By bro Lee Tian Seng
Money matters are one of the most common causes of conflict in marriage. Couples need to establish a common understanding of how money should be spent and have shared goals regarding finances.
First and foremost, they need to spend within their means. This discipline is important as money, if not wisely used, can lead to undue stress in the family such as, when there is not enough money left to pay rent or utility bills or chil-dren’s school fees. To spend wisely, it is highly recommended that couples work out a budget and follow it strictly.
Next, there is a tendency for one to buy things impulsively and overspend. We are tempted to buy things we love. For example, we may like to buy branded clothing and shoes. If our habit is to buy whenever we see something we like, then it can be very costly and we may end up having insufficient funds for essential things in the family. We need to pray and practise self-control in how we spend money, lest we become covetous.
Luke 12:15 - And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
Neither should we, as Christians, love the world and try to live like those who are wealthy when we cannot afford to. The Bible teaches us to be contented with what we have.
1 John 2:15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.
1 Timothy 6:6 Now godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is cer-tain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.
Finally, couples need to be careful about taking a loan. They should not take a loan unless they are able to repay the debt. Instead of taking a loan, it is wiser for one to save up for big purchases. If we have a loan, we should honour and pay our debts, as Christians are to be honourable and righteous.
2 Corinthians 8:21 - Providing honorable things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.
Psalm 37:21 - The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous shows mercy and gives.
If couples learn to be content in living a simple life and putting their trust in God, they do not need to worry about not having enough money or fight over money. God will take care of the family if we seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.
Matthew 6:31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.