You’ve probably noticed that you and your spouse don’t always see eye-to-eye. Maybe one of you talks too much – or not enough. Or one of you feels hot while the other is shivering cold. Or maybe one of you is a saver and the other is a spender.
If you’re not careful, those differences – especially that last one – can drive you apart. Petty disagreements about money can easily turn into full-grown battles that bleed a relationship dry.
Well-known author, radio host, and financial expert Dave Ramsey, our guest on our Focus on the Family Broadcast “Getting a Handle on Your Family Finances,” says those differences are never more difficult to navigate than when it comes to finances. When couples aren’t on the same page with one another about how money should be used, it pushes their relationship apart.
Studies show that conflict over money is the number one cause of divorce in American homes. That’s because money is not a passive part of marriage. It reflects a couple’s value system and dictates how that family operates. Dave calls money a family’s “checkbook autobiography.” Where your money goes says a lot about what’s important to you.
But there is good news. If conflict over money is the number one source of marriage trouble, then coming into agreement is the number one opportunity to improve relationships. Improving communication about money can make a good marriage great or lift one that’s struggling to a new level of healing.
The benefits are greater than extra money in the bank. Dave says, “When you agree on your spending, you’re agreeing on your dreams. And when that happens, you get oneness and unity in your marriage.”
That is worth all the effort.
Join me for my conversation with Dave Ramsey on your local radio station, online, on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or take us with you on our free phone app.
Dave’s books The Total Money Makeover or Smart Money, Smart Kids is available for a gift of any amount. Visit our website for more information.
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