Deuteronomy 25:4
“4 “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain.”
Exploitation in the workplace is a pervasive issue that has existed for centuries. It takes many forms—unjust wages, overwork, manipulation, and even abuse. But God’s Word provides guidance on justice and righteousness in all areas of life, including the workplace. Deuteronomy 25:4, though seemingly simple in its agricultural context, holds profound truths about fair treatment, respect, and the dignity of labor.
Today, I want to speak not only from Scripture but also from a place of personal experience, having recently suffered under the weight of workplace abuse and exploitation. I endured daily mistreatment at the hands of those who should have led with integrity—the company owner and the CEO.
They used my skills and efforts for their gain while disregarding my well-being. For months, I bore the burden until I found the strength to stand up for myself. This message is for anyone who has suffered under oppression, who has been used and discarded, who has felt the pain of being terrorized in an environment meant to sustain them. God sees you, and His justice prevails.
I. God’s Standard for Fair Treatment in the Workplace
The command in Deuteronomy 25:4 is simple: do not muzzle the ox while it is treading the grain. This was a law given to Israel as part of God’s divine justice system. An ox that labors to grind the grain should be allowed to eat from it. In other words, the worker deserves to benefit from their labor.
This principle extends far beyond animals. The Apostle Paul referenced this verse in 1 Corinthians 9:9-10, emphasizing that those who work should receive their due reward. Exploitation—where employees are overworked, underpaid, or mistreated—is a direct violation of this divine standard.
Many of us have seen workplaces that muzzle their workers, treating them as mere resources to be drained rather than as people to be honored. Employers may extract everything from an employee’s labor, time, and mental energy while giving little in return. But God does not bless such exploitation. He calls leaders to act with fairness and justice.
II. Recognizing the Signs of Workplace Exploitation
There are clear signs when a workplace operates under an oppressive system:
- Unfair compensation: Paying workers far less than they are worth, withholding wages, or refusing to reward diligence.
- Verbal and psychological abuse: Manipulation, gaslighting, and belittling to instill fear and control.
- Unreasonable demands: Expecting employees to work beyond their capacity without consideration for their health or personal lives.
- Fear-based management: Leading through intimidation rather than encouragement and support.
I have lived this reality. I know what it means to wake up every morning with dread, to endure the constant belittling, the impossible expectations, and the emotional exhaustion. For months, I allowed it because I believed I had no choice. But God’s Word reminds us that we are not called to be slaves to abusive systems.
III. Standing Up Against Exploitation: Finding Strength in God
There comes a moment when we must put our foot down. When we must say, “Enough.” When we must remember that God did not create us to be used and discarded. He calls us His beloved, His chosen, His children.
Standing up for oneself in a toxic workplace is not easy. It requires faith, courage, and wisdom.
Here are biblical principles to help guide us:
- Know Your Worth in Christ – Psalm 139:14 reminds us that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made.” You are not just an employee; you are a child of God. No one has the right to demean or devalue you.
- Seek God’s Justice – Proverbs 22:22-23 says, “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.” God defends the oppressed. When we stand for truth, we stand with Him.
- Find Strength to Speak Out – When I finally confronted the abuse, I was afraid. I knew there could be consequences. But silence enables oppression. Exodus 14:14 says, “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” God empowers us to stand firm.
- Trust in God’s Provision – One of the greatest fears that keeps people in abusive workplaces is financial insecurity. But Matthew 6:26 reminds us that if God cares for the birds of the air, He will surely provide for His children. Trusting God means believing He will make a way, even when the path is unclear.
IV. God’s Promise of Justice and Restoration
God does not overlook injustice. He hears the cries of the oppressed. James 5:4 declares, “Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.”
Every tear shed in pain, every sleepless night caused by workplace terror, every moment of suffering—it is seen by God. He is the righteous judge, and He will bring justice in His time.
For those who have been victims of workplace abuse, know this: your suffering is not in vain. God will restore what was taken. He will heal your wounds. He will open doors no man can shut.
To anyone who has been exploited, mistreated, or terrorized at work, let me say this: You are more than what they made you feel. You are not defined by their abuse. You are a person of value, loved by God, and worthy of respect.
If you are still in a toxic workplace, seek God’s wisdom on how to move forward. If you have already broken free, ask Him to heal your heart and restore your confidence. Whatever you do, do not let the wounds of the past define your future.
Deuteronomy 25:4 reminds us that labor should be honored, not exploited. May we live by this principle, ensuring that no one—ourselves or others—suffers under the weight of injustice. Stand firm, trust in God’s justice, and walk boldly in the freedom He provides.P
To God be all the glory, now and forever.
Were you able to glean and grow from this message so God can be further glorified and His Kingdom magnified? If so, I would love to hear from you. Follow this link to get in touch… Let’s pray!
Heavenly Father,
You see all things.
You know the suffering of those who have been mistreated and used.
You are the God of justice, and You fight for Your people.
Strengthen those who are weary.
Provide for those who are struggling.
Heal the wounds of workplace abuse.
And may we always stand for righteousness in every area of life.
Amen.
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
