Money and the Bible | Personal Finances From the Perspective of Godமாதிரி

FAMILY FINANCES

Talking about money within the family is extremely important to succeed in financial life, whether it is with the spouse or children. Today the second biggest cause of divorce is linked to financial problems. When we talk about financial issues within marriage, some pillars need to be worked out by the couple.

The first pillar that must be internalized is unity. When we join our spouses, we become one flesh, so we must treat our finances in a unified way. We cannot have individualities about revenue and expenses; we must treat our resources, inputs, and outputs as being one.

The second pillar is agreement. One of the characteristics of unity in marriage is harmony: to be walking in the same direction. If we understand man as the head and woman as the body, there is no way to walk in divergent paths. If the "head" decides to go left and the "body" to the right, the couple is paralyzed, it will not leave the place. We need to understand the roles within marriage and move in the same direction.

The third and final pillar is dialogue. There is no financial success within marriage without communication, specifically verbal interaction. The couple needs to talk about finances. With debts, share the real situation, and face the problem together. Regarding dreams and projects; define roles and execute plans to achieve the objectives. Be intentional to reflect on the real financial situation of the family.

Overcoming the financial barriers should be extended to older children. Not only be intentional and communicating about family finances but also be financially educating your children.

In the education process, three things are fundamental: verbal communication, example, and practical experience. We are like showcases for our children; they watch us and, as a blank sheet, write and create concepts and values of dealing with money according to what we demonstrate. Parents need to be examples of how to deal with money and not allow their children to influence family consumption.

How do I do that if I didn't have it in my childhood? The example of how our parents handled money has formed in us beliefs and convictions on the subject. Often, we will need to change old habits, question our financial mindset, even our education. So then we can replicate to our children a new model of how to deal with money according to God's perspective.

Finally, the Bible encourages us to leave an inheritance for our children. Invest in their future, leave an eternal legacy. Be intentional; it demonstrates competence in managing the resources God has given you and diligence in your financial actions.

APPLICATION

Make an intentional moment with your spouse and talk about family finances. See if they're in agreement and create a plan in unity. Finally, question your beliefs, values, and education you have had about money; if needed, change your mindset. Then, your children will see you practice and can create a new perspective on money at your home.