Nehemiah 5:10 “I and my brothers and my men are also lending the people money and grain. But let us stop charging interest!”
There is a saying, “Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should.” The corresponding scripture is 1 Cor 10:23 “Everything is permissible,” but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible,” but not everything is edifying. We certainly see that philosophy at work in this chapter. The nobles and officials weren’t technically doing anything outside the scope of their power with their taxes and interest rates, but morally, they were certainly crossing a line.
Nehemiah 5:11 “Give back to them immediately their fields, vineyards, olive groves and houses, and also the interest you are charging them—one percent of the money, grain, new wine and olive oil.”
Commentary points out that there is no mention of work on the wall in this chapter. They are so busy dealing with the fallout of exorbitant fees that they could not focus on the real work that needed to be done—God’s work. Nehemiah understands that the money issues—greed and poverty, excess and want—are taking them away from the what is important—God’s work.
Nehemiah 5;12 “We will give it back,” they said. “And we will not demand anything more from them. We will do as you say.” Then I summoned the priests and made the nobles and officials take an oath to do what they had promised.
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You for understanding that there are so many things that get in the way of the work You would have us to do. Help us to stay focused on You and Your kingdom work. Help us not to take advantage of others just because it is possible for us to do so. Help us to work together to shine Your light and continue Your work. Draw us closer. Amen.
Nehemiah 5:16 …I devoted myself to the work on this wall. All my men were assembled there for the work; we did not acquire any land.
Have a blessed day.