Proverbs 18:16

[Christ's disciple]

Recently Proverbs 18:16 was given to me by a friend, as an encouragement verse.  After doing some study on it, I find that it could also have a negative connotation.  Any thoughts on this verse?  It was given to me to help strengthen my faith about a friend's gifts--they were unemployed and this verse was an encouragement that God has a plan for us and will make use of our gifts if we let him.

[Wandering Saint]

I am assuming that you might think this piece of scripture is talking about bribery.  Generosity often softens peoples hearts.  An act of kindness may, and often has, opened the door to witness to people.

[Whitehorse]

I think it's saying if we are good stewards of the talents God gives us, we will be given great opportunities to use them.

Probably this refers not only to our care in developing the gift itself, but in using it for the sole glory of the Lord, although this isn't stated in this particular verse. It's a principle assumed because of other parts of the Bible: "Study to show your self approved by God..." Does anyone remember where that verse is? I saw it a couple of nights ago but can't remember where.