One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.
-Proverbs 11:24 (ESV)

Here Solomon provides us with an unusual paradox: If you want to become richer, give.

This seems odd at first glance and is certainly contrary to the “more, more, more” attitude of the world today. We are taught that life is all about making the big bucks. Make as much as you can so that you can own as much as you can. We’re even told that you’ve got to have money to make money. So why in the world would Solomon offer this seemingly backward and financially-hurtful advice?

Simply put, God wants to bless us, and he is especially generous to those who are generous first. And we’re not just talking about money here — it can be things like your time and energy as well.

Want to know the secret to becoming rich? Give. Because the more we give, the more God gives back as well, allowing us to give more again and the cycle to continue.

It may not make mathematical sense, but you’ve got to give to gain.