Faith & Finance

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.

They say that money is a good servant but a terrible master—especially when it comes to debt.Surveys show that taking on debt ranks near the top of the list of financial regrets. Debt can make profound changes in your life and have spiritual consequences. Sharon Epps joins us to talk about that 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.Four Key Uses of Money: Live, Give, Owe, and GrowMany of us face the challenge of managing debt, but approaching it with biblical principles can transform the way we handle our finances.To help simplify money management, we can divide our finances into four categories: Live, Give, Owe, and Grow. These categories are like slices of a pie. Since the pie is limited, enlarging one slice means another must shrink. This analogy helps us view money as a finite resource that requires intentional stewardship. Today, we’ll focus on the "Owe" slice—debt—and explore biblical principles related to it.What Does the Bible Say About Debt?Contrary to popular belief, the Bible does not say that borrowing money is inherently sinful. However, debt is described as enslaving and can negatively impact relationships and decision-making. Proverbs 22:7 warns, “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.” While debt isn’t labeled evil, its consequences make it something to approach cautiously.Biblical Principles for Handling DebtSharon highlighted three key principles to guide believers in managing debt:1. Repay What You BorrowPsalm 37:21 teaches, “The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously.” This verse underscores the importance of integrity in financial commitments. Paying back what we owe reflects God’s righteousness in our lives.2. Free Yourself from Debt QuicklyProverbs 22:7 reminds us of the dangers of debt, urging us to escape its grip as soon as possible. Carrying debt limits our freedom and creates unnecessary burdens.3. Serve God, Not MoneyJesus’ words in Matthew 6:24—“No one can serve two masters”—remind us that our ultimate allegiance should be to God. Debt can become a competing “master” if we’re not careful, dictating our decisions and priorities.Practical Steps for Tackling DebtIf you’re struggling with debt, here are three actionable steps Sharon recommends:1. PrayBegin by committing your financial challenges to God. Align your heart with His will and ask for His guidance and provision.2. Save MoneyIt might seem counterintuitive to focus on debt, but it’s essential to build an emergency fund—at least $1,000. This "debt insurance" prevents you from falling back into debt when unexpected expenses arise.3. Pay Off Consumer Debt FirstPrioritize paying off credit card and consumer debt. If you feel overwhelmed, seek help from organizations like Christian Credit Counselors, who can help you lower interest rates and accelerate debt repayment. Their debt management programs can help you pay off debt up to 80% faster by reducing interest rates. Visit Christian Credit Counselors to learn more.Managing debt wisely is about more than just financial health; it’s about aligning our lives with God’s principles. By following biblical guidance, we can experience the freedom to live, give, and serve as God intended.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm wondering how I can ensure I'm working with a financial advisor who is a fiduciary and puts my needs first rather than just pushing their own products and limited options.I have a 13-year-old son who has been making money doing yard work and lawn care. He now has over $2,000 saved and keeps asking me where he should invest this money. What would be the best place for a young teen to start investing and saving this money?I'm in the process of selling a half-interest in a farm that I inherited from my mother, who passed away about a year ago. I don't know how the capital gains tax works in this situation. Since the farm has been in the family for 40 years, how does that affect the capital gains tax I'll owe when I sell it?I drive a charter bus for a living, and I'm concerned about personal liability if I get into an accident on the job. What kind of insurance coverage should I seek to protect my assets in such a situation?Resources Mentioned:Charles Schwab | Fidelity | Betterment | Acorns | StashChristian 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

India has one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. It’s also a world leader in…human trafficking.Human trafficking is a problem in many countries around the world, but perhaps nowhere more than in India. David Harms is here today to share some hope-filled stories about an organization that’s changing the lives of young women and children in India.David Harms has devoted nearly a decade of ministry to the work of India Partners, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. With over 35 years of experience in rescuing victims of human trafficking, India Partners continues to make a profound impact on the lives of the most vulnerable.The Human Trafficking Epidemic in IndiaIndia is home to one of the world's fastest-growing economies, but it also faces a devastating crisis—human trafficking. Millions of underage girls are trafficked and sold, often tricked into exploitative situations under the guise of finding work. In the red light districts of Mumbai alone, an estimated 200,000 to 300,000 underage girls are trapped in this horrific trade.Amidst this darkness, the nonprofit organization India Partners is working tirelessly to rescue these young women and children. Their social workers, described as "missionaries," venture into the red-light districts daily to befriend the girls and show them a way out. Once rescued, the girls are brought to India Partners' safe houses, where the true work of transformation begins.In the safe houses, the girls receive trauma counseling, participate in daily devotions, and immerse themselves in Scripture. This holistic approach, combining time and the gospel, is crucial for their healing and restoration. As the girls come to know Jesus, they experience the deep healing that only He can provide after the unimaginable abuse they've endured.Ongoing Challenges and Financial NeedsWhile India Partners' work is bringing hope and restoration, it is not without its challenges. The team faces spiritual warfare and persecution as they continue to lift up the name of Jesus. There is also a pressing financial need to expand their safe house operations and provide long-term care for the girls they rescue.By partnering with India Partners, you can be a part of this life-changing work. Your financial support can underwrite the care of one girl for as little as $8.89 per day, providing her with private Christian schooling, medical attention, trauma counseling, and more. Join us in praying for the protection and strength of the India Partners team, and consider how you can contribute to rescuing and restoring these precious lives. To learn more about how you can partner with this incredible organization, go to IndiaPartners.org/Faith. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:We're looking into pre-planning our funeral arrangements. How do you start that, and what do you have to look out for? There are always false things out there, and I wanted to know if you had any advice on that.My wife has a beneficiary IRA worth $108,000, and she's always been required to take a distribution on it. What is the difference between a beneficiary IRA and a conventional IRA, especially regarding how you can manage it? And I'll say she turns 62 in November—does that change anything?Resources Mentioned:India PartnersLook 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 there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.” - Luke 2:8-14That’s from the Christmas Story in Luke, Chapter 2. The angels announce the coming of the Savior to a group of shepherds. It sounds simple enough…but there’s more to the story. Jerry Bowyer joins us to talk about it.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.” You can also read his insightful columns for World News Group. Why Shepherds?When the angels announced Jesus’ birth, their audience wasn’t kings or scholars but shepherds. Often portrayed as social outcasts historically, shepherds were viewed negatively because their flocks could wander onto others’ property, leading to accusations of theft. Despite this reputation, shepherds played a crucial role in the temple system, raising sheep for sacrifices.Bethlehem, where Jesus was born, was a hub for breeding sacrificial lambs. Archaeological evidence supports this, highlighting structures like the Migdal Eder (Tower of the Flock), where unblemished lambs were identified for temple sacrifices. This foreshadows Jesus’ role as the ultimate Lamb of God, born in the city that prepared lambs for sacrifice.Mary’s Economic PhilosophyMary’s Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) reveals her economic worldview. In this poetic expression of praise, she celebrates God’s justice: the rich are sent away empty, and the poor are filled. These are the socio-economic dynamics at play when Mary visits Elizabeth in Judea, a wealthier and more hierarchical society compared to Galilee. Elizabeth’s high status contrasts with Mary’s humility, yet Elizabeth honors Mary, signaling a reversal of societal norms.Interestingly, Mary’s upbringing near Sephoris, the financial capital of Galilee, likely exposed her to sophisticated cultural and economic ideas. This blend of humility and intellect influenced her son, Jesus, whose teachings often echoed themes from her Magnificat.Herod’s Fear and the Temple SystemThe birth of Jesus didn’t just bring joy; it also struck fear into the hearts of the ruling class, especially King Herod. He and the temple elites understood the revolutionary implications of Jesus’ arrival. The Messiah’s mission to bring justice threatened their corrupt economic system, which exploited the poor through practices like unfair money-changing in the temple.Herod’s fear highlights the broader conflict between two kingdoms: one driven by greed and oppression and the other by justice and generosity. This tension culminates in Jesus’ cleansing of the temple, an act that symbolized the dismantling of a corrupt economic system.The Magi and the Two TemplesThe gifts of the Magi—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—mirror offerings described in the Torah for the temple. The gospels contrast two “temples”: the physical temple, corrupted by greed, and Jesus himself, the true temple who provides for the needy. This theme of “the Maker versus the Takers” runs throughout the gospels, illustrating the stark difference between God’s economy and human systems of exploitation.Economics in God’s PlanThe Nativity story profoundly reminds us that God’s master plan includes economics. From shepherds to Mary’s Magnificat and from Herod’s fear to the Magi’s gifts, every detail points to God’s concern for justice, generosity, and the redemption of all aspects of life—including money. This Christmas, as you reflect on the birth of Christ, consider how God’s kingdom calls us to live with integrity, humility, and a heart for justice in every area of life.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband plans to wait until full retirement age to take Social Security. I will take spousal benefits, but I'll only be 65 when he retires. Can I take spousal benefits, then? Or will I have to wait until my full retirement age?I'm 35 and returning to work part-time at my kids' school. We have $600,000 saved for retirement, max out my husband's 401(k), and do a backdoor Roth IRA. I have to contribute 10% to OPERS. Should I invest in their deferred comp option with about $800 per month, or is there something else you'd recommend?We have a HELOC that matures a couple of years after our mortgage is paid off. The bank said it's best to keep the HELOC open to safeguard against potential fraud. Should I follow their advice and keep the HELOC open, or is this just the bank trying to get us to spend more money?Resources Mentioned:The Maker Versus the Takers: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics by Jerry BowyerLook 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 F

Have you started working on your New Year’s resolutions yet? Are you including your investing decisions in the mix?A New Year always gives you the chance to make improvements, especially with finances. Cole Pearson is here today to talk about starting 2025 strong with values-based investing.Cole Pearson is the President of Investment Solutions at OneAscent, a family of companies seeking to help people align their investments with their Christian values. OneAscent is also an underwriter of Faith & Finance. What Is Values-Based Investing?Values-based investing is the practice of deploying financial resources in a way that aligns with a set of values or convictions, with the expectation of generating a profit. At OneAscent, values not only inspire why we invest but also guide how we invest. For Christians, this perspective is rooted in Psalm 24:1, which states, “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof.”As stewards of God’s creation, Christians have a responsibility to consider the impact of their investments. Businesses have a powerful influence on the world, and as investors, we should discern whether the companies we support bring harm or blessing to the people and places they touch.Five Steps for Values-Based InvestingHere are five essential steps Christians should consider when making investment decisions. These steps provide a framework for aligning finances with faith and values.1. Milestones: Understanding Your Financial LifeThe first step is identifying what’s happening in your financial life today. Life events—such as marriage, career changes, health issues, or asset purchases—impact your finances and should inform your planning. OneAscent offers a checklist covering key areas like:Marriage & FamilyCareerHealthAssets & LiabilitiesGenerosityClarifying your milestones ensures that your financial decisions are relevant and purposeful.2. Perspectives: Understanding Your Relationship with MoneyEveryday interactions with money—spending, saving, investing, and giving—reveal our natural tendencies. Understanding how God has wired us to relate to money helps foster healthy communication, especially in relationships.For example, your natural tendencies may lean toward saving and investing, while your spouse may lean toward spending and giving. Recognizing these perspectives provides a common language for dialogue and collaboration, setting the stage for the next step.3. Priorities: Identifying What Matters MostIt’s essential to define and prioritize your financial goals. OneAscent uses a fun assessment to help individuals and families identify their top priorities, such as:Leaving a legacyRemoving burdens from familyGiving generouslyDevoting time to loved onesFor families, both spouses complete the assessment individually before working together to identify shared priorities. This clarity creates a strong foundation for future financial decisions.4. Values: Ensuring Your Portfolio Aligns with Your BeliefsStep four focuses on aligning investments with your values. This means identifying companies to avoid if their practices or products cause harm and seeking opportunities to invest in businesses that bless the communities they serve.We are going to be investing somewhere. What types of companies do we want to own? How can we leverage our capital to promote a positive impact? OneAscent’s tools can help you analyze and align your portfolio with your values.5. Generosity: Reflecting God’s CharacterGenerosity is the natural outcome of faithful stewardship. It allows us to reflect God’s generosity by using our resources to address needs and solve problems that God has placed on our hearts. Here are some thought-provoking questions to ask yourself as you reflect on this:How do you approach stewardship intentionally?What does generosity look like for your family?What problems in the world has God called you to address?A Call to Align Your InvestmentsValues-based investing is more than a financial strategy; it’s a way to live out your faith. By following these five steps—Milestones, Perspectives, Priorities, Values, and Generosity—you can ensure your financial decisions honor God and bless others.For more information on values-based investing, visit OneAscent.com and click “Analyze My Investments.”On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I just started a new job. I'm 55 years old, and my company is finally offering a 401(k) match with different investment tiers to choose from—conservative, moderate, and aggressive. As a 55-year-old woman, what investment tier should I choose for my 401(k)?When a married couple invests in a car, is it better to put the loan in one person's name or both people's names? And why would that be the better approach?Resources Mentioned:OneAscentLook 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 Remem

Hey, open enrollment ends in just a few days—have you decided on a new health insurance plan yet? If not, you might not have to. What if there was another way—a biblical solution for meeting your healthcare costs? Let’s explore medical cost sharing, a faith-based alternative to traditional health insurance that could save you hundreds of dollars a month.What Is Medical Cost Sharing?Medical cost sharing is a cooperative approach to healthcare expenses rooted in biblical principles. It’s an alternative to traditional health insurance in which members share each other's medical costs. The concept is inspired by Galatians 6:2, “Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”One of the pioneers in this space is Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), the oldest organization in the medical cost-sharing space. Since 1981, CHM has enabled members to share nearly $11 billion in medical expenses. It’s a nonprofit organization that operates on biblical stewardship, focusing on members’ needs rather than profits.How Does Medical Cost Sharing Work?Instead of paying insurance premiums, members contribute a monthly share amount based on the plan they choose. This amount is typically much lower than traditional insurance premiums. Here’s why:Self-Pay Model: CHM members are considered “self-pay” by healthcare providers, which often reduces costs significantly.Reimbursement System: Members submit bills for covered medical services and are reimbursed from the shared pool of funds.For example, under CHM’s Bronze plan, the highest annual personal responsibility cost is $6,000 per person—a potentially lower-cost option compared to the high deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums of many insurance plans in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace.Key Advantages of Medical Cost-Sharing1. Cost SavingsCHM’s nonprofit model focuses on its members rather than shareholders, allowing more resources to be allocated toward medical needs. This often makes it a more affordable option compared to traditional health insurance.2. Freedom of ChoiceUnlike traditional insurance, which often restricts members to a network of providers, medical cost-sharing has no networks. Members can visit any doctor or facility of their choice, and if the service is covered, they’ll be reimbursed.3. PortabilityMedical cost sharing is portable, meaning your membership stays with you regardless of job changes or life transitions. Whether you’re starting your own business or switching careers, you don’t lose coverage.4. Community and PrayerBy joining CHM, you become part of a community of believers who support each other through prayer and encouragement. CHM’s customer support team often prays with members, offering compassion and spiritual support during difficult times.5. Lower Overhead and Greater ControlCHM’s lower administrative costs translate into lower costs for members. Additionally, with no insurance company acting as a middleman, members work directly with medical providers to set up treatment plans and payment arrangements.Why Consider Medical Cost Sharing?Health insurance companies can be a blessing, especially for catastrophic illnesses, but they’re also large bureaucracies heavily regulated by the government. Medical cost sharing avoids many of these challenges, offering a simpler, more faith-focused approach to healthcare.If you’ve already signed up for health insurance for 2025 but are now considering medical cost sharing, you may still be able to cancel your insurance without penalty.To explore how medical cost sharing can be a biblical solution to healthcare costs, visit CHMinistries.org. You’ll find detailed information about plans, benefits, and how to join this faith-based community. Don’t miss this opportunity to align your healthcare decisions with your values.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband and I are purchasing term life insurance, and the question has come up—do we make each other the primary beneficiary, with our children as the contingent beneficiaries? We have a blended family, and three of our kids are already grown; two are married, while three are still in the house and getting ready to launch into the world as teenagers.I want some information on savings bonds. I have been to my bank and called my credit union, but neither one deals in savings bonds. I've got a grandson who's turning one, and I thought that might be a good birthday present for him in the future. But I just don't know where to go or what to do to purchase savings bonds for him.We recently sold our house for a good profit, and we're wondering how to tithe on it. Do we tithe on the full amount we received or only on what goes above the initial price and interest we paid?I have a 401(k), and I'd like to know how I can invest according to my values and the available options. The only options seem to be big companies that I'd rather not invest in. Do you have any suggestions?I was thinking of buying these two single-family homes

In Mark 10:7, Jesus tells us, “A man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” But does “becoming one” extend to the checkbook? Should husbands and wives have joint or separate bank accounts? Let’s explore this question and see if the Bible says anything about it. What Does the Bible Say About Joint Finances?The Bible doesn’t specifically address joint or separate bank accounts, as their banking looked much different than our modern system today. However, Scripture provides timeless principles that guide financial unity in marriage:1. Marriage Is About OnenessIn Mark 10, Jesus emphasizes that marriage involves two becoming one. While spouses remain individuals, marriage is a partnership requiring trust, openness, and communication—qualities that are essential for managing finances together.2. Promote Transparency and TrustJoint accounts can foster financial transparency and eliminate the temptation for hidden spending. They encourage couples to avoid a “mine” and “yours” mentality, aligning with the biblical principle of unity.3. Avoid Division in Financial ManagementSeparate accounts can complicate money management. For example, you might face cash flow issues if one account is short while the other has surplus funds. Joint accounts simplify tracking expenses and meeting obligations, reducing potential stress.Why Financial Unity MattersSome couples argue that one spouse might handle the grocery budget while the other manages larger financial decisions through separate accounts. However, this approach can lead to problems:Lack of Awareness: One spouse may remain uninformed about the family’s overall financial health, creating difficulties if something happens to the other. Missed Communication Opportunities: Regular money conversations build mutual understanding and accountability, ensuring both spouses are on the same page.Scripture underscores the importance of unity in decision-making. Amos 3:3 asks, “Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?” Financial unity reflects God’s design for marriage as a partnership built on trust and shared goals.Practical Steps for Financial UnityIf you’re transitioning to joint accounts or considering how to manage money as a couple better, here are some tips:1. Start a Monthly Money DateSet aside time to review your budget, discuss goals, and address concerns. These “money dates” keep communication open and help you align your priorities.2. Build an Emergency Fund TogetherA shared emergency fund protects your family from financial shocks and reinforces your commitment to mutual goals. Aim for three to six months’ worth of expenses.3. Use Tools to Simplify BudgetingTools like the FaithFi App can help couples manage finances collaboratively, offering transparency and clarity about income, spending, and saving.Biblical Wisdom for Financial OnenessGod’s Word offers timeless wisdom for every aspect of marriage, including finances. Ephesians 5:21 instructs, “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” This mutual submission applies to all areas of marriage, including how you manage God’s resources.By embracing financial unity, couples reflect the oneness God intends for marriage. Whether through joint accounts, frequent money conversations, or shared goals, striving for unity in finances strengthens both your marriage and your walk with Christ.As you consider whether to have joint or separate bank accounts, remember that the goal is unity—not just in finances but in every area of your marriage. Take time to pray, communicate openly, and align your financial decisions with biblical principles. Together, you can honor God and steward His resources wisely.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've been paying about $100 monthly for life insurance for a few years. Is it really necessary? What's the benefit of it?I appreciate your show and advice on Certified Kingdom Advisors (CKAs). Thanks to a CKA, I could retire at 54 and work full-time for a ministry that I am very passionate about. They did more for me than any other financial professionals. Your advice on CKAs is something listeners need to take seriously.I'm struggling to make up the money I lost during the three months I had to take off work due to some severe health issues I was dealing with back in April. I know that money is gone, and I won't be able to make it up, even with overtime. I'm having difficulty accepting that and moving forward, even though God provided for us during that time, and we didn't miss any payments.We have an investment property that we've paid off completely. We're both 55 years old and debating whether to keep or sell the property and roll the proceeds into a retirement plan since that's all we have for our retirement. Can we roll over the investment property into a retirement plan to avoid taxes?Resources Mentioned:Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study

"From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked." - Luke 12:48When the housing market collapsed in 2008, more than 10 million Americans experienced crashing home values and foreclosures. But out of that financial chaos, a new company arose with a mission to do things differently. Harlan Accola joins us today to talk about it.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. A Vision Born in CrisisMovement Mortgage stands out in the world of residential lending for more than its exceptional service. Founded during the tumultuous 2008 housing crisis, this company has defied the odds, growing into one of the largest mortgage providers in the nation. With financial institutions collapsing and the housing market in turmoil, Casey Crawford, a former NFL player, saw an opportunity to do things differently. Together with mentor Toby Harris, Casey envisioned a company that would not only provide world-class mortgage services but also glorify God and give back to communities. This bold vision became the bedrock of Movement Mortgage.Faith at the CoreCasey Crawford’s faith played a pivotal role in shaping the mission of Movement Mortgage. Having witnessed poverty and systemic challenges across the nation, Casey felt called to address the needs of the disadvantaged. Inspired by the legacy of Christians historically building hospitals and schools, he sought to create a company that would embody these values in modern times. Movement Mortgage was designed to be more than a business—it was a vehicle to serve “the least of these” and bring hope to struggling communities.Innovative Programs with PurposeFrom the beginning, Movement Mortgage has been about more than profits:Love Works Program: Employees contribute to a fund to assist colleagues in times of need, fostering a culture of mutual support. Grace Works Grants: These grants provide resources to hundreds of organizations nationwide, impacting local communities directly.Despite its unique mission, Movement’s success is rooted in its ability to deliver exceptional service. By prioritizing faster, better, and more efficient mortgage processes, Movement has earned trust and loyalty from clients and industry professionals alike. This commitment to excellence has attracted top talent and allowed the company to thrive.Transforming Lives Through the Movement FoundationCentral to Movement’s impact is the Movement Foundation, which channels 50% of the company’s profits into charitable initiatives. This unprecedented commitment has resulted in $377 million given to transformative causes worldwide. Some key initiatives include:Movement Schools: Seven charter schools in underserved areas provide free, high-quality education. These schools aim to break cycles of poverty by equipping children and families with resources for success. Disaster Relief: Whether it’s distributing water to homeless populations during heatwaves or aiding hurricane recovery efforts, Movement responds to crises with compassion and action. Global Outreach: From clean water projects in Uganda to combating sex trafficking in Thailand, the Movement Foundation’s global reach demonstrates its commitment to being the hands and feet of Jesus.Movement Mortgage’s impact extends beyond financial transactions. Employees are encouraged to participate in vision trips and engage with the communities they serve. These experiences not only foster personal growth but also bring tangible hope to those in need. By aligning profits with purpose, Movement has cultivated a team united by a shared mission.Why Movement Mortgage?Choosing Movement Mortgage means more than securing a home loan. It’s an opportunity to contribute to life-changing work, both locally and globally. Each mortgage funds efforts to combat poverty, provide education, and restore dignity to vulnerable populations.Movement Mortgage embodies the idea that business can be a force for good. With its unwavering commitment to excellence and dedication to advancing God’s Kingdom, Movement is redefining what it means to lead with faith in the marketplace.To discover how Movement Mortgage can serve your home financing needs while supporting impactful initiatives, visit movement.com/faith.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 61 years old and currently drive about a 2-hour round-trip to work. We will sell our house and move closer to work, church, and the grandkids. Would it make more sense for us to purchase another home or maybe just rent instead?I have a $250,000 settlement coming in, and I understand I need to speak to a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA). But in the short term, besides my giving to the church, where should I park that money to try to get some short-term gains?Resources Mentione

“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the sinner's wealth is laid up for the righteous.” - Proverbs 13:22God’s Word is clear that faithful stewards should leave an inheritance for future generations. That inheritance doesn’t have to be money. Passing along biblical principles such as generosity to grandkids, well, that’s priceless. Ron Blue joins us to talk about it.Ron Blue is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, including Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives.More Than Money: The Heart of GenerosityGrandparents have a unique opportunity to model and teach generosity to their grandchildren. Generosity is about much more than giving money. Money is just a tool we can use to bless others and make the world a better place.When taught early, generosity can break the grip of materialism and shape how children view and manage money for a lifetime. By demonstrating that financial success involves not just acquiring wealth but sharing it, grandparents can instill values that reflect God’s Kingdom.Starting the ConversationThe best way to teach generosity is to connect it to core Christian values like love, stewardship, compassion, and service. Ron Blue suggests beginning with young grandchildren by reading Christian children’s books that highlight stories of generosity.From there, move to practical activities:Set aside money to give to the grandchildren, and let them choose the charity.Engage in community service together, such as volunteering at a soup kitchen or helping a neighbor in need.Discuss how giving often involves sacrifice, such as donating toys to children in homeless shelters. Experiencing the joy of giving firsthand can leave a lasting impression.These activities help children see that generosity isn’t just a concept—it’s an actionable way to reflect Christ’s love.Generosity in Everyday LifeGrandparents can incorporate lessons about generosity into everyday life by encouraging grandchildren to:Donate part of their birthday or allowance money to a cause they care about.Participate in family conversations about budgeting for spending, saving, and giving.Volunteer for local community projects together.These experiences not only teach the importance of generosity but also demonstrate that giving is a planned and intentional part of the Christian walk.Generosity and Legacy PlanningMany grandparents focus on leaving a financial legacy, but weaving generosity into their estate planning is even more critical. Some ways to do this include:Allocating part of their estate for charitable giving.Setting up a Giving Fund through organizations like the National Christian Foundation and involving grandchildren in decisions about where the funds should go.These steps ensure that generosity remains a central value in the family’s legacy.The Long-Term ImpactTeaching grandchildren about generosity has profound long-term effects. It helps them avoid the chains of materialism and be more faithful stewards of God’s resources. By modeling and encouraging generosity, grandparents can leave a lasting legacy that impacts their family and furthers God’s Kingdom.Grandparents, you have an incredible role to play in shaping your grandchildren’s values and faith. Start small, be intentional, and watch as your legacy of generosity grows in the hearts of your family.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a 403(b) that's earning 3% interest. I'm 72 and will soon need to start taking the required minimum distributions. Since I have yet to pay taxes on this money, what's the best way to handle the withdrawals to minimize the taxation? Should I put it in a savings account or roll it into an IRA?I have a double-wide manufactured home with a 9.4% interest rate mortgage. How can I upgrade the house to increase its value and get a lower interest rate through refinancing? We're living paycheck-to-paycheck with no savings.I've been a Christian for 40 years, and my wife and I have always tithed, even when money was tight. In the last couple of years, God has provided an income stream we never thought possible, proving His faithfulness to us. We now have resources we never dreamed of having.Resources Mentioned:Samaritan’s Purse: Operation Christmas ChildLook 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 u

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” - 2 Corinthians 8:9That verse is among the most cited on the subject of generosity…and for good reason. It links generosity with the Gospel. Dr. Nathan Harris joins us to make that connection even stronger.Dr. Nathan Harris is Vice President for Strategic Initiatives at the University of Mobile in Mobile, Alabama. He is also the author of A Short Guide to Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace.What Is Gospel Generosity?Gospel generosity is giving rooted in the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ. Generosity is not merely a virtue for the Christian life but a cheerful disposition that springs forth from the gospel. This kind of generosity arises from new life in Christ, is empowered by the Holy Spirit, and reflects the Father’s model of grace throughout creation.At its core, gospel generosity isn’t just about giving—it’s about proclaiming and portraying Christ’s saving work in our lives. It signifies a radical transformation of a believer’s heart and mind, leading to joyful stewardship of resources in service to God’s kingdom.Beyond the Tithe: A Higher CallingOne of the most debated topics surrounding generosity is the concept of tithing. Are Christians called to tithe, or is there a greater expectation?While tithing—giving 10%—is not explicitly required for Christians, the gospel calls us to something far greater. We aren’t obligated to give; instead, Christians have an incredible gospel opportunity. We are called to live generously, humbly, selflessly, and with the kingdom of God in mind.This perspective reframes giving not as a rule to follow but as an act of grace and worship, rooted in gratitude for what Christ has done.How the Gospel Transforms Our View of MoneyThe gospel transforms our hearts and minds and revolutionizes how we approach money and stewardship. Martin Luther once said:“There are three conversions in one’s life—the conversion of the heart, the mind, and the pocketbook.”When we encounter Christ, our hearts are filled with affection for Him, and our minds are set on heavenly things. However, many Christians struggle to surrender their finances to God fully. You can’t hold on to Christ while also holding on to your money.A heart transformed by the gospel desires to honor Christ above wealth. A mind renewed by the gospel prioritizes kingdom values over worldly ones. This transformation shapes every aspect of our financial lives, from earning and saving to spending and giving.Living as Stewards of God’s ResourcesWhen our hearts and minds are fully surrendered to Christ, our finances naturally follow. Giving becomes not just an obligation but an act of worship and a reflection of the gospel’s transforming power.To explore these ideas further, check out Dr. Nathan Harris’s book, A Short Guide to Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace. This concise guide offers biblical wisdom and practical insights into living a life of joyful, gospel-rooted generosity.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:When I went to the bank, they offered me a HELOC (home equity line of credit) with no fees. I don't need it, but I noticed that the credit score they pulled for me was significantly different from the score I see when I check my credit reports online. Why is there such a big difference between the score the bank pulled and the scores I see from consumer credit reporting services?I have about four years left on a 2.9% mortgage with $17,000 remaining. Should I sell some of my gold, which is currently valued at around $2,700 per ounce, to pay off the mortgage entirely and become debt-free? What do you think about that?I used to be into partying and drugs, even selling drugs, which landed me in prison. On September 10, 2021, I gave my life to Jesus Christ, and now I’m clean, sober, and working to rebuild my finances. I have some debts in collections, including a repossessed auto loan, medical bills, and an overdraft. I’m unsure of the exact amounts, but I want to consolidate and start paying them off to honor those debts and move forward. What’s the best way to start?I've received calls from my current lender and others about refinancing my mortgage. Last month, I tried applying at a different bank, but they said my credit score needed to be higher. My current interest rate is 7.25%. What are your thoughts on whether I should refinance or wait until my credit score improves?Resources Mentioned:A Short Guide to Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace by Dr. Nathan HarrisChristian 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

Did you know that as a believer in Jesus, you already have what it takes to make wise financial decisions? The Bible tells us that Christians “have the mind of Christ.” But what does this mean for managing money and possessions? Let’s explore how adopting Jesus’ perspective can transform our financial decisions and bring us closer to God’s purpose for our lives.Understanding the Mind of ChristHaving the mind of Christ means seeing the world—and our finances—through Jesus’ perspective. As Christians, we aim to serve, think, and love like Him in every area of life, including how we handle money. One practical way to apply this is by asking, “What would Jesus do in this financial situation?”The Bible emphasizes the vastness of God’s wisdom. Isaiah 40:13 reminds us of His unmatched understanding:“Who can fathom the Spirit of the Lord or instruct the Lord as his counselor?”Yet in 1 Corinthians 2:16, Paul tells us something remarkable:“But we have the mind of Christ.”Through Jesus, we’re no longer limited to worldly thinking. Instead, we’re empowered to manage our resources with godly wisdom, aligning our financial decisions with His eternal purposes.Bridging the Gap: Jesus as Our GuideSo, how do we gain this wisdom? The answer lies in Jesus, who bridges the gap between our limited understanding and God’s perfect knowledge. Jesus came to restore us to God and bring clarity to the confusion caused by sin.When we follow Jesus and rely on the Holy Spirit, we gain a clearer understanding of God’s plan for our lives—including how to steward our money. This perspective frees us from the worldly mindset that often prioritizes wealth and possessions over faith and trust in God.It’s easy to slip back into managing money with a “worldly mind,” focusing on solving problems or planning for the future without seeking God’s perspective. When we separate our finances from our faith, we risk missing the opportunity to honor God in this crucial area of life.God cares about every part of our lives, including how we earn, spend, save, and give. He invites us to trust Him fully and integrate our financial decisions into our relationship with Him.Growing in Relationship with GodTo embrace the mind of Christ, we must deepen our relationship with God. In John 14:11, Jesus said:“I am in the Father, and the Father is in me.”Jesus modeled reliance on God’s wisdom and strength, and the same is true for us. Drawing closer to Him gives us the guidance and resilience needed to make godly financial decisions.This doesn’t mean financial challenges will disappear, but it does mean we’re not alone. God is actively working in and through us. As 2 Corinthians 10:5 reminds us:“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”Living with the Mind of Christ in FinancesWhat does it look like to manage finances with the mind of Christ? Here are three key principles:Align Your Attitudes and Actions with Christ—Seek to honor God in every financial decision.Rely on God’s Strength—Trust His guidance when faced with financial challenges or temptations.Resist Worldly Influences—Stand firm against cultural pressures that prioritize money over faith.Grace in the JourneyNone of us will get it right every time. Mistakes and setbacks are part of the journey. But the good news is that God’s grace is sufficient. As 1 John 1:9 assures us:“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”When we stumble, let it be an opportunity to draw closer to God and realign our finances with His will. Remember, you have the mind of Christ. This truth empowers you to reject the world’s approach to money and manage your resources in ways that honor Him.Having the mind of Christ in your finances means trusting God’s wisdom and provision in every decision. By seeking His guidance, we can manage money with faith, purpose, and confidence. Let this truth encourage you to view your finances not as a separate part of your life but as an integral way to glorify God.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband and I had about $40,000 in credit card debt a few years ago and barely got by. I heard about Christian Credit Counselors on the radio, so I called. They were able to lower our $1,600 monthly credit card payments down to $925. We then used some money from my mother's passing to pay it off early, and we are now completely debt-free. It feels incredible to be debt-free. I would encourage anyone in a similar situation to call Christian Credit Counselors—they were very helpful in lowering our payments so we could pay them off.I've been trying to pay off about $50,000 in student loan debt. I've heard that after 20 years, they'll review the debt and potentially forgive the remaining balance. Is that true? Also, I consider myself a generous giver, donating weekly to various organizations. Should I redu

In Matthew 6, Jesus tells us how we should pray and how not to… “…do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words.”Of course, Jesus then gives us the Lord’s Prayer as an example of how we should bring our needs to God. But are we skimming over part of it?A Prayer of DependenceIn our world of abundance, it’s easy to forget that everything we have comes from God. From food and water to shelter and income, every provision is a gift from Him. Yet, we often assume that our efforts alone secure these blessings.Jesus teaches us to approach God with a heart of dependence, recognizing that even our ability to work and earn is from Him. This mindset shifts us away from self-sufficiency, reminding us to humbly rely on God for all our needs—physical, emotional, and spiritual.Lessons from a World of ScarcityIn Jesus’ time, food security was uncertain, and people truly depended on God for their daily sustenance. Today, in a world of convenience and plenty, it’s easy to overlook the relevance of this prayer.But the essence of “daily bread” is timeless:It guards us against the pride of self-sufficiency.It combats the illusion that wealth or possessions can provide ultimate security.It redirects our trust from material abundance to God’s provision.In a culture that prizes wealth and possessions, praying for daily bread helps us resist the pull of materialism. Jesus warns against relying on earthly treasures and calls us to place our trust in Him instead.This prayer serves as a safeguard, reminding us that:God is our true provider.Our security lies in Him, not in material goods.God’s Promise to ProvideJesus doesn’t just teach us to ask for daily provision; He reassures us of God’s care. In Matthew 6:33, He says:“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”Our deepest need isn’t for bread, money, or possessions—it’s for God Himself. When we prioritize Him, He promises to meet our needs according to His perfect wisdom.Living the PrayerHow can we make “give us this day our daily bread” more than just words?Pray with Gratitude: Start each day by thanking God for His provision. Gratitude keeps us grounded and aware of His hand in every blessing.Acknowledge Your Dependence: Bring your needs to God, trusting Him to provide. Recognize that He alone sustains you, regardless of your circumstances.Seek God First: Focus on your relationship with God, placing Him above material pursuits. Trust that He will provide all you need.A Transformative PerspectiveThis line of the Lord’s Prayer is more than a request for sustenance—it’s a call to humility, gratitude, and faith. By praying earnestly for our daily bread, we affirm our dependence on God and realign our priorities with His kingdom.As you reflect on this prayer, consider your needs today. Bring them to God with trust, knowing that He cares for you and will meet your needs in His perfect timing. Whatever you’re facing—financial challenges, relational struggles, or uncertainty—God is your ultimate provider.Let’s approach Him daily with hearts full of gratitude and faith, thanking Him for His unwavering provision and grace.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I recently learned that since I'm 55 or older, I can withdraw money from my 401(k) without penalty. My husband suggested using $15,000 from that to cover the home repairs we need. I'm hesitant to take money from my retirement, but we need to replace the furnace and AC. Should I withdraw the $15,000 or look at other options, like a home equity loan?I have about $70,000 invested in a CD, earning around 5.5% interest. My broker tells me that's not a good option anymore since interest rates have fallen. He's offered me a 3-year fixed annuity option that would give me a 5.4% return. What are your thoughts on making that switch to the fixed annuity?My husband and I have a $15,000 credit card balance with 11% interest. We've been paying $2,000 per month, but the balance keeps going back up because we've been putting some of our daughter's expenses in London on the card. How can we effectively pay off this debt?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.

Thanksgiving is more than just a feast—it's a celebration rooted in faith, courage, and sacrifice. The Pilgrims' journey and pursuit of religious freedom have shaped American heritage and continue to inspire gratitude.The Pilgrims, also known as Separatists, broke away from the Church of England, believing it had strayed from biblical teaching. In contrast, the Puritans, or Non-Separatists, sought to reform the church from within. While the Puritans aimed to purify, the Pilgrims chose complete separation, making their journey to the New World a bold stand for freedom of worship.Fleeing Persecution and Seeking FreedomPersecuted in England for their independent worship and devotion to the Bible as their final authority, the Pilgrims fled to Leiden, Holland, in 1609. However, challenges persisted, and they realized their dream of true freedom required a journey to the New World.In 1620, about 120 men, women, and children boarded the Mayflower, enduring a treacherous Atlantic voyage to establish a new life where they could live and worship freely. While some passengers were adventurers seeking financial opportunities, the Pilgrims were primarily driven by their faith.The Pilgrims arrived in November, too late to plant crops. The harsh winter of 1620-1621 became known as the "starving time," where disease and famine claimed nearly half their group. Despite these hardships, they forged a friendship with Native Americans in the area, particularly Squanto, who proved instrumental in their survival.Squanto, who had previously learned English, taught the Pilgrims vital skills like planting corn and fishing. With his help, they planted crops in the Spring of 1621 and reaped a modest but life-saving harvest that fall.The First Thanksgiving: A Celebration of Faith and FriendshipThe Pilgrims hosted a feast in the fall of 1621 to honor God's provision. They invited their Native American neighbors, nearly doubling the gathering’s size. Together, they celebrated survival, provision, and friendship—one of the first potluck-style gatherings in America.By that time, only 22 men, four married women, and 25 children and teenagers from the original group had survived. Their resilience and gratitude set the foundation for the Thanksgiving tradition we celebrate today.A Legacy of Faith and GratitudeWilliam Bradford, the long-serving governor of Plymouth Colony, reflected on the Pilgrims’ journey in his book Of Plymouth Plantation. Quoting Hebrews 11:13-16, he described their faith:“They admitted they were foreigners and strangers on Earth… longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.”For the Pilgrims, their true home was with God, and their journey was a testament to enduring faith. This Thanksgiving, let’s remember the Pilgrims’ courage and resilience. Their sacrifices secured the freedom to worship—a gift we still enjoy today.From all of us at FaithFi, we wish you a happy and peaceful Thanksgiving. May your celebration be filled with faith, gratitude, and the joy of God’s provision.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm considering buying a $70,000 rental property and have 7-8 months of emergency funds. My friend advised against getting an equity loan, which would have a 7.5% interest rate. Should I use my own money to buy the property outright or get a loan? What do you suggest?What kind of taxes do you have to pay after a sale that was in probate?I'm 12 years old and will be 13 in two months. I get a $100 monthly allowance and want to learn how to save and invest my money.Resources Mentioned:StashChristian 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.

Do you find yourself trapped in a "one-day" mindset? Maybe you think, "One day, I'll be out of debt," "One day, I'll have enough," or "One day, I'll finally relax." We often tie our contentment to future circumstances, yet the Apostle Paul shows us a different way—contentment in the here and now.Paul, who experienced both wealth and poverty, wrote in Philippians 4:11-13 about the secret to contentment:“I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content... I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”Paul’s contentment wasn’t based on his circumstances but on his relationship with Jesus Christ. Whether he faced abundance or need, his joy remained unshaken because it was rooted in something eternal.Contentment Is LearnedContentment doesn’t happen overnight. As Paul emphasized, it’s a learned behavior. By shifting our focus from earthly circumstances to God, we begin to see that no amount of money, success, or possessions will ever satisfy us. Only a deep relationship with Jesus can fill the longing in our souls.Hebrews 13:5 reminds us:“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’”The Role of GratitudeGratitude plays a crucial role in fostering contentment. Recognizing what God has already done for us transforms our perspective. As Dr. Art Rainer says, “When you realize that you’re entitled to nothing, you become thankful for everything.”If you’re struggling to feel content, practicing intentional gratitude can shift your mindset from scarcity to abundance.Five Steps to Cultivate ContentmentHere are five practical steps to help you experience lasting contentment:Make Gratitude a Daily Habit: Begin each day by listing three things you’re grateful for. This simple practice shifts your focus to what you already have.Bring Your Needs to God: Share your needs (not wants) with God. Approach Him with a thankful heart, trusting in His faithful provision.Find Contentment in Christ: Reflect on Philippians 4:11-13. Meditate on the sufficiency of Christ in meeting your deepest needs.Appreciate the Present: Pause and savor the blessings around you. Stop striving for more and find joy in the moment.Practice Generosity: Generosity turns gratitude into action. Giving to others reminds you of your own blessings and brings joy through sharing.Contentment isn’t found in “one day.” It’s found today in the sufficiency of Christ, a heart of gratitude, and the joy of giving.A Resource for Finding PeaceIf financial fear or anxiety is stealing your peace this season, consider our 21-day devotional, Look At the Sparrows. This resource offers biblical guidance to help you find peace and contentment, no matter your circumstances.You can get your copy by visiting FaithFi.com/give with a gift of $25 or more. Your support not only equips you with this valuable devotional but also helps keep this ministry thriving so that others may see God as their ultimate treasure. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm divorced after 30 years. Do I still have any retirement or death benefits from my ex-spouse, or is everything over after the divorce?I have a $20,000 car loan and some investments. Would paying off the car loan by withdrawing from my IRAs be a good idea?My dad has a HELOC with an interest rate of 9.49%. We want to get rid of it, and we'd like to know if a zero-interest credit card is a good option to do this. Is there another option you'd suggest?We recently sold our house and have around $350,000 in a bank that earns practically nothing. My husband is suspicious of moving it into a high-yield savings account because it's not a brick-and-mortar bank. Are there any concerns we should be aware of? If not, how can we go about finding a good bank online?My wife and I are senior citizens, and we recently gained custody of our 10-year-old granddaughter. Her father passed away, and her mother is not in her life. We want some direction and understanding regarding setting up a trust for her for later in life. We're obviously brand new at parenting again, so any advice you have would be appreciated.Resources Mentioned:Christian 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 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.

“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” - Proverbs 11:14The words of that verse apply to all areas of Christian life, including financial stewardship. According to God's financial principles, good counsel is important for managing His money wisely. Dr. Art Rainer joins us today to talk about it.Dr. Art Rainer is the founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is a regular contributor here at Faith & Finance and the author of Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose.What Does a Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC) Do?Certified Christian Financial Counselors (CertCFCs) are trained to help individuals and couples with immediate financial challenges. Using biblical principles, they guide people in key areas such as:Budgeting effectivelyEliminating debtBreaking free from paycheck-to-paycheck livingSaving for future expensesLiving generouslyTheir goal is to equip you with practical tools and spiritual insights so that you can manage your money in accordance with God’s design.Rigorous Training for a Biblical ApproachBecoming a CertCFC involves a comprehensive training program covering topics like:Biblical stewardshipDebt elimination strategiesSaving and budgeting principlesTo earn the designation, candidates must pass a 100-question, two-hour examination. This rigorous process ensures they’re well-prepared to provide high-quality guidance that is both practical and biblically sound.Counselor vs. Advisor: What’s the Difference?One common question is the difference between financial counselors and financial advisors. Here’s a quick breakdown:Financial Advisors: Focus on long-term planning, including investments, retirement, and tax strategies.Certified Christian Financial Counselors (CertCFCs): Address immediate financial concerns, helping clients overcome challenges like debt and budgeting.If you’re looking for help with every day financial issues, a CertCFC is the right fit.A Calling to Help OthersIf you’re passionate about biblical financial stewardship, becoming a Certified Christian Financial Counselor might be your next step. CertCFCs serve in various capacities, including:Running a private financial counseling practiceServing in their local churchCombining both approaches to reach more peopleThere is a significant need for more counselors to help individuals align their finances with God’s principles.What to Expect When Working with a CertCFCWhen you meet with a Certified Christian Financial Counselor, you’ll find a supportive, empathetic partner who listens to your story and provides practical, biblically-based solutions. Typical sessions last about an hour and include:A review of your financial challengesEncouragement and guidance grounded in ScriptureActionable steps to move forwardYou’ll leave with real tools and a renewed sense of hope for managing your money God’s way.Ready to Take the Next Step?Whether you’re looking for financial guidance or feel called to help others as a counselor, the Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC) program offers the tools and training you need. For more information, visit ChristianFinancialHealth.com.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:We’ve recently discussed what we will do for our health care and need something covering pre-existing conditions. Do you guys have any recommendations on what we could go through or anything we can look into?I've recently invested in goldbacks and see more states joining. What are your thoughts on those, and is it a good idea to invest right now?I inherited a house with my sister worth $300-350,000. I lost my job, so I wouldn't qualify for a loan to buy out my sister's portion. I have unemployment and a 401(k) I could convert to an IRA. I'll be getting Social Security in February. Should I try to buy out my sister or just sell the house?Resources Mentioned:The Institute for Christian Financial HealthHealthcare.govChristian Healthcare Ministries (CHM)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.

As Thanksgiving week reminds us of the many blessings we enjoy, it’s natural to reflect on gratitude. But does gratitude naturally lead to generosity? Leo Sabo joins us today to discuss three things your pastor wishes you knew about giving.Leo Sabo is the President of the Christian Stewardship Network (CSN), where he gets to share the incredible impact financial stewardship and generosity can have on the Church. 1. Giving Has Spiritual BenefitsYour pastor wants you to know that giving is deeply tied to your spiritual growth. It’s not just about meeting church needs—it’s about discipleship and trust in God. Learning to surrender your finances to God is a major step in your faith journey.A Holistic View of Stewardship: Generosity encompasses more than money. It includes your time, talents, and treasures. Your pastor hopes you'll see giving as a condition of the heart, not just a financial act.100% Belongs to God: Some believe tithing is the only portion of our money that matters to God, but your pastor wants you to see all your resources as belonging to Him. True stewardship involves inviting God to have authority over everything you own.An Act of Worship: Giving is not a "membership fee" for the church. It’s an act of worship that overflows from a heart grateful to God.2. Stewardship Is DiscipleshipStewardship—responsibly managing your resources—is a key aspect of your faith. Many pastors offer financial management courses to help members learn biblical principles for saving, budgeting, avoiding debt, and investing.Why Stewardship Matters: Jesus frequently taught about money because how we handle it reveals the condition of our hearts. Faithful stewardship fosters generosity and aligns our financial decisions with God’s will.Programs for Your Growth: Churches often provide financial programs to equip members for wise money management. Pastors want you to know these resources are offered out of love and desire to see you spiritually and financially flourish.3. Transparency and Accountability Are CrucialIn today’s world, donors increasingly value financial transparency and accountability. Your pastor understands this and prioritizes using your gifts responsibly.Building Trust: Transparency reassures members that their generosity funds vital ministries like teaching, worship gatherings, and community outreach.The Church’s Responsibility: Churches rely solely on donor support, and your pastor wants you to feel confident that your gifts are being used to advance God’s kingdom in meaningful ways.Turning Gratitude Into ActionThis Thanksgiving, let your gratitude inspire generosity. Giving is more than a financial transaction—it’s a spiritual act that draws us closer to God. By embracing these principles of stewardship, you can experience the joy and freedom that come from trusting God with your resources. May your giving reflect a heart of worship, and your stewardship bring glory to the One who owns it all.If you're inspired to grow in generosity or want to start a stewardship ministry in your church, the Christian Stewardship Network offers tools and guidance for launching and managing effective stewardship programs. Visit ChristianStewardshipNetwork.com for more information.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a 36-year-old granddaughter who is a single parent with a low income and a 660 credit score. She was going to have to move but doesn't have to now. I was planning to give her $11,000 for a down payment, but she also has a $300/month car loan with 4 years left. Would it be better to use the $11,000 to pay off her car loan instead? Would that help improve her credit and give her extra cash to save for a home?I recently received a $25,000 gift and have put it into a savings account earning 4.5% interest. Should I take that $25,000 and put it back into my investment portfolio instead of leaving it in my savings account? I currently have three months' expenses saved as an emergency fund. What would be the better approach—keeping the $25,000 in the high-yield savings account or investing it?I'm 20 years old and have a $250,000 mortgage at 2.6% interest. I have $5,000 left each month—$4,000 goes to high-yield savings and $1,000 to retirement. Should I focus on paying down the mortgage quickly or continue investing the extra funds since market growth has been good?Resources Mentioned:Bankrate.comChristian Stewardship NetworkLook 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

With mortgage rates fluctuating, now might not seem like the perfect time to buy a home, but it’s an ideal time to prepare, especially for first-time homebuyers. Movement Mortgage recently shared helpful tips on FaithFi.com for those looking to enter the housing market. Here’s a breakdown of these critical steps to set you up for a successful and financially wise home purchase.Step 1: Determine Your Budget—And Keep It ConservativeFirst things first, know what you can afford. It’s wise to set a sale price and monthly payment that’s less than the maximum a lender or loan calculator may suggest. Keeping a buffer in your budget allows for unexpected costs and helps you avoid financial strain. As Proverbs 21:20 says, “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.”Step 2: Set a Savings Goal for Your Down PaymentWhile a 20% down payment isn’t always required, it has some major benefits:Reduces the loan amountEliminates private mortgage insurance (PMI)It gives you enough equity to sell if unforeseen circumstances ariseIf you can’t reach 20%, aim to save as close as possible for these advantages.Step 3: Budget for Additional CostsBeyond the down payment, remember incidental costs, like:Property and pest inspectionsMoving expensesEssential appliances (like a fridge or washer/dryer), if not provided by the sellerPlanning for these helps avoid last-minute financial surprises.Step 4: Check Your CreditMost mortgage lenders prefer a credit score between 700 and 750, with 740+ often unlocking the best rates. Here’s how to optimize your score:Review your credit report and dispute any errorsPay down debts to keep balances below 30% of your available creditAvoid any new credit inquiries, as “hard pulls” can impact your scoreStep 5: Lower Your Debt-to-Income (DTI) RatioEven with a great credit score, high debt levels could result in a mortgage denial. Try to reduce any debt you can, like paying off a car loan, to improve your DTI ratio and increase your mortgage eligibility.Step 6: Maintain a Clear Paper TrailLenders will closely scrutinize your transaction history, so avoid moving money between accounts for at least three months before applying. Any large transfers could complicate the process, as lenders must verify that your assets are not borrowed. If you’re expecting a cash gift, consult a loan officer for guidance. Specific documentation may be needed to confirm that the money is a gift, not a loan.Step 7: Pay Off Outstanding Tax DebtsIf you owe back taxes and are on a payment plan, prioritize paying these off. Outstanding tax debts affect your DTI ratio and could lead to complications with lenders, as tax liens can take priority over other debts.Step 8: Stay at Your JobLenders look for employment stability, so if you’re considering a job change, it’s best to hold off until after you buy the home. Having at least two years at your current job can reassure lenders and improve your chances of securing a mortgage.Need More Help? Connect with Movement MortgageMovement Mortgage offers guidance for each step of the home-buying process, helping you make informed financial decisions. Additionally, they’re a faith-based company dedicated to philanthropic causes, having donated $377 million to educational and infrastructure projects in underserved communities. To learn more, visit Movement.com/faith.These steps can help you confidently prepare for your first home purchase, ensuring you’re financially and practically ready when the time comes.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I would appreciate your thoughts on tithing from my portfolio gains or income.Can you borrow from a long-term health insurance policy?I have $10,000 in a CD and am trying to decide whether to use it to pay down my debt.Resources Mentioned:Movement MortgageNational Christian Foundation (NCF)Christian Credit CounselorsChristian Healthcare Ministries (CHM)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.

There’s a great investing option out there, and chances are, it’s not in your portfolio.That option is Exchange-Traded Funds or ETFs, and they’re worth considering. Brian Mumbert joins us today to discuss the advantages of ETFs.Brian Mumbert is Vice President and Regional Sales Executive at Timothy Plan, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.What is an ETF?An Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) is an investment option similar to a mutual fund but with distinct features. ETFs typically follow an index, such as the S&P 500 or NASDAQ, and are not actively managed. This means that an ETF holds a broad mix of investments, providing diversification that tracks the chosen index. One key advantage is that ETFs, like stocks, can be traded throughout the day, allowing investors to buy or sell at the current market price.How Do ETFs Differ from Mutual Funds?Unlike mutual funds, where the exact purchase price isn’t known until the end of the trading day, ETFs offer real-time pricing. This flexibility allows investors to trade whenever they choose during market hours. Additionally, mutual funds may pass on capital gains taxes to investors due to asset sales by fund managers, but ETFs generally avoid this by trading “baskets” of stocks, potentially reducing tax liability.Transparency and Tax AdvantagesETFs offer high transparency, with daily disclosures of their holdings. This transparency is a significant benefit for investors who prioritize clarity in where their money goes. Tax advantages are another key feature; ETFs often avoid capital gains taxes, which can be passed on to mutual fund holders, especially during high turnover periods.Faith-Based Screening for ETFsTimothy Plan applies the same rigorous faith-based screening to its ETFs as it does to its mutual funds. These screenings filter out companies that conflict with Christian values. While ETFs are passively managed, which can mean a slight delay in removing non-compliant holdings, Timothy Plan flags them for removal to ensure alignment with their mission. This gives investors peace of mind, knowing their ETF investments are held to the same ethical standards as other Timothy Plan products.Lower Cost, Greater AccessibilityETFs offer a lower expense ratio than some mutual funds for investors looking for a cost-effective entry into faith-based investing. This affordability can make ETFs an attractive option for individuals who may be deterred by higher fees and a practical choice for adding diversified exposure to one’s portfolio.Visit TimothyPlan.com for more details on Timothy Plan’s offerings, including faith-based ETFs and mutual funds. With over 30 years of experience, Timothy Plan provides a reliable option for investors who want to align their finances with their faith.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 60 years old and want to retire early at 62. Before I do that, I'd like to pay off my house. Is that advisable?My son has started a new sales outside sales position and will receive a base salary. How can I advise him on how to begin a budget and maintain it when you have commission as your primary source of income?I was wanting to find out about a book you mentioned. I think it was for widows for budgeting who may not know how to do that, per se. What is the title of that book?We're revising our wills and deciding how much to give to our heirs and charity. What counsel do you have on how to make that decision?Resources Mentioned:Timothy PlanWise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan, JD.Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives by Ron 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 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 hear about the guy who paid his taxes to the IRS with a smile? It didn’t work out, though—it turns out they prefer money.Well, paying taxes is certainly no laughing matter, and we don’t want to miss something that could end up costing us money. Fortunately, Kevin Cross is here today with a list of year-end tax tips you don’t want to miss.Kevin Cross is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) who has headed CPA firms in Florida and now Georgia. He has studied the tax code extensively and specializes in representing taxpayers before the IRS. 2024 Year-End Tax StrategiesAs the end of 2024 draws near, these are some critical financial moves that can help you maximize your tax savings: 1. Review Withholding and Estimated PaymentsThe first step in year-end tax prep is to check how much you’ve paid in taxes this year. Avoid underpaying (which leads to penalties) or overpaying (which gives the government an interest-free loan on your money). For those behind on withholding, consider adjusting your remaining paychecks to make up the difference.2. Max Out Retirement ContributionsContributing to a retirement account like a 401(k) or IRA is one of the best ways to lower your taxable income. For high-income earners, consider a “backdoor Roth IRA”—a strategy involving non-deductible IRA contributions converted to a Roth IRA, providing tax-free growth.3. Optimize Charitable ContributionsCharitable giving is a powerful tax strategy, especially if you bundle multiple years of contributions. By “bunching” donations, you may surpass the standard deduction threshold, allowing you to itemize and benefit from your generosity. A donor-advised fund (DAF) can streamline this process, allowing you to make a large donation this year and distribute it to charities over time.4. Donate Appreciated AssetsConsider donating appreciated stocks or mutual funds to avoid paying capital gains tax on the appreciation. For example, if you bought stock for $1,000 and it’s now worth $1,500, donating it allows you to deduct the full $1,500 without incurring capital gains tax on the $500 gain.5. Qualified Charitable Distributions for IRA HoldersFor those 70½ or older, Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from an IRA allow you to donate directly to charity without counting the distribution as taxable income. This is particularly helpful if you’re taking the standard deduction.6. Take Advantage of Section 121 Exclusion on Home SalesSection 121 of the tax code allows homeowners to exclude up to $500,000 in capital gains (for married couples) when selling their primary residence, provided they’ve lived in it for at least two of the last five years. This is a significant opportunity for those considering selling their homes in a high-appreciation market.7. Avoid Underpayment PenaltiesQuarterly estimated payments are essential to avoid IRS interest and penalties if you're self-employed or a gig worker. Failure to pay quarterly could result in a penalty that acts like interest on unpaid taxes, making it costlier than paying in installments.8. Don’t Ignore Past Tax IssuesIf you’re behind on tax filings or payments, now’s the time to act. Many individuals feel overwhelmed, but taking the first step to seek professional help can bring peace and clarity. We advise you to contact a CPA with IRS experience to assist with this process.These strategies can help you make the most of tax season and avoid paying more than necessary. Remember, the tax code is complex, and each situation is unique, so consulting with a CPA, especially one experienced in IRS negotiations, can provide personalized guidance. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have some rental properties that I'm worried will be sold for cheap at auction after I'm gone since my kids in California don't want to return to Arkansas. Should I sell the properties and put the money in a trust for my grandkids' education?I'm contributing 15% of my income to my 401(k), and my employer matches 5%. But I'm trying to build up my emergency savings, and I'm only at about two months' worth right now. Should I stop contributing to my 401(k) for now so I can focus on getting my emergency fund up to 6 months' expenses?Resources Mentioned:Kevin Cross, CPANational 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 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.

They say that winners never quit and quitters never win, but that’s not really true, is it? What if you’re trying to quit a bad habit?It’s not only okay to quit a bad habit; it’s something we should always strive to do—especially with investing. Mark Biller joins us today with a list of bad habits you should quit if you find yourself doing them.Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. Go Ahead, Be a QuitterIn a recent article titled “Go Ahead, Be a Quitter” at SoundMindInvesting.com, six bad investing habits are discussed as they explain why quitting them can lead to better financial outcomes.1. Quit Standing on the SidelinesOne of the worst habits in investing is not starting at all. Time is crucial for building wealth, thanks to the power of compound interest—often referred to as the “8th wonder of the world.” Investing in well-managed, growing businesses, primarily through stocks, has historically provided returns that outpace inflation. So, instead of staying on the sidelines, become a part-owner of corporate America by investing.2. Quit Waiting for a “Low-Risk” Entry PointTrying to time the market is nearly impossible. Waiting for the “perfect” moment often means missing out on valuable time in the market. Over any five-year period, a diversified stock portfolio rarely loses money and frequently produces high returns. Consistency and patience, rather than timing, are the true keys to long-term growth.3. Quit Looking for a Reason to SellEvery financial expert seems to have a new doom-and-gloom prediction, but tuning into this noise can hurt long-term gains. Inflation—not market downturns—is often the biggest threat to wealth, and stocks are one of the best defenses against inflation. Instead of looking for reasons to sell, commit to investing long-term and avoid unnecessary panic.4. Quit Making Things ComplicatedAvoid drowning in economic forecasts, technical analyses, and frequent trades. Instead, pick solid investments and hold on to them. The simpler your approach, the easier it will be to stay the course.5. Quit Obsessing Over Short-Term ResultsChecking your portfolio daily can lead to emotional highs and lows, tempting you to trade based on short-term results rather than long-term goals. Instead, limit your portfolio checks to avoid unnecessary stress and stay focused on your broader financial objectives.6. Quit Worrying—Trust and Invest with PeaceInstead of letting fear drive your investment decisions, remember 2 Timothy 1:7: “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Trust in God’s provision, follow His principles, and invest from a place of peace rather than anxiety.For more on these principles, check out his full article, “Go Ahead, Be a Quitter,” at SoundMindInvesting.org.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm considering withdrawing $20,000 to $30,000 from our $148,896 IRA to help purchase a new one-floor home for my husband. What are your thoughts on this, and what would the tax implications be?I need some money to keep safe and liquid, as the high-yield interest rates I've been getting are about to go down. I may need to use this money to buy my mom's house for my sister in the future. What would you recommend as a safe investment option that can still provide a decent yield while keeping the money accessible?My wife and I are looking to invest in a faith-based way, focusing on index funds and ETFs. Do you have any specific low-cost, faith-aligned recommendations we could consider for our investment portfolio?I want to share how reading the True Riches book has changed my husband's and my approach to finances as a church. We've canceled our Amazon Prime membership to reduce materialism, and we're learning to be more intentional with our spending and generous beyond tithing. The book has really shifted our mindset to a kingdom-focused perspective on managing our resources.Resources Mentioned:True Riches: What Jesus Really Said About Money and Your Heart by John Cortines and Gregory BaumerGo Ahead, Be a Quitter (Article by Sound Mind Investing)Eventide Asset ManagementList 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 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’ve heard of the Great Wealth Transfer taking place as Baby Boomers pass away, but did you know that women will inherit the majority of those assets?It’s true. The Great Wealth Transfer is really horizontal, with widows inheriting most private wealth before it’s passed on to the next generation. Sharon Epps joins us today to talk about how women should prepare.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.Women as the Primary InheritorsOne surprising fact is that women will inherit the majority of this wealth. Since women typically outlive men by about six to seven years, nearly 70% will experience widowhood and manage their spouse’s share of assets. In addition to inheriting from their husbands, many women will also receive an inheritance from their parents, and, increasingly, they are generating their own income through employment. This convergence of income streams will place an estimated two-thirds of U.S. assets—around $30 trillion—under women’s control by 2030, according to McKinsey & Company.The Heart of Generosity: Purpose, Passion, and PlanThe wealth transfer isn’t just about financial assets; it’s a significant opportunity for generosity. Three key factors inspire generosity: purpose, passion, and planning.Purpose: A strong sense of purpose can motivate people to give more. Research from Women Doing Well revealed that women who score high on purpose tend to donate around 14% of their income, compared to 9% for those with lower purpose scores.Passion: Passion for a cause often stems from personal experiences of pain or suffering. This deeply held belief leads people to make sacrificial giving decisions. When people align their hearts with God’s, they are inspired to give courageously and with conviction, connecting their generosity to meaningful experiences.Planning: Effective financial planning is essential for generosity, especially for women who aspire to give more but may lack the structure to manage their finances for greater impact. Financial planning and passion must work hand-in-hand to create a lasting legacy of giving.Building a Generous Legacy: Preparing for Wealth ResponsibilityWith the responsibility of managing inherited wealth, women must be equipped with spiritual foundations and financial wisdom. Three main influences support women’s generosity:Understanding that God owns it all.Personal spiritual disciplines like Bible study and prayer.Receiving teaching on stewardship.When women embrace these principles, they can approach wealth with a mindset of stewardship rather than ownership, seeing it as a resource to bless others.Women and Collaborative GivingWomen often approach giving differently than men, preferring collaboration and community. Studies from the National Christian Foundation show that women are twice as likely to participate in collaborative giving, pooling resources with others to maximize their impact. Women seek transformational experiences rather than merely transactional ones, often using giving as a means to disciple their families and build stronger connections within their communities.For women looking to embrace generosity and connect with like-minded individuals, we recommend organizations such as Women Doing Well, Generous Giving, and the National Christian Foundation (NCF). These groups offer opportunities for women to strategize, collaborate, and grow in their giving journey.Embracing Generosity as a Lasting LegacyAs the wealth transfer unfolds, the unique generosity of women presents an unparalleled chance to impact future generations. For those who steward this opportunity with purpose, passion, and a solid plan, the legacy of giving can become not only a financial blessing but a tool for discipleship and transformation.Connecting with organizations and communities that support women’s giving can help women maximize this historic moment and courageously and convictionally live out the principles of generosity.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 75, and my husband is 78. If he passes away, I'll lose about $4,000 per month in income. I have $2,800 from teacher retirement, $662 in social security, and $2,000 from a 403(b). I've saved $80,000 and can save an extra $4,000 monthly. I'm concerned about managing the $4,000 income drop and what to do with the $80,000 I've saved.My wife and I own two homes—one is a rental property I moved out of in 2022. We're trying to determine the best time to sell both properties and how to maximize the capital gains exclusion, especially since we both had primary residences prior to getting married in 2022.Resources Mentioned:Generous GivingNational Christian Foundation (NCF)Women Doing WellLook 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 (

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” - Proverbs 15:1That verse reminds us to keep a cool head when we experience conflict or crisis in a relationship—and maybe even more…when that crisis involves the marriage relationship. Howard Dayton joins us today to talk about surviving a marriage crisis.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, including Money and Marriage God's Way.Recognizing the Warning Signs of a Marital CrisisMarriage challenges can emerge when stress or unresolved conflicts grow too intense for a couple to manage. Financial struggles, in particular, often go beyond “dollars and cents” and can breed emotions like anger, resentment, and frustration. This strain can lead to poor communication or even emotional withdrawal. A financial crisis in marriage becomes incredibly complex when both partners contribute to it, eroding trust in the relationship.People handle crises differently; some respond with intense emotions, while others may withdraw and become more introspective. Howard emphasizes the importance of allowing each spouse to process the situation in their own way while offering mutual support. In times of difficulty, a marriage can either strengthen or weaken. Interestingly, the pain of a crisis can also spark positive change, prompting impulsive spenders to become more mindful or encouraging couples to deepen their relationship with Christ.Practical Steps to Work Through Marital ConflictTo support couples facing a financial crisis, here are a few practical steps to guide healing:Pray Together for Wisdom—Begin by asking for God’s guidance and wisdom.Set Ground Rules for Communication—Agree on respectful ways to handle conflicts, including the option for a “time-out” to cool down and pray together if emotions escalate.Use Kind Words—Avoid hurtful language, as it can cause lasting damage.Write Letters to Each Other—Sometimes, writing down feelings can help clarify issues. Afterward, meet to discuss these letters, pray, and address the issues raised.Identify and Repent of Any Sins—Acknowledge any harmful behaviors, such as addiction, and take steps toward repentance and recovery.Seek the Source of the Hurt—Ask God to reveal the underlying sources of pain and disconnect.Work to Rebuild the Marriage—Each spouse should find someone to hold them accountable as they make better choices.Seeking Outside Help When NeededIf these steps don’t resolve the crisis, it may be time to seek outside help. A qualified, mature Christian counselor can offer valuable guidance when a couple is unable to work through challenges on their own. Of course, there are situations where divorce may occur due to abuse, adultery, or addiction; however, many marital issues can be overcome with commitment from both partners.The goal of financial unity in marriage is to make decisions together, listen to each other, and view finances as a shared resource. This oneness fosters trust, transparency, and partnership in every area of life.For more on this topic, check out Howard Dayton’s book, Money and Marriage God’s Way, which delves deeper into building a unified financial and marital life.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have cancer and will likely pass away soon. My husband and I have separate finances due to a prenup. I have about $700,000 saved, and I want to know how much I should leave to my husband versus leaving it to the Lord's work, as my husband would likely want me to leave it all to him.I'm retired and have substantial savings that I transferred to an IRA. I've learned about the 'spend-down' when looking to enter a care facility as you age. Is it too soon for me to start spending down this IRA money, and how should I go about doing that?I have some kids who haven't been very responsible with their finances. One is about 44, and the other is 32. I've been considering getting a term life insurance policy on them so that if something happens to them because of their lifestyle choices, I would have something I could give to their children. Is this a good idea, and how much coverage should I get?I know you've said that identity theft insurance is unnecessary, but what about the $2 million coverage for stolen funds and expenses that some policies provide? Is that something I should consider getting, even if it's an expense?Resources Mentioned:Compass Financial MinistryMoney and Marriage God’s Way by Howard DaytonFamilyLife BlendedLook 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

Bonds are considered safe investments but also a bit boring. Is that true, though?In the investing world, all the drama, for good or ill, is in the stock market. It’s up, it’s down, you get the picture. However, bonds also have an interesting story, and Benjamin Bailey is here to tell us about it.Benjamin Bailey is Vice President of Investments and Senior Fixed Income Manager at Praxis Mutual Funds, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.Introduction to Bonds and StocksBonds play a unique role in building a well-rounded investment portfolio compared to stocks. Stocks represent ownership in a company—owning a small piece of a business like Verizon or Lowe's. Investors typically buy stocks hoping for price appreciation, aiming to sell them for more than they paid. Bonds, however, function differently. When a large company needs significant funding, they may issue bonds to raise capital, allowing investors to “lend” the company money. In return, bondholders receive interest payments (often bi-annually) and get their initial investment back when the bond matures. Bonds may not offer the same potential for big gains as stocks, but they tend to provide more stability.Why Bonds Belong in a Diversified PortfolioBonds are often recommended as part of a diversified portfolio, especially as investors approach the time when they’ll need to withdraw funds. If you’re using a portfolio to fund your retirement or a significant life expense like college tuition, bonds help protect against sudden stock market dips. With time to weather market fluctuations, younger investors may not need as much exposure to bonds. Still, bonds add stability, allowing investors to rebalance effectively if stocks fall sharply.Individual Bonds vs. Bond FundsInvestors can choose between individual bonds and bond funds. While individual bonds can be appealing for their specific returns, they’re less liquid, meaning buying and selling them is harder. Bond funds offer better liquidity and diversification, often containing hundreds of individual bonds. This way, if one bond in a fund doesn’t perform well, it impacts only a small fraction of the portfolio, unlike holding a larger portion in individual bonds.High Yield Bonds: The Balance of Risk and RewardHigh-yield bonds offer higher potential returns than regular bonds but come with higher risk. While they’re generally safer than stocks, they’re riskier than average bonds. High-yield bonds can increase returns but should be balanced to avoid excessive risk in your bond allocation.Interest rates heavily impact bond performance. Bonds faced challenges during periods of rising interest rates. However, with higher starting yields now available, bond investments may provide better protection against downside risks moving forward. When considering bonds' role in your portfolio, it's helpful to focus on future potential rather than past performance.Faith-Based Investing and Impact BondsAn exciting development in the bond market is faith-based investing, where investments align with personal values. Faith-based bond funds screen out companies involved in industries like alcohol, tobacco, and gambling, allowing investors to support ethical practices. Praxis Mutual Funds, for example, offers “impact bonds” that fund positive social projects, such as social bonds issued by the African Development Bank to support initiatives like Power Africa.A bond portfolio can balance traditional bonds with impact bonds, allowing for both financial returns and social benefits. At Praxis, about 35% of the bond fund consists of impact bonds, which they feel is the appropriate level for diversification and positive impact.For those interested in learning more, Praxis Mutual Funds offers a range of resources, including their annual impact report. This is a great way to see how investments are actively making a difference. Visit PraxisMutualFunds.com to explore more about their equity and impact bond funds.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a 16-year-old daughter who was awarded a $220,000 settlement. I'm concerned she will have full access to this money when she turns 18, and I don't think an 18-year-old should have that much money. What are my options to prevent her from accessing this money at 18?Resources Mentioned:Praxis Mutual FundsOpen 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 pers

Christmas is six weeks away, and some folks may already be feeling the stress.The holidays should be a time of spiritual reflection and reconnection with family and friends…but too often, we lose sight of that in the quest for perfection. Crystal Paine is here to help us stay focused on the actual “reason for the season.”Crystal Paine is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com and the author of The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most.1. Start with a Christmas BudgetOne of the best ways to enjoy a stress-free holiday is by setting up a Christmas budget. A budget is like a set of guardrails—it keeps you on track, preventing you from overspending or going into debt. Here’s a simple way to create one:Determine Your Total Spending Limit: Decide how much you can comfortably spend this season.List Your Recipients: Write down everyone you’re buying for and assign a spending amount for each.Track Your Spending: Use a spreadsheet or the FaithFi app to keep a running total of your spending.By creating a budget, you’ll know exactly what you have left to spend without sacrificing your financial well-being for the New Year.2. Plan Your Holiday ShoppingIf you tend to overspend during holiday sales, using cash-only or prepaid gift cards is a great way to ensure you stick to your budget. Here are some extra tips:Shop with Gift Cards: Consider using Amazon or store-specific gift cards to control spending.Use Deal Sites: Websites like MoneySavingMom.com and RetailMeNot.com offer deals and coupons.Best Shopping Times: Black Friday week and the following two weeks are generally the best time to find the deals you’re looking for.With some planning, you can keep your shopping affordable and enjoyable.3. Keep Holiday Cooking ManageableHoliday cooking can be a joy, but it can also become a significant source of stress. It’s advised that you embrace shortcuts where possible:Use Pre-Made Ingredients: Don’t feel guilty about using store-bought cookie dough or other pre-made items. Sometimes, it’s just as affordable as homemade.One Baking Night: Consider dedicating one evening to bake as a family. Let each person choose one recipe and enjoy the process together without the burden of constant baking all month.These small changes can bring balance to your holiday kitchen, making it a time of joy rather than stress.4. Share the Hosting ResponsibilitiesIf you’re hosting family or friends, don’t be afraid to ask guests to contribute. Include a note in your invitation encouraging each family to bring a dish. Not only does this lighten your load, but it also makes the event more collaborative and enjoyable for everyone.5. Make a Family “December Bucket List”To bring your family closer during the holiday season, consider creating a “December Bucket List.” Here’s an example: Each Family Member Chooses an Activity: Whether it’s a movie night, baking cookies, or a trip to see Christmas lights, everyone gets a say.Add It to the Calendar: Schedule these events to create special memories without feeling overwhelmed.This approach ensures everyone has a voice and the season feels special without overloading your calendar.6. Keep Christ the Center of ChristmasAbove all, remember the reason for the season. Using an Advent calendar or devotional is an excellent way to keep the focus on Christ for you and your family. Unwrapping the Greatest Gift: A Family Celebration of Christmas by Ann Voskamp is a fantastic advent devotional if you’re looking for a resource for your family to go through this Christmas season. Each day includes a devotional and an ornament symbolizing the story of Christ.This daily ritual not only reminds everyone why we celebrate but also keeps the true spirit of Christmas in the heart of your home.As we approach Christmas, let’s aim to make it a season of joy and reflection rather than stress. With a budget, some planning, and a focus on Christ, we can enjoy a holiday that brings peace, love, and lasting memories.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My son and daughter-in-law have adopted four Ukrainian children who are now teenagers and looking for college scholarships. I remember someone previously calling your program and mentioning a resource for finding scholarships that have yet to be widely applied, but I didn't write down the details. Do you have any recommendations for where we can find those types of lesser-known scholarship opportunities?I was told about a Morgan Stanley mutual fund investment that supposedly pays $12,000 per year. It sounds too good to be true. What is your opinion on this, and are there any similar low-risk investments you would recommend?I applied for Social Security benefits after my divorce, but the process has been frustrating. The Social Security office didn't provide all the information I needed up front, and now I'm facing delays getting the required marriage certificate from New York. I would like to know if I can use an old pay stub with

If you’ve ever thought you view the world differently than others—that has probably never been more true.A new study has revealed a sharp drop in the number of Americans with a biblical worldview. Chad Clark joins us today with his insights.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. The State of the Biblical WorldviewRecent findings from the 2023 American Worldview Inventory conducted by Arizona Christian University. This survey, led by Dr. George Barna, polled over 2,000 Americans on topics like marriage, money, and morals. The results were surprising: only 4% of American adults hold a biblical worldview, a percentage that has been on a steady decline. Particularly concerning, just 1% of those under 30 identified with a biblical worldview.The survey further revealed that even among self-identified Christians, only 6% hold a biblical worldview. This means that a significant majority—94%—are influenced more by cultural values than by God’s Word.Our Faith Should Transform Our WorldviewWhile these statistics may be disheartening, it’s helpful to remember that salvation isn’t about having “correct” answers but about grace through faith in Jesus Christ. This faith, rooted in scripture, is meant to shape every aspect of our lives. The Apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 12:2, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” We are called not just to know biblical truth but to be transformed by it daily.Renewal of the mind is a daily journey. Psalm 119 encourages us in this pursuit: “In the way of your testimonies, I delight as much as in all riches... I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word.” This verse reminds us that God should be our ultimate treasure, surpassing all earthly riches.At FaithFi, we strive to help Christians view God as their ultimate treasure, particularly in an area where many struggle: money. Worldly values often dictate how we perceive and use money, but as believers, we are called to manage it as stewards of God’s resources.A biblical worldview impacts not only our values but also how we handle our finances. FaithFi's mission is to teach, equip, and encourage Christians to allow God’s Word to shape their views on money. It’s not just about learning financial principles—it’s about a transformation of the heart that influences how we manage what God has given us.How You Can Make a DifferenceAs we approach the end of the year, we invite you to partner with us in spreading this message. Whether you’ve been positively impacted by FaithFi’s work or are hearing about us for the first time, now is an exciting time to join us. A generous group of donors has set up a $150,000 match, meaning every dollar you give to FaithFi until December 31 will have double the impact.To learn more and to make your contribution, visit FaithFi.com/Impact. Together, we can encourage more Christians to embrace a biblical worldview in every area of life, including finances.Thank you for your support and for joining us in this mission. Every gift matters, and with the match, it can go twice as far!On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I just started Social Security and will soon begin Medicare. I have a small 401(k), $17,000 in credit card debt, and $5,000 in car debt. I need to free up cash flow to afford the $77 monthly Medicare Part B premium. Should I pay off the credit card or car debt first?I am coming up on my second anniversary at work. I have not started investing in the company's 401(k) plan because I'm unsettled about where the money will be invested. I don't believe in certain things, so I don't know how to work around that.My daughter had $100,000 leftover from her 401(k) after her previous company lost a lot of money. She left the company and wants to know if she should put the $100,000 in an IRA or a Roth account.I have a question regarding a good operating budget for my business. If I spend $10 on marketing, what would be a reasonable percentage increase I could expect to make that back? For example, if I pay $10 and make $15 back, what would be a general percentage-wise number that would be reasonable for my business?Resources Mentioned:List of Faith-Based Investment FundsFaithFi.com/ImpactLook 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 coll

The Bible is full of wisdom on managing money and possessions, yet there are common beliefs about wealth that are simply unbiblical. These misconceptions can lead people away from God’s truth about finances, creating confusion and stress. Let’s examine five of these myths and explore what the Bible actually teaches.1. The “I Win, You Lose” MentalityOne widespread belief is that money is a zero-sum game: for someone to have more, someone else must have less. This scarcity mindset fuels anxiety and fear, making people view wealth as something limited.Scripture, however, reveals God’s generosity and ability to provide abundantly. In Psalm 50:10, God reminds us that He “owns the cattle on a thousand hills.” Jesus also demonstrated abundance in Matthew 14:13-21 when He fed five thousand with just five loaves and two fish, leaving behind twelve baskets of leftovers. God is not restricted by human limitations; His resources are limitless, allowing us to live with trust rather than fear.2. Building Wealth Is SelfishSome believe building wealth is inherently selfish and contrary to a life of faith. However, the Bible encourages us to grow wealth wisely for God’s Kingdom. In Proverbs 13:11, we learn, “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” Wealth can be a tool for godly stewardship, enabling us to bless others.Building wealth isn’t about hoarding; it’s about using resources to serve others and accomplish God’s purposes. We can earn, save, and give generously with careful stewardship to impact lives and glorify God.3. More Money Equals More HappinessAnother myth is that more money will bring more happiness. Many pursue wealth, believing it will lead to contentment and fulfillment, yet Ecclesiastes 5:10 warns us, “Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied.”True joy comes not from wealth but from a relationship with Christ. The Apostle Paul beautifully illustrates this in Philippians 4:12-13, “I have learned the secret of being content in any situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” True contentment comes from God, not from financial abundance.4. Only 10 Percent Belongs to GodTithing often stirs debate, but the heart behind our giving matters most. Viewing only ten percent as God’s and the rest as ours is misleading; everything we have belongs to God. This mindset risks making generosity about pride, as if giving more makes us better Christians.When we recognize God’s ownership of all things, our giving becomes a humble response to His generosity. As Deuteronomy 10:14 says, “To the Lord your God belong heaven and the heaven of heavens, the earth with all that is in it.” Like David prayed, “Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.”5. Giving More Money Means Receiving More MoneyThe final myth is that if we give generously, God will always respond by giving us more money. While God blesses obedience and faithfulness, His blessings are not limited to financial gain. Blessings from God come in many forms—wisdom, peace, relationships, and spiritual growth.The Bible cautions against trying to “bargain” with God for financial returns. Giving should come from a heart of worship and gratitude, not from an expectation of receiving. God’s blessings often transcend wealth, fulfilling our deeper needs beyond money.These common myths about money can lead us away from God’s wisdom, yet by staying rooted in Scripture, we can find true financial peace. Understanding what the Bible really says helps us manage our resources faithfully, focusing on generosity, trust, and purpose. As we reject these unbiblical beliefs, we can steward God’s resources wisely, with an eternal perspective that honors Him.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm about to lose our house with a big mortgage company. They had me do a forbearance and then a modification, but I couldn't afford the modified payments. Now, they're telling me to wait until it's denied and apply for another modification, but I'm worried they're trying to get me to wait so they can foreclose since we have a lot of equity. Is there help available to work with the mortgage company?I worked at a company with an ESOP and got fired for sharing my faith. About a month before, my wife felt strongly that we should pay off our house. Now, I'll have access to the ESOP money this fourth quarter. Should we use that to pay off the house this year, even though it will impact our taxes? Or should we wait until next year for tax reasons?I'm retiring in 6 months and have $520,000 in retirement accounts. An investment firm has offered an annuity that would add 30% to my balance and provide an 8% annual increase if I delay withdrawals. If I start withdrawals in the first year, they will pay me $42,925 per year for life. Is this annuity option beneficial for my situation?My husba

Having an emergency fund is great, but how can you ensure it’s there when you really need it? It’s easy to set aside money for a rainy day, but what happens when we start dipping into that fund for things that aren’t actually emergencies?The Bible has much to say about wisdom and preparation, and Proverbs 21:20 offers a powerful reminder: “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours them.”This verse highlights the importance of saving rather than consuming everything we earn, urging us to be prepared for the inevitable challenges that come our way. An emergency fund is one of the most effective financial tools for navigating these moments. It provides a safeguard against unexpected expenses and helps you avoid unnecessary debt.Financial emergencies are almost a certainty in life. They can range from minor inconveniences, like a flat tire, to major setbacks, like a costly medical bill. Establishing an emergency fund reduces stress and provides a financial defense. While building wealth requires a good offense, protecting that wealth requires a strong defense, and an emergency fund is central to that strategy.How Much Should You Save?To get started, aim to save an introductory fund of $1,000 to $1,500 for minor emergencies. Once you’ve paid off all debt except for a mortgage and are taking advantage of any employer matching contributions, work toward a fully-funded emergency fund of three to six months’ worth of living expenses. This larger reserve will protect you from significant financial disruptions, such as job loss or a major health crisis.When to Use Your Emergency Fund: Three Key QuestionsNot every expense is a true emergency. Before tapping into your emergency fund, ask yourself these three questions:Is This Urgent? If an expense can wait, it might not be an emergency. Consider saving up instead for non-urgent needs.Is This Necessary? Understanding the difference between needs and wants is essential. A functional, affordable solution often serves better than a luxury purchase.Is This Unexpected? Some expenses, like holidays or birthdays, are predictable and don’t qualify as emergencies. Plan ahead for these recurring costs to keep your emergency fund intact.Using Your Emergency Fund WiselyEven when an expense qualifies as an emergency, aim to spend as little as possible. Adjust your budget temporarily to make funds stretch further, and focus on replenishing your emergency fund as soon as possible.A well-funded emergency account provides more than financial security—it allows you to maintain peace of mind and continue giving generously, regardless of the circumstances. By preparing for the unexpected, you’re also equipped to live out your values, knowing you’re ready for whatever comes next.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have to take the RMD this year and want to roll it over to an IRA to make the Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). However, I have deferred compensation, and they said they can't do that. Can I roll it over to an IRA? If so, how do I do that? Does it cost money? Do I have time before the end of the year?My question is about tithing. Tithing is mentioned in the Old Testament, but in the New Testament, Paul stresses giving from the heart. Some say they give as they purpose in their hearts, sometimes more, sometimes less. I'd like your opinion on this.I'm 65, recently retired, and will only receive a partial paycheck until Q1 2025. I have $10,000 in credit card debt and a $10,000 car loan but only $50,000 in my IRA. Would it be wise to withdraw $10,000 from my IRA to pay off the car loan since I won't be able to afford the $400 monthly payment once my partial paycheck ends?Resources Mentioned:Christian 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.

In 1897, hymn writer Johnson Oatman Junior penned the timeless words, “Count your blessings, name them one by one,” a refrain that has encouraged generations. It reminds us of the profound role gratitude plays in the Christian life. As Thanksgiving approaches, this theme of gratitude takes on even greater significance. Let’s look closer at Oatman’s hymn and the enduring truths it holds for us.The Importance of GratitudeThankfulness isn’t just a holiday sentiment. It’s foundational to a life of faith. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, we’re reminded to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Gratitude reorients our focus, reminding us of God’s faithfulness, especially in challenging times. As Oatman writes in the first verse: “When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed… Count your many blessings, name them one by one… And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.”By acknowledging God’s goodness, we find renewed strength even in hardship.Fear and doubt can feel overwhelming, but gratitude has the power to shift our perspective. Psalm 118:4-5 reminds us, “Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me free.”Focusing on our blessings brings us peace, as Jesus reassures us in John 16:33: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”Reflecting on God’s provision can dissolve doubts, replacing anxiety with trust.The hymn’s second verse emphasizes this: “Are you ever burdened with a load of care? … Count your many blessings, ev'ry doubt will fly.” When we reflect on God’s faithfulness, we are reminded of His constant presence and care, as David beautifully expresses in Psalm 23.Gratitude Refines Our PrioritiesOatman’s third verse warns against comparing ourselves to others, stating: “When you look at others with their lands and gold… think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold.”Focusing on the eternal treasure we have in Christ brings contentment. Jesus offers a peace the world cannot give: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you… Let not your hearts be troubled.” - John 14:27Gratitude shifts our hearts away from jealousy toward contentment rooted in Christ. The hymn's refrain encourages a simple yet powerful practice: “Count your blessings, name them one by one… see what God has done.”When was the last time you paused to reflect on the blessings in your life? Set aside time today to list every blessing you can think of, big or small. It’s a great activity for the entire family—kids included—and you might be surprised at how much you have to be thankful for!Acknowledge the Giver of Every Good GiftWhile counting blessings is a valuable practice, as Christians, we’re called to take it one step further. James 1:17 reminds us: “Every good gift… is from above, coming down from the Father.”We should not only count our blessings but also recognize that every blessing is a gift from God. Take a moment to thank Him for each item on your list, and let gratitude renew your joy.Johnson Oatman’s hymn ends with a final reminder: “So, amid the conflict whether great or small… Do not be discouraged, God is over all.”Whatever you face, remember that gratitude can lift your spirit and strengthen your faith. Count your blessings, embrace gratitude, and remember God is with you through every trial. Let’s start counting today, knowing that our faithful God is at the heart of every blessing!On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I borrowed money from my 401(k) to buy a home but had trouble paying. My plan converted the loan to a hardship distribution with a 35% tax penalty. How can I avoid this penalty?My wife will be 62 in August. She's retired, but we still file taxes jointly. I was thinking about her taking her Social Security early. Would it be taxed since I still work?I own a land-flipping and splitting business. We are about $5.5 million in debt and have brought in about $1.2 million in average revenue over the last few years. What is a good debt-to-income ratio for a small business like mine?I need $175,000 to finish building our final home. My accountant suggested I borrow from one of my rental properties instead of taking it from my IRA and paying taxes. I'm struggling with that - I don't want the monthly payments. Should I just take the money from the IRA and pay the taxes or borrow from the rental property?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, a

Psalm 82:3 says, “Give justice to the poor and the orphan, uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute.”This powerful verse reminds us of our responsibility to care for those in need. Today, we turn our attention to a ministry doing just that—India Partners, which is providing hope and rescue to the oppressed in India.David Harms has devoted nearly a decade of ministry to the work of India Partners, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. With over 35 years of experience in rescuing victims of human trafficking, India Partners continues to make a profound impact on the lives of the most vulnerable.The Horrific Reality in IndiaIndia is a nation of contrasts—technologically advanced in many respects, yet home to nearly 300 million people living in extreme poverty. Among the most vulnerable are young girls, some as young as eight, who are trafficked into red-light districts and subjected to unimaginable horrors. These girls endure horrific conditions, facing abuse daily in slums filled with filth and open sewage. The purpose of this abuse is to break their spirits, forcing them to believe they have no escape and no hope of a future.India Partners, a ministry that has been rescuing victims of human trafficking for over 40 years, works tirelessly to save these young girls from this life of exploitation. Through their rescue efforts, they take these girls from the red-light districts to safe houses where they receive love, care, and, most importantly, the hope of Jesus.Safe Houses: A Place for HealingIndia Partners' safe houses offer full care, including room and board, private Christian education, medical attention, and trauma counseling. Each girl receives individual and group therapy to address the deep wounds inflicted upon them. Over time, these girls are not only physically rescued but spiritually healed, learning their true identity in Christ as beloved daughters of God.How You Can HelpAs stewards of God’s resources, we have a role to play in alleviating this suffering. You can partner with India Partners to bring hope and healing to these young girls. For just $8.89, you can underwrite a day of care for one girl. Visit IndiaPartners.org/faith to learn more and give generously.Your support of India Partners allows you to be the hands and feet of Jesus, offering rescue, healing, and hope to those in desperate need. Visit IndiaPartners.org/faith today and make a difference in the lives of India’s most vulnerable.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:We are buying a new home and selling our current home, which we purchased over 30 years ago for $100,000 and is now worth $500,000-$550,000. Will we have to pay capital gains tax on the sale?How do you determine whether a reverse mortgage would be beneficial?I own a condo with no mortgage and want to buy an investment property. The bankers are telling me to take out equity from my condo to do this, but I need clarification on this. Wouldn’t it be better to get a conventional or FHA loan for the investment property instead?In a divorce situation where one spouse was a stay-at-home parent for many years, what determines the obligation for spousal support or alimony, especially if that spouse has a disability and limited assets?Resources Mentioned:India PartnersMovement MortgageUnderstanding Reverse: Simplifying the Reverse Mortgage by Dan HultquistLook 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.

Marriage is a living relationship that requires constant care and attention. Dr. Gary Chapman, renowned author of The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts, highlights this in his resource, A Couple’s Guide to a Growing Marriage. This Bible study helps couples invest in their marriage with a structured, intentional approach, ensuring their relationship grows stronger.Working on your marriage benefits not just the couple but also their children and the broader community. Strong marriages create strong families, which have a positive impact on society. For Christian couples, it’s essential to follow biblical principles for marriage, as the Bible has much to say about how to nurture this sacred relationship.What’s In The Study?This 12-week Bible study includes:Weekly Activities and Bible Study: Each session starts with an opening activity and a Bible study focused on topics related to marriage and our relationship with God.Practical Exercises: Couples engage in learning exercises that apply biblical teachings to their relationship.Scripture Memorization: Memorizing verses helps reinforce the lessons learned.Daily Conversations: Couples are encouraged to have daily conversations with God and with each other, fostering open communication and deeper understanding.Topics covered include communication, expressing love, handling anger, and resolving conflicts—essential skills for any marriage.The Importance of CommunicationA key theme in the study is the importance of regular, honest communication. Marriages don’t drift together; they drift apart. Therefore, couples must intentionally spend time together, discuss their feelings, and address issues. By listening to each other with the goal of understanding, not arguing, couples can find solutions and strengthen their bond.Managing Finances TogetherOne chapter focuses on making money an asset to your marriage while stressing the importance of financial transparency and fidelity. Managing money together is a significant part of marriage, and disagreements over finances are common. The study encourages couples to align on issues like giving, saving, and spending while working as a team to manage household finances.The Win: A Stronger, Healthier MarriageCouples who commit to this study will be better equipped to nurture a loving, supportive, and united marriage. Not only will they benefit, but their children will also see a healthy model of financial and relational teamwork.Dr. Chapman’s A Couple’s Guide to a Growing Marriage offers a pathway to the marriage every couple dreams of—one built on love, trust, and shared faith.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a friend who buys a house a year and uses it for Airbnb. He's profitable. I'm just concerned about what they're talking about, the economy, and the changes that might happen. I would like to know your thoughts and an exit strategy should things go south.My husband and I are dairy farmers with operating and capital lines of credit. We've struggled to make progress on these lines in the last couple of years. We have some money in a Roth IRA that we're considering using to pay down the lines of credit, which now have an 8.5% interest rate. Would there be any tax consequences to withdrawing the Roth IRA funds?Resources Mentioned:A Couple's Guide to a Growing Marriage: A Bible Study by Dr. Gary ChapmanThe 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Dr. Gary ChapmanLook 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.

“Test everything; hold fast what is good.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:21In that verse, the Apostle Paul teaches that we should practice discernment in all things. We would include financial advice.One of the most common questions we receive is, "How can I choose a financial advisor who I can trust and who fits my financial situation?" Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to ensure you find someone reliable, especially by starting with a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA).At FaithFi, we recommend beginning your search with Kingdom Advisors. With over 1,600 CKAs, these professionals are skilled in various financial disciplines and share your Christian values. You can easily connect with one by visiting our website and clicking "Find a Professional."When selecting a financial advisor, we always recommend interviewing two or three candidates to find the best fit. Below are key questions to help guide your conversations.1. Experience and QualificationsHow long have you been in practice?What professional certifications do you hold?Can you tell me about your practice and areas of specialty?These questions help you understand their background and expertise, ensuring they’re experienced in the areas you need help with.2. Service ExpectationsWill you or an associate work with me directly?How long will it take to complete my work?What are your client response times and communication methods?These questions clarify what kind of service you’ll receive and help you set realistic expectations for timelines and communication.3. Referrals and ReputationDo you have clients in similar situations who might speak with me?Are you in good standing with your professional associations?Have you ever been cited for disciplinary reasons or had complaints filed against you?Asking about their reputation and seeking referrals ensures you work with someone respected and trustworthy.4. Compensation StructureHow are you compensated—fees, commissions, or both?Do you charge for initial consultations?What do you project my costs will be for your services?Understanding how fees are paid is critical. Ask how fees are structured and calculated to avoid surprises down the road.Take the Next StepChoosing the right financial advisor requires diligence. These questions will help you make an informed decision and find someone who aligns with your values and financial needs. We encourage you to begin your search with a Kingdom Advisor by visiting FaithFi.com and clicking “Find a Professional.”By following this process, you’ll connect with someone who offers expert financial advice and shares your faith and values.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:What is the minimum time frame to hold a losing stock before selling and reinvesting in a potentially different stock? Also, what would be a good resource to research the legitimacy and potential of a brand-new stock?I recently had two data breaches—one with my retirement fund and one with my bank. Both offered free credit monitoring services. Is it advisable to use both monitoring services at the same time? And is the CyEx company reputable?I'm recently retired, and I have a 9-year-old car that I really like. Some of my friends have recently purchased new cars, and I'm concerned about feeling pressured to buy an electric or hybrid vehicle. Is there an urgency for me to replace my older car that's still running well, or can I just stick with my current car?I'm retired and thinking of selling a rental property. How is the capital gains tax rate determined? Is it based on my total or adjusted gross income? If I have $400,000 in capital gains, would that get added to my other income to figure out the tax bracket?Resources Mentioned:Motley Fool | Morningstar | MarketWatch | Seeking Alpha | Yahoo FinanceAnnualCreditReport.com | Credit KarmaLook 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.