Apostle Paul Preaching on the Ruins by Giovanni Paolo Pannini
The Bible commentator, Matthew Henry, sums it succinctly in his commentary of the book of Romans 13:8, “Christians must avoid useless expense.” It is not a good testimony to others if Christians are in debt. More so from useless debt. Debt that is acquired impulsively or based on envy or greed.
Mr. Henry also warns against speculative expenses, it is a surprise that he would comment as such. Remember the financial bubble of 2008? It happened because of speculative investments that went sour. He also brings to our attention rash financial engagements that would easily entangle us in a web of misery if we are not careful.
Owe nothing to anyone–except for your obligation to love one another. Now that is a good word to wake up to. The Bible says “the borrower is a slave to the lender” (Proverbs 22:7). I’ve seen how people, Christians even, who make careless expenses and then wind up in dodging collectors and letters of demands. Some have even come to the point of resigning from their jobs just to elude collection and prosecution.
This should not be the life of a follower of Jesus. This is not God’s will for anyone of us. Trust should be the center point of our faith. Trust that God will supply all our needs. Trust that God wants the best for us. It is such a blessing to wake up without debt. With the economy of this world we need to all the more to put our complete faith in God.
