what does the bible say about debt

The Bible teaches that debt should be avoided because "the borrower is slave to the lender" (Proverbs 22:7). It encourages paying off debts promptly (2 Kings 4:7) and warns against becoming guarantors for others' debts (Proverbs 22:26). At the same time, the Bible emphasizes forgiveness of debts as a metaphor for forgiving others, as in the Lord’s Prayer: "Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matthew 6:12). It also highlights that no debt should remain outstanding except the ongoing debt of love to one another (Romans 13:8). Overall, debt is often portrayed as a form of financial bondage that compromises freedom and the ability to serve God and others (Matthew 6:24). While borrowing is not explicitly condemned as sin, the Bible cautions about the dangers and encourages wise stewardship and repayment. Forgiveness of debts is a strong biblical theme, reflecting God’s grace and our need to forgive others (Matthew 18:27-34). The Bible also condemns exploitative lending practices but acknowledges that fair interest lending was practiced under certain conditions in ancient Israel (Leviticus 25:35-38; Proverbs 28:8). In summary, the Bible advises to avoid unnecessary debt, fulfill obligations responsibly, forgive debts as an act of grace, and prioritize love above financial obligations.