God’s civil laws for Israel are also spiritual in nature. They reflect God’s moral standard, and set Israel apart from other nations. When God’s people in Israel keep these civil laws, it is a reflection of their daily walk and relationship with God. For us, the principles of these civil laws of God can guide us in our daily life, helping us to walk aright before God.

1.  Walk not as the heathens (Exod 22:18-20)

Three aspects are covered here:

(a) God’s children must never practise witchcraft (Exod 22:18) which involves demonic powers, including black magic or medicinal practices derived from superstitions. The practice of witchcraft is based on one’s rejection of God, thus it is a great crime. We must never be associated with witchcraft. The only one who has power over all things is God.

(b) One who “lieth with a beast” (Exod 22:19) commits a heinous sin. It shows one’s low view of man, equating man with animals. This distorts God’s Word which tells us that we are made in God’s image.

(c) Worshipping idols (Exod 22:20) is disobedience to God. God has commanded that we are to worship and serve Him only (Exod 20:3-5).

God’s children must not live like the heathens, but live according to God’s Word.

2.  Walk in love and compassion (Exod 22:21-27)

Three groups of people are mentioned here:

(a) The “stranger” (Exod 22:21) – God’s children must not oppress “strangers,” especially those who are believers of God. We are to empathise with and welcome them and not discriminate against them.

(b) The “widow, or fatherless child” (Exod 22:22) – These refer to the weak/vulnerable, who must not be despised or seen as a burden. (See James 1:27.)

(c) The “poor” (Exod 22:25) – When helping the poor, we may lend them money, but without charging interest. We help with compassion, noting the poor’s needs. At the same time, we must be wise, so that our kindness will not be abused.

3.  Walk in holiness (Exod 22:28-31)

God’s children must not revile or mock leaders (“gods,” Exod 22:28) or governors, but are to submit to their authority and governance. We must consecrate our all (Exod 22:29), which includes our lives and possessions, to God by giving Him our very best. This will set us apart from the world. We are to be “holy men” (Exod 22:31) unto God.