Definition: If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 7:11. It’s a really important and slightly challenging passage about how we should treat God and each other. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying that we should be generous and loving towards those who ask for something from God. It’s emphasizing the importance of treating others with kindness and consideration, especially when they need help or support. Let's unpack it word-by-word: "If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children..." – This is the tricky part. “Evil” doesn’t mean malicious; it means selfish , unloving , or disrespectful . It suggests a lack of compassion and prioritizing one's own desires over others. “Know how to give good gifts” refers to giving thoughtful, positive things – like love, kindness, and support. "...how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?" – This is the key part. It’s comparing God (Father) to a loving parent who wants what's best for his children. The "good things" are blessings, rewards, and opportunities – things like forgiveness, peace, and happiness. So, putting it all together: This verse is telling us that we should always strive to be kind, generous, and helpful towards others. It’s a reminder that God wants us to treat people with respect and compassion, just as He treats us. It’s encouraging us to put His best interests ahead of our own selfish desires. Why is this important? Jesus often uses this idea to encourage his followers to love their neighbors – meaning to be kind and helpful to everyone around them. It's a call for a higher standard of behavior, rooted in the belief that God loves us unconditionally. In short: It’s about recognizing that God values kindness and generosity, and we should reflect that in our interactions with others. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts further? Give an example of how this verse applies to a specific situation?