The Debtor’s Burden
Margin, established, rooted, balanced, driven, faithful, responsible, steward, good, capable, loving, prudent, longsuffering, wise…
When I think about the life I want to live, these are some of the words that come to mind that describe it. I know I’ll never perfectly achieve all of these, but it’s good to at least identify the direction we want to go.
There are many things in life that can derail, detract, or destroy our end goals. In this edition of Money Meditations, we will consider the consequences of debt regarding the life we want to build here on Earth.
Take a moment to sit down with a piece of paper (or just in your thoughts if you’re on the go) and write down all the words you would want to describe your life. This isn’t a test so there’s no right or wrong answer. Just lay it out as if you were mapping out the route for a long road trip.
Now consider what debt does to this life. Debt is a promise you make to someone that you will pay back the money you owe them. In essence, you’re buying something with someone else’s money. The Bible says that this makes you a slave (Proverbs 22:7). Until the debt has been paid, all your future earnings belong to the lender. You’re no longer working for you…you’re working for someone else! And the things that you bought with debt you don’t actually own. Instead of owning, it’s more like you’re carrying them…like a burden. The debtors burden.
Debt is not good. It’s not a sin and, in some rare cases, it is a necessity. But call it what it is. It’s bad, and it doesn’t help you build the life you want. Part of my coaching practice is to help people see the real freedom that can come from shedding the burden of debt!
You add margin to your budget…and to your life! If there is a season where you can’t work, or are switching jobs, or starting another business with minimal profits at first…you can do that! Suddenly not having a direct income is not as incredibly important as if you have monthly payments. The freedom and peace of mind is tangible and wonderful!
And it is possible…no matter the amount of debt! This is where a good coach comes into play. Someone who can be in your corner and help you navigate the season of debt repayment. An encourager. A cheerleader. A friend.
If you find yourself in this season of life, reach out. I’d love to see you take the reigns of your financial life and find freedom from debt!
If any of these thoughts strikes a chord in your heart or makes you think of someone else, please connect with me via email (coachingwithconnor1@gmail.com), through social media, or through my website (themoneymentoring.com).
Thank you for reading! God bless you!
