DON’T DEFRAUD HIS PEOPLE! By Major Frank Materu
"Do not defraud or rob your neighbor. Do not hold back the wages of a hired worker overnight."
-Leviticus 19:13
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Introduction
The message, Don’t Defraud His People, emphasizes God’s call for honesty, integrity, and care among His people. Defrauding one another is not just an offense against the individual but a grave sin against God Himself. It provokes His wrath and invites destruction upon those who choose to exploit and harm others.
God desires that His people live in mutual respect and love, refraining from any form of deceit or greed that alienates them from Him. This teaching is a call to evaluate our conduct, avoid entanglement with worldly temptations, and remain steadfast in God’s righteous ways.
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Key Themes
The Danger of Defrauding God’s People
"Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God."
-Proverbs 14:31
God takes it personally when His people are defrauded. Those who lie, cheat, and steal from others not only harm individuals but also dishonor God. Such behavior attracts God’s wrath and indignation, leading to inevitable consequences of judgment and destruction.
The Deceitfulness of Riches
"For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."
-1 Timothy 6:10
The pursuit of wealth often leads people into dishonesty, greed, and exploitation. God warns against chasing after material gain at the expense of righteousness. Wealth gained through deceit only leads to misery, bondage, and separation from God’s blessings.
The Call to Trust God Over Worldly Systems
"Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
-Matthew 6:33
God’s people are called to trust in Him rather than in the fleeting systems of the world. By pursuing worldly wealth and values, many fall into traps of indebtedness and destruction. True fulfillment comes from living under God’s guidance and provision.
The Importance of Integrity and Honesty
"The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him."
-Proverbs 20:7
God expects His people to walk in integrity, treating one another with respect and fairness. Defrauding others damages relationships, destroys trust, and invites God’s discipline. It is better to live modestly with integrity than to gain wealth through dishonest means.
Avoiding the Influence of False Idols and Heathen Practices
"They worshiped their idols, which became a snare to them."
-Psalm 106:36
When God’s people adopt the practices of the heathen—pursuing idols and worldly values—they estrange themselves from Him. This leads to spiritual blindness, moral decay, and eventual destruction. God calls His people to remain separate and holy, resisting the lure of false gods.
The Consequences of Estranging Oneself From God
"The way of the transgressor is hard."
-Proverbs 13:15b
Those who defraud others and pursue dishonest gain are estranging themselves from God. This leads to mental captivity, physical misery, and spiritual death. No one can escape the consequences of disobedience to God’s commands.
Living in the Light of God’s Spirit
"For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God."
-Romans 8:14
God desires His people to follow the leading of His Spirit, living in honesty, integrity, and mutual care. Those who are guided by the Spirit will enjoy God’s blessings, peace, and protection, avoiding the snares of worldly entanglements.
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Summary
God detests defrauding and exploitation among His people. The deceitfulness of riches and the temptation to pursue worldly values lead to misery, captivity, and separation from God. In contrast, living in integrity and following the Spirit’s guidance brings peace, blessings, and eternal life.
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Conclusion
As believers, we are called to treat one another with fairness and respect, reflecting God’s love and righteousness in our relationships. Pursuing dishonest gain is a path to ruin, but living with integrity honors God and brings lasting joy.
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Call to Action
Examine your actions and motives today. Are you living in honesty and integrity? Commit to avoiding any form of deceit, exploitation, or greed. Trust in God’s provision and seek to live a life that honors Him in all you do.
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Final Word of Encouragement
God sees the hearts and actions of His people. Those who walk in integrity will enjoy His blessings and protection. Do not be swayed by the deceitfulness of riches or the values of the world. Instead, follow the Spirit’s leading, live in righteousness, and trust in God’s faithful provision. Remember, no one escapes God’s justice, but His mercy is abundant for those who repent and walk in His ways.