How can we apply Psalm 15:5 to our daily financial decisions? The Verse in Focus “Who does not lend his money at interest or accept a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things will never be shaken.” Psalm 15:5 Why God Mentions Money Here • Our financial habits reveal our heart (Matthew 6:21). • Money, if mishandled, quickly leads to injustice (1 Timothy 6:9–10). • God ties financial integrity to stability: “will never be shaken.” What “Not Lend … at Interest” Meant Then—and Means Now • In Israel, interest on personal loans exploited the poor (Exodus 22:25). • The principle: refuse profit that harms or pressures the vulnerable. • Modern parallels – Payday loans, predatory credit cards, hidden fees – Family “loans” that manipulate or control – Business dealings that capitalize on someone’s desperation Refusing Bribes—Broadening the Principle • Any payoff that skews justice is forbidden (Deuteronomy 16:19). • Today: kickbacks, under-the-table gifts, “perks” for ignoring wrongdoing, political favoritism. • Bribes distort true value and betray trust (Proverbs 17:23). Daily Decisions Where Psalm 15:5 Guides Us • Budgeting – Set aside a “generosity line” before discretionary spending (2 Corinthians 9:7). – Reject income streams that depend on another’s hardship. • Borrowing & Lending – Offer interest-free help to struggling believers or family when possible (Luke 6:34-35). – Put terms in writing so clarity, not profit, governs the relationship (Proverbs 16:11). • Investing – Screen opportunities: Does this company prey on the poor, deceive customers, or bribe officials? – Seek ventures creating genuine value and fair wages (Proverbs 13:11). • Workplace Conduct – Decline gifts that could sway your judgment. – Report unethical incentives—even when it costs you. • Taxes & Fees – Pay what is due (Romans 13:6-7). – Avoid schemes that cross legal or moral lines for short-term gain. Guardrails for a Steadfast Financial Life 1. Pray over every major money move (Proverbs 3:5-6). 2. Invite accountability—share plans with a mature believer. 3. Remember stewardship: God owns it all (Psalm 24:1). 4. Celebrate contentment; it blocks greed’s lure (Hebrews 13:5). 5. Keep eternity in view; earthly profit fades (Matthew 6:19-20). The Promise to Hold On To Living by Psalm 15:5 may cost immediate earnings, yet God guarantees, “He who does these things will never be shaken.” Financial integrity plants your feet on unmovable ground—now and for eternity. |
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