Materialism Affects the Marriage

Materialism Affects the Marriage

Materialism, especially when both people in the marriage don’t agree upon the things, can be really hard on a marriage.  When materialism is apparent in a marriage it will usually take over the relationship the couple may have.  It means the couple isn’t talking about what is important, they aren’t spending time together and aren’t talking.  If they are, it is when dealing with the problem instead of really enjoying each other. Materialism is when a person feels the need to own or have certain things, or would rather play or use an item instead of spending time with their spouse or family.  When this happens there will be problems. Materialism isn’t when a person spends some time with the item, but when everyone and everything is ignored.

To deal with materialism, it is important to admit there is a problem.  This means you need to realize you have a problem buy or spending more time with something than you do with those who are important to you.

It also means you make sure you watch the amount of time you spend with this particular material item.  This may mean you need to put the thing(s) away, asks your spouse to keep you accountable to not spend more time using a certain thing or doing certain activities.  Maybe you need to start by scheduling time for the activity you are having a problem with or to make sure you schedule quality time with your spouse and/or family.  Depending on what is the cause of materialism, maybe you get rid of the item totally.   

Proverbs 11:28 says, “Those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.” (NIV)  This helps us put things into prospective when it comes to acquiring positions.  It is important to make sure you know what is important and where you need to spend your time. This next verse says it best in Proverbs 22:1, “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.” (NIV)

That doesn’t mean you don’t make sure you have the basics to do what is necessary as a family, but you need to think about what your family really needs.  You may not need the biggest T.V. etc.  It is a matter of priorities and having them in line.  But in order to make this happen it takes working with your spouse along with making it work.  It won’t always be easy, but it is about knowing what needs to be done and doing it, making it work.  When you are willing to make it happen, everyone else will make it happen.  You will find you are glad you aren’t dealing with the material items anymore