Chapter 167 of 1163

Deuteronomy 24

Knowing the sinfulness of the human heart, God gave these laws to promote happiness (v. 5) and to prevent oppression (v. 14) and the perversion of the law (v. 17).

Husbands and wives (1–5). God allowed divorced people to remarry; but this was a concession, not a commandment (Matt. 19:1–12). The divorced wife, protected by this law, could establish a new home, and she did not become a castaway. God wants happiness and holiness in our homes. We will enjoy those blessings if we obey Him and love one another.

Masters and servants (6–18). God sees how we treat those who depend on us for their living. We must never humiliate others because they have less money or authority than we do. When we start to get proud and insensitive, we should remember what we were before the Lord saved us (vv. 18, 22; Titus 3:3–8).

Rich and poor (19–22). God had special concern for the poor, and He depended on the generosity of His people to meet their needs. He promised to bless all who showed compassion to aliens, widows, and orphans. We should ask ourselves where we would be if others helped us to the same degree that we help others.

Helping Others

When others have needs, don’t close your eyes (Prov. 28:27), your ears (Prov. 21:13), your hand, or your heart (Deut. 15:7; 1 John 3:17). Good words are not a substitute for good works (James 2:14–17; 1 John 3:18). When we share with the poor, we give to the Lord, and He sees to it that there are dividends for them and for us (Prov. 19:17).

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