Proverbs 20:14-16 (ESV)
14 “Bad, bad,” says the buyer,
but when he goes away, then he boasts.
15 There is gold and abundance of costly stones,
but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
16 Take a man’s garment when he has put up security for a stranger,
and hold it in pledge when he puts up security for foreigners.
God is not pleased with unjust transactions. We may act like something isn’t worth much and then rejoice because of the great “deal” we got, but the Lord does not condone this deceit. If the item is “bad,” then why buy it? Expensive things may be worth much, but honest words are most prized. It is stupid to jeopardize your life for the debt of a stranger. The one who puts herself at risk might as well have her own property taken away. Are you willing to be honest, even if it means you may miss the better end of an exchange? Or do you keep silent, later to return home boasting about how you took advantage of someone? If your gain means someone else’s loss, then walk away from the deal. You may not end up with a sack of gold, but your character will be worth more than any bank account can buy.