Honesty in Finances

Think your spouse is cheating with your finances? Or maybe you’re the one that’s being dishonest?

The National Endowment for Financial Education states that financial infidelity can be just as significant as emotional or sexual infidelity in marriage. In a poll last year, it was found that 2 in 5 Americans who’ve combined their money admit to lying about or withholding financial information from their partner. This leads to arguments, distrust, separation and even divorce.

That’s why the apostle Paul said,

“Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.”

(Colossians 3:9-10)   

Maybe it’s time to consider some red flags. You’ve found a receipt for an unfamiliar purchase, an unexplained charge on the credit card, or are unable to locate a bill or credit card statement. And, your spouse gets defensive or withdrawn when asked about it.

If you’re suspicious, don’t stress – go to the Lord. Ask Him to give you discernment and peace. Then, approach your spouse in humility and love. Don’t catch him or her off guard.

If you need to confess to your spouse, ask for a meeting and share your desire to get on the same page. Be fully honest and transparent. Apologize for anything you’ve done and be the first to forgive.

Then, create goals to plan for your future. Trust must be rebuilt so learn how to better communicate about finances. Hold each other accountable and find ways to celebrate your improved relationship and bank accounts.

Solomon said, “Better is a poor person who walks in his integrity than one who is crooked in speech and is a fool.”

You can take the first step towards creating a financial plan with your spouse by downloading the free Money Map. It’s a visual guide that will help you prioritize and get on the same page. Find it for free at crown.org/moneymap