Biblical Answer

Can I Still be a Good Christian When I'm in Debt?

The Bible teaches us that we are to render all due obedience to the civil authorities, which includes paying our debts (Romans 13:1-7). However, the concept of debt is more complex than just owing money to someone. In the context of Christianity, debt refers to the sense of indebtedness we feel towards God, our spiritual creditor, for the salvation we have received through Christ (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). As bondservants of the Lord Jesus, we are not our own, but belong to Him, and our lives are to be lived in obedience to Him (Romans 6:13).

When we consider debt in the context of our financial obligations, we must remember that God is not asking us to pay off our debts in our own strength. Rather, He is asking us to trust in His provision and to seek His guidance in managing our finances. In fact, the Bible teaches us that it is God's desire for us to be debt-free, not because He is concerned about our financial stability, but because He wants us to be free to serve Him without the burden of debt (Matthew 6:24). As Christians, we are called to live lives that reflect our dependence on God and our trust in His sovereignty over our finances.

So, can you still be a good Christian when you're in debt? The answer is yes, but it requires a shift in perspective. Rather than viewing debt as a burden, we must see it as an opportunity to trust in God's provision and to seek His guidance in our financial decisions. By acknowledging our debt to God and seeking His help in paying it off, we can live lives that are characterized by faith, trust, and obedience to Him. As Paul wrote, "You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies" (1 Corinthians 6:20). By living in obedience to God's principles, we can find freedom from debt and live lives that are pleasing to Him.