Can Debt Buy Contentment?

How content ARE you? Do you think some new clothes, furniture, vacation, car or house would make things better? Think again.

Debt is a deceiver. It enslaves, robs joy, and deprives borrowers of many opportunities. It sets households back financially, adds unnecessary stress, affects sleep and health and causes marriage strife.

Sadly, it prevents people from seeing God work in miraculous ways.

So why do people give in to it?

They falsely believe they’ll find contentment in what debt can buy:  They fall for the lie that more, better, faster, newer will bring them happiness, status, acceptance or success. But, in the end, they discover it’s just a lie.

Paul said he learned the secret of being content, whether facing plenty or hunger, abundance or need.

Like Paul, we must be willing to say “No” to things of this world and “Yes” to the things of God.   

He told Timothy that “…godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world.  But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.  But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. (1 Timothy 6:6-9)

So, is debt ever acceptable? Yes… the Bible doesn’t prohibit borrowing. But, it strongly warns of its dangers. Credit cards are fine when purchasing budgeted items. But, if they’re not in your budget for the month – forget it! If you carry a credit card…here is my one rule:  always pay off your balance each month to avoid penalties and interest.

Take to heart what the writer of Hebrews said: “Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)

If your credit card debt is overwhelming, get in touch with Christian Credit Counselors. They share our same values and are committed to helping individuals break free from the burden of credit card debt. You can get started with a free debt analysis today.