Biblical Answer

The Burden of Debt: Finding Relief in Christ

When faced with debt, it's essential to recognize that God's forgiveness and our own responsibility intersect. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus teaches that forgiveness is a two-way street: we must forgive others as God has forgiven us, and we must also assume responsibility for our own debts. This means acknowledging the financial obligations we've incurred and taking steps to rectify the situation. While seeking help from others, such as a financial advisor or credit counselor, can be a wise decision, we must also be honest about our own financial situation and take responsibility for our choices.

The Limits of Human Help

While seeking help from others is a good idea, it's essential to recognize the limits of human assistance. No one can guarantee that we'll be able to pay off our debts, especially if we've accumulated significant amounts of debt. In such cases, we must be honest with ourselves and others about our financial situation and seek guidance from trusted advisors. We can also explore temporary solutions, such as debt consolidation or credit counseling, to help manage our debt. However, we must be cautious of relying too heavily on human solutions, as they may not provide the long-term relief we need.

Finding Relief in Christ

In times of financial struggle, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and hopeless. However, as Christians, we have a source of hope and relief that goes beyond human solutions. Jesus teaches us to live with a "continuing debt" of love, seeking to please God and obey the law of charity (Matthew 6:1-4). While this may not directly address our financial debts, it reminds us that our relationship with God is the foundation of our lives. By seeking God's guidance and forgiveness, we can find the strength and wisdom to navigate our financial challenges and live a life that reflects our values as Christians. As we seek to pay off our debts, let us not forget the debt of love that we owe to God, and seek to live a life that honors Him.