These chapters primarily deal with the relationship and walk of God's earthly people. In Moses' day, great consideration was shown to the poor. Wages were paid daily, and loans and gifts were made to the needy. Gleanings were to be left in the harvest fields for the poor.
All through the Old Testament emphasis is placed on kindness to widows, orphans, and strangers. We also see that the judgments brought on certain sins were very severe. Many offenses were punishable by death. Some of these laws may seem very severe to us. However, if we could transport ourselves back to Moses' time, they probably would not seem severe enough. The Law given to Moses insisted on personal morality and equality, and had consideration for the old and young, for the slave, and for the enemy. It even covered health and food regulations. It showed a wisdom far in advance of any previous Law. Remember that the Law given by God was given as a school teacher or master to bring us to Christ (Galatians 3:24).
Chapter 19:18 was one of the highlights of Mosaic law, "...thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. I am the LORD." If we would simply obey this law, we would have fewer problems. In our fast-moving society, more often than not, next door neighbors rarely speak. Christians should make it a point to share the love of Jesus Christ with everyone they come in contact with. We should also be kind, helpful, and respectful to our neighbors. You might have a neighbor who is a drunkard, or a family living near you who is completely oblivious to God. God says that we should show them the love of God through our lives, our concern, and our love toward them. You might be God's instrument for winning them to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Let your neighbors become your concern, and let them see Christ through your daily actions.
