How does Exodus 22:10 guide us in handling entrusted possessions today? The original command “If a man gives a donkey, an ox, a sheep, or any animal to his neighbor to keep safe, and it dies or is injured or is driven away, without anyone seeing it,” (Exodus 22:10) Timeless principles drawn from the text • Entrustment is real and measurable—specific animals, specific neighbor • The caretaker’s responsibility is active protection, not passive holding • God witnesses what “no one” else sees, so integrity is non-negotiable • Loss or damage must be investigated honestly (v. 11 completes the thought) Why this matters in our century • Stewardship is still God’s standard: “Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2) • Little things reveal heart character: “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” (Luke 16:10) • Every resource—physical, financial, digital—ultimately belongs to the Lord (Psalm 24:1) Everyday situations that mirror Exodus 22:10 • Borrowed vehicles, tools, books, devices • Company laptops, credit cards, fuel cards, office supplies • Friend’s houseplants or pets while they travel • Confidential information a coworker shares in trust • Church equipment you bring home for a ministry event Practical steps for faithful caretaking • Treat it as better than your own—clean, store, and handle carefully • Document condition when received; communicate promptly if issues arise • Set clear return dates and honor them • Provide restitution or replacement if negligence causes loss (Exodus 22:14) • Pray for wisdom, work “heartily, as for the Lord.” (Colossians 3:23) Integrity checkpoints • Personal honesty: “The integrity of the upright guides them.” (Proverbs 11:3) • Prompt confession: If loss occurs, speak up—silence compounds guilt • Mutual accountability: Seek a witness or written agreement when valuables change hands • Eternal perspective: “Each of us will give an account of himself to God.” (Romans 14:12) Core takeaway Anything placed in your hands—whether a neighbor’s lawnmower or a company’s passwords—is a sacred trust. Exodus 22:10 reminds us that God cares how we safeguard what is not ours, sees what others cannot see, and calls us to faithful, transparent stewardship in every borrowed or assigned possession. |
    |