Christian Debt Reduction A Biblical Approach
A very fast growing sector in financial circles is Christian debt reduction programs. Churches all across the country are pulling together in an effort to help the people in their congregations get out of debt. This problem, which is affecting millions of people today, is one that could use some Biblical examples and solutions. Churches are taking a stand against debt and holding seminars, workshops, and entire message series to help with reducing the debt within their community. A Christian debt reduction program, then, should be seen through Biblical eyes.
Money is a big subject in the Bible. In fact, there are more than 800 different Scriptures that focus on money alone. It is important to first not that money is not an evil thing. Many people will begin to think that God is against money. That is not true. However, what is true is that the love of money is the root of all evil. It is the thing that changes our thinking and can make people do some strange things. Like buying too much that we go into debt.
Christian debt reduction programs focus not on just what the Bible says about debt. And, the Bible says a lot about debt. For instance, Proverbs 37:21 says, “The wicked borrows and does not pay back, but the righteous is gracious and giving.” What that is saying is that going into debt causes some people to amass so much that they can not pay it back. But, the person who is generous actually helps their financial situation. When taken in that light, you have the basis for a perfect debt reduction plan.
Being a giver is very hard for people to do. But, one of the first things that will be talked about in any debt reduction assistance from the church will be to start giving. One of the Scriptures those talks about this is Proverbs 3:9-10. It states, “Honor the Lord from your wealth and from the first of all your produce; so your barns will be filled with plenty and your vats will overflow with new wine.” Giving is the catalyst to financial freedom. But, when you are just barely keeping your head above water, how can you give?
The Bible teaches that you give the first ten percent of all your earnings. This means that when you receive your check, you immediately take out ten percent for giving. Then you give this ten percent. The key is to do it with confidence, trust, and joy. Without that you are just following steps. Christian debt reduction is not steps. It is a lifestyle. Once you begin giving – with joy – then you will notice that you make your bills easier, you do not need all the shiny new stuff, and you start lowering debt.
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