The Role of Money in Marriage

Money plays a crucial role in marriage, influencing decisions, shaping priorities, and often becoming a source of conflict. While financial stability is important, the way a couple manages their money has a greater impact on their marriage than the amount they possess. The Bible offers profound wisdom on financial stewardship, emphasising that love for money should never supersede love for God or one’s spouse.

Money and Marriage: A Biblical Perspective

The Bible contains about 2,350 references to money and its management—nearly twice as many as it does about faith. This resource may be useful for your financial discipleship journey. Eleven of Jesus’ 39 parables address financial matters, highlighting the significant role money plays in human life. Scripture warns against the dangers of prioritising wealth over relationships.

• “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” (1 Timothy 6:10)

• “Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble with it.” (Proverbs 15:16)

• “Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.” (Ecclesiastes 5:10)

These verses remind us that money should be a servant in marriage, not a master. A successful marriage depends not on wealth but on commitment, trust, and godly wisdom in financial matters.

Financial Decisions in Marriage

Money is deeply woven into many aspects of married life. Couples often face questions such as:

• How much should we save?

• Should we buy a house or rent?

• Which schools should our children attend?

• Should we take a loan or use a credit card?

• Do we need health and life insurance?

Disagreements over financial matters can lead to tension in marriage. However, the Bible provides guidance on managing finances with wisdom and unity:

• “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9) – Working together as a couple to make financial decisions strengthens the marriage.

• "The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him." (Psalms 24:1) - Acknowledge that you are just stewards of all that you think you own, God is the owner.

• “Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house.” (Proverbs 24:27) – Planning and budgeting help prevent financial stress.

• “Owe no man anything, but to love one another.” (Romans 13:8) – Avoiding unnecessary debt fosters financial freedom and peace in marriage.

Prioritising Love Over Wealth

Many couples enter marriage with different financial mindsets. One may be a spender while the other is a saver. Some may come from wealthy backgrounds, while others have experienced financial struggles. Regardless of financial status, the key to a strong marriage is valuing one’s spouse above possessions.

• “A house is built by wisdom and becomes strong through good sense.” (Proverbs 24:3) – Wisdom and understanding, not wealth, build a lasting marriage.

• “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’” (Hebrews 13:5) – Contentment in marriage fosters joy and stability.

Many marriages suffer when financial pressures lead to blame, secrecy, or resentment. Transparent communication about finances and mutual financial goals help prevent unnecessary conflicts.

The Dowry System and Financial Strains on Marriage

Though financial management is essential, cultural practices such as dowry have made money a controversial aspect of marriage in many societies. The practice of dowry, known as Dahej or Streedhan, has led to financial burdens, domestic violence, and even crimes such as foeticide and infanticide in India. The Indian Constitution upholds gender equality and has laws against dowry, yet it remains a prevalent issue in many communities.

While financial exchanges in marriage were practiced in biblical times, the Bible warns against greed and oppression:

• “Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court.” (Proverbs 22:22)

• “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3)

Rather than viewing marriage as a financial transaction, it should be approached with love, honour, and the fear of God.

Placing God at the Centre of Marriage and Finances

Ultimately, money should not define a marriage. Whether a couple is rich or poor, what matters most is how they handle what they have. Successful marriages are built on commitment, mutual respect, and financial wisdom rooted in biblical principles.

• “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33) – Trusting in God’s provision brings peace in financial matters.

• “The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.” (Proverbs 10:22) – True wealth comes from God and should be used for His glory.

Marriages flourish when couples love each other more than material wealth and honour God in their financial decisions. Money is a tool to be managed wisely, not a master to be served. By seeking God’s wisdom and prioritising relationships over riches, couples can build strong, enduring marriages.