Does filing bankruptcy destroy my credit for the rest of my life?
No, bankruptcy will not destroy your credit forever. The fact that you filed a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy will usually remain on your credit for up to 10 years after you file.
However, this does not mean that you will not be extended credit during this time. You will likely receive credit card offers for small credit amounts soon after you are discharged from a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. You will also likely receive offers for used and new cars after being discharged from a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. You may be able to get new mortgage as soon as a couple years after bankruptcy.
You should be careful and smart to reestablish good credit worthiness after bankruptcy.