Biblical Answer

Can I really go bankrupt and still be a good Christian?

The Reality of Bankruptcy as a Christian

Bankruptcy is a complex issue, and as a Christian, it is essential to approach it with a clear understanding of our responsibilities to God and others. While bankruptcy may be a legal option, it is not necessarily a moral one. In the Bible, Paul writes, "Render all due obedience to the civil authorities. They in their way are servants of God" (Romans 13:1). This means that we must respect the laws of our land, including those related to bankruptcy. However, the Bible also teaches that our true wealth and security come from our relationship with God, not from our material possessions.

The Temptation of Worldly Wealth

As Christians, we are often tempted to seek financial security and stability through worldly means, such as accumulating wealth and possessions. However, this can lead to a form of "moral anemia," where we prioritize our own interests over our relationship with God. The Bible warns against the dangers of chasing riches, saying, "Chasing riches would be a futile pursuit, and your wealth would be your downfall" (Proverbs 23:5). Instead, we are called to live a life of simplicity, trusting in God's provision and guidance. This means being willing to surrender our own understanding and desires, even if it means facing financial challenges.

The Call to Surrender

Ultimately, as Christians, we are called to surrender our lives to God, including our financial situations. This means being willing to give up our own understanding of ourselves and our circumstances, and trusting in God's sovereignty and provision. As the Bible says, "We are altogether incapable of discharging the debt we owe to God, unless we are released by this remission [through Christ's satisfaction of justice]" (Romans 3:24-25). This is not a call to financial irresponsibility, but rather a call to trust in God's goodness and provision, even in the midst of financial challenges. By surrendering our lives to God, we can find true stability and security, not in our material possessions, but in our relationship with Him.