Using others for personal gain is something most people would agree is wrong, but does the Bible have specific teachings about this behavior? Let’s see what scripture says about treating others with respect and avoiding exploitation.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Evil Doers
What Does The Bible Say About Using People
Proverbs 19:19
A hot-tempered person must pay the penalty; rescue them, and you will have to do it again.
This verse warns against the consequences of being used by a hot-tempered person. While it may be tempting to rescue them and meet their needs, it can become a never-ending cycle of being taken advantage of.
We should exercise discernment and set healthy boundaries to avoid becoming a pawn in someone else’s manipulative behavior.
Matthew 7:6
“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”
This verse advises us not to waste our valuable resources, time, and energy on those who will not appreciate or respect them. Some individuals may not be receptive to our help or the truth we offer and may instead harm us.
Therefore, it is essential to discern the character and intentions of people before investing ourselves in their lives, protecting our own well-being in the process.
Proverbs 14:20
“The poor are shunned even by their neighbors, but the rich have many friends.”
This verse highlights how some people may be used solely for their financial status. The poor may experience isolation and rejection, while the wealthy may attract numerous friends who may have ulterior motives.
It is crucial to cultivate genuine relationships based on character and not be drawn into shallow connections that exploit others for personal gain.
Psalm 41:9
“Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.”
This verse emphasizes the painful reality that even those closest to us can betray and use us for their own purposes. It serves as a reminder to exercise caution and not blindly trust others.
We should be discerning and seek genuine friendships where trust and mutual respect are present.
James 2:5
“Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?”
This verse reminds us that God looks beyond material wealth and societal status. He values those who are faithful and love Him, regardless of their financial or social standing.
Therefore, we should not be influenced by others’ opinions or worldly standards when determining someone’s worth and how they should be treated.
Proverbs 29:5
“Those who flatter their neighbors are spreading nets for their feet.”
This verse warns against those who use flattery as a means of manipulation. They may employ deceitful tactics to trap others and exploit them for personal gain.
We should be cautious of insincere compliments and be discerning of people’s intentions, ensuring that we are not being used for their selfish purposes.
Matthew 26:15
“And asked, ‘What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?’ So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver.”
This verse recounts Judas’ betrayal of Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. It serves as a cautionary tale of individuals who are willing to betray others for personal gain.
We should be wary of those who are willing to use and exploit others for their own benefit and make sure we are not enticed by similar temptations.
Proverbs 19:6
“Many curry favor with a ruler, and everyone is the friend of one who gives gifts.”
This verse highlights the tendency for people to use flattery and gift-giving to gain favor and manipulate those in positions of power.
We should be mindful of the intentions behind such actions and value character and integrity over empty gestures.
Proverbs 6:35
“He will not accept any compensation; he will refuse a bribe, however great it is.”
This verse speaks of a person who cannot be bought or swayed by bribes. It highlights the importance of integrity and not allowing ourselves to be used for dishonest or unethical purposes.
We should strive to maintain our values and refuse any form of compensation or favor that goes against our principles.
Proverbs 19:4
“Wealth attracts many friends, but even the closest friend of the poor person deserts them.”
This verse observes the disparity in friendships based on wealth. It acknowledges that many may be drawn to those who have wealth, while those who are poor often find themselves abandoned and alone.
We should be aware of the superficiality of friendships based on material gain and seek genuine connections that are not driven by personal interests.
James 4:4
“You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.”
This verse warns against aligning ourselves too closely with the values and desires of the world. It emphasizes the need to prioritize our relationship with God over seeking approval and acceptance from worldly sources.
We should be cautious of those who try to manipulate us into compromising our faith or who use us to promote worldly pursuits.
Proverbs 20:19
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.”
This verse highlights the destructive nature of gossip and the importance of avoiding those who engage in excessive talking and spreading of confidential information.
We should be cautious of those who may use personal information to manipulate and control others, protecting ourselves by keeping our own words and actions honest and trustworthy.
Proverbs 27:6
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
This verse reminds us that true friends may offer sincere correction, even if it is painful. In contrast, those who seek to use and deceive us may shower us with false affection.
We should value relationships built on honesty and genuine care, recognizing the difference between constructive criticism from a true friend and manipulative behavior.
Matthew 23:5-7
“Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; they love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others.”
This verse describes the behavior of hypocritical religious leaders who craved recognition and prestige. They wanted to be seen as important and influential in society.
We should be cautious of those who use religion or spirituality for personal gain, seeking true humility and authenticity in our own faith and interactions with others.
Job 6:14
“Anyone who withholds kindness from a friend forsakes the fear of the Almighty.”
This verse emphasizes that when we withhold kindness from a friend, we disregard our reverence for God. It reminds us that our treatment of others reflects our relationship with God.
We should be mindful of how we use people and ensure that our actions align with the love and kindness God calls us to display.
2 Peter 2:3
“In their greed, these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping.”
This verse warns against false teachers who use deceitful tactics, exploiting people for personal gain. It serves as a reminder to be discerning and not fall into the trap of those who manipulate others for their own agenda.
We should test the teachings of others against the truth of God’s Word and be wary of those who seek to exploit our trust and faith.
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever despises their neighbor sins, but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of kindness toward those in need. It warns against using and despising our neighbors and instead encourages us to extend compassion and help to those who require it.
We should prioritize love and genuine care for others rather than treating them as means to our own ends.
Proverbs 28:21
“To show partiality is not good— yet a person will do wrong for a piece of bread.”
This verse addresses the injustice of showing favoritism or prejudice. It highlights how some individuals may compromise their integrity and principles for personal gain or material rewards.
We should strive for fairness and righteousness in our relationships, refraining from using or betraying others for temporary benefits.
Matthew 23:14
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You devour widows’ houses and for a show, make lengthy prayers. Therefore, you will be punished more severely.”
This verse denounces religious leaders who exploit vulnerable individuals, such as widows, while pretending to be devout. It serves as a warning of the consequences for those who use people in the name of religion or righteousness.
We should be cautious of those who use spirituality as a façade for manipulation, seeking true humility and compassion.
Proverbs 22:16
“One who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and one who gives gifts to the rich—both come to poverty.”
This verse cautions against exploiting the poor in an attempt to amass wealth or seeking favor with the rich through excessive gifting. It points out the inherent folly in using people for personal gain.
We should strive for justice and equality, valuing every individual’s dignity and worth, rather than engaging in acts of exploitation.
Luke 22:48
“But Jesus asked him, ‘Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?'”
This verse reveals Judas’ betrayal of Jesus through an act of false affection. It serves as a reminder that even seemingly friendly gestures can be used as tools of manipulation.
We should be discerning and cautious of those who use superficial acts of love or friendship to deceive and exploit others.
Proverbs 22:22-23
“Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court, for the Lord will take up their case and will exact life for life.”
This verse admonishes us against exploiting the vulnerable and mistreating the needy. It assures that God will act as their advocate and won’t allow their oppression to go unnoticed or unpunished.
We should actively stand against injustice and use our influence to uplift and support those in need, rather than contributing to their mistreatment.
Proverbs 14:31
“Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.”
This verse highlights how mistreating the poor is akin to disrespecting God. It emphasizes the importance of kindness and compassion towards those who lack resources or are oppressed.
We should view every individual as made in the image of God, treating them with dignity and respect, rather than using or disregarding them for personal gain.
Psalm 12:2
“Everyone lies to their neighbor; they flatter with their lips but harbor deception in their hearts.”
This verse reveals the presence of deception in people’s interactions, with many using flattery as a guise for their ulterior motives.
We should be discerning and cautious of those who may flatter us superficially, examining their true intentions and protecting ourselves from being used for their personal agendas.