Lending money can be tricky, and the Bible provides advice on how to approach it responsibly. It encourages generosity without expecting anything in return and warns against exploiting others. Biblical teachings on loaning money can help us handle these situations with wisdom and kindness.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Self-Love
What Does The Bible Say About Loaning Money
Proverbs 22:7
“The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.”
This verse emphasizes the potential consequences of borrowing money. It highlights that borrowing can result in a loss of freedom and independence, as one becomes obligated to the lender.
It encourages us to exercise wisdom and caution when considering taking on debt, reminding us that financial decisions have long-term implications.
Proverbs 19:17
“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.”
This verse reminds us that lending money to those in need is not just an act of charity but also an act of service to God.
It encourages us to have a heart of generosity towards the poor, knowing that our kindness and compassion are seen and rewarded by the Lord.
Psalm 37:21
“The wicked borrows but does not pay back, but the righteous is generous and gives.”
This verse distinguishes between the behavior of the wicked and the righteous when it comes to borrowing and lending.
It highlights the importance of integrity in financial transactions and encourages us to be honest and responsible in repaying our debts.
Romans 13:8
“Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.”
This verse urges us to avoid getting into debt whenever possible. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing love and mutual care over financial obligations.
While it may not always be feasible to completely avoid debt, the verse encourages us to be mindful of our financial responsibilities and to approach lending and borrowing with wisdom and love.
Proverbs 28:8
“Whoever multiplies his wealth by interest and profit gathers it for him who is generous to the poor.”
This verse challenges the idea of accumulating wealth through exploitative means, such as charging excessive interest rates.
It encourages us instead to consider the needs of the poor, recognizing that true wealth comes from generosity and compassion.
Psalm 112:5
“It is well with the man who deals generously and lends; who conducts his affairs with justice.”
This verse highlights the benefits of acting with generosity and fairness in financial dealings.
It suggests that those who are willing to lend and show kindness to others will experience blessings in their own lives as well.
Luke 6:35
“But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great.”
This verse challenges us to extend our generosity even to those who may not deserve it. It encourages us to lend without expecting anything in return, trusting in the promise of a reward from God.
It reminds us that our actions should be driven by love and a desire to bless others, rather than by self-interest or the expectation of repayment.
Matthew 5:42
“Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.”
This verse teaches us to be open-handed and willing to help those in need. It calls us to be kind and compassionate, even towards those who ask us for assistance.
It reminds us that our possessions are not truly ours but are resources that can be used to bless and uplift others.
Psalm 15:5
“Who does not put out his money at interest and does not take a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things shall never be moved.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of fair financial practices and integrity.
It encourages us to refrain from charging interest on loans and to resist any form of corruption or injustice that may harm others.
Deuteronomy 15:7-8
“If among you, one of your brothers should become poor, in any of your towns within your land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart or shut your hand against your poor brother, but you shall open your hand to him and lend him sufficient for his need, whatever it may be.”
This verse urges us to have a compassionate and generous attitude towards those who are in need.
It reminds us that God expects us to be willing to lend a helping hand to our fellow brothers and sisters, meeting their needs as much as we are able.
Proverbs 21:17
“Whoever loves pleasure will be a poor man; he who loves wine and oil will not be rich.”
This verse warns against the pursuit of excessive pleasure and luxury.
It reminds us that indulging in extravagance and unnecessary expenses can lead to financial difficulties and hinder our ability to lend and help others.
Psalm 37:26
“He is ever lending generously, and his children become a blessing.”
This verse praises the generous person who is willing to lend freely.
It suggests that those who practice generosity in lending not only bless others but also experience blessings in their own lives, extending even to future generations.
Proverbs 17:18
“One who lacks sense gives a pledge and puts up security in the presence of his neighbor.”
This verse warns against making careless financial commitments or guarantees without considering the potential consequences.
It encourages us to exercise wisdom and prudence in our financial dealings, avoiding hasty decisions that could lead to unnecessary borrowing and debt.
Proverbs 22:26-27
“Be not one of those who give pledges, who put up security for debts. If you have nothing with which to pay, why should your bed be taken from under you?”
This verse cautions against becoming a guarantor for someone else’s debt, particularly if we are not in a position to fulfill those obligations.
It highlights the importance of considering the potential consequences before assuming financial responsibilities that could jeopardize our own well-being.
Proverbs 11:15
“Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer harm, but he who hates striking hands in pledge is secure.”
This verse advises against acting as a surety for someone we do not know well or trust.
It reminds us that taking on someone else’s financial obligations can carry risks and potential harm, urging us to be cautious and discerning in such matters.
Proverbs 6:1-2
“My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, have given your pledge for a stranger, if you are snared in the words of your mouth, caught in the words of your mouth”
This verse warns of the potential pitfalls and entanglements that can result from being a guarantor for someone else’s debt.
It encourages us to think carefully before making such commitments and to consider the potential consequences of our words and actions.
Romans 13:7
“Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of fulfilling our financial obligations and honoring our commitments.
It encourages us to be responsible citizens and individuals who hold integrity in all our financial transactions.
Proverbs 3:27-28
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give it’—when you have it with you.”
This verse exhorts us to act with promptness and fairness when fulfilling our financial responsibilities.
It reminds us not to delay or withhold what is rightfully due, but rather to act with honesty and generosity towards others.
1 Timothy 6:10
“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.”
This verse warns against the love and pursuit of money as it can lead to moral and spiritual pitfalls.
It reminds us to maintain a healthy perspective on wealth and material possessions, recognizing that our priorities should be rooted in faith and trust in God, rather than in the accumulation of wealth.
James 2:15-16
“If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled,’ without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?”
This verse challenges us to go beyond mere words and empty gestures when encountering someone in need.
It reminds us that lending money or offering assistance to those struggling financially is an essential expression of compassion and love towards our fellow brothers and sisters.
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.”
This verse highlights the importance of treating others with respect and compassion, particularly those who are in need.
It encourages us to be generous towards the poor, recognizing that our actions towards others have spiritual implications.
2 Corinthians 9:7
“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
This verse reminds us that giving, including lending money, should come from a place of genuine willingness and joy.
It encourages us to approach acts of generosity with a cheerful heart, knowing that God values the attitude and sincerity behind our giving.
Luke 14:14
“And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”
This verse assures us that God sees and rewards acts of kindness and generosity towards others, even when repayment is not possible.
It encourages us to have an eternal perspective, knowing that our acts of lending and helping others will be remembered and rewarded by God in the future.
Matthew 6:12
“And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”
This verse is part of the Lord’s Prayer, where Jesus teaches us to ask for forgiveness of our debts or sins.
It serves as a reminder of the importance of forgiveness and the need to extend grace and mercy towards others, including those who may owe us money.