A Day-by-day devotional

March 25, 2023

Pearls

Chronological One Year Bible Reading Plan: Joshua 16-19

Scripture of the Day: Matthew 7:6

What woman doesn’t like pearls? They’re simple, yet at the same time elegant. The beauty of the pearl surpasses many other jewels.

In the bible, Jesus likens the gospel to pearls. The good news of our salvation is endowed with such worth that Jesus admonished that it not be cast to swine.

Everybody needs to hear the gospel. That is also what the Lord has commissioned us to do. Nonetheless, if we share it to those who do nothing but constantly ridicule, blaspheme and mock it, we are to leave it. It is true that we should not give up in declaring the good news. However, in instances where it is not accepted no matter how many times you have tried, your efforts are wasted. You just need to be accepting of the fact that in this case, you need to leave it and just wait for the next possible person to share it with.

It doesn’t mean we have to give up sharing the good news. On the contrary, the time and energy we apparently waste with those who aren’t willing to receive and just continually reject it, could be used to share it with those who would openly receive it.

Jesus also told His disciples when He sent them to the mission field, to shake off the dust off their sandals and leave immediately whenever they go to preach the gospel somewhere that it is not welcomed (Matthew 10:14). He means time and effort should not be wasted. Pigs would never appreciate pearls.

If our efforts sharing the gospel to the same people are always met with a deaf ear, or a hardened heart, we must not make a cycle out of it. It is not our responsibility to make them accept the gospel. The Holy Spirit works that in them. It is their decision whether to accept it or not.

So, when you have discerned that you have been sharing it to no sign of acceptance, but only shaming, stop. Move on to the next person.

Reflection: Have you been sharing the gospel to the same people who would continually mock it? You have done your job. Continue to show them love, but you do not have to repeat sharing. Let the Holy Spirit work in their hearts. In the end, they are the ones who have to decide.

Prayer: Lord, please give me the discernment whenever I share the gospel with someone. Give me a compassionate heart. Nonetheless, guide me when to speak, when to refrain from speaking, and when to stop and move on to the next person. I know you will have your way with each and everyone. Amen.