Proverbs 14:23 “All hard work brings a profit.” 

Proverbs 24:33-34 “A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.” – New International Version

My wife and I received the news in utter shock. A couple we know very well were separating, the main reason being that the wife was no longer willing to keep supporting the family financially. She was the sole income earner and felt her husband should do more to seek opportunities to earn an income. Yes he was unemployed and had tried several business ventures without success. My wife and I knew that there had to be more to their misunderstanding than just the question of family income.

Why it was a shock, was that this was a couple who met in church and had been in ministry work together. They were the “perfect couple” in so many people’s eyes – no one thought their marriage could ever hit the rocks.

The issue of family income and who is the breadwinner for the family is certainly a major issue that all marriages must address and ensure that the husband and wife are on the same page. But it is not the only thing that holds a marriage together. We have seen break-ups happen even when the couple was well-to-do.

Married couples need to realize that “work” according to God encompassess all facets of life – not just income generating activities. For a married couple it even includes activities to keep the “fire of love” burning bright and spice up the marriage; as well as activities towards building their social networks and keeping their accountability contacts.

Our attitude should always be that of diligence in everything we do, so as to realize the profit (tangible and intangible benefits), and ensure we don’t end up trapped in mental, spiritual, emotional, social and financial poverty. The end goal for every diligent effort, should be to honour God.

“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” (Colossians 3:23–24). – New King James Version