But you say that if anyone declares that what might have been used to help their father or mother is ‘devoted to God,’ they are not to ‘honor their father or mother’ with it. Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition.
— Matthew 15:5–6 (NIV)
In our anchor text today, Jesus confronted the Pharisees for twisting God’s commandments to suit their selfish interests. God’s law clearly instructed children to honor their parents with their substance. However, the Pharisees created a loophole that allowed people to neglect this responsibility as long as they claimed the money was “given to God.” They were not motivated by genuine devotion to God, but by greed and a desire to collect more money from the people.
Sadly, this same spirit still operates in our world today. While the Bible teaches us to give and support the work of God, it does not justify neglecting our families. Some people refuse to meet their parents’ needs or care for their families because they have given all their money to church activities. This is not godliness, it is error.
I once heard of a man whose wife was heavily pregnant, yet he carried all his money to church while she struggled to feed. This is not the way of Christ. When we apply the Scriptures properly, we will find that God is a God of order.
But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
— 1 Timothy 5:8 (NKJV)
True devotion to God is reflected in love, responsibility, and compassion. Neglecting our families in the name of “serving God” is hypocrisy. God is pleased when our acts of worship flow from genuine obedience and love, not from religious pretense.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for teaching me true devotion. Help me to honor You not just in offerings, but in how I care for my family and those You have placed in my life. Give me wisdom to live in balance and to represent You well. Amen.
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