April Wise Stewards Finance Tip

Many of you remember Elder Marvin J. Ashton.  Some may even remember the talk he gave in the April 1975 general conference during the welfare session titled “Guide to Family Finance”.  This talk, given more than a quarter century ago is the basis of the church pamphlet “One for the Money” that is available through church distribution.  Its advice is as good today as it was then, and even more important to heed now.  I wanted to include a quote from Elder Ashton’s quote which is disturbing in that the statistics continue to remain similar to those cited in 1975.

“How important are money management and finances in marriage and family affairs? May I respond, “Tremendously.” The American Bar Association has indicated that 89 percent of all divorces can be traced to quarrels and accusations over money. Others have estimated that 75 percent of all divorces result from clashes over finances. Some professional counselors indicate that four out of five families are strapped with serious money problems.”

Elder Ashton’s talk has been reprinted in more than one Ensign issue in the years since it was first given, which reinforces how important his message is.  With all the resources the church puts out to help families, this one is vital.  I feel so blessed to belong to a church where the importance of the stability of marriage and family is paramount, and this reinforces my testimony of the gospel.  Over the next several months we’ll look at the 12 points that Elder Ashton covers in “One for the Money” so we can take a closer look at this topic that is so important whether you are single, married, or busily raising a family.