Debt
Overview
Since the early days of the Church, the Lord’s prophets have repeatedly warned against the bondage of debt. One of the great dangers of debt is the interest that accompanies it. When it is necessary to incur debt, such as a reasonable amount to purchase a modest home or to complete one’s education, the debt should be repaid as quickly as possible.
True to the Faith, a Church publication, gives the following additional counsel regarding debt:
“Some forms of credit, such as credit cards, have particularly high interest rates. Once you are in debt, you find that interest has no mercy. It continues to accumulate, regardless of your situation—whether you are employed or jobless, healthy or sick. It never goes away until the debt is paid. Do not be deceived by credit offers, even if they make debt seem attractive by promising low interest rates or no interest for a certain period of time.
“Look to the condition of your finances. Discipline yourself in your purchases, avoiding debt to the extent you can. In most cases, you can avoid debt by managing your resources wisely. If you do incur debt, such as a reasonable amount in order to purchase a modest home or complete your education, work to repay it as quickly as possible and free yourself from bondage. When you have paid your debts and accumulated some savings, you will be prepared for financial storms that may come your way. You will have shelter for your family and peace in your heart” (True to the Faith, 2004, 48–49).
Related Topics
Scriptures
Scripture References
Scripture Study Resources
Messages from Church Leaders
Videos
“Becoming Provident Providers”
“He Polished My Toe”
“Teachings of Heber J. Grant: The Lord’s Law of Financial Success”
“Principle 4: Manage Money”
Learning Resources
General Resources
“Welfare Principles and Leadership,” Handbook 2, 6
“Self Reliance: How to Live Below Your Means,” Latter-day Saints Channel
Church Magazines
“Provident Living Prepares Us for the Future,” Ensign, October 2012
“How We Broke the Chains of Debt,” Ensign, February 2011
“Managing Resources Wisely and Staying Out of Debt,” Ensign or Liahona, February 2010
“Happily Living within Our Means,” Ensign, January 2008
“Taming the Debt Dragon,” Ensign, October 2004
“Five Steps to Financial Well-Being,” Ensign, March 2004
“Escaping the Debt Trap,” Ensign, August 1996
In the News
“Tips for Living Providently during the Holidays,” Church News
“Our Path to Spiritual and Temporal Self-Reliance,” Church News