Proverbs 11:15 He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it: and he that hates suretiship is sure.
‘Surety’ – Pledging to stand good for anyone tends to relieve the borrower of the responsibility he should feel, and often lowers the respect of a co-signer in the sight of the one he helps.
Five facts about surety: The command against surety (22:26). The command to get out of surety as quickly as possible (6:1-5). Surety is a sign of a lack of understanding (17:18). Suffering and disappointment are what is promised in surety (11:15). To refrain from surety is the only safe way (11:15).
A man who quickly concludes a contract and becomes surety in the presence of a friend proves he is void of understanding (17:18). Do not be quick to shake hands (make contracts and give promises) or co-sign for the debts of others. If you have nothing to pay, why lose the necessities of life by pledging them as security (22:26-27)?
Living the Word 