You shall not curse the deaf, nor put a stumbling block before the blind; but you shall fear your God. I am Yahweh.
Leviticus 19:14 · World English Bible
Remove the Obstacle
Leviticus 19:14 forbids exploiting another person’s disability, whether through words they cannot hear or an obstacle they cannot see. Within God’s instructions for Israel’s shared life, this command ties the treatment of vulnerable neighbors to reverence for him: another person’s inability to detect or challenge cruelty never makes it acceptable. The closing words, “I am Yahweh,” establish that God’s authority, not the likelihood of being caught, governs how his people should act. Today, receive this command first as a call to reject ridicule, deception, and any advantage gained through someone else’s vulnerability, including jokes made when a person cannot hear or respond. Then consider the spaces and conversations you help shape: keep a walkway clear, provide written information when needed, or ask someone what would make participation easier, offering help without assuming you understand their needs better than they do.
Morning Prayer
Father, you are holy, and no hidden cruelty escapes your notice. Let reverence for you shape how I treat people today. Forgive my careless jokes and my willingness to overlook barriers that do not affect me. Give me attention, practical wisdom, and the means to help. Teach me to listen rather than assume, and keep me from using anyone’s vulnerability for my advantage. Amen.
Evening Prayer
Father, I bring you the people I encountered today, including those whose difficulties I barely noticed. Your judgment is just, and your mercy is great. Forgive the times I made participation harder or stayed silent at ridicule. Show me what I should repair tomorrow. As I rest, guard those facing mistreatment, and teach me to honor you in conduct no one applauds. Amen.