In what ways can we apply Ezekiel 18:7 to modern financial practices? Text of the Verse “He does not oppress anyone, but returns collateral to the debtor; he does not commit robbery; he gives his bread to the hungry and covers the naked with clothing.” (Ezekiel 18:7) Key Themes in the Verse • Integrity in lending and borrowing • Refusal to exploit others for profit • Active generosity toward the needy • Respect for another person’s property and dignity Modern Financial Applications • Fair Collateral Practices – Require only what is truly needed to secure a loan; avoid excessive or punitive collateral demands. – Release collateral promptly when the debt is repaid, reflecting the verse’s call to “return collateral to the debtor.” • Transparent and Compassionate Lending – Offer clear, honest terms with no hidden fees (Proverbs 11:1). – Provide grace periods or renegotiation options for borrowers in genuine hardship, refusing predatory interest (Exodus 22:25). • Ethical Business Operations – Pay employees promptly and fairly (Leviticus 19:13; James 5:4). – Reject practices that prey on the vulnerable—e.g., payday loans with crushing rates or aggressive debt-collection tactics. • Generous Budgeting – Build giving into personal and corporate budgets—support food banks, clothing drives, and benevolence funds. – View surplus as seed for blessing rather than mere personal gain (2 Corinthians 9:8-11). • Responsible Investing – Vet investments to avoid companies that depend on exploitation, fraud, or oppressive labor. – Prioritize ventures that create jobs, strengthen communities, and uphold biblical ethics (Proverbs 13:11). Practical Action Steps 1. Review every loan agreement—personal or professional—for fairness and clarity. 2. Establish a policy that collateral is returned immediately once obligations are met. 3. Set aside a predetermined percentage of income for benevolence and outreach. 4. Audit investment portfolios to eliminate holdings that profit from oppression or dishonest gain. 5. Encourage church or small-group financial classes that teach biblical stewardship rooted in passages like Ezekiel 18:7, Luke 3:10-14, and Acts 20:35. Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 22:22-23—“Do not rob a poor man because he is poor…” • Isaiah 58:6-7—True fasting includes “sharing your bread with the hungry.” • Luke 6:34-35—Lend “expecting nothing in return” when God so leads. • Colossians 4:1—Masters must “grant your slaves justice and fairness.” By aligning today’s financial habits with these timeless truths, we not only honor God’s Word but also testify to a watching world that righteousness and compassion still belong together. |
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