DO MATERIAL PURSUITS DIVIDE YOUR HOME?

Problems and attitudes regarding material things can divide families in many ways. Sadly, some families are disrupted by arguments over money and the desire to be rich-or at least a little richer. Divisions my develop when both mates work secularly and cultivate a "my money, your money attitude.  Even if arguments are avoided, when both mates work they may find themselves with a schedule  that leaves little time for each other.  A growing trend in the world is for fathers to live away from their families for extended periods-months or even years-in order to earn more money than they could ever earn at home.  This can lead to very serious problems. (Note: God meant for us to live humbly, not to get greedy and materialistic in living life. We only need the basics in life, rent/mortgage, utilities, food, clothes, transportation, medical and transportation. Not yoga classes, not dance classes, not fancy cars or houses or clothes or fancy furniture etc.)  

No rules can be laid down for handling these situations, since different families have to deal with different pressures and needs.  Still, Bible counsel can help.  For example, Proverbs 13:10 indicates that needless struggle can sometimes be avoided by "consulting together."  This involves not merely stating one's own views but seeking advice and fining out how the other person looks at a matter. Further, working out a realistic budget can help to unify families efforts. Sometimes it is necessary-perhaps temporarily -for both mates to work outside the home to care of added expenses, especially when there are children or other dependents.  When this is the case, the husband can reassure his wife that he still has time for her.  He along with the children can lovingly help with some of the work that she might normally handle alone. -Philippians 2:1-4. 

However, keep in mind that while money is a necessity in this system of things, it does not bring happiness.  It certainly does not give life. (Ecclesiastes 7:12) Indeed, overemphasis on material things can cause spiritual and moral ruin.  (1 Timothy 6:9-12)  How much better to seek first God's Kingdom and his righteousness, with the assurance of having his blessing on our efforts to obtain life's necessities!  (Matthew 6:25-33; Hebrews 13:5) By keeping spiritual interests to the fore and by pursuing peace first of all with God, you may find that your household, though perhaps divided by certain circumstances, will become one that is truly united in the most important ways. 

Next time: YOU CAN OVERCOME PROBLEMS THAT DAMAGE A FAMILY, CHAPTER TWELVE

From the book: THE SECRET OF FAMILY HAPPINESS, 1996