Faith & Finance

"Do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words." – Matthew 6:7In Matthew 6, Jesus warns against meaningless repetition in prayer. Thankfully, He doesn’t leave us wondering how to pray. Instead, He gives us the Lord’s Prayer—an example of how we should approach God with our needs.But have you ever noticed how often we overlook a key part of this prayer? The request for provision:"Give us this day our daily bread." – Matthew 6:11This simple yet profound verse reminds us that God is our provider. He wants us to come before Him humbly, asking for what we need. And in a world where self-sufficiency is often celebrated, this truth is more important than ever.God Is Our ProviderJesus’ words in Matthew 6:11 serve as a powerful reminder that we depend on God for our most basic needs—starting with food. It’s easy to take this for granted, especially in a time and place where food shortages are rarely a daily concern.But do we truly recognize that all provision comes from God? Do we regularly thank Him for our meals and daily necessities? Or do we fall into the trap of thinking that our own efforts—our jobs, savings, and financial planning—are what sustain us?It’s only when we face scarcity—when food, money, or security seem uncertain—that we remember our true dependence on God. But Jesus calls us to recognize this truth every day, not just in times of crisis.The phrase “Give us this day our daily bread” has a deeper meaning than just food. It speaks to all our needs—physical, emotional, and spiritual. We hunger for more than just nourishment. We long for peace, love, purpose, and meaningful relationships.Jesus teaches us to bring these needs to God in prayer, acknowledging that only He can truly satisfy us. The Lord’s Prayer is not just about survival—it’s about trusting that God will provide everything we need, both physically and spiritually.The Danger of Self-SufficiencyFor those of us living in relative abundance, the idea of asking for daily bread might feel distant. Unlike Jesus’ original audience, who often faced food insecurity, we may not think about whether we’ll eat tomorrow. In fact, for many, the challenge is having too much rather than too little.Yet, even in prosperity, Jesus’ words remain critical. This prayer reminds us that we are not self-sufficient. It helps guard against the illusion that we control our own destiny.The danger of materialism is subtle. We may not consciously reject God’s provision, but when we place our trust in our bank accounts, investments, or careers, we begin to believe that we sustain ourselves. That mindset leads to pride—and ultimately distances us from God.Jesus knew our hearts would struggle with this. That’s why He later says:"Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." – Matthew 6:33We don’t need to worry about our next meal, our financial security, or our future. What we truly need is God Himself. And prayer reminds us of that.Breaking the Grip of MaterialismOne way to keep our hearts aligned with this truth is through generosity. Giving is a tangible way to acknowledge that God—not our wealth—is our provider. When we give, we loosen the grip that money has on us and demonstrate our faith that God will continue to meet our needs.There will always be reasons to worry—economic downturns, market fluctuations, unexpected expenses. But these uncertainties should drive us to prayer, not fear.So, the next time you pray, “Give us this day our daily bread,” say it with sincerity. Recognize your dependence on God. Thank Him for His provision. And let that gratitude lead you to trust—and give—more freely.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 68 and plan to retire at 72. I owe $95,000 on a condo with a 7.125% interest rate. I've been paying an extra $1,000 per month towards the principal, but I'd like to know if I should do something else with that money instead of paying down the mortgage. I want to be debt-free when I retire. What should I do?I have some stock savings I was planning to use for retirement. But I had to max out a credit card a couple of years ago when I lost income. The collection agency is offering to let me pay 75-80% of the debt in a lump sum. Should I take money from my stocks to pay this off or try to work out a monthly payment plan instead?I recently won a $570,000 home from the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway. When I took ownership, I had to pay $205,000 in taxes. My CPA says I could pay an additional 20% capital gains tax when I sell. I've had the home for a few years, and its value hasn't changed much. Can you help me understand the capital gains tax and how I can minimize the tax burden?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly MagazineChristian Credit CounselorsLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Ki

You’re generous; you love to give. But how do you know that your giving is having a real impact?It’s great that you have a heart for giving. The next step is to make sure your giving really counts…and that’s by aligning it with God’s heart. David Wills is here today to help us do that.David Wills is President Emeritus of The National Christian Foundation (NCF). He is also the co-author of Investing in God’s Business (The “How To” of Smart Christian Giving) and numerous articles and lectures nationwide. The Three Big Questions of GenerosityWhen it comes to giving, most Christians wrestle with three fundamental questions:Why should I be generous?How do I give?Where should I give?The first two questions deal with the heart and the head—our motivations for generosity and the practical ways to implement it. But the third question—where should I give?—often receives less attention. Instead of starting with our passions, we should begin with God's priorities.God asks us to be generous on every occasion so that it brings Him glory and joy to our hearts. But instead of asking, “What am I passionate about?” We should ask, “What is God passionate about?”A Framework for Giving: The Three-by-Three GridTo help believers align their giving with God’s priorities, David introduced a three-by-three framework that incorporates both geography and biblical causes.1. The Geography of GivingA great biblical guide for the where of giving comes from Acts 1:8:“You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”This verse provides a three-tiered approach to geographic giving:Local (Jerusalem)—Giving within our immediate communities, such as supporting our local church and meeting local needs. National (Judea and Samaria)—Supporting broader efforts within our country, including church planting, evangelism, and charitable organizations. International (Ends of the Earth)—Expanding generosity to global missions, Bible translation, and aid to those who have never heard the Gospel.Most people focus on what’s right in front of them—their local church or nearby needs. However, a biblical giving strategy challenges us to think beyond our immediate surroundings.2. The Biblical Priorities of GivingScripture reveals three overarching themes that reflect God's heart for giving:The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20)—Supporting efforts that spread the Gospel, such as evangelism, church planting, missions, and discipleship. The Greatest Commandment (Matthew 22:37-38)—Giving to ministries that help people grow in their love for God, including churches, theological education, and discipleship initiatives. The Great Compassion (Matthew 22:39)—Caring for our neighbors by giving to those in need—orphans, widows, the poor, and the vulnerable.These three biblical priorities form the vertical axis of the giving framework, while geography forms the horizontal axis.By overlaying these two dimensions—geography and biblical priorities—believers can develop a well-rounded and God-centered giving plan. This framework helps us see the gaps in our giving. Many believers focus on what’s nearby, but God calls us to care for those who have never heard the Gospel or are in extreme need.Making Giving a Family PracticeOne of the most powerful aspects of this framework is its ability to teach children about generosity. Parents can use this model to discuss giving priorities as a family and even create a family giving plan that reflects God’s heart.We encourage families to:Sit down together and map out their giving on the three-by-three frameworkDiscuss where they are giving too much or too little.Involve children in researching and selecting ministries that align with biblical priorities.Regularly review and adjust their giving strategy as a family.For those who want to track their giving over time, organizations like the National Christian Foundation (NCF) provide tools to help families and individuals monitor their generosity.Aligning Your Giving with God's HeartUltimately, giving isn’t about following personal passions—it’s about reflecting God’s heart. By using a biblical framework for giving, we can be more intentional and experience greater joy in generosity.Take Action Today:Assess your current giving. Does it align with God’s heart?Use the three-by-three framework to create a more balanced, intentional plan.Involve your family in discussions about generosity.Consider using a giving platform like NCF to track and refine your generosity over time.To read David’s full article on this topic, explore Faithful Steward, FaithFi’s new quarterly magazine. You can access it by becoming a FaithFi Partner for $35 per month or $400 per year at FaithFi.com/give.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My daughter is turning 16 today, and I'd like to help her become more responsible with her money. Can you recommend any debit cards or apps that are good options for teens? I'm looking for something faith-oriented.I'm work

"And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." — Philippians 4:19This verse is a powerful reminder that God is our ultimate provider, no matter the economic uncertainties we face. Recently, we have seen that many have been concerned about trade tariffs and their potential impact on the economy. Today, Bob Doll joins us to explain what this means and what we can expect moving forward.Bob Doll is the CEO and CIO of Crossmark Global Investments. He regularly contributes to Faith and Finance and other media outlets like Bloomberg TV, Fox Business, and CNBC. What Are Tariffs and How Do They Affect Us?Tariffs are essentially taxes. If a 10% tariff is placed on imported goods, the price of those goods increases. That means consumers pay more for the products they need, which can slow down economic activity.However, tariffs are not just about taxation; they are often used as a bargaining tool in international trade negotiations. Sometimes, it depends on the day of the week because tariffs are on one day and then off the next. This back-and-forth can create uncertainty in the market and impact businesses, investors, and consumers alike.Why Do Markets React Negatively to Tariffs?The stock market tends to respond negatively whenever there's talk of tariffs. Why?Tariffs can slow economic growth. If companies and consumers have to pay more for goods, they either buy fewer products or cut back on spending in other areas. This dampens growth, and the market doesn’t like it.Could tariffs alone push the economy into a recession? If they are significant enough, last too long, and trigger retaliation from other countries, it could certainly lead to what economists call a trade war. A trade war is not healthy for economic growth, but cooler minds will likely prevent it from escalating too far.The Strategy Behind Tariffs: Negotiation or Necessity?So, is the push for tariffs simply a negotiation tactic, or is there a deeper economic issue at play?There’s no question that the U.S. has a trade imbalance with many countries. Addressing this imbalance is part of the reasoning behind tariffs. However, political leaders understand the risks and use tariffs more as a bargaining tool than a long-term strategy. They don’t want to sink the economy because these leaders have a vested interest in economic stability.Finding Peace in Economic UncertaintyDiscussions about tariffs, markets, and recessions can easily lead to fear. Economic uncertainty often leaves people feeling anxious about their financial future. But as believers, we have a greater source of security.Here are three key reminders:Leaders Care About Economic Stability—Regardless of their approach, political leaders generally want a strong economy. The Economy is Resilient—Whether we have tariffs or not, the economy is doing well, and its economic fundamentals are still strong. God is in Control—Most importantly, our hope is not in governments, markets, or policies but in God. God knows the end from the beginning, including tariffs. Psalm 91 reminds us that God is our refuge and fortress—we can rest securely in His protection.Focus on What You Can Control: Faithful StewardshipWhile we can’t control global trade policies, tax laws, or the stock market, we can control how we manage our own finances. We can control our own little economies—what passes through our hands. That means practicing faithful stewardship.We need to take care of everything God has given us—not just money, but all aspects of life: our minds, our bodies, our time. Being wise stewards of our finances means making thoughtful financial decisions, saving wisely, and giving generously. After all, it’s not ours; it’s all God’s.When we recognize that everything we have belongs to God, it transforms the way we handle money. Rather than holding onto it tightly, we can give joyfully and generously.Economic uncertainty will always exist, whether through tariffs, inflation, or market fluctuations. But believers are called to a higher perspective. Instead of being driven by fear, we can rest in the truth that God is sovereign over all things—even global trade policies.The key is to focus on what we can control: managing our finances wisely, practicing faithful stewardship, and embracing the joy of generosity. And through it all, we can trust that God is our refuge and provider, no matter what challenges come our way.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I recently received a sizable inheritance. I have some ideas about what to do with it, but I wanted to get your thoughts first.I would like to know where and how to invest. My husband and I are both retired. I have $200,000 left in my TSP and approximately $270,000 in IRA CDs, a small portion of which is Roth IRAs.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly MagazineCrossmark Global InvestmentsLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Pa

"Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house." - Proverbs 24:27That verse underscores the need for planning and execution, key elements for long-term financial success. Matt Bell joins us today to discuss how to put planning and execution to work for you.Matt Bell is the Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. The Importance of a Financial PlanLife tends to happen to us while we’re making other plans. Unfortunately, for many people, life happens without any financial planning at all. Millions of individuals fail to establish a clear strategy for managing their money, and even those who attempt to plan often struggle to stay on track.Without a plan, it's easy to drift financially, reacting to circumstances rather than proactively building a stable financial future. The impact of financial planning—and, more importantly, execution—can be profound.A 2011 study analyzed data from over 1,200 individuals aged 50 and older, examining their approach to financial planning and its effect on their retirement net worth. The study categorized participants into four groups based on their level of planning and follow-through:Non-Planners: More than two-thirds of those studied had not done any financial planning despite being close to retirement. Many had not even researched what to expect from Social Security. Simple Planners: This group at least considered their future financial needs and made basic calculations about saving for retirement. However, only about half of them created a tangible financial plan. Serious Planners: These individuals sought financial information and even paid for professional planning advice. However, like the previous group, about half failed to implement their plans. Successful Planners: The final group—only about 20% of those studied—both created and consistently followed a financial plan over many years.Even Small Steps Can Make a Big DifferenceOne encouraging takeaway from this study is that every step toward better planning leads to improved financial outcomes. Even moving from the “non-planner” to the “simple planner” category doubled or tripled net worth at retirement. Advancing to the “serious planner” level added another 25% to 35% in wealth accumulation.This demonstrates that financial planning isn’t an all-or-nothing proposition. Even taking small steps—like estimating future financial needs or using basic retirement calculators—can lead to significant benefits.Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit.” This timeless wisdom underscores the necessity of both planning and execution.If you haven’t started the planning process yet, or if you have a plan but aren’t consistently following it, research shows there’s substantial value in getting back on track. Tools like Sound Mind Investing’s MoneyGuide, or even free online retirement calculators, can be a great way to start.Long-term financial success doesn’t happen by accident—it requires both a solid plan and the discipline to follow through. Every step forward matters, whether you’re just beginning your financial journey or looking to refine your existing plan.For more insights, you can read the full article, “Planning and Execution: The Keys to Long-Term Financial Success,” at SoundMindInvesting.org.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a 401(k) contributing 8%, but my company stopped matching and moved to a pension system. Should I roll over my 401(k) to a Roth or annuity? The balance is around $32,000.I know we need to be generous with our money, and I want to do the same with God's money. So, I was looking into donating to St. Jude's Hospital and my local church. Is it possible to do both, or should I double down and donate all of it to my local church?I have an HSA and had to start Medicare 7.5 years ago. I read I can retroactively take out the Medicare Part B premiums I've paid from my HSA over those 7.5 years. Is that correct?My wife is 62, and we wanted to know if she should start taking Social Security now. We don't need the money for income; we would just invest 100% of it. We're not sure what the drawbacks would be.I'm 64 years old and have significant money in IRA CDs. I considered slowly withdrawing the money every year to increase my liquid assets. I understand that the money goes toward my annual income, but I wanted to know if there is another way to lessen the taxes I have to pay.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationSound Mind Investing | MoneyGuidePlanning and Execution: The Keys to Long-Term Financial Success (Article from Sound Mind Investing)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800)

If you’re worried about your financial future, struggling to figure out how to pay for college, or feeling the pinch at the grocery store, you’re not alone. Financial challenges can make joy seem out of reach, but as Christians, we are called to face difficulties with a heart at peace.When financial worries—or struggles of any kind—overwhelm us, God’s Word offers wisdom and reassurance. Here are three biblical principles to hold onto in difficult times:Hardships are opportunities to grow in your faith.Joy and peace are not dependent on your circumstances.Your struggles have a purpose.Hardships Can Strengthen Your FaithThe book of James opens with a powerful challenge:"Consider it pure joy…whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance." – James 1:2-3At first glance, this perspective on financial struggles might seem counterintuitive. Why would we consider trials to be beneficial? James isn’t saying that we should enjoy hardship itself but that through trials, God is shaping us into the people He wants us to be.James was writing to believers far from home, discouraged, and facing persecution—challenges far greater than most of us experience. Yet he reassured them:“The testing of your faith develops perseverance, and perseverance must finish its work so you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” – James 1:3-4Like muscles that grow stronger through resistance and tearing down before being rebuilt, our faith is strengthened through trials. Financial difficulties can either weaken our faith or push us closer to God, deepening our trust in His provision.Joy and Peace Are Not Dependent on CircumstancesFinancial struggles are a part of life, but joy is an attitude that looks beyond the pain and frustration of the moment. Nehemiah 8:10 reminds us:"The joy of the Lord is our strength."This joy isn’t based on how much money is in our bank account or whether our financial future is secure. Instead, it comes from knowing that our true security is in Christ.Similarly, peace isn’t dependent on our financial situation. True peace is found in the assurance that nothing can separate us from God’s love:“Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 8:39This is the kind of peace that Philippians 4:7 describes as “surpassing all understanding.” It doesn’t make sense from a worldly perspective, but it is real and available to us when we place our trust in God rather than our financial stability.Does God Want Me to Be Happy?A common question people ask during financial hardship is, “Doesn’t God want me to be happy?” The assumption is that if God is loving, He would protect us from circumstances that cause discomfort or pain. However, this is a misunderstanding of God's character.God is not a cosmic Santa Claus who gives us everything we want to make life easy. Instead, He offers us something far greater—Himself. He created us for a relationship with Him, and true fulfillment is found when He is our greatest treasure.“Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” – Romans 8:17Happiness is fleeting, tied to external circumstances like economic trends, financial stability, and shifting emotions. But joy in Christ is constant, anchored in God's unchanging character. We can navigate any financial challenge with peace because He is always good, just, and loving.Your Struggles Have a PurposeNo trial is without meaning. God may allow financial struggles for several reasons:To strengthen our faith and deepen our dependence on Him. To reveal His love and provision as we trust Him. To redirect us when we’ve drifted off course.Romans 8:28 gives us a powerful promise:“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”Even in financial hardships, God is at work. He is refining us, drawing us closer to Him, and shaping us into the people He created us to be.Understanding these biblical truths can transform the way we approach financial challenges. When we recognize that hardships grow our faith, that joy and peace come from God rather than our circumstances, and that our struggles have a purpose, we can face uncertain times with confidence.No matter what financial difficulty you are facing today, remember this: God is with you, working all things together for your good. Trust in Him, and He will lead you to true joy and peace.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm helping a friend with about $4,000 in payday loan debt. Can Christian Credit Counselors help him get out of this debt?I'm 70 and approaching retirement. A well-known investment firm, Fisher, has offered to manage my IRA. I've always self-managed it and am a bit conservative. They say they can nearly

“Let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.” - Ephesians 5:33Love and respect are often conveyed in the words that spouses choose to communicate. Those words can have a big impact on the marriage relationship. Kathleen Edelman joins us to discuss choosing the right words for your spouse.Kathleen Edelman is the author of “I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication.” She is certified in biblical studies and Christian Counseling Psychology and has spent over thirty years coaching clients in communication.The Key to Healthy Communication in MarriageCommunication styles are the key to understanding one another. There's a big gray area between what we say and what our spouse hears. Each temperament speaks its own language, and we must apply it to become fluent in our spouse’s language.Many marital conflicts appear to be about money, parenting, or household responsibilities, but at their core, they stem from miscommunication. Recognizing that your spouse’s temperament affects how they express and receive information is the first step toward reducing misunderstandings.One of the biggest communication pitfalls is assumption—assuming that your spouse speaks and understands your language. That’s not true. We each speak our own language and must become fluent in our spouse’s language.Another common trap is operating out of our weaknesses rather than our strengths. Ask yourself: “What part did I play in this miscommunication?”“How can I choose differently to stay in my strengths?”Most miscommunication is not intentional, she emphasizes. Rather, it’s a result of speaking different emotional and verbal languages.The Power of Words: Choosing to Build Up, Not Tear DownEphesians 4:29 reminds us:"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."Our words hold incredible power. They can either build up or tear down our spouse. Learning to communicate in a way that blesses rather than wounds is a game changer in marriage.Listening is a critical skill in communication, and there are three key practices for improving it:The Power of the Pause—Before responding, take a moment to reflect. Instead of reacting to what was said, focus on why it was said. Listening to Understand—Rather than formulating your response while your spouse is talking, actively listen to grasp their perspective. Responding, Not Reacting—Choose words carefully, ensuring they are constructive rather than defensive.We should desire that every word that comes out of our mouths be a gift to the person we speak to.Of course, it’s also crucial to remember that communication is more than words—it includes body language, tone, and facial expressions. Our temperament even affects how we express ourselves nonverbally. Everything you do is motivated by the design God gave you. Understanding how our spouse interprets our nonverbal cues can help avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.Understanding Temperaments in MarriageA significant takeaway from Kathleen’s work is the importance of understanding temperaments—both our own and our spouse’s. Kathleen’s book includes an inventory to help couples identify their temperament, which can be a game changer in communication.Each temperament has specific needs that shape how they engage in communication:Yellows (Sanguine)—Need fun, people, and spontaneity. They may struggle with feeling restricted.Reds (Choleric)—Need goals, control, and results. They want to be part of decision-making.Blues (Melancholic)—Need security and order. They may be hesitant to spend money without planning.Greens (Phlegmatic)—Need balance and peace. They want to avoid conflict and seek compromise.When couples recognize these differences, it fosters empathy and prevents unnecessary frustration.Money is a significant source of marital conflict, but these disagreements often stem from temperament differences more than financial realities.Yellows love generosity but also crave financial security. They may struggle with balancing saving and spontaneous giving.Reds want financial goals and a clear plan for achieving them.Blues prioritize security and tend to be more cautious with money.Greens seek balance and prefer avoiding financial stress.Understanding why your spouse approaches money how they do can foster mutual respect and teamwork. Instead of seeing their perspective as frustrating, you can recognize it as their God-given design.Keeping Communication Strong Over the YearsAs years pass, spouses may drift apart if they stop investing in communication. That’s why couples are encouraged to stay in dating mode:Remember why you fell in love. Remember when you were dating—you put your best of yourself forward. Keep doing that. Look for the best in your spouse. Instead of focusing on their weaknesses, celebrate their strengths. Avoid complacency. Once you become cont

With financial fraud on the rise, protecting your personal and banking information has never been more important. A recent JD Power study found that nearly 29% of bank account holders experienced fraud in some form over a 12-month period.To help us navigate the best security practices, Aaron Caid shares expert advice on how to safeguard your accounts from cybercriminals.Aaron Caid is the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. 1. Strengthen Your Password SecurityA strong, unique password is your first line of defense against fraud. Here’s how to create one that’s tough to crack:Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.Avoid using common words or easily guessed phrases (e.g., "password123" or your birthdate).Consider using a password manager to generate and securely store complex passwords.In addition to a strong password, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your financial apps. This extra layer of security requires a one-time passcode (usually sent via text or an authentication app) to verify your identity when logging in or completing transactions.Pro Tip: Turn off text message previews on your phone. If a scammer steals your phone, they could see your passcode on your lock screen and gain access to your accounts.2. Monitor Your Accounts & Stay Alert for FraudVigilance is key when it comes to detecting fraudulent activity early.Regularly check your bank accounts for unauthorized transactions.Review your credit reports through the three major bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com.Sign up for transaction alerts from your bank or credit union to get notified of suspicious activity.Fraudsters also use phishing scams—fake emails, texts, or calls—to trick people into giving away personal information. These scams often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly.Never share your:Username or passwordOne-time passcodesAccount or personal information over the phone, email, chat, or textHackers can spoof phone numbers and email addresses to make messages appear legitimate, even impersonating banks and credit unions. If you’re ever unsure, call your financial institution directly to verify any suspicious messages.3. Use Secure Wi-Fi & Protect Your Personal InformationWe all love a good coffee shop work session, but public Wi-Fi networks are a big security risk when accessing sensitive financial accounts. Hackers can intercept your data and steal your login credentials.Always use a secure, password-protected Wi-Fi network when banking online.Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for added encryption and security.Also, ensure you don’t let identity thieves find your personal information in the trash!Shred documents containing sensitive details like account numbers, social security numbers, or other financial information. Shredders cost as little as $35—a small price to pay for big security.Stay Secure & Bank with PurposeAs fraud prevention becomes increasingly important, many Christians are seeking banking solutions that align with their values. Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU) offers a Harvest Bundle—a unique checking and savings account designed to help members grow their savings while supporting missions worldwide.4% APY on the first $5,000 in Harvest Checking5% APY on the first $5,000 in Harvest Savings1.5% cash back on purchases with the Cash Rewards Visa CardA portion of proceeds supports missions, including gospel outreach, protecting vulnerable children, and fighting human trafficking. For those looking to align their banking with their faith, the Harvest Bundle from CCCU offers competitive rates and kingdom impact—a win-win for wise financial stewardship.If you're looking for a banking partner that reflects your faith and values, consider joining Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU).Ready to bank with purpose? Visit JoinChristianCommunity.com today!On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Can you provide a list of the faith-based investments that I can invest in? I'm trying to invest differently with my 401(k) funds. I have an old work comp claim that was incorrectly billed, causing Medicare to deny payment. What happened, and how can I prevent this in the future? Also, if I submit a claim to the work comp company and they only pay a portion, am I responsible for the remaining balance? I own a free-and-clear home in Davenport. There is no mortgage anymore, and I would like to transfer 50% of ownership to a family member. Would I have to pay any taxes, or would my family members have to pay them because of this transfer? I'm retired, receiving $70,000 annually from disability and SSDI. I have $50,000 in a TSP account and $9,000 in debt that I'm paying off. I'm currently renting for $1,500 per month. Should I use my VA loan to purchase a home or just continue renting? I have a Roth IRA that I formed from a 403(b) annuity a couple of years ag

"So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s." - Matthew 22:21This statement from Jesus is one of the most profound and thought-provoking verses in the New Testament. While it is often quoted in discussions about paying taxes, it carries far deeper implications. What does this passage truly mean for us as Christ-followers today? Let’s explore its historical context and the spiritual truths that challenge us to live with a kingdom perspective.The Trap Set for JesusThe words of Jesus in Matthew 22:21 came during a tense confrontation between Him and the Pharisees. They sought to trap Him with a politically charged question:"Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?"At that time, Israel was under Roman rule, and paying taxes to the emperor was a sore subject among the Jewish people. Saying “yes” would alienate Him from His Jewish followers, who resented Roman oppression. Saying “no” would paint Him as a revolutionary in the eyes of the Roman authorities.But instead of falling into their trap, Jesus turned the question back on them. He asked for a denarius—a Roman coin bearing Caesar’s image—and posed a question of His own:"Whose likeness and inscription is this?"When they answered, “Caesar’s,” Jesus delivered His famous response:"Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s."On a surface level, Jesus affirmed that people should fulfill their civic duties, including paying taxes. The coin bore Caesar’s image, signifying that it belonged to the government. By saying, “Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s,” Jesus acknowledged the legitimacy of human authority.This teaching aligns with what the Apostle Paul later wrote in Romans 13:1-7, where he urged believers to submit to governing authorities, recognizing them as instruments of God’s order. Paying taxes, respecting laws, and contributing to society are responsibilities of every Christian.Yet, Jesus did not stop with Caesar—He introduced a deeper spiritual truth.What Belongs to God?Jesus followed His statement: "Render unto God what is God’s.” This raises an important question: What belongs to God?To answer this, we must look at Genesis 1:27, which tells us that humanity is made in the image of God (Imago Dei). Just as the denarius bore Caesar’s image and belonged to him, we bear God’s image—meaning our entire lives belong to Him.This truth calls us to complete surrender. While we owe taxes, respect, and obedience to earthly authorities, our ultimate allegiance is to God. He doesn’t just claim a portion of our income—He claims our hearts, minds, souls, and strength.Many people compartmentalize their lives, separating the "secular" from the "sacred." Work, finances, and citizenship belong to the earthly realm, while prayer, worship, and church belong to God. But Jesus’ teaching destroys this false divide.If everything belongs to God, then every aspect of our lives—including our work, relationships, finances, and civic responsibilities—should be offered to Him as an act of worship.By pointing to the coin’s image, Jesus subtly challenges us:Whose image do we bear? To whom do we belong? Where does our primary allegiance lie?This is not just a lesson about paying taxes—it’s about our identity and purpose in God’s kingdom.Jesus' words also highlight the temporary nature of earthly governments compared to God's eternal reign. Rome’s empire, like every human government, would eventually fall. But God’s kingdom is everlasting.This is why Scripture reminds us:"Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ." - Philippians 3:20"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth...but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven." - Matthew 6:19-20While we must live responsibly within earthly systems, we do so with the understanding that our true home is in God’s unshakable kingdom.Faithful Stewards in Both Realms"Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s" is a call to faithful stewardship both in earthly and heavenly matters. As followers of Christ, we are called to:Honor our civic responsibilities (pay taxes, obey laws, engage in society). Live with eternity in mind (prioritizing God's kingdom above all else). Offer our whole lives to God (because we bear His image and belong to Him).As 1 Peter 2:9 reminds us, we are "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession." This identity should shape every decision we make, including how we manage our finances, serve others, and navigate our role in the world.Ultimately, Jesus' response was not just a clever answer to a political trap but a profound statement of divine truth.While we live in this world, we are not of it (John 17:16). Our ultimate purpose is not to accumulate wealth, power, or influence in earthly systems but to live in a way that reflects God's glory.So, as you navigate financial decisions, work responsibilities, and civic duties, ask yourself:Am I honoring God with everything I have? Am I living as a fai

The real estate market may be in its winter slump, but spring is just around the corner—only five weeks away!Higher interest rates have kept many home buyers and sellers off the sidelines in recent years. But could a change be on the horizon? Today, mortgage expert Dale Vermillion joins us with a market forecast and some practical advice on how to move forward.Dale Vermillion is the author of Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home. This book covers everything you need to know about securing a mortgage—all from a biblical perspective.Is the Housing Market About to Shift?For the past few years, many homeowners have stayed put due to high interest rates, a phenomenon known as the lock-in effect. However, recent data suggests a shift might be on the horizon.Existing home sales rose by 6.1% in November 2024, signaling a potential increase in market activity. While December and January are traditionally slow, spring is expected to bring renewed momentum as buyers become more eager to move. Consumer confidence is growing, and as patience wears thin, many are deciding to buy now and refinance later.Should Buyers Accept Current Interest Rates?Many potential buyers have been waiting for rates to drop before making a move. But sometimes, waiting is no longer an option. Life goes on, and people need to relocate for jobs, family, or other personal reasons.That said, budgeting wisely is key. Before purchasing a home, we recommend:Assessing what you can truly afford Creating a solid budget to plan for mortgage payments Considering the long-term potential to refinance in a few yearsWhile mortgage rates remain higher than the record lows of a few years ago, waiting indefinitely for the “perfect” rate may mean missing out on opportunities.What to Expect From Interest Rates in 2025Many homebuyers have been banking on rate cuts to ease affordability, but will they actually happen?Only one or two rate cuts are expected in 2025, and even those are not guaranteed. The biggest factor influencing mortgage rates is inflation, which is tied to federal deficit control. Unlike previous periods of low mortgage rates, the government is unlikely to buy trillions in mortgage-backed securities to artificially lower rates.Bottom line: Mortgage rates are likely to stay between 6% and 7% for most of 2025, with a slight possibility of dipping into the high 5% range.Navigating the 2025 Housing MarketWhether you’re looking to buy or sell, market conditions are changing, and understanding them is crucial.For Sellers:Home values are flattening or declining in some areas. In Q3 of 2024, annual real estate appreciation dropped to 2.5% (an average of $5,700 per home), starkly contrasting with Q2’s 8% growth ($25,000 per home). If you’re considering selling, now may be the best time to maximize your home’s value before the market shifts further.For Buyers:Affordability should be your top priority. Home price appreciation may slow down in 2025, making it a good time to enter the market without facing rapid price hikes. While interest rates remain elevated, they will eventually decline, giving buyers a future opportunity to refinance. Homeownership still offers significant tax benefits, making it a worthwhile long-term investment.Mortgage Trends: What’s Changed?If it’s been a while since you’ve looked into getting a mortgage, you may be surprised by the range of options now available.New mortgage products cater to diverse financial situations. Credit challenges? There are more flexible loan options than before. Need down payment assistance? Programs exist to help qualified buyers.The housing market is shifting, and while interest rates may not drop dramatically, buyers and sellers alike have opportunities in 2025. For those needing to move, careful planning and budgeting will be essential. And for sellers, this could be a good time to capitalize on home values before potential declines.No matter your situation, making an informed, strategic decision is key, and consulting professionals can confidently help you navigate the mortgage landscape.For more expert insights on financing your home, check out The Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home by Dale Vermillion.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 37, with a family of five. I've been building a home on the property I bought three years ago, using cash so far. I have the funds for the roof this year, but I need to take out a loan or wait three more years to pay cash for the rest. Should I take out a loan to finish it sooner or wait and pay cash?I'm 56 and about to take early retirement with a $1,400 monthly pension. Then, I'll return to work in the private sector, making more. I have a 6% mortgage and a 7% HELOC. Should I invest or use the pension money to pay down my debts?I'm 76 years old and just finished a messy divorce. I have about $200,000 to invest, but I don't have a house, car payments, or significant debt. What should I do wi

One book of the Bible reminds us that life is short and we should make the most of every moment.If you guessed Ecclesiastes, you’re right. This book emphasizes that our time here is fleeting, but what lies beyond is eternal. In this post, we’ll explore this profound truth and introduce a new FaithFi study on the book of Ecclesiastes—Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money.The Shortness of LifeImagine standing on the summit of Mount Everest, over 29,000 feet above sea level. At that moment, you are higher than every other person on the planet. But as breathtaking as the view may be, you can’t stay there long.At 26,000 feet, climbers enter the “death zone,” where oxygen is too thin to sustain human life. Even the most well-trained mountaineers must rely on oxygen tanks just to survive the final push to the peak. And when they reach the top, they have just five minutes—300 precious seconds—before they must begin their descent or risk never making it back.How do you think a climber should spend those five minutes? Complaining about an aching ankle? Wishing they hadn’t endured the brutal climb? Or should they take in the view, praise God for the beauty of creation, and appreciate the rare opportunity they’ve been given?Five Minutes On The SummitEcclesiastes teaches us that life is like having five minutes on the summit.We’re here for a short time. Many have come before us, and many will come after. Some moments in life are filled with sunshine and calm, while others bring fierce storms. But regardless of our circumstances, we have one brief chance to live and no do-overs.The book of Ecclesiastes repeatedly urges us to embrace this reality. Solomon, the author, reminds us that all earthly pursuits—wealth, pleasure, status—are ultimately fleeting. But rather than making us despair, this truth should inspire us to live with gratitude and purpose.Facing the Reality of Death to Find Joy in LifeEcclesiastes does not shy away from the topic of death. In fact, it is mentioned in 11 out of its 12 chapters. Solomon writes:"Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, ‘I have no pleasure in them’… before the silver cord is snapped, or the golden bowl is broken, or the pitcher is shattered at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern, and the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it. Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher; all is vanity.” (Ecclesiastes 12:1, 6-8)Why does Solomon want us to think about death? Not to depress us—but to help us truly live. When we remember that our time is short, we learn to treasure each moment. If I know I have to leave the summit soon, I’ll savor every second. If I know death is coming, I’ll be thankful to be alive.The closing chapters of Ecclesiastes paint a vivid picture of aging and decline. Our eyesight dims, our strength fades, and our bodies slow down. But instead of fearing this reality, we’re encouraged to embrace it—to use the time we have wisely and to find joy in the life God has given us.Live With Eternity In MindOur new FaithFi study, Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money, explores how these lessons apply to financial decisions. Solomon warns us that wealth, like life itself, is temporary. Money cannot ultimately satisfy, and hoarding riches without purpose is meaningless.Instead, Ecclesiastes teaches us to steward our finances with eternity in mind. That means:Trusting God over material wealthUsing money to bless othersEnjoying the good gifts God provides without making them our ultimate pursuitAs Moses wrote in Psalm 90:12: “So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.”You are standing on the summit of life. You have five minutes.How will you spend them?Will you focus on fleeting troubles, or will you fix your eyes on the One who holds eternity in His hands?Ecclesiastes calls us to live with purpose—to love God, love others, and make the most of every moment. When the expedition leader, God, taps us on the shoulder and says, “It’s time to go,” may we be found faithful.We've only begun to explore the depth of this powerful new study, Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money, coming next month. Once it's available, you can find it at FaithFi.com/Shop.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 73 and self-employed. Five years ago, I left my house for my daughter, who had thyroid cancer. The house could rent for $3,000/month, but I'm not getting any of that. Is there a way I can get a tax deduction or deferment for this situation?My credit score has gradually decreased from around 780 to 720, even though I always pay my bills on time. I'm unsure why this is happening since I have a mortgage, and my housing payments are half my income. What could be causing my credit score to go down?I'm 58 on disability and only get $1,300 a month. If something happened to my husband, I

“The purpose in a man's heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out.” - Proverbs 20:5Man’s ultimate purpose is to glorify God, but deciding how to do that can be challenging. Sometimes, we need help from a trusted advisor. I’ll discuss that today with Rachel McDonough. Rachel McDonough is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and a regular Faith & Finance contributor.The Cultural Challenge: Are We Asking the Right Financial Questions?Money is more than just a tool—it’s a reflection of our values, priorities, and ultimately, our faith. But how do we ensure that our financial decisions align with God’s purpose for our lives?As believers, we all want to honor God with the resources He has entrusted to us. However, navigating financial decisions can be overwhelming—especially when culture pushes us in the opposite direction.Traditional financial planning often starts with one simple question: “What are your financial goals?”At first glance, that sounds logical. But the problem? It starts with us—our dreams, our desires—rather than seeking God’s plan first.Many people feel pressure to already have their financial goals figured out. If they don’t, they may experience anxiety, uncertainty, or even guilt. Instead of feeling liberated, they feel like they’re failing.So, how do we shift from “What do I want?” to “What does God want for me?”The Heart of Financial Planning: Start with Your ValuesTake a step back before setting financial goals. Instead of ready, aim, fire—we should first seek to understand:Our values – What matters most in this season of life? Our priorities – How should we allocate resources to reflect these values? God’s purpose – What is He calling us to pursue financially?As Paul David Tripp once said:“The thing that is your treasure will control your heart, and what controls your heart will control your words, your behaviors, your choices, and your decisions.”If we start with financial goals before examining our hearts, we risk aiming at the wrong target.A Real-Life Example: Aligning Values with Financial DecisionsRachel shared a story about a couple who initially sought financial advice because they wanted to:Build a cabin on a parcel of land they owned. Renovate part of their house to improve their living space.Sounds reasonable, right? But as they went through a values discovery exercise, something surprising happened.The wife valued respect and security, yet she was deeply stressed in her job, to the point of tears during their financial planning session. The husband valued loyalty and family, which made watching his wife suffer painful for him.After reflecting on their true priorities, they realized now was not the right season for a cabin. Instead, they needed a financial plan that allowed the wife to:Move into a less stressful job (even if it meant earning less) Find financial stability while navigating a large inheritance Postpone the cabin to a future season once their immediate needs were metThe outcome? A plan that prioritized peace, purpose, and financial security—without regret.The Role of a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®)Many financial advisors focus solely on wealth accumulation and goal-setting. But a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®) brings a biblical perspective, asking questions like:“What do you think God is calling you to pursue in this season?” “Do you need more income or more impact?” “What does surrender look like in your financial life?”This kind of financial planning frees people from guilt and regret. Instead of chasing worldly success, they begin pursuing God’s best for their lives.Aligning values with financial goals isn’t just a nice idea—it requires practical steps. In the case of Rachel’s story from earlier, their financial strategy included:The wife transitioning to a lower-stress, lower-income job. The husband re-entering the workforce to ease financial pressure. Using their inheritance wisely to cover healthcare costs before Medicare kicks in. Delaying the cabin goal until it was a better fit for their priorities.Their financial decisions became intentional—not just reactionary.The Fruit of Biblical Financial PlanningWhen people approach financial decisions with a heart of surrender, the results are transformational. The fruit we see in people who adopt this mindset is:Freedom from regret Peace and joy in their financial journey Stronger relationships as they align finances with God’s planYou're not alone if you’ve ever felt uncertain about your financial goals. Instead of feeling pressured to have it all figured out, take a step back and ask:What are my core values? What is God’s purpose for my finances? Am I making financial decisions out of trust or fear?And most importantly:How can my money reflect what’s most important to me as a Christ-follower?If you’re looking for a biblical approach to financial planning, consider working with a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®)—a professional trained to help yo

The holidays are behind us; you know what that means—it’s tax season! But before you start gathering your W-2s and receipts, there’s an important question: Do you know who will prepare your taxes this year?With a nationwide shortage of Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and tax professionals, waiting too long to find a preparer could leave you scrambling—and vulnerable to scams. Here’s how to protect yourself and find a trusted tax preparer.Who Can Prepare Your Taxes?When hiring a tax professional, your preparer will likely fall into one of three categories:Certified Public Accountant (CPA): These professionals undergo rigorous education, exams, and licensing requirements. Many specialize in tax preparation and can also provide broader financial guidance. Enrolled Agent (EA): Licensed by the IRS, EAs are tax experts who can prepare and file returns, represent clients before the IRS, and provide tax planning services. Tax Attorney: These legal professionals specialize in tax law and are particularly useful for complex tax situations, audits, or disputes.Each of these professionals is highly qualified—but the problem is there aren’t enough of them.There is a growing shortage of CPAs and tax professionals, mainly because fewer young people are entering the field. Some firms are even hiring high school interns at $22 an hour to recruit future CPAs.What does this mean for you?Longer wait times to book a tax preparerHigher fees due to increased demandGreater risk of falling into the hands of fraudulent preparersWhen people are desperate to file their returns, they can become easy targets for scammers who fake credentials or engage in tax fraud.How to Avoid Tax Scams and Find a Qualified PreparerTo protect yourself, follow these IRS-recommended steps when choosing a tax preparer:1. Choose a Year-Round Tax PreparerA reputable preparer should be available beyond tax season. You don’t want your tax preparer to disappear if you get audited.2. Verify Their IRS CredentialsAsk for the IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). All paid tax return preparers must register with the IRS and enter their PTIN on every return they file.Check their status using the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers at IRS.gov.3. Look for Professional CredentialsAsk if the preparer holds a credential such as:CPA (Check with the State Board of Accountancy)Enrolled Agent (Verify at IRS.gov under "Verify Enrolled Agent Status")Tax Attorney (Confirm with their State Bar Association)Additionally, inquire about continuing education—since tax laws change frequently, professionals should stay current.4. Be Cautious About FeesBeware of tax preparers who:Charge fees based on a percentage of your refundClaim they can get you a larger refund than competitorsA legitimate preparer should charge a flat or hourly rate based on the complexity of your return.5. Verify IRS E-File CapabilityMost tax preparers handling more than 10 clients must file electronically. If your preparer refuses to e-file, that’s a red flag.6. Ensure Proper DocumentationA trustworthy tax preparer will ask for the following:Your W-2 and 1099 forms (not just a pay stub)Records of deductions and creditsIf a preparer doesn’t ask for supporting documents, walk away. The IRS requires proper documentation to verify your return.7. Understand Representation RulesOnly CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and tax attorneys can represent you before the IRS if you're audited.Non-credentialed tax preparers—including your math-savvy cousin Bill—cannot represent you in an audit.8. Never Sign a Blank or Incomplete Tax ReturnPlease review your return carefully before signing. Ensure all information is accurate, and ask questions if anything appears incorrect.9. Your Refund Should Go to You—Not the PreparerCheck the routing and account number on your tax return to ensure your refund is deposited into your own account, not your preparer’s.Looking for a Faith-Based Financial Professional?If you want to work with a tax professional who aligns with biblical financial principles, consider finding a CPA, Enrolled Agent, or tax attorney with the Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®) designation.To find a trusted, faith-based financial professional, visit FaithFi.com and click “Find a Professional.”With tax season here, choosing a reputable, qualified tax preparer is more important than ever. Don’t wait until the last minute—start your search today to avoid scams and ensure your taxes are filed accurately and ethically.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:As I turn 70 and a half, is it advantageous for me to start doing my charitable giving from my IRA? Or should I wait until 73, when I have to do the required minimal distribution (RMD)?I have $10,000 in a savings account with my local bank, but I only earn about 10 cents in monthly interest. Since I've never invested before, I'm interested in investing that money elsewhere to create some extra available money. What would you suggest?I ran a landscaping

“Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor.” - Proverbs 22:9Do you have a generous heart—one that seeks out opportunities to bless others, especially those in need? Today, Kelly Miller joins us to share a powerful way you can not only support the poor around the world but also help bring lasting transformation to their lives.Kelly Miller is the CEO and President of Cross International, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. The Global Crisis: Hunger, Clean Water, and PovertyPoverty remains a critical issue around the world, affecting millions of families who struggle to access basic necessities like food, clean water, and education.The numbers are staggering:Over 800 million people go hungry every day.More than 50% of child deaths are linked to hunger-related issues.Nearly 700 million people lack access to safe and clean water.Cross International is a faith-based humanitarian organization dedicated to transforming the lives of impoverished individuals and families worldwide. It is on the front lines, working in over a dozen low-income countries to meet these urgent needs while also addressing the deeper spiritual transformation that brings lasting hope.The Mission of Cross InternationalFounded in 2001, Cross International partners with local Christian ministries to provide essential resources to struggling communities. Their mission is to provide food, water, and shelter and transform lives through the love of Christ.The organization primarily serves Latin America and regions of Eastern and Southern Africa, where the need is particularly dire. Through local partnerships, they empower communities by offering:Nutritious meals for childrenClean drinking waterEducational opportunitiesDiscipleship and spiritual developmentBeyond Humanitarian Aid: Transforming Lives Through ChristCross International goes beyond simply meeting physical needs—they focus on long-term transformation. One example of this is their Thriving Kids Initiative, which ensures children not only receive food and education but also grow in faith and purpose.Take Kenny, a young man from rural Malawi. He grew up in extreme poverty, with little access to food or education. Through Cross International’s partnership with local ministries, Kenny was able to attend school and receive his only meal of the day—a nutritious meal provided through the program.Over the years, Kenny has thrived academically, and today, he is a university student in Malawi. He dreams of returning to his village, starting a business, and helping lift others out of poverty. His story is just one of many transformed lives through the work of Cross International.How You Can Help: Become a Thriving Kids AmbassadorThe impact of your generosity can be life-changing. For just $62, you can provide:Life-saving food and waterEducational opportunitiesSpiritual nourishment through the GospelYour gift can make an eternal difference in a child's life. Consider becoming a Thriving Kids Ambassador by giving today.Every gift of $62 helps a child not only survive but thrive through the love of Christ. To join this mission, visit crossinternational.org/faith. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My problem isn't necessarily with the credit cards. This year, I have financed three reasonably large items, including a used RV that I financed for $17,000 at 10.99% interest over 15 years. If I wait to pay it off for the entire 15 years of the loan, the total cost will triple or even more. How can I pay off this RV more quickly with the resources I have left?I'm in a tough financial spot with debt and no money, and I'm not sure if I should file for bankruptcy or keep trying to pay it off. I want to honor God with my finances, but I'm really struggling.I'm interested in the advantages and disadvantages of creating a trust with money we have after the passing of a loved one, as opposed to investing the money in mutual funds. Since I'm unsure of our intentions for the money, I'm trying to determine whether a trust is the better option or whether I should invest it in mutual funds.I have a $400,000 rental property with $60,000 left on my home mortgage. The rental brings in $1,800 per month. Should I sell the property, use the proceeds to pay off my debts, and invest the remaining $340,000, or should I continue renting the property until I'm 65?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationCross InternationalLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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 stewa

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” - 3 John 1:4In that verse, the Apostle John praises his friend Gaius and other believers for their generosity toward missionaries. As parents, we want our children to be generous toward God’s Kingdom. Dr. Art Rainer joins us today with some steps we can take to grow our kids in generosity.Dr. Art Rainer is the founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is also the author of The Money Challenge: 30 Days of Discovering God's Design for You and Your Money and the Secret Slide Money Club, a book series designed to teach young readers about God’s way of being wise with money. Why Teaching Generosity MattersParenting is a high calling. Everything we say and do influences our children’s lives, shaping their worldview and their relationship with God. Generosity is part of God’s plan for His people, so we must intentionally guide our kids away from selfishness and toward selflessness.But how do we teach children to be generous when human nature tends to favor holding on rather than giving away? It starts with a few key principles.1. Model GratefulnessBefore kids can learn to give, they must first recognize the blessings they’ve received. A heart of gratitude fosters a heart of generosity.Regularly express thankfulness for the resources God has given your family. Teach your children that everything belongs to God—we are simply stewards of His gifts. Share stories of how generosity has impacted your own life and how giving frees us from the grip of money.Gratefulness leads to an open-handed posture toward money and possessions.2. Talk About GenerosityChildren won’t naturally connect giving to their faith unless we explain it to them. Conversations about generosity help shape their understanding of why we give.Explain that we give because God first gave to us (John 3:16). Share personal testimonies of times when generosity blessed others—or when you were blessed by someone else’s generosity. Connect giving to the gospel: Just as God gave us His Son, we reflect His love when we give to others.3. Model Generosity in Everyday LifeKids have a strong radar for hypocrisy. If we talk about generosity but don’t practice it, they’ll notice. That’s why we must demonstrate generosity in tangible ways.Let them see you giving—to your church, to charities, or to people in need. Discuss the needs of others. Ask them, “Have you ever needed help? How did it feel when someone helped you?” Involve them in acts of giving, such as donating food, helping a neighbor, or supporting a ministry.When children witness generosity in action, they begin to understand its value.4. Let Them Earn and GiveFor kids to truly grasp generosity, they need to experience both the sacrifice and joy of giving. One way to do this is by allowing them to earn their own money.Provide opportunities for them to do small jobs or earn an allowance. Encourage them to set aside a portion for giving, just as they do for saving and spending. Let them choose where to give—whether it’s to the church, a missionary, or a local charity.Handling their own money makes giving more meaningful and personal.5. Prioritize Giving to the Local ChurchOne of the best ways to instill a habit of generosity is by encouraging children to give to their church.Introduce them to pastors and missionaries so they can see how their giving impacts the Kingdom. Show them how to give—let them physically place money in the offering plate rather than only giving online. Reinforce that their giving contributes to something much bigger than themselves.6. Encourage Giving with Joy, Not GuiltGiving should be joyful, not forced. Pressuring kids to give out of obligation can lead to resentment rather than a cheerful heart. Instead, celebrate their generosity and show them the blessings that come from giving freely.As 2 Corinthians 9:7 reminds us, “God loves a cheerful giver.”Raising generous children requires intentionality. By modeling gratefulness, discussing generosity, and providing opportunities for them to give, we can help shape their hearts to reflect God’s generosity.Want to dive deeper into this topic? You can read more in Faithful Steward, FaithFi’s brand-new quarterly publication that equips families to align their faith and finances for God’s glory.To start receiving Faithful Steward every quarter, become a FaithFi Partner by giving $35 or more per month or $400 annually. Visit FaithFi.com/give to partner with us and receive this inspiring publication delivered right to your mailbox.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a 401(k) with about $128,000 in it, and I'd like to invest $60,000 into an annuity. The person I talked to said I would get an 8,600-dollar bonus immediately if I invested the $60,000. He also said I could take out 20% of the annuity after two years. What do you think about this annuity option?I am 51 years old. I retire at the end of ne

You want to give generously to your church, but your non-believing spouse objects. What do you do?We occasionally get that question, and it’s a situation that must be handled with care. If you or someone you know is in that position, don’t miss today’s program, as Ron Blue is here with some sage advice.Ron Blue is the co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, most notably “Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment.”Biblical Principles for Giving in MarriageThere are two key biblical principles to consider when navigating giving disagreements in marriage:Marriage is more important than money. While generosity is an important biblical value, unity in marriage takes precedence. Submission and honor in marriage matter. Ephesians 5:21 reminds us to “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ,” emphasizing mutual respect in financial decisions. Likewise, Matthew 19:6 affirms that a husband and wife “are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”Ultimately, financial decisions—including giving—should be made together, with mutual understanding and agreement.Ron’s Personal Story: When His Wife Wanted to TitheRon has firsthand experience with this issue. When his wife, Judy, became a Christian, she wanted to tithe. But at the time, Ron was not a believer and giving was the last thing on his mind.Instead of forcing the issue, Judy decided to remain silent about it for two years. However, she lived a transformed life, which was compelling to Ron. Her quiet witness ultimately softened his heart and led him to faith in Christ.This aligns with the biblical wisdom of 1 Peter 3:1-2, which encourages wives to live in such a way that they may win their husbands to Christ “without a word, by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct.”Judy’s patient, godly approach allowed Ron to come to faith in his own time, and ultimately, they found joy in giving together.Building Unity in Giving as a CoupleOnce Ron became a Christian, he and Judy intentionally set aside time to align their financial goals—including giving. Twice a year, they would take a weekend away to pray, discuss their finances, and determine their giving goals.Ron’s perspective on giving is clear:The tithe is a starting point. Giving should go beyond the tithe, as generosity is a way to break the grip of money on our hearts. Giving should be joyful and unified. When spouses give together in agreement, it becomes a source of great joy.As Ron says, “The only way you can break the power of money is to give.”Practical Steps for Couples Navigating Giving DisagreementsIf you and your spouse are struggling to agree on giving, consider these steps:Prioritize your marriage. Remember, God values unity in your relationship more than any specific financial contribution. Listen openly. Take time to truly hear your spouse’s concerns and seek to understand their perspective. Share why giving is important to you. Explain what generosity means to you personally and spiritually. Find a giving framework you both can support. This might mean starting small, gradually increasing giving over time, or designating funds for causes you both agree on.At the end of the day, God doesn’t need our money—He wants our hearts. And He wants our marriages to reflect His love and unity. If you and your spouse are wrestling with this issue, focus first on fostering understanding and alignment. When you give together with a joyful heart, the blessing is even greater.If you’d like to read more on this topic, Ron Blue’s full article on this subject is featured in our new quarterly publication, Faithful Steward. To receive it in your mailbox every quarter, become a FaithFi Partner at $35 a month or $400 annually at FaithFi.com/give.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband's business distributing for a bread company has fallen apart. He was forced to resign, and they slandered his name. We only have $300 left and had a small business loan. What should we do?I received a letter in the mail stating that my student loans were put on some kind of permanent disability that I had never applied for. The letter mentioned being affiliated with a teacher, but I'm not a teacher. I don't know if this is a scam or if it's legitimate. What should I do?I'm calling to learn how to help my 20-year-old granddaughter start building credit. She needs to get a credit card and establish a credit history to buy a car in the fall. She works full-time but doesn't have any credit history yet. What's the best way for her to start building credit?I'm 55 years old and plan to retire in about 10 years. I recently filed an insurance claim for roof damage from a hurricane, but the claim was denied. Should I use the money in a money market account to replace the roof, or should I get an equity loan from the bank to pay for it?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Ste

Many of us are quick to offer help to others but struggle when it comes to asking for help ourselves. Why is that? As Christians, we are known for our generosity and willingness to assist those in need. However, when it’s our turn to seek help, we often hesitate. Let’s explore why that is—and why asking for help is not only okay but also glorifies God.The Reluctance to Ask for HelpChurches frequently establish benevolence funds to support members going through financial hardships. Most of us gladly contribute to these funds, eager to help those in need. But when the tables turn, and we are the ones facing difficulties, we often resist seeking assistance.One common reason is that we don't want to burden others. Many of us would rather go without—sometimes even at the expense of our families—than impose on someone else. However, the Bible challenges this mindset. Galatians 6:2 reminds us to “Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” God's design for us is not self-sufficiency but a supportive Christian community where burdens are shared.Another reason we shy away from asking for help is the fear of appearing weak or vulnerable. We convince ourselves that no one can or wants to help us. Yet, this reluctance can sometimes stem from pride. Proverbs 11:2 warns, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.”Asking for help—especially financial help—requires humility. It can be difficult to admit mistakes or acknowledge needs, but it’s an opportunity for growth. Whether our difficulties arise from poor decisions or unforeseen circumstances, God can use them to shape our character and deepen our dependence on Him.Biblical Examples of Receiving HelpEven the Apostle Paul, a pillar of faith, received financial support for his ministry. In Philippians 4:19, he expresses gratitude, saying, “And this same God who takes care of me will supply all of your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.”Furthermore, Jesus Himself accepted help from others. Luke 8:1-3 tells us that Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna provided financial support for His ministry. If the Son of God was willing to receive help, shouldn't we be willing to do the same?If you find yourself in need, start by sharing your situation with your church community. Even if no one within the church can help directly, they might know someone who can. The Body of Christ is a vast network of believers who are ready and willing to offer support in various ways.Seeking help not only benefits you but also provides others with an opportunity to fulfill their calling to generosity. When we withhold our needs, we deny them the blessing of giving.Asking for Help Glorifies GodThe ultimate reason to ask for help? It glorifies God. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul writes, “For when I am weak, then I am strong.” Acknowledging our weakness allows God’s strength to shine through and reminds us of our dependence on Him.When you pray and ask God for help, He often answers through people and opportunities, not supernatural interventions. 1 John 5:14 assures us that “if we ask anything according to his will, He hears us.”By seeking help, we acknowledge our reliance on God, invite others to be part of His provision, and foster a deeper sense of community and mutual support.If you're facing financial difficulties, don't hesitate to ask for help. Whether it's from your church, a trusted friend, or even a financial advisor, remember that seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it's an act of faith and humility. If you’d like to meet with a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or a Certified Christian Financial Counselor, you can visit FaithFi.com and click “Find A Professional”. Take that step today. In doing so, you allow others to serve, grow in generosity, and bring glory to God through their kindness and your humility.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm a bi-vocational pastor with a substantial six-figure income, but I've gotten myself into a situation where I can't give as much as I want to. I see some financial relief coming soon, but I feel stuck and almost hypocritical about it. How can I get my finances in order so I can be the generous giver I want to be?I inherited an IRA from my dad in 2017. Can I keep this inherited IRA, or do I have to do something with it? I've been taking the required minimum distributions (RMDs) each year, but my tax preparer has never said anything about needing to handle this differently. Can I just continue taking the RMDs as I have been?I'm 73 years old and in good health now, but I'm concerned about the future if I need to go to a nursing home. I know they can take everything I have. How can I protect any assets I have, like my home and the $100,000 I have in cash and securities, from the nursing home taking it all?I'm 59 years old and I have everything paid off, a fully funded emergency fund, and I'm contributing to my 401(k). I have about $200,000 that I'd lik

What financial lessons can we learn from a tax collector who climbed a tree? Stay tuned and find out.Of course, you know I’m talking about Zacchaeus in Luke 19. That story is filled with important teachings about money, stewardship, and generosity. Dr. Kelly Rush joins us today with some interesting observations about the life of Zacchaeus.Dr. Kelly Rush is a Professor of Finance, Department Chair, and Financial Planning Program Coordinator at Mount Vernon Nazarene University in Ohio. The Cultural and Financial Context of ZacchaeusIn first-century Israel, political, social, and religious divides were as prevalent as they are today. Labels like Pharisee, Sadducee, and zealot carried heavy connotations, just as terms like Democrat or Republican do in our culture. Among the most despised figures in Jewish society were the tax collectors, or publicans, who collected tribute for the oppressive Roman Empire.A publican acted as a financial middleman, collecting various taxes such as road tolls, harbor dues, and purchase levies. Chief publicans, like Zacchaeus, oversaw entire regions and often amassed great wealth by overcharging and exploiting their fellow Jews. Essentially, publicans were seen as greedy traitors who profited from an unjust economic system—what we would call white-collar criminals today.Zacchaeus' position as chief publican meant he was not just a participant but a leader in this corrupt system. However, his story took a radical turn when he encountered Jesus.A Life-Changing Encounter with JesusIn Luke 19, Jesus is passing through Jericho, heading to Jerusalem for Passover. Despite being days away from His crucifixion, Jesus takes the time to walk through the town, looking for Zacchaeus.Zacchaeus, unable to see over the crowd because of his short stature, humbles himself by climbing a sycamore tree to catch a glimpse of Jesus. In a moment of divine grace, Jesus stops, looks up, and calls Zacchaeus by name, inviting Himself to his house. This moment showcases a beautiful truth: while Zacchaeus was seeking Jesus, Jesus was already seeking him.The turning point in Zacchaeus' story comes when he joyfully receives Jesus and declares his willingness to make restitution:He pledges to give half of his possessions to the poor. He commits to repaying anyone he has cheated four times the amount—going far beyond the Old Testament requirement of returning stolen goods plus 20% (Leviticus 6).This response highlights a powerful principle: true financial transformation begins with a changed heart. Zacchaeus' generosity wasn't an attempt to earn salvation, but a response to the salvation he had already received.Lessons from Zacchaeus' Financial TestimonyJesus Seeks the Lost, No Matter Their Financial PastZacchaeus' reputation was well known, yet Jesus didn't shy away from him. Instead of condemnation, Jesus offered restoration. No financial mistake is too great for God to redeem. Repentance Leads to ActionZacchaeus' turnaround was immediate and public. He didn't just feel remorse; he acted decisively to make things right. This challenges us to evaluate our own finances and take bold steps toward integrity and generosity. Money Reflects the HeartHow we handle our finances reflects what’s happening inside of us. Zacchaeus' newfound generosity was evidence of his transformed heart. Salvation Precedes StewardshipJesus declared, "Today salvation has come to this house" (Luke 19:9), showing that salvation is a free gift, not a reward for financial generosity. Stewardship is simply our response to God’s grace.Many people struggle with shame over their financial decisions, preferring to keep them hidden from God and others. Zacchaeus, however, openly acknowledged his financial failures and took steps to correct them. His story reminds us that God’s grace covers our past, and He calls us into a new future of faithful stewardship.Zacchaeus' story ends with a bold proclamation: "Look, Lord, here and now I give!" His financial testimony stands as a powerful example of what happens when we allow Jesus to transform not just our hearts, but our wallets as well.Let Zacchaeus' example inspire you to take an honest look at your finances, surrender them to God, and trust Him to guide you in stewardship that honors Him.Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly MagazineYou can read Dr. Kelly Rush’s full article on Zacchaeus in our new quarterly magazine, Faithful Steward. Get your copy delivered to your mailbox every quarter by becoming a FaithFi partner with a monthly gift of $35 or more or an annual contribution of $400 or more. Find out more at FaithFi.com/give.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I need to build up my credit score. I'm trying to figure out the best way to do that. I have about $4,000 in credit card debt, and I just had a car accident where my car is not drivable, so I need to buy a new car. I do have a job. What's the best first thing I should do?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Qu

“Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” - Luke 6:38Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Plain are a reminder that we should look for ways to be generous with all aspects of our finances, including investments. Brian Mumbert is here today to share some helpful ideas.Brian Mumbert is Vice President and Regional Sales Executive at Timothy Plan, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.Dispelling the Myth: Performance vs. ValuesA common misconception in Faith-Based Investing is that investors must compromise financial performance to adhere to their values. Since the inception of Faith-Based Investing in 1994, the industry has made tremendous strides. What started with limited resources and headwinds has now evolved into a robust market with proven fund management, strong fundamentals, and competitive returns. Today, investors can achieve great risk-adjusted returns while staying true to their faith-based principles.Many investors have questions about whether they should tithe off their investment gains. In Luke 12, Jesus instructs us to store treasures in heaven where they cannot decay or be stolen. Additionally, 2 Corinthians 5:1-2 reminds believers that this world is not our home, and we are merely stewards of God’s resources. Unfortunately, statistics show that the average American earning over $150,000 annually gives only 1.7% of their income, with Christians slightly higher at 2.5%. Tithing on investment gains is an opportunity to demonstrate faithfulness and generosity.Timothy Plan's Commitment to TithingTimothy Plan leads by example, tithing off the revenue it receives from mutual funds. The company sees this as an act of obedience and stewardship, using their resources to support causes that align with their mission. From funding crisis pregnancy centers to promoting faith-based media and supporting biblical entrepreneurs in underprivileged areas, Timothy Plan goes beyond just making money for investors—they are actively contributing to kingdom work.When it comes to deciding where to allocate their charitable contributions, Timothy Plan follows a thoughtful approach. They look at “the other side of the screen,” meaning they support organizations that counteract the very issues they stand against. For example, as a pro-life, pro-family investment firm, they support crisis pregnancy centers and organizations like Movie Guide, which advocate for family-friendly entertainment in Hollywood. Their impact extends locally in Orlando, Florida, and globally across the world.Looking Ahead: What's New at Timothy PlanWith new seasons ahead for the country, faith-based investing remains a powerful tool to influence culture and financial stewardship.For those interested in aligning their investments with their values and making an impact through Faith-Based Investing, Timothy Plan offers a variety of investment options. Visit TimothyPlan.com to explore their offerings and learn more about their mission.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:What key things should I focus on when looking for a mortgage company to buy a home? I want to put down at least half the purchase price using proceeds from selling two other properties and get a 15-year mortgage at the lowest rate possible. What should I look for when comparing lenders?I have a small architecture business, and my income has fluctuated significantly over the last 3.5 years. My financial advisor has suggested I put my business on the back burner and get a consistent salary job instead to meet my family's budget and pay down debt. How can I be transparent and respectful when communicating to a potential employer that I want a salaried job but also want to keep my business on the side?Is it better for me to continue putting the maximum $200 per month into my retirement IRA, where my employer matches 50%, or should I put that money towards paying off my debt instead? I'm trying to decide whether to focus on maxing out the retirement contributions to take advantage of the employer match or if I should prioritize debt repayment.I'm 12 months away from turning 59 1/2, so I can take retirement withdrawals without penalty. My wife and I have a Roth IRA, and she's also over 55. Would it make sense for me to make $8,000 withdrawals from my 401(k) to max out both of our Roth IRAs for the next 5 years, even though I plan to keep working for 4-5 more years? I'm trying to figure out if that strategy of funding the Roth IRAs makes sense in my situation.I'm looking for resources to find more mortgage lender options besides the one on Bankrate.com. I checked the website of Movement Mortgage, which has a charitable background, but I didn't see anything for the St. Louis area. What other websites or tools can I use to find quality mortgage lenders and compare rates without them pulling a hard credit check that would affect my credit score?

“The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” - Proverbs 22:3That verse is all about how critical it is to look ahead and spot potential problems so you have more time and resources to fix them before they happen. Harlan Accola joins us today to discuss the dangers of keeping mortgage payments into our retirement years.Harlan Accola is the National Reverse Mortgage Director at Movement Mortgage, which is an underwriter of this program. He is also the author of Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement. The Changing Landscape of Retirement and DebtToday’s retirees face a vastly different financial landscape compared to previous generations. In 2024 alone, 4.2 million people will turn 65, and more than 50% of them are still making mortgage payments—the highest percentage in history. This contrasts sharply with previous generations, where fewer than 5% of retirees carried mortgage debt into retirement.Several factors contribute to this shift:Rising Home Prices: Houses are significantly more expensive than they were decades ago. Longer Mortgage Terms: More retirees are carrying 30-year mortgages well into retirement. Financial Strain: Seniors are balancing mortgage payments with other financial obligations such as healthcare, inflation, and even supporting aging parents or adult children.This financial burden often leads to seniors neglecting their retirement savings, relying on credit cards, and facing increased financial stress.The Hidden Debt Burden Beyond MortgagesIn addition to mortgage payments, credit card debt is at an all-time high among retirees. This generation was the first to widely adopt credit cards, often using them for convenience and rewards. However, unexpected life events—such as health crises, job losses, or the death of a spouse—can quickly turn manageable credit card balances into long-term debt.For retirees struggling with both mortgage and credit card debt, the combination can create a domino effect, draining their financial resources and limiting their options.A Solution: Reverse MortgagesMany seniors with more than 50% home equity have an opportunity to improve their financial situation through a reverse mortgage. This option allows seniors to:Eliminate Mortgage Payments: The biggest monthly expense can be reduced to zero, freeing up cash flow for other essential expenses. Create an Income Stream: If the home is fully or mostly paid off, seniors can tap into their home equity and receive monthly payments, helping them avoid dipping into retirement accounts or relying on credit cards. Preserve Retirement Funds: By utilizing home equity, retirees can avoid withdrawing too much from their investment accounts too early, helping to secure their financial future.The Unique Benefits of Reverse MortgagesUnlike traditional loans, a reverse mortgage is considered non-recourse debt, meaning that seniors will never owe more than the value of their home. This provides a level of financial security, even in the event of a housing market downturn.Reverse mortgages allow seniors to stay in their homes while making payments optional and, in some cases, converting their home equity into a steady source of income—all without financial risk beyond their home's value. By understanding and utilizing the tools available, seniors can achieve greater financial freedom and peace of mind in their retirement years.If you or a loved one are struggling with mortgage payments in retirement, a reverse mortgage with Movement Mortgage may be worth exploring. For more information, visit movement.com/faith to connect with Harlan Accola and explore your options.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband is retiring at 65, and we're considering whether to start his Social Security now and invest it or wait until 67 or 70 to get a higher monthly benefit. I'm looking for guidance on the best approach.I'm on Social Security disability, and my pastor preaches about tithing the first week's pay as first fruits. I'm nervous about this since I'm living on my disability income. What are your thoughts on how I should approach tithing in this situation?I thought I was leasing a car, but it turns out I'm actually purchasing it. I'm 73 and on Social Security with a part-time job. Would leasing or purchasing a car be the better option for me at this stage?I want to share a testimony about Christian Credit Counselors. I heard your recommendation and registered with them. They were able to help me consolidate my high-interest credit card debt, which improved my credit score. Getting started was a bit bumpy, but I came out way ahead compared to paying all that interest.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationMovement MortgageChristian Credit CounselorsLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Adviso

What would you call a marriage where spouses see “eye to eye” about money? Some might call it bliss.It’s true that most couples at least occasionally quarrel about their finances. But could a better understanding of each other’s values help spouses avoid that bickering? Shaunti Feldhahn thinks so, and she joins us today to talk about it.Shaunti Feldhahn is a Harvard graduate, former Wall Street analyst, social researcher, best-selling author, as well as a prominent public speaker. She is the co-author of Thriving in Love and Money: 5 Game-Changing Insights about Your Relationship, Your Money, and Yourself with her husband, Jeff, and has written several books with him revealing impactful truths about relationships at home and in the workplace.A Lesson Learned Over DinnerShaunti and her husband, Jeff, learned this lesson early in their marriage. Living in New York, they often ate out due to their demanding schedules. However, a seemingly small issue—ordering a Diet Coke—would trigger recurring arguments. Jeff, concerned about their financial future and mounting student loan debt, saw the expense as unnecessary, while Shaunti viewed it as a simple enjoyment that enhanced her meal.It wasn't until years later, during their research for their book Thriving in Love & Money, that they realized their conflict stemmed from differing values. Jeff prioritized financial security, while Shaunti valued the experience and enjoyment of a meal. Once they uncovered this, they could better communicate and honor each other's perspectives.The Root of Money Conflicts in MarriageFinancial disagreements often arise because couples fail to recognize and respect each other's values. In Shaunti and Jeff’s national study, they found that:67% of couples in financial conflicts believe their perspective is the logical one.Couples often perceive their spouse’s spending habits as irrational simply because they prioritize different things.For example, one spouse might see value in spending money on a gym membership for networking and health benefits, while the other might believe household essentials from Costco are a better use of resources. The key takeaway? Neither perspective is wrong—both are rooted in deeply held values.The Power of CommunicationThe solution to money conflicts isn’t just budgeting or financial planning; it’s communication. It’s crucial that couples discuss not just what they want to spend money on, but why it matters to them.By having open and honest conversations about financial priorities, couples can:Build mutual understanding and trust.Find compromises that respect both perspectives.Create a financial plan that aligns with their shared goals and values.While couples can work through these issues on their own, it can be very beneficial to seek guidance from financial advisors—especially those with a biblical perspective. Kingdom Advisors, for example, are trained to address not just the numbers, but the relational and spiritual aspects of money management.Advisors can help couples navigate tough conversations, align their financial goals with their values, and ultimately steward their resources in a way that honors God and strengthens their marriage.At the heart of every financial decision in marriage lies an opportunity—to foster unity rather than division. God cares just as much about the marriage as He does about the finances. By understanding and honoring each other’s values, couples can turn money from a source of conflict into an instrument of peace and purpose.Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationTo dive deeper into this topic, read Shaunti Feldhahn’s full article in the first edition of Faithful Steward, FaithFi’s new quarterly publication. Receive your copy delivered to your mailbox every quarter by becoming a FaithFi partner with a monthly gift of $35 or an annual contribution of $400. Learn more at FaithFi.com/give.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 65 years old and have a traditional IRA with a little over $1 million. I'm wondering if I should start converting some of that traditional IRA to a Roth IRA since I'll be required to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) when I turn 73.My husband is not a believer and doesn't believe in tithing; he thinks it's a scam. I tithe 10% and save 10%, but he won't give any of his money to the church. How can I help him understand that giving to the church is not a scam and can be a blessing?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationThriving in Love and Money: 5 Game-Changing Insights about Your Relationship, Your Money, and Yourself by Shaunti and Jeff FeldhahnMaster Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment by Ron Blue with Michael BlueLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Rememb

Proverbs 13:22 tells us, “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children…” But while the Bible emphasizes the importance of leaving an inheritance, it doesn’t provide a step-by-step guide. That’s where careful planning and biblical wisdom come into play. Here are some principles to help you make wise decisions about your estate—particularly when it comes to real estate—and avoid unintended conflicts among your heirs.The Common Approach: Equal DivisionOne of the most common phrases in wills is, “My estate will be divided equally among my children.” This approach seems fair and straightforward, especially when the estate consists entirely of financial assets. However, complications arise when property, such as a home or vacation property, is included.When real estate is left to multiple heirs, they face tough decisions:Joint ownership: Should they retain the property together, splitting the responsibilities and costs?Sell and split proceeds: Should they sell the property and divide the cash?Buy out: Should one or more heirs buy out the others to take full ownership?These decisions can quickly lead to financial and emotional challenges without clear guidance.The Hidden Challenges of Inheriting PropertyLeaving property to multiple heirs often creates unexpected burdens, both financial and emotional.Properties come with ongoing expenses, including:Maintenance costsProperty taxesInsurance premiumsHomeowners association feesWho makes decisions about upkeep? How are expenses divided? And what happens if one heir can’t—or won’t—pay their share? These issues can turn a blessing into a burden.Emotions can also complicate property decisions, especially when tied to childhood memories. Disagreements over minor details—like paint colors or furniture placement—can spiral into larger conflicts. Long-buried resentments may resurface, particularly if one sibling is named executor and perceived as having undue authority.Practical Solutions to Prevent ConflictTo avoid these challenges, consider these strategies:Treat Property Like Any Other AssetMany estate experts recommend stipulating in your will that all property is to be sold, with proceeds divided among heirs. This approach provides clarity and avoids forcing heirs into joint ownership.Allow for FlexibilitySome heirs may wish to “buy out” the others to retain the property. By structuring your will thoughtfully, you can provide this option while ensuring a fair division of the estate.Consider Unique NeedsRon Blue, author of Splitting Heirs, suggests that “if you love your children equally, you will treat them uniquely.” Equal division may not always be the wisest choice. Consider factors like financial need and money management skills when planning your estate.The key to preventing conflict lies in communication. Discuss your estate plans openly with your family so they understand your decisions and the reasoning behind them. This transparency eliminates surprises and fosters unity among your heirs.Seek Professional GuidanceCreating or updating a will is a critical step that requires professional expertise. Work with an estate attorney who shares your Christian worldview to ensure your wishes align with biblical values. Certified Kingdom Advisors are an excellent resource; visit FaithFi.com to find one near you.By planning thoughtfully and communicating clearly, you can leave your children and grandchildren not only a financial inheritance but also a legacy of love and wisdom. Proverbs 13:22 reminds us of the importance of stewardship—not just in what we leave behind but in how we prepare to pass it on.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 77, and my husband is 81. The only thing that we have of any value is property. We live on about an acre and a half, and we're in a trailer. We would like to gift this property to our grandson, who is 26. We would like to know the best way to gift it without him being hit with too much of a financial penalty.I'm trying to figure out how capital gains are calculated when I withdraw money from my 401(k), especially since my company stock has appreciated significantly over the years.My daughter's credit score is 625, and she's committed to repairing it. My credit score is over 800, and I've heard you talk about making someone an authorized user on a credit card to help with their score. How does that work, and how would it affect our credit scores?I'm completely lost when it comes to finances. However, I want to set my family up for financial success, so I would like to know if you could point me to a resource that can help me learn what I need to know about finances.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationChristian Credit CounselorsChristian Healthcare Ministries (CHM)Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment by Ron Blue with Michael BlueSplitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives by Ron Blue wi

Larry Burkett once said, “The one principle that surrounds everything else is that of stewardship; that we are the managers of everything that God has given us.” These words remind us that stewardship is not just about money or tithing—it’s about faithfully managing everything God has entrusted to us.As believers, we’re called to be stewards because God created and owns everything. Our role is to manage His resources wisely for His purposes. But how can we know if we’re fulfilling this calling? To guide our journey of faithfulness, let’s explore the seven marks of a good steward.1. Acknowledging God’s OwnershipGood stewards recognize that everything belongs to God, including their resources, skills, and abilities. They understand they’re temporary managers entrusted with God’s gifts for His purposes.Scripture to Reflect On: “You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth.” (Deuteronomy 8:18)2. Understanding Their MissionGood stewards grasp the significance of their role in God’s plan. They take their responsibilities seriously but approach them with humility, knowing they’re part of something greater than themselves.Scripture to Reflect On: “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” (Proverbs 16:3)3. Faithfulness in ActionFaithfulness is at the heart of stewardship. This includes following God’s financial principles: earning, saving, investing, and, most importantly, giving. Faithful stewards persevere, trusting that God will honor their obedience.Scripture to Reflect On: “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” (Luke 16:10)4. TrustworthinessGood stewards are honest and trustworthy in all they do. Integrity builds a foundation for effective stewardship, honoring God, and earning the trust of others.Scripture to Reflect On: “Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2)5. Diligence in Their WorkStewards are diligent, actively using what God has given them rather than neglecting or mismanaging it. They commit to working as if serving the Lord in all they do.Scripture to Reflect On: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” (Colossians 3:23)6. Prayerful DependenceGood stewards seek God’s guidance through prayer, trusting in His wisdom and provision. Prayer frees them from anxiety and anchors them in God’s peace.Scripture to Reflect On: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)7. Spirit-Led ActionFinally, good stewards act when the Holy Spirit leads, preparing their minds and hearts for action and living in obedience to God’s will.Scripture to Reflect On: “Preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you.” (1 Peter 1:13)Dependence on God’s GraceThese seven characteristics set a high standard, reminding us that stewardship is more about faithfulness than perfection. We can’t meet these marks in our own strength. Instead, we depend on God’s grace and the power of the Holy Spirit to walk in obedience.Let’s commit to being faithful stewards, trusting that God will equip us for the journey. As 1 Corinthians 4:2 reminds us, “Those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” May we glorify God in all we do, managing His gifts with care and purpose.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm getting ready to start receiving payments from my annuity. I want to give from the annuity, but I would like to know if I would get tax benefits from taking that money out of my annuity and paying it directly to a charity.I'm charged a rider charge on monthly withdrawals from an indexed annuity. Is there any way to avoid that? I have seven more years because it's a 10-year annuity.My daughter and son-in-law have $35,000 in debt, primarily for home repairs and a vehicle. They have a 3.5% mortgage but are being advised to do a cash-out refinance, which would take them to 6.5-7% on the full $155,000. Is there anything else they can do besides this refinance?I'm 74 and still working full-time. My 401(k) has about $500,000 in it, plus a company-funded pension. Should I roll that 401(k) over now or wait until I get close to retirement? I'm considering retiring by the end of next year.My mother is 89 and sold her house for about $300,000. At this stage in her life, how should she invest the money? Should she consider putting some of it into an annuity? I'd like her to have easy access to it.I was raised in a wealthy home, so I never learned proper financial principles. Now, I want to learn how to be financially responsible and properly steward God's provision in my family and business. Do you have any suggestions on how I can get started?I am 52 and retired, and my wife is 62 and retired. We're doing well, but more is always better. Could my wife start claiming my Social Security and

Sometimes, you have to travel far to learn about things close to home—like your finances.They say that “travel is broadening”—that it expands your horizons and increases your understanding of how things really work. Sharon Epps experienced that recently on the tram in the Netherlands, and today, she’ll share some financial lessons she learned along the way. Sharon Epps is the President of Kingdom Advisors, FaithFi’s parent organization. Kingdom Advisors serves the broad Christian financial industry by educating and equipping professionals to integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.Faith, Finance, and the TramDuring a recent Christmas visit to The Hague, Sharon enjoyed time with her family and learned valuable lessons riding the Dutch tram system. These lessons beautifully parallel financial wisdom rooted in faith. Let’s explore these five lessons and how they can guide us in making faith-filled financial decisions.1. Plan in AdvanceBefore boarding the tram, you need to purchase a card or use an app like Apple Pay—cash isn’t accepted. If you’re unprepared, you’ll find yourself stuck.Financial Takeaway: Life transitions and financial goals require preparation. Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” Look ahead and make thoughtful plans for the future.2. Make Decisions Based on PrinciplesInterestingly, there are no instructions on using the card readers. Observing others reveals the steps: scan in when boarding and scan out when exiting. It’s a system based on principles rather than explicit instructions.Financial Takeaway: Life doesn’t come with a step-by-step manual for every situation. However, God’s Word is full of enduring principles. Base your financial decisions on these, rather than rigid rules, to stay aligned with His will.3. Avoid Decision-Making TrapsSharon missed her tram stop because she was looking in the wrong direction. She realized too late that the doors she needed were behind her.Financial Takeaway: Evaluate multiple alternatives before making decisions. Avoid getting stuck with the first option that comes to mind, as it might not be the best one. Broaden your perspective to avoid costly mistakes.4. Seek Godly CounselAfter missing her stop, Sharon was unsure what to do next. A kind pair of Dutch women guided her to the next stop and helped her find her way back.Financial Takeaway: Life is full of unexpected turns. Seeking wisdom from God and godly counselors can help you navigate challenges and make wise choices. Proverbs 15:22 teaches, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”5. Know What You HaveAfter several rides, Sharon realized she needed to check the balance on her tram card and top it up.Financial Takeaway: Just as you must track the balance on your card, you need to know the condition of your financial resources. Proverbs 27:23–24 reminds us, “Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever.” Awareness of your financial position is crucial for wise stewardship.Life Moves Fast—Stay PreparedRiding a tram requires quick decision-making—boarding, exiting, and navigating—all while staying prepared for the next leg of the journey. Financial decisions can feel the same way. By applying these five lessons—planning ahead, basing decisions on principles, avoiding traps, seeking counsel, and staying informed—you’ll be better equipped to navigate life’s financial challenges.If we adopt these principles in our financial decision-making, we won’t find ourselves getting off at the wrong stop and scrambling to figure out our way back.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a seven-and-a-half-year-old granddaughter, and I'd like to know how to begin investing in her college education.Can I roll my TSP over to an IRA? I'm getting ready to retire within the next five years, and I was told that if I did, the amount would be fixed and could only go up. However, I could still keep my TSP open and contribute to it. Would that be a wise move?I had a CD for $10,000 that matured, and I told the bank to reinvest it. It ended up being $10,210. Do I have to pay taxes on the $210 profit when I file my income taxes?I have been steadily losing money in the TCW MetWest Total Return Fund, and I would like to switch to a Timothy Fund. I'm 80 years old, so I want to change it to something that would make me a little money and keep the fees low. Who would I talk to if I wanted advice about which Timothy Plan fund to use?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationSavingForCollege.comTimothy PlanLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800)

Major changes are likely coming for the U.S. economy. Will you be ready for them?We have a new president who’s pledged to overhaul the economy. How will that affect investors and the markets? Mark Biller joins us today with a plan for managing “anticipated disruption.”Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. Learning from the Past: Market Trends in ReviewBefore diving into predictions, it’s essential to recognize the value of reviewing recent market trends. Forecasting is often unreliable, so Sound Mind Investing focuses on building robust portfolios that can withstand a variety of market conditions.Key Observations from 2024:Strong Stock Market Performance: 2024 was a banner year for stocks.Struggles in Bonds: Higher long-term interest rates created challenges for bond investors.Rather than predicting, SMI uses trend-following strategies, aligning portfolios with market behavior to enhance resilience against uncertainties.What Could End the Bull Market?Bull markets typically end due to two primary catalysts:Federal Reserve Rate Hikes: With recent rate cuts, a pivot to hikes seems unlikely.Economic Recessions: Despite fears, current conditions—strong GDP growth, low unemployment, and robust balance sheets—make a near-term recession improbable.However, investors should remain prepared for routine market corrections (10-15%), which are typically short-lived and not worth major portfolio adjustments.Trump 2.0: Policy Changes and Market ImpactsPresident Trump’s second term brings both optimism and uncertainty. Business-friendly policies like tax cuts and deregulation are expected to boost growth, but his stance on disrupting global free trade could create volatility.Key Policy Areas to Watch:Immigration and Tariffs: Potential economic implications tied to trade disruptions.Deficit Reduction: Balancing growth-oriented spending with inflationary risks.Energy and Taxes: Initiatives that may shape inflation and economic growth dynamics.Wall Street’s response will likely depend on how aggressively these policies are implemented. While markets thrive on stability, Trump’s approach could introduce significant fluctuations.The National Debt: An Ongoing ChallengeReducing the national debt remains a pressing issue, but Mark is skeptical about achieving a balanced budget in the short term. Growth-driven strategies may help manage deficits, but cutting government spending poses immediate challenges for economic momentum.Staying the Course Amid UncertaintyWith many moving parts, confidently predicting cumulative economic and market outcomes is impossible. However, investors should:Stick to long-term plans.Maintain proper diversification.Continue regular contributions to retirement plans.The focus should remain on steady progress toward financial goals rather than reacting to short-term disruptions.For a deeper dive into these topics and actionable strategies, read Mark’s full article, “Trump 2.0: Using Objective Investing Models to Guide Us Through Anticipated Disruption.” This article offers a clear framework for understanding the potential market impacts of Trump’s second term while encouraging a disciplined investment approach.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband and I are researching long-term care options as we prepare to retire. We've considered long-term care insurance or an annuity with a long-term care rider, but we're having trouble deciding which is best for our situation. Do you have any recommendations?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationTrump 2.0: Using Objective Investing Models to Guide Us Through Anticipated Disruption by Mark Biller (Sound Mind Investing Article)Sound Mind InvestingLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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.

"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty." - Proverbs 21:5That verse is often used to encourage people to avoid “get rich quick” schemes and other risky investments. However, it also conveys a message about budgeting. Dr. Shane Enete joins us today to discuss why budgeting is a form of worship.Dr. Shane Enete is an Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University and the author of the brand new book, “Whole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy.”Why Do People Dislike Budgeting?Many people react negatively to the idea of budgeting. A CNBC article titled "People hate budgeting" spotlighted a financial professional who observed that over 60% of her clients felt as though they were "literally going to suffer" at the mere mention of budgeting. The misconception that budgeting is about reducing spending or losing freedom often drives this aversion. In reality, budgeting is a tool for aligning financial resources with personal and spiritual goals.Look at King David, for example, during his preparation for building the temple in 1 Chronicles 28–29. David’s detailed planning and joyful devotion in allocating resources for God’s temple exemplify budgeting as an act of worship. He saw his financial planning as a way to serve God and inspire others to do the same. This narrative offers a powerful reminder that budgeting can be a means of glorifying God and building His kingdom.Budgeting as IntentionalityA Plan for WorshipBudgeting is not about limiting joy but enhancing it by intentionally aligning financial decisions with God’s purposes. As stewards of God’s resources, we are called to manage money in ways that reflect His generosity and character. Daily Acts of GratitudeTracking expenses can become a form of worship. We develop a heart of gratitude by regularly acknowledging God’s provision—even mundane payments like utility bills or DMV fees. This practice shifts our mindset from entitlement to stewardship, deepening our reliance on God. Aligning with God’s HeartRegularly reviewing and planning financial decisions enables us to grow closer to God’s heart. As stewards, we are responsible for managing resources according to His will. This intentionality creates financial margins that foster generosity, resilience, and a greater impact for His kingdom.Breaking the Power of Money Through GenerosityBudgeting also unlocks the potential for generosity. As Ron Blue has said, “Giving breaks the power money can have over us.” By setting financial priorities, we can intentionally allocate resources to support others and further God’s work. William Wilberforce, a British politician, philanthropist, and movement leader to abolish the slave trade, once said, “By careful management, I should be able to give at least one-quarter of my income to the poor.” This kind of strategic generosity reflects a heart fully surrendered to God.A Transformative View of BudgetingBudgeting, when seen through the lens of worship, shifts from being a dreaded task to a joyful act of devotion. It enables us to live intentionally, reflect God’s character, and manage His resources wisely. By embracing this perspective, we not only honor God but also experience the freedom, joy, and resilience that come from living as faithful stewards.If you’d like to dive deeper into this topic, check out Dr. Shane Enete’s article, Budgeting as Worship, in the quarterly publication Faithful Steward. You can receive this resource by becoming a partner at FaithFi.com/give.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I waited until full retirement age to start collecting Social Security, and I still work full time. My wife is past full retirement age but has not started collecting her Social Security yet. If she collects from my Social Security, will that interfere with my benefits now or in the future?If I retired at 67 and got the full Social Security benefit, our only significant expenses would be our first and second mortgages. Would it be worth withdrawing big chunks from the inheritance money my mother left me and my brother so we could free up and live on $1,200 extra dollars a month?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationWhole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy by Dr. Shane EneteLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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 informat

One of the most common questions people ask is, “How much will I need to retire?” The answer is, “It depends.” It depends on your lifestyle, needs, and one key factor: how much you’re willing and able to cut from your budget. Let’s explore how thoughtful adjustments can help you bridge the retirement income gap and make this season of life meaningful and fulfilling.Understanding Retirement IncomeMost retirees experience a drop in income. While many work-related expenses disappear—like commuting, clothing, and dining out—studies show the average retirement budget is about 60% of pre-retirement income.Experts generally recommend aiming for 75-80% of your working income to cover expenses. For example, if you’re earning $75,000 annually, you’ll need approximately $56,000 in retirement. However, if Social Security and investments only generate 60% of your income, you’ll face a shortfall of $11,250 annually—or $940 per month.To bridge that gap, you can:Work longer to save more.Work part-time in retirement.Cut expenses to close the gap.How to Cut Retirement Expenses1. Downsize Your HomeIf your large family home is mostly empty, consider downsizing. A smaller home reduces:Maintenance costs.Utility bills.Property taxes.Additionally, selling your home can free up cash to convert into an income stream. If you’ve lived in the house for two of the last five years, you can exempt up to $250,000 in capital gains (or $500,000 for married couples).2. Reduce Transportation CostsWithout work commutes, you may not need two vehicles. Selling one:It cuts repair costs, registration fees, and insurance premiums.Generates extra cash for your retirement fund.Consider ride-sharing services for occasional conflicts when you and your spouse need to be in different places at the same time.3. Drop Unnecessary Insurance PoliciesSome insurance becomes unnecessary after retirement:Disability Insurance: This replaces lost income when you can’t work. If you’re retired, you no longer need it.Life Insurance: If your children are financially independent, you can scale back or eliminate coverage, especially since premiums rise with age.4. Eliminate DebtCarrying consumer debt, such as credit card balances, into retirement can significantly drain a reduced income. Instead, use the savings from downsizing, selling a vehicle, or cutting insurance to pay off high-interest debt as quickly as possible.Embrace the Opportunity to GiveRetirement isn’t just about cutting expenses—it’s also about finding purpose. With more free time, consider serving your church or favorite ministry. Retirement offers an incredible opportunity to pour your wisdom and experience into others for God’s glory.Retirement can be one of the most fulfilling seasons of your life. You can find contentment and purpose by thoughtfully managing your expenses and seeking God’s guidance. Remember, Christians don’t retire from something but to something. Ask God how He wants you to use this season for His glory, and trust Him to provide for your needs.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My mother-in-law gifted our house to my wife during estate planning. I know this is not ideal because it sets the cost basis to what they originally paid. Can my wife return the house and have her mom set up a transfer-on-death (TOD) deed instead?I recently sold my house and have the proceeds. I want to be a good steward of this money, but I'm unsure if I should put it in a high-yield savings account, an index universal life insurance product, or something else. What would be the best investment approach for this money?I'm 80 years old, and I've taken the required minimum distributions from my IRA account for about 10 years. I do a qualified charitable distribution each year and give all that to the church. But when I die, my kids are beneficiaries of the IRA, where they have to continue the minimum required distributions. I want to understand how that works for my kids when they inherit the IRA.Should I put my money in the S&P 500 index fund or use the Charles Schwab Intelligent Portfolio for my Roth IRA? Which option is the best investment approach?My husband just recently passed away, and I haven't received the life insurance payout yet. When I do receive it, do I need to pay a tithe on that money?I just finished my divorce, and the judge is letting me keep my $24,000 401(k). I want to use that money to buy a small house because the rent is too high. Are there any fees or penalties for taking a hardship withdrawal from my 401(k) to use for a home purchase?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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 Networ

If you’re wondering what the economy will do in 2025, you don’t want to miss this program.Few major league hitters can bat .300 in a given season. Imagine hitting .700! That’s what Bob Doll does every year: forecasting economic trends. He joins us today with his ten predictions for 2025.Bob Doll is the CEO and CIO of Crossmark Global Investments. He regularly contributes to Faith and Finance and other media outlets like Bloomberg TV, Fox Business, and CNBC. Key Economic Predictions: Fewer Tailwinds, More Tail RisksThe theme of Doll’s predictions signals a shift:Fewer Tailwinds: Slower earnings growth and high valuation levels create less upward momentum.More Tail Risks: A new political administration introduces uncertainty around regulation, tax policies, and trade.Doll shares insights on everything from inflation to sector performance. Let’s dive into his top predictions for the year ahead.1. Slower Economic Growth and Rising UnemploymentDoll predicts economic growth will slow as unemployment rises past 4.5%. While this signals a cooling job market, he emphasizes that a 4.5% unemployment rate is historically low and not cause for alarm.2. Sticky Inflation and Limited Rate CutsInflation is expected to remain stubbornly above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. This will likely limit the Fed’s ability to reduce interest rates, continuing the challenges seen in 2024.3. Treasury Yields and Credit SpreadsTreasury yields are forecasted to trade between 3.75% and 4.75%, with credit spreads widening slightly as the economy slows. While this doesn’t point to a recession, it reflects tighter financial conditions.4. Slower Earnings GrowthDoll anticipates earnings growth will fall short of the optimistic 14% consensus, noting that such high growth is rare without a post-recession recovery.5. Increased VolatilityAfter a period of low volatility, Doll predicts the VIX (Volatility Index) will approach 20, reflecting greater market uncertainty. He advises investors to remain disciplined and avoid emotional reactions to market swings.6. A 10% Market CorrectionDoll foresees a 10% correction in 2025, emphasizing that such corrections are normal and should be viewed as buying opportunities for long-term investors.7. Equal-Weighted Portfolios Outperform Cap-Weighted PortfoliosDoll expects equal-weighted portfolios to outperform cap-weighted ones as the dominance of mega-cap stocks like the “Magnificent Seven” wanes.8. Value Outperforms GrowthAfter years of underperformance, value stocks are projected to outshine growth stocks, driven by cheaper valuations.9. Top Performing SectorsDoll predicts financials, energy, and utilities will outperform sectors like healthcare, technology, and industrials. While technology remains essential, high valuations could temper its returns.10. Tax Cuts and Reduced RegulationWith the Trump tax cuts set to expire in late 2025, Doll anticipates extensions alongside reduced regulations. However, divisive policies like tariffs and deportation may have limited economic impact.11. Budgetary ChallengesEfforts to address government spending will face significant hurdles, with key programs like Social Security, Medicare, and defense spending off the table. Progress will likely fall short of ambitious deficit reduction targets.Preparing for 2025Doll acknowledges that predicting the future is inherently uncertain, but his insights provide valuable context for navigating the year ahead. He advises investors to stay diversified, remain disciplined, and prepare for volatility.As we embrace 2025, let’s remember that while economic trends may fluctuate, wise stewardship and long-term planning remain steadfast principles for financial success.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:When our children were young, my husband and I decided to start tithing despite our tight budget. I was skeptical about how we could afford it, but we began tithing in faith. Surprisingly, our budget never changed—the 10% we tithed didn't impact our weekly spending. It was almost miraculous how the Lord provided for us as we honored him with our finances. To this day, I'm not sure how it worked out, but God was so faithful when we stepped out in obedience.We've saved up cash at home for emergencies but have no significant expenses since we live on Social Security. How much of that cash should I keep at home? And if I don't keep it all at home, what's the best way to keep it somewhat liquid and earn some interest rather than just storing it in a coffee can?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationCrossmark Global InvestmentsBankrateChristian Community Credit Union (CCCU)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is

“Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.” - Proverbs 30:8Every generation has struggled to learn contentment, and ours is certainly no different. But God’s Word provides great instruction on this tough topic. Brian Holtz helps us work through it today.Brian Holtz is the CEO of Compass Financial Ministry and the author of Financial Discipleship for Families: Intentionally Raising Faithful Children.What Is Contentment?In Philippians 4:12, the apostle Paul shares, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.”As Paul describes it, contentment is being satisfied with having enough—neither desiring more nor less. It’s a state of recognizing God’s provision as sufficient for every situation.On the surface, contentment sounds simple: accept and be grateful for what you have. But as with most heart issues, it’s far more complex.At a recent conference, attendees were asked two revealing questions:Do you feel you have enough?Who would like more?Most people raised their hands to both questions. This honest reflection highlights a tension many of us face: knowing we have enough yet wanting more. As Proverbs 30:8 reminds us, “Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.” However, genuinely praying for “only my daily bread” can be a struggle when we long for more security or comfort.How to Learn ContentmentPaul’s contentment didn’t come naturally—it was something he learned. His focus on gratitude provides a practical framework for us:Focus on What You Have, Not What You LackPaul’s secret to contentment lies in appreciating God’s provision in all circumstances. Whether in plenty or need, he trusted in God’s sufficiency. Reframe Your PerspectiveInstead of longing for a better car, job, or house, focus on the blessings you already have. Gratitude shifts your mindset and allows you to recognize the abundance in your life. Embrace the Sweet SpotPaul’s perspective mirrors the balance described in Proverbs 30:8—a place between poverty and riches where we can flourish spiritually. When we focus on enough rather than excess, we experience greater peace and satisfaction.Finding Contentment in a Discontented WorldContentment isn’t something we achieve overnight; it’s a lifelong journey. That’s why Compass Financial Ministry is dedicating its upcoming Your Money Counts conference to this vital topic.The conference, which will take place in Orlando, FL, from February 27 to March 1, will offer an in-depth look at finding contentment in a world plagued by materialism. Attendees will explore Scripture, practical tools, and community support to grow as faithful stewards.Learning contentment is essential for spiritual growth and faithful stewardship. As we embrace gratitude and trust God’s provision, we’ll find the peace Paul describes in Philippians 4.For more information about the Your Money Counts conference, visit CompassFinancialMinistry.org. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to thrive in God’s provision and find true satisfaction in Him.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm looking to buy a new house near my grandkids before I retire in the next couple of years. I have rental property, retirement accounts, and other assets. How can I use these to purchase a new home without taking out a mortgage or depleting my retirement savings too much?I'm 24 and live at home. I'm close to paying off all my student debt, which I'm excited about. I'm starting to think about budgeting, investing, and saving up for things like renting or even buying a home in the future. However, I'm anxious about transitioning to the "real world" and managing my finances. What's your advice for a younger person like me who doesn't have a ton of net worth yet but wants to honor the Lord with my money?A few years ago, I invested in a private biotech company that has since gone public and is listed on the NASDAQ. However, I've lost my login credentials to monitor the investment, even though it's in a custodial account. I've tried to recover my login but haven't been able to do so. What's the best way to regain access to view and manage this investment?I operate a nonprofit organization, and I'm considering trying to get a tax break for it. I was thinking about turning my residence over to the nonprofit. Can I get a tax deduction? What's the best way for me to go about doing that?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationCompass Financial Ministry | Your Money Counts ConferenceOpen Hands FinanceLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Fai

Losing a loved one is a time of profound grief and confusion, and the practical tasks that follow can feel overwhelming. Settling a loved one’s estate requires careful attention and preparation. Let’s walk through six financial steps to take during this challenging time, all underpinned by prayer and reliance on God’s guidance.Begin with PrayerBefore addressing financial matters, take time to pray. Invite God into your decisions and ask for wisdom. James 1:5 reminds us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”Prayer offers clarity and comfort, helping you approach the estate settlement process with confidence and peace, knowing the Holy Spirit is interceding on your behalf (Romans 8:26).Step 1: Obtain the Death CertificateThe death certificate is a critical legal document you’ll need to settle your loved one’s affairs. It’s usually prepared by the medical examiner and provided through the funeral home.You’ll need multiple copies for various purposes, such as notifying financial institutions, filing taxes, and starting probate. If you don’t receive the death certificate within a few weeks, contact the funeral home or your local vital records office.Step 2: Begin the Probate ProcessTake the death certificate and the will to your county probate office to file a petition to begin probate. As the executor, you can then carry out the deceased’s wishes.If there’s no will, the process becomes more complex. You’ll still petition the court to begin probate and may request to be named administrator of the estate. However, the court will decide how the estate is distributed according to state law. For guidance, consider consulting a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA). Visit FaithFi.com and click “Find a Professional” to find a trusted advisor.Step 3: Notify Financial Institutions and AdvisorsInform the deceased’s financial institutions, banks, and financial advisors of their passing. Advisors can help identify assets and ensure they’re handled correctly.Check for accounts with Transfer on Death (TOD) or Payable on Death (POD) instructions. These accounts can often bypass probate, simplifying the process.Additionally, notify the three credit reporting agencies—Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian. Provide the death certificate to close accounts and check for fraudulent activity.Step 4: Address Insurance PoliciesContact the deceased’s life insurance company to begin the claims process and provide the death certificate and policy details.Also, cancel other unnecessary insurance policies, such as auto or disability insurance, to avoid ongoing payments for no longer required services.Step 5: Notify Government AgenciesEnsure the appropriate government agencies are informed of your loved one’s passing. The funeral director often notifies Social Security but confirm that this has been done.Notify Medicare and, if applicable, the VA or other government programs. This step helps avoid complications and ensures benefits are properly adjusted.Step 6: File Final TaxesThe final step is filing the deceased’s taxes, including any outstanding returns. This is often best handled by a professional, such as a CPA, to ensure compliance and accuracy.While these tasks may seem overwhelming, prayer and preparation can guide you through. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Lean on God’s wisdom and the support of trusted professionals to navigate this season with grace and confidence.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My able-bodied older sister has been relying on our family for financial support for the past 8 years, even though the work she chooses doesn't provide enough income. Should we continue supporting her, or is that not helping her in the long run?My wife and I will inherit an IRA from my mother-in-law. The IRA and a brokerage account contain over $300,000 in cash. However, the money market account yield has dropped from 5.3% to 4.5%. Where should we invest this cash with the stock market looking richly valued?I'm 70 and retired, and I need to get a new car. I currently owe $27,000 on my home. Should I pay off the remaining mortgage, which would increase my monthly payment, or should I get a car that would cost around $20,000, which would lower my monthly payment? I don't know where to get the money to do either.My 91-year-old dad has a $3,500-$4,000 monthly shortfall in his long-term care expenses and is down to his last $25,000. I'm considering a reverse mortgage for him, as this could allow him to stay in his home for another 2.5 years. What are your thoughts on the different types of reverse mortgages and whether this could be a good option for his situation?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationMovement MortgageNational Christian Foundation (NCF)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advi

When the topic of generosity comes up in church, reactions can be mixed. Some tune out, assuming the message is about funding a project or filling a financial gap. But generosity is about much more than meeting needs—it’s about the heart behind the act. Let’s explore not only why we should give but also why we shouldn’t and how to cultivate a heart for biblical generosity.Why We Shouldn’t Give1. Guilt Shouldn’t Be Your MotivationMany Christians have been influenced by guilt-driven messages, from legalism to the prosperity gospel. These teachings suggest that not giving enough equates to stealing from God or forfeiting His blessings. However, the Bible paints a different picture.In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul reminds us, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Faithful giving stems from joy, not guilt or obligation.It’s also crucial to distinguish between guilt and conviction. Guilt comes from the enemy and leads us away from Christ, while conviction comes from the Holy Spirit, drawing us closer to God. Hebrews 10:22 reassures us that, through Christ’s sacrifice, we are freed from guilt. If guilt drives your giving, pause and prayerfully examine your heart.2. Giving to Control the ChurchSometimes, people give to influence church decisions, designating funds to specific ministries or withholding support to express disagreement with leadership. This approach can sow division and turn generosity into a transaction.Giving with strings attached undermines the act of worship and reflects a lack of trust in God’s sovereignty. As stewards of God’s resources, we are called to support His work, even when we don’t agree with every decision.3. Seeking Self-Righteousness Through GivingGenerosity should not be a means to feel morally superior. In Luke 18:11-12, Jesus shares the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. The Pharisee flaunted his giving to showcase his righteousness, while the tax collector humbly sought God’s mercy.Faithful giving is a response to God’s grace, not a way to earn recognition or status. If pride motivates your generosity, it’s time to reassess your heart.Principles for Generous GivingTo develop a heart of biblical generosity, consider these principles:1. Make Giving a PriorityProverbs 3:9 teaches, “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce.” Giving should come first—not as an afterthought or leftover.2. Embrace Sacrificial GivingIn 2 Samuel 24:24, David declares, “I will not offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God that cost me nothing.” True generosity often requires sacrifice, mirroring Christ’s sacrificial love for us.3. Give CheerfullyAs Paul emphasizes in 2 Corinthians 9:7, “God loves a cheerful giver.” Joyful giving reflects trust in God’s provision and a desire to participate in His work.Reflect Before You GiveBefore giving, ask yourself:Am I giving out of gratitude, joy, and a desire to honor God?Or are guilt, control, or pride influencing my decision?God values the heart behind your generosity far more than the size of your gift. By giving with a spirit of gratitude and humility, you participate in advancing His Kingdom and glorifying Him through your stewardship.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've lived with a roommate for the past three years, and he has not had a job since March. I haven't been able to set any money aside or anything like that, with me covering those, and I wanted to know if you had any advice on what I should do if I should move out or otherwise.I have a son who's considering bankruptcy. He has more than just credit card debt, and I'm concerned about what filing bankruptcy will do to his credit and how long it would take him to recover. He's hoping to be able to buy a house soon.My friend told me about an IRA manager, and I am about to sign the contract. They charge 1.5%, and I want to know if that is normal. I'm about to sign a check for $8,000, and I just want more information about that. Also, can you tell me about an annuity? I don't know much about it.When my grandmother died, in her will, she left your house to me and my aunt pending her husband's death. Well, before her husband died, he ended up giving the property to somebody else, and because of that, my aunt and I were just left out. Is that legal? Can you confirm whether it's true that you must report interest gained to the federal government if you open a high-yielding savings account?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationBetterment | Schwab Intelligent PortfoliosLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody

Do you dream of being financially free but are unsure where to start? Stay with us—we’re here to help.Knowing what to do and actually doing it are two very different things. Today, we’ll share the steps to achieve financial freedom, but the decision to take action is yours. Like most worthwhile goals, it starts with the desire and determination to make it happen.Start with a Mindset ShiftFinancial freedom begins with a change in perspective. Many people approach budgets like a diet—focused on restriction and deprivation. Just as restrictive diets often lead to overeating, feeling financially deprived can lead to overspending.Why does this happen? The Bible identifies underlying issues like greed, envy, covetousness, or a lack of faith in God’s provision. To overcome these, you need to cultivate gratitude.As 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says:“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”Gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have, enabling contentment and a more positive relationship with your budget.Practical Tips for Living Below Your MeansOnce your mindset is aligned, it’s time to take action. Here are some practical steps to help you live below your means:1. Build MarginHaving money left over at the end of the month is critical for financial freedom. Start by scrutinizing your fixed expenses:Can you lower your mortgage payment by eliminating PMI?Reduce energy costs by being more efficient.Cancel unused streaming subscriptions or other recurring charges.Sometimes, simply asking for a discount—on medical bills or repairs—can save money. It never hurts to ask!2. Track Your SpendingKnowing where your money goes is essential. The FaithFi app is an excellent tool for setting up a budget and tracking your spending. It can highlight areas where you can cut back, like unused subscriptions, potentially saving hundreds of dollars annually.3. Celebrate Small WinsBudgeting doesn’t have to feel like a punishment. Reward yourself for hitting financial milestones:Treat your family to ice cream after a week of staying on budget.Celebrate building your emergency fund with a special dinner.These small rewards keep you motivated without derailing your financial progress.4. Delay Non-Essential ExpensesStretch out spending for non-essentials like salon visits or subscriptions. For example, getting your nails done every six weeks instead of four can save $100 a year.5. Declutter and Sell Unused ItemsIf you’re paying for storage, consider selling items you no longer need. A good rule of thumb: Let it go if you haven’t used it in a year. This can free up cash and eliminate unnecessary expenses.Increase Your IncomeIf you’ve trimmed your expenses but still struggle to live below your means, it’s time to explore ways to boost your income.Take on a side job in the gig economy.Pick up extra hours at work or ask for a raise.Leverage your skills for freelance or consulting opportunities.Even a modest income increase can significantly improve your financial situation over time.Learning to live below your means allows you to serve God more fully, free from the weight of financial stress. It’s a journey of faith, discipline, and intentionality, but the rewards—both spiritual and financial—are worth it.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I recently left a domestic violence situation and will be receiving around $200,000 from the sale of our home. I have limited income and minimal debt. Should I use the home sale proceeds to pay off all my debt to start fresh, or should I keep the debt and make payments to rebuild my credit while holding onto the home sale money for a year or two?I'm turning 65 in March and will be Medicare-eligible. However, I plan to continue working and have employer-sponsored insurance, including an HSA, to which I contribute. I've heard conflicting information—can I continue not enrolling in Medicare now, and can my employer continue contributing to my HSA?My IRA advisor is transferring to LPL Financial. Charles Schwab recommended that I roll over my $300,000 IRA to them and invest directly in stocks rather than mutual funds, saying I was too conservatively invested. Should I stay with my current advisor as they move to LPL, or should I look for a new advisor at Charles Schwab or elsewhere?I have one loan left, a 7.25% bank loan of about $20,000. I also took out a $14,000 401(k) loan. I plan to retire in May when I turn 65. Would it be best for me to pay off both of these loans before I retire, even though it would mean withdrawing from my 401(k) to pay off that loan?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationNerdWalletLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your

“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” - Proverbs 12:15It’s good to learn from your mistakes, but it’s even better to learn from someone else’s. Rachel Wong joins us today with three big financial mistakes that young adults often make…so you can avoid them.Rachel Wong is an Accredited Financial Counselor® and the creator of Open Hands Finance: a biblically-based content curriculum that teaches money skills to emerging adults.Money Missteps: 3 Easy Mistakes To Avoid As A Young AdultMoney management is a crucial skill, especially for young adults just starting their financial journey. Here are three key financial mistakes young adults often make and how to avoid them: 1. Waiting to Save for RetirementMany young adults think they’ll start saving for retirement once they “make more money.” This delay can cost them valuable years of compound interest. Starting in your 20s is like taking a leisurely walk—manageable and effective. Waiting even a few years turns the journey into a sprint.Tip: Open a Roth IRA and start contributing small amounts monthly. Even $25 a month can grow significantly over time.2. Waiting to Start GivingSome believe they’ll start giving once they earn a larger paycheck. But let’s remember the story of the widow’s mite. Despite her poverty, she gave anyway, reminding us of what it means to be faithful in our giving, regardless of our income.Tip: Begin giving a small, regular percentage of your income now. It’s not just about generosity—it’s about developing a habit that aligns your heart with God’s abundance.3. Relying on Willpower for SavingsManually setting aside money every month can be challenging. That’s why automating our savings can help when we struggle with consistency.Tip: Automate savings and retirement contributions. Set up a monthly transfer to ensure consistency, regardless of life’s demands.Teaching Young Adults to Manage Money BiblicallyOpen Hands Finance combines biblical wisdom with actionable exercises, such as setting up a budget and opening a Roth IRA. The program includes a unique matching incentive—sponsored by parents, universities, or third parties—to encourage participation.The curriculum’s student-led approach makes it relatable and impactful. It’s not just theoretical; it equips participants with tools to live below their means, practice generosity, and plan for the future.If you’re a college student or young professional—or know someone who could benefit—visit OpenHandsFinance.com to learn more about the curriculum and resources.Money is a resource God has entrusted to us. Managing it wisely allows us to live generously and reflect His abundance. Start today and set yourself on a path of faith-filled financial stewardship.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:What are your thoughts about a company called Thrivent Financial? Are they a reputable and trustworthy company that does a good job? Also, would moving around $150k from my 401(k) into an annuity with a 1.1% fee and a 6% guarantee be a good move?Can I do a home equity line of credit to pay off some of my debt, like a few credit cards and some accumulated bills?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationOpen Hands FinanceLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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.

At this time of year, many people hate going to the mailbox or checking their email. That’s because the Christmas bills are starting to roll in.Yes, the holidays are behind us, but for many people, burgeoning credit card balances are just ahead. If you think you’ll have trouble making those payments, Neile Simon is here with a plan to help you get out of debt.Neile Simon is a Certified Credit Counselor with Christian Credit Counselors (CCC), an underwriter of Faith & Finance.The Growing Problem of Credit Card DebtCredit card debt has surpassed $1.16 trillion, marking a 50% increase in just three and a half years. By 2024, the average credit card debt for individuals carrying unpaid balances reached $7,200. Rising costs due to inflation have pushed many to rely on credit cards just to get by.This growing burden isn’t just financial—it also creates fear, anxiety, and helplessness. These feelings do not come from God. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation is the first step toward finding freedom from debt.Do You Need Credit Counseling?If you’re struggling with credit card debt, it’s essential to ask for help. Neely recommends reaching out for credit counseling if:You have an unpaid balance of more than $4,000.You’re struggling to keep up with minimum payments.You feel stuck, making payments with little progress.Debt is causing you stress or sleepless nights.Christian Credit Counselors can provide guidance and support to help you regain control of your finances.Why Choose Debt Management Over Debt Settlement?Christian Credit Counselors take a debt management approach, which differs significantly from debt settlement or consolidation. Here’s how it works:Pre-Negotiated Terms: They work with creditors to lower your interest rates (ranging from 1–12% APR) and monthly payments.Debt Snowball Method: Payments are structured to help you get out of debt up to 80% faster, all while honoring your debt in full.Customizable Enrollment: You can choose which accounts to enroll in, and the accounts included will be closed during the program.Free Budgeting Support: Counselors help you create a budget, identify areas to cut back, and understand your disposable income.This approach focuses on integrity and honoring your commitments while providing a clear path to financial freedom.The Biblical Foundation for Debt ManagementManaging debt isn’t just about financial freedom—it’s also a way to honor God. Neely emphasizes the importance of aligning debt repayment with biblical values. Romans 13:7-8 encourages believers:“Give to everyone what you owe them … Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another.”Through debt management, Christians can fulfill their financial responsibilities, honor their commitments, and live generously, reflecting God’s principles.Take the First Step Toward FreedomIf you’re ready to explore debt management, Christian Credit Counselors offers free consultations with no obligation. Their goal is to educate you on your options and help you achieve financial well-being while staying true to your faith.Visit ChristianCreditCounselors.org or call 800-557-1985 to learn more.Managing debt wisely allows us to honor God and live a life of generosity and service to others. Take the step today toward financial freedom and faithful stewardship.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I currently have a 401(k) and a Roth IRA. I'm wondering if I should be investing in both or if I should just focus on one. What's the best approach here?I have an 18-year-old granddaughter with about $16,000 in a custodial account at Edward Jones. When she turns 18 in May, she'll have complete control over this money. I don't know if she knows about it yet. What would be the best way to handle this? Should I take the money out and put it in a high-yield savings account? Or could I put it into a Roth IRA for her?My husband and I own a small business and are 71 years old. We have $23,000 in high-interest credit card debt from the business. We recently paid off a home equity line of credit. Would it be better to transfer that debt to the home equity line with a lower interest rate? Is mixing business and personal debt a good idea? I also haven't paid business taxes yet for this year, so I would like to know if keeping the Visa debt separate as a business expense is better for tax purposes.When withdrawing from my brokerage investment account, how should I calculate the cost basis of the investments I'm selling? I know there are different methods, like last-in and first-out, but I'm unsure which is the most appropriate. I have a CPA but haven't discussed this with them yet. What would you recommend I do?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationChristian Credit CounselorsOpen Hands FinanceLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Ch

“Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.” - Proverbs 21:20God’s Word couldn’t be any plainer on the need to live below one’s means and to be able to save for the future. To do that, you need a budget. Chad Clark is here to share some interesting facts about budgeting.Chad Clark is the Executive Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance and the co-author of Look at the Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety. More People Budget Than You Think—But There's a CatchA recent NerdWallet survey revealed that 75% of Americans have a monthly budget. Encouraging, right? However, the same survey found that 84% of those individuals regularly exceed their budget.What happens when people overspend? For 44%, it means relying on credit cards, while 56% dip into their savings. Both paths can lead to financial instability, highlighting the importance of creating a budget that works—and sticking to it.Why Do People Avoid Budgeting?We have heard a variety of reasons why people avoid budgeting, including:“It takes too much time.”“I don’t like math.”“I can’t stick to it—it feels like a diet.”“I don’t need a budget; I’m doing fine.”“It limits my freedom.”Most of these reasons stem from misconceptions about what budgeting truly involves.Busting Common Budgeting MythsHere are a few common misconceptions about budgeting—and the truth behind them:1. “A budget is about cutting expenses.”Not true! A budget is a decision-making tool to help you prioritize spending and make wise financial choices. It’s about aligning your spending with your values, not just slashing costs.2. “A budget is too rigid.”Your budget can be as flexible as you need it to be. It’s meant to adapt to your circumstances and help you make adjustments when necessary.3. “I don’t need a budget because I make enough money.”Even multi-million-dollar companies use budgets! A budget helps you steward what God has entrusted to you, regardless of your income level.How the FaithFi App Can Help You Budget BetterThe FaithFi app is designed to make budgeting accessible, effective, and Christ-centered. Here’s how it can help:1. Tailored to Your Money Management StyleThe app offers three different ways to manage your money so you can choose the method that works best for you.2. Establishes Healthy Financial RhythmsWhether you prefer daily check-ins or weekly reviews, the app helps you build habits that keep your finances on track.3. Focuses on More Than MoneyFaithFi integrates financial management with spiritual growth. Its content and community features encourage you to be a faithful steward of God’s resources.Ready to Get Started?The FaithFi app is more than a budgeting tool—it’s a resource to help you manage your money intentionally and grow in your relationship with the Lord. It’s about bringing order to your finances and aligning your decisions with God’s principles.Download the FaithFi app today at FaithFi.com or find it in your app store by searching for “FaithFi: Faith & Finance.” Make this the year you take control of your finances and honor God as a faithful steward.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I separate my giving in three ways—to my church, InTouch Ministries with Charles Stanley, and a ministry that works with autistic children. Is there anything wrong with splitting up my giving like this if that's what's on my heart?I have a self-directed IRA, called a "checkbook IRA," that I used to invest in a rental property. I have both traditional 401(k) and Roth 401(k) savings. When I retire in under two years, I plan to roll my 401(k) into the IRA to pay off the loan on the rental property. Is there any issue with commingling the Roth and traditional 401(k) funds to do this?I've been retired for a number of years, and my one daughter is a few years away from retirement. I would like to know the tax implications if I withdraw the money from my Roth IRA now and give it to her versus letting her accept it as a beneficiary when I pass away. Would she have to pay any taxes on it either way?I have a 14-year-old child and a newborn, and I've opened brokerage accounts for both of them. What are the best investment options, especially for newborns with a longer time horizon? I'm not looking to earmark the money specifically for college, but I want to invest it for their future. What are some good options to consider?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly PublicationList Of Faith-Based Investment FundsLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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 w

What if everything you own isn’t really yours? It’s a biblical truth that changes everything once you grasp it. The belief that God owns it all has profound implications for how we manage our resources—and our lives. Let’s explore what it means to be a faithful steward of everything God has entrusted to us.The Foundation of Biblical Money ManagementThe cornerstone of biblical money management is the belief that God owns everything. Psalm 24:1 states this clearly:“The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein.”Paul builds on this truth in 1 Corinthians 4:7, reminding us that all we have is a gift from God:“What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?”Acknowledging this truth is one thing; living it out is another. It requires a shift in how we view money and possessions. God isn’t a consultant or silent partner in our financial decisions—He’s the owner. As His stewards, we’re entrusted to manage His resources for His purposes.What Does It Mean to Be a Steward?The Koine Greek word for steward, oikonomos, means “household manager.” Like a household manager oversees someone else’s property, we manage God’s resources. We own nothing but are responsible for everything under our care, including our finances, time, talents, and relationships.Even our ability to earn a living is a gift to be managed wisely. Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us:"You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the power to get wealth."Stewardship ResponsibilitiesAs stewards, we manage God’s resources according to His will, not our own. This means making decisions that align with His purposes. Let’s break down our responsibilities as stewards.1. Accountability to GodWe are accountable to God for how we manage His resources. Romans 14:12 says:“So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.”This includes using our resources to advance God’s Kingdom, care for others, and reflect His character. Similarly, 2 Corinthians 5:10 reminds us:"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil."2. Living with an Eternal PerspectiveInstead of focusing on temporal wealth, stewards invest in eternal treasures. Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:19-21:"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth…but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven."3. Faithfulness in Small ThingsFaithful stewards handle even the smallest responsibilities with care. Jesus emphasizes this in Luke 16:10:“One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much.”4. Generosity and Open HandsWhen we acknowledge God as the owner of all we have, it becomes easier to hold our possessions loosely. Faithful stewards give generously, reflecting God’s generosity and trusting Him to provide for their needs.5. Humility in SuccessGood stewards recognize that all they have comes from God. Jesus warns against pride in the Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21), where a man takes credit for his wealth without acknowledging God’s provision. Faithful stewards give God the credit for their success.Stewardship Transforms Our LivesLiving as faithful stewards transforms how we approach our finances—and our lives. It brings greater purpose, responsibility, and joy. Most importantly, it reflects our commitment to Christ and our trust in Him for all things.Our ultimate goal is to hear Jesus say, “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” (Matthew 25:23).By embracing the truth that everything belongs to God, we honor Him as the owner and find freedom in managing His resources for His glory. Let this perspective guide your financial journey and every decision you make.FaithFi’s New Publication: Faithful Steward Starting this month, FaithFi is launching a new quarterly publication, Faithful Steward. This resource invites you to join us on a journey of faithful stewardship, aligning your faith and finances to glorify God and bless others.To start receiving Faithful Steward every quarter, become a FaithFi partner by giving $35 or more per month or $400 or more annually. Visit FaithFi.com/give to partner with us and receive this inspiring publication delivered right to your mailbox.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Am I responsible financially for my 78-year-old aunt's condo? She needs major renovations, like a kitchen renovation, but she doesn't want to refinance to pay for it. I will be the beneficiary of the condo once she passes away through a Lady Bird Deed. Some family members are telling me I should pay for the renovations, but I'm unsure if I'm responsible.My father-in-law passed away about a month ago, and I'm helping my mother-in-law navigate everything. They had about $11,000 in credit card debt. The credit card companies said they could stop the intere

Money and relationships are a tricky combination. When a family member or close friend asks to borrow money, it can put you in a difficult spot. On the one hand, you want to help someone you care about, but on the other, lending money can easily lead to strained relationships or hurt feelings.Proverbs 22:7 reads, “The borrower becomes slave to the lender.” Lending money can hurt a relationship. And that can happen whether you lend the money or not. You’re “between a rock and a hard place,” and it seems like either way, someone may end up resentful.There are really only three things that can happen, and only one of them is good: If you decide not to lend the money, the other person could be upset. If you do lend the money and the other person doesn’t repay it, you’ll probably be upset.It’s only the third possibility that makes everyone happy: You lend the money, and the borrower pays it back. But consider carefully why they asked to borrow in the first place. They may not be able to repay the loan if they’re already in bad shape financially, for whatever reason.Fortunately, God’s Word gives us guidance here. What Does The Bible Say? First, God’s Word tells us to help those in need…lending money if necessary. Deuteronomy 15:8 says, “You shall open your hand to him and lend him sufficient for his need, whatever it may be.”Turning to the New Testament, in the Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5:42, Jesus says, “Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”Finally, 1 Timothy 5:8 might make you think the only proper response is to lend money to a family member. It reads, “But 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.”Should You Always Lend Money When Asked?Not at all. The above Scriptures imply a couple of things: First, there must truly be a need. Second, lending the money would help the borrower and not contribute to that person making more unwise financial decisions. Here, Scripture has more to say:Proverbs 13:11 warns about one possible outcome of lending money. It reads, “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” Getting a loan is often the “easy way out.”Maybe the borrower tells you the loan would be a “lifeline”—which it may be. But it’s also “easy money,” and the borrower may not appreciate the effort it takes to create that wealth. When you have to work hard for something…you tend to want to hold onto it.Hard work produces character and wisdom. Proverbs 21:20 reads, “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.”How Can I Discern A Real Need?So before you get out the checkbook, think carefully about whether there’s a real need. You also have to be sure that lending the money will actually help the borrower. Here are some questions to ask yourself:Can the borrower repay the loan? If there is not sufficient income or ability to repay, promises to repay will be futile.Then ask, what shape will you be in if the money isn’t repaid? If you can’t afford to lose it, you can’t afford to lend it.Then ask, "Can you help in another way?" For example, if someone needs money to repair a car, could you give rides to work until they’ve saved enough for the repairs?And last, ask yourself, can you make the money a gift instead of a loan? That way, you’re not expecting it to be paid back, so you can’t be disappointed, and your relationship won’t suffer. Again, only do that if you can afford it, and the gift should not encourage further financial mismanagement.Finally, if you decide to lend the money, you should draft a written agreement specifying the amount, interest rate, payment structure, and collateral. This will help eliminate misunderstandings later.FaithFi’s New Publication: Faithful Steward We’ve covered this topic in our brand-new quarterly publication, Faithful Steward. Featuring insightful articles and contributions from leading voices in Christian finance, Faithful Steward will help you view money not as an end in itself but as a tool to glorify God and serve others.You can receive this inspiring publication every quarter by becoming a FaithFi partner at $35 or more monthly or $400 a year or more. Visit FaithFi.com/Give to get started today.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a mortgage at 5.92% that I've only had since June of last year. I've been making extra $200 payments on the principal each month. When would be a good time for me to consider refinancing to get a lower rate? And if I refinance, will I lose any of the equity I've built from the extra principal payments?My husband and I recently retired and are trying to determine the appropriate amount to tithe now that we're living off our investments and pension. We're having a disagreement. He thinks we're "double paying" since we already tithed on that money when we earned it. I believe we shoul

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it." - 1 Corinthians 9:24The apostle Paul exhorted the early church at Corinth to run in such a way as to win the prize, but sometimes, with finances, it feels like we’re in a race with no end! Today, Rachel McDonough joins us to talk about setting financial finish lines. Rachel McDonough is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and a regular Faith & Finance contributor.What Are Financial Finish Lines?Financial finish lines answer the question: How much is enough? This concept is built around two primary purposes for financial resources:Provision: Ensuring we meet our personal and family needs.Kingdom Impact: Using resources generously to advance God’s Kingdom.While there’s no finish line for Kingdom impact—our generosity can grow indefinitely—establishing clear finish lines in the provision bucket enables us to responsibly allocate more resources for generosity.Setting Finish Lines in the Provision Bucket1. Lifestyle SpendingDefining “enough” for lifestyle spending is the first step. One approach is to use a multiple of the poverty line income for your household. For instance, in 2024, the poverty line income for a family of four is $31,200. Using this as a benchmark, you can determine an appropriate multiple to guide your lifestyle choices.By setting these parameters, you can also calculate how much you’ll need for retirement with greater clarity.2. Gifts to Family MembersAnother key area is determining how much is enough when giving to children or grandchildren. While it’s natural to want to help, large, unearned gifts can sometimes have adverse effects. Prayerfully discern how to meet the needs of each family member in a way that fosters responsibility and independence. Like Ron Blue has often said: “If I love my children equally, I will treat them uniquely.”3. Asset AccumulationFinish lines for asset accumulation answer the question: How much is enough for future provision? Without setting limits, resources that could be used for Kingdom impact may remain stalled in a “potential future needs” category. Financial planning helps determine this figure, often incorporating a margin for unexpected circumstances.Catalyzing Kingdom ImpactEstablishing finish lines within the provision bucket frees resources for the Kingdom impact bucket. These funds can be directed toward generosity, allowing you to partner with God in advancing His work.A Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®) can be an invaluable partner in this process. They can provide tools for cash flow management, budgeting, and financial planning to help you discern how much is enough. As you reflect on your financial goals this year, consider setting finish lines in key areas of your provision. Doing so not only brings clarity and peace but also opens the door to greater Kingdom impact.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm married, but my wife and I disagree on budgeting and spending. I feel we need a budget to manage our money better, but she is more liberal with spending than I am. How can I get us on the same page?I recently bought a car, but now it's not fitting into my budget. The insurance went up, and I have no extra money. I'm worried I'll end up in a hole. Can I return the car or get out of it without hurting my credit?Resources Mentioned:Money and Marriage God’s Way by Howard DaytonChristian Credit CounselorsLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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.

Did you know that anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the U.S. today? You might assume that we have a major anxiety problem just by the number of commercials you see for new medicines to treat these disorders, but is anxiety really a new thing?The Reality Of AnxietyModern medicine recognizes anxiety in many forms: generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety, and various phobias. Data shows nearly a third of all U.S. adults will experience some form of anxiety in their lifetime. The cost of treating anxiety disorders in the U.S. runs into the tens of billions of dollars, with an even higher economic impact due to lost productivity.What causes this widespread anxiety? According to the Mayo Clinic, the causes aren’t fully understood but likely include physical and mental health issues, as well as negative life events such as job loss or financial troubles.If you’re struggling with persistent anxiety, it’s crucial to see a doctor. Medication and counseling can be transformative.Jesus’ Teachings On AnxietyDespite appearing like a modern affliction exacerbated by hectic schedules, technology overload, and perhaps even diet, anxiety is not new. We know this because Jesus addresses it in the Bible, particularly Matthew 6 and Luke 12.Matthew 6:25-26 says: “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”Imagine the disciples traveling around Galilee and Judea, relying on donations for their needs. It’s easy to see why they might have felt anxious about where they’d sleep or their next meal. Jesus encourages them to have faith. In Matthew 6:31-33, He says:“Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”Resisting The Love Of MoneyJohn Rinehart, founder of Gospel Patrons, explains that Jesus aims to free us from fear and anxiety to be distinct from the world. The world often idolizes money and seeks comfort and security through wealth. While financial planning is important, it shouldn’t be for the sake of leisure alone. Rinehart notes that the world is preoccupied with wealth, which can be perilous for Christians.Jesus warns of this temptation, emphasizing the need to resist the love of money by recognizing our value to God. He made us with a purpose. Jesus instructs us to seek God’s Kingdom and righteousness first, promising our needs will be met.We must actively participate in our provision and trust God to fulfill His promise. When we understand our worth to God, we’ll pursue His Kingdom and boldly share the Gospel, glorifying Him in the process.The Choice We All Have To MakeUltimately, we all face a choice: will we follow the world or seek the Kingdom of God and His righteousness? We can’t do both. As Jesus states in Matthew 6:24:“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”Choose God over money and watch the cares of the world fade away.Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional from FaithFiIf you want to transform your approach to money through faith and find peace in God’s provision, you can purchase a copy of Look at the Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety at FaithFi.com/sparrows. This devotional will take you on a journey through Scripture to help you discover how to move from financial fear to a life anchored in trust and generosity.Also, if you become a FaithFi Partner at $35 per month, you can receive our latest studies and devotionals before they are even available to the general public. That’s just our way of saying thank you for supporting the vital work of this ministry.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My mom recently passed away, leaving some inheritance to the family. I'm the executor of the estate, and I want to see if there's a godly formula for giving to the church, missions, and retirement and investments.I'm about to lose my job soon, and I have a paid-off condo, but my HOA fees are increasing, and I don't have much savings. I'm considering getting a home equity loan to have money for a down payment on a new home, whether I rent out the condo or sell it. What do you think about that?I've lived in my house for 18 years and am considering selling it. What is home equity, and how can I use it to my advantage when selling the house?Resources Mentioned:National Christian Foundation (NCF)Compassion Gift CatalogGospel PatronsLook At The

Some people learn from the mistakes of others. Unfortunately, some people have to be the others.Well, you certainly don’t want to be one of the “others” who have to learn things the hard way by making mistakes. Today, we’ll talk to Ron Blue about some of the biggest financial mistakes you want to avoid.Ron Blue is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, most notably “Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment.”Setting Financial GoalsWithout clear financial goals, you're essentially aiming at nothing. Goals help you prioritize and manage your spending effectively. Setting goals provides direction and ensures that your spending aligns with your priorities.Avoiding a Consumptive LifestyleA consumptive lifestyle involves spending significantly more than necessary, often on things that don’t build financial equity. We all face the temptation of greed—a new car or a dress. Overspending on consumable items leads to a lack of financial growth. Instead, focus on investing in things that build equity and create long-term value.The Pitfall of GreedGreed is often disguised in pursuing the American dream. It's a subtle but pervasive issue. Tim Keller, a well-known pastor, once pointed out that in his experience, greed is rarely confessed as a sin. We often justify our spending under the guise of higher motives, which can lead to financial mismanagement. Avoiding greed starts with creating and sticking to a budget.The Importance of BudgetingMany view budgeting as restrictive, but it's quite the opposite—budgeting is liberating. A budget allows for pre-planned spending, which includes saving for vacations and preparing for emergencies like car repairs or broken appliances. Planning your expenses provides financial freedom and security.Giving: A Key to Financial FreedomMany believe that giving should come from surplus rather than regular income. However, giving is essential for experiencing true financial freedom. It's not about the money but about your heart and willingness to trust and honor God with your finances.By following these principles, you can achieve financial contentment and freedom. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 62, and my wife is 56. Due to market concerns, our advisor recommended shifting our portfolio to 50% stocks and 50% bonds a few years ago. We're generally more aggressive investors. Am I missing out on potential earnings by being more conservative?My in-laws are about 80 years old and have some well-matured savings bonds. The last time they used some of the bonds for home upgrades, they got hit with a significant tax bill. Is there anything they can do to move the savings bonds in a way that avoids the tax impact?I just turned 65 in July. I read that the age for collecting full Social Security benefits was pushed back. What is my full retirement age now? And can I still work without affecting my benefits once I reach full retirement age?I'm 72 years old. Last year, I set up charitable contributions from my IRA, but the church I attend is not a 501(c)(3) organization. Does it need to be a 501(c)(3) for me to make those qualified charitable distributions from my IRA? Also, I've been working part-time. How much can I contribute to a Roth IRA this year?Resources Mentioned:Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment by Ron BlueTreasuryDirect.govLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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.

"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." - Colossians 3:17God created man for His glory. That means everything we do should glorify God, including how we manage money. Chad Clark joins us today to talk about how FaithFi is helping God’s people be more faithful stewards—all for His glory.Chad Clark is the Executive Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance and the co-author of Look at the Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety. Why FaithFi’s Mission Is CrucialMoney is more than a financial issue—it’s a heart issue. Chad explained how money and possessions, as seen throughout Scripture, often lead to pride, greed, and idolatry, drawing hearts away from God. This is just as true today as it was in biblical times.Shockingly, a recent study revealed that 94% of Christians do not hold a biblical worldview, highlighting the urgent need for ministries like FaithFi. Our work centers on equipping and encouraging believers to adopt a biblical perspective on money, helping them move from greed and idolatry to generosity and contentment rooted in treasuring God above all else.A Ministry of ImpactFaithFi’s mission comes alive through our various initiatives, including:The Faith & Finance Radio Show and Podcast:Reaching over 1.5 million weekly radio listeners across 1,900 stations and 825,000 podcast downloads annually, this program serves as a daily touchpoint for biblical financial wisdom. The FaithFi App:With over 65,000 members, the FaithFi app is a powerful tool for stewardship. Users engage in a supportive community, gain access to biblical financial professionals, and find resources to help them manage what God has entrusted to them wisely. Studies and Devotionals:New resources like Rich Toward God (a study on the Parable of the Rich Fool) and Look at the Sparrows (a devotional addressing financial fear and anxiety) provide deeper opportunities for spiritual growth and transformation.Your Opportunity to Double the ImpactAs FaithFi continues to expand, we remain committed to equipping Christians to steward their resources for God’s glory. None of this would be possible without the generous support of our listeners and partners.This ministry thrives because of your generosity. Right now, every gift is doubled thanks to a matching challenge that ends tomorrow, December 31. Your support fuels resources like the FaithFi app, radio program, studies, and devotionals—reaching more hearts with God’s truth.Would you prayerfully consider making a gift today? Visit FaithFi.com/impact to make a difference. Together, we can help more believers treasure God above all else and experience the peace and contentment that comes from living generously.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm retired and converting my traditional IRA to a Roth, following my CPA's advice to go to the top of my tax bracket. I recently learned about accelerated Roth conversions and their potential impact on future taxes, Medicare, and Social Security. I'm not quite an IRA millionaire yet, but I'm getting close. Should I accelerate the Roth conversions, especially before year-end?I turned 66 and a half in June of this year and started receiving Social Security in July. Now that I've reached full retirement age, can I still work and earn unlimited income, or is there a cap on my annual income?I'm a recent high school graduate who will attend college in the fall. I'm deciding whether to get a job and put all the money into savings, living as sparingly as possible, or invest the money to make it work for me during this interim period before college.My husband and I have some basic ideas about teaching our kids, ages 7 to 12, about giving and financial wisdom from the Bible. However, we don't have a structured approach. Do you have any recommended resources or books to guide us in teaching biblical financial principles to kids in this age range?I'm going to be applying for Social Security soon. Is it best to apply for it online, go into the office, or do it by phone? Can I just do the application online?Resources Mentioned:FaithFi.com/impactThe Secret Slide Money Club Series by Dr. Art RainerOpen Hands Finance|Compass Financial MinistrySSA.govLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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.

The world is becoming more complex every day. Technology solves problems and creates new ones. How do you keep up?Among so many other things today, maybe you’ve noticed that managing your finances is increasingly complicated and involves more than balancing a checkbook. Sharon Epps joins us today with some much-needed advice—the 5 Ds of a Financial Reset.Sharon Epps is the President of Kingdom Advisors, FaithFi’s parent organization. Kingdom Advisors serves the broad Christian financial industry by educating and equipping professionals to integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.1. Define Your Financial VisionThe first step in a financial reset is to Define your standard of living. This goes beyond just wanting financial health; it’s about understanding your deeper motivations. What is your “why”? The Bible reminds us in John 10:10 that Jesus came so that we might have life and have it abundantly. This abundant life isn’t about wealth but about living a life full of peace and purpose. Define what that means for you and let it guide your financial decisions.2. Declutter Your Life and FinancesNext, it’s time to Declutter—and not just your finances but your physical space as well. Spend a weekend going through your home, room by room, asking yourself if each item is still useful. If you haven’t used something in the last year, consider selling it or giving it away. Decluttering your home can go a long way toward decluttering your life, making space for what truly matters.3. Delay Impulse PurchasesThe third step is to Delay your impulse purchases. Create a list of things you want to buy and note the date next to each item. Commit to waiting 30 days before making any purchase. More often than not, you’ll find that you didn’t really need or want the item after all. This simple habit can help you make more intentional spending decisions.4. Detect Spending HabitsThe fourth “D” is Detect. For 30 days, track all your spending and review your expenses. With today’s technology, this process is easier than ever since most of us rarely use cash. You can quickly review your bank and credit card statements online. As you do this, ask yourself what you would change. The FaithFi app is an excellent tool for this. It allows you to combine all your accounts in one place and helps you and your spouse stay on the same page regarding your finances.5. Decide on Your Spending and Giving PlansFinally, it’s time to Decide on your financial future. Overhaul your budget, check your priorities, and decide where your money will go. Make “giving” an essential part of your budget. Consider where you can cut expenses to be more generous, whether to your church or a ministry you’re passionate about. This step is about re-establishing your priorities and returning to the basics—financially and spiritually.The “5 Ds of a Financial Reset” offers a practical and spiritual approach to managing your finances in today’s complex world. By defining your financial vision, decluttering your life, delaying impulse purchases, detecting spending habits, and deciding on your budget, you can regain control of your finances and realign them with your spiritual values. Remember, tools like the FaithFi app can make this process even easier, helping you stay organized and focused on what truly matters.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a pension fund that I'm no longer contributing to, and I can roll it over into either a Roth IRA or a traditional IRA. Which one should I roll it over into where I would have the least tax burden?If I contributed to a traditional IRA, is there a waiting period before I can do a backdoor Roth?I have a couple hundred dollars that I would like to invest somewhere, and I want to be able to put money into it occasionally. I need to figure out where to start or put that money.I'm 67 and plan to work for 3-5 more years. I want to fund a traditional IRA, and I'm considering using it for QCDs once I turn 70.5. However, I've also been encouraged to put the money in a Roth IRA instead. What are your thoughts on that?Resources Mentioned:Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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.

You have to be at least 62 to collect Social Security…maybe because it takes that long to understand the program.Do you have questions about Social Security? Of course, you do. Who doesn’t? Well, you don’t want to miss today’s program. Eddie Holland is back to answer more of your questions about Social Security.Eddie Holland is a Senior Private Wealth Advisor and partner of Blue Trust in Greenville, South Carolina. He’s also a CPA, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), and a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®).Can You Claim Benefits Early and Switch Later? You can claim Social Security benefits at 62 and switch to spousal benefits later if the spousal benefit is higher than your own. However, if your benefit is higher, you must take that instead. Conversely, you must wait to claim spousal benefits first and then switch to your benefit at full retirement age; you must take the higher of the two benefits available.Survivor Benefits Exception Survivor benefits are an exception where you can take one benefit and let the other grow. For instance, a widow can claim a survivor benefit as early as 60 and then switch to her benefit at 70, which would have grown due to delayed retirement credits.Taxation of Social Security Benefits Social Security benefits can be taxed based on your combined income, including half of your Social Security benefits, adjusted gross income, and any tax-exempt interest. Federal taxes apply progressively, with higher income leading to more taxable benefits.Roth Conversions and Social Security Be cautious with Roth conversions, as they can increase your combined income and make more of your Social Security benefits taxable. This strategy might push you into a higher marginal tax bracket.Stopping Benefits If you decide to stop your Social Security benefits, you can do so within the first 12 months of receiving them if you're under full retirement age. Beyond that, you can pause benefits after reaching full retirement age to earn delayed retirement credits.Scams and Social Security There is an increasing problem of Social Security scams. Legitimate Social Security issues will be communicated via mail, not phone calls, emails, or social media messages. If in doubt, always verify by setting up an appointment with your local Social Security office.If you have questions about your benefits, consider consulting a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®) who can provide tailored advice for your unique situation. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a substantial amount in an IRA. Should I roll it over to a Roth IRA and pay the taxes upfront, or just leave it in the traditional IRA and pay taxes later when I take distributions?I'm 61 years old and have a car loan with 6.7% interest. I would like to know if I can take money from my 401(k) to pay off this car loan. Would that be a good idea?Resources Mentioned:Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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.

Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol is a timeless tale cherished for its powerful story of transformation. Yet beneath its heartwarming narrative lies a deeper commentary on economics, generosity, and faith—one that challenges the worldview of scarcity and embraces God’s abundance.Today, Jerry Bowyer will dive into the philosophical and theological themes within the story and help us discover what we can learn from Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey.Jerry Bowyer is the President of Bowyer Research and our Resident Economist here at Faith & Finance. He is the author of “The Maker Versus the Takers: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics.”The "Surplus Population" MindsetOne of the most striking moments in A Christmas Carol is Scrooge’s cold remark about the “surplus population.” This phrase reflects an ideology rooted in the teachings of Reverend Thomas Malthus, an 18th-century economist who believed that population growth would outpace resources, leading to widespread poverty. Malthus advocated for limiting population growth, particularly among the poor.Scrooge’s initial worldview mirrors this philosophy: a belief that resources are scarce, people are a burden, and the poor are expendable. This mindset not only disregards the inherent dignity of every person but also misrepresents the nature of God as generous and abundant.A Christmas Carol: A Response to MalthusianismDickens wrote A Christmas Carol as a critique of Malthusian ideas. Through Scrooge’s transformation, the story reveals the flaws in a worldview of scarcity. Scrooge begins the story isolated, stingy, and bitter—seeing others as competitors for limited resources. By the end, he embraces generosity, community, and joy, reflecting the biblical truth that humans are created in God’s image to love, create, and give.The Ghost of Christmas Present drives this point home by challenging Scrooge’s cold logic. In one scene, he rebukes Scrooge, asking, “Are you the surplus population?” This moment underscores that no one is surplus in God’s economy. Every person is valuable, created for a purpose, and capable of contributing to human flourishing.The transformation of Scrooge’s mindset from scarcity to abundance aligns with a biblical view of God’s provision. In Genesis 1:28, God commands humanity to “be fruitful and multiply” and to “fill the earth and subdue it.” Far from being burdens, people are creators and contributors, reflecting God’s creative nature.History supports this biblical principle. During Dickens’ time, industrial and economic advancements were lifting many out of poverty. Contrary to Malthus’ predictions, human ingenuity and collaboration were unlocking unprecedented prosperity. Dickens weaves this reality into A Christmas Carol, showing how generosity and a thriving community lead to abundance.Lessons from Scrooge’s RedemptionScrooge’s transformation offers timeless lessons:Embrace Generosity: The turning point in Scrooge’s story is his decision to give freely to others. Generosity reflects God’s character and opens the door to joy and community.Value Every Life: Tiny Tim, a child who might be dismissed as “surplus” in Scrooge’s old mindset, symbolizes hope and purpose. Dickens reminds us that every life is precious in God’s eyes.Challenge Scarcity Thinking: Scarcity thinking breeds fear, isolation, and selfishness. By contrast, faith in God’s abundance allows us to live with open hands and hearts.Redeem the Past: Scrooge’s journey with the Ghost of Christmas Past shows how trauma and hardship can shape our worldview. Yet, we can move beyond our past to live in freedom and generosity through grace, healing, and community.The themes of A Christmas Carol remain relevant in our world. Modern ideologies that devalue life, promote fear of overpopulation or prioritize self-interest mirror the Malthusian philosophy Dickens opposed. As believers, we are called to affirm every person's inherent worth and reflect God’s abundant generosity in how we live and give.Just as Scrooge learns, we are not “bugs” competing for limited resources. We are image-bearers of a loving Creator who calls us to steward the earth, care for one another, and trust His provision.As we watch A Christmas Carol or reflect on its message this Christmas season, let’s remember the gospel truth at its heart: God is generous, not stingy. He gave us His Son, Jesus, the ultimate gift of love and redemption.In the words of Tiny Tim, “God bless us, everyone!” May we live out that blessing by embracing generosity, valuing life, and trusting in the abundance of God’s provision.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My 84-year-old mother wants to gift each of us four kids a $100,000 CD. What's the best way for her to do this without us paying a lot of taxes?I want to use my retirement accounts to pay off my kids' college debt. Is there a way to do this without having to pay taxes on the withdrawals? Or can I get their debt reduced through government aid programs?

“And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” - Luke 2:10As Christians living in a materialistic society…we must remember to celebrate for the right reason…the birth of our Savior. Howard Dayton joins us to talk about that.Howard Dayton is the founder of Compass Financial Ministry and the former host of this program. He is also the author of several books on Christian Finance and Stewardship.The True Reason for the Season: A Savior Is BornAs Christmas approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of the season—gifts, decorations, and endless to-do lists. But amidst all the festivities, it’s important to intentionally focus on the true reason for the season: celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.At the heart of Christmas is the message of Luke 2:11–14:"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."This Scripture serves as a powerful reminder that Christmas is not about the gifts we give or receive but about the gift God gave us in His Son, Jesus. Reflecting on this passage helps us remember the miraculous story of Christ’s birth and its significance for our lives.Create Traditions That Keep Christ at the CenterOne meaningful way to keep Christ at the center of Christmas is by reading the story of His birth from Luke 2 as a family. Whether it’s on Christmas morning before opening presents or on Christmas Eve, pausing to reflect on this Scripture can anchor your celebrations in the real reason for the season.Consider making it a family tradition where each person takes turns reading a few verses. It’s a simple yet powerful way to instill the truth of the gospel in the hearts of children and remind everyone of God’s love and faithfulness.Christmas is also an opportunity to model and teach generosity. Just as God gave us the greatest gift in Jesus, we are called to give generously to others.Encourage children to share what they have with someone in need. For example, they could give a cherished toy to a child who might not receive any gifts this Christmas. Acts of generosity can create life-changing moments, not only for those who receive but also for those who give. These experiences help cultivate a heart of compassion and gratitude in children and deepen their understanding of what it means to follow Christ.Be Intentional About the Message of ChristmasIn a culture that often overlooks the true meaning of Christmas, it’s more important than ever to teach children intentionally—and remind ourselves—why we celebrate. Christmas is about honoring Jesus, who left heaven to come to earth, lived a sinless life, and ultimately died for our sins so we could have eternal life.If we are not intentional, we can easily get swept up in the culture’s focus on materialism and miss the priceless opportunity to point ourselves and others back to Christ.At the heart of Christmas is the ultimate act of generosity: God giving His Son for our salvation. This indescribable gift should inspire us to reflect that same spirit of generosity, not just during the holidays but throughout the year. Whether through acts of kindness, sharing resources with those in need, or offering our time to serve others, generosity mirrors the heart of God.Practical Steps for a Christ-Centered ChristmasHere are a few ways to ensure your Christmas celebrations keep Christ at the center:Start with Scripture: Read Luke 2 as a family before opening gifts or as part of a Christmas Eve tradition.Practice Gratitude: Take time to thank God for the gift of Jesus and the blessings He has provided.Model Generosity: Find creative ways to give, whether donating to a charity, serving in your community, or helping someone in need.Keep It Simple: Avoid the temptation to overcomplicate the season with endless activities. Focus on the moments that truly matter.Christmas is a season of joy, celebration, and hope because of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. By keeping Him at the center of our traditions and celebrations, we can honor the true meaning of the season and create lasting memories that glorify God.This Christmas, let’s remember the ultimate gift of God’s love and share it with others. May your celebrations be filled with the peace and joy that only Christ can bring!If you’d like to learn more about Compass Financial Ministry and the incredible work they are doing, visit CompassFinancialMinistry.org. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:What is the difference between a will and a trust?My father created a trust fund for the four of us siblings, with the oldest and youngest siblings in charge of the trust. The other siblings are having trouble getting information from them. Even though the two siblings in charge can access the fund, will my mother still need to approve any access to the money?Resources Mentioned:Compass Financial MinistryLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A

Beauty matters to painters, musicians, and photographers, but what does it have to do with investing? The creation account suggests that beauty is also at the core of faithful stewardship and investing. Today, we’ll discuss “Investing in Beautiful” with Jason Myhre of the Eventide Center for Faith & Investing.Jason Myhre is the Executive Director of the Eventide Center for Faith & Investing, an educational initiative of Eventide Asset Management, and an underwriter of Faith & Finance. The Experience of BeautyWe all encounter beauty in various forms—an orchestral performance, a mountain hike, a beach stroll, or even a bouquet of flowers at home. However, we seldom consider the role of beauty in our work or finances. Beauty is integral to creation and essential in our stewardship of God’s world.In Genesis, God is depicted as a worker, creating the heavens and the earth and declaring His creation "very good." The Hebrew word for "good" encompasses moral perfection, functional excellence, and surpassing beauty—a concept better captured by the compound word "beauty-good." God, as a master artisan, crafted a world full of potential and delight.Humanity is called to contribute to the beauty and goodness of creation through work. Genesis 2:15 says, “Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to cultivate it and tend it.” This passage indicates that humans are to make God's creation even better. God’s creation is full of hidden potential, like seeds, waiting for us to uncover and develop it through our work.Uncovering Creation’s PotentialConsider simple examples like bread and wine. God created grain with the potential to become bread and grapes with the potential to become wine. These transformations reveal the hidden potential within creation, brought to fruition through human work.A more sophisticated example relevant today is semiconductors, which are essential for our smart devices and computers. The fundamental material for semiconductors is sand. Kristen Say from Eventide Asset Management aptly describes it: “With semiconductors, we’re taking sand and teaching it to think.” This potential was embedded in creation from the beginning, waiting for us to uncover and develop it.Theologian Craig Bartholomew also offers a powerful analogy: Imagine being a sculptor and receiving a call from Michelangelo asking you to complete a sculpture he started. This mirrors our role in God’s creation: to finish and enhance the work God began, thereby revealing all its hidden beauty and goodness and glorifying God as the ultimate Creator.Applying This Vision to Business and InvestingAs Christians with a biblical worldview, we must view business and investing through the lens of this divine vision. The Genesis instructions for developing the beauty and goodness of creation still apply to us today. Businesses are called to create products and services that are genuinely good and that truly serve humanity. Investors play a crucial role by supplying the capital that enables and expands the good work of businesses.When contemplating investments, we should ask whether the companies we invest in create goods and services that enhance the world or harm God's creation. Embracing this perspective helps align our investments with our faith, ensuring they contribute positively to God's world.Faith-Based InvestingThe good news is that the faith-based investing movement is growing. Numerous Christian faith-based investments now help us avoid companies whose products contradict biblical values while supporting those that meet human needs and enhance the world.Understanding and developing the hidden potential in God's creation is a profound aspect of our work and investments. By aligning our investments with Christian values, we honor God and contribute to the ongoing revelation of His creation’s beauty and goodness.To learn more about faith-based investment resources and to find a list of faith-based investment options, visit faithandinvesting.com/faithfi.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 71 and recently lost my 77-year-old husband. I'm trying to manage my finances and assets to cover my expenses and have some growth for the future. I've talked to advisors but feel frozen and scared to make decisions. Please help guide me on the best approach.Resources Mentioned:Eventide Asset ManagementEventide Center for Faith & InvestingList of Faith-Based Investing FundsWise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan, JD. Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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 c

One of my favorite passages in the Bible is found in Luke 12:16-21, the Parable of the Rich Fool. While most of us don’t have barns today, Jesus’ warning about storing up earthly treasures is just as relevant now as it was then. So, what does it mean to be “rich toward God,” and why does it matter? Let’s dive into this powerful lesson.The parable begins with a wealthy man who has a problem many might envy—his land has produced so much that his barns aren’t big enough to store it all. His solution? Tear down the old barns and build bigger ones. He says to himself, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry” (Luke 12:19).At first glance, this sounds practical, even responsible. But Jesus reveals the man’s tragic mistake. God calls him a “fool” because his life will end that very night, and all his possessions will be left behind. Jesus concludes with a warning: “So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God” (Luke 12:21).What Does It Mean to Be Rich Toward God?“Rich toward God” is a striking phrase, and while Scripture doesn’t define it explicitly, we can infer its meaning through contrast. The Rich Fool’s mistake wasn’t his wealth but his heart. He prioritized his possessions over God, finding his security and satisfaction in material abundance rather than in his Creator.Being rich toward God means:Acknowledge God as Your Source – Recognize that all you have belongs to Him.Treasure God Above All – Count Him as your greatest riches, above money or possessions.Use Wealth for God’s Glory – Invest in His Kingdom by giving generously to those in need.Had the Rich Fool done this, his wealth could have been a tool for eternal good instead of a trap for his soul.The story of the Rich Fool reminds me of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Like the Rich Fool, Ebenezer Scrooge was consumed by wealth and self-interest. But Scrooge was given a second chance to change—and so are we.Jesus teaches that the way we use money is evidence of our faith. While works don’t save us, they reflect our relationship with God. Holding onto wealth for ourselves reveals a heart that treasures possessions more than the Giver of all good things.Money as a Tool, Not a TreasureIt’s important to note that money itself isn’t bad. It’s a powerful tool that can be used for good or bad, depending on how we handle it.The danger lies in letting money take God’s place in our hearts. As Jesus warns in Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” The Rich Fool’s failure wasn’t his wealth but his attitude. Instead of viewing his abundance as a gift from God, he saw it as an opportunity for personal indulgence.Imagine if the Rich Fool had responded differently. What if, instead of building bigger barns, he prayed, “God, this is all Yours. You have made my fields prosper. Show me how to use this blessing to glorify You and help others”?He might have used his wealth to feed the hungry, clothe the poor, or support God’s work. He could have shared in the joy of giving and discovered that, as Jesus said in Acts 20:35, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”Lessons for Us TodayThe Parable of the Rich Fool is a sobering reminder to examine our own hearts. Are we building bigger barns, accumulating wealth for our own comfort? Or are we using God’s blessings to invest in eternal treasures?Here’s how we can strive to be rich toward God:Trust in God’s Provision – Avoid placing your security in money.Give Generously – Use your resources to bless others and advance God’s Kingdom.Focus on Eternity – Remember that worldly wealth is temporary, but treasures in heaven last forever.The Rich Fool learned his lesson too late, but we don’t have to. Let’s choose today to prioritize God over possessions and live as wise stewards of His blessings.“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Let’s not just hear those words—let’s live them.Rich Toward God: FaithFi's Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolIf you’d like to combat pride in your life and grow closer to the Lord, purchase our study guide entitled Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool. With the Lord's guidance, FaithFi created it to expand our understanding of His amazing love for us and what it means to follow him with all our hearts. Get a copy for personal study or for everyone in your Bible study group to experience it together. Go to FaithFi.com/RTG to learn more!On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 35 years old, married but without kids, and have no significant assets. Is it still necessary for me to set up a will? And if so, what would I need to do to go about that?I'm considering retiring at 65, even though my full retirement age for Social Security is 67. If I wait to claim Social Security until I am 67, will my benefit amount continue to grow during the two years I'm not working, or will my lack of income negatively impact the benefit?I have a pretty nice house and a paid-

As Christmas draws near, stories of generosity and the spirit of giving abound. Few stories, however, embody these virtues more powerfully than the life of Saint Nicholas. Behind the modern image of Santa Claus lies the legacy of a man whose life reflected the true meaning of Christmas—selfless love and sacrificial giving.Born around 280 A.D. in Patara, Turkey, Nicholas was raised in a wealthy Christian family. From an early age, he was taught to care for the poor and live out the teachings of Jesus. His parents modeled these values daily, planting seeds of faith and generosity in his heart.Tragedy struck early in Nicholas’ life when an epidemic claimed both of his parents. Left orphaned but with a significant inheritance, Nicholas could have chosen to live in comfort. Instead, he embraced his faith, seeing his wealth as a tool to serve others and spread the love of Christ.The Secret Acts of KindnessNicholas became known for using his wealth to quietly help those in need. His most famous act of generosity involved a poor man with three daughters who were unable to marry due to their lack of dowries. Without this financial gift, the daughters faced the grim prospect of slavery.Moved by their plight, Nicholas secretly delivered a bag of gold to the family under the cover of night. He repeated this act twice more, ensuring all three daughters had a future free from poverty. When his identity was discovered, Nicholas humbly redirected the thanks to God, embodying Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6: “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.”A Life of ServiceNicholas later became the Bishop of Myra, a role that allowed him to extend his mission of compassion and justice. Known for his love for the poor and his courage in defending the innocent, he risked imprisonment during the persecution of Christians and stood firm for the gospel at the Council of Nicaea.His life was defined by Christlike love. Through his actions, he reminded people that true wealth is not found in material possessions but in a personal relationship with God. His kindness pointed others to the greatest gift of all: Jesus Christ, who came to bring salvation and eternal life.After Nicholas’ death on December 6th, 343 A.D., stories of his generosity spread across centuries. He became a symbol of selfless giving and was honored as the protector of children and the patron of sailors. Over time, his legacy inspired the modern figure of Santa Claus.But beyond the red suit and cheerful laughter lies the heart of Saint Nicholas’ story—a life lived to glorify God through love and generosity.The True Meaning of ChristmasThe story of Saint Nicholas challenges us to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. His life reminds us that the season isn’t about extravagant gifts or seeking recognition. It’s about embodying the love of Christ—a love that is sacrificial, humble, and freely given.As we exchange presents and celebrate with loved ones, let’s remember that the greatest gift has already been given. Like Saint Nicholas, we can share that gift with others through acts of kindness, generosity, and encouragement.This Christmas, may his story inspire us to give generously, love deeply, and reflect the light of Christ in a world that desperately needs hope. After all, as Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”Let’s celebrate this season by sharing the love that makes Christmas truly special.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm a 26-year-old newlywed looking to invest, and I'm wondering about your perspective on cryptocurrency—where you think it's headed in the future and if you're optimistic or pessimistic about it as an investment.My husband recently passed away, and I'm not 62 yet; I'm 61. Is there a negative side effect or penalty if I were to wait until I'm 62 to start collecting my own Social Security and then switch over to his survivor spousal benefit two to three years down the road?I have a savings account in a credit union for my grandchildren. Should I put the money into individual CDs for each child or keep it in one savings account?I have an old secured credit card from college that I've had for 9 years, but I can't get it unsecured. I'm considering closing it, but the banker said it would drop my credit score by 300 points. Is that accurate, and what kind of impact would I expect on my credit score from closing this older card?Resources Mentioned:Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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 ste

We sometimes regret the things we say, but often, words left unsaid can bother us just as much.We’ve all had the thought, “Oh, I wish I’d said this or that.” You had more to say, but for whatever reason, time ran out. Sharon Epps has some things to say about unfinished conversations today.Sharon Epps is the President of Kingdom Advisors, our parent organization. Kingdom Advisors is a group dedicated to training financial professionals to guide and advise you according to biblical principles.The Power of Unfinished ConversationsThe end of the year naturally becomes a season of change. Whether through unexpected interruptions or shifting circumstances, we often find ourselves in the middle of conversations that feel unresolved. These “unfinished” moments can leave us longing for closure or clarity, especially when circumstances prevent us from completing the dialogue.Unfinished conversations can be deeply personal. A sudden change at work, a shift in a relationship, or even an unexpected goodbye can leave us wishing we had said more—expressing gratitude, offering encouragement, or simply saying, “I appreciate you.” Unresolved words can linger in our hearts, creating a sense of loss that extends beyond the situation itself.Reclaiming Conversations and RelationshipsSome unfinished conversations need to be revisited. Reaching out to express what was left unsaid can bring healing to others and ourselves. Even after the fact, a kind word or a heartfelt message can be a powerful way to rebuild relationships and bring closure to unresolved moments.Sometimes, all it takes is a simple step to bridge the gap. For example, an email or a phone call that begins with, “I didn’t get a chance to tell you this, but…” can make a lasting impact. Thoughtful, intentional communication can transform lingering regrets into meaningful resolutions.When Conversations Can’t Be ReclaimedOf course, not every conversation can be recaptured. Death, distance, or circumstances may make it impossible to say the words we long to say. When faced with these situations, we can take comfort in surrendering those conversations to God.A meaningful practice for releasing unresolved conversations is to journal them as prayers. Writing down the words we wish we could say and giving them to God can bring peace and closure. As we do this, we can trust that God finishes what we cannot. Just as Jesus declared on the cross, “It is finished,” we can rest in knowing He brings completion to even the most challenging parts of our lives.Applying This to FinancesUnfinished conversations don’t just affect relationships—they often spill over into how we handle finances. Here are a few examples of financial conversations that can remain unresolved:Avoiding Money Goals: Spouses can get caught up in the daily whirlwind of life and neglect setting realistic financial goals together.Estate Planning: Families often avoid discussing inheritance or end-of-life plans, which can leave loved ones with uncertainty.Family Debt: Outstanding debts between relatives can create tension, especially when conversations about repayment are avoided.In these scenarios, it’s important to ask two key questions:Does this conversation need to be recaptured? Some situations call for a direct, honest discussion to resolve lingering uncertainty or tension.Does this conversation need to be released? Other situations may require surrendering unresolved feelings or conflicts to God and trusting Him to bring peace.A Challenge for This SeasonAs the holidays bring moments of togetherness and reflection, take time to consider the unfinished conversations in your life—whether relational or financial. Ask God for wisdom to know whether to recapture or release them.This season is a unique opportunity to bring closure where it’s needed and peace where it feels impossible. Trust God to finish what you can’t, and step forward into the new year with a heart that’s open and resolved.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 39 now, and I've never saved for retirement. I have a job where I'm able to, but I don't know where to start. I have a lot of money lying around, but my company doesn't offer a 401(k) or anything like that. What should I do to start saving for retirement?I've been using a credit card to charge our monthly groceries and then paying it off to earn travel rewards points. Is this a good approach, or should I just take the money directly from our budget instead of charging the groceries?We've been trying to sell our house for 11 months, but the market has slowed down. My wife wonders if we should rent out our house, move to a new place, and then sell it later when the market improves. What do you think about that plan?I have a small pension that would be taxable if I took the lump sum. I could roll it to an IRA or take the $200 per month annuity. I don't need the money now, so what's the wisest financial decision—take the lump sum, roll it to an IRA, or take the annuity payments?We

British philosopher G.K. Chesterton once said, “I know as much about the future as you do, which is nothing.” Only God knows the future, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t plan for it. Mark Biller is here today to help you do that. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. Today, we’ll cover some key takeaways from Sound Mind Investing’s recent article, “Your 10 Most Important Financial Moves for 2025,” which offers over 60 actionable tips across six categories. Let’s dive into some highlights to help you plan your next year's top financial moves.1. Put First Things First: Aligning Finances with FaithDevelop a Financial Plan: A solid plan is essential for managing God’s resources well. As Luke 19:13 reminds us, faithful stewards are called to “put this money to work until I come back.”Build an Eternity Portfolio: Once your family’s needs are met, embrace “exponential generosity.” As your income grows, increase your giving percentage, laying up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:20).2. Strengthen Your Financial FoundationCreate a Workable Budget: A budget—think of it as a “spending plan”—is foundational. Learn from past mistakes and focus on spending less and saving more through automated savings or retirement account contributions.Spend Less, Save More: Small changes today can bring significant long-term benefits. Adjust your spending habits to prioritize your future.3. Develop Your Investing PlanCreate a Long-Term Investing Strategy: Just as a budget helps manage day-to-day finances, an investing plan guides long-term success. Allocate appropriately and avoid making rash decisions based on political or economic changes.Stay Informed About Trends: Technological advancements, economic policies, and market changes can impact investments. Educate yourself on these trends without succumbing to speculation.4. Broaden Your PortfolioExpand Your Knowledge: Understand how global trends like AI and interest rate shifts may influence your portfolio. SMI offers resources to help navigate these complexities while maintaining a long-term focus.5. Prepare for RetirementPlan for Social Security: Deciding when to claim Social Security benefits is crucial. For most, waiting until full retirement age or later can yield greater financial benefits.Understand Medicare Coverage: Don’t assume Medicare will cover all your retirement healthcare needs. Research Medigap or Medicare Advantage plans and consider alternatives like Christian Healthcare Ministries.6. Miscellaneous Must-DosStart Your Kids on Investing: Encourage young people to invest early. Fractional-share purchases and no-commission trades make it easier than ever to build long-term financial habits.Review Estate Plans: Ensure your will, power of attorney, and healthcare directives are up-to-date. Life changes and legal updates warrant a review every five years.Protect Against Tax Identity Theft: To prevent fraudulent filings, safeguard your Social Security number by requesting an IRS Identity Protection PIN.Bonus Tips for 2025Treasure Each Day: Life is fleeting—embrace each day as a gift and manage God’s blessings wisely.Deepen Your Prayer Life: Discerning God’s voice leads to better financial decisions rooted in faith.Manage Finances as a Team: For married couples, working together on finances can combine strengths and reduce weaknesses.As 2025 approaches, remember that your financial success hinges more on your choices than external circumstances. Faithful stewardship not only secures your financial future but also aligns your resources with God’s purposes. May you aim to hear these words in Matthew 25:21: “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!”For the complete list of financial moves and additional resources, visit SoundMindInvesting.org.By following these principles, you can make 2025 a year of financial health and faithfulness.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I recently retired and have a 401(k) with about $47,000 in it. I don't know what to do with this money. I'd like to get some advice from a Christian perspective on how to best manage and invest this 401(k) now that I'm retired.Resources Mentioned:Understanding Reverse: Simplifying the Reverse Mortgage by Dan HultquistMoney and Marriage God's Way by Howard DaytonMovement MortgageLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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 ste

From Genesis to Revelation, generosity is a resounding theme in the Bible. The ultimate example of this is captured in Romans 6:23:“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”As children of a generous God, Christians are called to reflect His generosity in their lives. Let’s explore the biblical foundation of generosity, its spiritual significance, and some timeless wisdom from godly leaders to inspire you on your journey.The Biblical Foundation of GenerosityThe Bible paints a vivid picture of what it means to live generously:Sharing What We Have: Jesus instructed His followers, saying, “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise” (Luke 3:10–11).Giving Cheerfully: The Apostle Paul teaches that generosity should come from the heart: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).Reflecting God’s Character: Psalm 112 reveals that generosity is more than an action—it’s a reflection of righteousness and godly character.Generosity is a response to God’s abundant grace flowing from a heart transformed by His love.Wisdom on Generosity: 10 Timeless QuotesThroughout history, men and women of faith have offered profound insights into the spiritual significance of generosity. Here are ten inspiring quotes to challenge and encourage you:1. C.S. Lewis“I do not believe one can settle how much we ought to give. I am afraid the only safe rule is to give more than we can spare.”2. John Wesley“Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.”3. A.W. Tozer“Any temporal possession can be turned into everlasting wealth…Whatever is given to Christ is immediately touched with immortality.”4. Billy Graham“Tell me what you think about money, and I will tell you what you think about God, for these two are closely related. A man’s heart is closer to his wallet than anything else.”5. Chip Ingram“Giving is an action; generosity is a matter of the heart. You can give and not be generous, but you can’t be generous without giving.”6. Randy Alcorn“Giving affirms Christ’s lordship. It dethrones me and exalts Him.”7. Saint Augustine of Hippo“Charity is a virtue which…when our affections are perfectly ordered…unites us to God…for by it we love Him.”8. Amy Carmichael“You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving.”9. J.I. Packer“The measure of all love is its giving. The measure of the love of God is the cross of Christ.”10. Jesus Christ“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Luke 6:38).Living Generously: A Call to ActionGenerosity is not just about sharing wealth—it’s about trusting God to meet our needs as we meet the needs of others. It’s an act of worship and a reflection of God’s love in our lives.We give because God first gave to us—our life, salvation, and every blessing we enjoy. Let these biblical truths and timeless quotes inspire you to live generously, not out of obligation but from a heart filled with gratitude.May your generosity glorify God and bless others, transforming ordinary possessions into eternal treasures.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm a newlywed, expecting our first child. We've been looking to buy a house. Would you recommend going through a mortgage broker or directly through a bank?I'm considering a reverse mortgage. Are they good or bad? What are some of the pitfalls?Resources Mentioned:Understanding Reverse: Simplifying the Reverse Mortgage by Dan HultquistMoney and Marriage God's Way by Howard DaytonMovement MortgageLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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.