•Financial problems are a major source of conflict within marriage and can even be the leading cause of divorce.
• It is vital that Christian couples learn how to be good stewards of the financial resources God has entrusted to them.
• There are seven keys to understand and apply that will lead to a happier marriage and greater financial health: Peacemaker, Prosperity, Purpose, Philosophy, Personality, Plan, and Process.
• Regardless of where you are now financially, there is hope ahead.
Summary
Money is one of the most common sources of tension in marriages. In his book, Money Problems and Marriage Solutions, authors Chuck & Ann Bentley dive into how couples can navigate the often tricky topic of money without it becoming a point of contention between them. This book provides insight into how to have meaningful conversations about financial goals and tackles some of the most common misconceptions surrounding money and marriage. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights from this book!
The Basics of Communication
Bentley begins by emphasizing that communication is key when discussing finances. He encourages couples to create an environment that is open and non-judgmental so that both partners feel heard; Bentley calls this being a “peacemaker.” This could include setting time aside to peacefully and honestly discuss their respective financial ambitions, plans for saving or investing, budgeting goals, etc. This way, couples can stay up-to-date with each other financially while keeping any potential disagreements at bay.
Key Ideas
Bentley outlines a few steps to help couples plan their financial futures together and make the case that marriage can aid in financial peace and goals. They suggest creating unity in marriage as the most important ambition within the marriage. This can take a lot of different forms, including a joint budget that accounts for all income sources and expenses such as bills, groceries, entertainment costs, etc. People often talk about money and marriage as if marriage is the problem of money issues. Still, marriage can be the solution, noting that married couples can earn and save more when working together in unity.
Bentley touches on how faith plays an important role in managing money within a marriage context. They encourage couples not just to think about their own needs but put God first and make sure they live by principles that honor God with finances—encompassing income, giving, and saving money. Overall, to be financially healthy, couples need to have a good plan and process in place which is based on Scripture and its principles.
Money Problems and Marriage Solutions provides married couples, and couples about to be married, with insight into how they can come together over financial discussions instead of letting money become an issue between them. It offers practical advice on creating budgets and savings plans while considering both partners’ individual needs and their shared ones—all under the umbrella of faith-based principles like giving, which have been proven beneficial for those who practice them regularly. Whether you’re just starting your marriage or celebrating your 50th anniversary this year, this book provides plenty of helpful tips on fostering financial harmony within your relationship!
Support the Authors
You can find Money Problems, Marriage Solutions at the following link.