For Those Suffering with Debt

Scripture:
He who is surety for a stranger will suffer,
But one who hates being surety is secure.
Proverbs 11:15

Observation: Throughout the Proverbs we see advice against all kinds of debt. This warning and hatred of debt extends beyond a personal debt, but even to the manner in which one aids others. In this case, even assisting someone else in obtaining a loan is warned against as something that will bring suffering on ourselves. It is better to hate and avoid debt than to help a stranger in getting what they need through a loan.

Application: I recall I time I was in debt, and it created challenges for ever doing anything. It was great to hear from someone just yesterday about how his is continuing his efforts to get out of debt using the principles of FPU.

I do think about the people we taught and how much they are likely struggling. We had been talking about how to dig out of debt, and ... the biggest financial crisis of our lifetimes arrived, and we are still very early days into it. I know some have lost jobs, and I know others still will as this goes on. My heart breaks for them.

It is clear that debt prevents us from serving the Lord. It is a roadblock to generosity, and it is a stumbling block for the attention of our hearts and minds.

As I struggle into this uncertain time, repeating again that I do not want this to come upon us, I also desire to be able to manage my life in a manner that serves the Lord, and not debt. I mourn a future life I envisioned and that I'm sure will now never come to pass, but I also know the Lord is with me and my family. I will avoid the suffering of debt.

Prayer: Lord, again I say it, I do not wish to walk through this time ahead. I would pray that you remove the hardships for all mankind, and usher in instead a time of your blessing upon this land. May hearts turn to you to thanksgiving and praise, rather than turn to despair and sorrow and anxiety and depression. And please be with the people of our class as they find themselves in terrible financial stress just when they were understanding the impacts. Please be with them, their families, and their lives. In Jesus' name, amen.