Perhaps you’ve read that arguments over money are a leading cause of divorce, and I suspect it’s true. Money touches almost everything we do, and that’s why disagreements over money can be so poisonous. No wonder the Bible says that “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10).

I don’t know your exact situation, of course, but let me urge you to do at least three things. First, get your priorities right. Are things more important to you than God and His will? Are you constantly wanting more things so you can impress others? Don’t let this happen, but put Christ first in your lives. Jesus warned, “No one can serve two masters…. You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24).

Second, take practical steps to gain control of your money. Formulate a realistic budget and stick to it. Learn to turn your back on things you can’t afford. Set aside money in advance for special needs or occasions. Begin saving for the future. Avoid credit card and other kinds of unsecured debt.

Finally, learn to give as well as to get. Everything we have comes from God, and He gives us the privilege of giving some of it back to Him, to help those in need and advance His Kingdom. Don’t give God whatever you happen to have left over at the end of the month; instead, make it your first priority. Remember the Bible’s words: “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).