As our national debt soars, so does the interest we owe on it. Much like our personal debt ties us to working to pay off the bills, national debt means higher taxes.
National debt rises because of government spending.
Right now every citizen – man, woman, and child – in America owes over $43,000. Per taxpayer it breaks down to over $120,000.
A delicate question to discuss is how much income does the government have a right to take in the form of taxes. When does it become extortion? Why is that important? As Christians, why should we care?
Debt is a master. The indebted are slaves. The greater the debt is the less freedom for all. As the government continues to spend, our children and grandchildren must carry the burden. It is the road into slavery.
And there was a great cry of the people and of their wives against their brethren the Jews. For there were that said, We, our sons, and our daughters, are many: therefore we take up corn for them, that we may eat, and live. Some also there were that said, We have mortgaged our lands, vineyards, and houses, that we might buy corn, because of the dearth. There were also that said, We have borrowed money for the king’s tribute, and that upon our lands and vineyards. Yet now our flesh is as the flesh of our brethren, our children as their children: and, lo, we bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be servants, and some of our daughters are brought unto bondage already: neither is it in our power to redeem them; for other men have our lands and vineyards. And I was very angry when I heard their cry and these words.
Nehemiah 5:1-6
Ultimately Nehemiah had a talk with the leaders, and the burden was forgiven.
Then said they, We will restore them, and will require nothing of them; so will we do as thou sayest. Then I called the priests, and took an oath of them, that they should do according to this promise.
Nehemiah 5:12
Unless someone forgives the debt, and we cannot count on that, debt is a road into slavery. We need to avoid it at all costs. If we continue to pile it on, we could ultimately dig a hole so big that we may never get out. Even as it is right now, we need God’s help.
Please continue to pray for revival.
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
2 Chronicles 7:14
LIFE APPLICATION
Key Focal Verse:
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
2 Timothy 3:12-15
Today’s challenge is to pray before you spend. Then, just as you hold yourself accountable, pray about the importance of holding your government accountable. Pray that America returns to God.