“STEAL NO MORE”

“Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.”

Ephesians 4:28

Everywhere you go, stealing is universally regarded as a violation of the law. Taking things belonging to others has corresponding consequences depending on the degree, whether it’s larceny, identity theft, grand theft, heist, robbery, fraud—you name it.

For example, petty theft is considered a felony in Turkey, and, depending on the circumstances, a thief could end up in jail for up to 20 years, in addition to community service or hefty fines. In France, petty theft can carry a fine of up to 45,000 Euros and up to 3 years' imprisonment. (Source: Punishment for Petty Theft Around the World by Daniel Jones)

The truth is that even without laws governing theft, every person, deep in his heart, knows that stealing is wrong; it is a violation of certain laws that deserves punishment.

As we continue our study of this passage in Ephesians 4, we learn that Paul is telling the believers in the large city of Ephesus that part of declining to give the Devil a foothold is avoiding stealing. Being a populous city (about 200,000), Ephesus was likely to have had problems with theft, mainly from slaves and those who could not support themselves.

Paul may be commanding the Ephesians to stop stealing and earn honest money. Perhaps among these believers were previously thieves. The Apostle tells them that instead of committing a felony, they should find a job and work hard. The purpose is to provide for their families and help those in need. This sets the bar for Christian productivity.

What is Paul teaching us today? I'd like to share a few insights on this matter.

First, we should not be a burden to anyone (mainly those of age and able to work) and earn a living. In so doing, we are reminded to be honest in our dealings—whether we’re managing a business or making money through employment—we must treat our source of income honestly (Luke 16:10). This reminds me of Paul’s admonition to tell the truth to one another because we belong to one body.

Second, being productive provides for our personal needs and allows us to do something useful with our hands. God has uniquely blessed us with gifts and talents to be a blessing to others and bring glory to His name (1 Peter 4:10).

Last, we can’t afford to be lazy (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Being unproductive is so un-Christian and is detestable to God. That's why we can't be a burden to others. God blesses us with strength and opportunities to be helpful, and we should use them wisely. He saved us not only to escape His judgment but also to do good works.

If God has blessed you with a livelihood, let me encourage you to do your work with all honesty. Do your job not only to keep yourself busy and stay on your boss’s payroll but also to honor God and be a blessing to others.

Pursue the Savior today!

Photo by Paulette Wooten on Unsplash