Double Standards

There is a theme throughout the Old Testament that needs constant attention: God will not tolerate business practices that are dishonest, false, or even questionable. It has its roots in the Law, is emphasized by the prophets, and has a place of prominence in Wisdom Literature.

In Biblical times the phrase “dishonest scales” was used and meant “scales of deceit.” Also used was the phrase “a just weight” or “an accurate” or “perfect stone.” Merchants used “stones” as measures in place of coins and conducted their businesses by using balances and weighted stones. It was common knowledge that merchants had two sets of stones: one for selling and one for purchasing goods. When purchasing products for selling, they would use the heavier stone to gain an advantage over the person who was selling them goods to be resold. When selling their product to others, they would use the lighter stone, which resulted in the customer getting much less than what was paid for. Each stone was labeled, so the merchant knew he had the advantage.

Doing business like this was an “abomination to the Lord,” was unacceptable to Him, and one He would not tolerate. On the other hand, “an accurate weight” found “favor with Him.”

This comes as no surprise to His faithful. God will honor and bless those whose life is consistent with His ways, His Word, and in agreement with His teachings. He will “favor” them.

Remember, the lives of those who profess to be His followers are always under His surveillance. He will honor their faithfulness to Him for the way they honor and treat others.

Prayer: Convict us, Lord, when we are less than honest in any of our ways. May we live lives that honor You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Proverbs 11:1 The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him.