«Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.»
Luke 6:38
📜 The Verse in Different Translations — Luke 6:38
NIV
«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.»
ESV
«Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.»
KJV
«Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.»
📌 Luke 6:38
🏛️ Historical and Biblical Context
Luke 6:38 is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Plain, where He teaches about the kingdom principles of generosity and divine reciprocity. In biblical times, giving was a vital part of community life, especially among the early Christians who relied on mutual support. Jesus emphasizes that generous giving is not only a duty but also a means of receiving blessings in return. The phrase ‘good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over’ illustrates abundant blessing, reflecting God’s overflowing grace. This verse underscores the biblical principle that our generosity reflects our trust in God’s provision and His desire to bless those who give cheerfully. Historically, the concept of giving to the poor and supporting the community was central to biblical law and practice, seen in the Old Testament laws of tithes and offerings. Jesus’ teaching elevates this to a spiritual principle: that God’s economy operates on generosity and trust, encouraging believers to give freely, knowing that God will supply their needs abundantly.
«He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.»
Highlights the divine reward for showing mercy and generosity to the poor.
Proverbs 28:27
«He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.»
Emphasizes that generosity to the needy results in God's provision.
Matthew 6:3-4
«But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.»
Teaches the importance of sincere giving without seeking recognition.
2 Corinthians 9:7
«Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.»
Encourages cheerful and voluntary giving.
Acts 20:35
«I have shewed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.»
Reminds believers of the blessing found in giving.
💡 Practical Reflection for Your Life
Generosity is a core principle woven throughout Scripture, reflecting God’s own nature as a generous and loving Creator. As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate God’s kindness by giving freely to those in need. The Bible teaches that our giving should be motivated by love and compassion, not obligation or recognition. When we give cheerfully and sincerely, we participate in God’s divine economy, which promises that our generosity will be rewarded in ways beyond material wealth. Practically, generosity involves more than just financial support; it encompasses time, kindness, and service. In a world often driven by selfishness, biblical generosity stands as a powerful testimony of faith and trust in God’s provision. It reminds us that our resources are ultimately God’s, and we are merely stewards. Cultivating a generous spirit not only blesses others but also enriches our own spiritual lives, fostering humility, gratitude, and dependence on God’s grace. Let us remember that true generosity flows from a heart transformed by God’s love, seeking to bless others as we have been blessed in Christ.
🙏 Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your endless generosity and love towards us. You have given us everything we need and more through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Teach us to be cheerful givers, trusting in Your promise to supply all our needs. Help us to see the needs around us and respond with compassion and kindness. May our hearts be open to giving not just out of obligation, but out of genuine love and gratitude. Let our generosity reflect Your character and bring glory to Your name. Strengthen us to support the weak, the poor, and those in distress, knowing that in giving, we participate in Your divine work of redemption. Fill our hearts with joy as we give, and remind us that in giving, we receive the blessings of Your kingdom. May our lives be a testimony of Your grace, and may we always remember that it is more blessed to give than to receive. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Bible teach that we should give to the poor?
Yes, numerous verses such as Proverbs 19:17 and Luke 6:38 emphasize the importance of supporting those in need.
❓ Is giving to God the same as giving to others?
Biblically, giving to God includes supporting His work and helping others, as both are acts of worship and obedience.
❓ What does the Bible say about the attitude of giving?
The Bible encourages cheerful, voluntary giving motivated by love, not obligation, as seen in 2 Corinthians 9:7.
Por Fernando Ortiz 
