Proverbs 22

Proverbs 22. Credit, the New Slave Master

Proverbs 22:7 "The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender."

For some reason the issue of slavery, and with it all its horrors and injustices,seems to have its focus on that time in America’s beginnings, culminating in the Civil War of 1861-1865 when it was rightfully abolished. As difficult as it mayseem, the United States did not create this monster. It had been with mankindalmost as long as there has been mankind! Slavery in any form is wrong. It isevil at its core. But slavery is more prevalent today than it has ever been. Ithas simply changed its marketing approach.

In the days of old, one group would attack and capture another group andeither keep them or sell them as commodities. It was a common andacceptable practice- acceptable at least to the one doing the selling, not the one being sold that is! Slavery has not disappeared; some of it has goneunderground in the form of human trafficking, forced prostitution and or sellingproducts to create slave by addictions. How prophetically accurate the word ofour Lord that, “The love of money is the root of all evil!” Money is simply atool; it is the love, lust and greed for it that creates the problems!

But there is another slave master out there who cares little for your well being.Let’s call him “The Credit Master!” He captures his victims not with ropes butwith the snares of enticements! We have all heard his voice, “Get the credityou deserve!” or “No credit-no problem!” How easy it is for the simple to fallprey to the financial shackles awaiting them! Listen again to the wisdom of God, “The borrower is a slave to the lender!” Just because you can buy on credit- should you? There is nothing simpler, do with less while you are building your life. Don’t keep up with the “Jones'.” Don’t let your fleshly desires listen to the Credit Master. Give God something to bless, such as, a life free of prideful, instant gratification. Take time, work, build and save. God will help you! Be blessed and stay free.

Rev. John Watford 
Lead Pastor

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