How to Get Out of Debt Biblically | Steps to Financial Freedom
Debt has a way of creeping in quietly and settling in like an unwelcome guest. At first, it seems manageable—a necessary tool to get by. But over time, it tightens its grip, weighing on your mind, your relationships, and even your faith. If you’ve ever felt stuck, wondering if there’s a way out, know this: God never intended for you to live in financial bondage.
The Bible speaks about money often—not because wealth is the goal, but because stewardship is a reflection of our trust in Him. Proverbs 22:7 reminds us, "The borrower is servant to the lender." That’s not just a financial truth; it’s a spiritual one. So how do you break free? How do you move from survival mode to a life of generosity, wisdom, and peace?
1. Recognize That Debt Is a “Burden”—Not a Life Sentence
Debt can feel overwhelming, but it does not define you. The first step toward freedom is recognizing that your current situation is not your permanent reality. You may feel stuck, but God is in the business of setting people free. Start by surrendering your financial worries to Him, asking for wisdom and discipline to move forward.
2. Stop Adding to the Burden
It’s hard to make progress when you’re still digging a deeper hole. Taking on new debt while trying to pay off the old is like trying to fill a bathtub with the drain open. Pause. Take a hard look at spending habits. Are there small shifts—like cutting unnecessary subscriptions, delaying purchases, or cooking at home—that could make a big difference over time? This isn’t about deprivation; it’s about realigning priorities.
3. Put God at the Center of Your Finances
Money has a way of revealing what we trust most. Jesus said in Matthew 6:21, "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." When we put God first—even in our finances—He provides in ways we never expected. Tithing, giving, and managing money with integrity open the door for God’s blessing, not just financially, but in every area of life.
4. Make a Plan (Even a Simple One)
Getting out of debt doesn’t happen by accident. The best way to break free is to be intentional. Start by listing your debts and creating a game plan. Some people use the Debt Snowball Method—paying off the smallest debt first for quick wins and momentum. Others tackle high-interest debt first. The method matters less than the commitment to move forward.
5. Shift Your Lifestyle, Not Just Your Budget
Freedom requires change. That doesn’t mean giving up everything you love—it means deciding what matters most. Maybe it’s downsizing for a season, choosing experiences over things, or learning to find contentment in simplicity. The goal isn’t just to get out of debt but to stay out. And that requires a mindset shift from having more to needing less.
6. Establish Guardrails for the Future
Financial freedom isn’t just about paying off debt—it’s about creating a foundation for lasting stability. That means building an emergency fund, saving for the future, and learning to say “no” when necessary. It also means keeping generosity at the forefront because true freedom isn’t just about what you keep—it’s about what you can give.
7. Keep Your Eyes on the Bigger Picture
Imagine a life where money is no longer a source of stress but a tool for impact. Where you’re able to give freely, live generously, and pursue what God has called you to do—without the weight of debt holding you back. That’s the picture of financial freedom. And every step you take in the right direction brings you closer.
Take the First Step
Getting out of debt isn’t about chasing wealth; it’s about stepping into the life God has for you. It’s about living with wisdom, peace, and purpose. And it starts with one small decision at a time.