Sometimes those sessions brought healing, but other times the challenges were too much to overcome.

One of the biggest roadblocks I’ve seen is financial stress. When people are weighed down by financial burdens, it impacts every part of their lives: their faith, relationships, and ability to serve others.

The Impact of Financial Problems

Financial troubles often lead to:

• Stress and Anxiety
• Communication Breakdowns
• Erosion of Trust
• Loss of Intimacy
• Blame and Resentment
• Unmet Life Goals

Sometimes it’s overspending. Other times it’s a lack of budgeting knowledge or even life’s unexpected disasters. Whatever the cause, financial burdens can spiral into bigger issues, leaving families struggling and hurting.

A Solution with Biblical Roots

The Bible offers incredible wisdom about debt and finances. Too often we focus on the “PAY YOUR DEBTS”.  The Bible acknowledges the importance of paying debts when possible but also emphasizes mercy and forgiveness.

The Sabbatical Year and Debt Forgiveness

In the Old Testament, the Sabbatical Year, or the “Year of Release,” was a commandment to cancel debts every seven years:

Deuteronomy 15:1-2, “At the end of every seven years, you must cancel debts. This is how it is to be done: Every creditor shall cancel any loan they have made.…”

This practice ensured that individuals were not perpetually trapped in a cycle of debt. It served as a societal reset, promoting economic stability and equality. Modern law mirrors this concept by allowing individuals and businesses to discharge their debts under structured legal procedures.

The Year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25:8-13)

The Year of Jubilee, observed every 50 years, mandated the return of land to original owners and the release of indentured servants. This ensured that no family or individual faced generational poverty due to debt. The Jubilee reflects the Biblical values of mercy, fairness, and societal balance.

Compassion for the Poor and Indebted

Throughout the Bible, there is a consistent theme of compassion toward the poor and indebted:

• Matthew 6:12 – As Christians, we are taught to pray, “forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.”
• Proverbs 22:7 warns that “the borrower is slave to the lender,” emphasizing the need for fair treatment of debtors.
• Luke 7:42 – “When they had nothing with which to repay, he freely forgave them….”
• Exodus 22:25 – “If you lend money to any of my people with you who is poor, you shall not be like a moneylender to him, and you shall not exact interest from him….”

This idea of forgiveness is at the core of both Scripture and bankruptcy.

Bankruptcy as a Reflection of Christ’s Sacrifice

Bankruptcy is, in many ways, a precursor to Christ’s ultimate act of forgiveness. Just as bankruptcy forgives financial debts too large to repay, Jesus forgives the spiritual debt we could never repay. Through His sacrifice on the cross, we are given a fresh start.

Seek Wisdom in Bankruptcy Decisions

Ultimately, the Bible teaches us to seek God’s wisdom when making decisions about bankruptcy.

• James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”
• Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “Plans for good and not for evil. To give you a future and a hope.”
  

These teachings encourage a system where debt relief is not merely a financial act but a moral and societal obligation. The Bible consistently calls for compassion for the indebted.

God’s Way is Also in the US Constitution

The framers of the U.S. Constitution recognized the importance of debt relief and incorporated provisions to address it based on Scripture. Their ideas were influenced by their personal experiences with debtors’ prisons and the economic challenges of post-revolutionary America.

Article I, Section 8, Clause 4 – The U.S. Constitution explicitly grants Congress the power to establish uniform bankruptcy laws:

“The Congress shall have Power [to]… establish… uniform Laws on the subject of Bankruptcies throughout the United States.”

This clause reflects the framers’ commitment to ensuring economic fairness and preventing interstate conflicts over debt laws. By making bankruptcy a federal matter, the Constitution sought to create a uniform system that promoted commerce, protected creditors, and provided relief for debtors.

Framers’ Intent

During the Constitutional Convention, figures like Alexander Hamilton and James Madison emphasized the need for a national approach to bankruptcy through their personal experience. They sought to avoid the harsh debtors’ prisons of Europe and promote economic recovery. This aligned with the moral values found in the Bible, advocating for a system where debtors could find relief without perpetual punishment.

Bankruptcy and Economic Growth

The inclusion of bankruptcy in the Constitution wasn’t just about debt relief; it was also about fostering economic growth. The framers understood that a fair system of debt forgiveness could encourage entrepreneurship and innovation. Just as the Bible promoted societal resets, the Constitution envisioned bankruptcy as a way to reintegrate individuals into the economy.

The Constitution echoes these principles, granting Congress the power to establish fair bankruptcy laws. Figures like Alexander Hamilton saw bankruptcy as a way to promote growth and prevent undue hardship, aligning with biblical values of mercy and justice.

A Fresh Start

Even modern examples, like former and future President Donald Trump, show how bankruptcy can lead to renewal. President Trump has filed bankruptcy six times. While we don’t recommend multiple filings, a single bankruptcy can offer life-changing relief for those burdened by financial struggles.

Why Cameron Bankruptcy Law?

We’re a local family-owned firm with a heart for helping people. With the best Google reviews for bankruptcy, (over 110) in North Carolina and an “A+” rating from BBB, we’ve earned the trust of countless clients by treating them with respect, compassion, and integrity.

10 am – 10 pm, 7 days a week – (919) 627-7748

 Click here for a free, no-pressure consultation

Sometimes those sessions brought healing, but other times the challenges were too much to overcome.

One of the biggest roadblocks I’ve seen is financial stress. When people are weighed down by financial burdens, it impacts every part of their lives: their faith, relationships, and ability to serve others.

The Impact of Financial Problems

Financial troubles often lead to:

• Stress and Anxiety
• Communication Breakdowns
• Erosion of Trust
• Loss of Intimacy
• Blame and Resentment
• Unmet Life Goals

Sometimes it’s overspending. Other times it’s a lack of budgeting knowledge or even life’s unexpected disasters. Whatever the cause, financial burdens can spiral into bigger issues, leaving families struggling and hurting.

A Solution with Biblical Roots

The Bible offers incredible wisdom about debt and finances. Too often we focus on the “PAY YOUR DEBTS”.  The Bible acknowledges the importance of paying debts when possible but also emphasizes mercy and forgiveness.

The Sabbatical Year and Debt Forgiveness

In the Old Testament, the Sabbatical Year, or the “Year of Release,” was a commandment to cancel debts every seven years:

Deuteronomy 15:1-2, “At the end of every seven years, you must cancel debts. This is how it is to be done: Every creditor shall cancel any loan they have made.…”

This practice ensured that individuals were not perpetually trapped in a cycle of debt. It served as a societal reset, promoting economic stability and equality. Modern law mirrors this concept by allowing individuals and businesses to discharge their debts under structured legal procedures.

The Year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25:8-13)

The Year of Jubilee, observed every 50 years, mandated the return of land to original owners and the release of indentured servants. This ensured that no family or individual faced generational poverty due to debt. The Jubilee reflects the Biblical values of mercy, fairness, and societal balance.

Compassion for the Poor and Indebted

Throughout the Bible, there is a consistent theme of compassion toward the poor and indebted:

• Matthew 6:12 – As Christians, we are taught to pray, “forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.”
• Proverbs 22:7 warns that “the borrower is slave to the lender,” emphasizing the need for fair treatment of debtors.
• Luke 7:42 – “When they had nothing with which to repay, he freely forgave them….”
• Exodus 22:25 – “If you lend money to any of my people with you who is poor, you shall not be like a moneylender to him, and you shall not exact interest from him….”

This idea of forgiveness is at the core of both Scripture and bankruptcy.

Bankruptcy as a Reflection of Christ’s Sacrifice

Bankruptcy is, in many ways, a precursor to Christ’s ultimate act of forgiveness. Just as bankruptcy forgives financial debts too large to repay, Jesus forgives the spiritual debt we could never repay. Through His sacrifice on the cross, we are given a fresh start.

Seek Wisdom in Bankruptcy Decisions

Ultimately, the Bible teaches us to seek God’s wisdom when making decisions about bankruptcy.

• James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”
• Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “Plans for good and not for evil. To give you a future and a hope.”
  

These teachings encourage a system where debt relief is not merely a financial act but a moral and societal obligation. The Bible consistently calls for compassion for the indebted.

God’s Way is Also in the US Constitution

The framers of the U.S. Constitution recognized the importance of debt relief and incorporated provisions to address it based on Scripture. Their ideas were influenced by their personal experiences with debtors’ prisons and the economic challenges of post-revolutionary America.

Article I, Section 8, Clause 4 – The U.S. Constitution explicitly grants Congress the power to establish uniform bankruptcy laws:

“The Congress shall have Power [to]… establish… uniform Laws on the subject of Bankruptcies throughout the United States.”

This clause reflects the framers’ commitment to ensuring economic fairness and preventing interstate conflicts over debt laws. By making bankruptcy a federal matter, the Constitution sought to create a uniform system that promoted commerce, protected creditors, and provided relief for debtors.

Framers’ Intent

During the Constitutional Convention, figures like Alexander Hamilton and James Madison emphasized the need for a national approach to bankruptcy through their personal experience. They sought to avoid the harsh debtors’ prisons of Europe and promote economic recovery. This aligned with the moral values found in the Bible, advocating for a system where debtors could find relief without perpetual punishment.

Bankruptcy and Economic Growth

The inclusion of bankruptcy in the Constitution wasn’t just about debt relief; it was also about fostering economic growth. The framers understood that a fair system of debt forgiveness could encourage entrepreneurship and innovation. Just as the Bible promoted societal resets, the Constitution envisioned bankruptcy as a way to reintegrate individuals into the economy.

The Constitution echoes these principles, granting Congress the power to establish fair bankruptcy laws. Figures like Alexander Hamilton saw bankruptcy as a way to promote growth and prevent undue hardship, aligning with biblical values of mercy and justice.

A Fresh Start

Even modern examples, like former and future President Donald Trump, show how bankruptcy can lead to renewal. President Trump has filed bankruptcy six times. While we don’t recommend multiple filings, a single bankruptcy can offer life-changing relief for those burdened by financial struggles.

Why Cameron Bankruptcy Law?

We’re a local family-owned firm with a heart for helping people. With the best Google reviews for bankruptcy, (over 110) in North Carolina and an “A+” rating from BBB, we’ve earned the trust of countless clients by treating them with respect, compassion, and integrity.

10 am – 10 pm, 7 days a week – (919) 627-7748

 Click here for a free, no-pressure consultation

…they work differently and are suited for different financial situations. Let’s break down what they are, how they work, and the key differences.

What Is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is often referred to as a “liquidation” bankruptcy. It is designed for individuals who have limited income and cannot repay their debts.

Here’s how it works:

• Eligibility: To qualify for Chapter 7, you must pass a “means test,” which compares your income to the median income in your state. If your income is too high, you might not qualify.
• Liquidation Process: A court-appointed trustee may sell some of your non-exempt assets (like valuable property) to repay creditors. However, many basic assets, such as your home or car, may be protected by exemption laws.
• Debt Discharge: After the process is complete, most unsecured debts, like credit card bills and medical expenses, are wiped out. However, certain debts, such as student loans, child support, and recent taxes, usually cannot be discharged.

Chapter 7 typically takes a few months from start to finish and provides a relatively quick resolution to debt problems.

What Is Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is known as a “reorganization” bankruptcy. It’s designed for individuals with a regular income who can afford to repay some or all of their debts over time.

Here’s how it works:

• Eligibility: Chapter 13 is available to individuals with a regular income and unsecured debts below a certain threshold (as of 2024, about $2.75 million combined for unsecured and secured debts).
• Repayment Plan: Instead of liquidating assets, you create a repayment plan, usually lasting three to five years, to pay back creditors. The amount you pay depends on your income, expenses, and the types of debt you owe.
• Debt Adjustment: Once you complete the repayment plan, remaining eligible debts may be discharged.

Chapter 13 allows you to keep your property and catch up on missed payments, such as mortgage or car loans, making it a good choice for people trying to avoid foreclosure or repossession.

Key Differences Between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13

Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 depends on your financial situation. If you have little income and few assets, Chapter 7 may be the better option. On the other hand, if you have steady income and want to keep your home or car, Chapter 13 might be a better fit.

Bankruptcy is a serious financial decision with long-term consequences, including its impact on your credit score. It’s important to consult with a qualified bankruptcy attorney to understand your options and make the best choice for your situation.

Bankruptcy isn’t the end—it’s a chance for a new financial beginning. By understanding these two types, you’re already on the road to making informed decisions about your financial future.

10 am – 10 pm, 7 days a week – (919) 627-7748

 Click here for a free, no-pressure consultation

…they work differently and are suited for different financial situations. Let’s break down what they are, how they work, and the key differences.

What Is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is often referred to as a “liquidation” bankruptcy. It is designed for individuals who have limited income and cannot repay their debts.

Here’s how it works:

• Eligibility: To qualify for Chapter 7, you must pass a “means test,” which compares your income to the median income in your state. If your income is too high, you might not qualify.
• Liquidation Process: A court-appointed trustee may sell some of your non-exempt assets (like valuable property) to repay creditors. However, many basic assets, such as your home or car, may be protected by exemption laws.
• Debt Discharge: After the process is complete, most unsecured debts, like credit card bills and medical expenses, are wiped out. However, certain debts, such as student loans, child support, and recent taxes, usually cannot be discharged.

Chapter 7 typically takes a few months from start to finish and provides a relatively quick resolution to debt problems.

What Is Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is known as a “reorganization” bankruptcy. It’s designed for individuals with a regular income who can afford to repay some or all of their debts over time.

Here’s how it works:

• Eligibility: Chapter 13 is available to individuals with a regular income and unsecured debts below a certain threshold (as of 2024, about $2.75 million combined for unsecured and secured debts).
• Repayment Plan: Instead of liquidating assets, you create a repayment plan, usually lasting three to five years, to pay back creditors. The amount you pay depends on your income, expenses, and the types of debt you owe.
• Debt Adjustment: Once you complete the repayment plan, remaining eligible debts may be discharged.

Chapter 13 allows you to keep your property and catch up on missed payments, such as mortgage or car loans, making it a good choice for people trying to avoid foreclosure or repossession.

Key Differences Between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13

Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 depends on your financial situation. If you have little income and few assets, Chapter 7 may be the better option. On the other hand, if you have steady income and want to keep your home or car, Chapter 13 might be a better fit.

Bankruptcy is a serious financial decision with long-term consequences, including its impact on your credit score. It’s important to consult with a qualified bankruptcy attorney to understand your options and make the best choice for your situation.

Bankruptcy isn’t the end—it’s a chance for a new financial beginning. By understanding these two types, you’re already on the road to making informed decisions about your financial future.

10 am – 10 pm, 7 days a week – (919) 627-7748

 Click here for a free, no-pressure consultation