Monthly Archives: January 2017

Fetters of Debt

My debt used to feel so oppressive and I let it dictate so much of what I did and how I felt. Previously, I believed debt was extremely evil, a tool Satan used to control me. As a Christian, I felt I had a duty to get rid of it quickly.

This perspective caused me no end of stress and worry, which also affected those around me and caused friction in my marriage. I now see the Bible offering a different perspective, one that is more freeing.

Debt is like slavery in that it limits options, is very difficult to overcome, and feels quite oppressive, thus it makes a great analogy. Slavery was legal in New Testament times and was addressed in the epistles. It may be surprising that Christian slaves were told to serve even oppressive masters well.

“Slaves, in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh.” (1 Peter 2:18, NIV)

This is not what I would expect to be told if I were in an oppressive situation! Yet Peter makes it clear that oppressive circumstances do not excuse bad behavior. Rather, we are blessed if we do good despite harsh circumstances.

“For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God….To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps….But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.” (1 Peter 2:19, 21, 3:14, NIV)

Peter says there is a blessing in these humbling circumstances, and I believe we can apply this to being in debt as well. I want to qualify all this before continuing, though. The New Testament writers did tell slaves to gain their freedom if they could:

“Were you a slave when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you—although if you can gain your freedom, do so.” (1 Corinthians 7:21, NIV)

And Paul also makes it clear to not let yourself be enslaved:

“You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of human beings.” (1 Corinthians 7:23, NIV)

This definitely applies to debt, we should avoid getting into it and do what we can to get out of it. However, having gotten yourself into an unfriendly situation, there is no need to go crazy trying to free yourself from it. “Do not be anxious about anything” (Phil 4:6).

For Christians, there is freedom. The circumstance of debt is humbling, and we should respond to it obediently and with joy, the way the New Testament writers instructed us.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.” (James 1:2, NIV)

Trials bring us closer to God because they force us to rely on his strength rather than ours. A slave who fights or rebels against a harsh master does so in their own strength and gives up an opportunity to see God work in their life, and any victory will bring pride in oneself.

But a slave who is obedient, refusing to give into anger, resentment or worry, this one is forced to cry out to God for strength. In submission they are able to see God do the work for any relief that comes, and in humility and sacrifice will identify with Christ’s journey to the cross. For a Christian who desires to draw near to their Savior, such a trying circumstance leads to this unexplainable joy.

This is a challenging perspective to grasp, but one every Christian should spend time considering.

Regarding debt, I have given up worrying over it. I do my best to make good decisions, but I trust that the circumstance is well within God’s powerful and merciful hands. When it seems insurmountable, I cry out to God and feel joy! Because the only way I get through it is with God near me, something I long for, and I know he is near me in this. I do not pinch every penny or track every expense or refuse myself every small pleasure. Yet, time and time again, I have seen my finances go further than they should, and I continue to tithe and be generous with my tips and find other ways to give to others.

While I am still trapped in the fetters of debt, I am free and full of joy in the Lord, and I feel closer to God than ever before in my life.

Blessings! – Shamar Covenant