If you are struggling with debt and don’t know where to turn, you may have considered debt counseling. For those who have strong religious beliefs, Christian debt counseling may be a good option.
Before we talk about Christian debt counseling services, let’s talk briefly about religion and money. Are they related?
I think it is difficult to argue that they aren’t. If you have read the bible, you know that it discusses money a great deal.
The truth is that debt changes who you are and how you make decisions. Few things have been attributed to the dissolution of so many marriages. As Jesus said, “No servant can serve to masters” (Luke 16:13)
We live in a system that is designed to make us economic slaves. I see it first hand with my four year old son who is so impacted by commercials that the phrases that most often come out of his mouth are “I want…” and “We need to get…”.
Now, I know it is normal for children to want things, but I worry about his inability to enjoy all the things he already has. Like many adults, he is always looking to the next thing and is the classic example of a victim of advertising. I know that if I don’t work with him now to help him deal with his “stuffitis” that he will struggle later I life.
As adults, we use things to fill voids in our lives and this constant desire for stuff makes us vulnerable when things go bad. We aren’t prepared for a job loss or an economic down turn. The ultimate goal for everyone should be to “owe no man anything” (Romans 13:8) That is the only way to have true peace.
Christian debt counseling is designed to help families looking for hope by providing faith-based financial counseling and education. The main focus is helping people understand what got them into the situation they are in and how they can avoid repeating their mistakes.
Basically, they look at your overall position and help you come up with a financial plan that will get you back on track. Biblical principals will guide your plan, and the counselors attempt to come up with a plan that is a win-win for both parties.
Ideally, you want to look for free Christian debt counseling or a non profit Christian debt counseling service. Like anything else, you need to do your research and make sure the company you are dealing with is reputable. There are many companies out there that claim to be “Christian” debt counselors, but in all actuality they are not. They just tout themselves as a belief based service so that you will trust them and fork over large fees up front.
A referral from your church or a local ministry is one of the best places to find Christian debt counseling. You can also research on the internet, just make sure you are careful and work with a reputable company.
It is important to note that credit counseling in general is not the best thing for your credit score. Most people should only consider it when things have just gotten too out of hand, and they can’t go it alone any longer. Using a good Christian debt counseling service is a way that you can avoid bankruptcy, grow stronger in your faith and hopefully avoid the mistakes of the past. It can also give you the emotional support that you need to get through a very dark time.
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