The Bible encourages responsible borrowing and prompt repayment, highlighting that "the borrower is a slave to the lender" (Proverbs 22:7) and that the wicked borrow without intending to repay (Psalm 37:21), while the righteous are generous. While not strictly forbidding debt, it strongly advises against excessive debt, viewing it as a burden, and emphasizes paying what is owed (Romans 13:8), except the debt of love, which should always be fulfilled.
The Bible is very clear that if someone goes into debt, they must be faithful to pay it. Because debts must be paid, other priorities must be put in secondary or tertiary positions. This is required, since, “The wicked borrows and does not repay, But the righteous shows mercy and gives” Psalm 37:21.
It doesn't say that it's a sin to borrow
While the Bible offers many warnings about the dangers of debt, it never says that you are out of God's will or violating one of God's commandments when you borrow. We can debate the wisdom of incurring debt under certain circumstances, but it's never a black-and-white issue.
Philippians 4:19: And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. Romans 13:8: Owe nothing to anyone—except for your obligation to love one another.
God's message on financial struggles emphasizes trusting Him for provision, seeking His kingdom first, avoiding debt, and practicing stewardship, with promises of support for the righteous while encouraging prudence, as seen in verses like Philippians 4:19 (God supplies needs), Matthew 6:33 (seek first God's kingdom), and Proverbs 22:7 (borrower is slave to lender).
5 Tips for Trusting God in Financial Difficulties
God is interested in every detail of your life–including your financial life. He wants you to pay off your debt, and he'll help you do it. You just have to ask.
Please assist us in getting out of debt, and we particularly ask today that You help us and all who are struggling with debt to grow in perseverance in prayer. Help us to devote ourselves more fully to You each day of our lives. Give us the grace to trust You in all things.
The Bible doesn't say debt is a sin or a result of disobedience. We assume it does, but not because it says it directly, but because of what we've heard or what we've interpreted from other scriptures we've read. Here are the Biblical references to debt and what they mean: Deuteronomy 15:1 - Debt is to be released.
Choose Your Debt Amount
There's no single #1 worst sin; it depends on the religious or moral framework, but pride is often called the root of all evil (Christianity/Islam), while the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit (unforgivable sin) is considered the gravest in the Bible. Other severe sins include child abuse (Catholicism) and sins that "cry to Heaven" (like shedding innocent blood or oppressing the poor).
Proverbs 22:7 says, “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.” If you owe someone money, they'll control your life until you pay it back.
Financial freedom means having enough to provide adequately for your household and to give generously and joyfully to God's work. God wants you to be financially free so you can put Him first in your life and be sensitive to His voice, ready to follow Him whenever -- and wherever -- He leads.
Six Steps on the Path to Overcoming Debt
If you don't pay, the collection agency can sue you to try to collect the debt. If successful, the court may grant them the authority to garnish your wages or bank account or place a lien on your property. You can defend yourself in a debt collection lawsuit or file bankruptcy to stop collection actions.
Proverbs 11:24 teaches a paradox about wealth: generosity leads to increase, while stinginess leads to poverty, even though it seems counterintuitive. It says a person who scatters or gives freely becomes richer, while someone who withholds more than is right (hoards) ends up in want or poverty. The core message is that true financial security and prosperity come from a generous spirit, not from selfishly holding onto resources.
It's a Spiritual Principle: We Reap What We Sow (Galatians 6:7) I've discovered the best way to deal with money is to give it away. This is a key factor in helping us to maintain a biblical focus on our finances. And we need to keep on giving, especially during challenging financial times.
Bills will probably be turned over to an independent collection agency. At that point, you will no longer be able to negotiate with the person or company you owe money to. Collection agencies can be aggressive, but you do have certain rights. Collection agencies can't use abusive language or threaten you with violence.
Bible Verses for Declaration: Deuteronomy 28:12 — “The Lord will open to you His good treasure, the heavens, to give rain to your land in its season and to bless all the work of your hand.” Psalm 37:21 — “The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous is generous and gives.” Romans 13:8 — “Owe no one anything ...
Dave Ramsey's 7 Baby Steps provide a debt-free journey by first saving a small emergency fund, then using the debt snowball to eliminate all debt (except the mortgage), building a full emergency fund, investing 15% for retirement, saving for college, paying off the home early, and finally building wealth and giving generously.
Because Jesus is generous, we want to follow in His ways to become more generous like He is. Seek God's guidance in your financial decisions. (Proverbs 3:5-6) You can pray for wisdom and discernment as you manage your money with God.