Title: "Beware of the Trap: Free Isn’t Always Free."

**Scripture**: *Proverbs 22:7*

"The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender."

Today's world constantly hears about "free" money—whether it's government handouts, loans, or financial assistance programs. On the surface, it sounds like a blessing. Who wouldn't want a little extra cash to ease the burdens of life?

But there's a hidden cost, and Proverbs 22:7 warns us: "The borrower is slave to the lender." What looks like a gift can often turn into a trap—one that leads to dependence and control.

Governments, corporations, or systems that offer "free" money often do so with strings attached. When you accept the handout, you also accept the influence that comes with it. Slowly, bit by bit, you rely on someone else to provide for your needs. And before you know it, you're no longer free to choose. You become enslaved by the very thing that was meant to help you.

When examining history, it becomes evident that governments and authorities offering "free" assistance frequently utilize it to exert control over individuals. Rather than fostering self-reliance among citizens, these entities foster dependence, ultimately resulting in control. This highlights the risk of trusting human-created systems instead of relying on God as the ultimate provider.

**But here's the Good News**: God calls us to a life of freedom. He is our ultimate provider. Philippians 4:19 tells us, *"And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."* God is not a lender who puts you into bondage. He doesn't dangle help over your head, making you jump through hoops to get it. His provision is full of grace, leading to true freedom, not dependence on worldly systems.

Jesus said in John 8:36, "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."* Jesus wants us to live in freedom—freedom from sin, freedom from the world's control, and freedom from fear. That includes financial freedom, where we trust Him for our needs and live responsibly, not relying on "free" money that leads to dependence and control.

So how do we avoid the trap of "free money"?

1. **Trust God as your provider**: Don't look to human systems to meet your needs. God is the ultimate source of provision, and He promises to care for His children.

2. **Be wise with your finances**: Live within your means, work diligently, and avoid debt that leads to bondage. Proverbs 6:6-8 reminds us to be like the ant—who works hard and prepares for the future.

3. **Give generously and steward what God gives you**: God blesses us in return as we give to others. Luke 6:38 says, *"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap."* Generosity brings blessing, breaking the hold of greed and dependence on artificial systems.

**Altar Call:**

Today, I want to challenge you—where is your trust? Are you depending on "free" money or on God's provision? If you've been caught in the trap of dependence, I invite you to turn to God, the One who sets you free.

If you're ready to put your trust fully in Him and live in His freedom, let's pray together:

"Lord Jesus, I confess I've been relying on the wrong things to meet my needs. I ask You to forgive me for trusting man instead of You. I believe You are my provider, and I commit to trusting You for all my needs. Set me free from dependence on anything but You, and help me live in the freedom You promise. Amen."

If you prayed that prayer, know this: You're not a slave to the world's systems anymore. Jesus has set you free. Now go and live in that freedom!