Wasting Time on the Wrong People

January 31, 2023

Matthew 7:6 | Proverbs 9:7-12

These words from Jesus might seem surprising to some people. Conventional human belief about the love of Jesus (and God) would say that Jesus has enough patience for anyone. Any person. No matter the situation.

But here, Jesus instructs his followers not to waste time and energy in certain situations with particular people. Wisdom, time, and discernment will help us define what holy things and pearls are, and we can say the same for understanding who the dogs and pigs are. (It might be notable that the person who acts as pig one day could be our responsibility for love and care the next.)

But in the meantime, apparently it’s not only okay to steward our time responsibly according to our best prospects of having success with this or that…but it’s necessary. We can even regard it as a command of Christ.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that we give up on people. Jesus didn’t and Christ doesn’t. But we should take care to measure our opportunity and act accordingly.

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Matthew 7:6

“Don’t give holy things to dogs, and don’t throw your pearls in front of pigs. They will stomp on the pearls, then turn around and attack you.”

Proverbs 9:7-12

Whoever instructs the cynic gets insulted;
    whoever corrects the wicked gets hurt.
Don’t correct the impudent, or they will hate you;
    correct the wise, and they will love you.
Teach the wise, and they will become wiser;
    inform the righteous, and their learning will increase.
The beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord;
    the knowledge of the holy one is understanding.
Through me your days will be many;
    years will be added to your life.
If you are wise, it is to your benefit;
    if you are cynical, you will bear it all alone.

Prayer

God, you made this day with 24 hours in it. Help me do well with it. Frankly, it seems like I have much to do. And I do. But give me the wisdom to pick and choose with love, care, and good stewardship of myself, others, and resources. Give me the courage to notice, to respond, and to act. But also give me the gumption to say no, to choose to ignore, and to let many things be. Help me know where and when, if at all. Give me the eyes of Christ who saw her, healed him, and walked by others. I pray it in his name and by your Spirit, Amen.