Recently, I have heard so many bizarre stories of persons feeling as if they are being taken advantage of, or there is an attempt by businesses, family, friends, government, etc. to do so. As we continue to come out of the pandemic, we must remember that businesses and people are hurting and may feel the need to take advantage of folk in an effort to make up on some of their financial losses. Even some family members have stooped to an all time low after a loved one dies. Some family members have had to take matters to court because of being taken advantage of by other family members. Case and point, one family member has paid the taxes on a piece of property for years in hopes of keeping the property in the family. However, other family members who have paid not one dime to save the property attempt to place a claim on the property. I would say that is being taken advantage of.

I write this message as a means of warning to all, for scammers and prowlers are scoping you out to see how they can get over on you.   

Last week one of my daughters took her car into a dealership for a routine maintenance check-up and oil change. The technician assessed the needs for her car and reported that it would cost $2,000.00 for the repairs plus $101.00 for the oil change. Of course, she called her dad in a panic to inquire as to whether she should get the car repaired or not. Her dad suggested she tell the mechanic/technician to take her car off the lift and bring it home without the repairs. The dealership’s technician gave her the key and she drove the car to the family mechanic who made all the repairs, parts and labor, included for approximately $500.00. This is a prime example of someone being taken advantage of. To all women, the elderly and young people, beware of these high estimates on automobile repairs. They see you as bait coming tangled up in excessive payments for work not needed or undone. I believe they think a woman will panic because of the fear that is placed in them regarding the problem with the car. This is not an offensive statement about women, for it could apply to anyone, but women have become prey to these predators.                           

Proverbs 10:9 (ESV) says, “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.” Yes, if we pay close attention to our business matters, we can avoid being taken advantage of. In many instances, we just simply need to get a second opinion when it comes to repairs, be it appliances, automobiles, home repairs, etc. Secondly, do a little research via google and other search engines to determine what repairs and items should cost. In many instances, the wrong that people are attempting to do will come to light.     

Unfortunately, the pandemic is being blamed for many of the unscrupulous acts we are being faced with today.  It seems as if consumers are being taken advantage of when we go to the gas pumps, grocery store, etc., for prices on most items have skyrocketed. Again, compare prices and shop wisely. Many experts believe that inflation is higher than reported and it is hurting seniors and the poor.

Even so, this is what we must practice as human beings who care about each other, “Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to doing that which is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, Vengeance is mine, I will repay says the Lord” (Romans 12:17-19).   

If you use a credit card on a regular basis, be sure to check your statement when it comes in or go online to ensure that charges are accurate. I Purchased some items from a general store recently, and my credit card statement revealed an amount that was higher than what I had supposedly paid for them in the store. My statement was taken to the general store and the correction was made to my credit card.      

Now this one gets me. You make a loan to a friend and they promise to pay you back within a certain period of time, but fail to do so. It could be that their money is still short, but if they are buying new cars, clothes, etc., etc., surely the loan could be paid. If you make a loan, my advice is to consider it a gift and you won’t be disappointed.

Lastly, let’s just be alert and cautious as we operate in unprecedented times.

Not a sermon, just my thoughts.

Robert Earl Slade