by Rich Albright

Financial issues can have a personal impact on a marriage. They can cause a spouse to feel angry, betrayed, and unimportant. The danger is that these emotions may lead to bitterness, unforgiveness, and self-pity, all of which will further harm the marriage.

As Christ-followers, we are called to exchange blessings for curses, love for hatred, kindness for hostility, generosity for selfishness.

Questions that need to be asked:

1. Am I opening my heart to my spouse’s point of view?
2. Can I let go of my need for the benefit of the marriage?
3. Am I being humble?
4. Am I thinking in a Biblical manner?
5. If we don’t come to a place of agreement, am I willing to yield?
6. Finally, can I give grace to my spouse, which he/she doesn’t deserve, just as Jesus does for me so often?

Next week - When Finances Cause You to Clash - The Solution