I will answer the question in two words, “don’t borrow”. When it comes to financial matters the Christian should always live responsibly. A Christian must take care of his own financial needs and also live in a responsible way concerning those under his or her care. Let’s look at some Christian principles concerning money matters in the following texts.
2Thessalonians 3:10 “if anyone will not work, neither let him eat.” (NAS) (the Lord does not advocate a free ride)
1 Tim 5:8 “If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” (NIV)
I John 3:17-18 “If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.” (NIV) (provided that the first scripture above has been followed)
A friend of mine is known for this advice to his fellow Christians… “get out of debt, and stay out of debt.” This is good advice. Primarily that we do not bringing reproach upon the Lord’s cause by any irresponsible actions on our part. But practically because borrowing incurs costs based upon the interest one pays. There are of course certain loans that most people will take on in their life, those being a home and possibly a car, however, even these are best paid down as quickly as possible, and any loans that are taken out should be well within one’s means to repay. Extensive debt, especially with high interest, revolving credit will prevent financial growth.
If we turn to Jesus words we find this advice.
Matthew 13:22 “The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful.” (NIV)
Matthew 6:19-21 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (NIV)
The treasure determines where your heart is and not so much the other way around. If your time and energy is spent amassing earthly treasure it will draw your heart earth bound like a magnet. The treasure that we desire is Knowledge and Experience and Ability in order to lead men back to God through Jesus Christ.
Two summarizing thoughts.
1) Live within your means. Deny yourself instant gratification that traps so many in our day. This doesn’t mean that we can’t live well and be financially secure, there is no particular honor in poverty, but it means don’t get trapped under the burden of debt. It is too difficult to grow financially when you are paying debt interest on whatever you buy.
2) Don’t focus your energy on material wealth that will pass away. Focus your heart on growing a Christ-like character that will bring true riches and honor before God. The fact is, if the Lord wants you to prosper financially then it will be so, and if not, there is little you can do to make it otherwise.
Matt 6:33 “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
Proverbs 13:7 “One man considers himself rich, yet has nothing [to keep permanently]; another man considers himself poor, yet has great [and indestructible] riches.” (Amplified Bible)
