Faith & Finance

So, how much is enough for Christians?If you’re just starting out, or struggling financially, “How much is enough?” might seem like a silly question. The bottom line for you is that you just need more money at the moment! Why should you think about “how much is enough” when you hardly have anything? And what if you’re at the other end of things? If you’re approaching retirement, you might be thinking about the size of your nest egg. But why put a limit on accumulating money and possessions? Based on these two examples, the definition of “enough” seems to depend on what stage of life you’re in. Well, let’s look at what the Bible has to say about what’s “enough”. In Luke 12:15, Jesus says, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” Jesus is making a rather unexpected statement: Getting more money is never the goal, no matter how old you are. Jesus As The Source Of LifeThe desire of every human heart is for life, which means satisfying, abundant, purposeful existence. So, when Jesus says “life does not consist in an abundance of possessions,” he’s pointing away from money as the source of life, and to something else.That something else is Himself. Here’s what Jesus says:John 11:25-26 - “Jesus told her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.’”John 14:6 - “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”John 10:10 - “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”So, our deepest needs for relationship and purpose are met in Christ. He is enough. But what about the things we need to survive, day to day? Well, believers in Christ serve a God who promises to “meet all our needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)Trusting God For Daily NeedsIn Matthew 6, Jesus reminds his followers not to be anxious about food, or clothing, or shelter. “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”This means… you will always have enough of what you need to live, and you can trust God to know what that is. Anything beyond that is a gift.Following Jesus means acknowledging God’s sovereignty and his ownership of everything. As the Holy Spirit works in your heart, your motivation to accumulate gradually changes from self-centered to God-centered.With Jesus as Lord of your life, your idea of “enough” begins to change, too…because you’re trusting God to meet your needs…and your desires start to line up with what God wants. You will begin to “desire less” of worldly things, and “more” of Christ.All this is part of the miraculous heart-change that happens when God gets hold of you. So, while the worldly person is asking, “How can I get more?”, the Christian asks, “How can I love God more?”As a loving Father, God not only provides for daily needs, but he provides satisfying Kingdom work for his children to do. James 1:7 says, “Everygood and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights”. Out of gratitude and a desire to be more like Jesus, we look for ways to serve others with what God has provided. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” - Ephesians 2:10So, consider this…“How much is enough?” may actually be the wrong question. For believers, the real question is, “Who is enough?” Following Christ is the way to peace, joy and abundant life.No matter what your financial situation is, ask God to change your heart. He will change your desire for accumulation…into a desire for less stuff and more Jesus. The rest will fall into place.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I collect Social Security Disability and I was wondering if I should stop that and go straight to Social Security or is there a way I can receive both? My wife and I are debt-free minus our mortgage. I’m maxing out my retirement account right now and have sufficient funds in my savings account for an emergency fund. Should we start aiming at paying our house off early? I have a neighbor who wants to buy 20 feet of a property I own which I’m willing to do, but I have no concept of how to determine a fair market value for the property. And I also don’t know how to determine the implications for income tax on this transaction. I have a question regarding donations to 501(C)3 organizations where I gave in the month of December. The reason I’m confused is that the bill doesn’t come due on my credit card until January. So which year is the gift tax-deductible for? I have about $12,000 in credit card debt and I’m wondering if I should transfer it over to a new credit card that offers 0% interest for 21 months or go with a personal loan with a lower interest rate. Thoughts? Resour

It All Starts With CommunicationCommunication is crucial for estate planning in blended families, highlighting the importance of being open, transparent, and truthful. While this may be difficult at times, it's essential for bringing issues to the forefront, suggesting that effective communication is the foundation for addressing the unique challenges blended families face in estate planning.How do blended families with different goals work it out?When spouses in blended families have different goals, they should prioritize seeking understanding and compromise. Seek first to understand and then to be understood, emphasizing the value of asking questions like "tell me more about that" to gain insight into the other person's perspective. When disagreements become particularly challenging, involve a third party for neutral counsel. This approach aims to help spouses find common ground, or at least agree to respect and support their separate goals, fostering unity and cooperation.The Importance Of Meeting The Needs Of Both FamiliesIt’s important to have at least some common goals between the two families, emphasizing that it's ideal for all parties to be pulling in the same direction. There may be separate goals but it’s crucial that these not be in opposition to each other. The aim is for the families to work together on shared goals, and if there are individual goals, both spouses should be supportive of them. This approach facilitates a process where peace can be made with having separate goals, ensuring that efforts are collaborative rather than divisive.What are some of the issues or sticking points that blended families commonly run into?One major issue is the division of attention and resources among children from previous relationships versus those from the current relationship. This can lead to feelings of being overlooked or undervalued, particularly among older children who may fear being left out or disinherited. Additionally, blended families often face challenges stemming from different levels of wealth, assets, and experiences brought into the union by each partner. These differences can create conflicts over how to integrate and manage such varied financial backgrounds and expectations within the family.The goal of estate planning in blended families is to achieve unity and honor God in the process. It’s important to address the unique challenges blended families face, such as managing different goals between spouses, ensuring all children feel valued, and integrating various financial backgrounds. The aim is to find a balance that meets the needs of both families involved, fostering an environment where all members can agree and make peace with their financial decisions and estate planning, ultimately honoring their shared values and beliefs.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My mom’s estate is split into two pieces and we're currently in probate as we navigate the details of the distribution of all her assets. However, my question is that I’m getting a lot of paperwork during this process and the lawyer handling the probate process is asking me to forfeit my right to an audit of her estate. Is that normal? Do lawyers do this a lot? I just didn’t want to sign something before knowing what I was signing. Do I need to hire an attorney to help me translate all of the lawyer talk I’m running into?On my Roth 401(k), do I have to pay taxes on it? I’m about to retire in a few months and just want to make sure I don’t draw funds too early. I’m wondering if I should pay off our mortgage. There is a $70,000 balance left on it with a 3% interest rate but I still have several years before I want to retire so I just wanted to know if that was the best thing to do with that money. Is Social Security Disability considered taxable and is also considered income? Resources Mentioned:Wise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Valerie Neff Hogan, JD and Miriam NeffRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Albert Einstein is credited with saying that the power of compounding is the eighth wonder of the world, and “He who understands it, earns it; he who doesn’t, pays it. And Ron Blue shares a story for us about a couple who apparently understood this very well.“I received a call from my 30-something-year old son awhile back. He’d been married for some time and he is a teacher and his wife Ann was a teacher. And his question to me was, “Dad,” he said, “You know, Ann and I are just teachers and we're just never going to have enough, probably, to ever retire.So I said, well, Tim, tell me a little bit about your financial situation. And what he said to me was truly amazing! They have never ever used credit card debt. They didn't have any car loans. They had a home mortgage and they had a savings account and their savings account was maybe 30-thousand. I don't remember the exact amount. And the reason they had a savings account I think is significant. It’s that when they both worked, they saved one of the salaries. They wanted to save one of the salaries prior to having children. Not only did they save that money, but it taught them to live on one salary. And so they had some money in savings that, quite frankly, for a 30 year old couple, put them in phenomenal financial shape.”How Did They Do It? Well, it’s not rocket science and you don’t need to be Einstein to appreciate compound earnings, which is what this is all about. Ron later remarked that “Tim shared with me that they were contributing to their 403b plan the maximum amount and that was another four or $5000 a year. So they were not spending everything that was coming in and they were saving for the future. And I said to him, Tim, do you realize that if you continue to save $1000 or $2000 or $3000 a year, what that's going to grow into over the next 35 or 40 years when you plan on retiring?I said my guess is that it'll grow to probably at least a million or even more dollars. And when I looked at the compounding charts, I realized that just saving $1000 a year out of his salary, or out of their salary and putting it towards retirement, he was going to have enough to retire on. However, just like Tim and Ann, you have to make that commitment. They had chosen a lifestyle that was relatively small compared to what the world said that he could afford.Another example is my wife’s Aunt. She died without marrying and when she died, she left a considerable amount of money. She had stayed in one home over her whole working life. She never even owned a car because she could walk to work. The reason she had enough for retirement was that she hadn't spent it on consumptive items early on.”What To Do If You’re Worrying About Saving For Retirement? Whether or not you have enough for retirement is really not a function of your income as much as it is a function of the expenses. If you can live below your income and if you can avoid spending consumptively, then given enough time, you are probably going to have enough for retirement. And that starts with a spending plan that keeps your spending less than your income.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:A little over two years ago, my husband passed away and my CPA said that if nothing changes with my finances anytime soon, I won’t have to worry about filing taxes anymore. I initially heard that and wanted to see if you could provide some confirmation about whether or not that could be true. I have a question about capital gains on the sale of a home. Am I correct in figuring out the basis that you take what you received on the sale of the home and you subtract what you paid initially and that forms a basic part of the basis for how you calculate the capital gains tax? Currently I’m in the Florida Drop System for retirement since I’m a government worker. I’ve got about $180,000 set aside in a credit union for savings and was earning 3.5% interest on a variable rate, but now it’s earning close to 2.75%. I didn’t know if it would be a good idea to move that money or some of that money to somewhere different to see if I could earn more money during this time. What are your thoughts? I’m hearing some new teaching recently that tells me that we’re not under the law anymore and therefore aren’t required to tithe anymore. According to the New Testament, they are saying we are called to give according to what we have decided in our heart. What do you think? Resources Mentioned:BankrateRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of

The Financial Impact of College EducationGoing to college is a financial decision, second only to buying a house. More specifically, it’s an investment decision. Will it pay off? Perhaps the most important factor determining that is whether you graduate with a degree. Fail to do that, and any money you spend, or borrow, for college, will likely be money down the drain in terms of future earnings.The good news is that data just released by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York shows that earning a college degree is still financially worthwhile—generally speaking. The data shows that recent college grads working full time earn about $25,000 a year more than those with only a high school diploma.The catch is, they have to be working. That means majors chosen by college grads must give them skills that managers are willing to pay for.Another study by the American Educational Research Journal shows that engineering and computer science degrees give the highest rate of return on dollars spent for education. They’re followed by business, health, math, and science majors.So for example, those with a bachelor degree in engineering can expect to start out at around $80,000 a year, and significantly higher with a master’s degree. The highest paid engineers working on aircraft, satellites, bridges and other infrastructure can earn several hundred thousand dollars a year. One catch, though, you have to be really good at math.Meanwhile, computer systems managers make, on average, a bit over $140,000, but can earn significantly more than that depending on the level of complexity and responsibility with the job.Managing Student Loan DebtThe study also showed that education, humanities and arts majors ranked the lowest in return on investment. Now, to be clear, we’re not telling you to avoid those fields if that’s where your passion lies. But college is expensive, and it’s important to know the earning potential of any major you’re considering, especially if you’re borrowing to attend college.U.S. Census Bureau data shows a median salary of around $53,000 for degrees in Family and Consumer Services and Fine Arts … and $55,000 for degrees in Elementary education and Social work. If that’s where you’re headed, you’ll need to watch your expenses like a hawk, and borrow as little as possible.Now consider that according to the National Education Association, teachers with student loan debt owe an average of $56,000. We’ll take that with a grain of salt because the NEA exists to advocate for higher teacher salaries, but if that figure is even close to accurate, it shows the difficulty many teachers have in paying back their student loans—when they only make that much in a year.Remember, college is an investment, so always consider how long it will take to pay back your student loans on the salary you can expect to get with your major. Obviously, the less you borrow, the faster that will be. But also, the higher the salary, the faster you’ll get out of the red and into the black.Perhaps the ultimate example of that is the emergency room physician. That person will leave medical school with an average of $215,000 in student loan debt, according to the Education Data Initiative. That sounds like an awful lot, and it is, but consider that the median salary of an emergency room physician is now $350,000 a year. A doctor will almost certainly pay off student loan debt before a teacher.But again, we’re not telling you not to become a teacher or social worker if you feel that’s your Godly calling. Just do everything you can to minimize your student loan debt. That’s good advice regardless of the major you choose.Remember Proverbs 22:7— just 15 words that you need to memorize: “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.”Practical Advice for Future StudentsSo, take as many Advanced Placement classes as possible. Get a part time job in high school and college and put your earnings toward tuition. But perhaps the most productive use of your time will be applying for scholarships.Set up a scholarship application assembly line and apply for dozens of them. It will pay off, but it takes time and effort. The greatest gift you can give yourself is to graduate from college with little or no debt. That way, you’ll hit the ground running when you take on the world as a new grad.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have an investment property that I’m planning to sell, but at the same time after I sell that, I was planning on paying off a mortgage at my primary residence. I was wondering if there are any tax advantages to doing that? I’m 71 and still working. I’m a widow and have my husband’s pension and my own social security that I’m drawing from so I’m in a good place with my income. I’m trying to play catch-up on my retirement to prepare for that and I max out my 401(k) and I’m doing fine there. Does it make sense if I take $7,000 out of savings to lump sum into an IRA before April 15th so that it co

Historical Context and Modern ImplicationsAfter crossing the Jordan into the promised land, the Israelites fought the battle of Jericho. Joshua was their leader, and the Lord gave them the victory. In Joshua 24, the general reminds his people of God’s faithfulness to them at Jericho and through their history. He ends by making that memorable statement of faith: “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”As Christians in a non-Christian culture, we are also called to take a stand. We can either choose to serve the gods of this world, or the Lord. It’s not easy for us, and it wasn’t easy for the Israelites. There were temptations everywhere to serve other Gods. That’s why Joshua reminds the people over and over, “Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Be strong and courageous.”In the New Testament, Paul echoes Joshua’s call to the Israelites in 1 Corinthians 16:13: “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” It takes courage, determination, and trust in the Lord to withstand the worldly desires and impulses that assault us every day.Facing Today's False GodsSo, what are some of the false gods we deal with today? Larry Burkett used to say that a false god is “anything that detours our commitment to God”. So, anything you focus on, depend on, or put your trust in other than the Lord is a false god, or an idol. Let’s look at a few of today’s idols:Financial Security can become an idol. You might be depending on your retirement plans, savings accounts, and investment income to see you through, but financial security won’t save you in the end.Another false god is government provision. Do you expect welfare programs, federal relief checks, or government handouts to meet your needs? These are only temporary fixes. God is your ultimate provider. For some folks, power is what they trust. Personal status, reputation, and financial influence might seem desirable, but these don’t have the power to bring peace.Another idol you’ll see everywhere is the idea of personal autonomy. “I did it my way” seems empowering. “Follow your own desires” looks appealing, and “I deserve this” feels right, but all of these represent a world view that puts you on the throne of your life. Selfishness and pride are sins that leave no room for the Lord.It’s possible to be strong in a worldly way, either physically, or by sheer human determination. But I don’t think that’s what Joshua meant when he challenged his people to “be strong and courageous”. True strength is defined by its source, and when the Lord is your source, your strength is from him. Our faith in God is our trust in him to be our strength in times of need.As it says in Psalm 20, God’s people can “rise up and stand firm”, because “we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” But what if you don’t choose to serve the Lord?Well, the consequences of trusting in false gods are severe. Throughout God’s word you’ll find warnings against bowing down to idols. Israel suffered God’s judgment many times for their unfaithfulness. On the other hand, there are many benefits to trusting the Lord instead of false gods.A Call To Choose ChristOne benefit is a closer walk with Christ. Following biblical principles in your financial choices means you’re listening closely to what God wants for you, reading His Word and trusting Christ to lead you. When you invite God into this important area of your life…you’ll begin to understand 1 Timothy 6, “godliness with contentment is great gain.”Another benefit that comes with trusting God in your finances is peace. When your financial choices are made “in Christ”, the result is peace, because God is in control. As it says in Romans 8:6, “The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.”While worldly desires and attitudes will lead people astray, pursuing God’s way in your financial life can bring spiritual growth. 1 Peter 2:1-3 gives this advice: “Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.”Another benefit to trusting God in your financial life is the blessing of generosity. When we give…willingly and generously…we are acknowledging God’s lordship over everything. 1 Chronicles 29:14 says, “…For everything is from you, and we only give you what we have received from you.” You can make your financial decisions according to God’s principles…or according to secular, worldly ideas. Like Joshua, you must “choose for yourself this day whom you will serve.” We pray that you will choose to serve Christ, and trust the Lord with everything.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I rolled over my previous annuity to a F&G annuity about two years ago. The way it was presented to me was that I was supposed to make some money and sadly it hasn’t grown at all. So I didn’t know whether to try to roll it into something else or what. I also have the ability to take out $20,000 a year

It's appropriate during this Easter season to reflect on the big picture of our Christian faith. Sometimes we just have our noses to the grindstone, so to speak, and we can lose sight of why we’re here and how much God has done for us!You know, whether you’re in a season of prosperity, or facing hardships, you have to remember that God is still on the throne and that your circumstances haven’t caught Him by surprise. His plan for the redemption of humankind is still on track.The Significance of Jesus’ SacrificeOf course, on Easter Sunday, Christians everywhere will rejoice in the resurrection of Christ…who conquered death and made a way to restore our relationship with God. But sometimes in that celebration … we might forget why Jesus had to die in the first place. The fact is, humankind is completely corrupted by sin. The rebellion that stains our hearts says, “I can choose for myself what is right and wrong, I don’t need God.” God’s Word confirms our sin nature.Job 15:16 declares that man is "abominable and corrupt," one who "drinks injustice like water". 1 Kings 8:46 quotes Solomon saying, "there is no one who does not sin". The apostle John warns in 1 John 1:8 that "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves". God’s Word in both the Old and New Testaments makes it very clear that sin has a price. God’s Law requires that those who break it be punished and that the punishment should be terrifying … an eternity in Hell.Hebrews 9:22 says, “... without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” And Romans 6:23, “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”Sin separates us from a holy God, so mankind needed someone sinless to do what we couldn’t do for ourselves – pay the price, which is death. In his love and mercy, God met our need by sending his only son to die in our place. Jesus, who is God made Man— took our sins upon Himself and carried them to the cross. His blood paid for our sins.The good news in this familiar story is that it doesn’t end with a cross and a grave.Gratitude, Joy & GenerosityOn Good Friday, we commemorate the love of God in sending His son to pay for our sin. We mourn with his followers who knelt at the foot of the cross in grief for their loss. And then there’s Easter. On Easter we celebrate the victory of the resurrection! Jesus rose from the dead, conquering death once and for all. In John 11:25 Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” So, we thank God for our present circumstances – good or bad – and His continued provision. But we must also have a deep sense of gratitude for God’s sacrificial love. We can also live in joyful hope of eternity because of His resurrection. Thanks to Jesus, our debt is stamped “paid in full,” and our relationship with the Lord is restored forever.As you contemplate the amazing love of God today, ask yourself this: how can you put your gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice into action?I believe one of the best ways is by keeping your eyes and ears open for opportunities to help those around you who may be suffering. Ask God to show you those in your church and the wider community who might need your help.God’s Word repeatedly tells us to help others in need. Look at Galatians 6:2, “Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”It can be difficult to be generous when your finances seem uncertain, but we know that giving breaks the power of money over us, so it’s the perfect antidote for our financial fears and anxieties. Giving is also a source of joy, because of the promise of heaven. Jesus experienced joy in his sacrifice, and we can experience it in ours. Hebrews 12:2 says, “For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”Christians should act differently than non-believers … and now is the perfect time to show just how different we can be … as we reflect God’s love in a broken and confused world. Matthew 5:16 says, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”So, with gratitude, joy, and generosity … that’s how we should respond during this Easter season and beyond. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have several investment properties in Florida but since the rates are so high right now, I haven’t been able to invest in others at the moment. Currently, I have money in high-yield savings accounts but are there any other investment vehicles you recommend while we wait for rates to go down? I heard about this program recently that allows you to consolidate debt while paying 0% interest. I’m 70-years-old and have about $25,000 in debt and would like to find out more information about how to get started. I’ve been working at a company for 4 years now and have been investing about $300 a month i

What should folks consider when making this decision?People should consider the following when deciding when to take Social Security benefits:Understanding that if they take benefits before full retirement age, they will be subject to a reductionDelaying past full retirement age means receiving an annual increase of 8% called a delayed retirement creditCash flow needs if retiring and replacing incomePaying down debtIncreasing charitable givingHealth and longevity in the family (impacting how long benefits may need to last)Legacy goals and inheritance, as Social Security benefits can't typically be passed on while portfolio assets can beIncome taxes, as Social Security could be subject to tax depending on other incomeOn Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Should I take $15,000 from my 401k to pay for home repairs like a furnace and AC replacement?Can I deduct the value of my own labor for maintenance and repairs on a rental property that I own? If I’ve invested in companies in the past who do things that I don’t agree with, am I ethically responsible for the things they do with that money?If I have a long term care plan for myself but not my husband, would that mean that Medicaid can take away all of our land and properties if he needed to be placed in a nursing home?Resources Mentioned:Christian Credit CounselorsNerdwalletFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. 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 work ethic, there’s nobody we like better–aside from Jesus, of course–than the woman described in Proverbs 31. We don’t know her name, but her actions and attitudes are worth studying and imitating…no matter what kind of work you do.A Biblical Work Ethic From Proverbs 31First, a note about Proverbs. It’s part of the “wisdom literature” found in the Old Testament. We refer to Proverbs a lot, since there are many nuggets of financial truth there. Proverbs 31 is the final chapter, and the description of the “woman of noble character” is written as a poem, with each line beginning with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet.Proverbs 31:10 introduces the “woman of noble character” who is “worth more than rubies”, because she sets the standard for trustworthiness and generosity towards her husband and all those around her. She’s also a top-notch businesswoman.Here are some of the characteristics that make the Proverbs 31 woman such a great example of a biblical work ethic.First, she “works with eager hands”. She has a positive attitude towards work, knowing that diligence can produce many benefits.Next, verse 15 tells us, “She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family…” The Bible makes it clear that providing for your family is a primary responsibility. She takes it very seriously.The Proverbs 31 woman is also a careful entrepreneur. In verse 16 “She considers a field and buys it…with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.” So, part of the biblical work ethic involves expertise – gaining useful skills and using them for the benefit of your family and community. In verse 17, “She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks”. Living and working well requires persistence and determination. You don’t reach your goals just sitting around watching YouTube! Proverbs 31 also offers us a picture of generosity in verse 20: “She opens her arms to the poor”. This woman of character is so successful in her work…that she is able to be generous with her surplus. Are you working just for yourself, or so you can help others also? Next, “…she speaks with wisdom…” in verse 26. A person of noble character uses their experience and authority to teach others. To put it another way, this woman’s work ethic is the “water that raises all boats”, because everyone benefits from her industry. It comes as no surprise in verse 27 that “she does not eat the bread of idleness”. It’s pretty clear that a biblical work ethic means NOT being lazy!Well, that’s an impossibly impressive resume, but I think the most important quality of a woman of noble character is that she follows and honors the Lord. Verse 30: “Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised”. She serves God first, and all her success springs from this priority.The Importance Of RestYou might look at this biblical portrait of a godly worker and wonder how she does it all. She’s running a farm, marketing her products, teaching, mentoring, and taking care of a household at the same time. I think we have to understand that this is a portrait of virtue at work…not a blueprint for what you have to do next week.Another point I’d like to make here is about “rest”. It might not look like the Proverbs 31 woman got much of that…but her success points to the fact that she did know when to go and when to stop.God does call us to work – for His Kingdom, for our families, and for the community – with the same commitment we see in the Proverbs 31 woman. We work to pay the bills, to give, to save, and to invest, as she did. It’s part of how God has made us. But work isn’t all there is. We need to rest sometimes, too.Perhaps you find things moving too fast in your life. Working late nights and weekends might seem necessary, but burning the candle at both ends is ultimately unproductive. You’ll find that exhaustion leaves no energy for the most important things –time with the Lord and relationships with others. You don’t have to go full throttle all the time. But if you are feeling overwhelmed, be comforted by the words of Jesus in Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”We can learn a lot from the Proverbs 31 woman about what it means to live with personal and financial integrity. I encourage you to read Proverbs 31 today and consider how you can apply a biblical work ethic to your life and work.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:What are the differences between prepaid cards and credit cards? How does that compare to a secured credit card? I’ve come into about $20,000 recently and I’m trying to figure out how to best invest it. What are your suggestions? I’m currently on Federal Workers Comp and I’m wondering if I’ll be able to draw social security when that time comes if I’m still on Workers Comp. I have a friend who has not paid her taxes for five years. How would that affect her children’s inheritance and what steps can

Disappointment is inevitable, but discouragement is a choice.People love to look into the future. We all have hopes, and dreams, and expectations about what we want our life to be. So, we make plans. Plans to save, serve, build a family, work, travel, learn, grow…you name it. Planning is part of what it takes to make our dreams come true. And there’s nothing wrong with planning. Planning is an important part of being a good steward of whatever God has entrusted to you.But here's the problem. Our plans don’t always succeed. Dreams fail. Expectations go unmet. And then, disappointment happens…maybe more than we want to admit.Perhaps you invested your savings…but now inflation is killing your returns.Or you worked hard to start a business, but it still isn’t making a profit.You planned for your marriage to last…only to experience an expensive divorce.Maybe you’ve been working towards that promotion…but someone else got the job.Or, you planned to have a big nest egg when you retire…but health issues have reduced your savings.And then there’s always the disappointment of finding your adult child living in your basement when you thought they were going to be financially independent.How Do You Handle the Disappointments and Unmet Expectations You Face?Financial disappointments can cause some people to shake their fist at God and lose faith. Others might become discouraged, depressed or apathetic. Sometimes, disappointment leads to broken relationships. Stress and anxiety are common responses when our plans fail. In fact, the more important we think something is, the more upset we are when our expectations aren’t met.It’s not sinful to feel disappointed. But your reaction to disappointments can become sin if you’re not careful. According to God’s word, discouragement, anger, unforgiveness, bitterness, and fear are all sinful attitudes. Ephesians 4:31 warns about them: “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you.”So, you can respond to disappointment with discouragement, anger, fear, or apathy…or you can take a more positive approach…realizing that unmet expectations are often God’s way of leading you in a new direction. Just look at how many disappointed people there are in the Bible, and see how God worked in their lives.Like Sarah and Hannah, who couldn’t have children. Or Joseph, whose brothers sold him into slavery. Or imagine how Jesus must have felt when Judas betrayed him. But the Lord had amazing plans for these unmet expectations: Sarah and Hannah ultimately had children who changed the world. Joseph saved his people. Jesus saved us all.Here’s another thought: Your response to the disappointments in your own life can be a powerful witness to those around you. Maybe this isn’t the way you thought your life would turn out…but God can use your unmet expectations…for your good and his glory.A Godly Approach To Financial DisappointmentsWhen life doesn’t go your way, it’s common to look for someone to blame. Instead, ask God to help you forgive the people who’ve hurt you. Begin to pray for the strength to live through your difficult circumstances. In addition, recognize that it may be time to let go of your expectations, and ask God to show you his plans. People and circumstances are unreliable, but Hebrews 13:8 reminds us that Jesus is the same yesterday and today and forever. The Lord is always loving, faithful, and just.The bottom line? God never fails. You can trust him, even in the midst of your deepest disappointments, when big expectations come to nothing, and people let you down. God will make a way for you every time. It might not be what you expect, but it will be good. Hold on to what’s true, from Romans 8:28: we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.The late Charles Stanley, a faithful preacher of God’s truth for many years, said this about disappointment: “Disappointment is inevitable. But to become discouraged, there's a choice I make. God would never discourage me. He would always point me to himself to trust him.”On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I am 75 and my husband is 76 and we are retired. Recently we went to one of the marketplaces for our supplemental health insurance coverage and while there, the agent recommended that we get this hospital benefit that would pay extra money should we ever be hospitalized. It sounded good at first but now as I’m second guessing it, I’m not sure if it was timely or wise. Any thoughts? I’m calling on behalf of my brother who is in about $40,000 in credit card debt with about a 30% interest rate. He makes about $900 a week and his minimum payments are about $1300 a month. He’s looked at bankruptcy as well as national debt relief programs, do you have any ideas on how he can realistically pay down this debt? I’m 65 years old and financially secure. I want to do something for my grandson who will be two years old in August. Howe

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” - Proverbs 3:5-6Why are people so worried about the economy these days?Part of the issue is concern about a number of factors, including the upcoming US election, high inflation, high interest rates, and various geopolitical issues like what's happening with China/Taiwan, Ukraine, and the Middle East.How are people dealing with this uncertainty?Uncertainty for many people leads to fear, especially for those on a fixed budget or struggling financially.Fear can cause people to become either indecisive with money or take ill-advised financial risks by forgetting whose money they are stewarding.How do you help people who are struggling with economic uncertainty? Get back to the basics and focus on the things that are within our control. Pray and ask God for insight on ways you can trust Him more in your finances.Look to Scripture for guidance, such as Deuteronomy 8 which talks about God's purpose for us in times of crisis, and 1 Corinthians 7:7 which discusses God's role in providing and our responsibility to obey his commands regarding finances.On a practical level: tightening budgets, reducing spending, paying down debt, and building emergency funds during uncertain times helps tremendously as well.What about someone who might not be thinking about the future at all?There could be an opposite issue - if their investments are doing well and markets have recovered, there could be some greed or pride setting in where they think "I did this."Stay balanced, remain committed to your financial plan, and most of all, stay humble.Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us that it is God who gives the power to get wealth, not ourselves.What resources would you recommend for those who want to trust God more in their finances during times of economic uncertainty? Compass has partnered with YouVersion to provide a series of short, topical Reading Plans to help you learn, apply, and multiply what the Bible says about money and possessions.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Because of the devaluation of the dollar with the BRICS situation right now and the implications that may have for our 401(k) accounts, what can I invest in or look at to protect us from losing our money? Should we invest in gold or other things so that we don’t lose anything?What resources can you point me towards if I’d like to lead a small group at my church on the subject of managing finances God’s way?What are the differences between a TSP and a Roth IRA? Are there differences in how you can use the money or when you can take it out?My husband recently passed away and he was always a very good steward of our finances. I don’t have a house payment or any other bills, but I have a very large sum of money that has come to me after his death. Everything else we had prior to his death has been invested and I don’t know if I should be investing in annuities or take that money and split it up. What should I do with it?Resources Mentioned:Building Your Finances God’s Way: A Financial Discipleship Study (Compass)Wise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan, JD, CFP®Find a Certified Kingdom AdvisorFaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CONSIDERING THE FUTURE POST-HIGH SCHOOLRob discusses the pressure high school seniors and their parents face concerning post-secondary education and emphasizes the importance of aligning educational choices with financial realities. He stresses the goal of avoiding college debt through early savings, exploring scholarships, and considering alternatives to a four-year college, such as technical schools, online courses, and military service.Financial planning for education should begin early, incorporating discussions about affordability and scholarships.Exploring educational alternatives can provide viable paths that align with career goals and financial constraints.Completing the FAFSA is essential for all college-bound students to assess eligibility for financial aid, regardless of expected qualification. PREPARING FOR THE COLLEGE TRANSITIONTransitioning to college is a significant step for students and parents alike. Rob advises parents to discuss with their children the costs and values of education, the importance of academic success, available school resources, and the necessity of budgeting and managing credit responsibly. He also highlights the importance of instilling moral and financial values as students step into greater independence.Understanding the cost-value ratio of education and encouraging part-time employment can foster responsibility.Academic success is closely tied to career opportunities, emphasizing the importance of educational achievements.Discussing budgeting and credit card use is crucial to prevent financial missteps during college years. NAVIGATING POST-COLLEGE TRANSITIONS AND BOOMERANG KIDSRob touches on the challenges young adults face in transitioning to the workforce and the reality of "boomerang kids" who return home due to economic pressures. He cites statistics indicating an increase in multigenerational households and suggests ways to make this arrangement work, such as sharing household expenses, setting clear expectations, and encouraging financial independence.Letting go is a necessary part of parenting, allowing children to grow into independent adults.Trusting in God's care for their children can ease parents' concerns during these transitions, fostering faith and resilience in the face of change. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm interested in making additional payments to my mortgage and wondering if making small extra payments monthly has the same impact as making a larger yearly principal-only payment.I'm looking to invest $20,000 for my grandson's future and want something hands-off and tax-efficient, considering mutual funds or indexes.I'm 69 years old with about $300,000 in a 401(k) and am considering an annuity with a lifetime benefit. I'm also concerned about long-term care options as I have no children and am divorced.I'm 72, still working, and have a Thrift Savings Plan. I'm wondering if I'm required to take the Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) while I'm still employed. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Principal Reduction CalculatorFind a Certified Kingdom AdvisorSchwab Intelligent PortfoliosNational Christian Foundation Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.” Luke 12:21Chad Clark is Executive Director here at FaithFi, and over the last several months our team has been working on a brand new 4-week study on the Parable of the Rich Fool called Rich Toward God. INTRODUCTION TO THE "RICH TOWARD GOD" STUDYThe "Rich Toward God '' study emerges from FaithFi’s mission to equip Christians with tools and resources for integrating faith with financial decisions, aiming to help believers see God as their ultimate treasure. The parable of the rich fool serves as an ideal starting point, prompting us to contemplate what it truly means to be "rich toward God."The study seeks to explore the integration of faith and financial decisions.It aims to inspire Christians to see God as their most valuable treasure.The parable of the rich fool is used as a foundational narrative to examine concepts of true wealth in God's eyes. EXPLORATION OF KEY THEMES IN THE STUDYThe "Rich Toward God" study delves into the historical and biblical context of the parable, emphasizing the importance of understanding the backdrop against which Jesus shared this teaching. It unpacks several key themes:1. True Abundance: Investigating the biblical perspective on abundance, contrasting worldly accumulation with spiritual wealth.2. Pride and Prosperity: Examining how the rich fool's pride in his possessions offers a mirror for personal reflection on our attitudes towards wealth and success.3. Uncertainty of Tomorrow: Addressing the tension between planning for the future and acknowledging life's unpredictability, emphasizing reliance on God rather than wealth.4. Being Rich Toward God: The study culminates in exploring what it means to prioritize God above all else, storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth.Each theme encourages deep personal reflection and group discussion, offering a strong understanding of the parable's teachings. PRACTICAL APPLICATION AND USAGE OF THE STUDYDesigned for versatility, the "Rich Toward God" study is suitable for individual use, couples, families, or small groups. Its structure facilitates personal devotion, family discussions, or community learning, making it accessible and applicable to a wide audience.Encourages application in various settings: personal study, family time, or small groups.Designed to foster personal growth, communal learning, and spiritual reflection. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm coming into a significant inheritance and am considering setting up a donor-advised fund to manage my charitable giving more efficiently and want to understand how it works and its advantages.I'm contemplating selling 20 feet of my property to a neighbor and need guidance on determining fair market value, tax implications, and legal steps for properly severing and selling this parcel of land.At 48, I'm considering withdrawing money from my Roth IRA to buy a new car due to high loan interest rates, but I'm concerned about losing out on future tax-free growth and whether this is a wise financial decision. RESOURCES MENTIONED:National Christian Foundation for setting up a donor-advised fund.Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WHAT DOES BIBLICAL HOSPITALITY LOOK LIKE IN TODAY'S CULTURE?Sharon reflects on the biblical instruction to show hospitality, emphasizing its relevance beyond traditional notions of entertaining. Hospitality is an act of generosity and kindness, extending warmth and generosity to both guests and strangers alike. This understanding encourages us to reconsider hospitality as acting as God's ambassadors.Hospitality transcends formal dining and embraces the simple, generous reception of others.It's an expression of generosity, serving as a means to fulfill our role as ambassadors for Christ.Personal experiences underscore the profound impact hospitality can have during challenging times, illustrating its power to provide support and comfort. HOW DOES 'UNREASONABLE HOSPITALITY' TRANSFORM EXPERIENCES?Drawing inspiration from Will Guidara's book "Unreasonable Hospitality," Sharon highlights how exceeding expectations in hospitality can create memorable and personalized experiences. Guidara's approach to making every guest feel like a VIP through tailored service and attention to detail serves as a model for extending hospitality that goes beyond what seems sensible, focusing on celebrating others and recognizing their uniqueness."Unreasonable Hospitality" involves stretching the limits to provide a remarkable experience.It's about making guests feel celebrated and special, not through extravagant means but through thoughtful, personalized attention.This approach fosters a mindset of celebrating the smallest details that contribute to making someone feel valued and cared for. WHAT ARE THE OUTCOMES OF EXTENDING 'UNREASONABLE HOSPITALITY'?Embracing unreasonable hospitality leads to several positive outcomes, including demonstrating love in recognizable ways, fostering selflessness, creating a safe and calm environment, deepening fellowship, and filling us with joy. Sharon underscores how such hospitality aligns with our inherent design to give and receive joy through acts of kindness and generosity.Shows love in a manner that is palpable and meaningful to each individual.Encourages selflessness and generosity, moving beyond self-interest to cater to the needs of others.Provides a rare safe space in today's culture, allowing for genuine expression and comfort. CHALLENGE FOR EMBRACING UNREASONABLE HOSPITALITYSharon challenges listeners to consider how they can use their unique gifts to meet the specific needs of others. This challenge prompts us to think creatively about how we can share our talents, interests, and resources in ways that uniquely benefit those around us, further extending the reach and impact of hospitality in our communities.Encourages reflection on how personal gifts can be utilized to serve others in meaningful ways.Suggests identifying common interests or needs that can serve as a basis for extending hospitality.Motivates individuals to act on opportunities to share and serve, reinforcing the connection between hospitality and generosity. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:As a 57-year-old nearing retirement with a portfolio heavily invested in stocks, I'm contemplating how much to shift into safer investments like government bonds or T-bills to rebalance my 401(k).I need dental work totaling $5,500 and am considering different payment methods since the dentist requires upfront payment, but I want to avoid high-interest healthcare credit cards.At 99 years old, my mother is still paying for life insurance, and I'm wondering whether it's necessary to continue those payments or if there are more practical options regarding her burial expenses and potential cash value of the policy.As a 64-year-old "solo ager" or "elder orphan" without dependents, I'm setting up my estate plan but struggle to find a Power of Attorney for property management, considering a lawyer or a corporate trustee as potential solutions. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mark Biller is Executive Editor at Sound Mind Investing, a longtime underwriter of this program. WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF A RETIREMENT PLANNING CHECKLIST?Comparing retirement planning to a preflight checklist underscores the critical importance of preparation. Just as pilots meticulously ensure the safety of their flight, individuals approaching retirement need to assess various aspects of their financial life to ensure a smooth transition into retirement. This analogy highlights the need for thoroughness and attention to detail in retirement planning, especially for those within a decade of their planned retirement date.A retirement planning checklist serves as a comprehensive review to ensure all financial aspects are in order for a secure retirement.Such preparation is crucial for a safe transition to a post-paycheck lifestyle, minimizing potential financial turbulence.The checklist approach encourages individuals to address and rectify any financial concerns well before retirement, promoting peace of mind. HOW DO YOU DETERMINE YOUR INTENDED RETIREMENT AGE?Setting an intended retirement age is the foundational step in retirement planning. This decision, while seemingly straightforward, involves complex considerations including personal health, job satisfaction, income needs, and eligibility for health insurance benefits. It’s a deeply personal choice that requires introspection, prayer, and discussion, particularly for those in a partnership.Choosing a retirement date involves weighing personal preferences, financial readiness, and health considerations.It’s advisable to seek divine guidance and engage in open discussions with a spouse to align on future expectations.Retirement age, while influenced by societal norms, should ultimately reflect one’s unique life circumstances and aspirations. WHAT FACTORS INFLUENCE THE REALISM OF YOUR RETIREMENT AGE?A notable gap often exists between the age people intend to retire and when they actually do, primarily due to unforeseen health issues or family obligations. Despite many workers aiming to retire past 65, reality shows a majority retire earlier. This discrepancy emphasizes the importance of flexible retirement planning, accounting for potential early retirement due to health declines or caregiving responsibilities.Statistics reveal a disparity between expected and actual retirement ages, suggesting many are overly optimistic about working into their late 60s.Planning for an earlier retirement age than desired can provide a financial safety net, allowing for adjustments if circumstances change.Acknowledging the unpredictability of future health and caregiving needs is crucial in setting a realistic retirement timeline. WHY IS ESTIMATING A RETIREMENT BUDGET CRUCIAL?Developing a retirement budget involves estimating future expenses and income to ensure financial stability in retirement. This task can be complex, as certain costs may decrease (e.g., commuting expenses) while others, like healthcare or leisure activities, might increase. Understanding these shifts is vital for creating a budget that reflects the changing nature of expenses through the retirement years.Accurately estimating retirement expenses is critical for financial planning, acknowledging that some costs will decrease while others may rise.It’s important to consider the evolving nature of retirement expenses, from active early years to potentially more sedentary later years, and plan for healthcare costs accordingly.Regularly revisiting and adjusting the retirement budget is recommended to reflect real-world spending and income changes. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF BEING DEBT-FREE AT RETIREMENTAchieving a debt-free status by retirement significantly enhances financial freedom and reduces stress. This goal includes paying off mortgages, car loans, and any other debts. A debt-free retirement simplifies cash flow management, allowing for a focus on living expenses and leisure activities without the burden of debt repayments.Eliminating debt before retirement is crucial for optimizing retirement income and minimizing financial stress.Strategies such as accelerated mortgage payments can ensure debt obligations are fulfilled before retirement, offering peace of mind.Being debt-free enhances the ability to enjoy retirement fully, with more resources available for travel, hobbies, and unforeseen expenses. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:At 31, having had several jobs with different retirement benefits, I'm struggling to keep track of all my money and wonder if I should get a financial advisor to help with a financial plan and investment strategy.Owning multiple properties in different states, I'm considering how best to leave them to my children and wonder if a will or a trust would be more appropriate for efficient wealth transfer. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Fam

Shaun Morgan is the Director of Product Marketing at Eventide Asset Management, an underwriter of this program. IS THERE A NEED TO REBRAND "FAITH-BASED INVESTING"?Shaun Morgan discusses the ambiguous understanding of "Faith-Based Investing" among investors who consider faith important in their lives. Eventide's survey reveals that terms like "Values-Based Investing" and "Faith-Based Investing" often lead to neutral or unfamiliar responses, suggesting a gap in communication and understanding.The term "Faith-Based Investing" does not resonate strongly with many, even those who prioritize their faith.A survey indicates a general lack of awareness and understanding about investing terms related to faith and values.Neutral responses to these terms suggest a need for clearer definitions and more effective communication. WHAT INSIGHTS DID THE SURVEY PROVIDE ABOUT INVESTORS' PREFERENCES?The survey unearthed significant preferences among investors for companies aligned with their values, particularly regarding unethical practices. A substantial majority expressed willingness to divest from companies involved in objectionable activities, such as profiting from pornography or exploiting child labor.Many respondents were unaware of terms like "Faith-Based Investing," yet showed a clear preference for ethically aligned investments.Specific concerns, such as exploitation and unethical business practices, elicited strong reactions and a willingness to act.The feedback suggests a latent demand for investment options that are more closely aligned with personal and ethical values. HOW DO INVESTORS FEEL ABOUT CHANGING FINANCIAL ADVISORS FOR VALUE ALIGNMENT?Surprisingly, a significant portion of investors indicated they would change financial advisors to access investments that align with their values. This willingness underscores a substantial gap in the current advisory landscape, where many advisors may not adequately address their clients' desires for values-aligned investing.A notable percentage of investors would consider switching advisors for better alignment with their values.The survey revealed that many advisors do not discuss values-based or faith-based investing options with their clients.This finding suggests a strong, unmet demand for financial advice that incorporates personal values and ethical considerations. WHAT ARE THE KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR FINANCIAL ADVISORS?The survey offers critical insights for financial advisors on approaching the topic of values-based and faith-based investing with their clients. It highlights the importance of not assuming clients are familiar with these concepts and suggests that engaging in meaningful conversations about values in investing can deepen client relationships.Financial advisors should proactively discuss values-aligned investing options with their clients.There is a significant educational gap among both investors and advisors regarding faith-based and values-based investing.Advisors who address this gap and actively engage clients on values-aligned investing may enhance client satisfaction and loyalty. CONCLUSIONThis survey gives us insight into how advisors can talk to investors about "faith-based" or "values-based" investing. Overall, Eventide figured out that these terms carry a lot more weight when you describe what they mean.But people DO care about what they are investing in, and advisors can really show that they care about their clients by having these conversations with them. DISCLOSURE: Based on a survey of 1,479 respondents who self-identified as committed Christians (defined as having a Christian faith that is important in their life), ages 30+, with a minimum $100K investable assets or $75K household income. 54% of respondents indicate they have a financial advisor. 62% of respondents who have a financial advisor would be willing to change financial advisors in order to get access to investments that align with their values. The survey was conducted by Pinkston, on behalf of Eventide, in October 2023. Third-party sources referenced herein have not been independently verified, nor is Eventide affiliated with any third-parties referenced, unless otherwise noted. Eventide has not independently verified the accuracy or completeness of third-party information. There can be no assurances that the information is accurate or complete. The information is subject to change without notice. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm 73, raising my 8-year-old granddaughter, and want to know the best way to grow the money left by my parents for her college, considering a 529 or other options.I'm retired with my husband, and we've been saving cash; I'm concerned about the potential for a digital dollar and what it means for our savings.At 65 and nearing retirement, my wife and I are debt-free, and I'm wondering if we still need life insurance. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Saving for CollegeSchwab Intelligent PortfoliosFaithFiSound Mind Investing Remember, you can call i

THE DANGER OF MATERIALISM AND FINDING CONTENTMENT IN GODMaterialism contradicts God's plan for His people by prioritizing the love of material things over loving God. This attitude can hinder our relationship with Him and rob us of peace. The Bible, in Ecclesiastes 2:11, warns us of the futility in pursuing material wealth, emphasizing that everything is meaningless without God. LIE #1: LIFE IS BETTER WITH MOREThis mindset leads to an endless cycle of discontentment as no amount of wealth can truly satisfy.Ecclesiastes 5:10 states that those who love money will never have enough, illustrating the emptiness of materialism.Contentment is the biblical answer to this lie, as Hebrews 13:5 urges us to be content with what we have, reminding us of God's constant presence and provision. LIE #2: YOU MUST KEEP UP WITH OTHERSThe desire to match others' possessions is a trap that leads to envy and unhappiness.Matthew 6:33 advises seeking God's kingdom first, assuring that our needs will be met when we prioritize Him over worldly desires.True peace comes from knowing Jesus and finding satisfaction in His righteousness rather than in material possessions. LIE #3: IT'S UNFAIR WHEN OTHERS HAVE MOREBlaming others for one's circumstances combines discontentment with a lack of personal responsibility.First John 3:22 reminds us that God blesses obedience and a life pleasing to Him, offering an alternative to the self-pity associated with materialism.Trusting God to provide for our needs helps us overcome feelings of unfairness related to others' wealth. A HEALTHY PERSPECTIVE ON MATERIAL POSSESSIONSWhile desiring things is not inherently sinful, it's crucial to maintain a healthy attitude towards money and possessions.Differentiating between wants and needs allows for responsible spending and reliance on God for provision.Implementing a spending plan and waiting on purchases can shift desires and help distinguish between necessities and luxuries.Material possessions are part of life, but our desires for them reflect the condition of our hearts. Avoiding materialism involves prioritizing our relationship with God and finding contentment in His promises and provision. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:My sister is contesting our parents' will, which leaves everything to me. I've been financially burdened by legal fees and my cancer diagnosis. I'm trying to find a way forward but feel lost and my faith is shaken.I'm interested in buying land but don't have the cash available. I have substantial retirement savings, and my financial advisor suggested using a portion of it without major consequences. I'm seeking advice on whether this is a wise move considering my retirement plans. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Find a Certified Kingdom AdvisorFaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Carolyn Calupca on the program was a long time senior producer at Crown Financial Ministries where she worked closely with Larry Burkett for many years. She’s now a frequent contributor here at Faith and Finance and the author of our new 4-week study guide, Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool. WHAT IS THE HISTORICAL CONTEXT OF THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL?Jesus delivers this parable in 33 AD, during a time of significant political and spiritual tension in Judea under Roman rule. As Jesus moves toward Jerusalem for the last time, he attracts a large following, drawn by his authoritative teaching and miraculous deeds. Amidst his teachings on judgment and preparation, an individual interrupts to seek Jesus' mediation in a familial inheritance dispute.The setting is marked by societal unrest and anticipation for spiritual guidance.Jesus' teachings captivate thousands, highlighting his unique authority and the miracles he performs.The request for arbitration on an inheritance matter presents a moment of personal concern amidst broader spiritual teachings. WHY IS THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL RELEVANT TODAY?Jesus' teachings are timeless, addressing the core issues of the human heart, which remains unchanged. The parable of the rich fool is particularly poignant in today's materialistic society, where the accumulation of possessions often overshadows spiritual richness.The human heart's condition and its inclinations have remained constant throughout history.Modern society mirrors the parable’s theme with its focus on accumulating material wealth.Jesus' message challenges individuals to examine the true source of satisfaction and richness in life. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE 'RICH TOWARD GOD'?Being rich toward God entails prioritizing a relationship with God over material wealth and possessions. Unlike the rich fool, who focused solely on his earthly treasures, being rich toward God means acknowledging His sovereignty and utilizing His blessings to serve others rather than oneself.Treasuring God above all material possessions and successes.Recognizing and giving credit to God for all blessings, contrasting the rich fool's self-centeredness.Utilizing God's resources to serve others, highlighting a shift from self-service to serving God and community. HOW CAN THE STUDY "RICH TOWARD GOD" HELP GOD'S PEOPLE?The study "Rich Toward God" encourages introspection on personal values and priorities, guiding individuals toward a deeper understanding of what truly satisfies the soul. It asks probing questions about one's deepest needs, the pursuit of abundance, and the journey to becoming rich toward God.Encourages self-examination of one's deepest needs and sources of true satisfaction.Guides individuals on a reflective journey to discover how to become genuinely rich toward God.Offers practical questions and insights to facilitate personal spiritual growth and reevaluation of life's priorities. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm considering a reverse mortgage for my home valued at $200,000 and want to know if I qualify and the benefits.I want to place an alert on inherited property to be notified if someone tries to sell it or use it as collateral.I have my savings sitting in cash within a Fidelity account after losing money during the pandemic. I'm 71 and need to know about required minimum distributions for this year.As newlyweds living debt-free in a tiny house, my husband and I are looking for advice on saving for a larger home to start our family, considering our modest beginnings and desire for financial literacy. RESOURCES MENTIONED:FidelityBankrate for emergency savings tips.FaithFi App for tracking monthly expenses and budgeting. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVE IN ESTATE PLANNINGA Health Care Directive, also recognized as a living will, Medical Directive, or Durable Health Care Power of Attorney, is an indispensable legal document outlining your medical care preferences when you're unable to communicate. It plays a critical role in estate planning, ensuring your medical and end-of-life wishes are honored. KEY COMPONENTS OF A HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVE:Understanding Its Purpose: A Health Care Directive specifies your wishes for medical treatment, end-of-life care, and the handling of your remains, eliminating uncertainty for your family during difficult times.Choosing an Agent: Select a trusted individual, whether a family member or a friend, to act on your behalf, ensuring your healthcare decisions are respected if you're incapacitated.Specifying Your Wishes: Clearly articulate your medical treatment preferences, end-of-life care, and post-mortem arrangements, providing clarity and preventing potential conflicts among family members.Communicating With Your Family: Openly discuss your Health Care Directive with your family, explaining your decisions to ensure understanding and reduce the likelihood of disputes. BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES ON PLANNING AND WISDOM:The concept of a Health Care Directive aligns with Biblical teachings on wisdom, stewardship, and preparing for the future. Proverbs 13:22 states, "A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.” A Health Care Directive is a practical expression of this wisdom, ensuring that your healthcare wishes are known and respected, ultimately serving as a form of inheritance by providing peace and guidance to your loved ones. THE PROCESS OF CREATING A HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVE:- Step 1: Select an agent who understands your values and wishes.- Step 2: Detail your medical treatment preferences and end-of-life care decisions.- Step 3: Discuss your directive thoroughly with your agent and family to ensure your wishes are understood and can be faithfully executed. CONCLUSION:Creating a Health Care Directive is an act of wisdom and stewardship, reflecting careful planning for the future. It ensures that your values and desires regarding medical treatment and end-of-life care are upheld, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones. As followers of Christ, we are called to manage God's gifts wisely, and preparing a Health Care Directive is a responsible step in honoring that calling. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm debating whether to roll my TSA into a 403(b) and if a 403(b) is considered an annuity.I have $1,000 to invest and want to know the best place to grow it, considering I already have an emergency fund and retirement savings.At 77 years old, I'm contemplating selling my property in East Texas and am concerned about how capital gains tax will affect me.My FICO score dropped from "excellent" to "very good," and I'm unsure why this happened and if I should be concerned.I'm trying to exit a timeshare that we've sunk a lot of money into, including a large fee to a company promising to help us get out, but we're still waiting for resolution. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Edward JonesSound Mind InvestingAnnualCreditReport.comTUG - Timeshare Users Group Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

SPIRITUAL BOTTOM LINE OVER FINANCIAL CONCERNS:The true "bottom line" for believers in Jesus is our identity in Christ, providing us peace and assurance that our sins are paid for, as highlighted in the hymn "Jesus paid it all." This foundational truth encourages believers to rest in God's role as protector and provider, alleviating worries about financial matters. SCRIPTURAL ENCOURAGEMENTS AGAINST WORRY:Matthew 6: Jesus teaches not to worry about material needs, emphasizing God's provision for all creation, thus underscoring our value and God's care for us over our material concerns. Numbers 23:19: Highlights God's unchangeable and trustworthy nature, contrasting human unreliability with God's steadfast promise-keeping. Romans 8:31: Reminds us of God's omnipotence and support. Nothing can stand against us when God is on our side. EXAMPLES OF GOD'S PROTECTION AND POWER:2 Kings 6: The story of Elisha and his servant illustrates God's overwhelming power and protection, revealing that divine forces always outnumber and outmatch earthly challenges. CONCLUSION: TRUST IN GOD'S PROVISION:As followers of Christ, we're encouraged to shift focus from our financial insecurities to the reliability and strength of our God, ensuring peace and confidence. Our financial bottom line is secondary to our spiritual standing in Christ, offering an opportunity to deepen our trust in God's provision and care. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:My 16-year-old daughter spends all her earnings on gifts for friends and pets; how can I guide her towards better financial habits without taking control of her money?I inherited a condo with my siblings and need to buy them out. Is it wise to withdraw from my 401(k) to pay them or try to get a loan, given the condo's age and owner occupancy level?Considering the performance of precious metals versus stocks in recent years, would it be wise to allocate more of my investment portfolio to precious metals?I have a dormant 401(k) from a past employer and will soon receive an Army Reserve retirement check. Should I roll the 401(k) into an IRA or Roth IRA, and how should I manage it? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Open Hands FinanceMovement MortgageFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WILL BASICS:A will is a simpler document that names an executor and beneficiaries.It must go through probate court and becomes public record, potentially delaying heirs' access to assets.Drafting a will through an estate attorney is recommended to minimize probate delays, typically costing around $500. TRUST BASICS:Trusts manage assets both before and after death, bypassing probate and keeping transactions private.Types include revocable (living) and irrevocable trusts, with the former being alterable during the grantor's lifetime.Trusts can designate a successor trustee to manage assets if the grantor becomes incapacitated, ensuring continuity and privacy. KEY REASONS FOR A WILL:Designating a guardian for minor children to avoid court-appointed guardianships.Disinheriting individuals or managing how minors receive assets.A will only takes effect after death, whereas a trust operates both during the grantor's life and after. ADVANTAGES OF A TRUST:Avoids probate, keeping estate management private and efficient.Allows for immediate successor trustee management if the grantor is incapacitated.Provides specific management of assets for minors or those deemed incapable of responsible financial management. CONCLUSION:Both a will and a trust may be necessary for comprehensive estate planning, especially for those with minor children or a preference for privacy and control over asset distribution. Consulting with a state attorney, preferably with a Certified Kingdom Advisor designation for alignment with Christian values, is advised for drafting these essential documents. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:My husband wants to sell our house in Florida for a profit, invest some in stocks, and live on the rest with our Social Security in North Carolina, but I'm concerned about moving and leaving my elderly parents.I have savings in a credit union and am considering moving to a regular bank to see my money grow; I'm looking for advice on making this transition effectively.Is it advisable to leave my wife's 401(k) with her former employer, where it's invested in a target retirement fund, or should we move it to an IRA with a similar investment strategy? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Find a Certified Kingdom AdvisorBankrateChristian Community Credit Union Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

LLC, or Limited Liability Company. This business structure protects you from personal responsibility for the company’s debts or liabilities. An LLC gives you protection from debt collectors and lawsuits involving the company, just as a corporation would. But unlike a corporation, the LLC allows what’s called “flow through” for tax purposes. The LLC doesn’t pay corporate income taxes. The company’s profits and losses (or deductions) are passed on to the members of the LLC. With an LLC it’s easier to set up than a corporation . An LLC may have to be dissolved if a member dies or files for bankruptcy. The ownership or equity stake of an LLC cannot be publicly traded. But for many folks starting a business, forming an LLC is a great way to get started.C-corp … the C-corp is different from LLC as it does not allow a “flow through” treatment of profits and losses for tax purposes. A C-corp is subject to corporate income taxation. A C-corp requires you to hold annual meetings and have a board of directors that’s voted on by shareholders. A benefit to a C-corp is that it lives beyond the life of an individual owner, since they have many owners called shareholders. C-corp also allows for passive income for the shareholdersS-corp … This structure has the best features of both the LLC and the C-corp. The S-corp provides you with liability protection, but also allows you to pass profits and losses directly to shareholders, so you’re only taxed once.The S-corp avoids the double taxation inherent in the C-corp. Filing as an S corp can also reduce personal income taxes for the business owners, by characterizing money they receive from the business as salary or dividends to owners. Those are the advantages and disadvantages of the 3 most common company structures … just in case you’re thinking about starting your own business one day. On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions:Jordan from Florida has investments with Fidelity and Vangaurd, and he wants to know which one is better.Sherilynn from Idaho recently was widowed and has sold a house and bought another cheaper one and wants to know what is the best way to invest her funds.Ann in Akron is looking for a used car and wondering if this is a better time to buy.Dora has a small ira, and would like to give some to her church, and is curious about the qualified charitable distributions. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Also, visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE AND ESTATE PLANNINGProverbs 13:16 highlights the importance of acting with knowledge in all aspects of life, including the preparation for inevitable events like death. This preparation involves legal, financial, and personal readiness to ensure your wishes are honored and your loved ones are cared for. IMPORTANCE OF UPDATED WILLS AND DIRECTIVESHaving updated wills is critical to ensure your wishes are followed after your death, with legal powers of attorney and health care directives being equally important.An estate attorney is necessary to prepare these documents, representing an essential investment in your family's future well-being. PREPARING FOR YOUR MEMORIAL SERVICE OR FUNERALOrganizing instructions for your memorial service or funeral is a considerate way to help your family and friends start the grieving process, ensuring your wishes are respected. CREATING ESSENTIAL LISTSCompile a list of all your financial accounts, including bank accounts, investments, credit cards, mortgages, retirement accounts, outstanding loans, and pensions, and keep this list updated.Make a list of contacts who need to be informed about your death, including family, friends, financial institutions, government agencies, and any other organizations you're associated with. UPDATING BENEFICIARY DESIGNATIONSRegularly update the beneficiary designations on all your accounts to ensure they align with your current wishes. ENSURING ACCESS TO IMPORTANT DOCUMENTSEnsure someone you trust knows where to find all your important documents, ideally making this information accessible to your spouse if you're married. JOINT OWNERSHIP AND TRANSFER ON DEATH ARRANGEMENTSWork with an estate attorney to arrange for major assets to be owned jointly or transferred upon death to avoid probate and secure assets for the survivor's use. ADVICE FOR MARRIED COUPLESBoth spouses should understand the family finances to avoid leaving the surviving spouse in the dark in the event of the other's death.Each spouse should have a credit card in their own name to ensure access to credit after one spouse's death.Plan for the surviving spouse's income, considering potential lifestyle changes due to reduced income, and understand the implications for Social Security benefits upon a spouse's death. THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNICATIONOpen communication about financial matters with your spouse and, if appropriate, with your children or other family members is crucial to ensure everyone knows what to expect. SPIRITUAL PERSPECTIVEYou and I can’t know when the Lord will call us home, but we do know where home is. Philippians 3:20 reminds us that “our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” Our job is to be ready. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm 76, on Supplemental Security Income, and interested in finding affordable life insurance options to cover funeral expenses and potentially support my daughter.I've been managing our family budget with spreadsheets since the 1980s, but I'm concerned my wife won't be able to manage it if I pass away. Can you recommend a simpler system?I have three retirement accounts totaling $100,000 and am considering rolling them into a Roth IRA for better investment options, despite potential tax implications.My tax preparer is requesting a photocopy of my Social Security card. Is it safe to provide it to him?After hearing advice on your show, I took responsibility for a debt I owed, despite being advised I could walk away due to its impact on my public aid. I want to share how your guidance inspired me to fulfill my obligations. RESOURCES MENTIONED:NerdWallet:NerdWalletUS News and World Report: Best Burial Insurance of 2024FaithFi appSound Mind Investing or FaithFi.com for articles on Roth vs. traditional IRA. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO LIVE A CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE WITH REGARDS TO MONEY?Living a Christian lifestyle with money involves having the right attitude towards it, regardless of the amount one possesses. This perspective transcends the amount of wealth and focuses on the heart and obedience to God's principles on financial management.It's about the attitude and obedience rather than the amount of wealth.Lifestyle controversies often stem from misunderstandings of biblical teachings on wealth.True obedience involves aligning one's financial decisions and lifestyle with biblical convictions. HOW CAN WE INTERPRET THE BIBLICAL RANGE OF WEALTH AND POVERTY?The Bible presents a wide spectrum of financial statuses among believers, from extreme wealth to significant poverty. Key lessons from these narratives emphasize the believers' heart posture and faithfulness in stewardship, rather than the material wealth itself.Scripture showcases both wealthy individuals and those living in poverty, focusing on their faithfulness and heart posture towards God.The widow's mite is highlighted not for her poverty but for her willingness to give all she had, demonstrating an attitude of complete trust and surrender to God.Wealth or poverty is not inherently righteous or sinful; the focus is on one's attitude and actions with what they are given. IS THE PROSPERITY GOSPEL A BIBLICAL MODEL FOR A CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE?The prosperity gospel, which often misinterprets scripture to equate faithfulness with material wealth, is not supported by biblical teachings. The true biblical model emphasizes forgiveness, contentment, and stewardship over material gain.The prosperity gospel misuses scriptures, such as Luke 6:38, which in context, speaks about forgiveness rather than financial blessings.True biblical prosperity is found in spiritual richness and obedience to God's commands, including living a life marked by forgiveness and generosity. WHAT SCRIPTURES OFFER GUIDANCE ON THE APPROPRIATE FINANCIAL LIFESTYLE FOR BELIEVERS?First and Second Timothy provide clear guidance on a Christian's approach to finances, emphasizing the importance of provision for one's family, enjoyment of God's blessings with a giving heart, and contentment regardless of one's financial state.Believers are called to provide for their families, enjoy God's blessings, and live in contentment.Paul's teachings in Philippians show that contentment in Christ transcends financial status, focusing on trust and strength found in God rather than material wealth.A Christian's financial lifestyle is marked by obedience, stewardship, and a heart aligned with God's purposes, rather than the pursuit of wealth for its own sake. WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A CHRISTIAN FINANCIAL LIFESTYLE?A Christian financial lifestyle is characterized by provision for one's family, enjoyment of God's gifts within the context of giving, and contentment with what one has, as instructed in First and Second Timothy and Hebrews.Provision, enjoyment, and contentment are key elements of a Christian financial lifestyle.These principles guide believers to focus on what truly matters: faithfulness in stewardship, generosity, and a heart content with God's provision.The biblical model does not prescribe a specific spending or saving percentage but encourages a prayerful and obedient approach to financial management, seeking God's wisdom and guidance in all things. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I discovered an unknown American Express account on my credit report from 2017 that I did not open. What steps should I take to address this issue?I'm nearing retirement and currently contribute 5% to my 401k. Should I increase my contribution to 25-30% to maximize it before I retire?I recently inherited a non-qualified annuity and was given only two options for distribution. Is it possible to leave the annuity in for the life term, and how can I find out more about this?My father gave us a timeshare many years ago, which we no longer want. After failing to exit the timeshare through paid services, we were advised legally to just stop paying the maintenance fee. Is there another solution? RESOURCES MENTIONED:FTC article: What To Know About Credit Freezes and Fraud AlertsRemember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt Syverson is a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Kingdom Advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. He’s also a specialist in helping families understand and set up ABLE accounts. WHAT ARE ABLE ACCOUNTS AND HOW DO THEY COMPARE TO 529 EDUCATION SAVINGS ACCOUNTS?ABLE accounts, akin to 529 education savings accounts in terms of contributions and tax treatments, are designed to assist individuals with disabilities by allowing for the accumulation of resources without affecting their eligibility for government assistance.ABLE accounts, initially referred to as 529A plans, are intended for individuals with disabilities, allowing them to save beyond the typical asset limits set by government assistance programs.These accounts enable the saving of funds for a broad range of needs beyond just educational expenses, providing a more flexible financial support system for people with disabilities. WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR AN ABLE ACCOUNT, AND WHAT ARE THE CONTRIBUTION LIMITS?ABLE accounts are specifically for individuals receiving or eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) due to a disability onset before age 26, with annual contribution limits matching the federal gift tax exclusion amount.Eligibility for ABLE accounts extends to individuals with significant disabilities with an onset before age 26, who are recipients of or qualify for SSI, allowing for a greater financial cushion without risking their SSI benefits.The annual contribution limit to an ABLE account is set at $18,000, aligning with the annual gift tax exclusion, enabling families and the individual to contribute without tax penalties and without affecting the individual’s SSI asset limits. HOW DO ABLE ACCOUNTS AFFECT SSI BENEFITS, AND WHAT ARE QUALIFIED DISABILITY EXPENSES?ABLE accounts do not count towards the SSI $2,000 asset limit, and funds can be used for a wide array of disability-related expenses without impacting SSI benefits, offering significant flexibility and financial relief.Contributions to ABLE accounts and the savings therein do not affect an individual’s eligibility for SSI as long as the account balance stays below $100,000, thus providing a secure means to save and support disability-related needs without jeopardizing SSI benefits.Qualified disability expenses are broadly defined, covering any costs related to living with a disability, including but not limited to housing, education, healthcare, and personal support services, thereby offering a versatile tool for financial planning and care. HOW ARE ABLE ACCOUNTS MANAGED AND WHAT ARE THE INVESTMENT OPTIONS?ABLE accounts are state-sponsored, similar to 529 plans, with investment options ranging from aggressive to conservative portfolios, as well as offering FDIC-insured options with debit card access for day-to-day expenses.Each state sponsors its own ABLE program, with only a few exceptions; individuals can choose to open an account in any participating state, often guided by the specific features and benefits offered by each state’s plan.Investment options within ABLE accounts vary, allowing for tailored investment strategies according to the beneficiary’s needs and risk tolerance, including the possibility of a portion being allocated to a checking-like account with FDIC insurance for immediate needs.ABLE National Resource Center:able nrc.org ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I have a 401k from a previous employer and a portable pension; I'm wondering if I can roll these over into an existing IRA Roth, or if I need to consolidate them into a new IRA.My daughter is looking to buy a house or land and pay cash, but someone suggested delayed financing to get her cash back and then get a mortgage; I'm trying to understand what that is.We have a family business and are currently with a credit card processing company that does not share our Christian values. We are looking for recommendations on credit card processing companies that might be more aligned with our values. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Inspire InsightChristian Community Credit Union Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

1 Corinthians 10:31: “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Chad Horning is the president of Praxis Mutual Funds, an underwriter of this program and one of the oldest faith-based mutual funds in the country. WHAT DOES "FAITH BASED INVESTING" MEAN TO PRAXIS?At Praxis, Faith Based Investing is all about letting your faith guide your investment decisions. It's not just about smart money moves; it's about aligning those moves with your Christian principles. This approach is key for those looking to ensure their investments reflect their values.The idea here is to let your faith lead the way in how you invest.Praxis champions the integration of faith and finances, aiming for your investments to mirror your values.Essentially, the goal is to align your investments with your Christian values seamlessly. HOW HAS FAITH BASED INVESTING EVOLVED OVER 30 YEARS?Initially, it focused on avoiding investments in industries that conflicted with Christian ethics. Now, it's grown to include proactive impact through investments, like engaging in shareholder advocacy and investing in community projects. This evolution marks a shift from merely avoiding harm to actively doing good.It started with steering clear of certain sectors.Today, it’s about positive actions, making a real impact through where you invest.Activities like international microfinance and expanding affordable housing exemplify this proactive stance. WHAT'S THIS "DISTANCE FROM THE ACTUAL BUSINESS" CONCEPT?This refers to the modern form of investing through stocks and mutual funds, where direct involvement in business operations isn't the norm. Despite this, the foundational Christian command to love one's neighbor as oneself still applies, guiding investors to choose businesses that uphold these values, even from afar.Modern investing often means less direct involvement with businesses.The principle of loving your neighbor still informs investment choices.This wisdom encourages investment in businesses that respect and uphold neighborly love. HOW HAVE FAITH BASED INVESTORS PERFORMED OVER THE YEARS?You might wonder if prioritizing values over returns means sacrificing financial performance. Fortunately, the landscape has evolved significantly, offering a broad spectrum of faith-oriented investment options that don't compromise on returns. This growth means investors can remain true to their values without sacrificing financial success.Prioritizing values doesn't mean sacrificing returns.The variety of faith-oriented investment options has expanded significantly.It’s entirely possible to support your family’s financial goals while making a positive impact. WHAT'S ON THE HORIZON FOR FAITH BASED INVESTORS?Looking forward, the industry is set to continue its evolution, offering an even wider range of products that cater to diverse Christian values and expressions. This expansion means investors can expect more opportunities to invest in ways that truly reflect their faith, from supporting ethical businesses to focusing on social justice.Expect more diverse faith-based investment products in the future.A convergence of interests between faith-based and traditional investors is likely, focusing on ethical business practices.The future promises a broad spectrum of options catering to various expressions of Christian faith. ANY WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THOSE CONSIDERING FAITH BASED INVESTING?Faith Based Investing is a viable and impactful approach that you can adopt. When meeting with your financial advisor, consider discussing how to integrate your faith with your investment portfolio. The increasing number of advisors familiar with this approach is a positive trend, offering more support for those looking to invest according to their values.Faith Based Investing is not only possible but impactful.Discuss integrating faith into your investment strategy with your financial advisor.The growing familiarity of advisors with Faith Based Investing means more support for aligning your investments with your values. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm retiring soon and noticed my Social Security projection doesn't include earnings for 2023; will filing for Social Security before filing my 2023 taxes affect my monthly check amount?After inheriting some money, I'm looking for advice on how to invest it or put it in a safe spot to help it grow, considering we're already doing well with our current finances and have an emergency fund. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with

FINDING PEACE IN UNCERTAIN TIMESNavigating Financial Uncertainty: In today's world, uncertainty abounds, especially in financial matters like home-buying, career changes, and retirement. This uncertainty often leads to worry and sleepless nights.Guidance from Scripture: Drawing from Psalm 119:105, we find reassurance that God's Word illuminates our path, preventing us from stumbling in the darkness of uncertainty.Casting Anxiety on God: First Peter 5:6-7 reminds us that God cares for us deeply, encouraging us to cast all our anxieties on Him through humble submission. FOUR STEPS TO CONQUERING ANXIETYStep One: Rejoice in the Lord: Philippians 4:4 instructs us to rejoice always, recognizing that everything God allows into our lives is ultimately for our benefit.Step Two: Prayer and Thanksgiving: Philippians 4:6 urges us to present our worries to God in prayer, with thanksgiving, trusting in His provision and care.Step Three: Think Truth: Philippians 4:8 advises us to focus our minds on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy, finding solace in the truth of God's Word.Step Four: Do What's Right: Philippians 4:9 encourages us to follow the example of Christ in our actions, trusting that obedience to God's commands brings peace. FAITHFULNESS AMIDST CHALLENGESVictory in Christ's Resurrection: 1 Corinthians 15 reminds us of the victory we have through Christ's resurrection, urging us to stand firm and remain steadfast in our commitment to godly principles.Assurance of God's Provision: Romans 8:28 and Philippians 4:19 reassure us that God works all things for our good and will meet all our needs according to His riches in Christ Jesus.Purpose in Faithfulness: Our faithfulness in following godly financial values serves as a witness for Jesus, an investment in God's kingdom, and a means of drawing closer to the Lord. FINAL ENCOURAGEMENTDespite challenges, remaining faithful to godly financial principles brings peace on earth and treasures in heaven, fulfilling God's purposes for our lives. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ALSO ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:Can National Debt Relief justify its fees considering the caller's situation?How should Conrad begin retirement planning, especially with access to a 401(k) plan?What steps are needed to transfer ownership of a home and continue mortgage payments after a parent's passing?Are gold coins a wise investment, given the risks and benefits? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Christian Credit CounselorsWise Women Managing Money Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matthew 25:23, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.”HONORING GOD THROUGH FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIPInspiring Words: We all aspire to hear the commendation found in Matthew 25:23 and to be found faithful as stewards in all aspects of life, including finances.Biblical Foundation: Our financial decisions are rooted in Scripture, with Deuteronomy 8:1 reminding us that all wealth comes from God, and Psalm 50:10-11 affirming His ownership over everything, including us.Glorifying God: The Bible teaches us to honor God in all that we do, including our financial choices. Revelation 4:11, 1 Corinthians 10:31, and Colossians 3:17 urge us to glorify God in every aspect of life, including our finances. FAITH-BASED APPROACH TO FINANCEAligning Values: We are encouraged to make financial decisions that align with our Christian values, including supporting companies with godly practices and investing in opportunities that honor God's principles.Faith-Based Institutions: In the world of finance, there are institutions that prioritize faith-based principles. Christian Community Credit Union is one such example, offering banking solutions that align with our beliefs.Survey Insights: Recent surveys have shown a strong desire among Christians for banking practices that reflect their values, with many considering switching to faith-based institutions like Christian Community Credit Union. CALL TO ACTION AND ASSURANCETaking Action: As faithful stewards, we are prompted to consider our financial decisions carefully and explore options that honor God. Joining a faith-based institution like Christian Community Credit Union can be a practical step in this direction.Security and Peace of Mind: Accounts with Christian Community Credit Union are insured up to $250,000 by ASI, providing not only alignment with Christian values but also peace of mind regarding the safety of our finances. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ALSO ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:Considering cashing out an annuity to supplement Social Security income; advisor suggests another annuity with guaranteed 6% interest. Is this a good plan?Inheriting property, considering adding son to deed to avoid probate; host advises against, suggests Ladybird deed for tax benefits.Inherited $72,000; seeking advice on allocation for paying off mortgage, car replacement, and daughter's college expenses.Jointly owned timeshare; sister wants to buy caller's half. Caller seeks advice on potential tax implications. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Find a Certified Kingdom AdvisorChristian Credit Counselors Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

BOOMER INFLUENCE ON HOUSING MARKET:The current landscape of the housing market is significantly influenced by baby boomers, particularly in terms of home ownership patterns and inventory distribution.A substantial portion of large homes, defined as those with three bedrooms or more, is owned by baby boomers, who are aged between 58 to 76 years old.In contrast, younger generations, including millennials (ages 26 to 41) and Gen Zers (ages 19 to 25), possess a smaller share of large homes, leading to a disparity in housing options.Boomers' ownership status, with many owning homes outright and having little financial incentive to sell, contributes to the limited availability of homes for sale, particularly larger ones suitable for growing families.The disparity in housing ownership between generations underscores the challenges faced by younger individuals and families in accessing affordable and adequately sized housing. FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO HOUSING CHALLENGES:Various factors exacerbate the housing challenges experienced by younger generations, including supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a decrease in new construction and available inventory.Additionally, rising building costs and inflationary pressures have contributed to higher home values, making homeownership less attainable for first-time buyers, especially those without existing equity in their homes.Record-low mortgage rates in recent years have further intensified demand for homes, driving up prices and creating a competitive market environment for prospective buyers.Despite projections for improvements in the housing market in 2024, with expectations of increased inventory and potentially lower mortgage rates, significant disparities persist between the housing opportunities available to different generations. STRATEGIES FOR PROSPECTIVE HOMEBUYERS:Prospective homebuyers can take proactive steps to prepare for homeownership amid challenging market conditions, including prioritizing debt reduction to improve debt-to-income ratios and credit scores.Saving for a substantial down payment, ideally 20% of the home's purchase price, can help avoid additional costs associated with private mortgage insurance (PMI) and lower monthly mortgage payments.Monitoring credit reports for errors and disputing inaccuracies can contribute to improving credit scores, enhancing eligibility for favorable mortgage rates and terms.When ready to purchase a home, prospective buyers are advised to obtain pre-approval for a mortgage and shop around for the best rates and terms, potentially saving significant sums over the life of the loan. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:Should I repair my 13-year-old car's AC for $1,700-$1,900, or should I invest in a newer car, considering my vehicle's worth and potential lifespan?Do my children inherit money tax-free from my Roth IRA upon my passing?Should I roll over my maturing CD to a new institution offering a slightly higher interest rate, or stick with my credit union for convenience?How can I choose a high-yield savings account? Is it safe to trust banks with higher rates than Capital One? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Bankrate.comNerdWallet Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WHAT DOES HEART FOR LEBANON AIM TO ACHIEVE, AND HOW HAS THE RECENT FIGHTING AFFECTED THEIR MISSION?Heart for Lebanon creates faith-defining environments for under-resourced families in Lebanon to encounter God and grow spiritually. Recent fighting has expanded the ministry's outreach, particularly aiding families fleeing from conflict zones near the border.Heart for Lebanon aims to provide basic necessities and spiritual guidance to families in Lebanon.Recent fighting has increased the demand for their services, with many families seeking refuge and assistance.WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MAJOR CRISIS SITUATIONS IN LEBANON, AND HOW DOES THIS CREATE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR MINISTRY?Lebanon faces numerous crises, including the aftermath of the port explosion, high inflation, and political instability. 87% of the population lives at or below the poverty line, and 38% have never heard the gospel, presenting a significant opportunity for ministry.Lebanon's crises include the port explosion, economic instability, and political turmoil.These challenges provide an opening for ministry to address both physical and spiritual needs in the country. WHAT COMPELLING OPPORTUNITIES FOR MINISTRY EXIST IN LEBANON, AND WHAT IS THE THIRST FOR THE GOSPEL LIKE?Families in Lebanon, like Martha's, come seeking basic necessities and a longing for peace amidst conflict. With radical groups filling gaps in aid, Heart for Lebanon sees this as a critical moment to provide essential support and share the hope of the gospel.Families in Lebanon are desperate for basic necessities and yearn for peace amid ongoing conflict.Heart for Lebanon sees an opportunity to provide practical aid and share the gospel amidst challenging circumstances. HOW CAN LISTENERS RESPOND TO SUPPORT THE MINISTRY IN LEBANON?Listeners can support Heart for Lebanon's vital work by visiting faithfi.com/lebanon to learn more and contribute to this Kingdom-focused effort. Each donation helps provide practical aid and spiritual guidance to families in Lebanon facing unimaginable challenges. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ALSO ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:Recently divorced and seeking estate planning advice, especially considering the impact on her will and guardianship for her adult child.Considering splitting contributions between a 403(b) and an IRA, seeking guidance on the allocation considering her age and financial situation.Prefers traditional banks over online banks for CDs due to a dislike of online transactions, seeking advice on whether the higher rates of online banks outweigh this preference. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Find a Certified Kingdom AdvisorBankrate.com Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brandon Pizzurro is President and Chief Investment Officer of GuideStone Capital Management, an underwriter of this program. WHAT DOES SEEING THE WORLD TRANSFORMED THROUGH CHRISTIAN INVESTING MEAN?Seeing the world transformed through Christian investing means stewarding investment resources with intentionality and a faith-driven mindset. Christians approach investing to reflect God's Kingdom, impacting areas like sanctity of life, human dignity, and stewardship of creation.It means stewarding investment resources with intentionality and faith-driven mindset.Christians approach investing to reflect God's Kingdom, impacting areas like sanctity of life, human dignity, and stewardship of creation. HOW CAN INVESTING BRING ABOUT CHANGE?Investing can bring about change by allowing Christians to support organizations and companies aligned with their values. Guidestone emphasizes three key areas: sanctity of life, spreading the gospel, and stewardship of God's creation.Impact investing allows Christians to support organizations and companies aligned with their values.Guidestone emphasizes three key areas: sanctity of life, spreading the gospel, and stewardship of God's creation. HOW DOES GUIDESTONE GIVE BACK THROUGH ITS IMPACT INVESTMENTS?Guidestone donates 20% of revenue from impact funds to Kingdom causes, supporting organizations like the Psalm 139 project and Minno. These donations enable impactful initiatives like providing ultrasound equipment for pregnancy centers and offering gospel-centered content for kids.Guidestone donates 20% of revenue from impact funds to Kingdom causes, supporting organizations like the Psalm 139 project and Minno.Donations enable impactful initiatives like providing ultrasound equipment for pregnancy centers and offering gospel-centered content for kids. WHAT OTHER WAYS DOES GUIDESTONE TRANSFORM THE WORLD THROUGH ITS FUNDS?Guidestone engages in corporate activism and uses proxy voting power to influence companies to align with Christian values. By offering faith-based investments and impact opportunities, Guidestone helps believers align their finances with their values.Guidestone engages in corporate activism and uses proxy voting power to influence companies to align with Christian values.By offering faith-based investments and impact opportunities, Guidestone helps believers align their finances with their values. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR BELIEVERS TO BE INTENTIONAL ABOUT HOW THEY INVEST?It is important for believers to be intentional about how they invest to align their finances with their values. Guidestone supports believers on this journey by offering faith-based investments and impact opportunities.Intentionality is key for Christians to align their finances with their values.Guidestone supports believers on this journey by offering faith-based investments and impact opportunities. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ALSO ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:How can I verify whether a financial advisor corporation is legit? Can you recommend any websites to check?Should I pay cash for a new car or finance it, considering it would be 15-20% of my liquid net wealth?Can you suggest resources for teaching high school students about money and finance?I owe the IRS $12,000. Should I pay them in cash or consider an offer in compromise?How can families afford the increasing cost of private Christian education? Is it wise to redirect giving from the church to tuition? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Investor.gov and FINRA's BrokerCheck for verifying financial advisors.Your Money Counts by Howard Dayton for teaching financial basics from a biblical worldview.IRS Offer in Compromise Pre-Qualifier tool for exploring tax payment options. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL: UNDERSTANDING STEWARDSHIP AND PRIDEIn Luke 12:16-18, Jesus tells a parable of a rich man who credits himself for his wealth, planning to build larger barns for his abundant crops, highlighting his self-reliance and pride. BIBLICAL WARNINGS AGAINST PRIDE:1 Corinthians 4:7 questions what we have that we did not receive from God, critiquing the notion of boasting about personal achievements.1 Timothy 6:7-8 emphasizes contentment with what we have, reminding us that we brought nothing into the world and can take nothing out.2 Corinthians 10:17-18 instructs us to boast in the Lord, not in ourselves, for true approval comes from God. THE MISTAKE OF THE RICH MAN:Luke 12:19 illustrates the rich man's plan to enjoy his wealth alone, which God rebukes by calling him a fool for not being rich toward God, highlighting the folly of finding security in possessions.Ecclesiastes 5:10-12 reflects on the vanity of loving money, as it cannot fulfill one's desire for true abundance. REFLECTIONS ON FINANCIAL ANXIETY AND ENVY:Jesus' parable serves as a caution against pride and greed, urging us to recognize God as the source of all blessings and to use our resources to serve Him and others.C.S. Lewis describes pride as "spiritual cancer," emphasizing that pride prevents us from knowing God, as it involves looking down on others and things, missing what is above. CONCLUSION:The parable of the rich fool teaches us to be rich toward God, using our blessings to glorify Him and serve others, rather than accumulating wealth for self-satisfaction. Recognizing Jesus as the source of true life and abundance helps us avoid the spiritual pitfalls of pride and self-sufficiency.As we quoted earlier, C.S. Lewis called pride “spiritual cancer”. He goes on to say: “As long as you are proud you cannot know God. A proud man is always looking down on things and people: and, of course, as long as you are looking down, you cannot see something that is above you.”Today's topic was drawn from our new study guide entitledRich Toward God. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm in my 60s and financially set but curious about Roth IRAs for my daughter, who's earning around $150k-$160k. Should she open a Roth IRA despite nearing the income limit, and how do we navigate financial planning costs?I've been divorced for 10 years, and despite filing a quitclaim deed, I'm still on the mortgage. How can I remove my name from the mortgage when my ex-husband cannot refinance?I'm contemplating the best investment for securing $90,000. Is buying property a good option, or are there better investments?Concerning Matthew 25:16 and the parable of the talents, specifically the trading aspect, how did they make money in a way that was acceptable to God?I've accumulated about $75,000 in debt due to a timeshare mistake and took out a home equity loan with a high interest rate that's barely covering the principal. Should I refinance my mortgage or take another approach? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Find a Certified Kingdom AdvisorEveryday Steward (a division of Ron Blue Trust for financial planning): Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dale Vermillion is the author of Navigating The Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CURRENT TREND IN MORTGAGE RATES?Mortgage rates are stabilizing, currently fluctuating around 6.25% to 6.5%, expected to gradually decrease over the coming months.Rates have become more stable recently, bouncing around a consistent range.Predictions indicate a potential drop below 6% by the end of the year.Stability and future trends are largely influenced by inflation and bond market conditions. WHAT IMPACT MIGHT THE FED'S EXPECTED INTEREST RATE CUTS HAVE ON MORTGAGE RATES?Though Federal rate cuts don't directly correlate with mortgage rates, significant cuts are expected to improve mortgage rates.The Federal rate and mortgage rates often move independently, but significant Federal cuts could lead to lower mortgage rates.Analysts expect mortgage rates to fall under 6% by year's end.Inflation reduction and bond market improvements are key to driving mortgage rate reductions. WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS FOR HOME VALUES IN THE COMING MONTHS?Home values are expected to increase by about 3.2% this year, slower than last year's 7.1% increase, due to adjustments for affordability.Growth in home values is slowing but still expected to rise.Listing price adjustments for affordability are influencing the slower growth rate.Despite the slowdown, the market remains favorable for buying. HOW IS THE INVENTORY OF HOMES CHANGING?Inventory levels are improving, with expectations for a significant increase in available homes by year-end, aided by new construction.Inventory has significantly increased from last year and is expected to continue rising.New construction is contributing to the improvement in inventory levels.Anticipated inventory increase to over 800,000 units by year-end will create more buying opportunities. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE CONSIDERING BUYING A HOME SOON?Prospective buyers financially ready to purchase should proceed now rather than waiting for further rate reductions to avoid future market competitiveness.Financial readiness and affordability should be the main considerations for buying now.Waiting may lead to increased competition and potentially higher prices as rates decrease.The current market presents an opportune time for prepared buyers. IS RENTING A BETTER VALUE THAN BUYING RIGHT NOW?Despite current high home values and mortgage rates, buying a home remains a better long-term financial decision than renting due to appreciation, tax benefits, and wealth accumulation.Rents are increasing faster than incomes, offering less stability and no appreciation compared to homeownership.Homeownership provides significant tax benefits and potential for appreciation.The financial advantages and wealth accumulation of owning outweigh the costs compared to renting. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:After my divorce, I realized filing a quitclaim deed doesn't remove my obligation from the mortgage. Is there any way to get my name off the mortgage if my ex can't refinance?My wife believes tithes should only go to our home church, but I think giving to ministries where we see need should also count. What's your perspective?My wife and I have $90,000 saved and are unsure how to invest it wisely. What would be the best and most secure investment for us, considering the current market challenges?Since Social Security benefits are essentially a return of money we've already paid into the system, should we tithe on the entire Social Security check or only on the "increase"? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chad Clark is Executive Director here at FaithFi. WHAT ARE THE DANGERS OF HAVING A BUDGET?A budget, while essential for managing finances, comes with potential dangers such as idolizing money, succumbing to pride, and relying more on the budget than on God.Idolizing money can occur when constant monitoring of finances leads to an excessive focus on money instead of God.Pride can emerge from achieving financial goals, leading to self-boasting rather than recognizing God's provision.Relying too heavily on a budget may restrict following God's promptings that go beyond our financial plans. HOW CAN WE AVOID THESE DANGERS WHILE USING A BUDGET?To safely use a budget without falling into these traps, it is important to renew our minds with God's Word, give thanks to Him for His provisions, and prioritize obedience to God over strict adherence to the budget.Regularly immersing oneself in scripture helps combat the idolization of money by reminding us that God is our ultimate treasure.Acknowledging God as the source of all wealth and success fosters humility and guards against pride.Being flexible with our budget allows us to respond to God's leading, even when it doesn't align with our financial plans, ensuring our trust remains in Him rather than our financial strategies. WHAT IS THE FAITHFI APP AND HOW DOES IT SUPPORT GODLY STEWARDSHIP?The FaithFi app is designed to assist users in managing their finances in a way that honors God, incorporating budgeting tools along with spiritual resources to encourage stewardship that aligns with biblical principles.The app aims to help users steward God's resources effectively while being mindful of the spiritual dangers associated with financial management.By integrating budgeting with spiritual guidance, the FaithFi app encourages users to view money as a tool for God's kingdom, not an end in itself.The FaithFi app supports users in their stewardship journey, helping them to balance financial responsibility with spiritual obedience. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I have enough to hire a financial advisor who uses Charles Schwab. Can I have a faith-based type of investing to avoid supporting companies against my values?I'm paying around $1,300 monthly for a car that's not affordable anymore due to high insurance from accidents. What's the best option for handling this financially overwhelming situation?As a recent homebuyer with a 30-year mortgage at 5.625% and about $140,000 owed, how should I consider refinancing, and what factors should influence my decision?My 17-year-old son is making about $30,000 a year from his first job and wants to know how to invest his money wisely without any current bills to pay. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Schwab Intelligent PortfoliosFidelityHoward Dayton's book Your Money CountsBankrate.com for finding high yield savings accounts for an emergency fund. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt Bell is the managing editor at Sound Mind Investing and the author of several books on personal finance, including Money & Marriage: A Complete Guide for Engaged and Newly Married Couples. HOW DO INDIVIDUAL TEMPERAMENTS AFFECT MARRIED COUPLES' FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT?Understanding each other's temperament helps couples manage money together effectively since temperament influences how individuals naturally react to financial situations, bringing inherent strengths and weaknesses to money management.Temperament shapes our financial behaviors and preferences, influenced by upbringing and personal experiences.Knowing and respecting each other's temperament can lead to better teamwork in financial decisions.It's crucial to recognize that while temperaments have their financial strengths, they also come with challenges that can be managed through awareness and cooperation. WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MEN AND WOMEN IN FINANCIAL PERSPECTIVES AND BEHAVIORS? Research shows men and women often have different financial priorities, emotions related to money, interests in financial topics, negotiation tendencies, and risk levels in investing, which can lead to conflict in marriages.Men and women have distinct spending priorities, with men favoring electronics and women preferring travel.Men associate money with confidence, while women tend to associate it with anxiety and confusion.Differences extend to financial interests and behaviors, such as investing versus saving strategies and openness to negotiating salaries. DO FINANCIAL OPPOSITES ATTRACT IN MARRIAGES ACCORDING TO RESEARCH?Research indicates that individuals often choose mates with opposite financial habits, such as spendthrifts marrying tightwads, which can lead to conflict but also complements each partner's financial behavior. Initial attraction may lead to choosing partners with differing financial habits, despite logical preferences for similarity.This attraction of opposites in financial habits necessitates understanding and cooperation to manage the inherent conflicts. HOW CAN COUPLES RECONCILE DIFFERENCES IN FINANCIAL TEMPERAMENTS AND HABITS?Understanding and accepting each other's financial temperament is key, with communication playing a crucial role in reconciling differences and managing finances as a team.Discovering and appreciating each other's financial temperament fosters empathy, reduces frustration, and enhances teamwork.Recognizing the strengths and weaknesses associated with each temperament allows couples to assign financial roles and responsibilities that play to each partner's strengths.Continuous learning and adaptation to each other's temperaments can lead to more effective and harmonious financial management. HOW DOES IDENTIFYING AND WORKING WITH EACH OTHER'S TEMPERAMENTS IMPROVE FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT IN MARRIAGE?Identifying and understanding each other's temperaments can greatly improve how couples manage their finances by maximizing strengths and minimizing weaknesses inherent to each temperament. This process encourages empathy and understanding, reducing blame and frustration over financial differences.By leveraging each other's natural tendencies, couples can create a more balanced and effective approach to financial planning and decision-making.Continuous exploration and appreciation of each other's temperament foster a collaborative environment for managing finances as a cohesive unit. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm retired and haven't made withdrawals from my 457 plan but am concerned about digital currency replacing the dollar. How can I protect my money?I want to save for a car for my grandson who will be driving in three years. Should I put the funds in a CD or a U.S. I Bond?My mother moved in with me, and we put my name on her accounts. As her primary caregiver, she intends for me to inherit her savings. Do we need to take any legal steps to ensure this? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Bankrate.com for finding the best CD rates Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

FINANCIAL ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENTUNDERSTANDING THE HEART'S ROLE IN FINANCIAL ATTITUDES:Financial attitudes reflect one's spiritual health, as wrong attitudes towards money and possessions stem from the heart, mirroring a broader spiritual condition.Jesus identified the root of evil thoughts, including greed and envy, as originating from the heart (Mark 7:21-23), highlighting the spiritual battle within. THE BATTLE AGAINST SINThe struggle with sinful attitudes like envy, pride, and greed is common, even among devout believers like the Apostle Paul, who shared his own struggles in Romans 7:21-24.Overcoming these attitudes requires divine intervention, as Paul acknowledges deliverance through Jesus Christ. CULTIVATING RIGHT ATTITUDES TOWARDS MONEYRight financial attitudes include serving Christ, stewardship, gratitude, and seeking wisdom, reflecting virtues like love, generosity, humility, and kindness.Larry Burkett emphasized that spiritual values should be mirrored in one's finances, honoring God and leading to a more fulfilling financial life. THE PROMISE OF GODLY LIVINGRighteous living, characterized by trust in God rather than material wealth, promises peace and the opportunity to serve Jesus, despite not guaranteeing material prosperity.Scriptures such as John 10:9, Psalm 37, and Romans 8:10 highlight the blessings of living with godly attitudes, including salvation, peace, and hope. CALL TO ACTIONThe monologue concludes with a call for listeners to examine their financial attitudes, emphasizing that the significance lies not in the amount of money one has but in the attitude towards money and possessions.It warns against attitudes of pride, selfishness, greed, envy, and dishonesty, encouraging listeners to pursue a relationship with Christ for a life marked by peace and hope. SCRIPTURES MENTIONEDMark 7:21-23: Illustrates the origin of evil thoughts and attitudes from the heart.Romans 7:21-24: Paul discusses the internal battle against sin and the law within himself.John 10:9: Jesus promises salvation and abundant life to those who enter through Him.Psalm 37: Encourages trust in the Lord for a hopeful future and inheritance.Romans 8:10: Highlights the life and peace given through the Spirit because of righteousness. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:As my husband and I approach retirement and streamline our finances, what is the best way to maintain my own credit score, considering we're reducing our credit cards and I'm not the main breadwinner?My husband's FICO score on our Citibank Costco card suddenly dropped to 598 according to the card's report, but Equifax and Experian show no changes and maintain his score is over 800. How do we resolve this discrepancy?We've sold our home and will soon receive $450,000 in proceeds. As we're in our late 50s with no children at home and uncertain about buying a new house, what should we do with the money in the meantime?If I have my credit accounts frozen to protect against fraud, is it still beneficial to use a service like LifeLock, or is it unnecessary?I've seen ads for home title theft protection services. Considering my accounts are frozen, is investing in title insurance or similar protections worth it? RESOURCES MENTIONED:AnnualCreditReport.comBankrate.com Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

THE DECLINING MARRIAGE RATE AND ITS FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:Studies consistently show that married people fare better financially than single people. Significantly better. But the marriage rate in America continues to fall. The percentage of adults living with a spouse dropped from 52% to 50% over the last decade, continuing a trend that started when 67% of adults were married in 1960.This trend affects millennials significantly, with only 44% choosing to marry, potentially missing out on the financial benefits associated with marital status. THE FINANCIAL ADVANTAGE OF MARRIED COUPLES:Married couples generally have a higher median net worth at all age levels compared to unmarried individuals, with married households having a net worth up to 9 times greater than unmarried female householders and 3 times more than unmarried male householders.While there are exceptions and marriage is not universally advantageous, on average, married couples fare better financially. THE SINGLE PARENT CHALLENGE:Single parents, especially single mothers, face significant financial strains, with 40% of single mother families living below the poverty line compared to only 10% of married couples.The rise in births outside of marriage from 7% in 1965 to around 40% today has contributed to financial challenges for single parents and societal implications. THE BENEFITS OF MARRIAGE FOR MEN AND WOMEN:Married men tend to work harder, earn more, and receive more promotions than their unmarried counterparts, while marriage provides financial stability for women, particularly those with children. KEY DECISIONS FOR FINANCIAL STABILITY:Rob outlines four key life decisions for financial stability: graduating from high school, securing employment, getting married, and, if having children, waiting until at least 21.Marriage, as ordained by God, is highlighted as a blessing with significant benefits beyond financial aspects. For a married couple, the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. By joining together,their strength is more than doubled. None of this should be surprising. Marriage was ordained by God to be a blessing to us. Ecclesiastes 4 teaches “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up.” ON TODAY'S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm considering whole life insurance and wonder if there's a place for it in my financial plan, given I've checked off other savings and estate planning boxes.As my husband becomes eligible for Social Security and I am not for another four years, we're trying to figure out if he should draw now and how spousal benefits work with Social Security.I'm retiring in four months, am debt-free except for monthly expenses, and need advice on how retirement income from Social Security and a state retirement plan will be taxed.We own a rental property that hasn't been profitable and with upcoming college expenses for our children, we're debating if selling the property now to cover costs is a wise financial move.With the housing market's uncertainties and a mortgage that could take up 45% of our income, I'm unsure if now is a good time to buy a house or if we should wait.Considering selling a rental property to pay for college expenses without incurring debt, wondering if this is the best use of the asset or if there are other factors we haven't considered. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Social Security Administration: ssa.govRemember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jerry Bowyer is our resident economist and frequent contributor here FaithFi. IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) A THREAT TO MANKIND, SIMILAR TO SCENARIOS IN SCIENCE FICTION?Humanity cannot surpass God's creation, and AI, being a product of human invention, cannot exceed the intelligence and capabilities God endowed in humans. AI is constrained by the boundaries of human creativity.AI cannot surpass human intelligence as this would imply humans have the capability to create something superior to God’s own creation, which is not possible given our finite nature.The portrayal of AI as a potential threat or a deity in itself, capable of surpassing human intelligence, erroneously attributes divine characteristics to AI.It's essential to recognize humanity's unique status as God's highest creation to maintain a balanced perspective on AI's potential and limitations, acknowledging that any creation by humans, including AI, remains subordinate to God's creation. WHAT ARE THE ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF AI, AND HOW SIGNIFICANT WILL ITS IMPACT BE?While AI promises considerable economic benefits, its potential has been somewhat overestimated. Its efficiency and the scope of its impact compared to human intelligence and creativity are yet to be fully realized.AI's processing power and efficiency are significantly less than the human brain, which exceeds the complexity of the global internet, highlighting the vast difference in capabilities.Economic predictions about AI adding trillions to the global economy might be overblown. Its development and practical application are likely to follow a more gradual path than the current hype suggests.AI can be a useful tool for initial tasks such as drafting documents or conducting preliminary research but requires human oversight for accuracy, underscoring the indispensable value of human creativity and judgment. WHERE DOES THE FUTURE OF JOBS STAND WITH THE RISE OF AI, AND WHICH SECTORS MIGHT BE MOST AFFECTED?The advancement of AI may pose challenges for certain job sectors, particularly those involving routine or non-creative tasks, but it also highlights the irreplaceable value of human creativity and adaptability.Jobs that demand high levels of creativity and innovative thinking are less susceptible to being replaced by AI, as AI's output in creative tasks tends to be mediocre at best.The labor market is expected to evolve, with AI-induced job displacements leading to new opportunities that better utilize human creativity and adaptability, reflecting the dynamic nature of technological advancement.Christians should actively participate in the development and application of AI, shaping its trajectory to ensure it serves humanity's best interests while aligning with biblical principles and values. CONCLUSION: A BIBLICAL VIEW ON AI AND TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTChristians should not fear AI but engage with it constructively, recognizing that while technology brings new challenges, it also provides opportunities to exercise dominion and creativity in alignment with God's design.Approaching the development of AI with biblical wisdom ensures that it serves to enhance, rather than replace, the unique qualities God has instilled in humanity, keeping technology as a tool under human stewardship.By participating in AI's development, Christians can steer its use towards beneficial and ethical applications, reflecting God's goodness and creativity, and ensuring technology remains a positive force in society.In the end, technology, including AI, is a tool that, when wielded with intention and guided by God's principles, can glorify God and benefit humanity, echoing our role as stewards of God's creation. You can find Jerry Bowyer’s insightful articles for WORLD News Group at WNG.org/opinions. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I just realized a store card I own was changed to a MasterCard without my knowledge, and I signed up for another card to get a discount without fully understanding. Will closing these accounts hurt my credit score?I've recently received an inheritance in the form of stock and am considering how to tithe from this. How do taxes play into tithing from an inherited stock? Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gary Chapman is the best-selling author of The Five Love Languages. HOW SHOULD THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES INFLUENCE GIFT-GIVING ON VALENTINE'S DAY?Understanding and applying the Five Love Languages to gift-giving, especially on Valentine's Day, can really enhance the impact of the gesture. If your spouse's primary love language is receiving gifts, then selecting a thoughtful gift becomes crucial.However, for those whose love language is not gifts, recognizing Valentine's Day and making an effort to express love is still important.Recognizing if gifts are your spouse's primary love language is key; if so, choose gifts with care and intention.Even if gifts don't rank highly for your spouse, don't overlook Valentine's Day—any act of love will be appreciated.Manage expectations and be understanding if your spouse doesn't respond as enthusiastically as hoped; their love language may differ from yours. IN YOUR EXPERIENCE AS A COUNSELOR, HOW OFTEN DOES MONEY CREATE CHALLENGES IN MARRIAGES?Money is frequently a source of conflict within marriages, with differences in financial priorities and management styles often leading to disagreements.Money disputes are common, stemming from differences in spending habits, financial planning, and priorities.A specific case highlighted a couple's disagreement over purchasing a home, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing relationships over material possessions.Reflecting on Jesus's teachings reminds us that life's true meaning is found in our relationship with God and with others, not in the accumulation of stuff. HOW CRUCIAL IS IT FOR COUPLES TO ALIGN ON FINANCIAL GOALS AND PRIORITIES?Agreeing on financial goals and priorities is essential for marital harmony. Discussing and aligning on financial matters, including attitudes towards spending, saving, and giving, before marriage can head off future conflicts. But if these discussions did not happen premaritally, finding common ground after tying the knot is critical.Understanding each other's background and approach to money helps in forming a united financial strategy.Conflicts over money are inevitable due to inherent differences; thus, effective communication and compromise are key.Establishing shared financial goals and priorities supports marital unity and facilitates collaborative problem-solving. HOW SHOULD COUPLES THINK ABOUT THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES IN LIGHT OF RECONCILING THEIR DIFFERENCES ABOUT MANAGING MONEY?Incorporating the understanding of each other's primary love language into daily interactions, including discussions about money, can create a positive environment that fosters understanding and cooperation. When both partners feel loved and valued in their preferred love language, they are more likely to approach financial disagreements with empathy and a willingness to find common ground. Regularly speaking your spouse's primary love language can significantly improve the emotional climate of the marriage.Feeling loved and appreciated makes it easier to navigate and resolve financial disagreements or any other conflicts.Effective communication, understanding, and expressing love through the appropriate love languages can lead to healthier money management discussions. WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU WANT TO LEAVE WITH COUPLES ON THIS VALENTINE'S DAY?Valentine's Day serves as a reminder to express love and appreciation to our partners. But it's important to continue these expressions of love beyond this single day. Understanding and speaking your spouse's primary love language regularly not only enriches your marriage but also ensures that both partners feel loved and valued consistently. Use Valentine's Day as an opportunity to express your love, but also commit to doing so throughout the year.Discovering and speaking your spouse's primary love language can transform your marriage, leading to a deeper, more fulfilling relationship.Acts of love, whether big or small, should be a constant in your relationship, with every day seen as an opportunity to demonstrate your love and commitment. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm considering a career change into financial counseling or advising and need advice on which path to pursue, especially without an interest in selling products but focusing on advising people on money management.I was recently forced into retirement and am trying to figure out how to manage my finances, specifically if there's a way to withdraw from my 401(k) to pay off car debt without it counting as income and affecting my state insurance benefits. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Kingdom AdvisorsCertified Christian Financial Counselor: Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith

LENDING MONEY TO CHILDREN FOR A HOUSE PURCHASE:Rob discusses the reasons parents might consider lending money to their children for a house purchase, such as reducing the interest the child must pay and helping if the child does not qualify for a mortgage due to debt-to-income ratio issues or insufficient credit history. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the implications of lending versus gifting money, the potential risks involved, and ensuring any loan is legally documented.Parents may lend to their children to save them from high interest rates or if they're unable to secure a loan due to financial reasons.Lending money can potentially harm the recipient by discouraging their efforts to earn money and achieve financial independence, and it can risk the lender's financial security and relationship with the child if the loan is not repaid.The Bible encourages providing for relatives, as seen in 1 Timothy 5:8, which states, "If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever," but this provision must be balanced with wisdom to ensure it does not encourage dependency.Gifting rather than lending may avoid relationship strain, but it comes with IRS implications if the gifted amount exceeds annual exclusions, impacting the lifetime gift tax exclusion.Private loans to children for home purchases won't help build their credit history, potentially affecting future borrowing capabilities, but can save significant amounts in mortgage interest.If parents decide to lend, the loan should be formalized with a legally binding contract detailing the loan's terms, ensuring compliance with IRS requirements and protecting both parties' interests. Rob underscores that while personal loans for home purchases can offer significant benefits, especially in saving on interest payments, they also carry risks that must be carefully weighed. Thorough preparation and legal documentation can help head off or mitigate potential issues. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:At 63 and my husband nearly 80, we're considering buying another rental property in these uncertain times; is this a wise decision?Having sold a property two years ago, we paid capital gains tax on it; was that necessary for everyone across the board?I've never been good with money, but God has changed my life in recent years. At 65, I've saved in my 401(k) but have debts and am seeking advice on financial planning for the future.Is it advisable to reduce my 401(k) contribution to the company match level and use the extra income to pay off my car loan faster? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Christian Credit CounselorsFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

“I tell you, use worldly wealth to make friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, they will welcome you into eternal dwellings.” Luke 16:9 Rachel McDonough is a Certified Financial Planner, a CertifiedKingdom Advisor and a regular FaithFi contributor. WHAT IS THE BEST INVESTMENT YOU EVER MADE, ACCORDING TO RACHEL MCDONOUGH?Rachel recounts a story of investing not in stocks or bonds but in a person's life with a simple act of kindness. She met a woman who identified herself as a witch and was initially very hostile. With just $35, Rachel and her friends paid for the woman's phone bill, leading to a surprising transformation. The woman opened up about her painful past and received the message of God's love through this act of generosity.Investing in kindness can lead to spiritual breakthroughs, even with a small amount like $35.A simple act of generosity can soften a hardened heart, demonstrating God's love in a tangible way.Rachel's story emphasizes the power of meeting physical needs as an entry point to share the gospel. HOW CAN PLANNED SPONTANEITY PLAY A ROLE IN GENEROSITY ACCORDING TO RACHEL?Rachel advocates for planned spontaneity in generosity, suggesting that people include a budget line item for spontaneous acts of kindness. This approach combines the intentionality of budgeting with the flexibility to respond to the Holy Spirit's leading. Rachel shares examples of how this concept has been put into practice, including a client who felt nudged to give $500 to a foster family and another couple who invested in their backyard as a ministry tool to reach out to the next generation.Setting aside money for spontaneous generosity removes hesitation and promotes readiness to act on God's prompting.Generosity planned in this way can lead to meaningful encounters and support for those in need, reflecting God's love through our actions.Such acts of kindness not only meet immediate needs but also open doors for sharing the gospel and building relationships based on faith. WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF INVESTING IN EVANGELISM THROUGH GENEROSITY?Rachel provides several inspiring examples of how generosity can facilitate evangelism. One story involves a client who noticed a foster family in need and responded to the Holy Spirit's nudge by giving them $500, which was a significant help during a financial crisis. Another example is a couple who plans to invest in a welcoming space for their children's friends, aiming to share the love of God with the next generation.Generosity can be a direct response to God's nudge, leading to impactful support for families and people in challenging circumstances.Large investments, like updating a backyard for ministry purposes, showcase a commitment to using personal resources for kingdom impact.Each act of kindness, whether spontaneous or planned, serves as a testimony of God's love and opens opportunities for gospel conversations. FINAL THOUGHTS IN MAKING ETERNAL INVESTMENTS THROUGH GENEROSITY:“Worldly wealth” can be invested to win souls, which are the “true riches” referred to in Luke 16:11. Prayerfully consider adding a line item to their budget — to be used for investing in the expansion of God’s family. The Great Commission is the one calling we have all received from God. Rachel says, while it doesn’t have to be spontaneous, she encourages some semi-planned spontaneity. This does three things.1. It will remove the hesitation you may feel as you consider what you can afford to give. That way, when a spontaneous opportunity is spotted, you’re ready.2. It will prevent miscommunication with your spouse if you agree beforehand that this is a priority for your family and you agree on an amount.3. It will make investing in souls an intentional and ongoing part of your lifestyle. Friends, I know of no better way to stay in close life-union with God than to take steps to grow his family. God cares about people and he shows up when we step out in faith to fulfill the Great Commission. His definition of “true riches” is souls! Jesus paid with his life for this treasure. As his stewards, managing his resources on his behalf, when we use money to pursue souls we find ourselves perfectly positioned for an adventure with God that can fulfill our deepest longings and fill up our neighborhood in heaven with friends for eternity. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I have a family member who didn't file taxes in 2017 and recently received a letter from the IRS. They're willing to pay but want to ensure it's done correctly and verify payment.After losing my job of 21 years and now living on Social Security, I'm trying to figure out how to manage financially without my previous income and considering how to access equity from my house to cover expenses. RESOURCES MENTIONED:IRS payments:irs.gov/paymentsChristian Credit CounselorsFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also availab

THE DANGERS OF LOVING MONEY AND THE CHRISTIAN RESPONSESome people view money as the source of life's greatest pleasures, equating it with security, success, freedom, and power. However, the Biblical perspective emphasizes trust in Jesus rather than in fleeting worldly possessions. THE PROBLEMS WITH LOVING MONEY:1 Timothy 6:10 warns about the love of money being the root of all kinds of evils, emphasizing the destruction and ruin it can bring.Loving money leads to a life-destroying path marked by temptation and harmful desires.It can cause us to stray from our faith, experiencing deep sorrow as a result.Money can become an idol, taking God's place as the highest priority in our lives. BIBLICAL WARNINGS AGAINST SERVING MONEY:Jesus taught in Matthew 6:24 that it's impossible to serve both God and money, highlighting the conflict between material wealth and spiritual devotion.Loving money is incompatible with serving God fully.Money, while neutral itself, can lead to sins like greed, fear, envy, and dishonesty when idolized. THE INSUFFICIENCY OF MONEY:Ecclesiastes 5:10 illustrates that money can never truly satisfy the human heart's desires, a void that only Jesus can fill. The pursuit of wealth for its own sake is ultimately unfulfilling. CHRISTIAN STRATEGY AGAINST THE TEMPTATION OF MONEY:1 Timothy 6:11-12 offers a way out for believers, urging them to flee from the love of money and pursue virtues like righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.Followers of Christ are encouraged to fight the good fight of faith and cling to the hope of eternal life. CONCLUSION:While the world offers many temptations, including the allure of wealth, believers are called to prioritize their spiritual well-being over material gains, staying true to their commitment to God and the eternal life promised through faith in Jesus Christ.If we can help you restore your focus on Jesus in your finances, I hope you’ll contact us at faithfi.com. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm interested in donor-advised funds for tax planning but concerned about supporting entities that don't align with my values. Can you provide guidance on choosing one, particularly your thoughts on the National Christian Foundation (NCF)?As I approach retirement, when is my Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) due and how do I find out the amount? Also, can I direct my RMD to charitable giving without facing taxes or penalties?We're considering moving into a retirement community in a few years. How should we manage our assets, including our home equity and IRA, to cover the entrance fee and monthly rent without incurring unnecessary taxes or penalties?A member of my church needs a car for transportation. I've saved $1,000 to help purchase one for her. Do you know any organizations where I can find a reliable car at a low price? RESOURCES MENTIONED:National Christian Foundation (NCF): For setting up a donor-advised fund aligned with Christian values.Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Art Rainer is author of the brand new book, “Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose.” He’s also a frequent contributor here at FaithFi. EVERY SPENDING DECISION IS A SPIRITUAL DECISIONArt Rainer emphasizes Jesus' words that where one's treasure is, their heart will also be.The Bible, with over 2000 verses on money, shows its spiritual significance.Managing money well reflects trust in God's promises and provision.Trusting God with finances is as crucial as trusting Him with one's soul. GOD'S PROMISES:God promises to provide and bless those who give, demonstrating His commitment to bless generosity.Malachi 3:10 highlights God's promise to bless those who bring their tithes, promising abundant blessings as a sign of His faithfulness.He doesn't tell us to give only to leave us hanging. No, he ties a promise to our generosity. He promises to pour out an abundance of blessings.He invites believers to test Him in this, promising blessings that may be financial, material, or spiritual.Generosity becomes part of something greater than our temporary life on Earth. GOD PROMISES HE WILL MULTIPLY: CAN YOU EXPLAIN THIS?The multiplication of the boy's five loaves and two fish in John 6 demonstrates God's ability to multiply what we give, fulfilling His purposes.Like the boy's small offering, our resources can be multiplied by God.This multiplication requires trust in God's ability to use our generosity effectively. GOD PROMISES HE WILL ENRICH: WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?Second Corinthians 9:11 explains God's intention to enrich those who give, enabling them to be generous and bless others.God seeks a good return on investment (ROI) from our giving. In.2nd Corinthians 9:11, Paul writes to those who trust God with their money, yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous.He gives so that we can give. He enriches us so we can be conduits of generosity, blessing others. CONCLUSION: GENEROSITY AS AN ACT OF TRUSTGenerosity is not just about giving but trusting God with our finances, demonstrating faith in His provision, multiplication, and enrichment.Generosity shifts our reliance from money to God.By trusting God with our soul, we should also trust Him with our finances, embracing our role as stewards of His resources. Art Rainer's insights remind us that financial stewardship and generosity are integral to our spiritual lives and our maturity in Christ, underlining the importance of trusting God with every aspect of our finances. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I received a settlement offer from my credit card company that's less than my outstanding balance; what should I be aware of if I accept this offer?Fidelity recommended I move my $50,000 savings into a high-yield or money market account; is this the same, and what are the differences?I have a loan from my 401(k) that's now paid off, including interest; does this interest benefit me or go somewhere else?We need a new roof costing $25,000 but don't have the full amount saved; should we take out a loan, and if so, what kind?My car lease is ending next month, and I can buy the car for $18,000; is purchasing it a good investment considering we're planning for a family and I want to avoid further payments? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Find a Certified Kingdom AdvisorFor comparing car values: Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ron Blue is the co-founder of Kingdom Advisors, author of a shelf-full of books on biblical finance, including Master Your Money. HELPING A DAUGHTER WHO'S GOING THROUGH A DIVORCE: WHAT'S THE BEST APPROACH?Support must be dynamic, adapting as circumstances change.Emotional, spiritual, and financial challenges intertwine, requiring sensitive navigation.Equitable treatment among siblings means addressing each child's unique needs, especially in crisis. HOW DID YOU AND JUDY DECIDE ON THE EXTENT AND MANNER OF HELP?The decision on how much to help was made progressively, acknowledging the fluid situation post-divorce.The process involves constant reassessment based on changing needs and situations.Supporting a child who feels like they've failed requires careful emotional and financial consideration.The principle of loving your children equally but treating them uniquely guided their approach, especially in allocating resources differently from other siblings. WHAT DID THE JOURNEY TO REESTABLISHING SELF-SUFFICIENCY FOR YOUR DAUGHTER LOOK LIKE?The path to self-sufficiency was gradual, spanning several years until she remarried and established her career.Support extended beyond financial help to include significant time spent babysitting and being involved in her and her son's life.The closeness to their grandson is a testament to the time and care invested during this period. HOW SIGNIFICANT WAS PRAYER IN THIS PROCESS?The power of prayer and the support of friends played a critical role in navigating the challenges of divorce and single parenthood.Ron Blue emphasizes the importance of adaptability, empathy, and a tailored approach when supporting a family member through divorce, underpinned by a strong foundation of prayer and support. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I found out my 403(b) contributions stopped without my knowledge, and now I have $49,000 sitting unmanaged; what should I do with this account moving forward?My daughter, who has moved away from her faith, wants to buy land in a foreign country and is asking for a significant financial contribution from us; how should we handle this as believing parents?I'm considering investing in a fixed index annuity offering a 40% initial bonus and subsequent returns based on interest rates; is this a good investment for me?I acquired two properties through a 1031 exchange and want them to transfer to my son upon my death without tax implications; how can I ensure this happens smoothly? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

IMPACT OF COVID ON HOUSING MARKET AND RENT VS. BUY DEBATEThere’s no question that we’re still feeling the impact of the COVID pandemic. The COVID pandemic significantly disrupted the housing market, increasing home prices and rental rates, making it challenging for first-time home buyers.Also during that time, rental rates also skyrocketed. In the age-old debate, rent vs. buy, things have shifted. CURRENT HOUSING MARKET CONDITIONS:Skyhigh mortgage payments: On average, new mortgage payments are now 52% higher than apartment rents, the largest gap in 27 years, according to CBRE.Low first-time home buyer activity: Only 26% of buyers were first-timers in 2022, the lowest percentage on record by the National Association of Realtors.Steady home values despite high mortgage rates: Despite expectations, high mortgage rates haven't lowered home values due to low housing inventory. RENTAL MARKET AS THE NEW "VALUE OPTION":Changing perspective on renting vs. buying: Renting is now seen as more financially sensible for many, as it doesn't involve skyhigh mortgage payments and allows for flexibility in this uncertain market. FUTURE MARKET CORRECTIONS EXPECTED:Market self-correction: The free market is expected to adjust—more houses built if needed, material costs to decrease with increased production, and interest rates to align with economic conditions, potentially making housing more affordable. STEPS TOWARDS HOMEOWNERSHIP WHILE RENTING:1. Reduce debt: Pay off credit cards and make extra payments on car loans to improve the debt-to-income ratio.2. Improve credit score: Ensure timely payments, check and dispute any errors on credit reports to secure lower interest rates.3. Increase savings: Save diligently for a down payment, aiming for 20% to avoid private mortgage insurance, ultimately reducing monthly payments. SCRIPTURAL ENCOURAGEMENT:Follow God’s financial principles and see what He will do. Romans 12:12 reads, “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I have about $4,000 in credit card bills due to lawyer bills and am considering taking money out of my IRA to pay it off; is this a good idea?My husband and I are considering selling our rental properties due to active management demands, but are concerned about capital gains; are there any other options?Our church has $500,000 we'd like to invest to get a better yield than our current savings account, considering we'll need some of the money in about 14 months; what do you recommend?I retired in January and have two 401(k)s not performing well; I'm considering moving some of the money into more guaranteed interest options and need advice on what percentage to allocate.I have a home with a $72,000 mortgage and $90,000 in savings; should I pay off my house with the savings? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Christian Credit CounselorsChristian Community Credit UnionFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Neile Simon is a Certified Credit Counselor with Christian Credit Counselors, and underwriter of this program. WHAT ARE SOME TRIED AND TRUE WAYS TO AVOID DEBT AND PROMOTE FINANCIAL WELLNESS?Neile Simon from Christian Credit Counselors shares key strategies to manage finances effectively, emphasizing the importance of budgeting, reducing debt, and saving for emergencies.Creating or updating a budget is crucial: Most Americans need to revisit their budgets, especially to adjust for inflation. Your budget should track major expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and more. It's also wise to review and possibly reduce subscriptions to entertainment services by examining bank and credit card statements for auto payments.Paying down credit card debt is vital: Credit card debt is expensive, with average interest rates over 20%. Making only minimum payments on a balance can extend repayment over years, resulting in high interest costs. Neely recommends exploring debt consolidation through a debt management program to lower interest rates and achieve faster debt elimination.Starting an emergency fund is essential: An emergency fund provides a financial buffer for unexpected expenses and can help avoid further debt. The recommendation is to save three to six months' worth of expenses, but starting with a smaller goal, like $500, is also beneficial. Automating savings can help build this fund over time. HOW CAN CHRISTIAN CREDIT COUNSELORS HELP PEOPLE FEELING OVERWHELMED BY DEBT?Christian Credit Counselors offer a debt management program designed to significantly reduce the time and cost of debt repayment, supporting clients to honor their debts fully.Christian Credit Counselors provide an action plan: They help individuals develop a comprehensive strategy to get out of debt 80% faster while fully honoring their debts. This includes lowering interest rates and establishing a manageable monthly payment plan.Free consultation for personalized advice: Interested individuals can reach out to Christian Credit Counselors for a free consultation to discuss their specific situation and get started on the path to financial wellness. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm trying to decide whether to use investment money or home equity to pay off credit card bills and car payments.I'm curious about the legitimacy and benefits of using online auto refinance companies for better rates compared to traditional banks or credit unions.I want my required IRA withdrawal to go directly to charity before taxes to avoid raising my tax bracket; is this possible?My husband and I, being mortgage-free and considering building a small Airbnb on our property for extra income, are wondering how to choose the best company for a home equity line of credit. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Christian Credit CounselorsMovement Mortgage Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aaron Caid joins us again today. Aaron’s the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of this program. INTEGRATING STEWARDSHIP INTO DAILY LIVING: HOW CAN CHRISTIANS PRACTICALLY APPLY THE CONCEPT OF STEWARDSHIP IN THEIR DAILY LIVESRecent research showed that while Christians understand the concept of stewardship, they often struggle with practical application in daily life.Over 80% of surveyed Christians believe applying stewardship principles positively impacts their lives.Many expressed a desire to learn basic stewardship principles and how to use financial blessings in a God-honoring way. THE IMPACT OF CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION (CCCU) ON MINISTRIES LIKE HOUSE OF REFUGE SUNNYSLOPE:House of Refuge Sunnyslope in Phoenix provides transitional housing and focuses on preventing homelessness and sharing the gospel.CCCU helped them acquire adjacent property to expand their single moms program, providing affordable financing and rapid problem-solving.CCCU’s contributions are guided by Scripture, investing resources in ministries that further the gospel and support vulnerable communities. THE ROLE OF CCCU MEMBERS IN KINGDOM WORK AND TREASURE BUILDING IN HEAVEN:Joining CCCU aligns members with a Christian financial institution that invests in spreading the gospel and aiding ministries.Members’ deposits help provide affordable financing for church construction and ministry growth.Products like the Cash Rewards Visa Card benefit members and contribute to Christian charities, with CCCU having donated over $6 million to date. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm interested in internet banks for their high savings and CD rates, which seem to offer over 5%, and I want your opinion on them.At 76 years old and retired with various accounts like annuities and a money market, I'm wondering if there are any other financial avenues I should consider at this stage in my life.With $125,000 saved to buy a property in Florida, I'm unsure what to do with this amount as it has been sitting in a bank for over 10 years in a regular money market account.I'm 61, and my wife is 63. We're looking to renovate our paid-off house and are considering how to finance the updates, including potentially using our HELOC, which is one minus prime.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Christian Credit CounselorsFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

DECIDING WHEN TO START RECEIVING SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITSIt's recommended to delay receiving Social Security benefits until Full Retirement Age (FRA) of 66 or 67, as benefits are permanently reduced by about 8% for each year you start taking them before reaching FRA. BREAK-EVEN POINT FOR DELAYING SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITSIf you delay receiving Social Security benefits until FRA, it takes nearly 12 years to recoup the money you missed by not taking benefits early. After around age 79, you'll be financially ahead each month for the rest of your life. LIFE EXPECTANCY CONSIDERATIONS FOR SOCIAL SECURITYOnce you reach age 65, the average life expectancy is 86 for females and 83 for males. While there's no guarantee of living that long, the odds are in your favor, making it beneficial to wait for higher monthly benefits. WORKING WHILE RECEIVING SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITSIf you start receiving Social Security benefits before FRA and continue to work, your benefits will be temporarily reduced if you earn more than a certain amount. For 2024, the earning limit is $22,320 before FRA and $59,520 in the year you reach FRA. REIMBURSEMENT OF REDUCED SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITSAny reduction in your Social Security benefits due to earning above the limit will be reimbursed once you reach FRA. The reduction is calculated as $1 for every $2 or $3 earned above the limit, depending on your age. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:As a pastor with a salary of $70,000 and a housing allowance of $20,000, can I still claim the standard government deduction after reducing my taxable income to $50,000?I have a rental property I'm considering selling in a year or two; do I have to pay capital gains on it and can I use some of the sale funds to pay off my primary residence?My husband and I are in our early 50s, working with a solid retirement plan, and are exploring mutual funds to save for home renovations and other goals in the next 5-10 years.RESOURCES MENTIONED:For selecting mutual funds: Betterment or Schwab Intelligent Portfolios Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Leo Sabo is president of the Christian Stewardship Network and a Faith and Finance contributor. He also knows a thing or two about starting a stewardship ministry. THE FUNDAMENTAL IMPORTANCE OF STEWARDSHIP MINISTRIES IN CHURCHESBiblical Foundation: Stewardship ministries are vital as they align with biblical teachings about money and possessions, which are prevalent throughout the Bible.Discipleship and Purpose: These ministries guide congregants in using money as a tool for fulfilling their God-given calling and purposes, emphasizing discipleship in financial matters. STEPS FOR ESTABLISHING A STEWARDSHIP MINISTRY IN A CHURCH1. Securing Leadership Support: Begin by gaining the church leadership's endorsement. Emphasize that the ministry's focus is on making true disciples and equipping them, rather than just fundraising.2. Assessing Congregational Needs: Understand the financial needs and desires of the church members through surveys. Tailor the ministry's educational content to these identified needs.3. Team Formation and Training: Assemble a passionate team and provide them with comprehensive training that includes both biblical teachings and practical application.4. Initiating the Ministry: Launch with a significant event, like a seminar or workshop, to establish the ministry's presence and importance in the church community.5. Celebrating and Reporting Impact: Share success stories and regularly report the ministry's positive impact to maintain support and encourage participation. RESOURCES AND SUPPORT FOR CHURCHES INITIATING STEWARDSHIP MINISTRIESChristian Stewardship Network: The network offers a wealth of resources, including training programs and a platform for connecting with other stewardship leaders. Annual Forums and Continuous Learning: They organize events like the CSN Annual Forum and continuously release new courses to keep stewardship leaders updated and equipped.Membership and Community Connection: By joining the network, church leaders can engage with a larger community of stewardship professionals, enhancing their ministry's effectiveness through shared knowledge and experiences. CONCLUSION AND ENCOURAGEMENT FOR PARTICIPATIONImportance of Involvement: Leo Saibot underscores the significance of these ministries and encourages listeners to visit the Christian Stewardship Network for further guidance and resources. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ALSO ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:My 14-year-old son has saved $100 and is asking for advice on how to start smart with his financial life; what would be the best advice for him?I'm contemplating a reverse mortgage for my home valued at over a million dollars, but I'm concerned about the implications and whether it's the best option for my financial situation.I own a rental property and the renter wants to buy it, along with an additional acre of land; I'm considering selling it and need advice on how to handle this transaction and its impact on my finances.I'm looking at downsizing and came across a 'lifestyle home loan' which seems like a reverse mortgage; I want to know if this is a good option for me and what it entails. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Robinhood or Stockpile for fractional shares investingEventide Mutual Funds for faith-based investingMovement Mortgage for evaluating or getting a second opinion on home loans Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tim Macready is head of Global Multi-Asset Investing with BrightLight, an EverSource Wealth Advisors Team. HOW DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN AND A LEADER IN THE FAITH-BASED INVESTING MOVEMENT?Tim grew up on the mission field and returned to Australia for studies, initially working with pension plans. His desire to do something meaningful led him to a faith-based pension fund in Sydney. For 15 years, he has explored what it means to be a faithful steward of God's resources, now working with pension funds, investment advisors, and families at the intersection of faith and investing. CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE MARKETS IN INVESTING?Private markets differ from public markets in investment structures, using vehicles like private market funds, real estate investment trusts, and limited partnerships instead of mutual funds, stocks, and ETFs. These are typically aimed at more experienced investors with larger investment sizes and hold various assets such as venture capital, private equity, or private credit. HOW DO PRIVATE MARKET INVESTMENTS OFFER DIVERSIFICATION?Private markets are used by large investors to diversify into different types of assets and specific themes. These investments are becoming more accessible to smaller investors, offering diversification away from traditional public stocks and bonds. HOW DO FAITH-BASED INVESTMENTS INTERSECT WITH PRIVATE MARKETS?Initially, there were hardly any faith-based options in private markets, but now there are 50 to 100 faith-based private market funds and hundreds more in broader impact investing. Most are still for qualified or accredited investors, but I'm optimistic that faith-integrated private market investments will become available to everyday investors soon. WHAT ARE THE RISKS AND POTENTIAL PERFORMANCE OF PRIVATE MARKET INVESTMENTS?Investors should be aware of risks, especially liquidity, as private market funds cannot be sold as quickly as public stocks or bonds. Private markets can have more volatile performance due to concentrated portfolios but offer diversification and potential for investment outcomes independent of public markets. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm a 76-year-old single woman with a home valued over a million dollars, $80,000 in cash, and $2,000 monthly from Social Security. I enjoy a good lifestyle but am unsure about my financial future and options.I own a rental property adjacent to my home and the renter wants to buy it, along with an additional acre of land. Should I sell it as one parcel to maximize capital gains, and how can I transition from this passive income?I'm currently employed full-time but struggling to make ends meet and pay off debts, including credit cards and a personal loan. I'm considering taking out a loan to invest in a cryptocurrency business for additional income. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Movement MortgageChristian Credit Counselors Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

GOD'S CREATION AND EXPECTATIONS:God created humanity in His image, as reflected in Psalm 139:13 and Ephesians 2:10. These Scriptures emphasize His intention for His people to live justly and righteously. THE REALITY OF FINANCIAL INJUSTICE:The world, marred by sins such as greed, envy, dishonesty, and pride, often leads to the unfair financial exploitation of others, a stark reality that Christians must recognize. BIBLICAL WARNINGS AGAINST FINANCIAL INJUSTICE:The Scriptures provide clear warnings against various forms of financial injustice:Proverbs 22:16 and 14:31 caution against oppressing the poor, teaching that such actions lead to poverty and are an insult to God.Proverbs 20:10 denounces dishonesty in transactions, labeling unequal weights and measures as abominable to the Lord.Psalm 12:5 reflects God's concern for victims of robbery and embezzlement, assuring His protection and support.Exodus 23 explicitly forbids false testimony and bias in legal matters, underscoring the importance of integrity in financial dealings. CONSEQUENCES OF INJUSTICE:Galatians 6:7 tells us that God is not mocked; individuals will reap the consequences of their actions, highlighting the seriousness of engaging in injustice. CHRISTIAN RESPONSE TO INJUSTICE:In confronting sin within the community, Christians should adhere to Jesus' instructions in Matthew 18.Reporting legal wrongdoing to authorities is a necessary step when witnessing financial misconduct.Prayer is a powerful tool for addressing injustices beyond one's immediate influence, seeking God's intervention for the oppressed and the exposure of evil.Victims of financial injustice are encouraged to seek resolution through church or secular authorities and to expose fraudulent activities to prevent others from being victimized. MAINTAINING PERSONAL INTEGRITY:In cases of personal discrimination or unkindness, upholding one's integrity is crucial. Psalm 41 offers solace, affirming God's support for those who maintain their integrity.Jesus' assurance in John 16:33 provides comfort in the midst of worldly injustices, reminding believers of His ultimate victory. CONCLUSION:We wrap up our thoughts on financial injustice with a reminder from Micah 6:8 that Christians are expected to “… act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with our God. “ ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I've been diagnosed with cancer and plan to retire this year; my wife will continue working. How should I manage my finances, including $500,000 in a 401k and the option of taking Social Security now or later?I'm 66 years old and recently moved from my home to a rental. I'm enjoying renting but wonder if there's a benchmark for when it's wise to step back into homeownership.Should I pay a tithe on my Social Security income, and if so, how do I calculate the right amount to give?Where can my son and his wife go for budgeting assistance? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Certified Christian Financial Counselors Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.