What Does the Bible Say About Debt — Meaning Explained
The Bible warns that 'the borrower is servant to the lender' and encourages believers to avoid unnecessary debt while being faithful to repay what they owe.
The Bible warns that 'the borrower is servant to the lender' and encourages believers to avoid unnecessary debt while being faithful to repay what they owe.
"The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender." — Proverbs 22:7 (KJV)
What "What Does the Bible Say About Debt?" Actually Means
Scripture doesn't prohibit borrowing outright but warns strongly about its dangers. Proverbs 22:7 states: 'The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.' Romans 13:8 instructs: 'Owe no man any thing, but to love one another.' The Mosaic Law included provisions for lending without interest to fellow Israelites (Deuteronomy 23:19-20) and forgiving debts every seven years (Deuteronomy 15:1-2). Psalm 37:21 says 'The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again'—honoring debts is a moral obligation. Jesus used debt metaphors to teach about forgiveness (Matthew 18:21-35). Practical wisdom includes: live within your means, avoid cosigning (Proverbs 22:26-27), save for the future (Proverbs 21:20), and be content with what you have (Hebrews 13:5). Financial freedom enables greater generosity and reduces anxiety.
Anchor Verses (KJV)
Proverbs 22:7
"The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender."
Romans 13:8
"Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law."
Psalm 37:21
"The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth."
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