When you’re preparing for marriage, you probably spend time praying about your future spouse, seeking wisdom from mentors, and deepening your relationship with God. But have you thought about financial planning? Money can be a major source of stress in marriage, but when approached with wisdom and biblical principles, it can also be a tool to build unity, generosity, and stability in your relationship.

Let’s explore what the Bible says about financial planning before marriage and how you can prepare well for a financially healthy marriage.

Why Financial Planning Matters in Christian Marriage

The Bible speaks extensively about money, not because wealth itself is the goal, but because our approach to finances reveals our hearts (Matthew 6:21). A strong financial foundation can help avoid unnecessary stress, provide for future needs, and enable generosity. Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” Diligence and planning honor God and set a marriage up for success.

20 Biblical Principles for Financial Planning Before Marriage

1. Acknowledge That Everything Belongs to God

Psalm 24:1 says, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” Recognizing that your money is God’s, not yours, helps you steward it well and make decisions with wisdom and accountability.

2. Discuss Financial Backgrounds Openly

Many couples enter marriage with different financial experiences. Have honest conversations about how money was handled in your family, your financial habits, and any debts or savings you bring into the relationship.

3. Create a Budget Together

Proverbs 27:23 says, “Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds.” A modern-day application is budgeting! Start practicing financial discipline now by creating a budget and tracking expenses.

4. Avoid Debt as Much as Possible

Romans 13:8 reminds us, “Owe no one anything, except to love each other.” While some debt (like a mortgage) may be inevitable, excessive consumer debt can cause strain in marriage. Work on paying off credit cards and loans before saying “I do.”

5. Prioritize Saving and Emergency Funds

Proverbs 6:6-8 praises the ant for storing up food for the future. Building an emergency fund and savings account can protect your marriage from financial crises.

6. Tithe and Be Generous

Malachi 3:10 encourages believers to bring the full tithe to God, promising His provision. Establish generosity as a couple from the beginning, making tithing and giving a core value.

7. Seek Wise Counsel

Proverbs 15:22 says, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” Seek financial wisdom from godly mentors, Christian financial advisors, or church leaders.

8. Set Financial Goals as a Team

What do you both want to accomplish financially? A home, debt-free living, missions giving? Align your financial goals with God’s purpose for your marriage.

9. Develop a Spirit of Contentment

Hebrews 13:5 reminds us to be content with what we have. Avoid comparison and financial stress by embracing gratitude rather than chasing materialism.

10. Practice Self-Control with Spending

Proverbs 25:28 warns, “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.” Discipline in finances will protect your marriage from unnecessary hardship.

11. Ensure You Have Income Stability

Paul writes in 2 Thessalonians 3:10, “If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.” While seasons of job uncertainty happen, working toward financial stability before marriage is wise.

12. Discuss Future Career and Work Plans

Will one of you stay home with future children? Will you relocate for jobs? Talk through these potential shifts and how they will impact your financial future.

13. Understand Financial Roles in Marriage

Who will manage the budget? How will big financial decisions be made? Align on responsibilities to prevent future conflicts.

14. Invest Wisely and Steward Resources Well

Matthew 25:14-30 teaches the parable of the talents—God expects us to be wise stewards of what He has given us. Look into investments and savings strategies.

15. Plan for Giving Beyond the Tithe

Generosity is a reflection of God’s heart. Consider how you can support missionaries, the local church, or those in need through financial planning.

16. Be Aware of Potential Financial Stressors

Many marital conflicts arise from money issues. Discuss expectations about lifestyle, major purchases, and handling financial difficulties before they happen.

17. Learn to Make Decisions Together

Amos 3:3 asks, “Can two walk together unless they have agreed?” Learning to make financial decisions together will strengthen your marriage.

18. Pray Over Financial Decisions

James 1:5 reminds us that God gives wisdom when we ask. Make prayer a regular part of financial decision-making.

19. Be Honest and Transparent

Financial secrets can damage trust. Commit to full transparency and accountability in financial matters.

20. Seek Christian Community for Encouragement

Surround yourself with other Christian couples who prioritize biblical financial stewardship. This can provide encouragement, accountability, and wisdom.

Building a God-Honoring Relationship

When finances are handled with biblical wisdom, they become a blessing rather than a burden in marriage. If you’re looking for a godly partner who values biblical principles, consider using SALT, the leading global Christian dating app. SALT connects single Christians who are serious about faith, marriage, and building a Christ-centered future together.

As you prepare for marriage, take time to grow in financial wisdom, trust God with your provisions, and steward well what He has given you. Your future marriage will be stronger for it!