Jesus told his followers:

6 “Don’t give that which is holy to the dogs, neither throw your pearls before the pigs, lest perhaps they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.

12 Therefore whatever you desire for men to do to you, you shall also do to them; for this is the law and the prophets.

13 “Enter in by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many are those who enter in by it. 14 How narrow is the gate, and restricted is the way that leads to life! Few are those who find it."

Matthew 7:6, 12-14 - World English Bible

In the midst of his teaching, Jesus presented three sayings: an admonition, a statement on Christian ethics and a statement on salvation. First, he warned his followers; do not present what is most precious to the unclean. Dogs were scavengers in the the time of Jesus and pigs (actually wild boars) were unclean. People used both titles as insults towards sinners and Gentiles. What can we make of this saying? Be selective about Christian witness, for it requires wisdom.

Next, Jesus restated his teaching on second part of the Great Commandment, paraphrasing Leviticus 19:18: "Love your neighbor as yourself." He insisted this summed up Scripture ("the Law and the prophets").

Last, Jesus spoke of a sheep gate, narrow in construction, so sheep could be controlled as they entered or left the pen. Going through the gate took time, hence required patience. A large or loose gate would allow many sheep to escape the pen, creating chaos, leaving the shepherd without control over his flock. Notice how he applied the image to salvation. Yes, it is a gift from God, but responding to salvation took time and patience and wisdom. One cannot rush into heaven. Like a sheep entering the sheep gate, one answered God's call one step at a time.

How do you develop wisdom in your spiritual life? How do you apply that gift in your relationships with others?