Money & Marriage (subtitled A Complete Guide for Engaged and Newly Married Couples) by Matt Bell is a great tool not just for those planning to become married but also for those already married and finagling their way through all things financial (which is all of us marrieds!) It is never too late to begin a "Cash Flow Plan vs. Budget". The author reminded us that we must look toward financial freedom in a different way than we may have previously viewed money management. He presented this topic from a biblical aspect.
Starting in Chapter One, statistics were given and pages upon pages of questions asked the reader to take an inventory of their financial situation. The questions could be overwhelming but for the later chapters, which allowed the reader to easily discover solutions. Easy-to-understand plans with resources to help financial stewardship were presented.
Pages 39&40 Mr. Bell shared his personal account of inheriting $60K and how though he squandered the money, he learned a valuable lesson from the experience. The definition of "consume" was sobering. I won't look at money quite the same way after reading about wasteful spending and how we can all do much better with our money.
Chapter Four was fascinating as it gave four distinct categories in which people land in regard to spending. I easily discovered I was a 'phleg" but could not quite place my husband in a category. This chapter was interesting as I never realized personality played a part in money management .
There were so many helpful downloadable monthly cash flow plans and numerous website helps. I would be confident in contacting the author for future consulting or help if I did not have someone to aid me in that area currently. The "Know Your Stuff" website was amazing!
However, the best advice in the entire book was found on page 144. DINKhood has changed my life. Also, the discussion of prenups quite interesting. I thoroughly enjoyed the use of Scripture throughout as well as the case studies and personal accounts of the author and his wife.
Money & Marriage would be an excellent engagement gift or even a wedding gift. The subject of money is often overlooked and it does not have to be. This is an excellent tool which includes God. It is never too late to get serious about financial stewardship. Certainly implementing the concepts in this book will help married couples get on the same financial page!
Check out a sample chapter. Buy it today!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from NavPress Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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