What does the Bible say about not paying your bills?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that believers should faithfully meet their financial obligations, honoring God through honesty, responsibility, and love for others. Psalm 37:21 warns against borrowing without repayment, while Romans 13:8 calls Christians to owe no one anything except the continuing debt of love. Proverbs 22:7 soberly notes that debt can bring people under another's power. Ecclesiastes 5:4 urges prompt fulfillment of vows, and Matthew 5:23-24 emphasizes seeking reconciliation when our actions have harmed others. Yet the gospel also calls the church to compassionate care: 1 Timothy 5:8 stresses providing for one’s household, and believers should seek help, counsel, and repentance when hardship prevents payment.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Psalms 37:21 10 votes
The wicked borrow, and don't pay back, But the righteous give generously.
- 1 Timothy 5:8 6 votes
But if anyone doesn't provide for his own, and especially his own household, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever.
- Romans 13:8 6 votes
Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law.
- Ecclesiastes 5:4 5 votes
When you vow a vow to God, don't defer to pay it; for he has no pleasure in fools. Pay that which you vow.
- Proverbs 22:7 4 votes
The rich rule over the poor. The borrower is servant to the lender.
- Matthew 5:23-24 3 votes
[23] "If therefore you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has anything against you, [24] leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.
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