Budgeting for Couples: A Spiritual Discipline
Can you believe that I once hated budgeting?
That’s right. I dreaded sitting down with my husband to look over our budget. It felt stressful.
And if you feel that way, I don’t blame you.
The thing is, budgeting for couples doesn’t have to be stressful. It can be peaceful and empowering.
I have seen the great work that God can do through it and I want to equip you with the tips and steps to help you budget with simplicity and confidence using God’s principles in the Bible.
Let’s dive in!
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Bible Verses About Budgeting for Couples
Before we get started, let’s go over some Bible verses that help us understand what God’s Word says on this topic of budgeting.
Proverbs 27:23-24
Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds; for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations.
Flocks and herds in Biblical times were a sign of having wealth. In today’s terms, you could apply this instruction as: know the condition of your finances, and pay careful attention to them.
We can’t obey that scripture without a system that holds us accountable to see what money is coming in and what money is coming out. (And that’s exactly what a budget does!)
Proverbs 21:5
The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.
This verse teaches us that the proper planning of our God-given resources will help us to earn even more. That’s because we are being intentional and purposeful, and will likely make more strategic decisions.
If we act hastily without giving thought to what we’re doing, we’re more likely to be wasteful. That leads to poverty!
Luke 14:28
“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?
This verse came right from the mouth of Jesus Himself. While He spoke about this in a spiritual context, it can be applied in practical terms as well.
Before we commit to a purchase, we should ensure we can pay for it without hindering our ability to cover our other expenses.
5 Steps for Budgeting as a Couple
If you’re new to budgeting or just need a simple, step-by-step approach that works for you, I want to share a process that can help you do so while keeping Jesus at the center!
1. Set a time and date.
If you aren’t intentional to set a time and date, it’s more likely that you can forget or skip over the budget.
That’s why the first step is to set a time and date for when you’ll budget with your spouse! It might sound simple, but many people don’t do it.
2. Start with prayer.
The second step is to start with prayer. When we put Jesus first in our lives, we’re much more fruitful. So, start with a brief prayer to invite the Lord into what you’re doing, to lead you and to help you align with your spouse.
3. Choose a simple tracking method.
The simpler something is, the more likely we are to adapt to it and be consistent with it! That’s why it’s important to decide on a simple method to track your expenses and plan your budget.
You can download my free budget template to get started.
It’s a simple way to see the money you expect to come in and the money you plan to spend.
4. Cover your bases & keep it brief.
The first time that you do a budget, it may take a bit longer, but over time it will get easier.
Here are four specific points you should cover with your spouse:
- What income do you plan to earn this month?
- What expenses do you have this month?
- Are there any irregularities you expect this month? (One-time expenses like car maintenance.)
- What will you do with money that’s leftover?
Once you know the basic expenses you have, it’s important to create a plan for any extra money and give it an assignment. Whether it’s $10 or $1,000, decide as a couple how to use that money wisely.
5. Pick a date for the next budget meeting.
Putting a date on your goals helps you follow through. That’s why it’s important to pick a date and time to follow up on your next budget.
You should have a monthly budget meeting before each new month begins, but you can also plan quick check-ins on a weekly basis to track your progress.
Tips for Budgeting as a Couple Without Shame or Guilt
How can you be consistent with your budget without creating shame or feeling legalistic about it?
Here are some tips!
First, it’s important to reframe what budgeting is for you.
Remember that it’s not meant to RESTRICT. Budgeting actually gives freedom to spend without shame. It enables you to spend PEACEFULLY. Without anxiety, stress, or guilt.
Second, create systems that hold you accountable.
For example, once a week, set a date on your calendar for 10-15 minutes to review and track your progress with your spouse. This increases the chances you’ll follow through with the plan.
Next, work together as a team.
Decide to ask questions rather than place blame. Think about how you can support your spouse rather than what they’re doing wrong.
To make this actionable, ask them what are 1-2 things you can do to help them to be consistent and confident in this new budgeting method.
Last, be willing to forgive yourself.
Work with God to reframe your mistakes and see this as a learning process. No one is born a budgeter–it’s something you adopt, learn, and get better at over time!
Don’t put pressure on yourself to do it perfectly, but celebrate the progress you make along the way.
Summary
Budgeting for couples can feel shameful and stressful for many people, but when you do it God’s way, it doesn’t have to be!
Invite God into your marriage, finances, and every other area of your life to see just how He will bring hope and transformation.
Did this post on budgeting for couples help you? Let me know by leaving a comment below!
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