2-5-07 Psalms 15:1, 5

Psalms 15:1, 5 (KJ21)
(A Psalm of David.)
LORD, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in Thy holy hill?...he that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh a bribe against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.

Psalms 15:1, 5 (NAS)
(A Psalm of David.)
O LORD, who may abide in Thy tent? Who may dwell on Thy holy hill?...He does not put out his money at interest, Nor does he take a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things will never be shaken.

Psalms 15:1, 5 (NIVUS)
(A psalm of David.)
LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill?... who lends his money without usury and does not accept a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things will never be shaken.

Psalms 15:1, 5 (NLT)
(A psalm of David.)
Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?... Those who do not charge interest on the money they lend, and who refuse to accept bribes to testify against the innocent. Such people will stand firm forever.

You live in a time of "easy credit", when you can buy almost anything on time payments. However, that "easy credit" gets many people in trouble. It is easy to overextend yourself if you do not keep track of what you owe. This is a problem that the Lord addresses in His word. He warns His people against employing such practices.

If you have silver and gold that other people can long for and yearn after, then you are cautioned not to lend your money out at interest. If you do this, you are taking a bite out of someone else's life. It would be better for both of you, if you have the money, to give it as a gift and not look for any return on it. If you do this, the Lord will reward you.

You also should not take a bribe to do harm to another who is innocent and guiltless. When you receive a bribe, you are already captured by the enemy and you are stealing from someone else. You should not receive a reward through another's misfortune.

Choosing to follow the Lord's instruction in these areas and doing what He wants will keep you slipping and falling. You will not easily be overthrown, for you feet will be planted on solid ground and you will not totter. In fact, you will be welcomed into the house of God, where you will dwell safely and securely forever.