In the area of family finances men and women each bear a responsibility, however the areas of concern are different. The husband’s role is to:
- Provide the money
- Manage the money
- Concern over the money
The wife’s role is different, but no less important. Her duties are to:
- Be thrifty
- Cooperate with his plan
- Provide a peaceful home life
As stated in the last lesson, it is the husband’s responsibility to provide the living. Managing the money and any stress with this job fall under the authority that comes with his leadership.
Any man from time to time may have a change in situation that requires a wife to be adaptable and willing to sacrifice. His success or failure may depend on your willingness to cooperate with a new set of circumstances. It is up to you to provide a peaceful home existence, even in the midst of trying times.
A very good way to for a wife to handle the running of a household is for her to be given a household allowance. She should operate within this given budget and practice the art of thrift. Your standard of living can be measured by how well you manage your money. Even on a low income she can be the key to a full and rich home life.
The wife’s budget should cover such things as food, clothing, household goods, personal items, things in regular demand, and even occasional things like furniture, appliances, repairs, or remodeling. Your husband’s income will determine how much this allowance should be, but it should be adequate to keep the family running smoothly. Should the wife become an expert at spending wisely she should be allowed to spend the excess however she pleases. This gives her added incentive to be diligent and resourceful and gives her some personal freedom.
The rest of the household bills and investments should be under the husband’s care and control. Monthly utility bills, loan payments, insurance premiums, yard care, car upkeep , taxes all fall under his jurisdiction. Extra items like furniture, repairs, remodeling and such should be worked out according to the income provided. The final say in such matters belongs to the husband, but certainly a wise wife will have a say and offer valuable insight. There is nothing wrong with discussion, but the authority it his.
Surveys have shown that there are more disagreements in marriages over money than any other single thing. Your husband should consult you, but he is under no obligation to do so - and it’s wrong to expect this. If he is meeting his responsibilities for you and his children, then it’s best to let him have the reins in this matter.