The King James version is referenced in this teaching. However, for the sake of simplicity and clarity, I’ve swapped out the “you,” “eth,” “ist,” “thou,” and such old-timey terms for modern language. Rest assured, I’ve NOT changed any verses or their meanings. The italicized words you see? They were added in the KJV to “help” us mere mortals understand better. But let’s face it – sometimes they end up changing the whole vibe of a verse! I dare you to read the verse without those words. Who knows? It might just brighten your day!**
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Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick (that means “alive,” not “Whoa, quick, run!”), powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow. It’s a real mind-reader—discerning our thoughts and intentions! So yeah, no hiding your deepest secrets from God. Everything we think, say, and do will come full circle. Remember that the next time you’re crafting a plot twist in your life!
Matthew 10:26 Don’t fear them, because there’s nothing covered that shall not be revealed. Those secrets of yours? Just like bad Wi-Fi, they’re bound to drop at the most inconvenient time!
In Luke 8:17, we learn that “nothing is secret that won’t be made manifest; neither anything hid that will not be known.” This means that no matter how hard we try to keep things buried—our thoughts, our mistakes, or even our little quirks—eventually, the truth has a way of coming out. It’s a reminder that honesty is the best policy because, honestly, trying to hide things is like trying to keep a beach ball underwater; it’ll only pop up when you least expect it!
In Luke 6:38, the principle of giving is beautifully summarized: “Give, and it shall be given unto you—good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over.” This verse teaches us that when we generously share with others, whether it’s our time, resources, or kindness, we often receive even more in return—sometimes in ways we might not expect. The imagery of blessings being “pressed down” and “running over” suggests that generosity creates a cycle of abundance, enriching our lives and fostering deeper connections with those around us. In essence, giving not only benefits others but also opens our hearts to a wealth of joy and fulfillment.
2 Corinthians 9:7-8 Everyone should give what they’ve decided in their hearts—not grudgingly or because they’re forced. God loves a cheerful giver! And God can make all grace abound towards you, so you’ll have what you need for every good work—like the ultimate life hack!
Matthew 7:6 Don’t give what’s holy to the dogs, or toss your pearls before swine, lest they trample them and turn on you. This is a reminder not to waste your valuable insights on those who won’t appreciate them—like giving pearls to pigs who’d just trample them underfoot. Think of it this way: sharing something sacred with the wrong crowd is like trying to teach a dog to appreciate fine art; they’re just going to bark at it and move on! So, save your pearls for those who will truly value them!
Psalm 1:1-3 Blessed is the individual who doesn’t hang out with the wrong crowd or take a seat at the “I’m too cool for school” table. But their delight is in the law of the LORD; they meditate on it day and night. Picture them as a tree planted by streams of water—bearing fruit like it’s going out of style and thriving like a plant in a high-tech greenhouse!
There are loads of ways to give: Not just money or gifts but friendship, support, listening, or lending a hand to someone who needs it. Sometimes all it takes is just “being there”—like a human pillow!
But there’s a fine line between giving out of genuine kindness and giving just to score brownie points. Here’s what you should ask yourself:
1. What’s the real motivation behind my gift?
2. Do I secretly hope for something in return, like a favor or an endless supply of cookies?
Let’s be honest: When giving things like money, many people hope to get something in return (like the warm, fuzzy feeling of being a generous soul). Even in conversations, we sometimes want to hear our own voices more than listening to others, which can lead to awkward interruptions, impatient gestures, or even a casual “I’m outta here!” exit. And let’s not forget there are folks who just take, take, take and don’t give anything back—like a one-sided relationship with a vacuum cleaner!
Scripture teaches us about listening, helping, and sharing—not just throwing money at problems or piling up promises. We’re called to help out the fatherless, homeless, widows, and orphans—a true community effort resembling a big potluck!
Now, here’s where things might take a turn. The church often touts that you should give 10 percent of your income to pastors who might just be living it up while you’re over here counting pennies. But the original tithing structure said that the priests were to receive only a fraction of what was given…and the rest? A lovely feast with family and those in need! Sounds like a party I’m in for! In other words they were to receive only 10% of that 10%! and that wasn’t supposed to be money… but meats and that other 9% was supposed to be shared with the fatherless, orphans and widows.
Matthew 5:46-47 If you love those who love you back, what credit is that to you? Even the tax collectors do that! Yes, loving your family is sweet, but truly loving the unlovable—that’s where it gets interesting! And if you greet only your buddies, how’s that special? Even the tax collectors do the “hi” wave, right?
You know, saying “hello” to a stranger might be the highlight of their day! Seriously, diving into a brief chat with someone could boost their mood, and who knows? You might make a friend—or at least a warm memory.
But maybe it’s time to flip the script and just listen. Sometimes people need to vent. If you can just give them a friendly ear, it might make all the difference. The power of listening is real—who doesn’t love a good “I’m here for you” moment?
Matthew 6:14-15 If you forgive others, your heavenly Father will forgive you, but if you don’t forgive, well, it’s the opposite story. (And no one wants to be on the bad side of divine forgiveness!)
It’s simple: We forgive through giving, listening, and helping.
Matthew 6:19-21 Don’t hoard treasures on this earth where moths feast and thieves break in. Instead, invest in treasures in heaven because where your treasure is, there your heart will be. This reminds us that collecting things is like trying to catch smoke with your bare hands. It’s just not worth it! Instead of hoarding stuff that might end up in a yard sale, why not invest in love and kindness? Every act of generosity adds a shiny gem to your heart’s treasure chest, way more valuable than your dusty old Beanie Babies! So, let’s spread joy and laughter instead of gathering clutter—because the only thing that should collect dust is that treadmill you promised to use!
We’re all guilty of holding onto things we don’t really need—like those old VHS tapes you promised yourself you’d watch one day. Meanwhile, people out there are struggling! And remember, when you die, you can’t take your collection of “some assembly required” furniture with you!
Matthew 7:11 If you, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your kids, how much more will your heavenly Father give you good things? If we, as imperfect humans, know how to give good gifts to our children, imagine the abundant goodness our heavenly Father has ready for us! Just as we delight in providing for our loved ones, God’s generosity toward us is even greater. It’s a beautiful reminder that He wants to bless our lives with truly good things, beyond what we can imagine.
So what’s the takeaway today? Giving isn’t about what you can get; it’s about what you can do for others. Selfishness breeds discontent and ruins relationships faster than a bad dinner party!
To conquer that selfish dragon, start with a good heart-to-heart with God and those you’ve wronged. Don’t forget to forgive yourself, too; it’s crucial!
Give away what’s extra to those who need it—no strings attached. Charity is like a boomerang; throw it out with good intent, and it’ll come back in ways beyond your wildest dreams!
Luke 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you—good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, folks will pour into your lap. Your kindness might just knock on your door unannounced!
And the last part? “With the same measure you give, it’ll come back to you.” So, if you’re giving love, you’ll get love in return. But if you’re giving with greed? Well, good luck with that!
Tithing is an entirely different topic! Most churches twist it for their own gain, but the truth is that Israel was instructed to share what they had with the needy—not just sugarcoat it with “10 percent to the big guy upstairs.”
Finally, Jeremiah 23:1-2 reminds us—those who mislead and scatter the people will surely face consequences.
Selfishness, often like a stubborn weed in a garden, can choke the beauty and joy out of our lives. It’s that little voice that whispers, “Me first!” while we ignore the needs of those around us. But here’s the kicker: God sees all. When we cling to our desires like a toddler to a cookie jar, we might just be inviting a sprinkling of divine discipline. Think of it as God’s gentle nudge—like your mom’s reminder not to eat dessert before dinner. He wants us to share and care, rather than hoard our blessings like a dragon guarding its treasure.
Now, don’t get too downcast! God’s punishments often come with a twist of humor. Picture this: a truly selfish person gets a taste of their own medicine when they attempt to call dibs on the last slice of pizza at a gathering, only to find it mysteriously eaten by a friend who had less than stellar etiquette. It’s as if God is saying, “Maybe sharing isn’t such a bad idea after all!” Ultimately, God desires our hearts to be filled with love and generosity, not just a never-ending
wish list of “mine, mine, mine!” So, the next time you feel that urge to be selfish, remember: the joy of giving is far sweeter than the temporary satisfaction of keeping it all for yourself!
Remember to embrace love and generosity, and keep the faith!
Keep your wicks trimmed and your lamps filled with oil—the KING is coming soon! And may you be ready with open arms and a heart full of goodness! ✨