Seeds of Wisdom

A WORD OF WISDOM

Matthew 7:6 - “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, nor cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.”

In the above verse, we see Jesus, our master, giving us an instruction that is so dear to Him about our giving. He advises us to give, but he is also interested in the person receiving it. He says we should not give holy things to dogs and pearls to pigs. Our Lord is so direct on this particular instruction. He is not against us giving, but who we give to matters. Check the following rendering: “Do not give what is holy to unholy people. Do not give pearls to swine! They will trample the pearls, then turn and attack you” (Matthew 7:6). If there is something you consider holy or precious to you, do not give it to those who have no idea what it is, to those who do not know its value, or to those who would treat it anyhow. Precious things are given to us by God, and certainly, He wants us to be like Him. Jesus said you even have the danger of the ignorant and proud recipients of your precious gifts turning on you and attacking you. No wonder: sometimes you regret giving some people a chance, an opportunity, or a gift. Though God wants us to be generous, it appears He also wants us to consider the nature of who will receive our gifts. Do not just give anything to anyone. Many make the wrong decision because they want to please or want a favour from someone. If you want to give something precious, both physical and spiritual, to someone, then look out for someone who values what you give. Your precious things would be appreciated and handled better by some people. They would benefit more from it. Think before you give some precious things, including your time and shows of affection that cost you greatly.

Further Reading: Matthew 7:1–15, Matthew 5:1-48, Luke. 17:11-19, John. 5:1-54

Prayer: Pray that God help you to value you.