Introduction
The Bible does not say that using debt is a sin, but it does discourage it. Debt is money or possessions which one person is obligated to pay to another. Debt includes money owed to banks, friends, relatives, credit card companies, and finance companies.

What does Scripture teach about debt in general?
- Debt is discouraged
- Debt is considered a type of slavery (Proverbs 22:7)
- Debt was a curse for disobedience (Deut. 28:15, 43-44)
- Freedom from debt was a reward for obedience (Deut, 28:1-2, 12)
- Debt presumes upon the future (James 4:13-15)
- Christians must repay what is borrowed (Proverbs 3:27-28)

What are some factors that lead to debt?
- Lack of knowledge: Most people have not been trained to handle money God's way (to be faithful stewards)
- Lack of planning and discipline: Many people spend impulsively because they have no written plan or budget to ensure that spending does not exceed income.
- Indulgences: Some people spend in an attempt to satisfy fleshly desires.
- Circumstances: Sometimes people use debt when they experience unexpected emergencies, such as an illness or loss of job.