28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.



Ver. 28. Let him labour, working, &c.] This is the best remedy against poverty, which often prompts a man to theft, Pro_30:9. {See Trapp on "Pro_30:9"} The Grand Turk himself must be of some trade (Peacham); and Seneca said he had rather be sick in his bed than idle. How much more should "all ours learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful!" Tit_3:14.



That he may have to give] Day labourers then must do somewhat for the poor. And indeed, alms should not be given until it "sweat in a man’s hand," saith he, in the Book of Martyrs. Giles of Brussels gave away to the poor whatsoever he had that necessity could spare, and only lived by his science, which was that of a cutler. (Acts and Mon.)