8 Must-Have Conversations Before Getting EngagedChikamu

Day 4: Finances and Parenting

"The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” - Proverbs 21:5

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” - Proverbs 22:6

The fifth must-have conversation is about financial planning and goals.

Money issues can be a huge headache in relationships, so it's super important to be upfront about where you're at financially, what you're aiming for down the line, and how you plan to handle your cash as a team. This means getting into the nitty-gritty of budgeting, saving up, investing, and how you feel about spending and debt.

Start by laying out your current financial situation. Be open about your income, debts, and savings. This transparency builds trust and helps you both understand where you're starting from. Discuss your short-term and long-term financial goals. Are you saving for a house, planning to travel, or thinking about retirement? Knowing each other's priorities helps you create a shared vision for your future together.

Budgeting is another key topic. Agree on how you'll manage day-to-day expenses and big purchases. Will you combine your finances or keep separate accounts? How will you track spending and stay within budget? The Bible encourages wise stewardship of resources, so by setting clear financial boundaries and goals, you follow biblical principles of diligence and planning.

The sixth must-have conversation is about children and parenting styles.

If you plan to have children, it's important to discuss how many kids you want, your parenting philosophies, and how you'll balance work and family life. These conversations can help align your expectations and clarify how you'll tackle the challenges of parenthood together.

Start by exploring your desires and visions for a family. How many children do you hope to have? What are your thoughts on discipline, education, and values? Sharing these views helps ensure you’re on the same page.

Balancing work and family life is also crucial. Talk about how you'll share responsibilities and support each other in both careers and parenting. The Bible offers guidance on raising children with love and wisdom, so lean on those principles to shape your parenting approach. By discussing these aspects, you prepare yourselves to build a nurturing and harmonious family environment.