Debt…Good or Bad?

You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of human beings (1 Corinthians 7:23)

Jesus wants us to be free. He wants us to be free from sin. Free from grudges, free from guilt.  Maybe this is why He talked a lot about loans and indebtedness. 

He knows that debt holds us back. It is a weight around our necks. It keeps us in jobs we hate and makes it harder for us to make good long-term decisions.

When you know Jesus, you are already blessed beyond all measure, but it can be hard to see these blessings when we carry excessive financial debt.

The world’s voice tells you that debt is good. “Go ahead and get it now and pay for it later. Why should you wait? You have worked hard and deserve instant gratification.”  

But you are not of this world. You were once a slave to sin. But through Jesus‘s sacrifice, you are now free. Now that you are free from sin, be on guard and do not become a slave to man. 

Sure, some debt can be good and reasonable, such as the debt for your home. Often you are better off purchasing your home than renting. But what should you do if you are considering taking on other debt?

First, pray to discern God’s will for you. As you pray and listen for the answers, consider asking these questions: 

Will this debt help me further my mission while on earth? Is it necessary? Is this debt for an investment or to fund a desire? Will I grow spiritually if I wait and purchase the item later when I have the funds?

If you do not know the answers to those questions, perhaps you should pause until you have more clarity.

What Jesus really wants is our heart. Our checkbooks reflect our hearts. Do not become a slave to this world. Jesus cares about how we spend money, so spend it to gain freedom.

Lord Jesus, you care about me and how I spend the money you’ve entrusted to me while on earth. Help me discern when to take on debt and when to wait. You paid the ultimate price for my sins. Thank you for giving me ultimate freedom.