“Two are better than one because they have a more satisfying return for their labour; for if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion.”
— Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 (AMP)
“Money is not a battlefield in marriage, but a field of stewardship for God’s purpose.”
I deeply appreciate this timely and sensitive subject that so many Christian couples quietly wrestle with: handling finances in marriage, especially during financial strain or crisis. The Word of God does not remain silent on this; rather, it reveals the divine order of stewardship, unity, trust, and Spirit-led living—even in times of lack.
Let us examine this truth together.
Money in Marriage: Not Ownership but Stewardship #
A key misunderstanding in Christian homes is thinking “my money” versus “your money” rather than “our stewardship under God.” In God’s eyes, husband and wife are one flesh (Genesis 2:24); their resources are to be seen as belonging to God, entrusted to both for the fulfilment of His purpose.
“The earth is the LORD’S, and the fullness of it, the world, and those who dwell in it.”
— Psalm 24:1 (AMP)
This revelation changes financial handling from conflict to cooperation. Money is not a battleground but a trust field. It is no longer about control but about mutual submission to Christ.
God’s View of Money in Marriage #
| Aspect | Man’s View (Flesh/Adam) | God’s View (Spirit in Christ) |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | “Mine vs. Yours” | “All is God’s; we are stewards” |
| Decision-making | Independent, divided | United, led by the Spirit |
| Purpose | Personal comfort, status | Kingdom advancement, family care |
| Fear in Lack | Anxiety, hoarding and blame | Trust, prayer and creativity in Christ |
Biblical Principles for Financial Handling in Marriage #
a) Open Communication: No Secrets, No Shame #
“Speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the Head, Christ.”
— Ephesians 4:15 (AMP)
Financial honesty is spiritual maturity. Hiding debts, purchases, or income weakens trust. The couple must talk openly, regularly, gently—even if the truth is uncomfortable.
“When Christ leads both hearts, financial unity becomes possible—even in lack.”
b) Agreement in Spending: Oneness in Action #
“Can two walk together, except they be agreed?”
— Amos 3:3 (KJV)
No purchase, investment, or giving should happen if one partner is deeply unsettled. Financial unity reflects spiritual unity. The Spirit will give peace to both or neither.
c) Budgeting by the Spirit: Order is not Carnal #
A Spirit-led budget is not a worldly tool but a reflection of God’s order. Jesus taught counting the cost (Luke 14:28). Budgeting prevents strife, debt, and presumption.
Handling Lack, Loss, or Financial Crisis Together #
Times of difficulty reveal the couple’s true spiritual foundation.
| In Financial Lack… | Faith Response in Christ | Fleshly Response (Adam) |
|---|---|---|
| Fear of the future | Seek God’s kingdom first (Matthew 6:33) | Worry, anxiety and control |
| Blaming spouse | Strengthen each other in prayer (Ecclesiastes 4:12) | Accusation, criticism |
| Hoarding/withholding | Radical generosity (2 Corinthians 9:8) | Withholding, stinginess |
| Presumption or rash decisions | Seek counsel, patience, wisdom (Proverbs 15:22) | Quick fixes, loans and gambling |
Man’s Leadership and Woman’s Wisdom: God’s Design #
Paul instructs that the husband leads the home as Christ leads the Church (Eph. 5:23), but this does not silence the wife’s counsel. Proverbs 31 describes a woman who buys fields and manages resources! Unity does not mean silence; it means honouring Christ in each other.
“A Spirit-led budget is a weapon against strife and anxiety in marriage.”
Practical Steps for Christ-Centred Financial Management #
- Pray together over finances weekly. Invite the Spirit’s wisdom.
- Keep shared records and open books. No private accounts.
- Set God’s Kingdom as a priority. Where does your money go?
- Avoid debt unless agreed upon and Spirit-affirmed.
- Trust God for supply—even in lack. Jehovah-Jireh is still your Source.
All this is only possible when Christ is truly in you, when you are moved by the Holy Spirit, dead to the world, dead to Adam and the flesh—but alive in Christ and the Spirit. Apart from this inner working of grace, no budget or principle will bear spiritual fruit.
In Christ,
Shaliach.
