Q: In over 15 years of marriage, my husband and I have never been on the same page when it comes to money. We are both stressed out over credit card debt. He believes debt is sinful and until we get out of debt, God will not bless us. I don't go that far. We have made mistakes when it comes to money, but I don't want this debt to destroy our marriage. Any advice?

A: My greatest encouragement to you is to get on the same team and solve this debt problem together. You both have deep beliefs about money that are driving every word you speak and every action you take. These beliefs have been shaped from parents and culture. Study the Scriptures to bring your beliefs about money into alignment with God's principles.

Take a look at these Scripture passages. For the next week discuss a passage a day.

1. Avoid borrowing whenever possible.
"The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender." Proverbs 22:7

2. Make sure that your use of credit is not replacing your trust in God's timing.
"Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes…" Psalm 37:7

3. Avoid credit when buying wants, not needs. Be content.
"I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." Philippians 4:11

"But godliness with contentment is great gain. ⁷For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. ⁸But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that." 1 Timothy 6:6-8

4. Pay your debts on time.
"The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously…" Psalm 37:21

5. If you are unable to make your payments, make arrangements with the credit card companies.
¹ My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor,
if you have struck hands in pledge for another,
² if you have been trapped by what you said,
ensnared by the words of your mouth,
³ then do this, my son, to free yourself,
since you have fallen into your neighbor's hands:
Go and humble yourself;
press your plea with your neighbor! Proverbs 6:1-3

Debt is stressful. I know the strain it can put on a couple. You and your husband need to be a team. Make a plan. Get help through Christian financial counseling and debt consolidation. Blessings as you work at this together.

© Copyright 2007 Smalley Relationship Center

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