What does Proverbs 11:26 mean?

This continues to expound the theme of the last few verses. Those who are generous and kind towards others gain a good reputation, which serves them well and results in greater benefits (Proverbs 11:24–25). Those who are greedy can anticipate a cold response from others.

The imagery here is some crisis where food or grain is scarce. This might be a famine or other disaster. In that case, a greedy person might decide to hoard supplies, looking to profit from the desperation of others. That would allow the hoarder to charge a higher price as grain became scarce. The result of this is common sense: the people would curse them for doing so. However, a farmer who sold his grain, even in a crisis, to those who needed it, would be praised. Joseph's extensive preparations put Egypt in a position to feed others during a famine, greatly increasing their reputation (Genesis 41:56–57).

The spiritual counterpart applies to believers and the Bread of Life. We are charged with the privilege and responsibility of sharing the Bread of Life with those who need it. If we withhold it, we deprive people of the opportunity to end their spiritual starvation. If we share it, people will have an opportunity to be fed spiritually. In turn, they will bless us, and not curse us. Like Paul, we are under obligation to all people, and should be eager to proclaim the gospel (Romans 1:14–15).