“If you exploit them in any way and they cry out to me, then I will certainly hear their cry…
If…your neighbor cries out to me for help, then I will hear, for I am merciful.’”
Exodus 22:23 &27
The loving, caring heart of God we saw revealed in the rules of relationship continues to shine through His next rules of protection. From the treatment of slaves, foreigners, enemies, and the poor, to handling gossip and personal injury, to the protection of neighbors and their property, God’s rules covered every detail of life! Such rules may seem ridiculous, unless we examine the heart from which they came.
These desert nomads were GOD’s creation. Every individual was formed in their mother’s womb by the hands of a personal God, EACH ONE a treasure of His heart. What the Creator creates, the Creator loves, and what He loves, He guards. Often that protection comes in the form of rules, which are boundaries made to shelter His beloved handiwork.
Many accuse God of being too harsh. However, notice His anger was directed toward those who disregarded His rules and exploited one of HIS treasures! In fact, God specifically said if THEY cried out to Him for help, He would certainly hear their cry, and His anger would blaze against the one who hurt HIS treasure!
Be encouraged, YOU too are God’s treasured creation…You too are sheltered by rules, straight from God’s loving heart. So, no matter your circumstance, when YOU cry to Him for help, HE will certainly hear!
