Deuteronomy 15:9

Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought in your heart: "The seventh year, the year of release, is near," so that you look upon your poor brother begrudgingly and give him nothing. He will cry out to the LORD against you, and you will be guilty of sin.

Study Bible

Be careful not to harbor
The Hebrew root for "be careful" is "שָׁמַר" (shamar), which means to guard, keep, or watch over. This implies a vigilant and proactive stance in one's spiritual and moral life. The phrase suggests an intentional effort to guard one's heart against negative inclinations. In a conservative Christian perspective, this vigilance is a call to align one's thoughts and actions with God's commandments, emphasizing the importance of internal purity and righteousness.

this wicked thought
The term "wicked" comes from the Hebrew "בְּלִיַּעַל" (belial), often associated with worthlessness or evil. The "thought" here is not just a fleeting idea but a deep-seated attitude that can lead to sin. This highlights the biblical principle that sin often begins in the heart and mind, reinforcing the need for believers to cultivate a heart that reflects God's love and justice.

in your heart
The "heart" in Hebrew, "לֵב" (lev), is considered the center of one's being, encompassing mind, will, and emotions. It is where decisions are made and intentions are formed. The scripture underscores the importance of maintaining a pure heart, as it is the wellspring of life and the source of one's actions and attitudes.

‘The seventh year, the year of release, is near,’
This refers to the "Shemitah" year, a sabbatical year observed every seven years when debts were to be forgiven. The historical context of this practice is rooted in God's provision and care for the community, ensuring that no one remains in perpetual poverty. It reflects God's justice and mercy, reminding believers of the importance of compassion and generosity.

so that you look grudgingly
The phrase "look grudgingly" translates from the Hebrew "רָעָה עַיִן" (ra'ah ayin), literally "evil eye." This idiom conveys an attitude of stinginess or envy. In biblical times, the "evil eye" was believed to have the power to harm others through jealousy or malice. This serves as a warning against allowing selfishness to dictate one's actions, especially towards those in need.

on your poor brother
The term "brother" here is not limited to familial relations but extends to fellow Israelites, emphasizing the communal responsibility to care for one another. The use of "poor" highlights the vulnerable position of those in need, calling believers to act with empathy and support, reflecting God's love for all His children.

and give him nothing
This phrase underscores the sin of omission, where failing to act in kindness and generosity is seen as a moral failing. In the conservative Christian view, it is a reminder that faith must be accompanied by works, as true faith manifests in love and service to others.

Then he may appeal to the LORD against you
The concept of appealing to the LORD indicates that God is the ultimate judge and defender of the oppressed. It serves as a sobering reminder that God hears the cries of the needy and holds His people accountable for their actions towards others.

and you will be guilty of sin
The declaration of guilt emphasizes the seriousness of neglecting one's duty to care for the poor. Sin, in this context, is not just a personal failing but a breach of covenantal responsibility. It calls believers to repentance and a renewed commitment to live according to God's standards of justice and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
- The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws and instructions to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
- The chosen people of God, receiving the laws and commandments as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

3. The Seventh Year (Year of Release)
- A sabbatical year in which debts were to be forgiven, reflecting God's provision and mercy.

4. The Poor Brother
- Represents those in need within the community, whom God commands to be treated with compassion and generosity.

5. The LORD
- The ultimate judge and authority, to whom the poor may appeal if wronged.

Teaching Points

Guard Your Heart Against Selfishness
The verse warns against harboring wicked thoughts that prioritize self-interest over obedience to God's commands. Believers are called to examine their hearts and motives, ensuring they align with God's will.

Embrace Generosity as a Reflection of God's Character
God's command to release debts in the seventh year reflects His mercy and provision. Christians are encouraged to mirror this generosity, trusting in God's provision rather than clinging to material wealth.

Recognize the Spiritual Consequences of Neglecting the Needy
Ignoring the needs of others, especially when motivated by selfishness, is considered sin. Believers are reminded that God sees and judges the intentions of the heart, and they are accountable to Him.

Understand the Importance of Community Support
The command to care for the poor brother emphasizes the importance of community and mutual support. Christians are called to build a community that reflects God's love and care for all its members.

Trust in God's Justice and Provision
The possibility of the poor appealing to the LORD serves as a reminder of God's justice. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's provision and justice, rather than relying solely on their own understanding and resources.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the Year of Release challenge our modern views on debt and financial responsibility?

2. In what ways can we guard our hearts against the "wicked thought" mentioned in Deuteronomy 15:9?

3. How can we practically apply the principle of generosity in our daily lives, especially towards those in need?

4. What are some ways our church community can better support and care for the "poor brother" among us?

5. How do the teachings in Deuteronomy 15:9 connect with Jesus' teachings on wealth and generosity in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25
Discusses the Sabbatical Year and the Year of Jubilee, emphasizing rest and release.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus teaches about storing treasures in heaven, encouraging generosity and a heart free from greed.

James 2:14-17
Highlights the importance of faith accompanied by works, particularly in caring for those in need.

1 John 3:17
Stresses the necessity of showing love through action, especially towards those in need.