Eric Otchere I http://www.livingourbible.com I Sunday 31st August 2025
Introduction
In Deuteronomy 15, Moses continued to review God’s laws, showing Israel that holiness extended beyond worship rituals into the very fabric of daily living. From debt cancellation to caring for the poor, releasing servants, and consecrating the firstborn, God’s commands touched every area of life.
For Israel, there was no division between sacred and secular—their entire society was to reflect the justice, compassion, and holiness of God.
For us today, this chapter still teaches us how to live in a way that demonstrates God’s heart for mercy, generosity, and righteousness.
1. Debt Cancellation Every Seven Years (Deuteronomy 15:1-6)
God instituted a system of debt cancellation every seventh year to prevent generational poverty and oppression. This was a radical law that ensured no one remained enslaved by debt forever.
Scripture: “At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts.” (Deuteronomy 15:1 NIV)
This principle teaches us that God values justice and restoration. Today, while financial systems are different, the heart of this law still applies: we must avoid exploiting the vulnerable and find ways to show mercy, forgiveness, and fairness in financial dealings.
2. Generosity Toward the Poor (Deuteronomy 15:7-11)
Moses reminded Israel that poverty would exist, but God’s people were to be open-handed and compassionate, not hard-hearted. Generosity was not optional—it was commanded.
Scripture: “There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy.” (Deuteronomy 15:11 NIV)
For us today, this means caring for the poor is a direct reflection of our faith. True love for God overflows into compassion for others. Generosity reveals the heart of God through His people.
3. Treatment of Bondservants (Deuteronomy 15:12-18)
Israelites who served as bondservants were to be released in the seventh year and provided for generously. They were not to leave empty-handed but supplied with abundance, reflecting God’s mercy and provision.
Scripture: “Do not send them away empty-handed. Supply them liberally from your flock, your threshing floor and your winepress.” (Deuteronomy 15:13-14 NIV)
This teaches us that freedom and dignity are central to God’s heart. In our world today, it reminds us to treat workers, employees, and those who serve us with fairness, generosity, and respect.
4. Consecration of Firstborn Animals to the Lord (Deuteronomy 15:19-23)
The Israelites were also commanded to dedicate the firstborn of their flocks and herds to God. This was an act of worship and gratitude, acknowledging that everything belongs to Him.
Scripture: “Set apart for the Lord your God every firstborn male of your herds and flocks.” (Deuteronomy 15:19 NIV)
For believers today, this principle reminds us to honor God with the “first” of what we have—our income, our time, our talents—acknowledging Him as our provider.
Conclusion
Deuteronomy 15 demonstrates that God’s laws were designed to ensure justice, mercy, and holiness in every area of life. From debt relief to generosity, from servant care to consecration, everything pointed to God’s character. As His people, our actions must reflect His compassion and righteousness.
Take Action: Know God’s commands and live by them. Be generous, fair, and faithful, showing the world what it means to belong to a holy and compassionate God.
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