Proverbs 22:7 The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.
We live in an economy that is built on credit. Facilities and institutions thrive on the fact that there would always be a large segment of the population in need of financial assistance, and so a stupendous conglomerate of financial institutions have been established to address this ongoing issue. Now while it is true that such institutions operating in their legitimate sphere, can serve a very good purpose, yet we must be aware that it s not the will of God that as a nation, or as individuals, we become hooked on the habit of borrowing. As a general rule of thumb, the bible discourages the concept of financial indebtedness but rather encourages individuals and nations to aspire to a noble independence. As with all other instructions that God has given to the human family, this one is also given with our best interest in mind.
God in His omniscience foresaw the evils that always attend those who become mired in debt, and thus the experiences of His people in ages past were faithfully chronicled for the benefit of all present and future generations. A striking example of the ills that befall debtors is written in the book of Nehemiah, and it reads:
Nehemiah 5:1 And there was a great cry of the people and of their wives against their brethren the Jews. 2 For there were that said, We, our sons, and our daughters, are many: therefore we take up corn for them, that we may eat, and live. 3 Some also there were that said, We have mortgaged our lands, vineyards, and houses, that we might buy corn, because of the dearth. (famine). 4 There were also that said, We have borrowed money for the king's tribute, and that upon our lands and vineyards. 5 Yet now our flesh is as the flesh of our brethren, our children as their children: and, lo, we bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be servants, and some of our daughters are brought unto bondage already: neither is it in our power to redeem them; for other men have our lands and vineyards. 6 And I was very angry when I heard their cry and these words.
As individuals we have a responsibility to try and resolve our debts, wherever applicable and whenever possible. Sometimes it seems as if we're permanently trapped in the vicious cycle, but the Lord has promised grace to help us in time of need. Not only should we seek for a resolution to our debts, but we should also be willing to espouse the godly principles written in the Bible for our benefit. If we do, there are certain promises and instructions that God has given us to enable us in achieving the desired end. Here are two principled instructions followed by two promises. Let's read:
Romans 13:7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. 8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
And here are the two promises:
Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
We sincerely hope and trust that this segment would be of great benefit to all people, and remember that the Lord encourages everyone to avoid the snare of debt, whenever and wherever possible. God bless!