⁹ For it is written in the Law of Moses: “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain.”^[a](A) Is it about oxen that God is concerned?^(B)

⁴ Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain.^(A)

¹⁸ For Scripture says, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,”^[a](A) and “The worker deserves his wages.”^[b](B)

¹¹ And should I not have concern^(A) for the great city of Nineveh,^(B) in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left—and also many animals?”

²⁴ Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them.^(A) And how much more valuable you are than birds! ²⁵ Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life^[a]? ²⁶ Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?

²⁷ “Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor^(B) was dressed like one of these. ²⁸ If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith!^(C)

22 If you see your fellow Israelite’s ox or sheep straying, do not ignore it but be sure to take it back to its owner.^{(A) 2} If they do not live near you or if you do not know who owns it, take it home with you and keep it until they come looking for it. Then give it back. ³ Do the same if you find their donkey or cloak or anything else they have lost. Do not ignore it.

⁴ If you see your fellow Israelite’s donkey^(B) or ox fallen on the road, do not ignore it. Help the owner get it to its feet.^(C)