Usually when couples fight over money, they're actually not fighting about money. It's deeper than that.
Talking Points:
- Fights about money are usually rooted in another issue. It might be differing values, trust or even power.
- Step #1: Write out your personal values by answering the question, “What do I want to spend my money on?” Luke 12:15
- Step #2: Create a basic budget together. Make sure it reflects the values you’ve articulated. 1 Timothy 6:9
- Step #3: Build trust through a commitment to the budget and to transparency with spending. Colossians 3:9-10
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What was the last thing you argued about on the topic of money? What was the fight really about?
- Based on Step #1, what are each of your values when it comes to spending money? Are you surprised by your similarities or differences? Explain.
- Read Luke 12:15. How have you seen your differing values be a source of conflict in your marriage? How might greed be at the root of some of your values?
- Read 2 Corinthians 9:7-8. Is giving back to God a value of yours? How is that reflected in your spending?
- Why is it valuable to create a budget that reflects both of your values? Why is it important to stay true to the budget?
- Read 1 Timothy 6:9. How can a budget protect you from making careless spending choices?
- Read Colossians 3:9-10. How do you both need to improve on earning trust with money? How will you be more transparent moving forward?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
