Helping others often comes back to us in unexpected ways. As we’ve grown older, we’ve come to understand that kindness and favor flow in a cycle. When you show favor to others, it often returns to you, sometimes from places you’d least expect. The Bible reminds us that God rewards those who show kindness to others (Luke 6:38) says, “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.”
In this verse, Jesus is speaking to the crowd of HIS followers. HE is teaching them about generosity and the principle of reciprocity or exchange in God’s Kingdom. The passage emphasizes that when you give — whether it’s love, kindness, money, or any other form of generosity — God will ensure that you receive back in an abundant and overflowing way. Jesus uses the imagery of a measure being “pressed down” and “shaken together” to signify that God’s blessings, when returned, will be overflowing and far greater than what you initially gave.
Moreover, the deeper meaning here is that generosity both in material and spiritual ways, is not only an act of kindness but also a reflection of God’s character, and HE rewards those who live out this generosity. This verse also highlights the importance of the attitude behind giving — it should be done with a heart that desires to bless others, and in return, God blesses the giver.
In Scriptural context, “favor” carries rich theological meaning, often used to describe God’s grace, kindness, and approval toward individuals or groups.
In the Bible, favor is most often associated with God’s unmerited grace. It represents His goodwill, blessings, and active support in the lives of people. God’s favor is not earned by human effort but is a gift of HIS grace.
Favor also signifies God’s approval, protection, and blessing in a person’s life. When God shows favor, HE bestows protection, peace, prosperity, and guidance.
Favor in Relationships (Mutual Respect and Kindness)
In human relationships, favor can refer to kindness, goodwill, or acts of grace that one person shows to another. (Proverbs 3:4) states, “Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” Here, favor is not only the blessing of God but also the respect and goodwill one earns from others through wise living.
Reciprocity:
The idea of reciprocity is also central to the biblical concept of favor. God rewards those who show favor to others, and HIS favor often returns to those who act generously and with kindness.
Previously mentioned Scripture.
Luke 6:38
New International Version
38 “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
King James Version
38 “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
Living Bible
38 “For if you give, you will get! Your gift will return to you in full and overflowing measure, pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, and running over. Whatever measure you use to give—large or small—will be used to measure what is given back to you.” ”
Proverbs 3:4
New International Version
4 “Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.”
Proverbs 3:4
King James Version
4 “So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.”
Proverbs 3:4-5
Living Bible
4-5 “If you want favor with both God and man, and a reputation for good judgment and common sense, then trust the Lord completely; don’t ever trust yourself.”