The Secret was a 2006 movie, by Rhonda Byren, that created unexpected discord. Byren's basic premise was that you could "will" good things to happen to you if you just believed that they would. Some loved the movie (and subsequent book), and others felt like it rejected God by placing the person in charge of his or her own destiny. Regardless of where you landed on the widespread "debate" surrounding this popular but controversial movie, there is something to be said for and attitude of optimism, and also the belief that "what goes around comes around."

We've all heard the famous colloquialism, "You reap what you sow." The Apostle Paul may very well be the source of this aphorism, because some 2,000 years ago he taught "whatsoever a man sows, that is what he will reap." (Galatians 6:7) Similarly, in our proverb for today, we're told if you give, you will have plenty; and if you refuse to share, you'll have curses. In other words, scripturally speaking, it really is the case that "what goes around comes around." No, we're not saying if you just believe, the perfect parking spot will open up right in front of the store. But the proverb certainly does suggest that there is a "cause and effect" that happens in life. Many of us have experienced the truth that, as we are generous with others, God just seems to be very generous with us. As we give freely of what we have, God seems to give us unexpected windfalls to fill our emptying pockets with an abundance.

This is not some divine lottery system. Nor is it a scriptural explanation as to how to get rich. But it may be the very truth taught the Dicken's A Christmas Carol. When Scrooge held back his means, his life seemed to be filled with curses and misery. And when he chose to be generous, he was shocked at the newfound joy and blessings. He wasn't any wealthier—but he sure felt more wealthy, and his blessings seemed more evident in addition to "going farther" than they did when he horded them. Don't believe it? Well, test the proverb. Start living a more generous and thoughtful life, and see if you don't feel more joy, more blessings, and even a greater sense that God is and will take care of you!