Yes, debt can be very dangerous, and I hope others will learn from your example. And I hope you’ll learn from your experience as well, and you won’t keep living the way you’ve been living and getting deeper and deeper in debt. People often find that shopping or spending money gives them pleasure, even if they can’t afford it, simply because it helps them escape (at least temporarily) from the problems they’re facing. But take steps to keep this from happening to you.

Not only would it be unwise to keep on the same road you’ve been on, but it would be a sin in the eyes of God. Instead of being the master of your money, you’ve become its slaves — and that is wrong. As the Bible says, “A man is a slave to whatever has mastered him” (2 Peter 2:19).

Accept the fact that you can’t do everything you once did, even if it hurts your pride or tarnishes your image with others. Then draw up a realistic budget — and stick to it. Draw up a plan also to repay your debts, even if it seems impossible.

Most of all, turn to Christ and ask Him to become the center and foundation of your lives — including your finances. In addition, don’t stop trying to find work — but in the meantime make the most of the time God has given you — time to help others, and time to grow closer to God.