Day 24

Generosity and Gluttony

from the reading plan


Proverbs 3:27-28, Proverbs 11:24-26, Proverbs 19:17, Proverbs 22:9, Proverbs 23:19-21, Proverbs 25:16


The book of Proverbs is a guide for pursuing godly wisdom in our daily lives. In this four-week study, we will read a selection of topical proverbs covering different aspects of wisdom, from how to interact with our friends, families, and neighbors, to fearing God and keeping His commands. No matter the subject, these proverbs urge us to wrestle with and reflect on our own response to them. To help you better engage with the proverbs in this reading plan, we have provided you with a short introduction and reflection questions for each day.

Gluttony and generosity are opposites: one involves self-motivated overconsumption, while the other focuses on selfless and sacrificial giving. One makes us sick; one makes others well. The true problem with gluttony is not about how much we consume. It has to do with our ability to practice self-control, an essential component of generosity. Generosity is always an exercise in self-control because it requires us to give when our instinct is to keep. Consider how these proverbs link gluttony and generosity together and let their wisdom hold up a mirror for you.

Reflection Questions: 

Think of a time you withheld, knowing you should have been generous. Why did you withhold your generosity?

What appetites have a hold on your heart? How does gluttony contradict generosity?

What sort of poverty do you think is being described in Proverbs 23:19–21?

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