How can we avoid the sins listed in Ezekiel 22:29 in our lives? Ezekiel 22:29 – The Warning in God’s Own Words “The people of the land have practiced extortion and committed robbery; they have oppressed the poor and needy and have exploited the foreign resident without justice.” Identify the Specific Sins • Extortion • Robbery • Oppression of the poor and needy • Exploitation of the foreigner (sojourner, immigrant) Root Causes Scripture Highlights • Greed – “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evils.” (1 Timothy 6:10) • Hard hearts – “Because of the hardness of their hearts they became callous.” (Ephesians 4:19) • Forgetting God’s covenant character – “He executed justice for the oppressed, giving food to the hungry.” (Psalm 146:7) Practical Steps to Reject Extortion and Robbery • Cultivate contentment (Hebrews 13:5). • Work honestly and give generously (Ephesians 4:28). • Keep transparent financial practices—no hidden fees, inflated invoices, or predatory lending (Exodus 22:25). Practical Steps to Defend the Poor and Needy • Budget intentional generosity—set aside a portion for benevolence (Proverbs 19:17). • Support ministries that provide food, shelter, training, and advocacy (Isaiah 58:6-10). • Speak up when systems exploit or overlook the vulnerable (Proverbs 31:8-9). Practical Steps to Treat the Foreigner with Justice • Remember Israel’s story: “You were foreigners in the land of Egypt.” (Exodus 22:21). • Offer fair wages, safe housing, and legal assistance when possible (Leviticus 19:33-34). • Model hospitality—invite newcomers into fellowship and community (Romans 12:13). Guarding the Heart – Ongoing Accountability • Daily Scripture intake: let God’s Word correct and train (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Fellowship with believers who value integrity (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Regular self-examination under the Spirit’s searchlight (Psalm 139:23-24). Living as Salt and Light Today • A lifestyle free from exploitation demonstrates the Gospel’s power (Matthew 5:16). • Justice and mercy lived out confirm our faith is genuine (James 2:15-17). • Obedience in these areas points a watching world to “the Father of the fatherless and defender of widows” (Psalm 68:5). |
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