“The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.” — Proverbs 11:25 (NKJV)

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My husband and I took the kids up to a local gym during a recent school break. While my husband did a training run with our oldest son who runs track and cross-country for a local university, I had our younger two boys in the gym playing basketball. Our middle son plays for his high school team and our youngest wanted to practice for his upcoming YMCA winter basketball league. We decided to play a pick-up game: older brother versus mom and little brother.

As we played, I noticed a young boy watching us, and I knew that look: He wanted an invite into the game. I mentioned it to one of my boys, but he was hesitant to say yes. We played a little longer and the boy got up the courage to ask. I wasn’t going to turn him away — I’m the mom in her 40s ready to hop into a pick-up game, so I could relate.

I welcomed him onto our team. We faced off, now 3 vs. 1, and it was a good workout for my older son. After a few minutes of play, the little boy threw me a pass. I was in my sweet spot — the mid-range. I shot the ball and in it went, nothing but net.

I’m guessing the little boy wasn’t used to playing with middle-aged moms, so my shot surprised him. The compliment he gave me made me laugh. He said, “Man, it’s like playing with Steph’s mom.”

It was a reminder of something God’s been teaching me: “He who waters will also be watered himself” (Proverbs 11:25, above). When you feel discouraged or tired, look for ways to “water” someone else. Give them a sincere compliment. Invite them into your circle. Extend hospitality or encouragement. The truth of God’s Word is that He has a heart to see the “cup of cold water” extended to our fellow man, and He has a heart to make sure that when we are thirsty, He repays (Matthew 10:42).

Of course, I’d love to be a starting point guard in the game of life, but God is teaching me one of the best positions on the team is one we often forget about — anyone need a good water girl? Keep me in mind.

— Rachel Gibbons

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