Debt - the downward spiral

Published: January 27th, 2006

For most of us, Christmas is a dim and distant memory. The decorations are back in the loft, the unwanted pressies on e-bay, we're making plans for our summer holidays or hitting the sales.
 
 
For many others though this is a time of dread, the credit card bills have started arriving, they are getting deeper and deeper into the downward spiral of debt.
 
The subject of debt is close to my heart for a number of reasons. At present I'm involved with a charity based in my home town of Bradford, UK, which aims to release people from debt and poverty through debt counselling, practical services and financial education.
 
In the short time I've been a volunteer with them I've seen problems ranging from mothers going hungry in order to feed their kids, depression, stress, eviction, marital problems -even people on the brink of suicide.
 
As well as being a volunteer with this charity, Christians Against Poverty,  I am also a client myself.
 
I know first hand the terrible feeling of not having enough money to pay all your bills.
 
I have felt shame, stigma and complete feelings of helplessness.
 
My problems started when my ex-husband and I separated and he stopped paying maintenance.
 
WIth CAP's help I am gradually paying off my debts. They helped me work out a budget which I stick to rigidly, helped me work out how much a month to put aside for my priorities like my mortgage, utilities, etc, then worked out an affordable realistic amount to pay off my  debts, credit cards and the like, they then acted as middle man, negotiating these repayments with my creditors.
 
Why am I telling you all this? Well this is a website dedicated to prayer and I would like to ask you to pray for those who are affected by debt.
 
We need to pray that people are paid decent wages. 
We need to pray that legislation is changed and that banks treat people fairly and stop targeting the poorest in society.
We need to pray that schools start to educate children in matters of personal finance.
 
For more info on Christians Against Poverty and how you can support the work they do visit their website: www.capuk.org
 
"Speak up for all those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.
Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy" Proverbs 31 v 8-9
 
 
This article was written by Kate Kelly - the mother of 3 children Lewis, Laurence and Alice. She works for the West Yorkshire Police as  Radio Operator and is an active member of the Christian Police Association. Kate first heard about the 24-7 prayer movement when the Youth congregation of her church got involved and set up a 24-7 prayer room. She has a burning ambition to set up a 24-7 style prayer room in a Police Station! Watch this space!

 

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