Should Christians Use A Debt Settlement Program?
A Testimony of Faith and Financial Stewardship
Have you ever wondered if using a debt settlement program is something a Christian should do? Is it Godly to settle debt for less than what you owe, especially when you were the one who accrued it?
This is a question my friend and her husband wrestled with, and I want to share their story because I know other Christian families may be struggling with the same question. (P.S. If you scroll to the very bottom you can watch the video about it)
When Debt Becomes a Spiritual Question
My friend and her husband had accumulated debt and were trying to figure out how to move forward. But their struggle wasn't just financial. They also questioned whether using a debt settlement program was the right thing to do as Christians.
After all, if you borrow money, shouldn't you pay back every penny?
Her husband had reservations about moving forward with a program that could reduce what they owed. They wanted to make sure they weren't making a decision that went against their faith or their responsibility to repay their debts. So, she sought spiritual counsel.
What Does Luke 16 Teach Us About Stewardship?
During that conversation, the Parable of the Shrewd Manager in Luke 16 came up.
In this passage, Jesus tells the story of a manager who faces losing his position and acts strategically to prepare for his future. Jesus highlights the manager's shrewdness, challenging His listeners to think carefully about how they use the resources available to them.
Luke 16:8 (NIV) says, “For the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of the light.”
Now while this verse has spiritual context as well, it can be used to highlight how we are to deal with the world. In Matthew 10:16 we are called to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves." There's a theme here.
The Luke passage is not a direct endorsement of debt settlement. However, it raises an important question about stewardship: Are we using the resources and opportunities available to us wisely?
My friend came away from that counsel believing that using a legitimate debt settlement program could be a responsible step toward getting their finances back on track. Eventually, her husband agreed, and they decided to move forward.
The Result: A Path Toward Becoming Debt Free
Through the program, they were able to have 55% of their debt eliminated through settlement, and they are now on a path to becoming debt free in five years!
Think about what that could mean for their family. Instead of remaining overwhelmed by debt, they now have a plan and a timeline to work toward financial freedom. Of course, debt settlement is not the right solution for everyone. It can affect your credit and involve fees, but you're able to get a free consultation to look over your current situation to determine if it's a right fit for you. It's important to understand the risks and alternatives before enrolling in a program. But their testimony reminds us that asking for help and exploring available resources doesn't automatically mean we're acting outside of God's will.
My friend's story is a reminder that faith and financial responsibility can work together. We don't have to ignore the resources available to us simply because we're Christians. We do need to approach our decisions with honesty, wisdom, and a clear understanding of the consequences.
If debt has become a burden in your household, don't be afraid to ask questions and explore your options.
At Top Financial Agency, I believe financial stewardship starts with understanding where you are today so you can make better decisions about where you're going tomorrow.
Want to take the first step toward getting your finances in order? Start with our 60 Second Family Protection Checkup and begin identifying areas of your financial plan that may need attention.
Watch the video
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