Loan Me a Dime
How often have we said to a friend while standing at the counter or vending machine, “Loan me a dime.” With such a small amount, the friend quickly hands over the loan and most of the time the indebtedness is forgiven and forgotten. But what if it was a larger amount, say a hundred dollars or even a thousand? We live in an economical society that is credit based and most of us have some amount of debt. When it comes to lending and borrowing, how are Christians to behave?
Without credit, most of us would not have a house or a vehicle. Many of us finance household appliances or recreation items. If we’re not careful, our indebtedness can quickly exceed our means to meet those financial obligations. Christians are to be wise and frugal when it comes to handling our blessings from God. When discussing the need to pay taxes, the bible says, “Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.” (Romans 13:8) Many times, Jesus used the subject of indebtedness to teach us responsibility to God and man.
What about personal lending to a family member, friend, or someone in need? Jesus said, “Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away.” (Matthew 5:42) and in Luke’s version He says “Give to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods do not ask them back.” (Luke 6:30) It may sound silly to give a loan and not expect to be repaid. But this is more of a matter of the heart rather than an unwise financial arrangement. Christians are instructed to “do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share.” (1 Timothy 6:18)
Jay Launius - 2023, Maud church of Christ, Maud, Texas