What Does the Bible Teach about Debt?

As a collection agency Edmonton, collection agency Calgary and collection agency GTA we recognize that the vast majority of consumers we inevitably end up dealing with are good people, with good intentions that have now simply arrived at the tipping point of having to either try to continue to rob Peter to pay Paul or, in the alternative, to make some hard choices in monthly budgeting in order to honour their outstanding financial obligations.

Not only has Canada become a debtor nation, but most Canadians are drowning in debt. Our day–to–day dependence on debt begs the question: What does the Bible say about debt?

First, the Bible warns that “the borrower is servant to the lender” (Proverbs 22:7). As such, we are warned against the folly of being excessively indebted to those who may be unforgiving in their demands for repayment. We ought to take seriously the wisdom of the proverb “Do not be a man who strikes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you” (Proverbs 22:26–27).

Furthermore, Scripture condemns the failure to repay our debts as wickedness. In the words of the psalmist, “the wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously” (Psalm 37:21). Likewise, the apostle Paul urges believers to diligently repay their debts (Romans 13:8).

Finally, whether in the theocracy of ancient Israel or the democracy of modern day Canada, God’s people are called to be good stewards of the resources with which he has entrusted them. If we lend we should do so with kindness, and if we borrow we should do so with prudence.

Whether secular or spiritual it is difficult to argue against the wisdom above from the Holy Scripture.