50+ Bible Verses About Interest (And What They Mean)

Interest is a topic that pops up in many areas of life, and the Bible has plenty to say about it. This article brings together 50 verses that touch on interest, offering insights and guidance.

Whether you're curious about what the Bible says on lending, borrowing, or the ethics of interest, these verses provide a clear perspective. Each verse is a piece of the larger puzzle, helping to understand the biblical view on interest.

What Does the Bible Say About Interest

The Bible offers a rich tapestry of teachings on interest, lending, and financial wisdom. These verses provide a moral compass, guiding us to act with compassion and integrity in our financial dealings. They remind us that our actions should reflect our values, prioritizing kindness and community over personal gain.

One key theme is the call to lend without expecting interest, especially to those in need. Verses like Exodus 22:25 and Deuteronomy 23:19 emphasize that lending should come from a place of compassion, not profit. This approach fosters a sense of community and mutual support, encouraging us to help others without seeking personal gain.

Another important theme is the wisdom of financial prudence. Proverbs 21:5 and Luke 14:28-30 highlight the importance of careful planning and diligent effort. These verses remind us that thoughtful preparation and hard work lead to true and lasting success, urging us to be mindful stewards of our resources.

Generosity is also a recurring theme. Verses like Proverbs 11:24-25 and Luke 6:38 celebrate the blessings that come from giving freely. They encourage us to share what we have, knowing that acts of kindness create a ripple effect of goodness and abundance in our lives.

Lastly, the Bible warns against the dangers of greed and unethical gains. Proverbs 16:8 and 1 Timothy 6:10 caution us to seek integrity over wealth, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from living a life of honesty and faith. These teachings inspire us to prioritize what truly matters, fostering a life rich in purpose and love.

50 Bible Verses About Interest

10 Bible Verses on Interest and Usury

1) Exodus 22:25

If you lend money to any of My people who are poor among you, you shall not be like a moneylender to him; you shall not charge him interest.

Meaning: Lending to those in need should come from a place of compassion, not profit. It's a call to prioritize human dignity over financial gain, reminding us that generosity should be free from exploitation.

2) Leviticus 25:36

Take no usury or interest from him; but fear your God, that your brother may live with you.

Meaning: While the world often encourages us to seek profit, this verse reminds us to prioritize compassion and community. It's a call to support each other selflessly, ensuring everyone can thrive together.

3) Leviticus 25:37

You shall not lend him your money for usury, nor lend him your food at a profit.

Meaning: What if we viewed our resources as tools for uplifting others rather than means for personal gain? This verse challenges us to rethink how we use what we have, urging us to act with love and generosity.

4) Deuteronomy 23:19

You shall not charge interest to your brother—interest on money or food or anything that is lent out at interest.

Meaning: When you help someone close to you, let it be a gift, not a transaction. It's like offering a hand to lift someone up, not expecting anything in return but the joy of seeing them stand tall again.

5) Deuteronomy 23:20

To a foreigner you may charge interest, but to your brother you shall not charge interest, that the Lord your God may bless you in all to which you set your hand in the land which you are entering to possess.

Meaning: Helping those close to you without expecting anything in return can bring unexpected blessings. It's about fostering a community where support and kindness are the norms, enriching everyone's lives.

6) Nehemiah 5:7

After serious thought, I rebuked the nobles and rulers, and said to them, "Each of you is exacting usury from his brother." So I called a great assembly against them.

Meaning: What does it mean to stand up for justice, even when it's uncomfortable? Sometimes, true strength lies in challenging those in power to protect the vulnerable, showing that compassion can be a powerful force for change.

7) Nehemiah 5:10

I also, with my brethren and my servants, am lending them money and grain. Please, let us stop this usury!

Meaning: Lending a hand should be about lifting others up, not weighing them down. It's a call to act with integrity and kindness, ensuring our help truly helps.

8) Psalm 15:5

He who does not put out his money at usury, nor does he take a bribe against the innocent.

Meaning: Lending without expecting extra in return can feel like a breath of fresh air in a world driven by profit. It's like helping a friend move without asking for anything back, just the joy of seeing them settle into their new home.

9) Proverbs 28:8

One who increases his possessions by usury and extortion gathers it for him who will pity the poor.

Meaning: Wealth gained through unfair means often ends up benefiting those who are compassionate. It's a reminder that true prosperity comes from kindness and generosity, not exploitation.

10) Ezekiel 18:13

If he has exacted usury or taken increase—shall he then live? He shall not live! If he has done any of these abominations, he shall surely die; his blood shall be upon him.

Meaning: We often chase after gains without considering the cost to others. What if we paused to reflect on the true impact of our actions?

10 Bible Verses on Lending and Borrowing

11) Deuteronomy 15:7-8

If there is among you a poor man of your brethren, within any of the gates in your land which the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart nor shut your hand from your poor brother, but you shall open your hand wide to him and willingly lend him sufficient for his need, whatever he needs.

Meaning: Generosity is a timeless gift. It's about opening your heart and hand to those in need, creating a ripple of kindness that can change lives.

12) Deuteronomy 15:9

Beware lest there be a wicked thought in your heart, saying, "The seventh year, the year of release, is at hand," and your eye be evil against your poor brother and you give him nothing, and he cry out to the Lord against you, and it become sin among you.

Meaning: Sometimes, the true test of generosity is giving without hesitation, even when it feels inconvenient. It's about recognizing the urgency of compassion and acting on it immediately.

13) Deuteronomy 24:10-11

When you lend your brother anything, you shall not go into his house to get his pledge. You shall stand outside, and the man to whom you lend shall bring the pledge out to you.

Meaning: Respect and dignity are at the core of this verse, urging us to honor others' personal space and trust them to fulfill their commitments.

14) Psalm 37:21

The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous shows mercy and gives.

Meaning: Embrace the power of generosity and integrity in your daily life. It's about being someone who not only fulfills their promises but also goes above and beyond to help others.

15) Proverbs 19:17

He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord, and He will pay back what he has given.

Meaning: In moments of struggle, remember that acts of kindness are never overlooked. It's a gentle reminder that your compassion is seen and valued, bringing comfort and hope.

16) Proverbs 22:7

The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.

Meaning: The verse paints a vivid picture of the power dynamics in financial relationships, urging us to seek freedom and wisdom in our dealings. It's a gentle reminder of the importance of financial independence and the beauty of living without the weight of debt.

17) Proverbs 22:26-27

Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge, one of those who is surety for debts; if you have nothing with which to pay, why should he take away your bed from under you?

Meaning: It's easy to feel pressured into commitments, but this verse reminds us to be cautious. Sometimes, protecting your peace means saying no to obligations that could leave you vulnerable.

18) Matthew 5:42

Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away.

Meaning: In the dance of life, let your heart lead with generosity. When you open your hands to others, you create a circle of kindness that comes back to you in beautiful ways.

19) Luke 6:34-35

And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil.

Meaning: Take a moment to consider the power of selfless giving. When you extend kindness without expecting anything in return, you open the door to profound blessings and a deeper connection with the divine.

20) Romans 13:8

Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.

Meaning: Let love be the driving force in your interactions, creating a ripple effect of kindness and understanding that fulfills a higher purpose.

10 Bible Verses on Wealth and Generosity

21) Proverbs 3:9-10

Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.

Meaning: When you prioritize giving and gratitude, you open the door to abundance and blessings. It's a reminder that generosity and faith can lead to a life overflowing with goodness.

22) Proverbs 11:24-25

There is one who scatters, yet increases more; and there is one who withholds more than is right, but it leads to poverty. The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.

Meaning: Generosity has a way of coming back to you, often in unexpected and beautiful ways. It's a gentle reminder that sharing what you have can lead to a richer, more fulfilling life.

23) Proverbs 22:9

He who has a generous eye will be blessed, for he gives of his bread to the poor.

Meaning: Sometimes, the smallest acts of kindness can spark the greatest blessings. When you share what you have, you set in motion a cycle of generosity that enriches both your life and the lives of others.

24) Malachi 3:10

Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in My house, and try Me now in this, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it.

Meaning: God's promises are unwavering and generous. Trusting Him with what you have can lead to unimaginable blessings, filling your life with abundance beyond measure.

25) Matthew 6:19-21

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Meaning: What if you focused on what truly lasts? Let your actions today reflect the values that matter most to you, creating a legacy that endures beyond material wealth.

26) Luke 6:38

Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.

Meaning: There's a beautiful certainty in God's promises. When you give generously, you can trust that blessings will flow back to you abundantly, creating a cycle of kindness and grace.

27) Acts 20:35

I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'

Meaning: In a world that often values getting over giving, this verse flips the script. It invites us to find deeper joy and fulfillment in supporting others, revealing a profound truth about the nature of generosity.

28) 2 Corinthians 9:6-7

But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.

Meaning: In the hustle and bustle of life, where stress often overshadows joy, this verse reminds us that true happiness comes from giving freely and joyfully. It's like the warmth you feel when you help a friend in need, knowing that your kindness can light up even the darkest days.

29) 1 Timothy 6:17-19

Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

Meaning: What if you saw your wealth as a tool for doing good and sharing joy? Embrace the opportunity to build a legacy of generosity and kindness, trusting that true riches come from a life well-lived.

30) Hebrews 13:16

But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Meaning: What if your small acts of kindness are seen and cherished by God? Let this be a gentle reminder that your generosity and goodness truly matter, bringing joy to the heart of the divine.

10 Bible Verses on Financial Wisdom

31) Proverbs 6:6-8

Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, which, having no captain, overseer or ruler, provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest.

Meaning: The word "wise" stands out, urging us to learn from the ant's diligence. It's like how a small act of preparation today can save you from a big headache tomorrow, just like packing an umbrella on a cloudy day.

32) Proverbs 13:11

Wealth gained by dishonesty will be diminished, but he who gathers by labor will increase.

Meaning: In the midst of life's chaos, remember that honest efforts are always valued. Trust in God's promise that your hard work will lead to true and lasting blessings.

33) Proverbs 21:5

The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, but those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty.

Meaning: There's hope in knowing that steady, thoughtful effort brings true success. In a world that often glorifies quick wins, this verse reminds us that patience and diligence are the keys to lasting abundance.

34) Proverbs 21:20

There is desirable treasure, and oil in the dwelling of the wise, but a foolish man squanders it.

Meaning: What if today you chose to cherish and wisely manage what you have? It's a gentle nudge to see the value in your resources and use them thoughtfully, creating a foundation for a fulfilling life.

35) Proverbs 27:23-24

Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, and attend to your herds; for riches are not forever, nor does a crown endure to all generations.

Meaning: The certainty of this verse's promise is undeniable. Its vivid language beautifully captures the importance of mindful stewardship, reminding us that true wealth lies in careful attention and lasting care.

36) Ecclesiastes 11:2

Give a serving to seven, and also to eight, for you do not know what evil will be on the earth.

Meaning: Life's unpredictability calls for generosity and preparedness. Sharing what you have can create a safety net for yourself and others, embodying the spirit of community and resilience.

37) Matthew 25:14-30

For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents. And likewise he who had received two gained two more also. But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord’s money. After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them. So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, ‘Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.’ His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ He also who had received two talents came and said, ‘Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.’ His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ Then he who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.’ But his lord answered and said to him, ‘You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest. Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents. For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Meaning: Embrace the gifts and opportunities you have, using them wisely and faithfully. It's a call to live with purpose and diligence, knowing that your efforts matter and can lead to greater blessings.

38) Luke 14:28-30

For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it—lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, 'This man began to build and was not able to finish.'

Meaning: There's a gentle reminder here of the importance of planning and foresight. It's like a warm embrace, reassuring you that thoughtful preparation is a form of wisdom and care.

39) Luke 16:10-11

He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?

Meaning: God's trust in us grows with our faithfulness in small things, revealing His desire for us to be stewards of greater blessings. It's an invitation to see every moment as an opportunity to honor Him and deepen our faith.

40) 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.

Meaning: In moments of uncertainty, this verse offers a comforting reminder that seeking wisdom from God can guide you through. It's like a gentle nudge, encouraging you to look beyond your current struggles and trust in the greater plan ahead.

10 Bible Verses on Ethical Investments

41) Proverbs 16:8

Better is a little with righteousness, than vast revenues without justice.

Meaning: The beauty of living with integrity is that it brings a sense of peace and fulfillment that wealth alone cannot provide. It's a gentle reminder that true success is measured by the goodness in our hearts, not the size of our bank accounts.

42) Proverbs 28:20

A faithful man will abound with blessings, but he who hastens to be rich will not go unpunished.

Meaning: In our rush to achieve success, we often forget that true blessings come from steadfastness and integrity. It's a timeless reminder that patience and faithfulness are the keys to a life filled with genuine rewards.

43) Isaiah 32:8

But a generous man devises generous things, and by generosity he shall stand.

Meaning: Generosity has a way of grounding us, providing a solid foundation in life. Trust in the power of giving, knowing that it brings stability and blessings.

44) Jeremiah 17:11

As a partridge that broods but does not hatch, so is he who gets riches, but not by right; it will leave him in the midst of his days, and at his end he will be a fool.

Meaning: Consider the value of integrity in your pursuits. True fulfillment comes from honest efforts, not shortcuts, leading to a life of lasting peace and respect.

45) Matthew 6:24

No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.

Meaning: The wisdom here is timeless: let your heart be fully devoted to what truly matters. Embrace the freedom that comes from choosing a path of faith and integrity.

46) Matthew 19:21

If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.

Meaning: Faith can lead to profound security and peace. Trusting in God's guidance and love brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends material wealth.

47) Luke 12:33-34

Sell what you have and give alms; provide yourselves money bags which do not grow old, a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches nor moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Meaning: God's presence brings comfort and guidance in every situation. This verse encourages us to shift our focus from material wealth to spiritual richness, reminding us that true value lies in what we give and where we place our hearts.

48) 1 Corinthians 10:31

Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Meaning: Embrace the joy and beauty in every moment, knowing that your actions can reflect a higher purpose. It's about finding fulfillment in the everyday, making each task a celebration of faith and love.

49) 1 Timothy 6:10

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

Meaning: Embrace the truth that love, faith, and hope are more than just ideas—they require action. Let this verse inspire you to prioritize what truly matters, living a life filled with purpose and integrity.

50) James 5:1-3

Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have heaped up treasure in the last days.

Meaning: Feeling overwhelmed by the pursuit of wealth? This verse gently reminds us that true value lies beyond material possessions, urging us to seek deeper, lasting fulfillment.

How to Apply These Bible Verses About Interest

Applying the Bible's teachings on interest to daily life can bring a sense of purpose and integrity to your financial decisions. These principles encourage us to act with compassion and wisdom, fostering a community of support and kindness.

• Practice generosity by lending without expecting anything in return. For example, if a friend needs help, offer it freely without thinking about what you might get back.
• Be mindful of your financial decisions. Plan and save wisely, just like the ant in Proverbs 6:6-8. This can mean setting aside a portion of your income for future needs.
• Engage in community support. Volunteer your time or resources to help those in need, reflecting the spirit of Deuteronomy 15:7-8.
• Pray for wisdom in your financial dealings. Ask God to guide you in making decisions that align with His teachings, as suggested in James 1:5.
• Foster a spirit of contentment. Focus on what you have rather than what you lack, inspired by Proverbs 16:8.

Remember, God is with you in every step you take. Trust in His guidance and let your faith shape your actions. For more prayers and Bible verses, visit PrayersFor or try our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.