Lending Money as a Spiritual Agreement

1. Lending Money as a Spiritual Agreement

• Lending is presented as more than a financial transaction; it is described as a "spiritual agreement" or a covenant.

• Lending links the lender to the borrower's choices, character, habits, and even spiritual state.

• The lender's peace and household can become affected by the borrower's decisions and consequences.

• The act of lending is not only about help but about sharing outcomes and destinies, especially in the context of personal relationships.

2. Biblical Foundations and Scriptures Referenced

• The message draws heavily on Proverbs, particularly:

• Proverbs 6: Warns against becoming "surety" for someone, equating this with tying one's fate and finances to the other’s destiny.

• Proverbs 13:20: "He who walks with the wise will be wise, but a companion of fools shall be destroyed," interpreted as extending to financial companionship.

• Lending to those who are irresponsible, rebellious, or dishonorable ties the lender's resources to the borrower’s spiritual and practical state.

3. Consequences of Lending Without Discernment

• Lending to someone with poor judgment or in spiritual turmoil can lead to personal disturbances, such as loss of peace, financial instability, and emotional or spiritual heaviness.

• Proverbs 6:2 emphasizes being "snared with the words of thy mouth," signifying the binding nature of agreements and their repercussions.

4. Emphasis on Discretion and Wisdom

• Proverbs chapters 1–5 underscore the importance of discretion, which involves:

• Not letting compassion override wisdom

• Not letting familiarity override discernment

• Not letting emotions override obedience

• Discretion is portrayed as a key kingdom value and protective principle, not just a religious or superficial rule.

Additional Insights

• Set Apart V emphasizes that this perspective is about "kingdom awareness" and financial discernment, not mere "surface level church talk."

• There is a stress on understanding covenant principles, spiritual transfer, and the weight of agreements in a spiritual context.