WHO ARE YOU IN DEBT TO? By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: "Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law." – Romans 13:8
Introduction
In today’s world, debt has become a heavy burden for many individuals, families, and even nations. People are enslaved to financial debt, emotional debt, and spiritual debt, often without realizing its long-term consequences. Many pursue worldly possessions, indulging in impulse buying and accumulating debts that they can never repay in their lifetime. But the most crucial question we must ask ourselves is: Who are we truly in debt to? The Bible teaches us that our primary debt should be one of love and obedience to God. It is through Jesus Christ that we have received redemption, and therefore, our lives must reflect our gratitude and commitment to Him. This study will explore the dangers of worldly debt, the deception of materialism, and the importance of prioritizing our spiritual indebtedness to Christ.
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The Bondage of Worldly Debt
"The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender." – Proverbs 22:7
Many people today live under the suffocating burden of debt. Loans, mortgages, credit cards, and materialistic pursuits have caused people to become enslaved to financial institutions and lenders. Instead of living within their means, they are driven by societal pressures to acquire more wealth, more possessions, and a higher status. God does not desire His people to be bound by the world’s economic systems in a way that hinders them from serving Him freely. Those who claim to belong to God should not fall into the trap of coveting worldly riches at the expense of their spiritual lives. True wealth is not found in material possessions but in a life of contentment and godly purpose.
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The Deception of Materialism
"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven." – Matthew 6:19-20
One of the biggest deceptions in modern society is the belief that happiness and success come from material wealth. Advertisements, social media, and worldly influences condition people to believe that they must acquire the latest gadgets, luxurious homes, and expensive lifestyles to be fulfilled. However, this pursuit only leads to stress, discontentment, and spiritual emptiness. Many who have sought after riches have lost their souls in the process. Instead of focusing on accumulating earthly treasures, believers should store up treasures in heaven through acts of righteousness, generosity, and obedience to God.
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The True Indebtedness to Christ
"For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s." – 1 Corinthians 6:20
As believers, we must recognize that we owe everything to Jesus Christ. He paid the ultimate price for our salvation through His sacrifice on the cross. Because of His obedience, we have been set free from the bondage of sin and death. This spiritual debt should govern how we live our lives. Instead of being enslaved by worldly desires, we should dedicate ourselves to serving Christ with our time, resources, and talents. Every decision we make should reflect our gratitude for His redeeming love. When we acknowledge our true indebtedness to Jesus, we will prioritize His kingdom above all else.
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Avoiding the Pitfalls of Debt
"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
To avoid the bondage of financial and spiritual debt, believers must exercise self-control and godly wisdom. Many fall into debt because they lack discipline in their spending habits. Before making financial commitments, one must ask: "Is this purchase necessary? Does it align with God’s will for my life?" Practicing contentment and trusting in God’s provision are key principles that will keep us from falling into the trap of debt. God promises to provide for our needs, and when we put our trust in Him rather than in material possessions, we will experience true peace and freedom.
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Summary
The world promotes a lifestyle of consumerism, debt, and materialism that traps people in endless cycles of financial and spiritual bondage. God does not want His people to be enslaved by worldly possessions but rather to live with contentment and gratitude. The true debt that we must recognize is our indebtedness to Christ, who redeemed us through His sacrifice. When we focus on living for Him, we will experience true wealth that cannot be measured in earthly riches.
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Conclusion
As believers, we must evaluate our lives and ask ourselves who we are truly indebted to. Are we enslaved by financial burdens, worldly desires, and societal expectations, or are we living in gratitude and obedience to Christ? When we recognize our true indebtedness to Jesus, we will prioritize His will above all else and seek to store up eternal treasures. God calls us to live with wisdom, contentment, and a heart devoted to Him.
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Call to Action
If you have been caught up in the cycle of debt, materialism, or misplaced priorities, it is time to surrender your life fully to Christ. Seek His wisdom in all your decisions and trust Him to provide for your needs. Make a commitment today to live in financial and spiritual freedom by aligning your life with God’s will.
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Final Word of Encouragement
You do not have to be enslaved by the world’s systems. God has given you the power to overcome financial and spiritual bondage through His grace. Seek first the kingdom of God, and all other things will be added to you. Trust in His provision and live with a heart that is truly indebted to Christ alone.
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Prayer of Salvation
Heavenly Father, I come before You today acknowledging that I have been enslaved by the things of this world. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and that He died and rose again to redeem me. Today, I surrender my life to You. Jesus, be my Lord and Savior. Guide my steps, teach me to walk in wisdom, and help me to live a life that is pleasing to You. Thank You for saving me and setting me free. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
