Managing money today can be stressful, particularly when it comes to lending and borrowing. For many Filipinos, debt has become a part of life–from household loans to financing small businesses. In fact, as of March 2025, outstanding loans held by universal and commercial banks in the Philippines had increased by 11.8%, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
While debt can be helpful, it can also be dangerous when mismanaged. But there’s a deeper way to approach it. By reflecting on what the Bible says about lending and debt, we can gain valuable guidance for making more informed financial decisions.
These biblical principles not only benefit individuals and businesses but also promote peace and integrity in our financial dealings. In this article, we’ll explore bible verses about lending money, offering insights into financial responsibility, generosity, and wisdom.
TL;DR
- The Bible teaches that lending should stem from generosity, not financial gain, and should be done without expecting repayment.
- Excessive borrowing leads to financial bondage, so the Bible urges prompt debt repayment.
- Lending should be an act of love and compassion, not for personal recognition.
- Biblical teachings encourage wise stewardship of resources, which invites blessings and abundance.
Generosity in Lending
In the Bible, lending is viewed as an act of generosity, intended to support others without expecting anything in return. The scriptures emphasise the importance of lending with compassion, especially to those in need.
Biblical Guidance:
Deuteronomy 23:19-20
“You shall not charge interest on loans to your brother, interest on money, interest on food, interest on anything that is lent for interest. You may charge a foreigner interest, but you may not charge your brother interest, that the Lord your God may bless you in all that you undertake in the land that you are entering to take possession of it.”
This verse emphasises that lending within the community should be selfless and not for profit. The act of lending should come from a place of generosity, not exploitation.
Luke 6:34-35
“And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return.”
Here, Jesus teaches that lending should be an act of love and compassion, not a transaction where repayment is expected. True generosity means helping others selflessly, without anticipating anything in return.
Proverbs 19:17
“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.”
This verse underscores that when we lend to those in need, we are lending to God. Generosity is an act of righteousness, and it promises divine reward.
Lessons Learned:
- Lending is about generosity, not personal gain.
- True generosity means lending without expecting repayment or recognition.
- Lending to those in need is a way of honouring God and showing compassion.
Lending with No Expectation of Gain
Lending should come from a humble and loving heart, free from expectations of repayment or reward. This selfless approach is central to the Bible’s view on lending.
Biblical Guidance:
Matthew 6:1-4
“Beware of practising your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
This passage teaches that true generosity should be done quietly and humbly. Lending should not be about seeking recognition but rather about helping others in need.
Luke 6:35
“But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return.”
Again, Jesus reinforces the idea that lending should be an act of love, free from expectations of repayment or reward.
Proverbs 28:27
“Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses.”
This verse promises that those who are generous will never lack, and their acts of kindness will be rewarded in ways that exceed their understanding.
Lessons Learned:
- Lending should be driven by love and compassion, not for recognition or reward.
- Generosity is its own reward, even if there is no immediate return.
- Lending selflessly builds stronger relationships and goodwill.
Suggested Read: Understanding 5-6 Money Lending And Its Legal Implications in The Philippines
Warning Against Debt
The Bible issues strong warnings about the dangers of debt. Borrowing excessively can lead to financial hardship, strain relationships, and even limit personal freedom. The bible verse about lending money urges caution when it comes to borrowing.
Biblical Guidance:
Proverbs 22:7
“The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.”
This verse highlights the power imbalance that debt creates. The borrower becomes indebted to the lender, leading to potential financial enslavement. It’s a reminder to be cautious about borrowing.
Romans 13:8
“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another.”
This verse emphasises that all debts, except the obligation to love, should be cleared promptly. It stresses that financial obligations should be settled quickly to avoid the strain of unresolved debt.
Proverbs 6:1-5
“My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have shaken hands in pledge for a stranger, you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth.”
This passage warns against guaranteeing someone else’s debt. It suggests avoiding pledges and guarantees that could trap you in financial commitments.
Lessons Learned:
- Debt can limit your financial freedom and control over your life.
- It’s essential to pay off debts promptly to avoid strain.
- Be cautious about guaranteeing others’ debts, as it can lead to unforeseen financial trouble.
In the modern context, the Philippines' Digital Lending Platform Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 22.87% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2032, marking a significant shift towards digital finance platforms. As the market expands, the Bible's message remains clear: be mindful of the debt you take on and the terms you agree to.
Suggested Read: How a Business Loan Works for Your Company's Finance
Obligation to Repay
Repaying debt is a moral duty, according to the Bible. The act of borrowing comes with the responsibility to pay back what is owed.
Biblical Guidance:
Psalm 37:21
“The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously.”
This verse emphasises that repaying debts is a moral obligation. It contrasts the wicked, who borrow without repaying, with the righteous, who give generously and fulfil their financial obligations.
Matthew 18:27
“Then the master of that servant was moved with compassion, released him, and forgave him the debt.”
While forgiveness is important, the Bible also teaches that debt should be repaid. Fulfilling financial obligations is a righteous act.
Luke 19:8
“But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, ‘Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.’”
Zacchaeus demonstrated the importance of restitution. He not only repaid what he owed but also went above and beyond to make things right.
Lessons Learned:
- Repayment is not just a legal obligation; it’s a moral one.
- Fulfilling financial commitments builds trust and integrity.
- Repaying debt is an act of righteousness and honour.
Wise Borrowing and Planning
The Bible teaches that borrowing should never be done impulsively. Instead, it should be preceded by careful planning and consideration.
Biblical Guidance:
Proverbs 21:5
“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
This verse underscores the importance of careful planning in financial decisions. Hasty decisions, especially in borrowing, often lead to financial ruin.
Luke 14:28
“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?”
Jesus teaches the importance of budgeting and assessing costs before committing to financial projects.
Proverbs 15:22
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”
This verse highlights that wise financial decisions require input from others. Consulting with experts ensures sound financial choices.
Lessons Learned:
- Financial decisions should be made with careful thought and planning.
- Seeking advice from multiple sources ensures wise decision-making.
- Planning ahead helps avoid hasty and potentially costly decisions.
Additional Reads: Practical Tips for Getting Your Small Business Loan Approved
Blessings for Faithful Stewardship
The Bible promises blessings for those who manage their resources wisely and faithfully. Good stewardship yields both financial and spiritual benefits.
Biblical Guidance:
Matthew 25:29
“For everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance.”
Faithful stewardship leads to abundance. By managing what we have wisely, we are entrusted with more.
1 Timothy 6:17-19
“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.”
This passage reminds us to place our trust in God’s provision and use our wealth responsibly.
Proverbs 3:9-10
“Honour the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
Honouring God with our wealth brings blessings. By prioritising stewardship, we open ourselves to greater abundance.
Lessons Learned:
- Faithful stewardship results in financial and spiritual blessings.
- Trusting in God’s provision ensures wise use of wealth.
- Responsible management invites both material and spiritual abundance.
Helping the Poor
The Bible encourages us to lend to the poor as an act of compassion and righteousness, with an emphasis on helping those in need without expecting any form of repayment. Lending in this context is a way of showing kindness, generosity, and the love of Christ to those who are less fortunate.
Biblical Guidance:
Proverbs 19:17
“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.”
This verse teaches that when we lend to the poor, we are, in essence, lending to God. It reminds us that acts of kindness to those in need are not just charitable acts, but sacred ones. We are not merely helping people, but fulfilling a divine calling.
Luke 6:30
“Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back.”
Jesus' words emphasise that our generosity should be unconditional. Lending to the poor should be a reflection of the love and mercy God has shown us, with no expectation of return or compensation.
Lessons Learned:
- Lending to the poor is not just an earthly act but one that honours God.
- Generosity to the needy is a form of righteousness that promises divine rewards.
- The act of lending is an expression of love that reflects God’s heart for the vulnerable.
The Dangers of Surety
The Bible warns us about the potential dangers of becoming surety for another person’s debt. Surety involves assuming responsibility for another's financial obligations, which can create unnecessary risks and lead to hardship. The scriptures guide us to be cautious and wise in our financial dealings.
Biblical Guidance:
Proverbs 22:26-27
“Be not one of those who give pledges, who put up security for debts. If you have nothing with which to pay, why should your bed be taken from under you?”
This passage warns against entering into agreements where we could be held responsible for debts that aren't ours. It suggests that assuming another person’s financial burden can lead to serious personal consequences.
Proverbs 11:15
“Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer, but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe.”
Here, we are reminded that offering security for someone else's debt can result in harm. It's better to avoid such arrangements when possible to protect yourself from financial ruin.
Lessons Learned:
- Be cautious when assuming responsibility for others' debts; the risks can be severe.
- Financial security should not come at the cost of personal security.
- Protect your financial well-being by avoiding unnecessary guarantees.
Avoiding Materialism and Trusting God
The Bible encourages us to avoid being consumed by material wealth and to place our trust in God rather than our financial assets. When we prioritise possessions over relationships and faith, it can lead to anxiety, greed, and even unethical financial decisions.
Biblical Guidance:
Matthew 6:24
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.”
Jesus teaches that we cannot place our trust in both wealth and God. Money is a tool, but our hearts should be devoted to God first. Our financial decisions should be guided by faith, not by the desire for material gain.
Luke 12:15
“And he said to them, ‘Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.’”
Jesus warns against covetousness and the idea that our value is tied to what we own. In our financial dealings, we are called to place our trust in God’s provision rather than being driven by the accumulation of material wealth.
Lessons Learned:
- Money is a tool, not a master. Trusting God brings peace over materialism.
- Our value does not come from what we own, but from our relationship with God.
- Avoid letting wealth cloud your judgment or lead you away from righteous financial decisions.
Keeping Relationships Above Transactions
The Bible emphasises that relationships should take precedence over financial transactions. It warns against letting money create division or lead to conflict, urging us to approach lending and borrowing with love, respect, and integrity.
Biblical Guidance:
Matthew 5:23-24
“So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.”
While this passage primarily refers to reconciliation, it also offers a valuable principle for financial interactions: relationships are more important than transactions. If lending money or dealing with debt strains a relationship, we should address the conflict first.
Proverbs 3:27-28
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. Do not say to your neighbour, ‘Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give it,’ when you have it with you.”
This passage teaches us to be honest and straightforward in our dealings with others. If you can lend, do so with integrity and fairness, without using money to manipulate or control relationships.
Lessons Learned:
- Place relationships above financial transactions; love should guide your decisions.
- Honour commitments and be fair in lending, as money shouldn’t disrupt friendships or family ties.
- Prioritise reconciliation and integrity in financial dealings to preserve peace and trust.
How n90 Can Help: Integrating Biblical Principles into Financial Planning
For many SMEs in the Philippines, financial success is closely tied to doing what’s right—for employees, customers, and the community. At n90, we understand that strong values are at the core of sustainable business growth.
That’s why our lending approach is built on trust, transparency, and accountability—not just numbers. Whether you're managing cash flow, expanding operations, or funding new opportunities, we provide ethical financial solutions that align with your long-term goals and values. Here's why SMEs across the Philippines trust us:
- Building Long-Term Relationships: We prioritise establishing trust with our clients, ensuring that every loan or financial solution is founded on mutual respect and honesty.
- Tailored Financial Solutions: We offer customised financial products that meet the unique needs of your business, ensuring you have access to the right funding at the right time, while avoiding unnecessary debt.
- Transparent Financing: At n90, we are committed to honesty and transparency in all our dealings. We ensure that all charges and terms are clearly communicated, with no hidden fees.
- Financial Coaching: We guide you through every step of the lending process, offering support and advice on how to manage debt responsibly and grow your business sustainably.
- Ethical Lending Practices: We lend with the intention of helping your business grow, not just to make a profit. Our focus is on providing solutions that build long-term success, not just short-term gain.
We help you grow your business without compromising on integrity—because at n90, we believe responsible financing builds stronger businesses and stronger communities.
Conclusion
Ethical financial practices aren’t just good values—they’re good business. Whether you're managing debt, planning growth, or facing short-term cash flow challenges, making responsible decisions helps build long-term stability and trust.
At n90, we support SMEs with transparent, values-driven lending solutions tailored to your business needs. If you’re looking to grow your business while staying true to your principles, get in touch with us today. Let’s build a stronger financial future—one that reflects both resilience and responsibility.
FAQs
Q. What does God say about lending money?
Ans. The Bible encourages generosity and warns against exploiting others. Bible verses about lending money emphasise that lending should be done with compassion, without charging excessive interest or taking advantage of the borrower (Deuteronomy 23:19-20). Lending money with interest in the bible is allowed in certain situations, but should not lead to exploitation or oppression.
Q. What is the parable about lending money?
Ans. In the parable of the unmerciful servant (Matthew 18:23-35), Jesus teaches that forgiveness should be shown to others, including in financial matters. While the parable isn't directly about lending, it emphasises mercy, kindness, and the consequences of unforgiveness, which can apply to lending and debt. This principle also aligns with lending money with interest, as seen in a biblical verse, where the focus is on fairness and generosity.
Q. What is Proverbs 19:17?
Ans. Proverbs 19:17 says, "Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done." This verse encourages lending to those in need, framing it as a way of serving God, who will repay the kindness in kind. It aligns with the Bible verse about lending money, which emphasises selfless giving rather than expecting a return.
Q. What is Romans 13:8?
Ans. Romans 13:8 states, "Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law." This verse emphasises the importance of love in relationships and encourages paying off debts while prioritising love and respect for others.
Q. Is lending money a sin?
Ans. Lending money is not inherently a sin. The Bible teaches that lending can be a good act when done with kindness and without exploiting the borrower. However, charging excessive interest or lending with malicious intent is condemned (Exodus 22:25).
