Ephesians 4:28
“He who steals must steal no longer; but rather he must labor, performing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with one who has need.”
This seems like an obvious comment. Why does he make it. Thou shall not steal is one of the commandments. Everyone would have known it.
Stealing is probably a habit learned when young. Our parents teach us the value of work. This is a multifaceted lesson. First we learns some skills, This is huge. We become competent at something. This is where self esteem (confidence) comes from. We could tell someone “good job” and if it isn’t, it’s meaningless. The young person knows it’s not good. Verbal praise is important, but competence must be present.
Paul refers to another benefit of work, sharing with others. Paul quotes Jesus in Acts 20:35, “In everything I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'” The thief never learns this lesson. When we get something, the enthusiasm wears off and we get bored and move on to the next pursuit. However, the joy of giving lasts. It warms us whenever we think of it. It also boosts our reputation. We gain honor (Proverbs 21:21). Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.” God wants to honor us. We should be of a good reputation.
While these are basic lessons, some never learn them. The self absorbed person doesn’t. These end up having difficult social issues their entire lives. The narcisist doesn’t. They demand attention. If there is giving in their lives, it’s for the purpose of getting. Paul’s verse is speaking of the reclaimation of a life. Which in turn helps other lives.
Lord, thank You for Your ways. They heal us and make us better. Help us to yield to them.