Confronting Selfish Gain | Nehemiah 5:9-12

So I said, “The thing that you are doing is not good. Ought you not to walk in the fear of our God to prevent the taunts of the nations our enemies? Moreover, I and my brothers and my servants are lending them money and grain. Let us abandon this exacting of interest. Return to them this very day their fields, their vineyards, their olive orchards, and their houses, and the percentage of money, grain, wine, and oil that you have been exacting from them.” Then they said, “We will restore these and require nothing from them. We will do as you say.” And I called the priests and made them swear to do as they had promised. — Nehemiah 5:9-12 CALL OUT: Doug Jolly from South Carolina. He is a men's leader passionate about building a new generation of men. Thanks for putting yourself out there and for developing interest in your church and with your men. This passage offers an intriguing turn as Nehemiah prepares to address a problem he's indirectly involved in. Remember the background here. Nehemiah was appointed governor of Jerusalem by King Artaxerxes and held a significant role in the Persian Empire as the King's cupbearer. With his high position came considerable wealth and access to resources. He was likely among the wealthiest and most influential Jewish leaders of his era, entrusted with substantial Persian funds for a building project. Yet, this scripture reveals that some wealthy Jews were involved in dubious lending practices. Jewish law permitted money lending but forbade interest on loans to fellow Jews (Exodus 22:25, Leviticus 25:35-37, Deuteronomy 23:19-20). The situation worsened as these practices became exploitative and unfair, leading debtors to sell their children to settle debts with their own people. Although there's no proof that Nehemiah engaged in these unfair practices, he was lending money. Ultimately, Nehemiah decides to act. He calls for an end to lending and for the properties to be returned to their owners. This wasn't about promoting socialism or making reparations. It was a call to align with God's standards and encourage generosity. Nehemiah challenged them to exceed the norms of their era and treat fellow believers differently. Nehemiah's decision is a vital reminder for us. It underscores our collective duty to uphold a higher standard of integrity, respect, and care for each other as believers (Galatians 6:10, 1 John 3:16-18, 1 Corinthians 12:25-27, and Matthew 18:15-17). We shouldn't exploit, manipulate, or overburden God's people. Instead, we ought to be more generous with our time, skills, and resources, united in our mission and glorifying God in a world unfamiliar with Him. So, let's join in. Confront the selfish gain in you. Be more generous to your fellow believers today. Contribute a little more of your time, talent, and treasure. Witness how God magnifies His name through your generosity. You might even reap some mutual benefits. But remember, do it for God, not for personal gain. ASK THIS: Reflect on your current practices in giving and lending within your community. In what ways can you align more closely with Nehemiah's example of integrity and generosity, especially towards fellow believers? Consider specific actions or changes you can make in your approach to sharing your resources, time, and talents. Nehemiah's decision to challenge the status quo and uphold God's standards was a bold move. Discuss a time when you faced a similar situation, where you had to stand up for what was right, even if it meant going against the norm. How did you handle it, and what impact did it have on your relationship with God and your community? DO THIS: Be more generous with your time, talent, and treasure with fellow believers. PRAY THIS: Father, guide me to be generous and just in my dealings, reflecting Your love and integrity in every action, especially towards my brothers and sisters in Christ. Help me to courageously stand for what is right, as Nehemiah did, and to glorify Your name in all that I do. Amen. PLAY THIS: Famous For (I Believe). Check out other all Vince Miller's videos and audios for small groups at: https://beresolute.org/ Get Vince's most widely read resources The Daily Devotional at: https://beresolute.org/mdd Check out more ALL IN products like the one Vince is wearing at: https://beresolute.org/product-category/all-in-hats/ ____________________________________________________________________________________ Connect with Vince socially: FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/millervince INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vinceleemiller LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincemiller TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vinceleemiller