LESSON 20
FOUNDATIONAL TRUTH
DEBT In Romans, Paul encourages us to “owe no one anything, except to love each other” (13:8). One reason the Bible warns against debt is that it makes us a slave to the lender (Prov. 22:7). The more debt we owe, the less freedom we have with our money, which hinders every part of our lives including our thoughts and emotions. While debt is discouraged, the borrowing of money is not explicitly forbidden. The first part of Psalm 37:21 says, “The wicked borrows but does not pay back. ” As long as we are handling money wisely and able to pay all debt payments on time, we can take on the burden of financial debt if absolutely necessary. The second part of Psalm 37:21 says, “but the righteous is generous and gives.” Once we are out of debt, our fi- nances (and our hearts) are freed up so that we can become generous in our giving, “for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Cor. 9:7). 55
5. In what way are you being constrained in your ability to serve or advance the kingdom of God because of debt? What is the first step you will take to resolve this problem? For more resources, see grace.church/ramsey.
DAY 3
The Generosity of Nehemiah (Nehemiah 5:14–19)
1. How was Nehemiah’s generosity demonstrated in the 12 years that he gov- erned Judah? (See vv. 14–18.)
2. How did this compare with his predecessors’ generosity? (See v. 15.)
55 “What does the Bible Say about Going into Debt?” Got Questions: Your Questions, Biblical Answers. March 2025. https://www.gotquestions.org/money-debt.html
Nehemiah 5:1–6:19 | 203
Made with FlippingBook Digital Proposal Creator