Bible Reading: Proverbs 28
“He that by usury and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather it for him that will pity the poor.” – Proverbs 28:8 (kjv)
Usury was excessive interest on loans exacting pressure on the borrower. In fact, the Israelites were not to charge each other interest at all. Usury in our day would be to charge excessive interest that may be up to 30 per cent interest where rates should be maximum 10 per cent. Unfair interest is always usury. It is usually charged to the people who can least afford it. They must pay whatever someone asks, because their credit is no good.
Unjust gain is any worth a man gets unfairly. Sometimes it is legal but not moral. Many times, it is against the law as well. God will not bless those who take advantage of others. In the long run, they will lose everything. In the providence and justice of God, such wealth will be forfeited to someone who treats the poor fairly. God blesses those who help others. Give and it shall be given unto you.
Action Steps
- Settle in your mind that you are a steward of God’s resources
- You have been called to be a blessing and a helper of men.
- Yes, run your business with profit in mind; yet be fair in your dealings
Pastor Oladiran Oladipo