Faith & Finance Minute

Early retirement may seem attractive, but it has its dangers. Rob West shares retirement itself isn’t the problem, but how we view it matters deeply. If you view retirement as a new season of volunteering, care giving or mentoring it becomes a life-giving extension of our calling. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Many people put a lot of time and energy into becoming “financially independent.” Is that an appropriate goal for a Christian? Rob West quotes from Taylor Standridge who shares it comes down to why someone wants to be financially independent. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Want a simple way to build savings without the stress? Rob West suggests setting up recurring transfers from checking to savings in order to remove the pressure to remember and make saving a consistent, low-stress habit. Call it "self-driving savings"! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Insurance can be a wise way to prepare for the unexpected. Rob West warns though that not all insurance is worth it. He shares some warnings to consider when looking at home warranties. At $300 to $600 a year, you’re often better off setting that money aside. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Do you have control over the economy or the stock market? What about inflation? The answer, of course, is “no.” Rob West reminds us of a few things we can do though in order to be faithful with what God’s entrusted to us. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Materialism exerts a strong pull on each of us, but we can fight back. Rob West equips us with a way to do just that... generous giving! As Randy Alcorn says, “God prospers us not to raise our standard of living, but to raise our standard of giving.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A custodial account is a great way to give your kids or grandkids a financial jumpstart in life. Rob West shares a number of reasons to consider opening a custodial account for your child. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Over time, good habits yield great results. Bad habits have results too. Rob West shares the benefits of spending less than you earn over a long period of time and saving and investing the rest. It will yield remarkable results in the long run. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:19. Rob West shares what this verse really means... and what is doesn't. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?” - Jesus. Rob West comments on this wisdom from the Lord, that counting the cost is crucial to following through and finishing well. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Just like when your car makes noises to warn you of a problem, your budget can give you signals as well. Rob West encourages us that if we know something's wrong but can't put a finger on it, ask for help. Faith and Finance is here to help! 800-525-7000. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We've got too much stuff! Rob West challenges us to clean out our storage units and put that monthly rent into savings, or maybe give it away. If we don't need it, let's get rid of it! There’s no need to spend money on storing things we don’t need. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you've lost money from investments you thought were safe, there's still hope. Rob West encourages us from the book of Proverbs which reminds us that wealth can be lost as quickly as an eagle can fly away, but our hope in God can be rock-solid and eternal. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.Rob West quotes an old Chinese proverb and applies it to long term saving. One step won’t get you very far, but step after step after step can take you a good distance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There are two types of margin with your money. One is good the other bad. Rob West takes a look at these and gives his advice on not presuming on the future but being a stead plodder. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What we spend our money on is a clear indication of what we value most. Rob West shares insight from Leo Sabo about what Jesus said about your heart always being where your treasure is. So if you change your treasure it'll also change your heart. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you don't like your boss what should you do? Rob West shares that you may not be able to change your manager, but you can change who you actually serve. You’ll always have the kindest, most considerate boss when you serve the Lord. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There are old ways and new ways to look for work. Rob West shares a few job hunting tips to help connect you with the your next job. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is Facebook your financial advisor? Rob West points out targeted ads that play into your deepest wants and fears make billions for the advertisers, not you. If you need financial advice find a Certified Kingdom Advisor to help you put your fears to rest. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Which is more important? When stocks go up or down? Rob West points out that neither is important for most of us, but that we stick to the long range investment plan. The game ain't over until it's over. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How does faith play in to your finances? Rob West encourages us that even if we have not made all the best financial decisions, God can deliver from hopeless debt. It will take some sacrifice, but God has and will continue to help. Do you believe it? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

By living simply, we can give more generously. Rob West shares some insight from Randy Alcorn about spending less on ourselves and having more for others. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When it comes to investing, don’t neglect common sense. Rob West shares some common sense rules of investing from blogger Ben Carlson. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you are living paycheck to paycheck, Rob West points out that it isn't just about inflation. Both people that make $250,000 and those who make $50,000 have been found to spend all they bring in. The answer? Get on a budget and break the paycheck to paycheck cycle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is there ever a time when co-signing is a good thing to do? Rob West reminds us that the Bible tells us to care for our family and neighbors to help those who can’t help themselves. But when it comes to cosigning the Bible draws a clear line. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is is possible to save too much? Rob West shares that although it is not a problem for most, there are some who are so concerned about the future that they over-save. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When a loved one dies, are you responsible for his or her debts? Rob West says the answer is, it depends. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In investing, there are two critical factors: money and time. Rob West points out the longer your investing time frame, the better you’re likely to do. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There’s a saying, “Careful what you wish for you just might get it.” Rob West shares too often, the joy of material possessions has a short life. Once obtained the excitement goes away. Instead of earthly possessions lay up for yourself treasures in heaven. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

No one wants to face a financial crisis. Rob West shares the best way to avoid such a crisis... savings! Make savings a priority, the day will come when you’ll be glad you did. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Having money may turn us away from God, and a lack of it may cause our trust in Him to fail. Rob West shares a prayer from Proverbs 30 to help our focus be right where it needs to be no matter how much we have -- on God and trusting in Him to provide. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

You can’t go back and change the past, but according to Rob West the good news is you can change the future. And the key to making changes in your future -- make them! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is there such a thing as a saving gene? Rob West says no, in fact most savers had to learn. Maybe it took a few tries but they didn't quit. Don't give up, getting into the saving habit might be hard at first, but soon it’ll be like it’s part of your DNA. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

To make the most of your money, replace a bad habit with a good one. Rob West shares two examples of good habits that, over time, can make a big difference in your finances. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

To make progress in saving, use more than one bank account. Rob West shares how to keep money allocated for saving from getting mixed in with your other funds. Then you can actually make progress toward your financial goals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Giving gift cards can seem to be a good idea. However, Rob West warns gift cards do have some downsides and shares those downsides so you can give in a way that benefits and protects the recipient. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is it possible to create a budget in 60 seconds? Rob West attempts to but concludes It takes time, intentionality, and practice. Ask God for wisdom and provision, He’s faithful to guide you, even when the numbers don’t add up. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you’re over 70½, you can make a charitable donation directly from an IRA. But Rob West warns be careful not to get caught in a tax trap. There are a few traps to look out for, but being generous is a great thing to be and do. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On average, you can expect an annual return of about 10 percent in the stock market. Rob West warns the problem is, there’s rarely such a thing as an “average” year so persevere and be patient. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Have you ever been jealous of those richer than you? Rob West warns in the end, riches aren’t important. What is important is being “rich toward God,” counting Him as greater riches than anything on the earth. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wills and trusts, what’s really the difference? Rob West gives a quick primer so you can decide which you need to ensure your assets go where you want when you go home to the Lord. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The “easy way out” often leads to trouble down the road. Rob West shares how one of those "easy ways" (debt consolidation) which cures the symptom, but doesn’t address the underlying problem. Try debt management instead. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An increasing number of Americans are getting stressed out about money. So, how can you reduce money-related stress? Rob West suggests three things from financial author Art Rainer that can ease a lot of the stress you may be facing. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Do you need a raise? Rob West shares it may not be an issue of having enough money or not. Live within your means and become prayerful, faithful, wise stewards of all God provides for us. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What do the wealthy know that others might not? Rob West shares five concepts the wealthy understand and that we would benefit from as well. As Proverbs 1:5 teaches, “Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Have you ever made a financial error? Rob West shares a story of a simple error that cost millions! So always double check your figures, dates, and account numbers when making a transaction and keep errors to a minimum. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Some decisions in life are harder than others. Rob West says we ought to determine to make wise choices when it comes to earning, spending, giving, saving and investing. Because just deciding not to make bad decisions is already a good one. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In light of the Ten Commandments admonition, “You shall not steal” Rob West suggests we not only respect what belongs to others, but be open-handed with what you have and give to others. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Everybody complains about the weather but nobody does anything about it. Rob West suggests the same can be said for the financial climate. Think of it as preparing for a storm—not out of fear, but out of wisdom. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Real estate can be a smart investment. Rob West suggests It can give you an income stream through renting and almost always appreciates in value. But if you don’t feel like being a landlord, you can buy shares in a REIT. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.