“The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous shows mercy and gives.” – Psalm 37:21
The Nature of Borrowing
In our lives, borrowing can be a necessary financial decision, whether it be for a home, an education, or something else. However, the Bible provides guidelines for how we handle borrowing. As we examine the nature of borrowing, we recognize that it is not merely the act of taking but also the responsibility of returning what we owe. We should strive to borrow only what we can responsibly repay and honor our commitments to our lenders. By understanding this principle, we can cultivate a responsible attitude towards our financial obligations and learn the importance of integrity in all our dealings.
Psalm 37:21
“The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous shows mercy and gives.” – Psalm 37:21
Proverbs 22:7
“The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.” – Proverbs 22:7
Romans 13:7
“Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due.” – Romans 13:7
Proverbs 3:27
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.” – Proverbs 3:27
Ecclesiastes 5:5
“It is better that you should not vow than that you should vow and not pay.” – Ecclesiastes 5:5
Lending with Kindness
Lending is a practice that can build bridges in our relationships and assist those in need when done with kindness. We are encouraged in the Bible to lend without expecting anything in return. By being generous lenders, we not only help others, but we also demonstrate the love and grace of Christ in our actions. This gives us an opportunity to reflect our faith in how we treat our fellow human beings and how we handle our financial resources.
Luke 6:34-35
“And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return.” – Luke 6:34-35
Deuteronomy 15:7-8
“If there is among you a poor man of your brethren, within any of the gates in your land which the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart nor shut your hand from your poor brother, but you shall open your hand wide to him and willingly lend him sufficient for his need, whatever he needs.” – Deuteronomy 15:7-8
Proverbs 11:25
“The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.” – Proverbs 11:25
Proverbs 19:17
“He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord, and He will pay back what he has given.” – Proverbs 19:17
Matthew 5:42
“Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away.” – Matthew 5:42
Interest and Usury
The issue of interest and usury has prompted many discussions among believers. The Bible warns against taking advantage of others through excessive interest rates. It’s essential for us to cultivate fairness in our financial dealings, avoiding practices that could harm others. We can reflect God’s love and fairness by treating others justly and kindly in our lending practices, ensuring that our actions align with our faith and values.
Exodus 22:25
“If you lend money to any of My people who are poor among you, you shall not be like a moneylender to him; you shall not charge him interest.” – Exodus 22:25
Leviticus 25:36-37
“Do not take usury or interest from him, but fear your God, that your brother may live with you. You shall not lend him your money for usury, nor lend him your food at a profit.” – Leviticus 25:36-37
Ezekiel 18:8
“He shall not lend at usury nor take any increase. He shall execute judgment and walk in My statutes. He shall not defile himself among his people.” – Ezekiel 18:8
Ezekiel 18:13
“If he has lent at usury or taken increase, shall he then live? He shall not live! If he has done any of these abominations, he shall surely die; his blood shall be upon him.” – Ezekiel 18:13
Proverbs 28:8
“One who increases his possessions by usury and extortion gathers it for him who will pity the poor.” – Proverbs 28:8
The Importance of Honesty in Financial Matters
Honesty in our financial dealings is essential in maintaining our integrity as Christians. We must be truthful not only with ourselves but with others regarding our financial situations. By being honest, we build trust and create fruitful relationships, both personally and financially. Practicing honesty in our transactions inspires others and reflects our commitment to live life in alignment with God’s teachings.
Proverbs 11:1
“Dishonest scales are an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is His delight.” – Proverbs 11:1
Micah 6:11
“Shall I count pure those with the wicked scales, and with the bag of deceitful weights?” – Micah 6:11
Proverbs 20:10
“Diverse weights and diverse measures, they are both alike, an abomination to the Lord.” – Proverbs 20:10
Proverbs 20:23
“Unequal weights are an abomination to the Lord, and dishonest scales are not good.” – Proverbs 20:23
Luke 16:10
“He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much.” – Luke 16:10
The Blessing of Generosity
Living generously is a key aspect of a faithful Christian lifestyle. When we share our blessings, we embody the teachings of Christ. God promises to reward those who are generous with both earthly and heavenly rewards. As we give to others, we create a cycle of kindness and support within our communities, enriching the lives of both the giver and the recipient. In our showing of love and compassion, we reflect God’s grace.
2 Corinthians 9:6
“But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” – 2 Corinthians 9:6
Acts 20:35
“I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'” – Acts 20:35
Philippians 4:19
“And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
Proverbs 22:9
“He who has a generous eye will be blessed, for he gives of his bread to the poor.” – Proverbs 22:9
Luke 6:38
“Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.” – Luke 6:38
The Role of Faith in Financial Decisions
Faith plays a vital role in every aspect of our lives, including our finances. In making decisions about lending, borrowing, and investing, we must seek God’s guidance. By leaning on our faith and trusting God’s provision, we can find peace in our financial choices. When we invite God into our financial matters, we can experience a deeper sense of understanding and assurance that He is with us every step of the way, regardless of the challenges we may face.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Philippians 4:6-7
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Matthew 21:22
“And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.” – Matthew 21:22
1 Timothy 6:17
“Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy.” – 1 Timothy 6:17
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” – James 1:5
Final Thoughts
Exploring the topic of interest through the Bible provides us with valuable lessons on our financial dealings. Whether we are borrowing, lending, or investing, God’s Word guides us in making righteous decisions that reflect our faith. It’s a reminder to honor our agreements, be generous, and practice honesty in all circumstances. Generosity, fairness, and a heart aligned with God’s plans protect us from pitfalls, allowing us to thrive spiritually and financially. We have so much to gain when we invite God into every financial decision.
As we navigate the intricate dynamics of lending and borrowing, let us strive to align our actions with what honors God. Practicing love and kindness in our financial choices not only enriches our lives but also reflects our values as believers. If you’re interested in diving deeper into God’s guidance on finance, check out these articles on God’s Financial Provision and God’s Promises for Prosperity.
May God bless us as we pursue wisdom in our financial stewardship.