Riches That Never Run Out

Imagine a genie gave you 30 seconds to make one wish that would positively impact others. What would you ask for? Money? Influence? Power? In my imaginary version, I chose riches. The genie replied: "Your riches will never decrease. They will increase with spending." Perfect. Then came the disappointment – the riches weren't gold. They were kind words. At first that sounds almost insulting. But think about it. A sincere thank you can change someone's day. A word of encouragement can restore courage. A compliment can make someone feel seen. A few words of appreciation can remind someone that what they do actually matters. Astonishingly, giving these things costs us nothing – yet we often ration them as though they are expensive. Scripture says: "From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things." (Proverbs 12:14) Perhaps this is one reason God repeatedly tells us to give thanks – not because He desperately needs our affirmation, but because gratitude changes the giver as well as the receiver. Jesus said: "Give, and it will be given to you… pressed down, shaken together and running over." (Luke 6:38) So here is your 30-second challenge: who could you make richer today with nothing more than a few genuine words? Give thanks. Give encouragement. Give praise. These are riches that truly increase the more you spend. (Craig B). Open Bible – bit.ly/Pro12v14, bit.ly/Luk6v38