What the Bible Says About Finances in Marriage

Key Takeaways:

• Discuss finances openly and regularly.
• Prioritize giving as a spiritual act.
• Be wise and save for future needs.
• Avoid debt and live within means.
• Seek wisdom from God and others.

What does the Bible say about finances in marriage?

Money can either be a tool for unity or a wedge that drives a couple apart. The Bible offers practical, time-tested wisdom that addresses both the spiritual and practical aspects of financial management within marriage. For example, Proverbs 21:5 states, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” Here, we learn the value of intentional planning over impulsive financial decisions.

Yet, it goes beyond simple budgeting or saving advice. Financial unity involves mutual respect, shared goals, and placing God at the center of our decision-making. When we embrace biblical financial principles, we create a deeper sense of purpose and partnership. It's not just about paying bills or saving for retirement. It's about building a God-honoring legacy together.

And let's not forget that unresolved money issues create more than stress—they threaten trust and intimacy. That's why aligning our finances with God's will becomes crucial.

Why money matters in marriage

Why is money so central in a relationship? Because finances touch every area of our lives. Think about it: We make countless decisions each day that involve money. Where we live, what we eat, how we plan for the future—money is embedded in all of it.

Psychologically, financial stress can trigger our fight-or-flight response. When couples disagree about money, they often experience heightened emotions, leading to arguments or emotional withdrawal. Dr. John Gottman, a renowned relationship expert, even found that how couples discuss money significantly predicts their long-term happiness or conflict.

But here's the catch. Money is rarely just about dollars and cents. It's about values, trust, and communication. The Bible recognizes this and provides a solid framework to help us manage not just our resources but our emotional connections. In Matthew 6:21, Jesus says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” That verse gets to the core of why money matters: it reflects our priorities and what we hold dear.

So, if we want our marriage to thrive, we have to talk about money. Often. Openly. With grace and patience.

What is God's purpose for finances?

God's purpose for finances isn't just about our comfort or material success. No, it's much deeper. Wealth, from a biblical standpoint, serves as a resource for fulfilling God's will in our lives and in the world around us. In other words, money becomes a tool for stewardship, generosity, and blessing others.

Think about the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25. Each servant is entrusted with a certain amount, and they are held accountable for how they use it. The lesson? God wants us to manage our resources wisely, but not for selfish gain. He desires that we invest our time, energy, and finances in ways that reflect His kingdom priorities.

Let's face it: It's easy to get caught up in the world's idea of wealth—acquiring more, hoarding for safety, or using money to define our worth. But God calls us to a different standard. When we view money as a gift from God, our hearts and minds shift. We become more intentional, more grateful, and more willing to share.

And perhaps that's the ultimate purpose: to remind us that everything we have belongs to God, and He's given us the responsibility to manage it in ways that honor Him.

How should husband and wife handle finances biblically?

Financial harmony in marriage doesn't happen by accident. It requires intentional planning, open communication, and a willingness to prioritize God's principles over personal preferences. Many couples struggle with this, often feeling pulled in different directions. But God has provided a blueprint, a way to navigate the tricky waters of shared financial responsibility.

First, let's acknowledge that financial management can feel overwhelming. There's budgeting, saving, giving, and investing—all while making sure everyone's needs are met. Yet, when we invite God into our financial decisions, we experience peace and unity.

Prioritize Giving

Giving should be the foundation of our financial life. The Bible emphasizes generosity repeatedly. In Proverbs 3:9, we read, “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.” This verse teaches that we should prioritize giving back to God before anything else.

And let's be honest: Giving first isn't always easy. We worry about making ends meet, saving for the future, or even splurging on our desires. But there's a spiritual power in prioritizing generosity. Psychologists call this the “helper's high”—a burst of satisfaction and joy that comes from acts of giving. Even science supports that generous people tend to feel happier and more connected.

As a couple, we should discuss where and how to give. It's about partnering together to support causes or people we believe in, growing our faith, and being a blessing to others.

Save for the Future

Saving is another crucial biblical principle. In Proverbs 21:20, it says, “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” God calls us to prepare wisely for the future, not just live for the moment.

Creating an emergency fund, saving for retirement, and setting aside money for our children's education can seem daunting. But small, consistent steps can add up. The act of saving also builds trust within a marriage. It shows responsibility, foresight, and care for each other's well-being.

However, saving doesn't mean living in fear of not having enough. It's about balance. Saving with faith means planning while trusting God as our provider. As we work towards our financial goals, we also develop a deeper bond, leaning on each other and God for wisdom and strength.

Avoid Debt

Debt can be a heavy burden, and the Bible doesn't shy away from warning us about its dangers. Proverbs 22:7 puts it bluntly: “The borrower is slave to the lender.” It's a harsh reality, but one we have to face. Debt can feel like a trap, a relentless weight that steals our peace and freedom.

Living debt-free may seem unrealistic in today's world, but it's not impossible. It starts with a mindset shift. We have to ask ourselves, “Do we need to take on this debt, or is there another way?” By being intentional about our spending and distinguishing needs from wants, we can make strides toward a more financially secure future.

And if debt is already an issue, tackle it together. Create a repayment plan, celebrate small victories, and keep each other accountable. Remember, it's about making wise choices, one step at a time.

Communicate Openly

Honest and open communication is the backbone of financial unity. Yet, many couples struggle to have these conversations. Money talks can get emotional, fast. One partner might be a spender, the other a saver. One might value experiences, while the other focuses on long-term security.

Psychologists emphasize the importance of understanding each other's financial triggers. For instance, someone who grew up in a home with financial instability might have a heightened anxiety about money. Knowing where your partner's fears and habits come from can foster empathy and understanding.

Make it a habit to have regular financial check-ins. Discuss budgets, upcoming expenses, and any worries. And don't just talk; actively listen. When both partners feel heard and respected, it strengthens the marital bond.

Be Accountable

Accountability isn't just a buzzword—it's a necessity. In marriage, this means being transparent about your financial decisions and holding each other to shared goals. Think of it as a team effort. You're not adversaries; you're partners working toward the same vision.

For some couples, this could mean creating a system of checks and balances. Maybe it's reviewing each other's spending or agreeing on a certain amount either of you can spend without consulting the other. Find what works for you.

Accountability fosters trust. It sends the message, “I value our goals, and I'm committed to making them happen.” It's a commitment to shared financial stewardship, not just personal desires.

Seek Wisdom

None of us have all the answers, and that's okay. The Bible emphasizes the value of seeking wisdom. Proverbs 15:22 tells us, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Wise counsel can come from a variety of places: older, experienced couples, financial advisors, or mentors within your faith community.

Sometimes, pride gets in the way. We might think we can handle things on our own or fear appearing weak by asking for help. But seeking wisdom is a strength, not a weakness. It shows humility and a willingness to learn.

Also, never underestimate the power of prayer. Ask God for discernment and clarity when making financial decisions. Seek guidance and wisdom from Him, as He knows your needs better than anyone.

Praying for financial unity

Prayer is powerful. When finances become a source of tension, coming together in prayer can be a healing and unifying act. By praying together, you're inviting God into your financial struggles and trusting Him to guide your path.

Prayer doesn't have to be formal or perfect. It's about being real with God and with each other. Express your worries, your hopes, and your desire to steward His resources well. Praying together fosters vulnerability and reminds you that you're not just financial partners—you're spiritual partners.

As you pray for unity, ask for patience, wisdom, and grace. Trust that God is working, even when you don't see immediate results. And remember, you're not alone. Countless couples have faced the same struggles, and God's faithfulness has seen them through.

Let the Lord guide you financially

Money management in marriage isn't only about making smart decisions. It's also about trusting in God's provision and direction. When we let the Lord guide our finances, we acknowledge that He's the ultimate source of our wealth and security. We don't have to rely solely on our abilities or stress ourselves over every small detail. God cares about our needs, even the financial ones.

In Psalm 23:1, David says, “The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing.” This doesn't mean we'll always have abundance, but rather that God will provide for our needs in His perfect timing. Trusting God financially requires faith and patience—two qualities that, admittedly, aren't easy to develop. But it's in this place of trust that we often see God move in incredible ways.

So, what does it look like to let the Lord guide you? It might mean praying before major financial decisions, seeking His will before taking on a big investment, or simply asking for peace and wisdom when things feel uncertain. God's guidance may come through a Scripture verse, a sermon, or even a conversation with a trusted friend. He's always at work, and He longs to be part of every area of our marriage, including our finances.

I need rules and structures for our finances

Sometimes, what we need most is structure. Financial discipline doesn't come naturally to everyone. We may know the principles—save, give, budget—but without practical rules and a game plan, we end up falling short. Creating financial structures in marriage can feel restrictive at first, but they often lead to freedom and clarity.

Start with a budget. This doesn't have to be overly complicated. Write down your income, list your expenses, and assign every dollar a job. Many couples find that using a zero-based budget helps them stay on track. Dave Ramsey's methods emphasize this and have guided millions toward financial freedom. His books, such as “The Total Money Makeover,” provide simple yet effective rules to follow.

Another helpful structure is setting financial boundaries. For instance, agree on a spending threshold where purchases over a certain amount require both partners' consent. This not only keeps you both in check but encourages healthy communication and decision-making.

Accountability can also be a game changer. If you struggle with sticking to a plan, consider monthly finance meetings. Review your progress, celebrate your wins, and adjust where needed. The key is to stay flexible and work as a team. Financial structures are there to support your goals, not to make life rigid or miserable.

Recommended Resources

• The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey – Practical, no-nonsense advice for debt-free living and financial stability.
• Money and Marriage God's Way by Howard Dayton – A comprehensive guide to handling money biblically as a couple.
• Smart Money Smart Kids by Dave Ramsey and Rachel Cruze – Great for couples who want to set their children up for financial success.