“The love you take is equal to the love you make” is a philosophical closing lyric from The Beatles’ song “The End” (1969), meaning the affection, kindness, and positivity you give to the world (make) is ultimately what you receive in return (take). It serves as a metaphor for karma or the “golden rule,” suggesting that, in the end, life balances out based on the love and effort you invest in others. Source – AI Overview.

It could be said that charity, which comes from the Latin word “caritas,” is a form of love. It is about giving. Agape goes further and gives unconditionally, which C S Lewis claimed to be the highest form of love. It is something that we ascribe to God, in His grace (gift) of undeserved favour. While we mortal humans are not Gods, surely there are things we can do as humans, that emulate God’s love? What does it say in the bible about giving and reciving?

Receiving a “double portion” in the Bible signifies a special inheritance, blessing, or, most notably, a successor’s request for twice the spiritual authority of their predecessor. It is rooted in the law of the firstborn (Deuteronomy 21:17) and famously depicted when Elisha requested and received a double portion of Elijah’s spirit (2 Kings 2:9-10).
• Elisha’s Request (2 Kings 2:9-10): Elisha asked Elijah for a “double portion” of his spirit before Elijah was taken to heaven. This was not necessarily for twice the power, but for the status of the firstborn son—the designated, legitimate successor to the prophetic ministry.
• Firstborn Inheritance Law (Deuteronomy 21:15-17): Under Mosaic law, the firstborn son was entitled to a double portion of his father’s estate, symbolizing his role as leader and pre-eminent heir.
• Prophetic Promise (Isaiah 61:7): God promises that instead of shame and humiliation, His people will receive a “double portion” of joy and inheritance in their land.
• Job’s Restoration (Job 42:10): God gave Job twice as much as he had before his trials, demonstrating a “double for the trouble” blessing.
• Spiritual Significance in the New Testament: Believers are considered co-heirs with Christ, partaking in a spiritual, and eternal inheritance.

So, in conclusion, according to Paul McCartney, we get back what we give. And according to the Bible we get back twice what we give. But I claim that neither should be the motivation for giving. Better to not mind what comes back and if something does, it’s a bonus.