Few people get into unmanageable debt because they cannot add or subtract, which demonstrates financial indebtedness is more than an economic problem. Below are five spiritual sins that can lead a person into the sin of unmanageable debt. Recognition and avoidance of these serve as a formidable protection against unmanageable debt. Rectifying them also serves as a path out of financial bondage.
Greed – wanting more than God has provided you. “But immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints; for this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God” (Eph 5:3, 5).
Impatience – believing that God is not providing for your needs or wants fast enough. “I wait for the Lord, my soul does wait, And in His word do I hope” (Ps 130:5).
Pride – believing you deserve more than God has provided. “When pride comes, then comes dishonor. But with the humble is wisdom.” “Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before stumbling” (Prov 11:2; 16:8).
Lack of trust – believing God does not really love and care about you. “Casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you” (1 Pet 5:7).
Presuming on the grace of God – lack of planning for challenging times. “The ants are not a strong people, But they prepare their food in the summer” (Prov 30:25).
- There are exceptions, such as the loss of a seemingly stable job or sudden catastrophic health problems, which are beyond most people’s capacity to prepare for.
Discontentment – tying your joy and happiness to things rather than God. “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, ‘I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you”‘ (Heb 13:5).