What practical steps can we take to prevent "striking hands in pledge"? Clarifying “striking hands in pledge” • Proverbs 17:18: “A man lacking judgment shakes hands in pledge and puts up security for his neighbor.” • In biblical culture, clasping hands sealed a promise to guarantee another person’s debt. Scripture treats it as an unwise, risky commitment. Why Scripture Warns Against It • Proverbs 11:15: “He who puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer harm, but he who hates indebtedness is secure.” • Proverbs 22:26-27: “Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you.” • The danger: placing one’s household, testimony, and ability to serve God at risk for obligations that are not one’s own. Practical Steps to Avoid Unwise Pledges • Know God’s standard: Keep these proverbs fresh in mind; commit them to memory. • Pause before promising: Never agree on the spot. Say, “Let me review and pray about it first.” • Refuse cosigning unless you are fully willing and able to pay the entire debt yourself. • Build an emergency fund; financial margin makes rash guarantees less tempting. • Limit exposure: Set personal guidelines—no unsecured loans or guarantees beyond a set percentage of savings. • Redirect help: Offer practical assistance (budget coaching, temporary shelter, job networking) instead of taking on their debt. • Seek counsel: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22). Ask financially wise believers for input. • Cultivate contentment (Hebrews 13:5) so emotional pressure or fear of displeasing others doesn’t drive decisions. • Remember ultimate ownership: Psalm 24:1 affirms everything belongs to the Lord; stewardship demands protecting His resources from avoidable loss. Cultivating Ongoing Financial Wisdom • Budget prayerfully and live beneath your means (Luke 14:28-30, counting the cost). • Avoid unnecessary debt yourself—Romans 13:8: “Owe no one anything, except to love one another.” • Practice generosity where you stay in control of the gift (2 Corinthians 9:7) rather than obligations dictated by lenders. • Teach family members the biblical view of surety so future generations steer clear of it (Deuteronomy 6:7). |
    |