Definition: And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Luke 14:14. It’s a really important and thought-provoking idea about how we’re valued in God’s eyes. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse basically says that we are blessed, but we can't earn our blessings. It’s like this: God wants to give us good things – happiness, peace, and a fulfilling life – but he doesn’t just hand them out. He expects us to give back in return, and that return is valuable and rewarding for him. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And thou shalt be blessed…” : This means we will experience joy, happiness, and good things in life. “…for they cannot recompense thee:” This is the crucial part. "Recompense" means to pay back for something. These “they” are people – friends, family, or even strangers who do good things for us. They’re not giving us money or gifts. “For thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.” This is where it gets deeper. "The just" refers to people who have been judged by God and are considered righteous – those who have lived a life that pleases him. The “resurrection of the just” means God will ultimately judge these people, and their reward or punishment will be determined after they’re given a chance at eternal life (or not). So, what does it mean practically? It encourages us to: Give back: Think about how you can show kindness, help others, and do good in the world. Be generous: Don't expect anything in return for your generosity or helping others. Your actions are valuable to God . Live a life that pleases him: Strive to live in a way that honors God and reflects his love. In essence, it’s a reminder that our lives have meaning because we are valued by God and that our goodness and service will be recognized in the end. Does this make sense? Do you want me to explain any part of it further or perhaps connect it to a specific story or example?