Although you say you want to have a good marriage, you need to pause long enough to ask yourself: Am I willing to work for it? In other words, when it comes to challenging issues (e.g., money), are you willing to enter into a partnership here? If so, have the two of you spent any time praying about any issues with money in marriage?
As you’re praying about your finances together, you’ll see that there are some biblical standards that we must submit to here. It’s essential to take a look at each of them and how they apply to our lives.
Maintain a Joint Bank Account
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. – Matthew 6:33
Although it’s tempting to maintain separate bank accounts, it isn’t advisable. When you have a joint account, you’re transparent regarding how money is spent. If you’re afraid to let your spouse see where the money you’re spending goes, you should pray about the situation. The two of you are partners, and there shouldn’t be a “his and mine” mentality as this can result in issues with money in marriage.
Discuss Money With Your Spouse
Before getting married, you should discuss the topic of finances. This discussion should include things like tithing, saving, and priorities. It’s also essential to create a set of “checks and balances” for accountability. For instance, if one of you plans to spend over $100 on a purchase, it’s a good idea to ensure your spouse agrees first so you can avoid issues with money in marriage.
Maintain Good Records Regarding Finances
One of the best ways to avoid issues with money in marriage is to keep good records of what you’ve money. It doesn’t matter who’s responsible for managing the checkbook. Both partners should know where vital financial records are kept and how to understand them. It’s a good idea to take a course, watch videos, or read a book together about this topic.
Create a Budget Together
When you sit down with your spouse to look at how you’re spending money, you’ll be able to find ways to budget better with the future in mind. Not only should you create a budget for your family, but you should review it together once a month to ensure you’re staying on track. When you find areas where you’re overspending, it’s time to discuss how you can adjust the budget or save more money in this area.
A Word About Tithing
Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts. And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the Lord of hosts. – Malachi 3:8-12
As Christians, we’re commanded to give the first tenth of our income to God. Honoring this commandment should be our priority. Therefore, we need to remember to include it in our budget.
Working Through Issues with Money in Marriage
Avoiding issues with money in marriage shouldn’t be difficult for Christians. There are specific guidelines God has shown us in His Word. He’s created them for our good. Submitting ourselves to these guidelines shouldn’t be difficult once we realize that they’ll improve our lives. Which of these issues do you and your spouse need to address today?
