The Bible is full of wise counsel and advice regarding borrowing money. Various passages throughout the Bible discuss the dangers and implications of taking on debt, while other verses provide insight into strategies that can help protect from potential financial hardship. For those considering taking out a loan or engaging in other types of borrowing, it’s important to understand what the Bible says about money. This article will explore the various passages that discuss borrowing money to gain a better understanding of this topic.
What Does The Bible Say About Borrowing Money?
Borrowing money is an integral part of economic life. Whether it’s a loan taken out to purchase a house, car, or other items, many people need to borrow money occasionally. So what does the Bible say about borrowing money?
Borrowing Money
The Bible encourages us not to owe people anything.
Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.
Romans 13:8
But if we need to borrow money, it tells us that we need to repay the loan.
The wicked borrows and does not repay,
Psalm 37:21
But the righteous shows mercy and gives.
The Bible teaches that borrowing and lending can be done in a way that honors God and benefits both parties involved. For example, Proverbs 22:7 says…
The rich rules over the poor,
Proverbs 22:7
And the borrower is servant to the lender.
This verse cautions against too much debt or using loans for unnecessary things. It also speaks to how important it is to be responsible with borrowed funds by paying off debt as soon as possible. You do not want to put yourself into bondage, including financial, when Christ died to set you free.
Borrowing money can be a stressful decision and sometimes a necessary one. According to the Bible, there are both advantages and disadvantages when it comes to borrowing money. Knowing what the Bible says about this important financial decision is key in helping you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
The Bible stresses the importance of being responsible with our finances and avoiding debt whenever possible. It also warns against becoming too dependent or desperate for money while recognizing that sometimes financial difficulties can’t be avoided. Ultimately, the Bible encourages us to believe that God will provide what we need if we trust Him.
Old Testament Perspective: Leviticus
The Old Testament perspective on borrowing money can be found in the Book of Leviticus. This book contains some of the earliest laws given by God to Moses and the Israelites, which reflect His will and purpose for their lives. According to these laws, borrowed money should not accrue interest, as it is considered a form of exploitation that takes advantage of those in need. The Bible further states that creditors should not take security from borrowers and must forgive debts after seven years. These regulations indicate that lending should be done with mercy and compassion rather than as a means to exploit others or gain financially at their expense. Additionally, those who borrow should do so with humility and understanding that they may have to pay back more than originally loaned due to interest or other factors.
Borrowing in Proverbs
Borrowing money is something people have done for centuries, and the Bible has plenty to say about it. Proverbs, one of the books of the Old Testament in the Christian Bible, is a great source of wisdom on this topic.
Proverbs 22:7 says, “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is a slave to the lender.” This proverb warns against debt that may lead to slavery or servitude. The idea is that if you can’t pay back what you borrow, someone else will own your obligations instead. Another common proverb from Proverbs 19:17 reads…
He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord,
Proverbs 19:17
And He will pay back what he has given.
This verse encourages generosity in giving when possible rather than borrowing money from those who are less fortunate than us.
Jesus’ Teachings on Borrowing
The teachings of Jesus guide Christians on various topics, including borrowing money. In the Bible, Jesus makes it clear that there must be caution when entering into any financial agreement. He cautions against taking loans or borrowing from others to live beyond one’s means. Although he does not explicitly prohibit borrowing, he strongly warns against letting debt become a burden and encourages believers to consider their options carefully before entering into any loan agreement.
Jesus stresses that individuals should not put themselves in a vulnerable financial situation by taking out a loan they can’t afford or using borrowed funds for frivolous purchases. Rather, He urges believers to rely on God’s provision and trust that God will meet all their needs if they are faithful and act responsibly with their finances.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bible offers much advice and guidance on borrowing money. Scripture reminds us that money is not a substitute for God and should be used wisely. We should strive to be faithful stewards of our resources, honoring God with our finances by avoiding debt when possible and being diligent in repayment if we must borrow. If we are in a position to lend money, we should not charge interest or require full repayment from those who cannot afford it.
