Borrow Money with the Right Intentions

It is not wrong to borrow money, but it is wrong to take on debt without the ability to pay it back or with the intention of never repaying what is owed. What is meant in Romans 13:8 when it says not to owe anything to anyone?

“Obey the laws, then, for two reasons: first, to keep from being punished, and second, just because you know you should. Pay your taxes too, for these same two reasons. For government workers need to be paid so that they can keep on doing God’s work, serving you. Pay everyone whatever he ought to have: pay your taxes and import duties gladly, obey those over you, and give honor and respect to all those to whom it is due. Pay all your debts except the debt of love for others – never finish paying that! For if you love them, you will be obeying all of God’s laws, fulfilling all his requirements” (Romans 13:5-8; TLB).

These verses simply mean that you should obey the laws, pay your taxes and repay all of your debts. That just makes good sense. But more than repaying your debts at some future date, you are to pay your creditors on time with interest owed. A person who borrows but does not repay is called wicked, meaning wrong, sinful, immoral, evil and depraved.

Psalm 37:21

“The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously.”

Your thoughts on this subject? Your comments appreciated!

Content © Rich Brott, 2011

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