In what ways can we cultivate "hatred of unjust gain" in our lives? The Scriptural Standard Exodus 18:21: “But you are to select from all the people capable men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain.” The Lord calls every believer—not just leaders—to cultivate that same hatred for crooked profit. Why God Demands This Stance • Unjust gain destroys families (Proverbs 15:27). • It shortens leadership tenure and invites judgment (Proverbs 28:16). • It cannot hide from God’s wrath (Habakkuk 2:9). • Love of money tangles souls in “many sorrows” (1 Timothy 6:9–10). Start with a Heart Check • Confess any secret fascination with “easy money.” • Compare spending patterns with kingdom priorities (Matthew 6:19-21). • Ask: “Would I take this deal if Jesus were visibly watching?” Saturate Your Mind with Truth • Read testimonies of judgment on greed (Joshua 7; Acts 5:1-11). • Memorize verses that expose covetousness (Hebrews 13:5; Luke 12:15). • Meditate on Christ’s example: “though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor” (2 Corinthians 8:9). Concrete Habits that Starve Greed • Budget in generosity first—tithes and offerings set aside before any discretionary spending (Proverbs 3:9). • Practice transparent accounting in business; invite someone you trust to review the books. • Choose honesty over profit in every transaction, even when no one else would notice (Leviticus 19:35-36). • Celebrate others’ successes; envy loses its grip when gratitude grows. • Say no to get-rich-quick schemes; patient diligence brings lasting fruit (Proverbs 13:11). Guardrails for Daily Decision-Making Ask before committing money or time: – Will this opportunity tempt me to shade the truth? – Does it exploit the vulnerable (James 5:4)? – Can I pursue it with a clear conscience and open hands? If any answer is “yes” to compromise, walk away—immediately. Restore What Was Wrongly Taken Ephesians 4:28: “He who has been stealing must steal no longer; instead, he must labor, doing good with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with the one in need.” • Make restitution where possible. • Replace dishonest practices with diligent, skillful work. • Turn former greed into generosity, blessing those you once might have exploited. Live for the Greater Treasure • Hold possessions loosely; Christ is the surpassing value (Philippians 3:8). • Remember the coming audit: “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:10). • Look ahead to the reward promised to faithful stewards (Luke 16:10-12). Result: Freedom and Witness A believer who truly hates unjust gain stands out in a world driven by profit at any price. Such integrity safeguards the church’s testimony, blesses families, and reflects the righteous character of our King. |
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