Biblical Answer

Debt and Bankruptcy: A Christian Perspective

As a Christian, it is essential to understand that bankruptcy is not always the answer to financial difficulties. While it may be a necessary option in certain circumstances, it is not a moral solution to debt. In fact, Jesus taught that we should not use bankruptcy as a means of avoiding personal responsibility (Matthew 5:37). Instead, we should strive to honor our debts and live within our means.

According to Proverbs 6:1-5, it is a failure of integrity to fail to pay debts that we have incurred. This passage teaches us that we should take responsibility for our financial obligations and work to pay them off, rather than seeking to have them cancelled. This is in line with the biblical principle of living a life of integrity and honesty. When we fail to pay our debts, we not only harm our own financial situation, but we also damage our relationships with others and with God.

In light of this, Christians should strive to live debt-free or at least work towards paying off their debts in a responsible manner. This may involve creating a budget, cutting expenses, and finding ways to increase income. It is also essential to be mindful of credit and debit card offers, and to pay bills on time. By living a life of financial responsibility, we can honor God and demonstrate our trust in Him to provide for our needs. As the Bible says, "Let your one continuing debt be the debt of love" (Romans 13:8). By prioritizing love and integrity in our financial decisions, we can live a life that reflects our Christian values.