DEBT

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Debt

It’s a “Now” World

Why would I ever wait to have something until I can pay for it, when the store will give it to me now and let me pay later?  This is a question that many of us find our selves asking when it comes to things as little as clothing and as big as automobiles.  Oswald Chambers says that lust is “the belief that it is my right to have what I want when I want it.”[1] The world has made it so easy and so socially acceptable to just “put it on the card” and hope to pay for it later.  It’s funny how debt has a way of becoming unmanageable and if you’ve ever been there, you know how much stress comes with it.

Read Luke 12:15.

  • What is the cause of our blindness to debt? What is Jesus’ answer for us?

Read Proverbs 22:7.

  • What happens when we get ourselves into debt?

Setting Priorities

Haggai was a prophet. His book in the Bible was written around 520 B.C. and it speaks to the Jews in exile. The temple was in ruins and God is calling them home to rebuild it. The people offer some lame excuses for not responding, and God, through Haggai, tells them, “You have planted much, but harvested little. You eat, but never have enough. You drink, but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but are not warm. You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it. (Haggai 1:6)”

The building of the temple was a measurement of the people’s spiritual condition. They were blinded by their own wants. They had plenty, but they were blind. They spent far too much on themselves. Their priorities were off.

Read Haggai 1:1–6.

  • Verse 4 talks about “living in paneled houses.” Debt drives us to set the wrong priorities. Is it the best decision to go into debt to have a “paneled house”? What is a better priority?
  • In verse 5 he tells them to, “Consider your ways.” How could you reset your priorities to get out of debt completely?

The Challenge

Haggai’s questions in verse 6 in modern language ask: Are you eating more and able to buy less? Debt is a prison that is difficult from which to escape.

Dallas Willard wrote, “In our current world, a large part of the freedom that comes from frugality is freedom from the spiritual bondage caused by financial debt. This kind of debt is often incurred by buying things that are far from necessary, and its effect, when the amount is substantial, is to diminish our sense of worth, dim our hope for the future, and eliminate our sensitivity to the needs of others.”

The Apostle Paul agrees. He wrote in Romans 13:8, “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.”

Read Proverbs 3:5, 7.

  • Is it possible to live the life Christ called us to live when we’re strapped with debt?
  • What must we do to begin taking steps to get out of debt? What’s one step you could take today?
 

[1] Oswald and Bibby Chambers, The Complete Works of Oswald Chambers, Grand Rapids, Discovery House Publishers, 2000, Ebook edition.

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  • Conversation LeaderJosh (Social Media Pastor)

    Hey there, and welcome to The Conversation. The devotion to the left was written to help us grow after hearing the talk from this past weekend. Please take your time, really engage the content, and share your thoughts over here.

    556 days ago3 Replies

    • Nancy

      in reply to Josh (Social Media Pastor)

      would love to . Why is your music so loud have to plug ears. Why is it worldly like disco place, Where can you justify this in the Bible. Worship is to reverence the Lord not entertain the people

      553 days ago

    • Ann Sneddon

      in reply to Josh (Social Media Pastor)

      I would love an e-mail as a nudge to join the conversation

      553 days ago

    • Ann Sneddon

      in reply to Josh (Social Media Pastor)

      I loved the talk last week even though I felt God was talking to me about my spending, I sometimes spend what I don’t have. I love giving and my husband is always telling me we have to think of us too and I have gotten alot better but it is hard to do. So I am in constant pray about things like spending. So thanks for going over all aspects of spending saving and giving.

      553 days ago

  • Conversation LeaderMarijo (Care Ministries)

    The topic of finances and, specifically debt, can be so daunting and challenging. We definitely are in a society of wanting “stuff”….and wanting it now! The ease and curse of credit cards has created a sense of not having to wait, no need to budget, and encourages a lack of patience and self-control. Instant gratification and immediate results are somewhat of a standard these days. It takes incredible discipline to say “no” to our impulsive natures and set aside selfish desires or what we think we deserve or are entitled to have, especially if we don’t have the money to pay for them. Some of this can also be attributed to “keeping up with the Joneses”, having the latest and greatest, nice home, nice cars and our kids begging for designer clothes or gadgets so they can fit in with their peers. One time my son asked for something that I didn’t have the money for at the moment. He said, “Well, why don’t you go to that machine where you get money, and just take some out.” (the lovely ATM!)

    Yet, this goes even deeper to a heart issue; examining our priorities and what we really value in life. Are we willing to sacrifice material things today for contentment and peace of mind and not become a slave to debt to satisfy that instant want which is fleeting? You may have heard this before– you can see what a person values by looking at one’s checkbook. How revealing that can be! Causes us to think and consider – what am I pursuing? Are they the right things? Are they the right priorities? In Jeremiah 29, God instructs us to seek Him with all our heart. He provides for our needs and walks daily with us, but it requires us to wait on Him and trust Him…. even with our checkbook!

    556 days ago1 Reply

    • Alicia Baxendale

      in reply to Marijo (Care Ministries)

      Well said, I agree with you.

      553 days ago

  • Justin

    I’m always amazed at the way my mind & heart think about money. In those times when money starts to feel a bit tight, my first instinct is to say, “Wow, what if we cut back on the amount we give to God each month?” Cutting my data plan? No thanks. Eating out less? Nope. Lower the thermostat a bit? Not a chance! But my tithe? That might be an option.
    So far God has protected us from my human nature, and it’s been cool to see Him provide in times when we are forced to evaluate and then reevaluate our financial priorities. And the more we’ve seen him prove faithful, the easier it’s gotten to trust that His way is the best way.

    556 days ago1 Reply

    • Conversation LeaderJosh (Social Media Pastor)

      in reply to Justin

      That is so true Justin. Amanda and I are going on vacation in a few days and, as we were saving up the contestant temptation of giving less or going into debt make it hard to do it the right way. So far we are winning. I appreciate your insight.

      556 days ago

  • Conversation LeaderAdam (Student Ministries)

    This area of finances is one, quite frankly, I wouldn’t mind blazing right past and ignoring. But the more and more I spend time with God and the more I read His word, the more I am convicted that “money” is not just a spending/debt issue…it’s a trust issue. Do I really trust God with my money? Do I believe that everything comes from Him? Am I willing to be a good steward of what He has given me?

    What I have learned through experience (not just head knowledge) is that the way I spend my money directly influences my relationship with God. No wonder Jesus talked about it so much.

    556 days ago1 Reply

    • Debby

      in reply to Adam (Student Ministries)

      Thanks Adam!! Trust is exactly the correct word for me and something that I struggle with constantly! Trusting anyone with my money is difficult…sometimes I don’t even trust myself with it – ha! You calling it a trust issue definitely has hit home for me and will help direct my prayers.

      552 days ago

  • Ronald Ponkey

    I am not sure if I am shocked or amused at our current Political races….it is like watching little children in Kindergarten play or fight? The mud slinging is unbelievable! The lies, misinterpretations, the finger pointing,etc..and this is where our next President will come from????

    It is reassuring to know God is watching and ultimately He is in control…..meanwhile the birds continue to make their nest, squirrels continue to look for nuts/although they would have better luck in Washington, and other animals continue to enjoy each day….Do you think they know something that other people don’t realize..ha

    I am at Peace knowing God is in control and I am under his protection always….so let the political show go on and it will get better…much better…..but relax..GOD IS IN CONTROL

    555 days ago1 Reply

    • Conversation LeaderAdam (Student Ministries)

      in reply to Ronald Ponkey

      Agreed Ronald…God is indeed in control. What a comforting thought!

      554 days ago

  • Conversation Leadervolunteer

    I strongly believe we trip up with our finances because we don’t take time to assess our motives before we make purchases. Wanting in itself is not bad. In fact, wanting can be very healthy. It is our motives that determine the goodness or badness of our wants. Do I want – to fit in or impress someone? Do I want – to be better than someone else? Do I want – because what I have isn’t good enough? Do I want – to fill a void? Do I want – to satisfy an addiction? Sometimes our wants come from a deeper desire within us, a desire that has nothing to do with our financial status. Our wants can help us determine the condition of our hearts and the condition of our hearts will ultimately determine our actions.

    Why do you want?

    555 days ago2 Replies

    • Conversation LeaderAdam (Student Ministries)

      in reply to volunteer

      I think you hit on one of the foundational things when it comes to money. So many times our emotions can drive our spending. We are seeking comfort or approval, therefore we spend. Great thoughts!

      554 days ago

    • Ann Sneddon

      in reply to volunteer

      Soo true,, it is my wants that get me in trouble hands down, when i am down then i buy more. And I know these services really help me look to God first even when i keep making mistake after mistake. God is sooo good!!

      553 days ago

  • Gail Neal

    I’m reallizing what a poor concept of saving I’ve had throughout life. My parents worked hard and gave all they had for their familly. They saw saving as hoarding and unspeakably selfish.

    As an adult — unlike the ant — I saved nothing during good times, and was unprepared for the inevitable storm. I used to be the one who jumped in and helped everyone else, and now I can’t and that hurts. (Oops, that sounds like a pride thing.)

    Yes I give, yes I serve, but it seems I’ve ignored God’s Word about being responsible with his provision. I have dishonored Him in this area.

    I think I remember some guy saying failure isn’t final. I’m thankful for God’s forgiveness.

    555 days ago2 Replies

    • Conversation LeaderMarijo (Care Ministries)

      in reply to Gail Neal

      It’s all about growing in our walk, Gail! We are all a work in progress and don’t have it all together. That’s why we need Christ, others encouraging us along the way and these principles that Brad teaches each week to apply to our lives and start fresh today. And remembering….failure is never final!

      555 days ago

    • joan adis

      in reply to Gail Neal

      I understand completely how you feel, i also love Brads statement, so i can pick myself up and try again. i think of Dave Ramsey saying “is it a want or a need” great comment Gail

      553 days ago

  • Conversation LeaderMarijo (Care Ministries)

    As you reflect this week on the devotional and looking for ways to honor God and live financially free, we offer great support here at NorthRidge through a seminar called “Financial Peace University” as well as financial coaches who can meet with you individually to help you work on budgeting or answer questions you may have in regards to your finances. Contact Stewardship Ministry at 734.414.777 and they will be glad to assist you toward making some positive changes in this area….

    555 days ago1 Reply

    • Lori Madison

      in reply to Marijo (Care Ministries)

      Marijo, I love FPU! It has changed my life and my family’s financial picture. I enjoyed the class so much & we continue to reap the benefits of a solid financial plan. I’m so happy to be a part of a church that provides instructions for its members for greater growth in Christ. The course instilled values that will elevate us to new heights in Christ. I won’t say its been easy, but I will say the growth has made the pain worthwhile. We’re doing a new thing. We no longer lust after the possession of things and the accumulation of stuff. We still like stuff, but we’re now we’re able to see the greater good beyond the material possessions. We’re able to envision a life together with the right stuff that matters; togetherness, peace, love, joy. We have an understanding of prosperity and what that means in a biblical sense! We don’t feel like we’re bound up anymore. We see a light at the end of the tunnel, a lighted pathway leading out of the walls imprisonment. We’re experiencing a brand new freedom on many different fronts and it is totally awesome!!

      553 days ago

  • warren

    I was at a secular business seminar this afternoon and they asked 6 questions concerning personal relationships the first one was “How can we be closer?” , I thought what a great question to ask my wife and than found myself asking “God how can we be closer?. Any ideas out there as to how to be closer to God?

    555 days ago4 Replies

    • Conversation LeaderAdam (Student Ministries)

      in reply to warren

      Warren, what a great question to ask! One of the best ways I have been getting close with God is by reading the Bible. I know that sounds like an “old school” answer, but I have found no greater source of wisdom and comfort than God’s word.

      Another way could very well be attending church! Being around other like-minded people who want to grow closer to God like you!

      Hope that helps!

      554 days ago

    • warren

      in reply to warren

      I agree Adam that is the best way, and perhaps memorizing scripture. Are there any scripture that deal with a closer walk with God that come your mind. I have been reading the Psalms but I have not come up with that one verse or two that sink it teeth into the thought.

      554 days ago

    • Paula Williams

      in reply to warren

      I can honestly attest that reading and spending time in God’s word is the BEST and only true way to draw closer to HIM. He will provide the reading if you will ask Him and seek Him honestly. It may be a book He lays on your mind or scriptures. Start with a daily devotional. It is truly an AWESOME experience and once you experience it you will want to share it with everyone and you will want them to experience it as well.

      553 days ago

    • Conversation LeaderAdam (Student Ministries)

      in reply to warren

      Hey Warren, I know some of these may seem cliche, but here are some great verses that I often cling to:

      Psalm 23
      Proverbs 3:5-6
      Romans 8 (the whole chapter!)
      Ephesians 2: 1-10

      Those speak life into my soul and confirm what Jesus did for me on the cross and the fact that God is indeed greater than any circumstance life can throw at me.

      Hope that helps!

      552 days ago

  • Suzanne

    I know this devotion is really directed toward our finances and our view of money, however, it made me think of other wants vs. needs. How many of us are on our knees before God, tears in our eyes, pleading for something that we want (love, health, etc.) not truely knowing what God knows…What we need may be bery different than what we want…

    553 days ago1 Reply

    • leeann

      in reply to Suzanne

      Yes! What we want, in our limited view of the world and our insufficient understanding of God, can never be what we need–in His eyes, on His path for us. It is difficult to trust that He knows best, even though–intellectually–we KNOW that He does!

      553 days ago

  • Conversation LeaderMarijo (Care Ministries)

    So very true, Suzanne! Thanks for sharing that insight. I think the lines get very blurry when determining our needs from our wants. Or especially when we can’t get what we want! We need to always believe and trust that God sees the bigger picture and knows what is BEST for us. Sometimes we only know enough for that one next step…..as He provides. He promises to never leave us or forsake us and is growing us to depend on Him, not on our own strenght.

    553 days ago

  • Jim H

    The verse “Psalm 23:1″ comes to mind. In the King James it simply reads, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (in the NIV that last part is changed to “I lack nothing.”). I wanted to share a thought on the King James wording… “I shall not want.” I have been going to Financial Peace University at Northridge on Tuesday nights. Some of the strongest teachings Dave Ramsey has are about stopping the use of credit cards, buying cars with cash and not by loans. I realized this Tuesday that what a lot of what he is trying to teach people is to show folks things about MATERIALISM. I once had a very lucrative career as a contract field engineer for the telephone companies in the US. I traveled all over the country, where ever the work was, I was there for temporary assignments. I made close to 6 figures for income. I lacked nothing and could buy things I wanted any time. Then in 2002 the industry changed and that job vaporized almost overnight. I spent all of 2002 unemployed, drawing unemployment checks of $362 a week. I was used to bringing home $1,200 or more a week. In 2001 I made close to $85,000. In 2002 I existed on about $10,000 in unemployment. I made $7,000 in 2003, and then $4,000 in 2004. During all of this, no matter what difficulty came my way, God provided for me. It was an incredible learning experience. Yes it had its pains, and it has been hard times since that time. But what I have learned is… that the closer I draw to Jesus in my walk, the less I am addicted to the “STUFF” (material objects) of life. I desire to buy things less, the closer I walk with Jesus. My failures are my compulsion purchases. My successes are the joy drawn from knowing I am redeemed by the CReator of the Universe. “I shall not want” isn’t just about “I lack nothing” but it is a condition of life where you just cease to want, want, want STUFF and stamp your feet like a red-faced child. It is not healthy to spend more than you make. With Christmas coming, we face one of the most material seasons of the entire year. Another verse comes to mind, a very simple one. Only two words in this one… When the celebration of our Lord is so twisted with materialism that innocent people are trampled in front of a Wal-Mart… John 11:35… “Jesus wept.” I can fully see that this deeply lost, material world would cause our Lord to cry in compassion. He felt so strongly about it that he came here to live as one of us and to lay down his life on the cross for us, so that we could find the truth, and that truth would make us free. (John 8:32) When the Lord is truly your Shepherd, you truly won’t want. You will lack nothing, you will lose that addictive sense of materialism. Seek Him, He will guide your path.

    553 days ago3 Replies

    • Lori Madison

      in reply to Jim H

      Hi Jim, I enjoyed reading every word of your reply. Trusting in him for all that I need has been an eye opening experience. He has kept my family out of harm’s way throughout our poor financial planning and out lack of confidence in His will for our lives. I retired in 2009 and our family income was reduced by half, yet God provided. He provided the knowledge to look carefully at what we needed and what we wanted. He drew us in closer and pointed out the truth about this life and our purpose in it. I loved the quote from this week’s devotional from Dallas Willard, “In our current world, a large part of the freedom that comes from frugality is freedom from the spiritual bondage caused by financial debt. This kind of debt is often incurred by buying things that are far from necessary, and its effect, when the amount is substantial, is to diminish our sense of worth, dim our hope for the future, and eliminate our sensitivity to the needs of others.” This really hit home. It brings tears to my eyes when I think of how selfish I’ve been in the acquisition of stuff. I’m so thankful to God for opening my eyes and my heart. I’m thankful for your journey and I’m praying for you each step of the way!

      553 days ago

    • leeann

      in reply to Jim H

      Thanks for sharing your story—wow! And, putting the numbers in makes it much easier for people to understand and relate–regardless of what their own numbers are. A tremendous, life-changing, unexpected event brought you to the place where you were utterly dependent on God, and now you are in the best position ever. Thank you, Jesus!

      553 days ago

    • Conversation LeaderAdam (Student Ministries)

      in reply to Jim H

      Jim, I think you are right on…thanks so much for sharing your story and your thoughts!

      552 days ago

  • GARY COOPER

    this is the first time i looked at this , but i know it is going to be a blessing to me

    553 days ago1 Reply

    • Conversation LeaderAdam (Student Ministries)

      in reply to GARY COOPER

      Gary, appreciate you checking this out. This truly has the potential to help you process everything you have learned on the weekend!

      552 days ago

  • Mike K

    God never gives us more then we can handle… I wish I could totally believe that when it comes to financial problems …. God is teaching me right now to turn over every dollar to His control. … I thought I was doing all the right things … but God is showing me even though I felt like I was a big giver… I was holding on to, to much. So now I am back to just living one day at a time and trusting that He will work out all the hard stuff that seems like is going to happen weather I like it or not. Please keep me in your Prayers <

    553 days ago1 Reply

    • leeann

      in reply to Mike K

      You got it, Mike! For the first time in years, I have been forced to develop and live on a budget, and the first thing I did was write down my monthly take home pay, and then take my tithe off the top, as scripture tells us to do. Then, I figured how to live, what to give up, etc. Once I made that commitment to take 10% out before doing anything else, I was immediately blessed by a major event in my life. I have to believe that surrender and obedience–willingly given–are rewarded by God. Maybe not in the way we hope for, but in a way that is better than we could hope for. God will take care of you. But you have to trust. Really trust. Praying for you tonight. Show him your commitment to trust in Him. I don’t know how you need to do that, MIke, but it isn’t just saying the words—it’s about really making it clear to God that this is in your HEART, not just your mouth.

      553 days ago

  • Carol

    Gal 5;22 We lack self control and that is why we overspend. We are all guilty of it but until we acknowledge it we remain in bondage. We need to have self control!!!!!

    553 days ago1 Reply

    • Conversation LeaderAdam (Student Ministries)

      in reply to Carol

      Carol, I completely agree with that! Self-Control is the key to living a life of financial stability and balance. What are some ways you have found that help you stay self-controlled?

      552 days ago

  • Gary

    I agree lack of self control allows that sinful nature to run rampant…The only way I seem to tame the lack of self control , is to focus on who I want in control..Paul agreed when he wrote to the Galation church 5:16 So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature,, Live by = Walk according to, along side, always concious of ……God doesnt want perfection He wants that we are headed into the right direction.. Stay the Course my friends!!!!!!!!

    553 days ago

  • leeann

    I went to 2 Catholic funerals recently, in which a song based on Psalm 23 was sung with the repeated response: “Shepherd me, Oh God, beyond my wants, beyond my fears, from death into life.” The song is beautiful, by the way, but even w/o the tune, this line sticks with me and is one I now sing often to remind myself of where I need to be (and CAN be) with Jesus!

    553 days ago1 Reply

    • Conversation LeaderAdam (Student Ministries)

      in reply to leeann

      Leeann, what a great line! Thanks for adding your voice and thanks for leading the way!

      552 days ago

  • Duane lyons

    Things are very nice,but relationships are better!

    553 days ago

  • Cindy Leathers

    The recent talk on Discipline really hit home for me! It made me re-assess some areas of my life that I thought were in control but clearly need some work. My biggest challenge is simply “balancing” the effort I give to each area and having the patience and endurance to build good practices into daily routines. The example in the talk of the apostle Paul training and making his body his slave in order to finish the race and win the prize is hard for me to relate to……but I want it! Goal setting, prioritizing, incorporating accountability, and celebrating success were great take away messages from this talk. But the main “truth” I’m going to focus on is surrendering my weakness to God’s great wisdom and power.

    552 days ago

  • Name

    Michelle Bianchi

    552 days ago