Saturday, December 1, 2018

You Cannot Dodge Finances in Marriage: Prepare Now!

Couples have an anticipation for the most important event of their lives; this is marriage. Yes, love within marriage is important but I’ve learned that marriage requires preparation. There have been many occasions where people ask, “Who is going to manage the finances in the marriage?” Many have not even discussed this topic.
How important are money management and finances in marriage and family affairs? There is a high percentage of divorces being traced to quarrels and accusations over money. There are other estimations that divorces result from clashes over finances. Some professional counselors indicated that four out of five families are strapped with serious money problems.
Marriage struggles are not caused by lack of money, but by the mismanagement of personal finances. Money management should be on a partnership basis between the wife and husband. Both parties should have a voice in decision. When children come in the picture, they too should be involved with money concern. 
My sister, who has six kids, is a master of money management. Her and her husband have weekly accountability with finances. They have a book to keep record of what they’re spending and what needs to be paid off. They occasionally share concern of finances with their children to help them understand their way of spending. There has been times where I see the little ones complaining of how little food they think they have at the dinner table. In response, the older children express the value of money and how much they’ve gone through. Diner table has been conditioned to be a time of love and gratitude for what they have.
Teaching family members early is an importance of working and earning. In other words, children should be taught to work. “I think it is unfortunate for a child to grow up in a home where the seed is planted in the child’s mind that there is a family money tree that automatically drops green stuff once a month.” I couldn’t agree more with this statement from Marvin J. Ashton.
            People should consider self-discipline and self-restraint in money matters. Married couples show consideration and maturity when they are thinking of their partners and families before making own selfish impulses.
            I thank my sister in teaching me this one. She always asks the question, “Do you need it or want it.” I can’t tell you how many times she has said that. But it is true and should be considered. I love clothes and buying what’s new. I’ve been taught to remember that materialistic things do not last forever. If you need clothes, then shop smarter. In my family I’ve been taught to be mindful of deals and discounts stores may offer. Sometimes I even go to my local Thrift Shop to get a better bargain. 
            “Use a budget!” my sister says. We should avoid finance charges, except for homes, education, and other vital investments. Marvin J. Ashton said, “Avoid installment credit and be careful with your use of credit cards. They are principally for convenience and should not be used carelessly or recklessly. Buy used items until you have saved sufficient money to purchase quality new items. Save and invest a specific percent of income. Learn the principle of obedience and meet your financial obligations promptly.”
            Overall, money should be handled promptly. It’s for our achievement and happiness when done right. Following the “What I need” idea can really come a long way in the future. As a man of spirituality, I am confident to say that God can help manage our weakness in spending and finances. His hand is always extended to help us. With service, love, obedience. And diligence, things will always work out.

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