Old Testament
Deuteronomy 15:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Do not feel burdened when you set a servant free, because they have been worth twice as much as a hired worker by serving you for six years. And the LORD your God will bless you in everything you do.
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It shall not seem hard unto thee, when thou sendest him away free from thee; for he hath been worth a double hired servant to thee, in serving thee six years: and the LORD thy God shall bless thee in all that thou doest.
What Deuteronomy 15:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
When you decide to set a servant free after they have worked for you for six years, don’t let it weigh heavily on your heart. Remember, they have been incredibly valuable to you, worth twice as much as a hired worker. This is a time to celebrate their freedom and the contributions they made during their service. By releasing them, you are not just fulfilling a duty; you are also honoring their hard work and dedication. The act of freeing them is a blessing, and it reflects kindness and generosity. Trust that God will reward you for your good actions. He will bless you in all your endeavors, ensuring that your generosity does not go unnoticed. This principle encourages us to treat others with respect and compassion, recognizing their worth and contributions. It’s a reminder that kindness leads to blessings in our lives, both for ourselves and for those we help. Embrace the joy of giving freedom and the rewards that come from it, knowing that God supports your good deeds.
How to apply Deuteronomy 15:18 to your life
Consider how you treat those who work for you. Are you recognizing their contributions and valuing their efforts? When the time comes to let someone go, do so with gratitude and kindness. This will not only uplift them but also bring blessings into your life as well. Embrace the spirit of generosity in your daily interactions!
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
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Keep studying Deuteronomy 15:18
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At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 15:18 mean?
Deuteronomy 15:18 encourages people to release their servants after six years of service without feeling burdened. It highlights the value of the servant's contributions and assures that God will bless those who act generously.
What is the meaning of 'servant free' in Deuteronomy 15:18?
In Deuteronomy 15:18, 'servant free' refers to the practice of releasing a servant after six years of service. This act is seen as a way to honor their hard work and to celebrate their freedom.
How does Deuteronomy 15:18 relate to generosity?
Deuteronomy 15:18 teaches that generosity in releasing a servant is rewarded by God. It encourages people to act kindly and recognize the worth of those who serve them.
What themes are present in Deuteronomy 15:18?
The themes in Deuteronomy 15:18 include freedom, the value of service, generosity, blessings, and kindness. It emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect and compassion.
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