Jul 3, 2016
Immediately following the command to not commit adultery, which was ‘theft’ of honor and fidelity from a married spouse, God commands Israel to refrain from taking anyone’s property. As former slaves living at the poverty level in Egypt, the people of Israel often struggled with stealing from the Egyptians and one another. While theft in poverty and desperation is understandable, it was never approved of and always carried punishment (Prov. 6:30, 31). Stealing (Heb. gaw-nab, ‘to deceive/carry away’) is an immoral desire and acquisition of goods by illegal, immoral, or unethical means. Theft is a combination of lust for ‘now’ rather than work for later and dissatisfaction in the providence of God (James 4:1-3). Israel had to learn that God will bless His children and take care of their daily needs which they would never need to make up for by stealing (Luke 11:2-4; 12:27, 28). God will provide for all the needs but not all the greeds!