Dave Ramsey encourages pastors to lead people out of debt

A one-time real estate magnate whose bankruptcy preceded him becoming a popular finance advisor recently urged Southern Baptist pastors to lead people out of debt.

Dave Ramsey, whose syndicated radio program airs on more than 600 stations, told pastors at the Southern Baptist Convention in mid-June that many people they speak to on Sunday mornings lack the ability to handle money.

Baptist Press reported that Ramey said 70 percent of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck and another 16 percent are either bankrupt or on the verge of it.

“Quit preaching tithing lessons to broke people,” said the creator of Financial Peace University. “Let’s teach them how to get on a budget. . . . The natural byproduct of a Jesus lover when they have money is giving.