Proverbs - Co-signing

Proverbs 11:15

 He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it:

 and he that hateth suretiship is sure.

                    Surety in the bible is kind of like co-signing or being the collateral for another person.  We must be very cautious about this.  When we lend to anyone the bible says to lend without expecting repayment.  This means that if we commit to lend someone money we must be willing to not get paid.  We should not lend if we are not willing to take a loss.  If we commit ourselves as collateral for someone we have to be willing to cover if they fail to pay.  The best bet is not to cosign according to this verse so that others’ financial decisions will not have to interfere with relationships and trust.  You have the right to say no to this and save a relationship.  If you pray and sense you are to come alongside someone in this manner, be willing to take the loss of the money and keep the friendship if, indeed, they fail to pay.  Use wisdom.