February 22nd, 2026
Scripture – “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender. Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you.”
Proverbs 22:7, 26-27 NIV
Observation – God tells us to be very careful with debt. The Bible doesn’t say it is a sin to borrow money but it does warn us that when we get a loan we become a slave to the lender. Psalm 37:21 says “The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously;”
While it isn’t a sin to borrow it is a sin to not repay. The consequences of “lacking the means to pay” is we lose everything we have, we harm others and it is wicked in God’s sight.
Application – In biblical times, failing to repay a debt could lead to severe consequences, including the loss of property, freedom, or even the selling of oneself or family members into servitude (2 Kings 4:1; Matthew 18:25). While modern laws such as bankruptcy and negotiated settlements have softened those outcomes, the moral principle remains the same: God expects His people to honor their obligations.
Debt itself is not called sin in Scripture, but presuming upon future failure is. Borrowing with the mindset that you can simply walk away if things go poorly reveals a heart that is not fully committed to integrity or to loving your neighbor. Psalm 37:21 reminds us, “The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously.”
As Christians, we should enter financial commitments carefully, prayerfully, and honestly, with a sincere intention to repay what we owe. Even when circumstances become difficult, our goal should be to act with integrity, communicate openly, and seek solutions that honor both God and those we have borrowed from.
Prayer – Lord Jesus, please don’t let our eyes wander to the ends of the earth seeking wealth at the expense of our character and our relationship with you. Amen.
What are you doing? Do it better 