Using Large Measuring Cups

Text: Luke 6:37-38 Theme: What we do for others will determine what gets done to us. Key verses: “Do not judge, and you will not be judged…Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give and it will be given to you…For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (v. 37-38) What God said to me: Son, make it a solemn and holy habit in your life to give freely and often to others. Guard your thoughts and words against pre-judging others. Carefully consider: “Do I talk about people or belittle them or think I’m better in some way than they?” Furthermore, look around to those I have put in your path. Who can you bless through giving them your time or money or help? Never be stingy what you wish not to be withheld from you. This teaching may seem designed to appeal to your carnal ways–as though Jesus was giving you selfish motivation to give to others, thereby receiving reward for yourself. But that is not the essence of this passage. Rather, Jesus was simply laying out the facts. One thing leads to the other. Your motivation–as emphasized so many other times by Jesus–is to do all for my glory and not for your personal gain. You should love others, expecting no love in return. If fact, look back up to what Jesus had just said in this sermon on the plain to hear him teach that very principle. Yet, when you do give freely and abundantly, just know that I will never allow you to go without. You will never outgive me. What I said to God: Lord, is this my answer to whether I should go to Botswana? Have I been selfishly trying to hold on to my advance check and other monies? Should my family and I let go of all our plans and hopes to be debt-free this year? Will You be more honored if we instead use what we have to bless the people of Botswana? I know being debt-free is Your will too though. Am I being selfish and presumptious to expect You to return our funds so we can still meet our own financial goals? If I am understanding this passage correctly, that is exactly what I can expect. Hallelujah! Thank You, my Father, for always providing for us and doing exceedingly abundantly above all we can ask or think! I love You. Help me show my love for You by freely giving to others today.