CHAPTER 22
DON’T CAST YOUR PEARLS BEFORE SWINE “Wise conversation is way above the head of fools. In a serious discussion they haven’t a clue.” Proverbs 24:7 (Message)
J
esus restates this same principle in Matthew 7:6. He says it this way, “Don’t give what is holy to dogs, nor cast your pearls before swine. Least they trample them underfoot and turn and tear you in pieces.” In both of these scriptures we are being given the same warning. The warning is to not take what is holy or special, anything of exceptional value, and share it with just anyone. Have you ever made that mistake? Perhaps you had a special experience, something spiritual you discovered in the Bible. You were very excited but when you shared it, that person could care less. Perhaps it was worse. Perhaps, as Jesus said, they turned on you and mocked you for it. In Matthew 7:5 Jesus says, “Hypocrites, first remove the plank out of your own eye, then you will be able to see clearly to remove the speck out of your brother’s eye.” The first step to recognizing with whom you can share valuable information is to be aware of your own condition. Are you sensitive to what others are sharing with you? Or do 134
