THIRD WOE | EMPIRE BUILDING

While the first two “woes” God addresses relate to the extortion of physical wealth, the third focuses on the unjust treatment of others, particularly in the pursuit of building "empires." Habakkuk 2:9-11 states, "Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness and his upper rooms by injustice, who makes his neighbor serve him for nothing and does not give him his wages… The stone will cry out from the wall, and the beam from the woodwork respond." This passage powerfully illustrates God’s condemnation of those who exploit others to gain advantage or wealth.

Today, this applies to how companies treat their employees, how neighbors interact, or even how we engage with global supply chains. It is crucial to value individuals over their productivity or what they can offer. You might not directly extort wealth, but you likely benefit from or contribute to how others are treated, often unknowingly. Consider the pervasive desire for convenience and cheapness in our culture. Products that are exceptionally cheap are often so because people are being exploited—denied fair wages, subjected to harsh work environments, or contributing to excessive waste that fills landfills. This isn't merely about caring for our environment; it's about deeply caring for the well-being of others. Critically examining the origins of your products and considering who you allow to source items for your home or work has a direct impact on how people are treated. These are significant considerations. On a smaller scale, observe how you treat each person you interact with daily. Do you extend the kindness, patience, and compassion that are fruits of the Holy Spirit or are you tempted to focus on your own convenience and comfort?