Debt is something most people deal with at some point in life.
Whether it’s a mortgage, student loans, credit cards, or money borrowed from a friend, owing someone can feel like a heavy burden.
But what does the Bible say about debt?
Does God expect people to pay back everything they owe, or is there grace for those who struggle?
Scripture has a lot to say about money, responsibility, and integrity when it comes to paying debts.
Let’s explore what the Bible teaches and how to handle financial obligations in a way that honors God.
The Bible Encourages Paying Back What You Owe
The Bible makes it clear that people should pay their debts.
Romans 13:7-8 says:
Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another.
This passage teaches two important principles.
First, paying what you owe—whether it’s money or respect—is the right thing to do.
Second, the only ongoing “debt” that should remain is the obligation to love others.
Proverbs 22:7 gives another strong reminder about the burden of debt.
The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.
This verse shows how debt can create a situation where one person has control over another.
Being in debt can limit freedom, increase stress, and put people in difficult financial positions.
Because of this, the Bible encourages believers to be responsible and repay what they owe.
God Values Honesty and Integrity in Finances
One of the biggest themes in the Bible is integrity.
God calls His people to be honest, responsible, and faithful in all areas of life—including finances.
Psalm 37:21 warns:
The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously.
This verse draws a sharp contrast between the wicked and the righteous.
Those who take on debt but refuse to repay it are acting dishonestly.
In contrast, righteous people are generous and trustworthy.
Ecclesiastes 5:5 reinforces this idea.
It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.
If a person borrows money, they are making a vow to repay it.
God takes promises seriously, and failing to follow through on financial commitments is a form of dishonesty.
Is Debt a Sin?
The Bible never says that debt itself is a sin.
However, it does warn against the dangers of borrowing money irresponsibly.
Proverbs 6:1-5 advises against taking on financial obligations too quickly.
If you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have shaken hands in pledge for a stranger, you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth.
This passage encourages people to be cautious before entering financial agreements.
Debt can be a trap, leading to stress, worry, and even broken relationships.
While borrowing money isn’t sinful, it can lead to unwise decisions that harm both the borrower and the lender.
The Danger of Living Beyond Your Means
One reason people fall into deep debt is spending beyond their income.
The world promotes a lifestyle of wanting more—bigger houses, nicer cars, and the latest gadgets.
But the Bible warns against a materialistic mindset.
Luke 12:15 contains a powerful message from Jesus.
Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”
Money and material things do not bring lasting happiness.
When people chase after luxuries they can’t afford, they often end up trapped in debt.
1 Timothy 6:6-8 gives a better perspective.
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.
Contentment is the key to financial peace.
Instead of chasing debt to afford more, the Bible teaches that true fulfillment comes from trusting in God and being satisfied with what He provides.
What If You Can’t Pay Your Debt?
Life doesn’t always go as planned.
Sometimes, people take on debt with good intentions but later find themselves unable to pay it back.
What does the Bible say about these situations?
First, the Bible encourages people to seek help and be honest about their struggles.
Proverbs 3:27 says:
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.
If someone is struggling with debt, they should not ignore the problem.
Communicating with lenders, asking for guidance, and seeking wisdom from trusted mentors can help find a solution.
Second, the Bible reminds believers that God is their provider.
Philippians 4:19 gives a powerful promise.
And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
This does not mean that God will erase all financial problems instantly.
But it does mean that He cares about every need and will provide a way forward.
The Power of Hard Work and Wise Stewardship
The Bible teaches that hard work and careful financial management are key to avoiding unnecessary debt.
Proverbs 21:5 gives wise financial advice.
The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.
This means that thoughtful, responsible planning leads to financial success.
In contrast, impulsive decisions can lead to financial disaster.
2 Thessalonians 3:10 reinforces the value of hard work.
The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.
God calls people to be diligent, not lazy.
Earning money honestly and managing it wisely can prevent debt from becoming a burden.
Giving While in Debt: What Does the Bible Say?
Some people wonder if they should continue giving to the church or charity while they are in debt.
The Bible encourages generosity but also calls for wisdom.
2 Corinthians 9:7 says:
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Giving should never be done out of pressure or guilt.
If someone is struggling financially, they should focus on meeting their basic needs and paying back what they owe.
However, generosity is still important.
Even if someone can’t give large amounts, they can still give in small ways—helping a neighbor, volunteering, or offering encouragement.
God honors a giving heart, no matter the size of the gift.
God’s Grace and Debt Forgiveness
The Bible also speaks about grace and forgiveness when it comes to debts.
In the Old Testament, God established the Year of Jubilee.
Every 50 years, debts were canceled, and people who had sold themselves into servitude were set free.
Leviticus 25:10 describes this event.
Consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants.
This showed that God values mercy and second chances.
In the New Testament, Jesus used debt as a metaphor for sin.
Matthew 6:12 says:
And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
Just as God forgives sin, believers should also show grace to those who owe them.
While financial debts should be repaid when possible, Christians are also called to be compassionate and understanding toward those who struggle.
Steps to Becoming Debt-Free
For those in debt, the Bible offers principles that can help in becoming financially free.
Trusting God and seeking wisdom is the first step.
James 1:5 encourages believers to ask for wisdom.
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
Creating a financial plan is another key step.
Setting a budget, cutting unnecessary spending, and making a plan to pay off debt can make a big difference.
Proverbs 27:23 advises:
Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds.
This means managing resources well and being aware of financial responsibilities.
Final Thoughts
The Bible teaches that paying debts is an important responsibility, but it also reminds believers to be wise, content, and generous.
Debt is not necessarily a sin, but it can become a burden if handled poorly.
God calls His people to live with integrity, work hard, and trust Him for their needs.
For those struggling with debt, there is hope.
God provides wisdom, strength, and opportunities to overcome financial challenges.
By following biblical principles, anyone can move toward financial freedom and live a life that honors God.