A Good Eye

   He who is generous will be blessed, 
   For he gives some of his food to the poor.
   --Proverbs 22:9

The first phrase in the original text literally reads: “He who has a good eye will be blessed.” The 'good eye' is not about visual acuity or a healthy eye, but rather the idea of goodness or kindness. Of course, eyes are commonly used to emphasize awareness, and that seems to be the case in this proverb. So, you might say that the 'good eye' is also a sharp eye that is aware of things going on around it.

   "He who has a good, sharp eye will be blessed..."

The person with a ‘good eye’ is one who is aware of those around him and their needs. Along with his keen awareness is a heart of compassion. He looks with a ‘good eye’ of tenderness toward the needy and is moved in his heart.

However, he does not merely see with a keen eye; he is not merely moved by a heart of compassion; he acts. He gives. He shares some of his food with the poor.

This one will be blessed.

The meaning of the word bless is rooted in prayer and praise toward God. It actually means ‘to kneel.’ That is a fitting picture when we think of man ‘blessing’ God. However, it does not fit at all when we think of God blessing man.

When God blesses man, the idea is not that God kneels. Rather, the word takes it meaning from the idea of speaking good things to or about another. So, when man speaks good things to God and about God, he praises. yet, when God speaks good things toward man...

Think for a moment about the nature of God’s speech. In the Genesis account of creation God spoke, “Let there be light.”

What happened when God spoke?
"There was light.”

Does that produce a sense of awe and amazement as you reflect on that event? Do we truly recognize the power and authority and wonder of God's spoken word? If God speaks a blessing to man, it will come about.

   He who has a good eye will be blessed,
   For he gives some of his food to the poor.

Do you have a good eye?
If so, God will speak a blessing for you.