Deuteronomy 22-24 -- Sins Of Omission

The Bible doesn’t deal simply with sins of commission – the things we do that are sinful.  Here, Moses gives us God’s take on sins of omission as well – such as ignoring a plight of our neighbors and not helping, thinking that it’s none of our business. 

God also forbids sins of negligence where our failure to take reasonable care causes another person harm.

For the Jewish people, God had special commands for separateness to remind them that they were His holy people.  In the same way, we are called to separate ourselves from evil – to not mix with it and “spiritually infect” ourselves with sin by doing so.

God also gave special consideration to those needing extra protection, such as orphans, widows, and in many cases women in general.  Those lows did much to offer protection for the weak in what then was a very male-dominated area of the world.

Father, thank You for the reminder that I sin when I fail to help others in need.  I cannot simply say, “That’s not my job,” for You look after each and every one of us, and draw to Yourself with Your love.  And with these commands You are having us be more like You.

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford