“Do not take advantage of each other, but fear your God. I am the Lord your God.” Lev 25:17
In Christ, integrity, honesty, and compassion are core values that guide our interactions with others. These principles are not mere words on a page; they embody the very essence of our journey with the Lord. Fairness and honesty stand as cornerstones of our Christian path. Proverbs 11:1 says that God detest dishonest scales:
“The LORD detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favour with Him.”
The bible encourages us to exhibit a profound reverence for our Almighty God in all our actions. Throughout the Scriptures, our Heavenly Father consistently emphasizes the importance of just and equitable treatment.
In a world that often encourages the relentless pursuit of personal gain regardless of who we hurt, the bible says,
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.”
God’s expectations extend further to us as His children. Romans 15:1 reminds us of our responsibility as believers:
“We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not seek to please ourselves.”
This verse urges us to offer support and uplift those among us who may be struggling, instead of pursuing self-interest. It prompts us to prioritize compassion and selflessness in all our interactions. This admonition implores us to consider the needs and interests of others as more significant than our own. It serves as a compelling reminder to treat others with kindness, fairness, and honesty, mirroring the treatment we desire for ourselves.
Opportunities to take advantage of others’ weaknesses will always exist. Our ability to reject such opportunities through our attitudes and actions reflects the spiritual fruit of temperance. This, in turn, becomes a testimony of God’s work in our lives, visible even to unbelievers.
Consider the story of David from 1 Samuel 26:6-12. David had the opportunity to take the life of King Saul, who had pursued him relentlessly. However, David demonstrated remarkable temperance by refraining from this act. He refused to seize kingship prematurely through violence, showcasing his self-control and commitment to God’s plan.
Lord, may these values radiate in our interactions with others, revealing our faith not just in what we believe but in how we live it out.
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk