What does Proverbs 22:26 warn against regarding financial agreements with others? The Text “Do not be one of those who gives pledges, who puts up security for debts.” (Proverbs 22:26) Key Idea: Avoid Co-Signing • The verse literally forbids becoming “security”—what today we call co-signing or guaranteeing another person’s loan. • By pledging your own resources for someone else’s obligation, you place yourself under a debt you do not control. Why Co-Signing Is Risky • Loss of control — Once you sign, the lender can demand payment from you if the borrower defaults (Proverbs 22:27). • Strained relationships — Money issues quickly damage friendships and families (Proverbs 17:18). • Threat to personal stability — Your income, savings, or even home can be taken to satisfy the debt (Proverbs 6:1-5). Underlying Principles 1. Stewardship: God entrusts resources to be managed wisely, not gambled on another’s reliability (Matthew 25:14-30). 2. Personal responsibility: Each person should carry his own load (Galatians 6:5) and repay what he borrows (Psalm 37:21). 3. Freedom to serve: Debt can enslave and hinder obedience to the Lord (Proverbs 22:7; Romans 13:8). Practical Takeaways • Help others through gifts or interest-free loans you can afford to lose, rather than co-signing. • Encourage loved ones to seek counsel, budget honestly, and borrow only what they can repay. • If you have already co-signed, work quickly to release yourself from the obligation (Proverbs 6:3-4). Related Scriptures • Proverbs 11:15 “Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer.” • Proverbs 20:16; 27:13 Warnings repeated for emphasis. • 2 Corinthians 9:7 Generous giving is commended, but it must be voluntary, not compelled by legal obligation. A Call to Trust God, Not Debt Choosing not to guarantee another’s loan is not a lack of compassion; it is obedience to a clear biblical safeguard. God calls His people to trust Him for provision and to exercise wisdom that protects both resources and relationships. |
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