An Ominous Milestone

America has reached a once-unimaginable milestone: “The United States’ gross national debt surpassed $40 trillion… meaning the nation’s financial hole has doubled in size in less than a decade” (ABC News, August 20, 2026). Such debt has great potential to negatively impact businesses and individuals alike—as well as the nation’s standing in the world.

To be sure, the U.S. national debt “enables the federal government to pay for important programs and services for the American public” (Treasury.gov). “Fiscal stimulus funded by debt is often used as a policy tool during economic downturns” (Mercatus.org, January 7, 2026). However, the interest payment on that debt, $1 trillion per year, is the third-largest federal expense, behind only Social Security and Medicare (National Review, August 21, 2026). The difference is that while Social Security and Medicare provide direct benefits to Americans, debt that grows faster than the economy is not sustainable and is destructive to businesses and families (US Government Accountability Office).

Concerning the debt of nations and individuals alike, Scripture is unmistakable: Debt destroys the strength and independence of the borrower (Proverbs 22:7) and represents a curse upon nations whom God seeks to bless (Deuteronomy 28:43–44). Debt is a potential source of dangerous insecurity (Proverbs 22:26–27) and often results from living beyond one’s means—a danger for both nations and individuals (Hebrews 13:5). We don’t have to follow the ways of our free-spending governments! If you are interested in what God’s word has to say about personal finances, study our free resource God’s People Tithe!