How can we apply Proverbs 28:8 to modern financial practices? The Verse at a Glance “He who increases his wealth by interest and usury lays it up for one who is kind to the poor.” (Proverbs 28:8) What the Verse Is Really Saying • “Interest and usury” point to any profit gained by exploiting someone’s need. • God declares that money made this way will ultimately slip from the exploiter’s hand and end up benefiting the very people he refused to help. • The verse carries an implied call: handle money justly and compassionately, or God Himself will correct the imbalance (cf. Proverbs 13:22; James 5:1-6). Timeless Principles • Wealth is never morally neutral; the way it is acquired matters (Proverbs 10:22). • Exploitation invites divine reversal—God defends the vulnerable (Psalm 68:5). • Generosity toward the poor is the safest “investment” (Proverbs 19:17; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8). Modern Financial Pitfalls That Echo “Interest and Usury” • Predatory payday loans charging triple-digit APRs. • Credit-card marketing that targets financially insecure families with “teaser” rates. • Adjustable-rate mortgages designed to balloon beyond the borrower’s ability. • Hidden fees in banking, insurance, or retirement products that erode small savers’ balances. • Business models built on late-fee revenue rather than fair service. Practical Ways to Apply Proverbs 28:8 Today 1. Examine every income stream. – Ask, “Is someone being taken advantage of so I can profit?” (Proverbs 22:16). – If so, restructure or walk away. 2. Lend, don’t leverage. – When personal lending is appropriate, offer fair—or interest-free—terms, especially to fellow believers (Deuteronomy 23:19-20; Luke 6:34-35). 3. Choose ethical financial products. – Seek credit unions or banks with transparent fee structures and community investment commitments. 4. Treat employees and contractors generously. – Pay promptly and fairly (Leviticus 19:13; James 5:4). 5. Redirect profit toward mercy. – Build charity, benevolence, and mission giving into the budget’s “top line,” not the leftovers (Matthew 6:21). 6. Advocate for the vulnerable. – Support legislation and ministries that curb predatory lending and teach sound money management (Proverbs 31:8-9). Positive Stewardship Habits to Cultivate • Live below your means; avoid the bondage of debt (Proverbs 22:7). • Save steadily, invest wisely, and diversify without greed (Ecclesiastes 11:2). • Give cheerfully and systematically (1 Corinthians 16:2). • Measure success by faithfulness, not net worth (1 Timothy 6:6-10). Encouragement to Walk It Out Handling money God’s way protects us from the trap of unjust gain and positions us as conduits of His provision. When we reject practices that exploit and choose generosity instead, we not only honor the Lord but also align ourselves with His promise: “It is well with the man who is gracious and lends freely” (Psalm 112:5). |
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