I receive many letters like yours, and if my mail is any indication, most people today have far too much debt and spend far too much time worrying about money. We’ve lost sight of the Bible’s admonition: “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have” (Hebrews 13:5).

You see, money and debt aren’t just practical problems; they’re spiritual problems as well. Behind them are deeper issues, including greed, pride, covetousness and materialism. We have made things and possessions our god, serving them and giving them first place in our lives. When we do, we not only end up in debt, but our souls are impoverished.

Jesus warned, “No servant can serve two masters. … You cannot serve both God and Money” (Luke 16:13). I pray that you will start again by turning your whole lives–including your money problems–over to Christ. God loves you, and He doesn’t want you trapped by debt.

Instead, He wants you to put Him first in your lives–and when you do, you will begin to see your problems in a new light. Yes, seek practical advice for the problems you face, and avoid bankruptcy if you possibly can. But most of all, get your priorities straight by giving your lives to Christ.