Daily Bible Verse: November 26th, 2025

“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” — Luke 6:38 (NIV)

The Context of Luke 6:38

Luke 6:38 is one of those verses that often finds its way into sermons about generosity, tithing, and sometimes even prosperity. But as with many passages in the Bible, the depth of meaning in Christ’s words goes far beyond the surface. To truly appreciate and apply this scripture, it’s important to understand its context within the Gospel of Luke.

Jesus, in Luke 6, is delivering what many call the “Sermon on the Plain,” a message with themes similar to the Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew. Jesus addresses not only the crowd but also His disciples, giving practical and spiritual advice on how to live as citizens of God’s kingdom. The preceding verses touch on topics like loving your enemies, not judging, and forgiving others. It’s in this flow that Jesus says, “Give, and it will be given to you.”

The Principle of Generosity

At its core, Luke 6:38 is about generosity—generosity not just with money but with all aspects of our lives: love, forgiveness, patience, and kindness. Jesus is teaching that the way we treat others, the way we give of ourselves, sets the standard for what we receive in return. This is not a transactional promise, but a spiritual principle. The “measure” we use is not merely a cup or a basket; it’s the attitude and intent behind our actions.

When I think about this verse, I realize how easy it is to give reluctantly or with strings attached. Sometimes, I’ve given time or resources expecting something in return, even if subconsciously. Jesus, however, calls us to give freely, trusting that God is the one who rewards us—often in ways we never expect.

Pressed Down, Shaken Together, and Running Over

The imagery Jesus uses is striking. In biblical times, when grain was measured out, a generous seller would fill the container, shake it to let the grains settle, press it down, and then add more until it overflowed. This is the picture of abundance, of generosity without holding back.

God’s blessings don’t come to us in stingy or measured amounts. When we live open-handedly, God responds with abundance—sometimes material, but more often in joy, peace, relationships, and opportunities. There have been moments in my life when I gave, not knowing how my own needs would be met, only to see unexpected provision arrive at just the right time. This wasn’t always financial; sometimes it was through encouragement, friendship, or a renewed sense of purpose.

The Measure You Use

“For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” This part of the verse is both comforting and challenging. It suggests responsibility—I am invited to set the standard for my own experience of life’s blessings. If I sow sparingly, I reap sparingly. If I give generously, I reap generously.

But this isn’t about manipulating God or others. It’s a call to authenticity, to check my motives. Am I giving to get, or giving out of gratitude? Am I being generous because I want to look good, or because I want to reflect God’s heart? I remember a season where I struggled to forgive someone who had hurt me deeply. Holding onto resentment felt justified, but it left me feeling bitter and closed off. When I finally chose to forgive, not because I felt like it but because I knew it was right, I experienced a new freedom. It was as if the “measure” of grace I offered was poured back into my own heart, pressed down and running over.

Personal Reflection: Lessons in Generosity

Reflecting on Luke 6:38, I see areas where I have grown and others where I still have much to learn. There have been times when I gave generously—of my time, resources, or encouragement—and was surprised by the unexpected ways God blessed me. Other times, I withheld out of fear or selfishness and found myself feeling empty and disconnected.

One story stands out to me. Several years ago, I met a neighbor who was going through a difficult time. Initially, I hesitated to get involved. My schedule was full, and I doubted I could make a difference. But I felt a nudge in my spirit to offer help. I started with small gestures—a meal, a listening ear, a ride to the store. Over time, our relationship grew, and I realized that as much as I was giving, I was receiving even more. I gained a friend, a new perspective, and a deeper understanding of compassion. The “good measure” Jesus spoke of became real in our shared laughter and mutual support.

Giving Beyond Material Wealth

It’s easy to read Luke 6:38 and think only of money or material possessions. But Jesus’ words encompass so much more. We can give our time, attention, encouragement, forgiveness, and love. Sometimes, the most valuable gifts are those that cost us nothing but mean everything to someone else.

In my own life, there have been seasons when I had little to give financially but could offer a smile, a helping hand, or a prayer. I’ve learned that generosity is not about the size of the gift but the size of the heart behind it. Even small acts of kindness can have a ripple effect, touching lives in ways we may never fully see.

The Challenge of a Generous Life

Living out Luke 6:38 isn’t always easy. Our culture often encourages accumulation, self-protection, and comparison. It’s natural to want to hold onto what we have, to measure out our generosity carefully. But Jesus calls us to a different way—to trust that as we pour out, we will be filled.

There have been times when I hesitated to give, worried that my own needs would go unmet. But looking back, I see that God was faithful. The times I risked generosity—whether through giving, forgiving, or serving—were the times I experienced God’s love most deeply. It’s a paradox: in losing my life, I found it. In giving, I received.

Generosity as a Reflection of God’s Character

Ultimately, Luke 6:38 points us to the character of God. He is extravagant in His love, mercy, and provision. The greatest act of generosity was Jesus’ own sacrifice on the cross. When we give, we reflect the heart of our Heavenly Father.

I’ve come to realize that generosity is less about what I do and more about who I am becoming. It’s an invitation to trust God, to live open-handedly, and to believe that no act of kindness is wasted. Each time I choose to give, I participate in the flow of God’s grace, both receiving and passing it along.

Practical Ways to Live Out Luke 6:38

If you’re wondering how to put this verse into practice, here are a few ideas that have helped me:

• Look for opportunities to give without expecting anything in return.
• Practice forgiveness, even when it’s hard.
• Share your time and skills with those in need.
• Encourage someone who is struggling.
• Be generous with your words—offer gratitude, affirmation, and blessing.

Small steps lead to big changes. The more I practice generosity, the more natural it becomes. And the more I experience the joy that comes from giving.