CONCERT OF PRAYER

Pray Week 891

“The Measure You Use”

…For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” (Luke 6:38)

This Biblical principle of measurement is as true and solid as the principle of sowing and reaping. This Scripture is often used in reference to the giving of material goods and while that is one aspect of this teaching it is not the only thing Jesus was talking about. Jesus began His discourse leading up to our reference verse 38 talking about loving our enemies. He exhorts us to do good to those who hate us, bless those who curse us, and pray for those who abuse us. (vv 27, 28) He is speaking about measuring out love to more than only those who love us in return. He is speaking of measuring it out pressed down, shaken and running over to those that the world would say do not deserve it.

The world cannot understand this principle and Christians who follow this teaching of Jesus are called ‘suckers’ and ‘doormats’. Jesus addresses this in verses 32-34 where He talks about how this makes Christians different from those that are of the world and do not follow Him.

Jesus continues His discourse speaking of measuring out good, mercy, and forgiveness. (vv 35-36)

Christians are to be ‘Christ-like’. We are to exhibit the character of God by the power of His indwelling Holy Spirit. Here Jesus tells us that God is kind and merciful – even to those who are ungrateful and evil.

He goes on to exhort us not to judge or condemn but rather to measure out forgiveness. Remember when Jesus taught us to pray to the Father He stated ‘Forgive us…as we forgive others’ (Matthew 6:12)

Every one of us can recall at least one individual who has ‘done us dirty’ in the past. How do you feel about them today? You may say you have forgiven them but do you love them? Can you speak blessing over them and pray for them with a sincere heart? Would you measure out good to them should the opportunity present itself?

For many of us, forgiveness equates to avoiding. We act out our ‘forgiveness’ by making sure we never cross paths or speak to the other person again. We behave as if the other person does not exist, yet God wants the exact opposite from us. If we truly forgive as God forgives, we will be proactive in reaching out to the other person in love. The world says ‘sucker!’ while Jesus says ‘Well done, good and faithful servant’.

What measure do you use in measuring out forgiveness, love, blessing, prayer and good? The truth of God’s Word says that same measure will be used by God for you. Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap… (Luke 6:38)

May we have the grace to give a full measure of love and forgiveness to others as God has abundantly measured His love and forgiveness to us through the death of His Son, Jesus. May the Holy Spirit empower us with grace and mercy to be a blessing to those who are hateful toward us – not for our glory but rather to glorify God.