RE Verse reading–Matthew 7:1-27 (day five) “Do not give dogs what is sacred, do not throw your pearls to pigs” (vs 6) While Jesus forbids us from being harsh and unfair in our judgement of others (vs 1), He also requires us to be aware of abusers. “This is a plea to be generous not a requirement to be blind”, says John Stott. To recognize the “dogs and pigs” (those who will reject our message and harm us for the effort) is a dark duty, but it must be done. This discernment is more than permitted, it is required. “But Jesus. . .was not entrusting Himself to them, for He knew. . .what was in man” (John 2:24) It takes great courage to “shake off the dust from your feet” (Luke 9:5) and walk away from a destructive relationship. “Know when to walk away, and know when to RUN” says the old song. This is a difficult balance to find. May the Lord give us wisdom.
