Faith & Finance

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.

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”- Proverbs 22:6God’s Word tells us that children should be taught early how to live wisely and righteously, including how to handle money. Howard Dayton is here to explain why it’s especially important to teach kids about the dangers of debt.Howard Dayton is the founder of Compass Financial Ministry and the former host of this program. He is also the author of a number of books on the topic of Christian Finance and Stewardship. The Little-Big Principle: Starting SmallThe Little-Big principle is based on Luke 16:10: “He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much.” This principle encourages parents to start small when teaching children about money. The idea is to give kids small amounts to manage, like nickels and dimes, and then gradually increase the amount as they prove responsible. Eventually, they’ll be prepared to manage larger amounts of money.Parents should aim to steadily increase their children’s financial responsibilities so that by the time they’re seniors in high school, they’re independently managing most of their finances, aside from essentials like food and shelter. They should also be as systematic in teaching children about money as schools teach them to read and write—starting with the basics and progressing over time.When children reach their junior year in high school, they should open a checking account and get a secured credit card. This allows them to learn critical skills, like reconciling budgets and paying off balances in full each month. Developing these habits early on can set them on a path to financial freedom and help them avoid debt throughout their lives.The MVP Parenting Method: Model, Verbalize, and Provide Practical OpportunitiesThe MVP method—modeling, verbal communication, and practical opportunities—is a very beneficial framework for teaching children about money. All three are essential for training children to be good stewards of God’s resources.1. ModelingParents must lead by example. In 1 Corinthians 11:1, Paul said, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” Children learn by watching their parents handle money wisely, so parents need to demonstrate sound financial stewardship. Whether budgeting, giving, or avoiding debt, children are more likely to adopt these habits when they see them modeled in everyday life.2. Verbal CommunicationThe Bible instructs us to teach our children about God’s ways consistently. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 encourages parents to impress God’s commandments upon their children and talk about them regularly. Parents should frequently discuss biblical financial principles with their kids, helping them understand how these truths apply to their own lives.3. Practical OpportunitiesGiving children opportunities to apply what they’ve learned is essential. Hands-on experiences help children understand the impact of debt in a tangible way.Resources for Financial DiscipleshipFor parents looking to dive deeper, Howard Dayton and Compass Financial Ministry offer a resource titled Financial Discipleship for Families: Intentionally Raising Faithful Children. This book provides more detailed guidance on teaching kids about finances from a biblical perspective and is available through Amazon or Compass Financial Ministry’s website.Teaching kids about money doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a process that requires modeling good habits, consistent communication, and providing practical opportunities for them to learn. By applying the Little-Big principle and becoming MVP parents, you can equip your children with the financial wisdom they need to be faithful stewards of God’s resources for a lifetime.For more tools and resources, visit Compass Financial Ministry at CompassFinancialMinistry.org. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've had some health issues over the last seven months, and my kids would like me to move out to Washington State. I found a lovely condo that interests me, but it's a co-op. I didn't know much about co-ops, so I would like to know if you have any words of wisdom for me about what I should be aware of when considering a co-op property.For the past three years, I've been giving through the required minimum distribution (RMD) program. My church has been happy to receive these funds, but I'm still working. I was told you don't have to take the RMD if you're still working. Is that true?I have an IRA and retirement account to be divided equally between my three children. One of my children's spouses does not handle money well. Can I set up a trust for that child's portion to distribute according to my wishes when I pass away? My son, the executor, doesn't want to do this because he's concerned it could cause problems.I have an old revocable trust, over 40 years old, that no longer reflects my current situation. Is there any way I can get rid of this trust without going through many steps or spending a lot of mo

The Fed is scheduled to meet next week. Will it lower interest rates again? With one rate cut already on the books and perhaps two more coming before the end of the year…folks are wondering what effect all this will have on mortgages and home sales. Dale Vermillion joins us today to talk about it.Dale Vermillion is the author of Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home. This book covers everything you need to know about securing a mortgage—all from a biblical perspective.Current Mortgage Rate TrendsWith recent shifts in the economy, many are wondering about mortgage rates and how decisions from the Federal Reserve impact them. While the Fed recently lowered interest rates by half a percent, the market already anticipated this move. Mortgage rates dropped nearly a full percent before the Fed’s decision, but they’ve since started to climb back up. Currently, the national average for mortgage rates sits between 6.30% and 6.40%, and experts predict that they will remain in the low to mid-6% range for the rest of the year.For those hoping rates drop below 5%, it’s unlikely to happen anytime soon. Leading analysts say we likely won’t see those numbers until 2025 or later.Despite the changes in interest rates, home sales have remained relatively flat. While there has been a slight increase in home purchases, with mortgage locks up by 8% from last year, the real activity may come from new construction. Existing homeowners are holding on to their properties due to the so-called "rate lock effect," where people are reluctant to sell because they have locked in low mortgage rates. However, once rates drop, we’ll most likely see a surge in home sales around 2025 and 2026.Should You Buy or Refinance Now?For those trying to decide whether to buy a home or refinance, there are pros and cons in every market, but several factors are working in favor of buyers right now:Lower Rates: While mortgage rates aren’t at historic lows, they are lower than they’ve been in recent years.Less Competition: With fewer buyers in the market, now is an opportune time to find a home without the fierce competition of a booming market.If you’re renting, it may be a good time to buy as long as you can afford the monthly payments. Buying a home builds equity and provides tax benefits, making it a financially sound decision for many.When it comes to refinancing, do not refinance if it means extending the term of your mortgage. Extending your loan term will wipe out any savings you gain from a lower rate, costing you tens of thousands of dollars in the long run. Only refinance if you can lower your payment while keeping or shortening your mortgage term.Seeking Wisdom in Home FinancingBiblical principles should guide all of our financial decisions, including home financing. Romans 13:8 tells us, "Owe no one anything except to love each other." This verse reminds us that as stewards of God’s resources, we should aim to live debt-free and manage our finances responsibly.Navigating the mortgage market can be challenging, but by staying informed and grounded in biblical principles, you can make wise decisions that honor God and secure your financial future. Whether buying your first home or considering a refinance, start with a budget and avoid taking on unnecessary debt. Always ensure your financial decisions align with God’s Word and your long-term financial goals.For more insights on mortgage financing and faith-based financial wisdom, you can explore Dale’s book, Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home, and continue to seek guidance on making informed, biblically sound decisions in your financial life.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I need to change investment companies from Vanguard, as they are becoming more digital-focused. I'm looking for a company that offers a directed beneficiary program where I can designate beneficiaries per account and a simple process for Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCD) where I can call and request a check be sent directly to the charity.I have existing investments and a financial advisor. I heard you discuss investing in companies aligned with biblical values. Can you provide a resource or recommendation for identifying companies or funds that match those values if I still need to be invested in them?I have two insurance policies, and they are burial policies for my wife and I. They're about $200 between the two monthly and $25,000 each. I'm questioning whether I would be better off just adding that money to my investments or keeping my insurance. I'm 63, my wife is 65, and we're in pretty good health, but I hope we have quite a few more years before that would be necessary.We're at the point in our lives where we need to downsize, so I was wondering if we need to tithe on our sale before investing in another primary residence when we sell our primary home and purchase another one.Resources Mentioned:Navigating the Mortgage Maze:

Why do you suppose Jesus had so much to say about money and possessions?Our Lord and Savior knew that how we handle money can reveal our spiritual priorities. Every financial decision has a spiritual component, which can even be true of our investing. Bob Doll joins us today to answer, “Why should we strive for faith-based money management?”Bob Doll is the CEO and CIO of Crossmark Global Investments. He regularly contributes to Faith and Finance and other media outlets, such as Bloomberg TV, Fox Business, and CNBC. The Mission of Crossmark Global InvestmentsCrossmark Global Investments is one of the few faith-based money management companies dedicated to helping people align their investments with their faith and values. They are faith-based money managers helping people align their investments with their faith or values while still achieving good investment performance. The goal is not just financial gain but to ensure investments reflect biblical principles. Crossmark offers both screened and unscreened products to cater to diverse client needs, always seeking to provide risk-adjusted returns that align with Christian values.Types of Investment Solutions: Steward Funds and Separately Managed AccountsCrossmark’s investment solutions fall into two main categories: Steward Funds and Separately Managed Accounts (SMAs). Steward Funds are mutual funds designed to reflect biblical values by screening out companies whose business practices conflict with Christian principles. Crossmark currently offers nine such funds, covering a wide range of stocks and bonds.Separately Managed Accounts allow for even more customization. Investors can exclude specific industries or companies that conflict with their personal convictions or include sectors they wish to support. Crossmark also offers unscreened investments for those who prefer to focus solely on financial performance. These flexible solutions allow investors to have a truly personalized faith-based portfolio.What Is Faith-Based Investing?Faith-based investing (FBI), or biblically responsible investing (BRI), integrates Christian values into financial decision-making. Investing is just one part of life, but all aspects of life should be aligned with God's Word. It’s a matter of holiness and becoming more Christlike.This isn’t just about avoiding “bad” investments (like companies involved in industries that don’t align with biblical values). It’s also about positively investing in companies that act responsibly toward employees, communities, and the environment.It also encourages us to think about the moral implications of our investments. How we earn, spend, and invest money reflects our hearts and faith. Aligning investments with Christian values is a practical way to live out our faith. By doing this, investors can be good stewards of God’s gifts and honor Him in their financial decisions.Dispelling the Myth: Do Faith-Based Investments Sacrifice Performance?One common misconception is that faith-based investing requires sacrificing financial returns. Studies from institutions like Wharton, Oxford, and Biola University have shown that faith-based portfolios can perform just as well as secular ones. Crossmark’s portfolio managers are measured against the same benchmarks as other investors, ensuring that faith-based investments can provide competitive returns.It is essential to work with someone who understands the importance of aligning financial decisions with your faith. Kingdom-minded financial advisors, like those certified by the Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) program, specialize in helping Christians invest in ways that reflect biblical values.Aligning Your Investments with God’s WordCrossmark Global Investments offers a range of solutions, from mutual funds to customized accounts, that allow individuals to invest in a way that reflects their faith.As Christians, we must view money as a resource entrusted to us by God. By aligning our investments with His Word, we can ensure that our financial decisions honor God and serve others. We don’t have to choose between financial success and faithfulness—we can have both.To learn more about Crossmark Global Investments or faith-based investing, visit CrossmarkGlobal.com and explore the resources available to help you align your values with your financial goals.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a small inheritance of $40,000 coming soon, and I’d either like to invest that into a rental property, like a three-bedroom residential home, or maybe just drop it into a mutual fund. I found that the FXALX fund with Fidelity has a really low expense ratio and is highly rated. I'm trying to get the best return on my investment.I just turned 66 and plan to file for Social Security in 6 months. I have a good income of $100,000 per year but no pension. I would like to be debt-free in retirement. Would it be a good idea to use my Social Security benefits over the next couple of years to pay off my mortgages

If you’re self-employed, a contractor, or a small business owner, you’re probably familiar with the ups and downs of variable income. In some months, your earnings may exceed your expectations, while in others, they may fall short. This makes budgeting a little more complex—but not impossible! Let’s walk through how to create a budget tailored to your fluctuating income.Start by Finding Your Average IncomeThe first step is to look at what you know. Review your income from the past six to 12 months and total it. Then, divide that total by the number of months to find your average monthly income. This figure will serve as the foundation for your budget, helping you set realistic expectations. You’ll make more than this average in some months, and in others, you'll make less. That’s okay—as long as you plan for it.Save Excess Income for Lean MonthsHere’s the critical piece: In the months you earn more than your average, save the excess. This savings will buffer those lean months when you don’t meet your income target. Even when you have extra at the end of the month, resist the urge to spend it. Treat your budgeted amount as your spending limit, and let the surplus bolster your savings.One effective way to manage this process is to funnel all your income into savings and set up an automatic transfer of your budgeted amount into checking each month. This way, you only spend from checking and staying within your budget.As you get started, you might find your budget doesn’t quite match your actual spending. That’s normal. Track your spending closely and revisit your income average every six months to make necessary adjustments. Over time, your budget will become more accurate as you get a better handle on your fluctuating income.Tips for Building Your BudgetWhether your income is variable or steady, here are a few tips to set up your budget successfully:Track Your Spending: Begin by recording every single expense for 30 days, no matter how small.Plan for Non-Recurring Expenses: Don’t forget those irregular costs like annual fees or holiday gifts. Divide them by 12 and include them in your monthly budget to avoid surprises.Build a Category-Based Budget: Once you’ve tracked your spending and considered non-recurring expenses, group your spending into categories. Tools like the FaithFi app can help with this step.Bring Your Budget in Line with Your GoalsOnce you’ve drafted your budget, ensure it aligns with your financial goals and priorities. If your spending exceeds your income, it’s time to trim back and make changes. Discretionary spending—like dining out, entertainment, and shopping—is often the first place to cut. The FaithFi app’s digital envelope system can help manage these areas effectively.It’s tempting to think that budgeting isn’t necessary, especially if it feels complicated or tedious. But the truth is, living without a budget makes spending less than you earn nearly impossible—and that’s key to financial success. Without a solid budget, debt can creep in, and saving for the future becomes challenging.A budget, or spending plan, gives every dollar a purpose. It allows you to maximize your giving and saving while ensuring your spending reflects your values.Biblical Principles for Wise Money ManagementWhether you earn a little or a lot, it’s important to remember that we’re called to be wise stewards of the resources God has given us. Proverbs 27:23 reminds us to “know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds.” For us, this means knowing how much money is coming in, how much is going out, and where it’s going.A spending plan helps us faithfully manage God’s resources. With a little planning and discipline, even those with variable incomes can have a budget that honors God and sets them up for financial success.By following these steps, you’ll discover that budgeting with a variable income is possible and can lead to a life of greater financial peace and generosity.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My wife and I are looking to make a budget. Since we can't use Mint anymore, we're considering the envelope system to track our spending in real-time and avoid overspending. What are your thoughts on that compared to other budgeting methods?I have a Roth account, and I need to withdraw about $55,000 to pay for a piece of land I'm buying. The money I'd like to withdraw that's not already in stocks would be from a maturing CD. Can I temporarily withdraw $55,000 from the Roth account until the CD matures and then pay it back?My brother is 66 and plans to work until he's 70. He wants to be able to save some kind of fund after he's gone to help his adult autistic son, who lives in a group home. What would you recommend as the best way for him to set that up?I've read Ron Blue's book ‘Splitting Heirs.’ Could you recommend any other resources I could study to prepare to talk with my adult children about God's will and the estate plan I've set up?Someone mentioned that a spo

There’s a saying, “Any port in a storm.” Does that apply to your savings?The economic waters seem choppy these days, so where’s a safe harbor for your savings that still gives you a return? Aaron Caid helps you plot a course for your money today.Aaron Caid is the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. Understanding Savings OptionsIf you've ever wondered which one is right for you, here are the basics of each type of account so you can determine which best suits your needs. Savings Accounts: The BasicsSavings accounts are a safe, insured, and highly liquid option. Most people use them in tandem with checking accounts, making them ideal for new or low-dollar savers. One downside is that interest rates can be lower than other products, as they fluctuate with market conditions. However, CCCU offers a high-yield savings account that provides competitive returns and is a great option for those looking to grow their savings.Money Market Accounts: A Step-UpMoney market accounts are another safe and insured option. These accounts often provide higher interest rates than savings accounts, and the more you deposit, the higher the rate you’ll typically receive. However, it’s important to distinguish between money market accounts (which are insured) and money market mutual funds (which are not). Money market accounts are an excellent option for those with larger balances who are still looking for liquidity.Certificates of Deposit (CDs): Locked-in RatesCDs are a solid choice for those seeking higher interest rates and willing to lock their money away for a set period. These accounts offer fixed rates for terms ranging from a few months to several years. While CDs are less liquid—meaning withdrawing early can lead to penalties—they provide stability and typically offer better returns than savings or money market accounts. CCCU offers various CD options that align well with long-term savings goals.U.S. Savings Bonds: Safe, But Long-TermU.S. savings bonds offer another secure savings option backed by the U.S. government. A unique benefit is that earnings are often exempt from state and local taxes, and some bonds adjust with inflation, providing a hedge against rising costs. However, bonds are a long-term commitment with maturities typically lasting 20 to 30 years. While they’re less liquid, with penalties for early withdrawal, they can be a solid option for those with a long time horizon.Choosing the Right Option for YouSo, how do you choose the right savings vehicle? There are three key factors to consider:Time Horizon: How long can you let the money sit before you need it?Liquidity Needs: Do you need immediate access to your funds?Risk Tolerance: Are you comfortable with the stability of your savings, or are you seeking higher returns with more risk?Why Choose Christian Community Credit Union?CCCU has been a trusted banking partner for Christians for over 67 years. Not only are deposits insured up to $250,000, but they also have competitive rates on high-yield savings, money market, and CD accounts. To date, they have donated more than $6 million to ministry and mission projects in the U.S. and around the globe. Simply put, your everyday purchases help change lives.If you want to learn more, visit joinchristiancommunity.com to explore your savings options with a faith-based approach.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've got a couple of IRAs, a 403(b) from when I was in the ministry, and a 401(k) that I'm actively contributing to at work. I'm almost 60 and unsure when I want to retire, but it probably won't be at 67. Should I start looking for more safe investments? And how should I go about combining these different accounts?My husband's company offers him early retirement at 62, with a lump sum payout of over $900,000 or a monthly income of $72,000 per year for life. We're concerned about the tax implications of each option and how it would affect us if he later decides to take Social Security, even though he's planning to wait to do that.Someone told me I could collect on my husband's Social Security, even though I'm 68, and he's 61 and still working. My benefits are low since I was a stay-at-home mom and only had a little work experience outside the home. Is it true that I can get up to 50% of his Social Security benefits?Resources Mentioned:Christian Community Credit UnionList 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 r

“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.” - Matthew 6:24Serving two masters is not merely an economic or social concern but is profoundly spiritual. It touches on what it means to be a follower of Christ, challenging us to examine what truly governs our lives. Taylor Standridge joins us today to talk about it.Taylor Standridge is the Production Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance and the co-author of Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety.Overcoming Financial Anxiety with FaithMany struggle with financial worries—bills, job security, or retirement savings—leading to sleepless nights and constant stress and anxiety. Look at the Sparrows addresses these concerns by guiding readers through biblical teachings that reveal a path to peace. It emphasizes that true security doesn’t come from money but from trusting in God’s provision and grace. This 21-day devotional reminds us of God’s love and His role as our ultimate source of security.Serving God vs. Serving MoneyOne key theme in Look at the Sparrows is the contrast between serving God and serving money, inspired by Jesus’s teachings in Matthew 6. While not inherently bad, money often represents worldly values like wealth, power, and status that can draw us away from God. The devotional encourages readers to recognize that money is a tool—a good gift from God to be used for His purposes. However, if we believe money can provide the security and identity that only God offers, it can become a form of idolatry that distracts us from a life centered on faith.Larry Burkett put it well:“The love of money is a form of idol worship, just as surely as the worship of pagan images. It is not the money that is the problem; it’s the attitude toward it.”The Bible has 2,350 verses about money and stewardship because money often competes with God for our trust and loyalty. Ecclesiastes 5:10 is a stark reminder for all who are chasing after wealth’s promise of satisfaction: “He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income; this also is vanity.” - Ecclesiastes 5:10Pursuing wealth always leaves people empty, while a life focused on God’s provision leads to true fulfillment.Danger Signs You May Be Serving MoneyThe devotional offers practical guidance to help believers identify when money might be taking priority over God:Prioritizing Work Over God: If making money takes precedence over nurturing your relationship with God or serving others, it may be a sign that money has become an idol. Pastor Josh Teis puts it well: “If rest feels like a sin, work is an idol.”Never Feeling Satisfied: Constantly wanting more and never feeling content with what you have can indicate that money holds too much power in your life.Reluctance to Give Generously: If giving feels like a burden or you struggle to be generous, it may reflect an unhealthy attachment to money and a lack of trust in God’s provision.Shifting from a Scarcity Mindset to AbundanceThe “scarcity mindset” often underlies financial anxiety. Scarcity can lead us to focus on our own needs, creating envy and conflict. Yet, Scripture calls us to a different approach—one of generosity and trust in God’s abundance. As Paul teaches in Philippians 2:3, we are to “count others more significant than ourselves,” living with a spirit of selflessness.Jesus exemplifies this mindset in stories like The Feeding of the 5,000 (Matthew 14:13-21), where He provided for the crowd’s immediate needs and did so with abundance, leaving twelve baskets of leftovers. This act of generosity illustrates God’s ability to exceed expectations, reminding us that His provision is more than enough.In times of financial stress, Look at the Sparrows invites readers to trust God’s endless generosity and shift their perspective from scarcity to abundance. As we align our hearts with this truth, we open ourselves to a life where we see God as the ultimate provider and experience the joy and peace that come from His love.How to Get a Copy of Look at the SparrowsIf you want to transform your approach to money through faith and find peace in God’s provision, you can request a copy of Look at the Sparrows by making a gift of $25 or more at FaithFi.com/sparrows. Those who become a FaithFi Partner at $35 per month can receive the devotional before it’s available to the general public.You can also purchase individual copies or place bulk orders for your church or small group as well. Explore this journey through Scripture and discover how to move from financial fear to a life anchored in trust and generosity.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm a grandmother, and I have an 80-year-old grandson. I'm trying to get him started in investing. I'm considering gifting him a stock, like Apple or Walmart, but I also want to be biblically responsible. Can you provide

These days, more workers are opting to stay on the job after signing up for Social Security.The percentage of Americans over 65 who are still working has doubled since 1980. Of course, many of them also get security benefits. Eddie Holland is here to explain how working affects the monthly benefit check.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®).The Impact of Earnings on Social Security Before Full Retirement AgeIf you begin drawing Social Security before reaching your full retirement age (FRA) and continue working, your benefits may be subject to an earnings test. Here’s how it works:Under Full Retirement Age: For 2024, the income limit is $22,320. If your earnings exceed this limit, Social Security reduces your benefits by $1 for every $2 earned above the threshold.Year You Reach Full Retirement Age: The earnings limit increases to $59,520, with a reduced penalty of $1 for every $3 earned above the limit.After Reaching Full Retirement Age: Once you reach FRA, there is no longer an earnings limit, and your benefits will not be reduced regardless of your income.Will You Get Reduced Benefits Back?A key point is that if your benefits are reduced due to exceeding the earnings limit before reaching FRA, those reductions are temporary. Once you reach full retirement age, the Social Security Administration recalculates your benefit amount, potentially increasing your monthly payment to compensate for the prior reductions.After reaching full retirement age, you can increase your Social Security benefit through continued work. Social Security calculates your benefits based on your highest 35 years of earnings. If your current income is higher than one of the years included in your "high 35," the Social Security Administration will adjust your benefit amount the following year, reflecting your new earnings record.Understanding Tax ImplicationsSocial Security benefits may be subject to federal taxes, depending on your “combined income”—a calculation that includes your adjusted gross income, tax-exempt interest, and half of your Social Security benefits. Here’s a quick breakdown:No Tax: Social Security benefits are not taxed for single filers with combined income under $25,000 and married couples under $32,000.Up to 85% Taxable: For single filers earning over $34,000 and couples over $44,000, up to 85% of Social Security benefits may be taxed.One strategy for reducing taxes on Social Security benefits, especially for those 70½ or older, is using a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). This allows individuals to transfer up to $100,000 per year directly from their IRA to a charity, which can count toward their required minimum distribution and is excluded from taxable income. It’s a great way to support causes you care about while managing your tax burden.If you plan to work while receiving Social Security benefits, understanding how income limits and taxes affect your benefits is crucial. These guidelines can help you make informed decisions about when to claim benefits and how to maximize your income. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I received insurance death benefits, and my sister also and I received insurance death benefits. Are they subject to tithing? What’s the Christian perspective on this?I'm a single mom making $45,000 a year as a chaplain. I also have to financially support my mom, who is not good with finances. It's frustrating because she can't get ahead, and I'm worried about our future and preparing for my daughter and myself. Do you have any suggestions on how I can help my mom with her finances?My husband and I have looked into Christian Community Credit Union. You've talked about them before, but we noticed they are not FDIC-insured and wondered if that was a concern.Resources Mentioned:BlueTrustChristian Community Credit UnionLook 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 you shall rejoice in all the good that the Lord your God has given to you and to your house…“ - Deuteronomy 26:11God is worthy of all the praise we can give Him, but that’s not the only reason to be grateful for His blessings. Sharon Epps is here to tell us what happens when we rejoice in God’s provision.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.The Connection Between Gratitude and GenerosityTrue generosity begins with a sense of gratitude. This gratitude comes from recognizing that we are made in God's image. As His image-bearers, we are inherently wired with traits like generosity. However, generosity is difficult to practice without first appreciating all that God has given us. We must take the time to regularly practice being grateful for life itself, our families, friends, and the resources God has entrusted to us. Most importantly, we should cherish the gift of Jesus Christ, who offers us eternal life.Living a grateful life involves intentional practices. One method that can help with this is keeping a gratitude journal. By taking a few minutes a day to write down a few things you are grateful for, you can find healing and growth. Cultivating this habit with discipline will help you maintain a thankful perspective, even when life is tough.How Gratitude Fuels GenerosityGratitude transforms how we see our resources, allowing us to live with an open hand. When we recognize that everything she has comes from God, it becomes easier to hold things loosely, knowing that God is our true provider. This perspective shift also helps us see new ways to be generous beyond financial giving. For example, gratitude can encourage us to practice hospitality, and appreciation for our unique skills can motivate us to use them to serve others. Ultimately, gratitude leads to humility, which makes us more aware of others' needs and eager to help.Keeping Gratitude at the Heart of ThanksgivingWith Thanksgiving approaching, families must keep gratitude central during their celebrations. Simple but meaningful activities like going around the table and sharing what each person is thankful for. Another favorite idea is creating “construction paper placemats,” where each family member writes down a gratitude message for others. These activities help foster a spirit of thankfulness and bring families closer together during the holiday.Grateful living can transform our lives and our giving. By recognizing God’s gifts, expressing gratitude, and using our resources generously, we can impact others in meaningful ways. As we approach Thanksgiving, let’s make gratitude the foundation of our celebrations and carry that spirit with us throughout the year.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My wife and I are inheriting a significant amount of money, including $50,000 cash, $200,000 in stocks, and $600,000 in mutual funds. We have limited long-term savings and only a car loan as debt. Should I work with the CKA (Certified Kingdom Advisor) with whom we have an appointment or open a Schwab account independently? How should we manage this inheritance?I'm looking for CD rates that are comparable to my Christian beliefs. Can you provide guidance on where I can find Christian-aligned banking options for CDs?I'm a single mom of three children with a limited income. I was wondering how I could raise my credit score. What are some steps I can take to improve my credit score?Resources Mentioned:Bankrate.comChristian Credit CounselorsChristian Community Credit UnionAnnualCreditReport.comLook 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.

If you think there’s only one way to pay for healthcare, maybe it’s time to think outside the box of health insurance.Of course, health insurance is a great thing to have, but is it necessarily the best way to pay for healthcare costs? Lauren Gajdek joins us today to discuss medical cost sharing and how it might be a better option.Lauren Gajdek is the Vice President of Communications and Media at Christian Healthcare Ministries, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. What Are People Looking for in Healthcare?Many people are searching for options beyond traditional health insurance. CHM members often seek three key elements:Freedom to Choose Providers: Members value the ability to select their healthcare providers, especially those they trust, without being restricted by a network.Faith-Aligned Solutions: They want a healthcare solution that aligns with their Christian beliefs, which can be hard to find in conventional insurance plans.Lower Costs: Cost is a major factor, and many people are looking for more affordable ways to manage their medical expenses.CHM meets these needs by offering a healthcare solution that allows members to choose their providers and emphasizes a biblical approach to sharing medical expenses.Flexibility in Choosing ProvidersOne significant difference with CHM is that it does not restrict members to a specific network of providers. This freedom is especially valuable in emergencies or when traveling, allowing members to access care without worrying about whether a provider is “in-network.” While they can assist members in finding cost-effective providers for planned procedures, the final choice remains with the member, offering a level of autonomy that traditional insurance often lacks.How Does Medical Cost Sharing Work?Medical cost sharing through CHM allows members greater control over their healthcare decisions. Unlike traditional insurance, no pre-approvals are required. If a medical expense falls within their guidelines, it becomes eligible for sharing among the membership. This means that decisions about care are made by the doctor and the patient without the bureaucracy typically associated with insurance.Why Is CHM More Affordable?CHM is often more cost effective than traditional health insurance due to its unique structure:Self-Pay Discounts: Members can request self-pay discounts, significantly reducing medical costs. Because it operates as a nonprofit ministry rather than an insurance company, these discounts are a vital part of its strategy to lower costs.Strong Provider Relationships: With over 40 years of experience, CHM has built relationships with healthcare providers, allowing them to negotiate better rates for services behind the scenes.The Importance of a Faith-Based ApproachCHM’s foundation as a Christian ministry is central to its identity. The organization’s mission is rooted in biblical principles, emphasizing the importance of sharing each other’s medical burdens. This focus on community and mutual support makes them unique in healthcare solutions. It is a reminder that ministry comes first.CHM offers a flexible, faith-based alternative for managing healthcare costs, making it appealing to many believers. To learn more about how medical cost-sharing works or explore their services, visit chministries.org/faith.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a two-flat apartment building that's worth $700,000. We were offered to sell it, and we're looking at another apartment building in another area for $625,000. I wanted to know what it would cost me to sell mine for $700,000 and buy the other for $625,000. I've never sold a building, so I am still determining what to expect.My son struggles to pay the bills for his business, and he's taken out several payday loans to make ends meet. He needs to connect with someone who can give him business financial guidance or possibly look into debt consolidation. Do you have any suggestions?I'm selling a home and would like to know where to start with everything. I know I need an emergency fund and want to help the children. I also want to put money into another home I'm going into. I don't know where to start with all of this, as it's all new for me since my husband passed away.I've been told there's a way to get a free credit report. I understand the government requires it, but I'm uncomfortable using the internet. Please tell me how I can get my free credit report.Resources Mentioned:Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM)Wise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan, JD.AnnualCreditReport.comLook 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 R

If you bought a house in the last couple of years, you’ve probably been wondering, “When can I refinance?”The Federal Reserve has already made one interest rate cut, and more are expected before the end of the year. So when will it make sense to refinance your mortgage?If you’re considering refinancing your mortgage, it’s crucial to weigh various factors before making a decision. Movement Mortgage provides a helpful article, "Refinancing? Calculate Your Break-Even Point First!", which explains when refinancing makes sense and how to determine if it's right for you. While lower interest rates are a common reason to refinance, it’s not the only factor to consider.What Is the Break-Even Point?One effective way to decide if refinancing is a good move is by calculating your "break-even point." This is when the savings from your lower monthly mortgage payments equal the costs of refinancing, which can range from 2% to 5% of the loan amount. Knowing this number can clarify how long it will take before you start to see financial benefits from the refinance.For example, if you’re refinancing a $200,000 mortgage, the closing costs might range from $4,000 to $10,000. If your new mortgage payment saves you $200 per month, it would take 20 to 50 months to break even. If it takes over 60 months to reach your break-even point, it might be wise to hold off on refinancing until rates improve further.Factors Impacting Your Break-Even PointSeveral costs can impact your break-even point, including:Application and Origination Fees: Costs for processing your loan.Appraisal Fees: The cost of assessing your home's current value.Title and Insurance Fees: Includes title search, title insurance, and other required reports.Prepaid Interest: Covers interest from the closing date to the end of the first month.Property taxes and homeowners insurance may also need to be paid upfront at closing, contributing to the total closing costs. The more you save in interest each month, the quicker you’ll reach your break-even point.Shorter Loan Terms Lead to Faster SavingsChoosing a shorter loan term, like refinancing from a 30-year to a 15-year mortgage, can help you reach your break-even point faster. Shorter terms typically come with lower interest rates, which means you’ll pay off the refinance costs sooner and less in interest over the life of the loan. However, it’s important not to extend the term of your mortgage when refinancing, as doing so could result in paying more interest over time.How Long Will You Stay in the Home?Another critical consideration is your future plans. You may not benefit from refinancing if you plan to sell the home in a few years. Use the break-even point calculation to determine if it aligns with your timeline. If you break even after 24 months but intend to sell the home in 18 months, there may be better choices than refinancing.Refinancing can be smart when interest rates drop, but it’s essential to calculate your break-even point and consider your long-term plans. Whether you’re reducing monthly payments or aligning with your future goals, these steps can help you make a wise decision for your financial well-being.Movement Mortgage: A Christian Mortgage OptionMovement Mortgage is a Christian-founded company that has donated over $377 million to communities in the U.S. and abroad. Their efforts include providing trained service dogs for veterans and supporting local churches with ministry resources. When you refinance through Movement Mortgage, your payments help fund these initiatives, making a difference beyond your financial goals.For more information on refinancing and calculating your break-even point, visit Movement.com/faith.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've got a mutual fund called a capital appreciation fund that uses both stocks and dividends. Can I use the dividends to get into more cash than I am in the stock and be safe?I have my finances set up in a trust. Within that trust investment setup, I have a Roth IRA and a traditional IRA. My parents have passed away, and I've gotten a portion of the inheritance, with more yet to come. Do I need both the Roth IRA and traditional IRA, or should I eliminate one of them?I'm self-employed, and my wife doesn't work, so I'm ensuring I do a good job saving for retirement. I'm almost 40 years old, and I have a Roth IRA. There are some years when I have more to set aside than what my Roth IRA can accept. What is my second choice after the Roth IRA for those years when I have additional funds to save for retirement?My mom, sister, and I have our names on a home. What will happen when my mom passes away? My sister says we will automatically be able to divide her portion, but I wanted to check with you on that. I'm not sure how the home is titled—is it with the right of survivorship or joint tenants?Resources Mentioned:Movement MortgageRefinancing? Calculate Your Break-Even Point First! (Movement Mortgage Article)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Dev

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” - Ephesians 4:29Have you ever wanted to take back words, maybe even right after saying them? We often use the phrase, “That came out wrong.” Kathleen Edelman joins us today to talk about getting communication right the first time.Kathleen Edelman is the author of “I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication.” She is certified in Biblical Studies and Christian Counseling Psychology and has spent more than 30 years coaching clients in the art of communication.Temperament vs. Personality: What’s the Difference?Many of us think of communication in terms of personality, but temperament is actually a concept rooted in ancient studies by Hippocrates. While personality is shaped by factors like life experiences and birth order, temperament is hardwired and unchangeable—like your eye color or fingerprint.Temperament defines how we naturally respond to various situations. Understanding it can transform how we approach everything, from relationships to finances.The Four Temperaments: What Are They?Kathleen’s work breaks down temperaments into four distinct categories, each with its own language and motivations. Here's a brief overview:Sanguine (Yellow): These individuals are motivated by people and fun. Their financial goals are often tied to exciting future plans, like saving for a dream vacation.Choleric (Red): Cholerics are goal-driven visionaries. Give them a financial target, and they’ll hit it with precision, always eager to set the next goal.Melancholic (Blue): Melancholics crave safety and order. They plan meticulously, ensuring that they are financially prepared for all eventualities.Phlegmatic (Green): Phlegmatics seek harmony and tend to have a laid-back attitude toward money. They are often the most challenging to get on a budget but can be motivated by long-term, meaningful goals.Communication and Finances: The ConnectionUnderstanding your own temperament—and that of your spouse or financial advisor—can lead to more effective communication, especially when it comes to managing money. For example, if you are married to a melancholic, they’ll want to feel financially safe, which means they’ll be focused on saving and planning for the future. Conversely, a sanguine needs a fun or people-centered motivation to stick to a financial plan.By learning to "speak" each other's language, couples can create harmony in their finances, much like they do in other areas of their relationship.Strengths, Weaknesses, and Innate NeedsEach temperament has a set of strengths and weaknesses. While our weaknesses may seem burdensome, they help us appreciate and manage our strengths. For example, a melancholic’s focus on safety can sometimes lead to anxiety, but when managed well, it ensures a secure financial future.Another concept we should familiarize ourselves with is "innate needs"—non-negotiable motivators that drive each temperament. Knowing these needs can improve communication and reduce conflict in relationships, particularly when discussing money.Ephesians 4:29 reminds us:“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”Let’s choose our words wisely, building others up according to their temperament and needs.A Path to Stronger Communication and Financial HarmonyUnderstanding your temperament and how it colors your communication can profoundly impact your relationships and finances. God has wired each of us uniquely, and by recognizing and respecting these differences, we can better serve and love one another—especially when it comes to managing our money.If you're ready to explore the connection between temperament and communication further, Kathleen’s book I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication is available wherever books are sold. If you’re interested in going deeper, the book also includes a workbook designed to be completed over six weeks. Through this six-week study, complete with videos and exercises, Kathleen helps individuals and couples uncover their temperaments, allowing for countless “aha” moments. You can also take the Temperament Assessment to discover your unique temperament and learn how to communicate more effectively with others.Whether navigating a marriage, managing finances, or simply trying to understand your communication style, this resource offers practical tools for lasting change.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've messed up my life with credit card debt, auto loans, and furniture loans. I want to clean up my financial life and live debt-free as soon as possible. Where do I start?Is there a maximum that you can give in an RMD and a calendar year?Resources Mentioned:I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Commun

Employment scams skyrocketed last year, increasing by nearly 120%. Would you be able to spot one?The FTC routinely handles thousands of employment scam complaints each year, but that number is rising dramatically as technology makes conning job seekers easier for online thieves.The Bible warns us about living in a hostile and deceptive world. In Matthew 10:16, Jesus reminds us: “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.”This means we are called to live innocently, doing no harm, but also to practice discernment and wisdom to avoid harm—especially in areas like employment and finances.One piece of advice that’s particularly useful, especially when money is involved, is: “If something looks too good to be true, it probably is.” This simple principle can help protect you from many employment scams that prey on your trust. But with today’s AI advancements, some scams have become more challenging to spot.Artificial intelligence has made it easier for scammers to generate fake job listings and convincing recruitment messages. According to the Identity Theft Resource Center, AI can help scammers polish their “pitch,” making it more persuasive and compensating for language and cultural differences. Unfortunately, victims of these scams lose an average of nearly $2,000.Common Employment Scams to Watch Out ForHere are some of the most common employment scams you might encounter:Work-from-home scams: With the rise of remote work, scammers target those seeking home-based jobs by offering fake opportunities.Repackaging and reshipping scams: These scams involve sending merchandise from your home, with con artists getting you to send money in the process.Virtual personal assistant scams: A fake employer claims they need help with administrative tasks, but their real goal is to steal personal information.Mystery shopper scams: These fake job offers entice you to pay upfront for “training” or “supplies,” but the job never materializes.Job placement scams: Scammers ask for a fee to place you in a job but disappear after receiving your payment.Government and postal job scams: These scams claim to offer government jobs in exchange for a fee or personal information.Scammers often post these fake job listings on reputable websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and other job search platforms, making it harder to tell what’s real and what’s not. The rise of remote work since the pandemic has also made job seekers more comfortable with digital-only interactions, but this comes with its own set of risks.Red Flags to Watch ForAccording to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), here’s what you can do to protect yourself:Don’t assume safety on well-known job search platforms. Just because a listing is on a reputable site doesn’t mean it’s legitimate.Independently verify the company and its hiring process. Always research the company before accepting an offer.Be cautious if you didn’t initiate contact. If a recruiter contacts you out of the blue, verify their credentials directly with the company.Digital-only interactions are a red flag. While many interviews are conducted online, be wary of jobs that involve only digital communication.Beware of check scams. Honest employers won’t send you a check to buy supplies and then ask you to return the leftover money. This is a common fake check scam.Too-good-to-be-true offers. High pay for little work is another major warning sign, especially if personal or financial information is required early in the process.How to Protect YourselfIf you spot any of these red flags, it’s wise to walk away. However, you can also verify if a job is legitimate by doing an online search of the company or person offering the position. Add words like “scam,” “review,” or “complaint” to your search. While not finding complaints doesn’t automatically make the job offer legitimate, finding plenty of complaints is a sure sign that it’s a scam.If you believe you’ve encountered a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Additionally, if you found the suspicious job listing on a reputable platform like LinkedIn or Indeed, be sure to report the listing to the site.By staying alert and using discernment, you can protect yourself from employment scams in a world that sometimes feels like it’s full of wolves. Take these precautions, trust your instincts, and stay safe.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Can I do a quick claim deed to remove my son from the deed after I pay off the house so that the house goes to all five of my kids instead of just him?My grandpa has chosen to invest his money in a commemorative coin collection that he's been growing over the years. He's asked my aunt and me to take the coins before he passes, find out their value, and sell that money for him. I'm still determining where to turn to ascertain the value and get the most for his investment

Many rules come with exceptions. Perhaps that’s nowhere more true than with financial decisions.In most situations, paying off the mortgage and becoming debt-free is the right decision, but it may not be possible for everyone. Harlan Accola joins us today to discuss “red doors” and exceptions to the rule.Harlan Accola is the National Reverse Mortgage Director at Movement Mortgage, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. He is also the author of Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement.The Meaning Behind Red DoorsRed doors have rich historical significance. In biblical times, red signified safety and protection, as seen with the Israelites marking their doors during the Passover. In Scottish tradition, a red door symbolized that a home was mortgage-free—a point of pride. Early Americans painted their doors red to signal a place of rest for weary travelers.While red doors symbolize safety and accomplishment, it’s important to rethink what safety truly means. Is safety just about paying off your mortgage? Or could it also mean being able to stay in your home, meet your needs, and share your blessings with others as you age?Reverse Mortgages and Financial StewardshipFor many seniors, having a mortgage-free home is a milestone of God’s provision. However, a reverse mortgage (HECM) can provide additional safety, especially for those struggling to make ends meet. It allows seniors to draw income from their home equity and stay in their homes while meeting their financial needs.Seniors over 62 have over $13 trillion in home equity—a massive untapped resource. For some, a reverse mortgage could be an answer to prayer, helping cover bills and providing peace of mind. Reverse mortgages offer a unique opportunity to be good stewards of the resources God has provided, ensuring we can enjoy our homes and meet our needs in retirement.To determine if a reverse mortgage is the right solution for your situation, visit Movement.com/Faith.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I am 61 years old and want to file for Social Security at 62. However, I have so much credit card and loan debt that I'm considering filing for bankruptcy, and I would like to know your take. I looked up your credit counseling thing, but they can’t service one of my loans, so I didn't go any further with them.We sold a property in owner finance the property. When do we report the taxes on it? And is it a long-term capital gain? I had it for 15 years and lived in it some, but it wasn't our primary residence.I wanted to know about I-Bonds and the interest rate they're paying currently. The last I heard, you can only buy them through a website. I'm 83 and don't know much about computers. Is there a number I can call?I’m struggling to tithe because my husband and I disagree with how the church spends the money. We feel like we're the only ones who disagree, and it's difficult writing out that tithe check when we don't agree with the financial decisions. We're wondering if we're wrong or if the church is wrong. We don't want to withhold our tithe but feel the money could be spent much better.Resources Mentioned:Movement MortgageTreasuryDirect.govChristian 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.

You’ve heard the saying, “Past performance is no guarantee of future results.” Does that apply to Federal Reserve policy?The Fed is finally cutting interest rates for the first time in four years. What does this mean for investors? You might be surprised. Mark Biller has the details.Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. The Guiding Principle: Don’t Fight the FedIn mid-September, the Federal Reserve surprised many investors by cutting the funds rate by half a percent. While many might view this as a positive signal, it’s essential to understand that rate cuts don’t always lead to stock market gains.A phrase often heard in the investment world is, “Don’t fight the Fed.” This principle has guided investors for decades, suggesting that investors should be cautious when the Federal Reserve raises rates and optimistic when it cuts rates. This belief has only grown stronger in recent years as the Fed has regularly intervened in the market. Historically, those who didn’t “fight the Fed” tended to fare well.However, while this strategy has worked for the last 15 years, it hasn’t always held true, especially during certain economic downturns. Investors should remain cautious in assuming rate cuts always lead to market gains.Rate Cuts Don’t Always Lead to Stock Market GainsWhile rate cuts have often been associated with bullish markets, history tells a more complex story. For example, in both 2001 and 2007, the Fed began cutting rates just as the economy entered significant recessions. These recessions led to massive losses for investors, with the S&P 500 dropping by as much as 50%.As economic data in the U.S. slows, some investors are beginning to wonder if we’re on a similar path to what happened in those earlier years. Could this be a repeat of 2001 or 2007, where rate cuts fail to prevent significant losses?The Two Paths Following Rate Cuts: Recession or Non-Recession?The key factor to understand when the Fed starts cutting rates is whether the economy is headed toward a recession or not. Historically, there have been two distinct paths that the market takes after the first rate cut in a cycle:The Recession Path: When the economy is in or heading toward a recession, rate cuts have not helped the stock market. Since 1980, three rate-cutting cycles have occurred during recessionary periods—in 1980, 2001, and 2007. During these times, the S&P 500 fell significantly, with declines of 16.5%, 28%, and 24%, respectively, in the 12 months following the first rate cut. The Non-Recession Path: On the other hand, when the economy avoids recession, rate cuts have given investors the boost they expected. In 1987, 1989, and 1995, the market saw gains of 24%, 14%, and 22% in the year following the initial rate cut.The key takeaway here is that recessions are the big variable. Whether the market moves up or down after rate cuts depends largely on whether the economy is heading into a recession.Are We on the Recession Path?This is the question on every investor’s mind. While economic growth has been slowing in recent months, it’s important to differentiate between a slowing economy and an actual recession. Over the past few years, many have predicted a recession as the year comes to an end, yet the economy has remained resilient.One possible explanation is that the slowing data reflects a normalization following the economic spike after the COVID-19 pandemic. Slowing growth doesn’t necessarily mean the economy is headed for a downturn. Investors have seen similar predictions in recent years that never materialized.Looking ahead, the data suggests that the economy may still be in good shape. While there may be fears of a recession, it’s possible that those fears could once again give way to continued economic stability and potential market gains.Why Did the Fed Cut Rates Aggressively?The recent half-percent rate cut by the Fed was larger than many expected. Typically, the Fed only makes cuts of this size during a crisis, yet the U.S. economy is growing at 3%, with unemployment at 4.2% and asset prices near all-time highs.This aggressive move signals that the Fed’s primary focus has shifted from controlling inflation to supporting employment and the broader economy. With inflation under control, the Fed likely sees less need for high interest rates and more risk in potentially slowing the economy by keeping rates elevated.There’s also a possibility that the Fed made a larger cut now to avoid making multiple smaller cuts in the future. However, cutting rates too aggressively could bring back inflation if the economy continues to grow.What Should Investors Do?At this point, it seems more probable that we’re on the non-recessionary path, at least for the remainder of the year. The data doesn’t yet support a recession, and economic indicators like growth, inflation, corporate profits, and household net worth remain strong.For investors, the message is cle

You’ve heard the identity theft protection ads for years, but do you really need it?Today, dozens of companies sell identity theft protection, so people obviously buy it. But what exactly are they getting, and is it really worth it?Understanding Identity Theft Protection: Is It Worth It?Identity theft is a growing problem that affects millions of people every year, with schemes ranging from credit card fraud to insurance and tax fraud. With this in mind, many companies offer identity theft protection plans. But is it worth it? Let’s take a closer look at the features, their value, and whether or not you should invest in one of these plans.Before diving into the specifics, it's important to remember that fear should never dictate our financial decisions. In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul reminds us:“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”When considering whether to purchase an identity theft protection plan, look at the facts, pray for guidance, and make an educated decision.Typical Features of Identity Theft Protection PlansIdentity theft protection plans come with a range of features, though not every plan includes all of them. Here's a look at some common offerings:Credit Report and Score Access: Many plans provide access to your credit reports and credit score.Credit Report Monitoring: This feature alerts you to suspicious activity, such as new accounts opened in your name.Fraud Alert Setup: Plans often help you set up fraud alerts on your credit reports, making it harder for thieves to open accounts.Dark Web Monitoring: This monitors for signs that your personal information is being misused on the dark web.Fraudulent Account Dispute Assistance: Some plans assist you in disputing fraudulent charges and accounts.Social Security Number Monitoring: You'll be notified if your Social Security number is used suspiciously.Browser Protection Tools: These tools protect your personal information online and alert you to unsafe websites.Insurance Coverage: Some plans include insurance to cover costs associated with identity theft recovery, such as legal fees and lost wages.These features may sound appealing, but is it worth paying $7.50 to $70 per month for this protection?Can You Do It Yourself?Interestingly, most of these features are things you can handle on your own:Credit Report Access: You can easily access your credit reports from Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax, or visit AnnualCreditReport.com for free reports.Credit Monitoring: Monitoring your credit every six months is simple and effective. You can also set up fraud alerts directly with the credit bureaus.Disputing Fraudulent Activity: You can dispute fraudulent charges on the credit bureau websites yourself—no third-party service is required.Browser Protection: Browsers like Chrome, Safari, and Microsoft Edge already offer safe browsing tools; you just need to enable them.There are a couple of features that are harder to manage on your own:Dark Web Monitoring: This is more challenging to do without specialized tools.Social Security Number Monitoring: While not easy to do on your own, this becomes less critical if you’re already monitoring your credit and disputing fraudulent activity.What About the Insurance?Many identity theft protection plans offer insurance to cover financial losses. However, disputing fraudulent activity directly with the credit bureaus is usually sufficient to avoid significant out-of-pocket costs. While it might take some time, handling it yourself is typically manageable.Here’s an important distinction: These plans offer identity theft protection, not identity theft prevention. They help you fix the problem after it occurs but do little to stop it in the first place.The most powerful thing you can do to prevent identity theft is to freeze your credit at all three credit bureaus. It’s free and prevents lenders from checking your credit unless you unfreeze it temporarily when applying for new credit. This simple step can prevent thieves from opening accounts in your name.Should You Buy Identity Theft Protection?Ultimately, purchasing an identity theft protection plan comes down to personal preference. If having one brings you peace of mind and helps you sleep better at night, go ahead and purchase a plan—but do your homework first. And if a free plan is offered after a data breach, don’t hesitate to accept it.By staying informed and taking simple steps on your own, you can safeguard your identity without fear.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:There are so many charities and organizations to donate to, and I'd like to find websites that can help me decide how to allocate my charitable giving. I want to make sure the organizations are using the funds responsibly. What resources can you recommend for researching and evaluating different charities?I have a question about an inherited IRA. My husband inherited two IRAs from his mom, who died in 2020. We have yet to take any distributions. I kn

Giving is supposed to be a source of great joy for God’s people. But sometimes, we act like it’s just another pain in our wallet.Christians are supposed to be generous, but maybe you’re having trouble getting excited about the idea. Today, we’ll point you back to the radical joy of godly generosity.Has Your Giving Become Automatic?Let’s start with an honest confession—has your Sunday donation become a routine, more about the habit than the heart? Or maybe you’ve been cutting back on giving due to financial challenges, and guilt is starting to creep in. Perhaps you and your spouse are facing tension over financial decisions, making discussions about giving stressful and uncomfortable.If your generosity feels stale or joyless, it’s time to hit reset. A renewed perspective on giving can not only restore your joy but also realign your heart with God’s purposes.Christian Generosity Is DifferentUnlike the world’s view of generosity, where recognition, self-esteem, or even a building with our name on it might be the end goal, Christian generosity is rooted in serving a different Master. It’s not about impressing others; it’s about imitating Christ.Ephesians 5:1 reminds us: “…be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”Jesus’ love for us led him to give everything on the cross, and we follow his example when we give radically, sacrificially, and joyfully.Sometimes, the action of giving must come before the feeling. Even when joy is absent, continue to give in faith. The joy will come because generosity pleases God, and He is faithful to guide your heart as you seek Him in this area.Cultivating a Biblical Attitude About GivingWhat does biblical giving look like? It’s more than just putting money in the offering plate. Scripture teaches that our giving should be secret, open-handed, cheerful, loving, and sacrificial.1. Secret, Not ShowyJesus calls us to give in secret so that the glory goes to God, not ourselves. In Matthew 6, He warns us to “Be careful not to do your ‘acts of righteousness’ before men, to be seen by them…But when you give to the needy, do not let your right hand know what your left is doing.”2. Open-Handed, Not Stingy2 Corinthians 9:6-7 encourages us:“Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”What we have isn’t ours—it’s God’s. Knowing that He is our provider allows us to give freely, whether it’s our time, talents, or treasure.3. Cheerful, Not ReluctantGod loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7). Cheerfulness in giving may not come naturally, but God can transform your heart. Pray for Him to help you find joy in generosity because this is His desire for you.4. From Love, Not ObligationGiving that pleases God flows from love—love for Him and love for others. It’s not something we manufacture; it’s the Holy Spirit working in us, cultivating a heart of love and compassion.5. Sacrificial, Not ConvenientSacrificial giving stretches us to become more like Christ. 2 Corinthians 8:9 reminds us: “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.”Giving sacrificially is an act of trust, believing that God will meet our needs while we meet the needs of others.Giving That Glorifies GodTo sum up, giving that honors God will be secret, open-handed, cheerful, loving, and sacrificial. As you embrace these attitudes, you’ll find spiritual growth and joy because ultimately, it’s all about God receiving the glory. John 3:21 says:“Whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God.”As followers of Christ, we desire to be more like Him in every way, including how we give. But sometimes, we might find ourselves giving out of guilt, reluctance, or a desire to impress others. If that’s where you are today, ask Jesus to transform your heart. Pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance as you practice Christian generosity, knowing that God will not only provide for your needs but also bless others through you.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have $30,000 I'd like to invest, but I need to figure out where to put it. Where should I invest the money?My brother and sister have a trust with three houses in it. My sister has since died, but my brother is still alive, and the trust has money in it already. He is thinking about selling one of the houses. Does the money have to go to the trust, or can he keep it?I'm a retired widow, and when my husband was living, we had just gotten another car. Now that I don't have his income, I am drawing some widow benefits from him. I keep getting mail to refinance at a cheaper rate because I'm trying to build my credit. Will that hurt my credit if I get it refinanced?How much can I leave and still have enough for long-term care? I

“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.” - Isaiah 1:17Widows are often unprepared to face a range of difficulties, including grief, social isolation, and, of course, financial challenges. Valerie Hogan joins us today to discuss some ways we can help.Valerie Hogan is an attorney, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a member of Kingdom Advisors, as well as the co-author of Wise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More with Miriam Neff. Helping Widows Build Financial ConfidenceMore than 60% of married women outlive their husbands, and over one million new widows are added in the U.S. every year. Caring for widows is not just a societal need but a biblical mandate found in James 1:27, where God calls us to look after widows in their distress.So, how can we help a widow gain financial confidence?1. Respect the Time to GrieveGrief is deeply personal, and everyone experiences it differently. We should respect each widow’s unique process. Some may grieve privately, while others are more open, but either way, it’s essential to allow them space. During the grieving period, it's advisable to hit the pause button on major financial decisions. While some decisions must be made immediately, delaying non-urgent matters can prevent unnecessary stress and mistakes.2. Be Aware of Public Financial VulnerabilityWidows, especially those who receive large life insurance payouts, may be targets for fraud or manipulation. Valerie pointed out that the public nature of some financial settlements makes widows particularly vulnerable. Protecting them by creating a safe environment is crucial. This includes ensuring that the widow is surrounded by trustworthy advisors who have her best interest at heart and are okay with hearing the word “no” from her as she processes her financial decisions.3. Understand the Emotional Impact of FinancesWidows often feel financially vulnerable, whether dealing with new-found debt or suddenly managing a large sum of money. The emotional weight of making financial decisions without their spouse can be overwhelming. Offering encouragement and empowering the widow to make decisions at her own pace is critical. Advisors and loved ones should simplify financial conversations, avoiding overly technical terms and ensuring the widow fully understands her options.4. Offer Help, But Respect AutonomyIt’s natural for family members or friends to want to step in and help immediately, but it’s essential to offer help when the widow is ready to receive it. Giving the widow space to express what kind of assistance she needs, as everyone’s journey is different. Rather than rushing into action, it’s better to gauge the widow’s readiness and provide support based on her preferences.5. Choosing the Right Financial AdvisorA widow should feel seen and heard by her financial advisor. If she worked with an advisor while her spouse was alive, she should assess whether that advisor truly understood her goals and concerns. If a change is needed, it’s worth interviewing several advisors, including those with faith-aligned advice, such as Certified Kingdom Advisors (CKAs). Finding the right advisor is crucial for the widow’s financial future and well-being.6. Empower Her to Say "No"Widows are often bombarded with advice from well-meaning friends and family and potential financial offers. Helping a widow say "no" is critical. Whether declining to sell her house or refusing a product offer, she should feel comfortable making decisions in her own time without pressure. People with her best interests will respect her choices, even if they don’t align with their suggestions.7. Equip Her for Wealth Transfer and Estate PlanningWidows often play a crucial role in wealth transfer, even if they were not previously involved in the family’s financial planning. Advisors should ensure that the widow is well-prepared to handle this responsibility. Rather than focusing solely on the next generation, the widow’s role in the financial plan should be prioritized, giving her the tools and knowledge to steward the family’s wealth.Helping widows gain financial confidence is a deeply rewarding and biblically rooted responsibility. Whether you are a family member, friend, or financial professional, offering support during this challenging season can make a lasting difference. It’s about empowering widows to make decisions on their own time and helping them navigate the challenges that come with grief and financial vulnerability.For those looking for trusted financial advisors, consider a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) through FaithFi.com, where you can find faith-aligned professionals who understand the unique needs of widows.If you’re a widow, check out Widow Connection to join a supportive network that has helped over 10,000 women move forward with confidence and hope in this next chapter of life. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:M

Many folks with 401ks and IRAs probably don’t think much about proxy voting…but it can be a powerful tool for the Kingdom.As investors, we have an opportunity to make our Christian values known to the companies in our portfolio. We just need to take advantage of it. Brandon Pizzurro joins us today to tell us how.Brandon Pizzurro is the President and Chief Investment Officer of GuideStone Capital Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.What Is Proxy Voting?When you purchase stock in a company, you become an owner, and as an owner, you have a say in how the company operates. This voice is exercised through shareholder meetings, typically held annually. At these meetings, shareholders can vote on corporate policies and other important matters. However, many shareholders are unable to attend these meetings in person. In such cases, they delegate their voting rights to another person or firm, known as a proxy, who votes on their behalf.If you invest in a mutual fund, you technically own shares of that mutual fund, not directly in the underlying companies. The mutual fund company, being the legal owner of those corporate shares, holds the right to vote. With hundreds of stocks in some funds, attending every meeting would be impractical. As a result, mutual funds often use proxy firms to cast votes for them.GuideStone's Faith-Based Approach to Proxy VotingGuideStone Funds has a unique history with proxy voting, guided by Christian principles. Their investment strategies align with Christian values, even though no corporation is perfect. Recognizing this, GuideStone aims to engage with companies they invest in, encouraging them to adopt more God-honoring business practices. Proxy voting allows them to be a voice for faith in the marketplace, striving to use their influence to advance God’s Kingdom.Previously, GuideStone delegated proxy voting to sub-advisers. However, they felt the need to make their voice clearer. In 2023, GuideStone brought in-house proxy voting, developed proprietary guidelines, and partnered with a proxy advisory firm. This move enables them to better align shareholder voting with their Christian values and those of their investors.An Example: Standing Against DiscriminationOne issue GuideStone addressed during this proxy season was “debanking,” a practice where banks refuse services based on social or reputational risk. Some banks have denied service to individuals or organizations solely due to their religious or political views. This growing trend reflects a larger issue of ideological discrimination in corporate cultures, where employees may feel unsafe to express their beliefs.This year, many companies included proposals on their ballots addressing viewpoint discrimination. GuideStone proudly voted in favor of these proposals, advocating for freedom of expression and religious liberty.Why Proxy Voting MattersAs Christians, we are called to be the “light of the world” (Matthew 5:14-16). Proxy voting is one way we can let our light shine in the marketplace, using our voice to reflect God’s values. More Christians are seeking to align their faith with their finances, and GuideStone is dedicated to helping them do so through faith-based investing strategies. By putting dollars to work in ways that honor God, investors can achieve both their financial goals and make an impact for His Kingdom.For more information on faith-based investing and proxy voting, visit GuideStoneFunds.com/Faith.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My daughter and her husband want to buy a $900,000 home. They have $300,000 for a down payment. I suggested they keep their paid-off $350,000 condo and get a loan against it for the new home's down payment rather than selling it. What do you think of this approach?I'm almost 59 years old, and my daughters have asked me to stay with one of them for a while to help her get on her feet. I'm going to sell my house, and I don't owe anyone anything. I'm unsure what to do with the money from selling my home. Can you provide any advice?Resources Mentioned:Guidestone FundsBankrate.comLook 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.

English statesman Francis Bacon once wrote, “Money is a great servant but a bad master.”If we don’t learn to manage money wisely to take control of it, it will soon master us. It’s one way or the other. Today, Bob Lotich tells us how to be the master and not the servant when it comes to money—and he makes it pretty clear, as well.Bob Lotich is a high-performance financial coach and Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®) and has been named a top-20 influencer in personal finance. His wife Linda and his award-winning website, SeedTime.com, and SeedTime Money Podcast have reached over 50 million people in the past decade. He is also the author of Simple Money, Rich Life: Achieve True Financial Freedom and Design a Life of Eternal Impact. The Wake-Up Call: A Breakdown Leads to BreakthroughBob’s story, which began in 2002 when his car broke down while he was on his way to deposit a paycheck, is one that many can relate to. He described how that moment of crisis led to a deep spiritual awakening about finances and stewardship.Unfortunately, the car breaking down prevented him from depositing his paycheck and paying rent on time. Facing the stress of a possible late fee he couldn’t afford, Bob realized that his financial life was on shaky ground. He describes this moment as a "house of cards" that collapsed.In his frustration, Bob prayed for wisdom, and that simple prayer became the catalyst for a profound change. God responded, leading Bob to learn about biblical stewardship and practical financial management.Biblical Wisdom: Earning, Saving, and GivingAs Bob delved into the Bible, he came across a quote from John Wesley that changed his financial perspective: "Earn all you can, save all you can, and give all you can." This idea, combined with scriptural truths, inspired him to view money not as a burden but as a tool for good.Bob reflected on passages like:Proverbs 13:11: "Gathering money little by little makes it grow."1 Timothy 6:17-19: Paul’s admonition to the rich to be generous.Proverbs 22:7: The borrower is slave to the lender, which motivated Bob to eliminate debt.These verses reinforced the idea that managing money well is not about hoarding wealth but using it for God’s purposes.Financial Unity in MarriageBob also emphasized the power of financial unity in marriage. Once he and his wife Linda aligned their financial goals with biblical principles, their relationship strengthened. They not only eliminated stress but achieved impressive financial milestones, like paying off their house by the age of 31. Bob’s story reminds us that peace in one’s finances can be a unifying force in marriage, helping couples move forward faster together.The Four Keys to Earning MoreBob shared four essential principles for increasing earnings in today’s digital age:Operate within God-given gifts and passions: Work aligned with your gifts gives you an "unfair advantage."Continue learning and developing your skills: Hone your craft to glorify God.Solve significant problems: You’re compensated in proportion to the size of the problem you solve.Work where demand is high: Identify where there’s a need and meet it.These principles guide believers to increase their earnings while keeping their hearts focused on God’s kingdom.The Joy of GivingOne of the most impactful parts of Bob’s message was his perspective on giving. He and his wife created a "seed account," setting aside money each month specifically for giving. By praying and waiting for opportunities, giving became not just a duty but a joyful, fun part of their lives. This practice reminds us of the joy Jesus spoke of when He said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35).Enjoying God's ProvisionFinally, Bob encouraged believers to enjoy the financial blessings God provides. He highlighted the importance of gratitude and appreciating what we have. Whether earning, saving, or giving, we can find joy in every aspect of financial stewardship.Bob’s journey teaches us that financial freedom isn’t about accumulating wealth for ourselves but about managing what God has entrusted to us with wisdom and generosity. We can design a life of eternal impact by earning, saving, giving, and enjoying God’s provision.If you’re looking for more practical tips and biblical wisdom, Bob’s book Simple Money, Rich Life: Achieve True Financial Freedom and Design a Life of Eternal Impact is a great resource to guide you on this journey.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My identity was stolen over a year ago, and it was used to take out a student loan in my name. It's now showing up on my credit report as a collections item. The college says they don't do credit checks for loans. I'm still determining whether to address this now or wait to see if anything else pops up.I'm interested in buying a small home. I'm 60 years old, and my husband has land, so I wanted to know if it was the best time to build a house with the current interest rates. Would it be better

One of the enemy’s favorite tools for discouraging Christians is the question, “What if…?” Unfortunately, those “What if” questions lead right down the road to fear.2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us:“for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”How many times have you worried about your finances, asking those scary “what if” questions like:“What if I lose my job?”“What if I don’t have enough money for retirement?”“What if something bad happens to me or my loved ones?”We all have these fears, often driven by uncertainties about the future. The problem with “what if” thinking is that it focuses on events that haven’t happened—and may never happen. We can’t control the future, but we often let fear about it consume us. Yet, God knows this struggle, and Jesus offers a comforting reminder in Matthew 6.Trust in God's ProvisionIn Matthew 6:25-27, Jesus tells his disciples:“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? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?Jesus challenges us to move our focus from anxious thoughts about the future to trust in the One who holds the future. God isn’t overwhelmed by the complications of life. Our circumstances, no matter how tangled, are never beyond His ability to work out.Changing "What If" to "Even If"When life feels uncertain, we have a choice: give in to the "what if" fears or trust God's provision and guidance. Rather than living in the grip of fear, we can transform our “what if” questions into “even if” statements of faith.Let’s take a cue from Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. These three young Israelites were faced with the threat of death in a fiery furnace because they refused to bow to King Nebuchadnezzar’s idol. Their response in Daniel 3:17-18 was full of courageous faith:“If the God we serve exists, then he can rescue us from the furnace of blazing fire, and he can rescue us from the power of you, the king. But even if he does not rescue us, we want you as king to know that we will not serve your gods or worship the gold statue you set up.”Their trust in God was unwavering, not based on whether or not they would be saved from the fire, but rooted in who God is. They embraced an “even if” mindset, trusting God’s sovereignty regardless of the outcome.Applying "Even If" Faith to Financial AnxietyIn moments of financial worry, we can embrace the same kind of trust in God. What if you lose your job? Even if you do, you can trust God to provide. What if you can’t afford retirement? Even if that happens, God will still be your provider. What if something bad happens to you or a loved one? Even in those moments, God is present, and His grace will be sufficient.Here’s how we can change our worries:“What if I lose my job?” becomes “Even if I lose my job, I will trust the Lord.”“What if I can’t afford retirement?” becomes “Even if I can’t afford retirement, I will trust the Lord.”“What if something bad happens?” becomes “Even if something bad happens, I will trust the Lord.”Faith in God’s SovereigntyAccepting that God’s plans may not always align with ours is challenging. The Bible doesn’t promise that life will be worry-free. But it does promise that God will be with us through it all. Faith in God’s sovereignty allows us to trust Him, even in the face of uncertainty, knowing that He works all things for our good (Romans 8:28).I challenge you to take a moment and write down your “what if” worries. Then, cross out the “what if” and replace it with “even if.” Submit your anxieties to the Lord, trusting that He will fill you with peace, strength, and hope.As you navigate financial anxieties, lean on God’s promises. One of my favorite verses is Isaiah 41:10:“fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”If you or someone you know is struggling with financial anxiety, I invite you to check out FaithFi’s new devotional, Look at the Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety. This resource will strengthen and encourage you to trust God in the midst of your financial concerns.Visit FaithFi.com to learn more and start your journey from “what if” to “even if” today.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm a teacher in my 20s, and I've been able to amass a little bit of savings, but my salary is not going up with the rate of inflation, and I'm starting to have to dig into my savings. I tithe 10% with every check, but I will need to pull from my savings to continue to do that. But if I pray about this and don't tithe, I feel guilty about it, so I’m looking for some wisdom on this.I have