“Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. Let no debt remain outstanding.”Romans 13:7–8 (NIV)
One of God’s goals is for you to be debt-free. It’s absolutely possible if you are disciplined. If you’ve never experienced being debt-free, you have no idea the freedom it brings when you don’t owe anything to anyone.
Here’s why it’s so important: If God called you to do something right now, you might not be able to do it because of financial bondage.
Romans 13:8 says, “Let no debt remain outstanding” (NIV). This means that if you’re only paying the minimum on your credit cards, you’re not fully repaying your debts, and God cannot bless that.
To break free, you need to set up a repayment plan. Yes, it will be hard—that’s why so many people are in debt. The fact is that most people lack the discipline to follow God’s financial principles. But here’s the order to follow:
First, give 10% to God.
Second, save 10% for your future.
Finally, live on 80% and set up a repayment plan.
You may wonder, “Should I really tithe and save before paying off debts?” Yes! Why? Because you need God’s help to get out of debt.
If you wait until you’ve paid everything off to start saving or tithing, you never will. Your income will always be outpaced by your desires.
If you can’t live on 80%, you’re living beyond your means. Pay God first, pay yourself second, and commit to repaying your debts.
When times get tough, stick to your budget and focus on your goal of financial freedom. God will honor your commitment and guide you toward the peace of being debt-free.
Imagine the freedom of saying, “I don’t owe anything to anyone.” Imagine the financial freedom of being able to immediately act when God presents new opportunities in your life. Let today be the day you commit to this journey. With God’s help, it’s not only possible—it’s his plan for you.
For more Daily Hope with Rick Warren, please visit pastorrick.com!
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