Money matters can be stressful, especially when it comes to borrowing. But fear not, as the Bible offers guidance on financial matters. Whether you’re seeking advice on lending or borrowing, there are verses that shed light on this topic. Let’s explore what the scriptures have to say about handling money matters responsibly.
Also Read: Bible Verses About God Forgiving Us
Bible Verses About Borrowing Money
Proverbs 22:7
“The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.”
This verse highlights the potential bondage that can come from borrowing money. It reminds us of the importance of being wise in our financial decisions and avoiding unnecessary debt. Being a borrower puts us in a position of dependency on the lender, which can limit our freedom and choices.
Psalms 37:21
“The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously.”
This verse contrasts the actions of the wicked and the righteous when it comes to borrowing. It emphasizes the importance of integrity and responsibility in financial matters. The righteous are called to be generous and faithful in repaying their debts, while the wicked disregard their obligations.
Romans 13:8
“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.”
Here, the Apostle Paul encourages believers to be diligent in paying off their debts. However, he also reminds them that the only debt that should remain outstanding is the debt of love towards others. This verse teaches us the importance of prioritizing love and relationships over material possessions.
Proverbs 17:18
“One who has no sense shakes hands in pledge and puts up security for a neighbor.”
This verse cautions against becoming a guarantor for someone else’s debt. It warns that without prudence and discernment, we may find ourselves in financial trouble by assuming another person’s debt. It reminds us to be wise and cautious when considering such arrangements.
Matthew 5:42
“Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”
Jesus teaches us about generosity and compassion in this verse. He encourages us to be willing to lend to those in need without expecting anything in return. This verse reminds us of our responsibility to help others, especially when they are facing financial difficulties.
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.”
God promises His blessings to the Israelites in this verse if they are obedient to Him. One aspect of His blessings is that they will become lenders and not borrowers. This verse speaks to the importance of obedience to God’s commands and the potential for financial prosperity that can come as a result.
Proverbs 3:27
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due when it is in your power to act.”
This verse emphasizes our responsibility to fulfill our financial obligations. It encourages us not to withhold what is rightfully owed to others. It reminds us to act with integrity, honesty, and fairness in all financial matters.
Psalms 112:5
“Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice.”
This verse highlights the blessings that come to those who are generous and lend freely. It underscores the importance of conducting our financial affairs with justice and integrity. When we are generous with others, we reflect God’s heart of generosity and open ourselves up to His blessings.
Hebrews 13:5
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'”
This verse reminds us to prioritize contentment and trust in God over our desire for wealth and material possessions. It reassures us that God will always be with us and meet our needs. When we focus on Him rather than money, we can find true satisfaction and peace.
Proverbs 19:17
“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.”
This verse encourages us to be kind and generous to those in need. When we lend to the poor, we are ultimately lending to the Lord Himself. It reminds us that our acts of kindness and compassion will be rewarded by God, both in this life and in eternity.
Luke 6:34
“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.”
Jesus challenges us to have a different perspective when it comes to lending. He encourages us not to lend with the expectation of receiving something in return. True generosity and selflessness are displayed when we give without expecting repayment, just as God has poured out His grace upon us.
Proverbs 28:8
“Whoever increases wealth by taking interest or profit from the poor amasses it for another, who will be kind to the poor.”
This verse warns against exploiting the poor for personal gain. It reminds us that ill-gotten wealth will not last and may end up benefiting someone else who will show kindness to the poor. It serves as a reminder for us to treat others, especially those in vulnerable financial situations, with fairness and compassion.
Deuteronomy 23:19
“Do not charge a fellow Israelite interest, whether on money or food or anything else that may earn interest.”
God’s law to the Israelites prohibited them from charging interest on loans given to their fellow brethren. This command reflects God’s concern for fairness and justice in financial transactions. It highlights the importance of prioritizing relationships and community over personal gain.
Matthew 6:34
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
This verse reminds us to trust God and not to worry about the future. It encourages us to focus on living one day at a time, relying on God’s provision rather than obsessing over accumulating wealth or borrowing excessively. It reassures us that God will take care of our needs as we seek His kingdom first.
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 entering into agreements that we cannot fulfill. It cautions us against becoming liable for a debt that we cannot repay, as it may lead to dire consequences and loss. It stresses the importance of exercising wisdom and prudence in financial decisions.
Romans 13:7
“Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.”
Paul instructs believers to fulfill their obligations and responsibilities. This includes paying taxes, debts, and giving respect and honor where it is due. We are called to be law-abiding citizens and to act with integrity and fairness in all financial matters.
Proverbs 6:1-5
“My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have shaken hands in pledge for a stranger, you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth. So do this, my son, to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor’s hands: Go—to the point of exhaustion—and give your neighbor no rest! Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids. Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler.”
This passage warns of the dangers of becoming a surety for another person’s debt. It encourages immediate action to free oneself from the obligations and potential harm it may cause. It serves as a reminder to think carefully and seek wisdom in financial agreements with others.
Proverbs 21:17
“Whoever loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and olive oil will never be rich.”
This verse cautions against pursuing pleasure and material possessions to the point of neglecting financial wisdom. It warns that such extravagance and excess can lead to poverty and financial instability. It reminds us of the importance of balance and moderation in our desires and pursuits.
Proverbs 13:22
“A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of wise financial planning and stewardship. It encourages us to think beyond our own lifetime and consider the future needs of our descendants. It also highlights the transitory nature of wealth and the ultimate reward that awaits the righteous.
1 Timothy 5:8
“Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”
Paul instructs believers in their duty to provide for their family’s needs. This includes financial provision and ensuring the welfare of their household. He emphasizes the importance of fulfilling these responsibilities as a demonstration of faith and love.
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.”
This verse underscores the importance of treating the poor with kindness and compassion. It reminds us that our actions towards those in need reflect our attitude towards God. When we show kindness to the needy, we demonstrate honor and respect for our Creator.
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 advises caution when it comes to guaranteeing the debts of others. It warns of the potential consequences and risks that come with assuming financial responsibility for someone who is not well-known or trustworthy. It encourages us to prioritize our own financial well-being and exercise wisdom in such situations.
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
James reminds us of the importance of seeking wisdom from God in all areas of our lives, including financial decisions. He assures us that God is willing to provide us with wisdom if we ask for it. This verse encourages us to rely on God’s guidance and discernment in our borrowing and lending practices.
Proverbs 22:26
“Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts.”
This verse reiterates the caution against becoming surety for another person’s debts. It advises against making personal guarantees or putting oneself in a position of potential financial risk. It serves as a reminder to think carefully and responsibly before assuming such responsibilities.
Proverbs 22:16
“One who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and one who gives gifts to the rich—both come to poverty.”
This verse warns against exploiting the poor or using unethical means to accumulate wealth. It teaches that such actions ultimately lead to poverty and downfall. It encourages us to treat others with fairness and integrity, regardless of their financial status.
Proverbs 28:19
“Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits will have plenty of poverty.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of hard work and diligence in achieving financial well-being. It highlights the consequences of pursuing frivolous and unproductive pursuits, which lead to poverty. It serves as a reminder to focus on meaningful and fruitful work that can provide for our needs and blessings for others.
What Does the Bible Say About Borrowing Money?
In the Bible, there are several verses and principles that guide us on the topic of borrowing money. One of the key principles is the idea of being cautious and wise when it comes to borrowing. Proverbs 22:7 states that “the borrower is the slave of the lender,” emphasizing the potential bondage and burden that borrowing can bring. This verse encourages us to consider the long-term implications of taking on debt and to be thoughtful about our financial decisions.
Additionally, Romans 13:8 advises us to “owe no one anything, except to love each other,” which suggests that we should strive to live within our means and avoid unnecessary debt. This doesn’t mean that borrowing money is always wrong, but it does encourage us to be responsible and deliberate in our financial dealings.
As believers, we are also called to trust in God’s provision and to seek His wisdom in our financial decisions. This includes seeking counsel and considering the potential consequences of borrowing money. When we borrow, we should do so with the intention of fulfilling our obligations and being good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us.
Ultimately, the principles in the Bible teach us to approach borrowing with caution, wisdom, and a mindset of responsibility, while also trusting in God’s guidance and provision in our financial matters.