Dear Friends,

To be honest, this week’s blog installment has been on my heart for two weeks as I’ve anticipated writing it and wondered how best to communicate my heart to you.  I got into a financial career because I am a numbers guy.  As I mentioned in last week’s video, I’m most comfortable when I have an excel spreadsheet and my computer.  Over the years, however, I have realized more and more that money issues are symptomatic of so many deeper and more painful things; money questions and troubles are often the first layer of deep issues within marriages or within a person’s heart.

I’ve come to believe that our finances represent one of the most practical and difficult places that God asks us to live out our faith.  When we look at our checkbooks, we see a reflection of our victories, our fears, our priorities, and our problems. 
I’ve also come to know, even on a personal level in my own marriage to Judy, that marriage can be the crucible through which God refines and sanctifies us as the “two become one flesh.”

So, whenever I encounter a “money and marriage” question, I know that I’m encountering a true soul-level question.  As we train advisors to care for their clients well, we always tell them that the skill they need to hone the most is the skill of being able to listen and empathize.  When a marriage is troubled by money, the money issue itself is only just the beginning of the deeper needs and questions.

All that being said, my heart toward the woman who asked this question this week is one of empathy and grace.  Although money is the outworking of the problem you are having, I am certain that the deeper communication and trust issues are more painful than the surface level dollars and cents issues.  I would encourage you to find your hope in your relationship with Christ and to depend on His guidance.  Additionally, continue to see the guidance and support of your church and believing friends as you seek to honor your husband and to honor God simultaneously with your financial decisions.  May you be blessed for the grace and the faith that you convey by even asking the question, and may He answer your prayers for unity and openness with your husband.

Blessings,
Ron


Click here for the video transcript