- Before making any decisions on what to do, you need to turn to God. Ask for guidance in getting out of debt and search the scriptures to see where God might be leading you. Most likely you didn't fall into debt overnight, don't expect God to wave his hand and make it all go away, but instead look for his help on coming up with a long term solution.
- You borrowed the money, you need to pay it back. Write down your expenses and see what you can cut out. Do you really need cable TV or all those extra features on your cell phone? Buy store brands instead of name brands, cancel the health club membership and keep in shape instead by walking through your neighborhood. When you realize what you can do without, you can make a plan for paying your debts off sooner.
- There are always ways that we can help people who are worse off than we are. Don't forget acts of charity. You may not be able to afford to make a large financial contribution, but you can also give your time. Volunteering to serve meals once a week at a homeless center will help put your own problems into perspective. Mentor a child or befriend someone at a nursing home. Find a way to give of yourself.
- You won't get out of debt by getting yourself further into debt. Stop using your credit cards and don't look for new lines of credit. Take care of the car that you have instead of buying a new one. Learn to do without instead of adding to what you already owe.
- If you find yourself drowning in debt and can't see a way to get out, you may want to contact a Christian debt relief agency. Using a Christian agency will help you to know that the people you're working with have the same values that you do. There are many Christian debt reduction agencies out there. Make sure that you check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints against the agency; some scammers see Christians as easy targets. A Christian debt relief agency will help you consolidate your debt, set up a budget and also a payment plan so that you'll be able to live within your means.
