1. Be openhanded toward the poor (1-11)

People who are tightfisted and selfish close their own lives to God's blessing. God helped his people be free from slavery to material things by telling them to cancel all debts every 7 years. They were not to be tightfisted or hardhearted toward the poor. They were to lend freely, without calculating about the 7th year; they were to give generously, without a grudging heart. God would bless them and make them rich. They would be lenders, not borrowers; they would rule others, not be ruled. They would live under God's blessing.

2. Set your servant free (12-23)

The Israelites had been slaves, but God redeemed them and set them free. They were still influenced by the culture of their times. But God told them to set Hebrew slaves free after 7 years, and not to send them away empty-handed. They were also to set aside the firstborn of the flock and eat before the Lord.

Application: Lord, give me a generous heart and an open hand. Teach me how to live under your blessing.
One Word: Don't be selfish