Compare Leviticus 25:36 with Proverbs 22:7 on lending and borrowing principles. Setting the Scene • Scripture addresses money matters plainly and practically. • Two passages—Leviticus 25:36 and Proverbs 22:7—give complementary insight into God-honoring lending and borrowing. Leviticus 25:36—Protecting the Vulnerable “Do not take any interest or profit from him, but fear your God, so that your countryman may live among you.” • Commanded during the Year of Jubilee context, where land and liberty were restored. • Prohibits charging fellow Israelites interest, ensuring the poor are not further oppressed. • Rooted in reverence—“fear your God”—showing that how we handle money is a direct reflection of our worship. • Goal: “so that your countryman may live among you.” Economic mercy preserves community and dignity. Proverbs 22:7—Reality Check on Debt “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.” • States an observable truth rather than issuing a direct command. • Highlights the power imbalance created by debt—debt places a person under another’s control. • Implied caution: avoid unnecessary borrowing to maintain freedom. Shared Principles • Compassion over exploitation—Leviticus bans interest; Proverbs warns of bondage. • Stewardship—both texts assume money is a tool to honor God, not master people (cf. Matthew 6:24). • Community health—oppression through interest or debt fractures the covenant community (cf. Nehemiah 5:1-13). • Personal responsibility—Scripture never excuses reckless borrowing; instead it calls for wisdom (cf. Romans 13:8). Practical Takeaways for Today 1. Lend to help, not to profit from another’s hardship. – Apply zero-interest generosity to those genuinely in need (cf. Luke 6:34-35). 2. Count the cost before borrowing. – Ask: Will this debt place me under someone else’s rule? (cf. Luke 14:28). 3. Seek freedom, not bondage. – Aggressively pay down existing debt to regain margin for generosity (cf. Proverbs 6:1-5). 4. Cultivate a heart of reverence. – Every financial decision is worship; fear God first, and money finds its proper place. |
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