(Matthew 5:40-48)
And if anyone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak also.TODAY'S TAKEAWAY
In this hyperbole scenario, "under Jewish law, a legal case to regain one’s cloak would have been foolproof. A creditor could not take a poor person’s outer cloak, which might serve as one’s only blanket at night as well as a coat (Ex 22:26-27)." By settling outside of court, one can avoid legal disputes which affect only oneself, and it is a practical way to try to keep a situation as peaceful as possible.
Although, the main point of what Jesus is saying is that, as believers, we are to value relationships supremely and be motivated by godly (agape) love, which is unconditional and sacrificial. In this unselfishness, we are to regard possessions as nothing. People and their salvation are far more important than having things!
In our relationship with the Lord, Who loves people so much that He came in flesh to die in our place to pay the price for sin... He will help us love others in the same unconditional and sacrificial way. This love is not of ourselves, it is God's love! And as we see the eternal benefits of having a relationship with God, we should also desire that all come to know Him in the same way!
This is ultimately our main purpose in life! And for us to follow through and be obedient to this calling, requires us to humbly confess and turn away from greed, and self-centered desires, preferences and selfishness. What helps is when we realize the true value of having God in our lives, and in embracing Him and His will, we are made complete. Only in the Lord will we experience His true peace, joy, fulfillment, contentment and satisfaction!
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