Hey Clawson family!

Song: 

Scripture: 

Proverbs 22:7 (NIV)

“The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.”

Devotional:

Many people today feel trapped in financial slavery—overwhelmed by debt, struggling to make ends meet, and burdened by financial stress. This cycle can lead to fear, anxiety, and a sense of hopelessness. But God has called us to live in freedom, including financial freedom.

1. Recognizing Financial Bondage

Debt and financial mismanagement can weigh us down, making it difficult to be generous, serve others freely, and live in peace. Proverbs 22:7 warns us that borrowing leads to servitude. When we live beyond our means or rely too heavily on credit, we risk losing our financial independence and peace of mind.

2. Seeking God’s Wisdom

God desires for us to be good stewards of the resources He provides. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” Through prayer and seeking His guidance, we can develop a mindset of stewardship rather than consumption.

3. Committing to Financial Discipline

Breaking free from financial slavery requires intentional steps:

• Budgeting Wisely: Proverbs 21:5 says, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” A budget helps prioritize needs over wants.

• Avoiding Unnecessary Debt: Romans 13:8 reminds us to “let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another.” Pay off existing debt and avoid borrowing when possible.

• Practicing Generosity: Even in financial struggles, generosity is key. Luke 6:38 says, “Give, and it will be given to you.” When we trust God with our finances, He provides in ways we cannot imagine.

• Trusting God as Provider: Philippians 4:19 assures us, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Our provision ultimately comes from God, not our jobs, bank accounts, or credit lines.

4. Walking in Freedom

Financial freedom is not just about wealth—it’s about peace, contentment, and alignment with God’s will. When we break free from financial slavery, we experience the joy of giving, the peace of trusting God, and the ability to pursue our God-given purpose without financial hindrance.

Debt can feel like a weight that keeps us from fully experiencing financial freedom. When we owe money, we are bound to lenders rather than fully surrendered to God in our finances. Living debt-free doesn’t happen overnight, but it starts with making wise decisions—budgeting, saving, and avoiding unnecessary spending. Financial peace comes when we steward our resources well and live within our means.

Journal: 

Answer the following questions in your journal:

1. What financial habits do I need to change to break free from financial stress?

2. How can I seek God’s wisdom in my financial decisions?

3. In what ways can I be more generous, even with limited resources?

Training:

Father, I surrender my financial burdens to You. Teach me to be a faithful steward of the resources You provide. Grant me wisdom, discipline, and a heart of generosity. Help me to break free from financial slavery and walk in the abundant life You have promised. Help me to be wise with my finances. Give me the discipline to get out of debt and the wisdom to avoid financial burdens that keep me from fully following You. Amen.