In our last few posts, we discussed the heart of money—stewardship and trust. But faith without works is dead (James 2:17). To get out of debt, you need a practical “method of attack.”

In the financial world, there are two primary “battles plans” for paying off debt: The Debt Snowball and The Debt Avalanche. Both are effective, but they appeal to different mindsets. Here is how to choose the one that honors your goals and your temperament.

Method 1: The Debt Snowball (Focus on Momentum)

The Snowball method is about behavioral change. You list your debts from the smallest balance to the largest balance, regardless of interest rates.

• The Action: Pay the minimum on everything except the smallest debt. Throw every extra dollar at that tiny balance until it’s gone.
• The “Win”: Once that small debt is paid, you take its payment and “roll” it into the next smallest debt.
• The Faith Connection: This method acknowledges that we are human and prone to discouragement. In the Bible, God often gave His people small victories to build their faith for bigger battles (like David defeating the lion and the bear before facing Goliath).
• Best for: People who need to see progress quickly to stay motivated.

Method 2: The Debt Avalanche (Focus on Math)

The Avalanche method is about mathematical efficiency. You list your debts from the highest interest rate to the lowest interest rate.

• The Action: Pay the minimum on everything except the debt with the highest APR (interest rate). Attack that one first.
• The “Win”: You save the maximum amount of money on interest charges over time.
• The Faith Connection: This is the “Stewardship of the Cent.” You are ensuring that as little of the Master’s money as possible is “wasted” on usury and interest payments. It requires the spiritual discipline of patience, as it may take longer to see the first debt disappear.
• Best for: Analytical thinkers who are bothered by high interest rates and don’t mind waiting for a “win.”

Comparing the Two Attacks

Which One Should You Choose?

The Bible tells us that “the plans of the diligent lead to profit” (Proverbs 21:5). Neither method is “more spiritual” than the other. The “right” method is simply the one you will actually stick to until the end.

• If you feel overwhelmed and defeated, choose the Snowball. You need the “David vs. Goliath” moment of crossing off a small bill to prove to yourself that victory is possible.
• If you are highly disciplined and want to be the most efficient steward of every penny, choose the Avalanche.

A Word of Caution: The “Hidden” Enemy

Regardless of the method you choose, you must stop borrowing. You cannot dig your way out of a hole if you are still digging the bottom deeper. Cut up the cards, lean on your emergency buffer, and trust God to provide for your needs without the help of a high-interest lender.