What Does the Bible Say About Borrowing Money?

Written By Mary Carter

Mary holds a degree in theology and she has a deep understanding of biblical texts. She works as an elementary school teacher in Alabama.

So, you’re wondering what the Bible has to say about borrowing money? Well, in a nutshell, it’s got some wisdom to share on this topic. Whether you’re a seasoned Bible reader or just curious, stick around because you’re about to get some valuable insights.

Curious about what God’s word has to say about borrowing money? Dive in, and let’s explore the biblical perspective on this crucial topic. It might just change the way you view your finances.

What Does the Bible Say About Borrowing Money?

When it comes to borrowing money, the Bible offers some timeless principles that are still relevant today. Let’s take a closer look at what God’s view on borrowing is all about.

Bible Verses about Borrowing Money

  1. Proverbs 22:7 – “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.” This verse reminds us that when we borrow, we become beholden to the lender, potentially limiting our freedom
  1. Romans 13:8 – “Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.” This verse encourages us to avoid accumulating debt whenever possible and prioritize love for one another instead.
  1. Deuteronomy 28:12 – “The Lord will open to you his good treasury, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season and to bless all the work of your hands. And you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow.” This verse suggests that God’s blessings can free us from the need to borrow.
  1. Psalm 37:21 – “The wicked borrows but does not pay back, but the righteous is generous and gives.” Borrowing is permissible, but it emphasizes the importance of repaying our debts.
  1. Matthew 5:42 – “Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.” Jesus teaches us to be generous, even with our resources, but this doesn’t mean recklessly taking on debt.
  1. Proverbs 21:5 – “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” This verse advises us to carefully plan our finances to avoid hasty borrowing.
  1. Ecclesiastes 5:5 – “It is better not to vow than to vow and not pay.” Be cautious with the promises and commitments you make, especially when it involves borrowing.
  1. Hebrews 13:5 – “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.'” Contentment can help us make wiser financial choices.
  1. 1 Timothy 6:10 – “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.” Be cautious of borrowing driven by the love of money.
  1. James 4:13-15 – “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit’… Instead, you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.'” Acknowledge God’s sovereignty in your financial decisions.
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Remember, the Bible doesn’t explicitly forbid borrowing money, but it does provide guidance on responsible financial stewardship. Stay tuned for more insights on this important topic.