How does Leviticus 25:14 guide fair business practices among believers today? Cornerstone Command from Leviticus 25:14 “If you make a sale to your neighbor or a purchase from him, you must not take advantage of one another.” (Leviticus 25:14) Timeless Principles Embedded - Fairness is non-negotiable. - Both parties retain dignity and value. - Profit is allowed, exploitation is forbidden. - Transactions are relational, not merely mechanical. Practical Guidelines for Modern Transactions - Price goods and services honestly, resisting hidden mark-ups or bait-and-switch tactics. - Disclose defects or limitations fully when selling. - Honor written and verbal contracts exactly as stated. - Pay employees, freelancers, and vendors promptly and in full. - Use accurate measurements—weights, hours, materials, data. - Seek win-win outcomes that bless both buyer and seller. Supporting Scriptures that Echo the Call - “Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight.” (Proverbs 11:1) - “Better a little with righteousness than great gain with injustice.” (Proverbs 16:8) - “Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven.” (Colossians 4:1) - “We are taking great care to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men.” (2 Corinthians 8:21) - “Look, the wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you.” (James 5:4) Guarding the Heart Behind Every Deal - Greed distorts judgment; contentment clarifies it. - Love for neighbor sets the ceiling on profit-taking. - Stewardship replaces ownership; the Lord owns it all. Everyday Scenarios - Setting a fair asking price when listing a used car. - Quoting a realistic time frame and cost for a home repair. - Accurately reporting billable hours to a client. - Refusing to inflate shipping costs on an online sale. - Compensating an employee for overtime without being asked. Personal Audit Steps for Faithful Practice - Review current pricing structures for hidden or unnecessary fees. - Compare contracts and invoices with delivered goods or services to ensure alignment. - Examine payroll records to verify on-time, complete payment. - Assess advertising and marketing materials for truthful representation. - Allocate a portion of profits for generosity, reinforcing the heart of stewardship. Community Impact Consistent obedience to Leviticus 25:14 cultivates trust, strengthens business reputations, and visibly demonstrates the righteousness of God’s kingdom in the marketplace. |
    |