DISCERNMENT IN GIVING: AVOID LOSS AND PROTECT YOUR WORTH

 "Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you." Matthew 7:6


Jesus often used figurative language to convey deep spiritual truths. In this case, He is teaching us to be mindful of how we share what we value with others. God’s Word instructs us to love even our enemies, so that we may reflect His nature, as He sends rain to both the righteous and the unrighteous (Matthew 5:43-45). However, while God is loving and merciful, He also sets boundaries.

For example, though God loves all people, not everyone will enter Heaven. Revelation 21:7-8 tells us that only those who are holy will enter because Heaven is a place of great value to God, a place He protects. Similarly, God withholds blessings when they are requested with selfish motives. James 4:3 says, "You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures."

In the same way, we are called to be discerning when helping others. If you know that someone is going to misuse what you give them, you have every right to say no. There’s wisdom in setting boundaries, and saying no does not mean you are unkind. Many times, when people are denied what they want, they may judge or criticize you, calling you selfish or unfeeling. But often, their desire for what you have is driven by harmful intentions, not genuine need.

For instance, imagine giving money to someone who promises to use it for food, only to find out later that they spent it on something destructive. This is like casting your pearls before swine—offering something valuable to someone who does not appreciate or respect it. In such situations, not only is your generosity wasted, but you may also be hurt by their disregard for your kindness.

God understands the pain that comes with this kind of loss. That’s why He calls us to be disciplined in how we give. Discipline means knowing when to say no, protecting your time, energy, and resources, and ensuring that they are used for good, not wasted. If we fail to exercise this discipline, we risk being trampled on, just as Jesus warns in Matthew 7:6. Those we give to carelessly may turn and harm us in return.

Prayer: Oh Lord Jesus, I pray for Your wisdom and courage in the decisions I make. Help me to be discerning and protect me from doing things at a loss. Amen

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