May 28 | The Stone

Ancient boundary stones were put in place to mark the boundaries between people’s property. These stones were critical because every foot mattered in an agrarian culture. A smaller field meant fewer crops could be planted, and over time would result in a significant loss of income. Moving a stone was a way that someone could take advantage of their neighbor by stealing their property over time. The writer is warning people that if they take advantage of others, especially the vulnerable, they would have to contend with God.

Today, a phone call to the right company and most land disputes can be cleared up. However, there are plenty of other ways we can take advantage of people and situations. We can rob people’s dignity by destroying their reputation through the things we say. We can bend the truth a bit on an expense report or not put in a full day of work during quarantine because no one will notice.

Watch this video clip as Pastor Jeff Manion helped us understand that money and that person’s reputation isn’t ours to take. The ramifications of taking them are often more serious than we realize.

Today’s verses warn us that God protects the vulnerable. As his people, we get to display the character of our God in many small ways. Be the one whose integrity stands out instead of the one who takes advantage. Be the first to praise and build others up, the first to admit wrongdoing and the first to show compassion.