What Does It Mean to Have a Cup of Blessings That Overflows? Question 8.

Jonathan Shuttlesworth, in his book and YouTube blog 35 Questions for Those Who Hate the Prosperity Gospel, poses the question:

“What do you believe it means to have a cup of blessings that overflows?”

Drawing from Psalm 23:5, he argues that the concept of overflow is central to biblical prosperity:

“God does not expect you to give out of what you don’t have or to give if you have nothing. The concept of overflow is having so much that after your own needs are met, there’s enough to share with others.”

He cites Joel 2:24, Proverbs 3:10, and 1 Thessalonians 3:12 to support his assertion that overflow is a Kingdom principle. This blog examines the biblical meaning of “overflow” and whether it aligns with Shuttlesworth’s interpretation.

1. Understanding Psalm 23:5: “My Cup Overflows”

Psalm 23:5 states:

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”

Historical and Literary Context

Psalm 23 is a psalm of trust, celebrating God’s provision, protection, and guidance as the Good Shepherd. The phrase “my cup overflows” symbolizes abundance, but this abundance is primarily spiritual. It reflects the psalmist’s confidence in God’s care and the blessings of His presence, even amid adversaries.

Symbolism of the Cup

In the ancient Near Eastern context, an overflowing cup represented hospitality, favor, and joy. The imagery here conveys the psalmist’s experience of God’s goodness and grace, rather than a material guarantee of wealth or surplus.

2. Biblical References to Overflow

Shuttlesworth connects Psalm 23:5 to other Scriptures to build his case for overflow as a Kingdom principle:

Joel 2:24

“The threshing floors will be filled with grain; the vats will overflow with new wine and oil.”

Joel 2:24 is part of a prophetic promise of restoration to Israel. After a season of judgment and desolation, God promises to restore abundance to His people as a sign of His faithfulness. While this verse speaks of material blessings, it is tied to Israel’s covenant relationship with God and should not be generalized as a universal principle for all believers.

Proverbs 3:10

“Then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”

This verse reflects the principle of sowing and reaping, emphasizing the blessings of honoring God with one’s wealth. However, Proverbs often uses hyperbolic language to convey general truths rather than absolute guarantees. The “overflow” here highlights God’s provision but does not promise unending material prosperity.

1 Thessalonians 3:12

“May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.”

This verse shifts the focus to spiritual abundance, particularly the overflow of love. Paul prays for believers to grow in love, demonstrating that “overflow” in the New Testament often emphasizes spiritual fruit rather than material gain.

3. The Kingdom Principle of Overflow

Shuttlesworth argues that overflow is a consistent biblical theme and defines it as having more than enough to meet one’s needs and bless others. This principle aligns with the biblical call to generosity, but it must be framed within the broader context of Scripture.

God’s Provision and Generosity

• 2 Corinthians 9:8: “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”

  
  

  Paul emphasizes God’s provision for believers to be generous, but the focus is on sufficiency for “good work,” not unlimited wealth.

  
  

• Luke 6:38: “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.”

  
  

  While this verse reflects the blessings of generosity, the “overflow” described is not limited to financial gain but encompasses God’s overall blessings.

  
  

4. Addressing Shuttlesworth’s Claims

Does God Want You to Give Only from Overflow?

Shuttlesworth argues that God does not expect believers to give out of lack, citing the concept of overflow. However, Scripture reveals that sacrificial giving is a hallmark of faithful stewardship:

• Mark 12:41-44: The widow who gave two small coins gave out of her poverty, yet Jesus commended her generosity.

• 2 Corinthians 8:2-3: The Macedonian churches, though poor, gave generously to support others.

  
  

Does Overflow Always Mean Material Abundance?

The biblical concept of overflow is not exclusively material. Spiritual overflow—such as joy, peace, and love—is often emphasized, particularly in the New Testament (e.g., Romans 15:13).

5. A Balanced View of Overflow

Spiritual Overflow

True overflow begins with an abundance of God’s presence and blessings, enabling believers to share His love and provision with others.

• Romans 5:5: “God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.”

• John 10:10: Jesus came to give life “to the full,” emphasizing spiritual abundance.

  
  

Material Overflow

While God does provide for material needs, His blessings do not guarantee wealth. Instead, believers are called to trust in His provision and steward their resources for His glory.

Conclusion: What Does It Mean to Have a Cup of Blessings That Overflows?

The imagery of an overflowing cup in Psalm 23 speaks to the abundant blessings of God’s presence and care. While the Bible includes examples of material overflow, its primary emphasis is on spiritual abundance—love, grace, and the joy of knowing God.

Shuttlesworth’s argument highlights the importance of generosity and stewardship, but Scripture shows that overflow is not limited to financial prosperity. True Kingdom overflow is about sharing God’s spiritual and material blessings with others to advance His purposes.

Author: Evg. Bradley Sliedrecht BCL, M.Div. ✝️📖✨

(PhD Student)