“He who waters will also be watered himself” (Prov. 11:25 NKJ).
Our English language sometimes confines our understanding of Biblical principles. Twice in this verse we find a form of the word water. At face value, we could assume we are being told here that if we give someone a cup of water, then sooner or later someone else will give us a cup of water in return. That interpretation is only partially accurate.
This principle of reciprocity is found throughout the Bible. For example, “Give and it shall be given unto you…” (Luke 6:38). “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you…” (James 4:8). However, this verse promises far more than a simple “tit for tat.” It has a greater dimension than reaping (only) what we have sown.
A look at a Hebrew-English lexicon will reveal there are two different Hebrew words used here – both highly significant. The first word translated waters is ravah (raw-vaw’) and has to do with satisfying a thirst. In Christian circles, this action would be the same as giving a person a cup of cold water in the name of the Lord.
The second Hebrew word translated watered is yara (yaw- raw’), meaning “to pour out like rain, descend like a shower, fill up by a deluge, flow like waters from a cloud-burst.”
So, with a little imagination, we could interpret this verse: “If you give someone a cup of cold water in the name of the Lord, He will give back to you the whole reservoir!” What a promise!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.