to drip water from their leaves for some time to water the small plants under their shade.

During my student days, I would help my friends who struggled with their studies by explaining the lessons to them. This act of kindness, blessing my friends, riveted the lessons in my mind. They passed, and I scored better.

Similarly, preachers of the Word, while enlightening their flock, enrich themselves by the truths they preach. A Sunday School teacher gains new knowledge while imparting Bible knowledge to the younger ones. Two corporate leaders recently revealed that their earnings had increased by over 20 per cent after they started giving to humanitarian causes.

This verse does not mean that to get more, we must give more. But it observes that givers have never gone dry; they always remain full to pour out again. It may run against the grain of common sense, but in the light of the Bible, it makes perfect sense, as it encourages us to bless others in every way possible.

Look for someone you can bless today — with your time, encouragement, skills, or resources. Do not wait to feel full before you give; in God’s economy, it is the emptied vessel that is filled again. Pour out in faith and watch him replenish you in ways you never expected.