Bible Study

Title: Marriage and Finances
Date: Aug 18, 2005

Scripture: Philippians 4:19, Matthew 6:33, Psalm 24:1, Proverbs 3:9, Ephesians 5:33

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Most husband-wife disagreements about spending money are not so much a financial problem as a spiritual issue. The rule of thumb for Christians is always: Seek God's guidance in how He intends your family to use their finances.

This discovery will happen best in the context of a healthy marriage:

• Mutual respect
• Good communication
• Spiritual unity

What Does God Say?

For a Christian, the Bible shapes our perspective on material things. Everything in our lives comes from God, belongs to God and is to be used according to His will.

"The earth is the LORD's, and all its fullness,
The world and those who dwell therein" (Psalm 24:1, NKJV).

"Honor the LORD with your wealth,
with the firstfruits of all your crops" (Proverbs 3:9, NIV).

A godly marriage is based on mutual love and respect.

"Let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband" (Ephesians 5:33, ESV).

My Thoughts

The first step in resolving the issue is to pray and ask for God's help and wisdom. Then set aside a time when you can talk through this situation with your spouse. Go over the above scriptures and discuss the principles they teach. Write out in your own words how they illustrate:

• God's sovereignty (power over all things) and purpose
• Attitudes in marriage that honor the Lord

Then make a plan--but just do "small steps" at first. Lastly, pray together, and ask God to make this a time of growth for both of you as a couple and in your relationship with Him based on His Word.

My Part

As you map out your plan, look at the following statements as examples of the types of things to include:

• We are both committed to God's way of handling our finances and possessions.
• We covenant together to never make a major purchase (negotiate "major") without first discussing, praying and being in agreement.
• We will make a simple and flexible budget that will help us project and monitor expenses.
• We pledge to celebrate each step and to thank God for His help and guidance.

"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you" (Matthew 6:33, ESV).

"And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19, ESV).

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