Finances has its perfection in marriage


Marriage is a partnership between two different humans from different families that are wired differently in their thought and thinking process. Each spouse brings different experiences, different values and different expectations from the past. So when we talk about finance in marriages, one must understand how a spouse thinks and reacts, which is consistent with their past. This will form whom they really are – a spender or a saver and thus perfection in finances will yield great fruit.

Communication is the most important act that a couple can do in marriage. It must be open and honest. Communication about finances is vital in marital relationships. It cannot be overlooked. An honest discussion on finances should bring understanding for a common vision. With a common financial vision, the identity of a spender or saver will compensate each spouse in the marriage. Once the spouses identify themselves, life in the area of finances will be less challenging thus creating a balance of perfection. Let’s face it, finance is not the major divide for marriages; it’s communication. A lack of communication on a financial vision can cause a divide in the relationship; therefore, each spouse will spend or save without the other being aware. This will cause strife, argument and discomfort. It becomes true what the scripture says in Mark 3:25, if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. Let’s look at some common differences for couples that can create this type of perfection in marriage.

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Spender & Saver

When the spouses have identified themselves as a spender and saver, conflict will happen but discussion will be fruitful and refreshing. From that discussion, a financial plan can be created. Both spouses can have what they want as long as it’s consistent with the overall plan. Each person must have the leeway to feel comfortable about who they are. First, agree on the financial goal and, secondly, come up with a plan on how each can be satisfied. The wife may want to eat out every day for lunch while the husband brings his lunch from home. Create a budget that will support both visions but also give and take so everyone is satisfied. Another example is that the husband may want a 60” TV, but the budget can’t support it. So the husband will need to wait for the wife (saver) to have that expense planned. Planned expenses will control unnecessary purchases. This is usually beneficial for major purchases and activities and eliminates stress and arguments in the home.

Saver & Saver

When both spouses are savers, they may feel like they are doing a great thing but if they have no vision for their finances, their money will not work for them. In their minds, they could live on beans and rice every day but the fun and creativity in their marriage can become stale. At some point, one of them will feel resentment for not having more fun in the marriage. If your relationship is like this, agree on a common vision. It’s ok to spend but spend in moderation with a purpose. Make sure your money is working for you. The most important point is to have a vision ensuring debt is eliminated and having a good investment strategy. Allow your resources to change the lives of others and help those in need.

Spender & Spender

When both spouses are spenders, money could flow out of the house like water if not careful. With a lack of communication, both will continue to spend at the same time with no regard for a budget. Accountability becomes vital so a support system is needed. Understand the purpose with your money. Get a budget and stick to it. Don’t be swayed by spontaneous purchases. If there is an urge to buy, stop and think of the impact that purchase will have on your own finances. Proverbs 10:22 says the blessing of the Lord, it maketh it rich, and he added no sorrow to with it. If it’s going to bring sorrow afterwards, leave it there. Run away! Excessive spending without a plan can become addictive and harmful not only to your marriage but to your future endeavors. Another helpful example is to write down all miscellaneous expenses in a small notebook for the next 30 days; total it up, and conclude what else could have been done with that money. Spend time on a weekly basis reviewing the budget with your mate; understand this is a business – your finances. It’s okay to have differences; work within who you are. Finances will always be a part of your life so remember these principles: communicate with your spouse, kept finances current, consider your witness to others (your marriage brings a spotlight), plan for the long haul and consider the legacy that the both of you are leaving. Remember, the two will become one. Don’t let your house become divided – that’s how perfection can be created. Make it a great day!