In Exodus chapter 22, verse 7 continues setting the standard for protection of property. “If a man gives his neighbor silver or other goods for safekeeping and they are stolen from the neighbor’s house, the thief, if he is caught must pay back double… if the thief is not found, the owner of the house must appear before the judges to determine if he has laid hands on the other man’s property.” Later the law elaborated on livestock as well, “If a man gives…any animal to his neighbor for safekeeping and it dies or is injured or taken away… it will be settled by taking an oath before the Lord…the owner is to accept this and no restitution is required.” The law continues, “If the animal was stolen from the neighbor, he must make restitution… but if it is torn to pieces by a wild animal, he shall bring the remains as evidence and he will not be required to pay for the animal“.
Spiritually, we are God’s possessions, and He holds us to a higher standard when we have stewardship for the training of another. Whether a teacher by title, or simply ministering the truth of God’s Word, when we have spiritual stewardship, we are accountable. James even warns, “Let not many of you become teachers… knowing that such shall incur a stricter judgment” (James 3:1). Scripture is full of warnings not to cause any of God’s “little ones” to stumble. If you are a parent, a Pastor or a pew-sitter, you have a responsibility to protect God’s beloved. Don’t miss the picture of danger that is waiting to devour new believers. Satan loves to prey on the vulnerable, point those stragglers back to the protection in the unity of the body of believers.
Exodus 22:14 explains the responsibility we have when we borrow from a neighbor, “If a man borrows an animal from his neighbor and it is injured… he must make restitution. If the owner is with the animal (he was hired)…the money paid for the hire pays for the animal“. This applied to you and me today with respect to using other’s property or tools. If you borrow something, return it in better condition than you received it. Do not let a few gallons of gas, or a broken handle to hinder the work of God. Our neighbors (and our family) are watching to see if our ACTIONS show God’s love before they will hear our WORDS about God’s love. 1 Corinthians 6:12, explains that though we are living under God’s grace, we have a higher obligation to others. “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable.” Let’s do the things that are profitable according to God’s economy!