Biblical Principles for Workers’ Compensation

Several scripture passages outline the basic principles of employers caring for their employees. These principles led to basic workers’ compensation schemes that have evolved into the complex insurance systems we have today.

Joseph interpreted Pharaoh’s dream and communicated the wisdom of storing up part of the abundance in good years to protect against lean years. The same principle exists in workers’ compensation insurance where a small part of operating revenue is “stored up” in an insurance policy to protect the business against future problems.

Other biblical verses outline why securing workers’ compensation insurance for your employees is not only a legal but moral obligation. Leviticus 19:13 says, “Thou shalt not defraud thy neighbor, neither rob him: the wages of him that is hired shall not abide with thee all night until the morning.” Deuteronomy 24:14-15 states, “Thou shalt not oppress an hired servant that is poor and needy, whether he be of thy brethren, or of thy strangers that are in thy land within thy gates.” Workers’ compensation insurance protects your employees when they are hurt serving you. Failing to secure workers’ compensation usually robs your employee of basic sustenance benefits and medical care that they need.

“A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.” Proverbs 22:3. A smart employer foresees the day when a workplace accident takes place. They protect themselves and their employees by providing workers’ compensation insurance. Employers that fail to secure workers’ compensation are punished. They can be fined but the State and create additional liability for an employee’s injuries because an injured worker may be able to directly sue the business for their injuries and damages.

Finally, Colossians 4:1 reiterates, “Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.” I sue employers and insurance companies who fail to do what is just and equal. It is also shocking to see business owners’ dishonesty. We have seen employers fail to report accidents, lie under oath, spoliate or destroy evidence, and fire employees who get injured on the job. Our job is to fight for justice to make sure injured workers and their families are treated fairly by their employers and the insurance companies. It is a great privilege to help those in need and ensure that justice prevails.