How can Leviticus 25:36 be applied in modern financial practices? “Do not take interest or any profit from him, but fear your God, so that your brother may continue to live among you.” Setting the Scene • The chapter governs Israel’s economic life during the sabbatical and jubilee years. • The command protects an Israelite who has become poor; the brother must be helped, not profited from. • The motive is reverence—“fear your God”—linking financial conduct directly to worship. Timeless Principle God forbids exploiting someone in financial distress; instead, He calls His people to protect the vulnerable, maintaining community life. Guiding Heart Attitudes • Compassion before profit • Reverence for God over market advantage • Stewardship rather than ownership—resources belong to God (Psalm 24:1) • Expecting eternal reward more than earthly gain (Matthew 6:19-21) Practical Applications for Personal Finance Today • Interest-free loans to struggling believers or family when feasible—mirroring the “brother” language. • Refusing predatory practices such as payday loans, excessive late fees, or hidden charges. • Budgeting generosity: setting aside a portion of income to meet urgent needs (1 John 3:17). • Open-handed debt forgiveness when hardship persists, remembering the jubilee model. Applications in Business and Institutional Settings • Transparent lending terms; no surprise rate hikes or punitive penalties. • Caps on interest that reflect care for low-income clients. • Corporate social responsibility: creating products that build, not trap, the poor (Proverbs 22:22-23). • Churches establishing benevolence funds or credit unions offering fair micro-loans. Safeguards Against Exploitation • Regular audits of lending practices by believers in leadership. • Educating borrowers on true costs before contracts are signed (Proverbs 27:23). • Linking repayment schedules to realistic income levels, preventing perpetual debt cycles. Scriptures Echoing the Same Standard • Deuteronomy 23:19-20—no interest to a brother; contrasting treatment of foreigners clarifies protection of the covenant community. • Psalm 15:5—righteous person “does not lend his money at interest.” • Proverbs 28:8—usury amasses wealth that ultimately benefits the poor. • Ezekiel 18:8—one who “does not lend at interest” is called righteous. • Luke 6:34-35—lend expecting nothing in return; imitate the Father’s mercy. • James 2:15-17—faith proves itself by meeting a brother’s physical needs. Summary Takeaway All modern financial decisions must flow from a God-fearing commitment to protect and uplift those in need. Charging exploitative interest violates both the letter and spirit of Leviticus 25:36; generous, fair, and transparent practices honor the Lord and ensure “your brother may continue to live among you.” |
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