September 5: Money Owed, Faced Honestly
The pile of old debts is still there. Credit cards. Money borrowed from family. A friend you owe from years ago. Collection letters you never opened. How do you make amends when you can’t pay it all?
“Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.”
Paul says to give everyone what you owe them. Owe no one anything, except to love one another. He’s realistic about debt. He’s also clear that paying what you owe is part of loving people well.
Money amends can feel overwhelming. You may owe more than you could pay in years. That can make you want to avoid the whole thing. But avoidance was the old way. It’s how the pile got so big.
Here’s how many people approach it. First, talk it over with a sponsor or pastor before you contact anyone. Money amends affect your family’s finances, so they deserve careful planning. Someone with experience can help you see what’s wise.
Second, get honest about the numbers. Open the letters. Make a list of who you owe and how much. That alone takes courage.
Third, go to the people you owe and tell them the truth. Tell them what you can pay and when. Don’t promise more than you can deliver. A small payment you keep making is better than a big promise you break.
Fourth, don’t dodge. Return calls. Answer letters. People are often more patient than you’d expect when you stop hiding and start being honest.
Remember, you may not be able to pay everything right away. That’s okay. What matters is that you’re willing, honest and steady. Some money amends take years. Each payment is an amends in itself.
And Paul’s last line matters. The only debt you never finish paying is love. That’s one you can start on today, whatever your bank balance.
One thing today
Open one piece of mail about money you’ve been avoiding. Write down the amount. Then schedule a time to go over your debt list with your sponsor or pastor.
A prayer
Lord, I owe more than I can pay right now. Give me the courage to face it honestly. Help me pay what I can, keep my word, and never dodge again. And help me keep paying the debt of love. Amen.
Money amends are part of Step Nine. Get counsel first.
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