Debt can be a source of stress and burden, but the Bible provides practical advice on managing finances wisely. Today, we’ll learn how Scripture addresses debt and encourages financial stewardship.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Being In Christ
What Does The Bible Say About Being In Debt
Proverbs 22:7
“The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.”
This verse serves as a reminder that being in debt can leave us feeling trapped and controlled by our creditors. It emphasizes the importance of managing our finances wisely and avoiding unnecessary debt.
Debt can become a burden that affects our ability to live freely and make choices that align with our values and priorities. This verse encourages us to seek financial freedom by being responsible stewards of our resources.
Psalm 37:21
“The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously.”
This verse highlights the importance of integrity in financial matters. It contrasts those who borrow and fail to repay with those who give generously and fulfill their obligations.
As Christians, we are called to be people of integrity in all areas of our lives, including our finances. This verse reminds us of the importance of honoring our financial commitments and being faithful stewards of the resources entrusted to us.
Romans 13:8
“Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.”
This verse encourages believers to avoid accumulating debt whenever possible. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing love and relationships over financial obligations.
While there are circumstances where debt may be necessary, this verse reminds us of the significance of living with financial responsibility and seeking to be debt-free. It challenges us to focus on building meaningful relationships rather than being burdened by debt.
Proverbs 21:17
“Whoever loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and olive oil will never be rich.”
This verse warns against the dangers of living a pleasure-focused lifestyle that leads to financial instability. It cautions against prioritizing temporary indulgences over long-term financial security.
As Christians, we are called to exercise wisdom in our choices and avoid excessive spending on temporary pleasures. This verse encourages us to adopt a mindset of contentment and prioritize financial prudence.
Proverbs 6:1-5
“My child, if you have put up security for a friend’s debt or agreed to guarantee the debt of a stranger— if you have trapped yourself by your agreement and are caught by what you said—follow my advice and save yourself, for you have placed yourself at your friend’s mercy. Now swallow your pride; go and beg to have your name erased. Don’t put it off; do it now! Don’t rest until you do.”
This passage offers cautionary advice regarding the risks of taking on someone else’s debt. It encourages individuals to take immediate action to rectify any imprudent agreements they have made.
By urging transparency and advocating for personal responsibility, this verse emphasizes the importance of protecting one’s financial well-being and avoiding situations that may lead to unnecessary indebtedness.
Matthew 5:25-26
“Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.”
This passage highlights the significance of resolving financial conflicts and legal disputes promptly. It emphasizes the potential consequences of prolonging unresolved matters and the importance of taking proactive steps to address financial obligations.
As Christians, we are called to seek peaceful resolutions and strive for financial integrity. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring our financial responsibilities and avoiding unnecessary legal entanglements.
Proverbs 22:26-27
“Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you.”
This verse warns against the pitfalls of guaranteeing debts or borrowing beyond our means. It highlights the potential consequences of entering into financial agreements without adequate resources to fulfill them.
As Christians, we are called to exercise wisdom and prudence in our financial decisions. This verse reminds us to consider the long-term implications of our commitments and to avoid situations that may lead to financial instability.
Ecclesiastes 5:4-5
“When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow. It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.”
This passage emphasizes the importance of honoring our commitments, including financial obligations made to God or others. It highlights the value of integrity and the negative consequences of failing to fulfill promises.
As Christians, we are called to be people of integrity in all areas of our lives, including our financial dealings. This verse challenges us to follow through on our commitments and maintain trustworthiness in our financial responsibilities.
Proverbs 13:11
“Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.”
This verse contrasts the consequences of ill-gotten wealth with the benefits of acquiring money through honest and diligent means. It highlights the fleeting nature of dishonest gain and the value of steady and ethical financial practices.
As Christians, we are called to pursue financial growth through honest means and to avoid shortcuts that compromise our integrity. This verse encourages us to cultivate patience and discipline in our financial pursuits.
Deuteronomy 28:12
“The Lord will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none.”
This verse offers a promise of God’s provision and blessing for His faithful people. It assures believers that if they follow God’s commands, they will not be in a position of constant borrowing.
While this verse acknowledges the potential for lending to others, it establishes the principle that God intends for His people to be lenders rather than borrowers. It encourages financial stewardship and faithfulness in managing resources.
Proverbs 17:18
“One who has no sense shakes hands in pledge and puts up security for a neighbor.”
This verse cautions against making hasty decisions to guarantee the debts of others without careful consideration. It underscores the importance of discernment and wisdom in financial matters.
As Christians, we are called to exercise good judgment and prudence in our financial dealings. This verse reminds us to evaluate the potential risks and consequences before entering into financial agreements on behalf of others.
Proverbs 6:6-8
“Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.”
This passage encourages individuals to learn from the diligence and foresight of ants. It highlights the importance of planning, saving, and being prepared for future needs.
As Christians, we are called to be wise stewards of our resources. This verse reminds us of the value of discipline and forethought in our financial decisions, helping us avoid unnecessary debt and financial struggles.
2 Corinthians 9:7
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
This verse focuses on the act of giving and the attitude we should have when giving. It emphasizes the importance of voluntary and joyful giving rather than being driven by external pressure or obligation.
As Christians, we are called to be generous and give willingly from the abundance that God has blessed us with. This verse encourages an attitude of gratitude and joy in our financial stewardship.
Luke 14:28
“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?”
This verse highlights the importance of careful financial planning and consideration before committing to significant endeavors. It encourages individuals to assess their resources and obligations before embarking on new projects.
As Christians, we are called to exercise wisdom and prudence in our financial decisions. This verse reminds us to consider the financial implications and potential risks before undertaking major financial commitments.
Psalm 15:5
“Who lends money to the poor without interest; who does not accept a bribe against the innocent. Whoever does these things will never be shaken.”
This verse underscores the importance of lending to the needy without expecting anything in return. It emphasizes the principles of compassion, fairness, and justice in financial dealings.
As Christians, we are called to extend a helping hand to those in need, especially without exploiting their vulnerability. This verse encourages us to approach lending and financial assistance with a spirit of generosity and integrity.
Proverbs 10:4
“Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.”
This verse draws a connection between diligence and financial well-being. It highlights the consequences of laziness and the benefits of hard work and perseverance.
As Christians, we are called to be diligent and hardworking in all areas of our lives, including our finances. This verse reminds us of the importance of adopting a strong work ethic and disciplined approach to financial stewardship.
Luke 6:34-35
“And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.”
This passage encourages believers to lend and give without expecting anything in return. It challenges the prevailing mindset of lending only to receive repayment, emphasizing a different standard of generosity and love.
As Christians, we are called to demonstrate radical love and generosity, even to those who may not appreciate or reciprocate our kindness. This verse calls us to go beyond societal norms and reflect the character of God in our financial interactions.
Deuteronomy 15:1-2
“At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts. This is how it is to be done: Every creditor shall cancel any loan they have made to a fellow Israelite. They shall not require payment from anyone among their own people because the LORD’s time for canceling debts has been proclaimed.”
This passage speaks to the principle of debt cancellation, which was practiced in the context of the Israelites. It promotes the idea of debt relief and release, particularly among fellow believers.
While the specific practice of debt cancellation after seven years may not apply directly to modern financial systems, this verse highlights the importance of compassion and fairness in our financial dealings. It challenges us to consider ways in which we can alleviate the burden of debt for others.
James 4:13-17
“Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’ As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.”
This passage serves as a reminder of the uncertainty and brevity of life. It challenges the mindset of self-reliance and arrogance in financial planning and highlights the importance of surrendering to God’s will.
As Christians, we are called to humbly acknowledge our dependence on God and seek His guidance in our financial decisions. This verse reminds us to prioritize the pursuit of righteousness and to align our plans with the will of God.
Proverbs 11:15
“Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer, but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe.”
This verse underscores the potential dangers of providing financial guarantees for unfamiliar individuals or situations. It warns against the risks associated with acting as a surety without fully understanding the implications.
As Christians, we are called to exercise discernment and caution in our financial dealings. This verse encourages us to prudently evaluate the potential risks and consider the long-term consequences before committing to be liable for another person’s debt.
Proverbs 22:26
“Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts.”
This verse offers advice to avoid becoming entangled in the financial responsibilities of others by providing guarantees or security for their debts.
While there may be instances where assisting others financially is appropriate, this verse advocates for caution and discernment. It reminds us to prioritize financial wisdom and avoid unnecessary risks that may jeopardize our own financial well-being.
Matthew 6:24
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
This verse highlights the conflict between serving God and being driven by a pursuit of wealth. It emphasizes the need to prioritize our devotion and allegiance to God above material possessions.
As Christians, we are called to recognize the proper place of money and possessions in our lives. This verse challenges us to evaluate our priorities and ensure that our financial decisions align with our commitment to serving God.
Ezekiel 18:13
“He lends at interest and takes a profit. Will such a man live? He will not! Because he has done all these detestable things, he is to be put to death; his blood will be on his own head.”
This verse addresses the specific act of lending money with interest, particularly when it exploits the vulnerable and perpetuates injustice. It highlights the severe consequences associated with engaging in unethical financial practices.
As Christians, we are called to uphold principles of justice and fairness in our financial dealings. This verse challenges us to evaluate our lending practices and ensure that our actions align with God’s standards of righteousness.
Matthew 6:19-21
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
This passage reminds us to prioritize eternal values over earthly possessions. It challenges the mindset of accumulating material wealth which is vulnerable to loss and decay, and instead encourages an investment in spiritual treasures that have eternal significance.
As Christians, we are called to place our ultimate trust and hope in God rather than in the accumulation of wealth. This verse calls us to evaluate our attitudes towards money and possessions, ensuring that our hearts are anchored in what truly matters.