Introductory Thoughts
According to God, it is a sin to steal (Leviticus 19:11; Deuteronomy 5:19)! To steal is to wrongfully take something that belongs to someone else and place the stolen goods amongst one’s own possessions (see Genesis 31:19; Joshua 7:11). Stealing also can involve the act of obtaining something through falsehood or deceit. This most often relates to materialistic things but can also be the wrongful pursuit of the hearts and affections of others (2 Samuel 15:6; Proverbs 9:17). Stealing is the act of selfish men who are often willing to do much more than steal in order to have things that rightfully belong to others. Perhaps this is the reason why the scripture says that “Thou shalt not steal . . . is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (Romans 13:9).
Devotional Thoughts
-
(For children): There will be nothing unrighteous in heaven. That includes thieves (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). Saved people should never take part in theft (Ephesians 4:28; Titus 2:9-10; 1 Peter 4:15-16; Malachi 3:8).
-
(For everyone): Have you ever stolen something? Have you ever pursued the heart or affection of another that did not belong to you? Have you repented of this wicked and selfish sin?
-
Why is Thou shalt not steal comprehended in the saying, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself? How could obedience to the second command naturally yield obedience to the first?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to bring to your attention anything you have stolen.
- If you have stolen, confess your selfishness to God and repent.
Song
TAKE MY LIFE, AND LET IT BE
