How can Deuteronomy 5:19 influence our attitudes towards material possessions? The Command in Context “ ‘You shall not steal.’ ” (Deuteronomy 5:19) What the Command Reveals about God and Possessions • God assigns real, lawful ownership; material goods are gifts entrusted by Him (Psalm 24:1). • Because He is just, He binds us to respect what He has given to others (Leviticus 19:11). • The command protects the image-bearer’s dignity; violating it attacks both neighbor and God who provides. Shaping Our Inner Attitudes • Contentment—trusting that the Lord’s provision is sufficient (Philippians 4:11-13). • Gratitude—recognizing every good thing as “from above” (James 1:17). • Reverence—seeing possessions as tools for worship and service, not idols (Matthew 6:19-21). • Responsibility—understanding we manage, not own absolutely (1 Chronicles 29:14). Practical Expressions in Daily Life 1. Honest work: “He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must labor, performing with his own hands what is good” (Ephesians 4:28). 2. Generous giving: the flipside of stealing is sharing—“that he may have something to share with one in need” (Ephesians 4:28b). 3. Fair dealings: pay bills promptly, avoid shady bargains, honor contracts (Proverbs 11:1). 4. Respect for public and digital property: no piracy, plagiarism, or misuse of company resources. 5. Prayerful budgeting: seek the Spirit’s guidance before purchases, resisting covetous impulses (1 Timothy 6:6-10). A Higher Standard in Christ Jesus deepens the command by exposing heart-level theft—coveting, exploiting, withholding good (Mark 7:21-22; James 5:4). Walking by His Spirit frees us to pursue uprightness and cheerful generosity, displaying to a watching world that our treasure is ultimately in Him. |
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