How does avoiding usury reflect our commitment to biblical principles in business? Grounding Principle: Psalm 15:5 “He does not lend his money at interest or take a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things will never be shaken.” Understanding Usury in Scripture • “Interest” in Psalm 15:5 refers to profit gained by taking advantage of another’s need—especially the poor (see Exodus 22:25; Leviticus 25:35-37). • The biblical prohibition is not against every form of reasonable return but against oppressive or exploitative lending. • At its heart, usury weaponizes wealth, turning a neighbor’s hardship into personal gain—something God repeatedly condemns (Deuteronomy 23:19-20; Proverbs 28:8; Ezekiel 18:8, 13). Why Avoiding Usury Reflects Our Commitment to Biblical Principles • Demonstrates love of neighbor—“You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18; echoed by Jesus in Mark 12:31). • Displays trust in God as Provider rather than squeezing profit from the vulnerable (Psalm 37:25-26). • Mirrors God’s generosity—“Lend, expecting nothing in return” (Luke 6:34-35). • Guards the heart from the snare of greed—“The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). • Upholds integrity that invites God’s presence—“He who does these things will never be shaken” (Psalm 15:5b). Related Passages Shaping a Kingdom-Minded Business Ethic • Proverbs 19:17 — “Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD.” • Psalm 112:5 — “Good will come to the man who lends generously and conducts his affairs with justice.” • Nehemiah 5:7-11 — Nehemiah rebukes nobles for charging interest, illustrating godly leadership that frees others instead of exploiting them. • Matthew 7:12 — “The measure you use will be measured to you.” Fair dealings honor this principle. Practical Applications for Today’s Marketplace • Offer assistance or financing to struggling customers or partners without predatory terms. • Build pricing and lending policies that value people over percentages. • Refuse ventures built on payday-style interest or excessive credit-card fees. • Structure employee loans or salary advances interest-free. • Invest in micro-enterprise programs that empower rather than entrap. • Let transparency and simplicity replace hidden fees and punitive penalties. • Use profits to bless—support ministries, relieve debt, fund community projects. Blessings Promised to the Upright Businessperson • Stability—“never be shaken” (Psalm 15:5). • Favor—“A generous person will prosper” (Proverbs 11:25). • Witness—ethical practices spotlight the gospel in action (Matthew 5:16). • Eternal reward—riches in heaven outweigh temporary gains (Matthew 6:19-21). Avoiding usury isn’t merely refraining from excessive interest; it signals a heart aligned with God’s justice, mercy, and generosity—principles that transform every business into an arena of worship and witness. |
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