Faith & Finance

“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

Ecclesiastes 3:13 says, “every man who eats and drinks sees good in all his labor—it is the gift of God.”The Bible calls work a gift. But if you have to work more than one job, it might not feel like it. Today, we’ll offer a few practical and spiritual insights for working multiple jobs.Work: A Gift and a StruggleGod created us for work. Throughout the Bible, we see the importance of work, not just for our own benefit but for God’s glory. From the beginning, Adam and Eve’s work in the garden was meant to be a gift—an opportunity to partner with God in cultivating His creation. However, with the fall of humanity and the entrance of sin, work became a struggle (Genesis 3). Despite this, our desire for meaningful work remains. In today’s world, this struggle is evident in the growing number of people working multiple jobs.According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 7.7 million workers held two jobs in 2022, with 400,000 working two full-time jobs simultaneously. The numbers are likely even higher now. So, how can we manage the demands of multiple jobs while keeping a biblical perspective on work?Practical Tips for Managing Multiple JobsIf you’re considering a second job to make ends meet or to save more, here are some practical tips:1. Keep Jobs SeparateUse tools like Asana, Trello, or even a traditional planner to stay organized with your tasks, schedules, and contacts for each job. Keeping clear boundaries between jobs helps prevent confusion and burnout.2. Communicate EffectivelyRegular communication with your employers, co-workers, and customers is key when juggling multiple jobs. Keep expectations clear and make sure deadlines and responsibilities are well-defined.3. Manage Your TimeSet boundaries and create a schedule that allows you to manage your workload without overextending yourself. If you’re working from home, establish a dedicated workspace and take regular breaks to maintain focus and energy.4. Take Care of Yourself SpirituallyIt’s easy to let your spiritual life slide when your schedule is packed, but your relationship with God should remain a priority. Trying to handle everything on your own can lead to burnout and idolatry, as work becomes the center of your life.Is Work Becoming an Idol?It’s essential to recognize when work is no longer just work, but has become an idol. Here are some signs that work may be taking God’s place in your heart:Your self-worth is tied to meeting income goals.You sacrifice rest, family time, or church to work more hours.You can’t stop thinking about work tasks, emails, or deadlines.You feel constantly stressed, discouraged, and exhausted.You believe financial security is the sole purpose of work.You are obsessed with productivity, success, and promotion.You see your paycheck, rather than God, as your provider.You are reluctant to give generously despite your income.If any of these resonate with you, it may be time to pause and refocus on Christ. Work is not about how much you can achieve or how much you earn—it’s about Who you are working for.Finding Rest in ChristWhen work becomes overwhelming, the solution isn’t to work harder—it’s to rest in Jesus. As you place Christ at the center of your work, you’ll begin to see opportunities to reach others, grow spiritually, and trust God as your provider. Satisfying work isn’t about what you do; it’s about Who you are serving. With the right focus, even managing multiple jobs can become an act of worship, reflecting God’s grace and provision in your life.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I will be selling a home that was part of my divorce settlement. What amount should be tithed from the sale of that property?Due to a medical issue, I had to go on disability at 55 and was then automatically switched to Social Security at 65. I'm wondering if there's a way I can turn off the Social Security benefits I'm receiving since I had intended to work until 72. I received the lowest amount because I had to leave the job market early, and I'm trying to figure out how to recoup that.I've been introduced to whole life insurance policies and told that you can buy one and use it to save money. As you save, you can borrow against it over time, making it like a two-in-one deal. What do you think about that? Is it legitimate?I have a mortgage and have four years left to pay on it. The balance is about $25,000—about $1,000 a month. How can I pay it off in two years or less?I retired at age 62 and just turned 65. My full retirement age is 66 in 10 months, and I'm currently drawing Social Security. I pastor two rural churches, and they contribute $300 a month to my retirement plan. Would it be okay for me to also contribute money to a Roth IRA or another type of retirement plan?Resources Mentioned:SSA.gov (Social Security Administration)Bankrate.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 Certi

When a low-income person asks your church for help, what do you do next?God is extraordinarily generous, and our churches should be, too. However, helping low-income people often requires going beyond meeting their material needs. Dr. Brian Fikkert joins us today to talk about how your church can help the poor in ways that lead to lasting change.Dr. Brian Fikkert is a Professor of Economics and Community Development and the Founder and President of the Chalmers Center for Economic Development at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. He is also the co-author of the best-selling book, “Helping Without Hurting in Church Benevolence: A Practical Guide to Walking with Low-Income People.” The Struggles Churches Face with Benevolence MinistriesMany churches feel overwhelmed when trying to address their community's needs. They want to help but often feel powerless, worried about enabling destructive habits or frustrated by the lack of visible long-term change. These challenges are common, but with proper guidance, churches can develop a benevolence ministry that is both effective and sustainable.One of the most critical things to remember in this process is that people are not projects. Every human being is made in the image of God and should never be reduced to their economic status or material possessions. Whether rich or poor, we are all equal in dignity and worth.Churches must embrace a relational approach to benevolence, viewing their work as an act of love rather than just meeting needs. This involves presence, care, empathy, listening, and community. A church that doesn’t know how to care for the needs of its own congregation will struggle to effectively minister to those outside its walls.Mutual Transformation: The Goal of Benevolence MinistriesBenevolence should never be a one-sided transaction between the “haves” and “have-nots.” Instead, it should foster relationships in which both parties grow and are transformed by their shared experiences.The goal is to create a bigger vision—one that invites people into the family of God, acknowledging that all of us are broken and made whole only in Christ. This mutual brokenness leads to mutual transformation, something Jesus teaches in the Beatitudes in Matthew 5. Churches must embrace this mindset, where economic status is not a barrier to forming genuine, meaningful relationships.Benevolence ministry is all about relationships. It’s not about simply giving material assistance. It’s about walking together through life, sharing in both the struggles and the joys. True benevolence involves praying together, suffering together, listening together, and learning from one another. When a church’s benevolence ministry is built on this relational model, it becomes a living example of Christ’s love and causes the world to take notice of the work God is doing.Helping Without Hurting: Online Training for ChurchesRecognizing that churches often struggle to balance helping people without unintentionally hurting them, Dr. Brian Fikkert and his team have developed an online training program called Helping Without Hurting in Benevolence Ministry. This six-session program guides churches through the process of establishing or improving their benevolence ministries.The course covers foundational topics like understanding poverty’s complexity, building a mission statement and policy document, and walking with people through change. It’s a valuable resource for churches looking to create a ministry that fosters genuine transformation.Resources and information are available at Chalmers.org for churches interested in learning more about setting up a transformational benevolence ministry.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm retiring soon and will have around $7,000 from my pension. I'm also eligible for a $100,000 annuity and Social Security at age 63. My wife and I are debating whether I should start taking Social Security right away or wait. What are your thoughts on when I should start taking Social Security?Resources Mentioned:The Chalmers CenterHelping Without Hurting in Benevolence Ministry (Course)Helping Without Hurting in Church Benevolence: A Practical Guide to Walking with Low-Income People by Dr. Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett (Book)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.

Christians are generous people, as God calls us to be. That means we must also be discerning.We should always give with our hearts out of a passion for advancing God’s Kingdom, but we must also use our heads to strategically choose which organizations or causes receive our financial support. Ron Blue joins us today with some advice before you write that check.Ron Blue, co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and author of numerous books on biblical personal finance, offers valuable insights into how we can give effectively to ministries. Drawing from his book Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives, he provides a strategic approach to ensure our giving is impactful and aligned with God's work. Here are seven critical questions to consider before financially supporting a ministry.1. Are the Leaders Marked by Godly Characteristics?When choosing to support a ministry, the first thing to examine is the character of its leaders. Christian leaders—whether they are pastors, missionaries, or heads of organizations—should be men and women of integrity, vision, and, most importantly, a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. If you can't trust the leaders, it's a clear sign that you should reconsider your support.2. Is the Ministry Active in God’s ‘Hot Spots’?Some ministries create programs and plans without aligning them with God’s work. Instead of assuming that God will bless good intentions, effective ministries actively seek to participate in areas where God is already working. Supporting ministries that follow God’s leading ensures your contributions are used where they will make the most significant impact.3. Is the Ministry Innovative?A healthy ministry isn't stagnant. It should be innovative—willing to create, experiment, and challenge the status quo while remaining true to its biblical principles. Look for ministries that pursue new methods and approaches, turning short-term opportunities into long-term growth. These ministries often see and act on possibilities that others might overlook.4. Is the Ministry Growing and Cooperative?Effective ministries continuously grow and make measurable progress toward their goals. Leaders with a clear sense of purpose and vision inspire donors to support their work. Additionally, strategic ministries are willing to collaborate with like-minded organizations and churches. By pooling resources, they achieve greater impact, breaking down denominational barriers and working together for the Kingdom.5. Is the Ministry Goal-Oriented?Ministries should have a clear sense of what God has called them to do and how to achieve it. Effective organizations maintain a laser focus on their goals and purpose. As a donor, it’s important to assess whether the ministry you’re supporting is committed to its mission and is actively working toward it.6. Is the Ministry Accountable?Accountability is essential in any ministry. Strategic ministries hold themselves and their staff accountable to meet established goals. This may come in the form of a strong board of directors, elders, or other leadership structures that ensure financial integrity and operational transparency. Always check if there are systems in place to ensure accountability within the organization.7. Is the Ministry Endorsed by a Strong Track Record?Finally, examine the ministry’s track record. The best predictor of future success is past performance. Instead of being swayed by eloquent appeals or effective fundraising, focus on the actual results the ministry has achieved. Review annual reports, visit the ministry’s website, and, if needed, request their IRS Form 990 to gain insight into their financial stewardship.By asking these seven questions, you can be confident that your giving is strategic, impactful, and aligned with God’s work. Giving should not be an emotional response but a thoughtful, prayerful decision grounded in biblical principles.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm on a variable income. I have plenty of work during the summer, but my income almost cuts in half during the winter. What should I do, and what resources are available to help me during that downtime?Our affluent church just received a $2.4 million unrestricted donation. It seems wasteful to just let the money sit, but I also don't feel right about not supporting the church. What are your thoughts?About three years ago, I saved up some money and bought about $15,000 worth of gold. Since then, I've saved another $10,000. I want to ensure I'm doing the right thing by buying gold and not leaving it sitting in a savings account at the bank. What are your thoughts on that?Resources Mentioned:Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives by Ron Blue with Jeremy WhiteLook 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 Fi

Are you worried about a recession? Some economists say there’s still a 35% chance it could happen in 2024.People often ask, “Will we have a recession?” The answer, of course, is “Yes.” We’ll always have another recession—the real questions are, “When?” and “Are you prepared for it?” If you’re not, now’s the time to get started.With the economy showing signs of slowing down, preparing yourself financially for a potential recession is essential. Here are seven practical steps to “recession-proof” your finances and help you navigate uncertain times:1. Check Your Credit Score and ReportsThe first step is to assess where you stand financially by checking your credit score and obtaining your credit reports. You can access free credit reports from Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax at AnnualCreditReport.com. This gives you a baseline to track any changes and helps you negotiate with creditors if needed, especially if you face temporary financial hardship.Having a history of on-time payments can work in your favor if you need to negotiate better terms in the future.2. Use the Mayday BudgetIn times of financial stress, focus on the essentials. The Mayday budget consists of four key categories:Food: Prioritize simple, affordable meals and avoid dining out.Housing: Make your mortgage or rent payment.Utilities: Ensure essential services like electricity and water are covered.Transportation: Keep your car running or pay for essential transportation.Once these are covered, any remaining funds can be allocated to other bills.3. Seek Additional ResourcesIf your unemployment benefits or savings run out, there are other resources available. Non-profit organizations and local government agencies often offer assistance programs. You can call 2-1-1 or visit 2-1-1.org to find services in your area.4. Communicate with CreditorsBe proactive with your creditors. Create a list of all your creditors and their contact information, and be prepared to call them if your financial situation worsens. Explain your situation in detail, providing pay stubs to show your reduced income, and ask if you can make partial payments or temporarily stop payments.Keep a record of every conversation and ask for any agreements in writing. This can prevent confusion and protect you from scams. Remember, legitimate creditors won’t ask for sensitive information over the phone or email.5. Get Professional Help with Credit Card DebtIf you’re struggling to keep up with credit card payments, seek help from non-profit organizations like Christian Credit Counselors. They can help lower your interest rates and consolidate multiple payments into one manageable amount. This form of debt management helps pay off debts faster without the risks associated with debt consolidation.6. Save as Much as PossibleBuilding up your emergency fund is critical during a recession. Aim to have 3 to 6 months of living expenses saved. This cushion can help cover essential costs like food, housing, and utilities during periods of unemployment or reduced income.7. Pray for WisdomFinally, don’t forget to pray. God promises in James 1:5 to give wisdom generously to those who ask. Pray for guidance in managing your finances, and trust that God will provide for you during difficult times.By following these steps, you can take meaningful action to protect your finances during a recession. Preparing in advance, maintaining open communication, and seeking God’s wisdom will help you navigate whatever financial challenges come your way.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Does the Bible speak about retirement at all? I’ve never read anything regarding it in Scripture besides referring to Levites and Priests.I'm reluctant to start shopping again for insurance, auto, and home. My premiums went up 31% this year, and I had just changed to another insurance company last year. I have no claims, and I just wondered if that seemed to be the pattern across the country or maybe for this region. Do you have any thoughts?My husband opted out of Social Security back in the 1980s. He's a pastor who works part-time. Now he's retired, and I wonder if he can get back into Social Security if he gets enough credits.My mom just passed away, and she left the house. She has a mortgage of $125,000 on it, and the loan is a VA loan. I don't know what to do with this property, so any advice would be greatly appreciated.Resources Mentioned:AnnualCreditReport.com211.orgChristian 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 faithf

God’s Word says a husband and wife become one flesh…but it doesn’t say anything about prenups.It’s true; you won’t find “prenuptial agreement” in your concordance. So, does that mean a Christian should never have one?God’s Design for Marriage: Oneness and CovenantA prenuptial agreement (prenup) is a legal contract that couples agree to before marriage, outlining how their assets—money, property, and other possessions—will be divided if they divorce. While this can seem like a practical way to handle complex financial conversations, many wonder if it aligns with God’s design for marriage.In Genesis 2:24, God sets the foundation for marriage: "A man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh." Paul reinforces this principle in 1 Corinthians 7:4, reminding us that in marriage, even our bodies are not our own but belong to our spouse. This unity is central to God’s plan for a thriving marriage—there should be no "mine" or "yours," only "ours."Marriage is also a covenant relationship, reflecting the bond between Christ and His Church (Ephesians 5:31-32). This covenant is built on love, sacrifice, grace, and mutual respect. In a Christ-centered marriage, everything is shared, and the relationship becomes a testimony of God’s love to the world.Potential Issues with Prenups in Christian MarriagesWhile a prenup may seem practical, it can introduce harmful dynamics into a Christian marriage. Dr. Art Rainer, a frequent contributor to Faith and Finance, outlines three potential messages a prenup might send:Distrust in the Relationship: A prenup often signals that one partner feels the need to protect their assets, which can imply a lack of trust in the other person.Doubt About the Marriage’s Longevity: By preparing for a divorce before the marriage even begins, a prenup can suggest uncertainty about the commitment to "forever."One Partner Isn’t Fully Committed: In a biblical marriage, all things—finances included—are shared. A prenup can indicate that one partner is unwilling to fully embrace the oneness that God desires.Are There Legitimate Reasons for a Prenup?Despite these potential issues, there are scenarios where a prenup might foster unity rather than harm it. For example, if one or both spouses have children from previous marriages, a prenup can help clarify how inheritances will be handled. This could show that the marriage is being pursued for the right reasons and that the best interests of all family members are being considered.However, any decision about a prenup should involve prayer and godly counsel. Seeking wisdom from advisors ensures that the couple asks the hard questions and examines their motivations before moving forward.Keeping God’s Design at the Center of MarriageUltimately, marriage is a covenant reflecting Christ’s relationship with the Church, built on trust, sacrifice, and unity. While there may be valid reasons to consider a prenup, it should never replace the trust and commitment foundational to Christian marriage.Both spouses should prayerfully consider their motivations, ensuring their relationship aligns with God’s design for oneness in all areas, including finances. Open conversations about money and trust are essential, and any agreement made between each spouse should serve the marriage, not undermine it.We hope this reflection has provided you with valuable insights as you ponder whether a prenup is right for your situation. Seek God’s guidance, and let His vision of unity and covenant shape your marriage decisions.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I started receiving my Social Security benefit at 62 but was later notified I could get a higher amount. After speaking with them, my benefit increased slightly since half of my ex-husband's benefit was higher than I had been receiving. Now, I'm wondering if I would be eligible for survivor benefits if my ex-husband were to pass away before me.I'm paying a $120 monthly premium on a $10,000 life insurance policy for my 96-year-old mother. The policy has a $5,000 cash value. Should I cancel the policy and use the $5,000 cash value to pre-pay funeral expenses, or should I keep the policy active until she passes and use the $10,000 death benefit then?I have multiple 401(k) accounts from past jobs and traditional and Roth IRAs. Would it be best to consolidate all these retirement accounts into a single traditional IRA and/or Roth IRA? I'm hoping consolidation could simplify management and potentially improve my investment options.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 wit

So you’d like to give more, but you don’t know how? Good news! If money’s scarce, it doesn’t mean your giving has to be.Hebrews 13:16 reads:“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”It doesn’_t say, “unless you’re broke.” Today, we’ll give you some ways you can give _without money:1. Give Your Time to Your ChurchOne of the easiest ways to be generous is by offering your time. Your local church has plenty of service opportunities:Join a missions committee or teach a Sunday School class.Serve in the children’s ministry if teaching isn't your strength.Help with outdoor work like weeding flower beds or raking leaves.If you’re unsure where to start, ask a church leader what help is needed. You’ll likely receive plenty of suggestions!2. Visit and Care for OthersAnother impactful way to serve is by visiting members of your church or community, especially those in the hospital or who are elderly shut-ins. Spending an hour with someone can brighten their day. You can also offer practical help:Babysit for parents who need a break.Help an elderly neighbor with household tasks, yard work, or grocery shopping.Use these moments to share the love of Christ, perhaps by inviting them to church.3. Encourage Others from HomeYou don’t even need to leave your house to make a difference. Set up a personal ministry by sending cards or handwritten letters of encouragement. Include a passage of Scripture that speaks to God’s love and care.4. Donate Items You No Longer UseLook around your home—are there things you no longer need? Items from your closet, garage, or basement can be donated to a Christian charity like the Salvation Army or Habitat for Humanity. Even something as simple as recycling plastic bags can help a ministry like a food bank or thrift store.5. Offer Your Skills and ResourcesDo you have a van, truck, or trailer? Consider using it to help people move or haul items. It’s a surprising and practical way to serve others. If you have professional skills—whether in computers, graphic design, or even gardening—find ways to offer those talents to your church or community.6. Donate Unused Christian MaterialsIf you have extra Bibles or Christian books, you can donate them to ministries that distribute materials to believers worldwide. Organizations like Love Packages and Christian Resources International accept and send these materials to places where believers are eager to learn God’s Word. Local homeless shelters may also welcome donations of Bibles and Christian literature.7. Give BloodA unique way to give is by donating blood. Every pint of blood donated can save up to three lives, allowing others to experience God’s love and perhaps the chance to hear the Gospel. Visit RedCrossBlood.org to learn where and when you can donate.8. PrayPerhaps the most important way you can give is through prayer. Join your church’s prayer group, or commit to praying individually for your church, community, friends, and world leaders. Prayer is a powerful way to support the work of God’s Kingdom.Even if you don’t have financial resources to give, there are countless ways to be generous. From donating your time and skills to praying for others, God honors sacrificial giving in all its forms. Take advantage of these opportunities to bless others and advance God’s Kingdom.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:If my spouse is accumulating credit card debt and my name is not on the credit card, if he should die, would I be responsible for that debt?I would like to know if I should get a foreclosure home or a new home. What's the difference between the two options?My parents (around 85) recently sold a duplex they inherited for $215,000. I have two questions: 1) How do they determine the taxes owed on the sale? 2) What should my mom do with the remaining money after covering healthcare and home repair costs, considering she's considering putting it in CDs?I'm in my 70s and retired. Since I'm divorced, I don't have much money saved, and my income goes towards alimony. At my age, I'm wondering how to balance saving money for emergencies and giving more to the Lord's work. I believe giving to the Lord's work is a better reward than saving money down here. What do you think?Resources Mentioned:Red Cross Blood Services | Love Packages | Christian Resources InternationalSalvation Army | Habitat For HumanityBankrate.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, a

There are plenty of Christian retirement plans out there…but is retirement itself actually biblical?The answer depends on your definition of retirement. For Christians, that should be quite different from the world’s view of retirement.Work: A Biblical CallingThe world often sees work as something to escape—a negative experience endured under the pressure of a demanding boss. However, the Bible presents a very different view. In Colossians 3:23-24, Paul tells us: "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men."God is our true boss, and we are called to serve Him through our work.Work existed before the Fall. Genesis 2:15 shows us that God put Adam to work in the Garden of Eden. Nowhere does the Bible suggest that we should stop serving God once we have saved enough money to retire into a life of leisure.Moreover, God Himself is a worker. In John 5:17, Jesus says:“My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working.”This means that our service to the Lord should never truly end. Interestingly, the Bible only mentions retirement in one instance, and that’s in a specific context. Numbers 8:24-25 describes how Levitical priests were to retire at age 50. However, this instruction was specific to their duties and doesn’t apply to all believers. The Bible doesn’t give a general mandate for retirement as we think of it today.In fact, before the 20th century, people worked for as long as they were able. The concept of retirement as we know it—a time to completely cease working—came about with the introduction of Social Security and pensions. But as Christians, we are called to serve God for our entire lives.Why Should We Save for Retirement?You might be wondering, “If we’re not supposed to retire, why are we saving all this money?” The answer is simple: It’s wise to prepare for a time when we might not be physically able to work. People today are living longer than in previous generations, and many will face a stage of life where work is no longer possible.Proverbs 21:20 reminds us: “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.”Saving is a biblical principle that allows us to be good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us.But for Christians, saving for retirement isn’t about stepping away from work altogether. Instead, we should view it as an opportunity to retire to something, not just from something. Perhaps this means using the resources you’ve saved to enter the mission field or serve in a new capacity. Or, it might mean having the freedom to give more generously to advance God’s Kingdom.As Christians, our goal in retirement should be to serve God in even greater ways. The Apostle John continued writing and preaching into his 90s, and second-century pastor Polycarp testified to his faith even in his final days. These examples remind us that our service to the Lord never ends, no matter our age.So, while it’s prudent to save for the day when you can no longer work as diligently as you do now, the ultimate goal is to use that season of life to serve God more fully.Practical Steps for Saving for RetirementHere at Faith and Finance, when we talk about retirement, we’re not advocating for ceasing all work. Instead, we aim to help you be faithful stewards of God’s money so that, one day, you can serve Him in new and meaningful ways.To prepare financially for retirement, start saving as early as possible to benefit from compound interest. We recommend setting aside 10 to 15 percent of your income in a tax-advantaged retirement plan, like a 401(k), especially if your employer offers matching contributions.If your employer doesn’t provide a 401(k), consider opening a traditional or Roth IRA. For younger individuals with more time until retirement, a Roth IRA may be especially beneficial because of its long-term tax advantages.As believers, our view of retirement should be shaped by our desire to serve God faithfully throughout every season of life. Saving for retirement is wise and biblical, but our goal is not to stop working altogether. Instead, we prepare for a time when we can use the resources God has given us to serve Him more fully, whether through giving, missions, or new opportunities for ministry.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I bought a house years ago and am the only one on the mortgage. I moved out and purchased another property but didn't sell the first one. My CPA said I'd have to pay up to 24% capital gains tax. Can I sell the first house, take the money, and buy the new property from my wife to avoid the capital gains tax?I started drawing Social Security early while working part-time and made over the income limit. They withheld half of the amount over the limit. I understood from a previous program that I could get that money back after I reached full retirement age. I wonder if that means the check will be more because of the input or if it will build up some payment for me.At this point in my

“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” - Proverbs 11:14At one time, finding someone who shared your Christian values and could give you expert financial guidance was quite a challenge. But today, a nationwide network of Christian financial professionals fills that void. Sharon Epps joins us today to explain “What is a CKA®?”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 Origin of Certified Kingdom AdvisorsIf you’re new to the concept of a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA), you might wonder what sets these financial professionals apart. CKAs are not only trained in financial services but also rooted in a biblical worldview, helping individuals and families make faith-based financial decisions. There are over 1,500 CKAs across the U.S. and Canada, and that number continues to grow.Larry Burkett and Ron Blue inspired the concept of Kingdom Advisors, realizing that God’s people needed trusted, biblically minded financial advisors to help them steward their resources. This vision laid the foundation for the CKA designation, the only credential in the financial industry dedicated to biblically wise financial advice. CKAs are financial professionals, such as planners, accountants, investment advisors, insurance professionals, and lawyers, who are passionate and qualified to integrate faith and finances into their practice.What Does It Take to Become a Certified Kingdom Advisor?Becoming a Certified Kingdom Advisor involves rigorous training. CKAs complete 90 hours of study at the college level, capped by a five-hour proctored exam. This training includes navigating financial decisions from a biblical perspective through a case study of a real family, Bob and Debbie.This process equips financial professionals with deep biblical convictions about financial decision-making and enhances their ability to give competent, faith-aligned advice to their clients. The CKA credential is highly valued across the financial services industry and recognized by firms for its commitment to biblically-based stewardship.Stories of TransformationOne of the most rewarding aspects of the CKA program is hearing stories from advisors who have completed the training and how it has impacted their practice. Sharon shared a few examples, including an advisor who wrote:“My practice is no longer just about financial acumen. It’s about integrating faith and finance, reshaping how I interact with my clients.”Another advisor reflected: “Becoming a CKA has been more than an educational pursuit; it has been a catalyst for spiritual growth and discernment. With each scripture memorized and lesson learned, I’ve gained clarity on God’s calling and purpose for me as a leader and disciple-maker.”These stories illustrate how the CKA designation transforms financial professionals' professional growth and personal faith journeys, allowing them to serve their clients more holistically.Why Choose a Certified Kingdom Advisor?Why should you choose a Certified Kingdom Advisor if you're considering financial guidance? Money is a tool, and having an advisor who shares your biblical worldview ensures that your financial decisions are aligned with your faith. CKAs help you steward your resources wisely and offer spiritual encouragement through prayer and scripture.If you’re ready to take the next step and find a Certified Kingdom Advisor, visit FaithFi.com and click “Find a Professional.” You can connect with a CKA in your area who can guide you in faithful financial stewardship.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My son got into a terrible car accident and suffered a brain injury. It took him four years to recover and get back on his feet. He's in his early 30s and has a job, but he's worried about losing his Medicare disability payments if he earns too much. I'm unsure of the rules around the substantial gainful activity limit and the trial work period. Can you help me understand how he can continue working without jeopardizing his disability benefits?My husband and I just sold one of our investment properties for $200,000, and we made about $140,000 in profit. We're about three years away from retirement. Should we use that $200,000 to buy another investment property to avoid paying capital gains taxes? Or should we invest the money elsewhere instead of doing a 1031 exchange?27 years ago, I bought some savings bonds for my sons, who are now adults. The bonds have been sitting in a safe all this time. My sons know about the bonds, but I'm unsure what to do with them now. Should I just hold onto the bonds until they mature in three more years? Or should I go ahead and cash them out and give the money to my sons now? I'm still determining if the bonds will be worth much in a few years, so I wonder if I sho

The definition of synergy is two things put together, having an effect greater than the sum of the parts. Synergy can play a beneficial role in family finances. A case in point is an ABLE account working together with a special needs trust for a person with disabilities. Matt Syverson joins us today to talk about it.Matt Syverson is Managing Partner & Senior Wealth Advisor for Sound Stewardship in Overland Park, Kansas. He is also a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®). What is an ABLE Account?An ABLE account, short for “Achieving a Better Life Experience,” is a tax-advantaged savings account specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. It allows them to save money and work without losing access to crucial government benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid, which have strict asset limits of $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. The key features of an ABLE account include:Eligibility: Available to those who are blind or disabled before age 26 (rising to 46 in 2026).Savings Opportunity: Allows individuals to work and save without exceeding government asset limits.Tax Benefits: Often provides state tax deductions similar to 529 college savings plans.Contribution Limits: The lifetime maximum contribution limit aligns with 529 plans but should stay under $100,000 to avoid affecting SSI or Medicaid.Qualified Expenses: Can be used for day-to-day needs like food and rent, excluding vices like alcohol or gambling.No Impact on Government Benefits: ABLE account balances won’t disqualify the individual from receiving SSI or Medicaid.It’s important to note that in most states, there is a Medicaid payback provision, which allows the state to recover funds from the ABLE account to cover medical bills after the account holder's passing. However, some states, including Kansas, have removed this clawback provision, making these accounts even more attractive for families.What is a Special Needs Trust?A special needs trust (SNT) is a more established tool designed to protect individuals' eligibility for government benefits while allowing families to manage significant assets. This trust can hold homes, vehicles, real estate, investments, and various accounts like IRAs or Roth IRAs. Key benefits of a special needs trust include:Asset Management: Can hold a wide variety of assets that would otherwise disqualify someone from receiving government benefits.Estate Planning Certainty: Spells out how the assets will be managed and distributed after the individual’s passing.No Medicaid Clawback: Unlike ABLE accounts, SNTs are not subject to Medicaid payback provisions, providing greater long-term financial security.Spending Flexibility: Can cover a wide range of expenses not covered by government programs.However, special needs trusts come with a downside. If the trust is used to pay for food or rent, the SSI benefit will be reduced by $334 per month. Additionally, any direct payments to the individual from the trust can affect SSI income, so careful management is required.How Can ABLE Accounts and Special Needs Trusts Work Together?Combining an ABLE account with a special needs trust can offer significant advantages for families. The ABLE account can be used for day-to-day expenses, while the special needs trust can be preserved for larger, long-term financial goals. This separation allows for greater flexibility and financial independence.Day-to-Day Needs: An ABLE account can cover immediate expenses like food and rent without reducing SSI benefits.Long-Term Planning: A special needs trust can hold larger assets and ensure they are passed on to future beneficiaries without impacting government benefit eligibility.Tax Benefits: ABLE accounts enjoy tax-free growth and withdrawals for qualified expenses, while special needs trusts are fully taxable each year. Therefore, it is beneficial to use the ABLE account for specific expenses to maximize tax savings.Why Go Through the Effort?Setting up both an ABLE account and a special needs trust takes planning, but the benefits are well worth it. ABLE accounts are simple and inexpensive to establish, offering tax advantages and flexibility for everyday expenses. Special needs trusts, while more complex and costly, assure that your loved one will retain their benefits and that their assets will be managed according to your wishes.When creating these plans, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney and a financial advisor. Coordinating contributions to the ABLE account and the special needs trust is crucial to avoid exceeding limits that could affect eligibility for government benefits.Combining an ABLE account with a special needs trust can provide powerful financial synergy for families caring for a loved one with disabilities. With the right planning, these tools help ensure both short-term financial needs and long-term security, allowing your family member to thrive and achieve their God-given potential.On Today’s

You should have 3 to 6 months’ living expenses in your emergency fund…but what if you can’t get to that money?Does your emergency fund need an emergency fund? That would be money you actually have on hand, not in a bank. And if so, how much?Today, many of us rely heavily on debit and credit cards for everyday transactions. They’re convenient, especially with the added perks of reward points or cashback programs. But as easy as it is to swipe a card, it’s still wise to keep a small cash reserve on hand. Why? Let’s take a look.The Importance of Cash in a Digital WorldWith ATMs and mobile banking apps available 24/7, you might wonder why keeping cash around is necessary. While it’s true that ATMs are convenient, there are rare but possible situations where cash access might be temporarily unavailable. This could be due to:Network-wide banking outagesA hacking incident affecting your bankIdentity theft or a compromised accountThese disruptions could leave you without access to your funds, even if it’s just for a short time. Having a small amount of cash on hand can help bridge the gap during emergencies.How Much Cash Should You Keep?So, how much cash is enough? Consumer experts suggest keeping enough to cover about three days’ worth of expenses. This amount will vary depending on your individual needs. To figure out how much you need:Review your bank and credit card statements for a “normal” month (one without unusual expenses).Subtract fixed bills like your mortgage and utilities from your total spending.Take the remaining amount (expenses covered by card or cash) and divide it by 10 to find your estimated three-day cash need.You’ll likely end up with several hundred dollars, depending on your lifestyle or any special circumstances, like medical needs. That’s your target for an emergency cash reserve.Where Should You Store Your Cash?Now that you know how much cash to keep, where should you store it? Don’t bury it in a coffee can in the backyard. Instead, invest in a fireproof home safe that’s securely bolted to the wall.If you use a cash envelope system, remember that those envelopes might be empty at the end of the month. So, it’s a good idea to keep this emergency cash in a separate, dedicated envelope for unforeseen circumstances.Faith-Based Financial Solutions for Your Emergency FundWhile having a small cash reserve on hand is wise, your larger emergency fund—typically 3 to 6 months’ worth of expenses—should be stored safely in a financial institution. But here’s a question: wouldn’t it be great to know that your bank aligns with your Christian values?Thankfully, there are several faith-based banks and credit unions that do just that. One such example is Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU). In addition to providing great online banking services, CCCU is committed to supporting Christian ministries worldwide. They’ve donated over $6 million to mission projects and use deposits to help build churches, expand ministries, and support Christian businesses. Plus, each account is insured for up to $250,000.As Christians, stewardship goes beyond just the 10% we give the church. It involves managing 100% of what God has given us. Partnering with a faith-based financial institution like CCCU allows you to make a positive impact while ensuring your emergency fund is secure.If you’re looking for a faith-aligned banking option, consider Christian Community Credit Union. You can learn more at JoinChristianCommunity.com.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have four family members. They're in their 30s, single, making $40,000 a year each, and want to buy a house together. Is that a good idea?My auto and home insurance deductibles have increased significantly, and my agent says it's due to excess claims. Do you have any more insight into why this is happening?I have a large 401(k) that I need help managing now that I'm retired. Should I leave it with the current provider or turn it over to a wealth management company? If so, how do I choose the right wealth manager?I'm about to retire, and I don't have any money saved. I will only have social security; whatever my retirement is, I'm trying not to retire this year. I will try putting it off another year to see if I can get a little more prepared or transition easier into that retirement. What are your thoughts on what I should do moving forward?Resources Mentioned:Christian 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 Si

There’s a saying…“When the wolf comes in the door, love creeps out the window.”Money problems are always listed among the top reasons couples divorce. This is all the more tragic because money problems are fixable. Rachel McDonough joins us today with a three-step approach to better money and marriage.Rachel McDonough is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and a regular Faith & Finance contributor..Finding UnityManaging money in marriage can be a significant source of frustration for couples. With different financial habits, priorities, and values, it’s easy for disagreements to arise. However, finding unity in your finances can bring peace and strengthen your relationship. Rachel McDonough has advised many couples on navigating their finances, and she shares a powerful three-step approach to help couples align their values, priorities, and financial goals:1. Understand Each Other’s Personal ValuesThe foundation of financial unity in marriage is understanding each spouse’s personal values. When two people get married, they bring different perspectives, experiences, and priorities to the relationship. Of course, it would be nice if couples automatically thought the same way, but that’s rarely the case. Instead, couples must intentionally work to understand each other.Our personal values reflect the unique "fingerprints" of God in our lives. For example, one spouse might highly value generosity, reflecting God’s giving nature, while the other might prioritize creativity, which mirrors God’s role as a creator. These values are part of what draws couples together, but differences also exist.The key is to honor both similarities and differences, learning how to celebrate each other’s unique values. Couples can engage in exercises like value inventories to help uncover what drives each person’s financial decisions and actions.2. Identify Financial PrioritiesOnce values are understood, the next step is to list and prioritize financial goals. These priorities often stem from personal values and can encompass more than just financial goals. For instance, one spouse might prioritize health, recognizing that a stressful job affects their well-being. As a result, this could lead to a financial decision, such as working fewer hours to improve overall health.Couples should openly discuss their individual priorities and work together to allocate resources equitably. By aligning their financial decisions with shared values, they create a plan that reflects both spouses’ desires and ensures that resources are used to honor both perspectives.3. Implement an Actionable PlanThe final step is to take the identified values and priorities and create a practical, actionable plan. At this stage, couples must decide how to manage their finances, determining specific amounts for various expenses, goals, and savings.When both spouses participate in creating the financial plan, it reflects their unity. For example, if one spouse enjoys making checklists and organizing tasks, they can use that skill to implement the plan effectively. By working together, couples can move forward with intention, managing their money in a way that reflects their shared goals.The Role of Prayer and Patience in Financial UnityFor couples who find themselves struggling to get on the same page, Rachel offers two pieces of advice:Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:21). Unity cannot happen without mutual respect and cooperation. Acting independently or without your spouse’s agreement can lead to division rather than unity.Pray for your spouse. If God is leading you to make a financial decision, trust that He can also speak to your spouse. Instead of pushing or pressuring, pray for God to bring unity and change hearts if necessary.By understanding each other’s values, prioritizing goals, and creating a practical plan, couples can manage their finances to honor both spouses and bring peace to their relationship. And when challenges arise, prayer and patience can help foster the unity that God desires for every marriage.For more financial wisdom from Rachel McDonough, visit her firm’s website at WealthSQ.com.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My mom has a vacant house that's expensive to maintain. I've been advised to use it as an Airbnb or rent it out. I don't know which option is better. The Airbnb route makes me nervous since I don't know much about it. What do you recommend?Resources Mentioned:Wealth SquaredLook 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 wi

Many believers would agree that churches should follow the same financial principles that God’s Word provides for individuals. But even within that agreement, there’s still plenty of room for debate. For example, should churches borrow for building and expansion projects?Borrowing for church projects can be a sensitive topic, raising important questions about finances and faith. While the Bible does not declare borrowing a sin, it does offer several warnings about its potential pitfalls. Let's explore the biblical principles and guidance for churches considering debt.Biblical Warnings About DebtProverbs 22:7 says, “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is a slave to the lender.” This warning reminds churches that while borrowing isn’t inherently sinful, it can create a burden and dependency on lenders. The late Larry Burkett emphasized that debt can be destructive if taken to excess, and it’s more about an attitude than an absolute rule.Principles for Church BorrowingFinancial expert Ron Blue offers several key principles for churches to follow when considering borrowing:The benefit should outweigh the cost.A clear repayment plan should be in place.Church leadership should be unified in the decision to borrow.Borrowing should bring peace of mind, not anxiety.The debt should align with God-given goals.These principles help guide churches in making thoughtful decisions about whether to borrow, ensuring that financial obligations don't overshadow their spiritual mission.Three Biblical Principles for BorrowingDr. Art Rainer, Director of the Institute for Christian Financial Health, encourages healthy debate on the issue of church borrowing, outlining three key principles for churches grappling with the issue of debt:Use Caution—Proverbs 22:26-27 advises against entering agreements without being sure of repayment. Churches must ensure they can meet their obligations to avoid damaging their witness.Consider the Congregation's Burden—Debt limits funds available for outreach and missions. As Proverbs 22:7 reminds us, “the borrower is a slave to the lender.”Debt Creates Opportunities for Sin—Psalm 37:21 warns against failing to repay debts. Churches should secure loans with collateral and ensure a repayment plan is in place.Despite the cautions, many churches borrow successfully to expand their ministry efforts. If your church chooses to borrow, selecting a financial institution that shares your Christian values can be a game-changer. Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU) is a trusted partner for churches, providing over $1 billion in ministry real estate loans. CCCU aligns with Christian values and offers financial tools to help ministries thrive.Making an Impact Without BorrowingEven if your church decides against borrowing, you can still make an impact. By opening an account at CCCU, you support other churches and ministries through your deposits. To learn more, visit JoinChristianCommunity.com.While borrowing isn’t sinful, churches must carefully consider the financial and spiritual implications before taking on debt. By following biblical principles and partnering with the right institutions, churches can make informed decisions that support their mission to advance the Gospel.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've been seeing many of these advertisements about debt cancelation on the internet, on Facebook, and in places like that. There's one going on right now: if you're a veteran and owe $20,000 or $30,000 or more, you can get it wiped out. Is stuff like this a legitimate deal, or is it a scam?I'm selling my home and will have a surplus after buying a new home outright. I just retired and want to stay retired. Should I use the surplus to live off of, draw my Social Security, or invest the money?My question is about my retirement investment with my employer versus my investment in a high-yield savings account. I've been with my employer for three and a half years. Its growth has been 2.47% during that time, and my high-yield savings account rate is 5.2%. I'm trying to understand which investment would be most beneficial.I heard you guys talk about a reverse mortgage and was thinking about it for my 90-year-old mother. We’ve been in conversation with Movement Mortgage and started the process, but I got cold feet because of the fees. So, I am wondering what your thoughts are about this and whether this is a good idea. Resources Mentioned:Christian 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 faithfu

Can you name two things that don’t seem to go together—but actually do? How about freedom…and budgeting?We hear from folks all the time who feel that living on a budget cramps their style, hems them in, and makes them feel trapped. Brandon Sieben is with us today to make the case that just the opposite is true.Brandon Sieben is the Chairman of the Board at Compass Financial Ministry. How Simplified Finances Lead to Peace of MindAlthough budgeting might seem restricting, it can lead to financial freedom and peace of mind. Here are the fundamental principles to consider if you’re struggling with putting together a budget: 1. Keep It SimpleThe first principle of freedom budgeting is simplicity. Often, people avoid budgeting because they think it's too complicated or time-consuming. The goal is to make the process easy, so you'll stick with it, whether utilizing a simple Excel spreadsheet on the fridge to track your expenses or using a tool like the FaithFi app for simplicity and visibility.2. Be HonestThe second principle is honesty and transparency. As Jesus said in John 8:32, "The truth will set you free," and this holds true for budgeting. Many people avoid budgeting because they fear what they’ll find—that their spending exceeds their income. Being honest about where your money is going is crucial to financial freedom.3. Allocate Non-Negotiables FirstNext, it's crucial to prioritize the "non-negotiables"—the essentials that must be paid first, such as tithing, rent, utilities, and food. After these basics are covered, you can think about discretionary spending.4. Save Every MonthEven while playing financial defense, it’s essential to start saving something every month. The habit of saving, no matter how small, is crucial. If you spend every dollar you earn, you have no options. But if you save a portion, even 20%, you’ll begin to build financial flexibility and choices over time.5. Budget for FunOnce you’ve applied the first four principles—simplifying, being honest, prioritizing needs, and saving—you can move on to the final principle: budgeting for fun. Financial freedom doesn’t mean depriving yourself indefinitely. As your savings grow, you can intentionally allocate money for enjoyment.Through these principles, you can move from financial overwhelm to freedom. You can eliminate the anxiety that robs you of joy and embrace a lifestyle aligned with God’s plan for you. As Luke 16:13 reminds us, "You cannot serve both God and money." By choosing God’s principles over financial chaos, you can find freedom.By keeping it simple, being honest, prioritizing needs, saving consistently, and allowing room for fun, you can reduce anxiety and experience the freedom that comes from managing money well.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Can you provide me with more information about the Christian Credit Union you partner with? What book do you recommend for passing down inheritances to your heirs? Your show has been a great gift to my wife and me during a tough time. We faced a costly 3-year lawsuit, but your program helped us through it. While our savings took a hit, we have a thriving family business and remain active in our community and church. I used to feel ashamed of our struggles, but I've learned this challenge was part of our journey. Your show reminds us that our future is in God's hands. Thank you for being such a blessing and encouragement.Our oldest son and his wife had purchased a piece of property to build their house. I found a better piece of property and wanted to help them by lending them the money to buy the new property. The interest rate they would have to pay at the credit union was twice what I got in a high-interest savings account. So, I loaned them the money and told them I only wanted the interest rate. I'm a little conflicted on whether I should continue charging that interest, which they are paying monthly, or if I should just forgive that interest.Resources Mentioned:Compass Financial MinistrySplitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives by Ron Blue with Jeremy WhiteChristian 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.

Today’s parents have better ways to save for their kids’ college than existed a generation ago. So, are you making the most of your college savings program?It’s been less than 30 years since Congress authorized the tax-advantaged 529 plans. More options soon followed. Mark Biller joins us today with the pros and cons of several college-savings programs.Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. The Rising Cost of CollegeOver the past few decades, the cost of higher education has increased at a rate much higher than general inflation. Today, more than half of college graduates leave school with student loans, and the average debt load has nearly doubled in the last 15 years. For parents, saving for college can be daunting, but starting early is essential. For instance, if you have 14 years to save for a child’s education, you'll need to set aside about $520 per month to cover 70% of the four-year cost at a public institution. Waiting until your child is older will require much larger monthly contributions.One of the most important strategies is involving your children in the savings process. Helping them understand that any unmet costs will turn into debt in the future can encourage them to contribute through savings, summer jobs, scholarships, and financial aid. This also teaches them the value of disciplined saving.Best Programs for College SavingsWhile there are many options available for college savings, there are specifically three key vehicles: Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), 529 Plans, and Roth IRAs. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses.1. Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESAs)Coverdell ESAs offer flexibility in investment choices, allowing parents to make specific investment decisions and adjust their portfolios as needed. However, there are income limits for contributors and a maximum contribution of $2,000 per year, which may not be enough if you're starting late in the game.2. 529 PlansThese plans have become the most popular option for college savings. They offer tax-free growth on your investments as long as withdrawals are used for qualified educational expenses. Many states also provide tax benefits for contributions to 529 plans. While they don’t offer the same investment flexibility as Coverdell ESAs, they allow higher contribution limits and have no income restrictions, making them suitable for high-income families. Age-based portfolios, which automatically adjust investments as your child gets closer to college, can simplify the process for busy parents.3. Roth IRAsRoth IRAs are typically associated with retirement savings, but they can also be useful for college savings. You can withdraw contributions without penalties to pay for college expenses. However, you'll need to be at least 59½ years old to avoid penalties on earnings. Roth IRAs provide the flexibility to use the funds for retirement if your child doesn’t need them for college.Choosing the Right OptionWhen it comes to saving for college, it’s not necessarily about choosing one program over another. Parents can use a combination of these accounts, such as contributing to both a Roth IRA and a 529 plan. The key is to start early to maximize the benefits of compounding. The earlier you begin saving, the less you’ll need to set aside each month.With the rising cost of college, saving early is crucial to minimizing student debt for your children. Whether you choose a Coverdell ESA, 529 plan, Roth IRA, or a combination, the important thing is to take action. Don’t put this off. The earlier you make a decision to start contributing, the more you can get compounding working for your earnings.For more detailed information on these college savings options, you can visit Sound Mind Investing and read their full article, “Making the Most of Your College-Savings Program,” at SoundMindInvesting.org. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My question was about the 401(k) left to me by a dear friend who passed away. I'm 80 years old, and I understand I can't leave that 401(k) to anyone else as a beneficiary. I wanted to know if I could roll it over, put it in something else, or even take a penalty to access the funds since I'm not sure I'll be able to use it for very long, given my age. I was surprised to hear that I might be unable to name a beneficiary for the inherited 401(k), so I wanted to see if that was true. My auto insurance has significantly increased over the last two years, and it went up again with my latest policy renewal. I want to look for another auto insurance company, but I'm specifically looking for one that is biblically based and doesn't give money to organizations that go against my values. I'm already a Christian Community Credit Union member, so I wondered if they or any of their partners offer auto insurance options that align with my Christian beliefs.I'm a nurse who had to apply for Social Security benefits

They say life insurance is like a parachute. If you don’t have it the first time, odds are you won’t need it again.While that’s a funny line, all kidding aside, life insurance is the only way most people can provide for their families if they should die. But what happens when it ends?Term life insurance is often recommended due to its simplicity and affordability. Unlike whole life insurance, it doesn’t combine investing with a death benefit, allowing you to invest separately for better financial returns. But when your term life insurance expires, what should you do? Let’s explore the four options available to you.1. Let the Policy LapseWhen your term life insurance expires, you can choose to let the policy lapse. This option may make sense if you no longer need life insurance. For instance, if your kids are grown, out of the house, and supporting themselves, and your spouse’s income (plus Social Security survivor benefits) can cover their needs, you might find that life insurance is an unnecessary expense. In such cases, you can redirect that money into your retirement savings or other financial goals.2. Purchase a New Term PolicyYou may need a new term policy if you still have dependents who rely on your income or if your spouse’s income cannot cover your household expenses. A common recommendation is to aim for a death benefit that’s 10 to 12 times your annual salary.However, be prepared for higher premiums. The cost of a new policy increases with age, so a 50-year-old male could expect to pay around $80 a month for a $500,000 policy—about four times what a 30-year-old would pay for the same coverage. That said, you may need less coverage if the policy is intended only for your spouse, such as a policy that would cover your remaining mortgage balance.Ways to Reduce Premiums:Lower the death benefit: If a $500,000 policy is too expensive, consider reducing the coverage to $250,000 or another lower amount that still meets your needs.Shorten the term: If a 20-year term is costly, a 10-year term might be sufficient to ensure you meet financial obligations like paying off a mortgage. Pay annually: Some insurance companies offer a 5% discount if you pay your premiums in a lump sum once a year rather than monthly.3. Extend Your Current Policy Another option is to extend your existing term policy. The advantage here is that you won’t need a medical exam or any additional underwriting. However, the cost will likely be higher because the insurer assumes more risk by not evaluating your current health. If you’ve developed a severe medical condition that disqualifies you from purchasing a new policy, extending the current one may be your best option—if you can afford the premiums.4. Opt for a Simplified or Instant Issue PolicyIf extending your policy or getting a new one isn’t feasible, you can consider a "simplified term" or "instant issue" policy. These policies don’t require a medical exam, and you can often get approved online. However, there are some trade-offs:Smaller death benefit: Instant issue policies tend to offer lower coverage amounts.Shorter term: The length of the policy may be shorter than standard term policies.Higher premiums: The convenience of skipping a medical exam comes at a price, as these policies often cost more than traditional term policies.Despite these drawbacks, an instant issue policy could be a blessing if other options are unavailable due to medical conditions or financial constraints.When your term life insurance expires, you have several options, each with pros and cons. Whether you let the policy lapse, buy a new one, extend your existing coverage, or opt for a simplified policy, the best choice depends on your current financial situation and future needs. Evaluate your options carefully to ensure you’re providing for your loved ones in a way that aligns with your budget and long-term goals.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband's new church is providing a portion of his salary specifically for retirement, and they want us to manage it. We've already maxed out our Roth IRAs. What's the best way for us to save and invest this additional retirement money the church is giving us?I have a 22-year-old son who is graduating with a computer science degree. He's worked part-time since high school and is very frugal with his money. Now that he'll be making much more money in a full-time job, I don't have much financial wisdom to offer him when investing his money. What percentages should he put into savings versus investments? And what would be the best way for him to invest his money?Resources Mentioned:Open Hands FinanceList of Faith-Based Investing 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

Student loan forgiveness is much in the news these days. It’s on. It’s off. It’s on again, maybe. What’s the lesson here? The lesson is this: Avoiding student loan debt is much easier than getting out of it. It just takes discipline. We’ll talk about that with Dr. Art Rainer today. 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 “The Money Challenge for Teens: Prepare for College, Run from Debt, and Live Generously.” A Biblical Foundation for College FinancesWhen it comes to preparing for college, it’s important to keep Proverbs 22:7 in mind: “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.” This verse serves as a crucial reminder that borrowing money, especially for education, can lead to long-term financial burdens. It’s easy to accumulate tens of thousands of dollars in student debt that could take decades to repay.Four Strategies to Minimize College DebtIn The Money Challenge for Teens, Dr. Art Rainer outlines four key strategies to help students minimize, or even avoid, college debt:Start Saving Now: The sooner you begin saving for college, the less you’ll need to borrow.Take College-Level or AP Courses Now: These can reduce the number of credits you need to take in college, lowering your overall tuition costs.Explore Scholarships and Grants: There’s a wealth of financial aid available, but you need to seek it out and apply diligently.Be Willing to Work While in School: Many students work part-time jobs to help cover tuition and reduce the need for loans.While these strategies require effort and discipline, they’re far easier than paying back $30,000 or $40,000 in student loans after graduation.Avoiding Costly Misconceptions About CollegeDr. Art Rainer also shares a list of common misconceptions that can lead to unnecessary student debt. Understanding and avoiding these pitfalls can make the college journey much smoother:Misconception #1: Attending a Costly School Guarantees a Better Job: Higher tuition doesn’t always translate to higher salaries. Employers care about your degree, not how much you paid for it.Misconception #2: You Need the Whole “College Experience”: Some students work during college to offset tuition costs, which can prevent long-term debt.Misconception #3: It’s Okay to Stretch Out College: While there’s some flexibility, extending your degree program can increase costs and the risk of not completing your degree.Misconception #4: You Don’t Need to Know What You’re Signing: Educate yourself on student loans before signing anything. Understand the commitment and explore alternatives.Misconception #5: Everything Will Take Care of Itself: Student loans are difficult to escape, even surviving bankruptcy. It’s crucial to manage your debt and avoid complacency.Misconception #6: There’s No Other Option: While college costs are high, there are always options like scholarships, grants, and community college. Explore every avenue before taking on debt.Putting in the Hard Work NowIt’s far better to put in the hard work now—saving, applying for scholarships, and working while in school—than to be burdened with student debt later. By being proactive and informed, students can avoid the financial pitfalls that so many others face.For more insights and resources from Dr. Art Rainer, visit his website at ChristianMoneySolutions.com. If you’re interested in becoming a Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC), visit ChristianFinancialHealth.com. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:How could we use our required minimum distributions (RMDs) to make donations to the church and offset the tax impact? I’m looking for a formula or chart to help calculate the potential tax savings.I'm still working and scheduled to retire within the next couple of years. My employer has an actual person who manages our retirement plan, but I wanted to find out how to invest in things that align more with my faith and ensure I'm not supporting something I don't want to be supporting.Should I move my 403(b) funds to a CD ladder to safeguard them from market volatility, and would that result in a tax burden?How do I access the $36,000 cash surrender value of my 68-year-old friend's whole life insurance policy, and what happens when the policy is discontinued?Resources Mentioned:The Institute For Christian Financial HealthList of Faith-Based Investing 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 pe

“​​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?” - Matthew 6:26God has promised to provide, and He is ever faithful. Knowing that is one thing; believing and living by it is another. Taylor Standridge and Chad Clark join us today to launch a brand new tool to help you overcome financial fear and anxiety. Taylor Standridge and Chad Clark (along with Carolyn Calupca) are the authors of the new FaithFi devotional “Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety.” Chad Clark is also the Executive Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance, and Taylor Standridge is the Production Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance. Why This Devotional is So ImportantAt FaithFi, we're excited to introduce a brand new resource, Look at the Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety. This devotional, authored by Taylor Standridge and Chad Clark, with contributions from Carolyn Calupca, addresses one of the most pressing issues many people face today—financial anxiety. This resource is designed to guide you through the challenges of financial fear, helping you find peace and rest in God's promises.Financial anxiety is a struggle that many people face daily. Whether it's on the Faith and Finance radio program, through our app, or in our community, we hear about it all the time. Financial anxiety isn’t just about the numbers in your bank account; it runs much deeper, often affecting us on a spiritual level. This devotional was born out of a desire to help people recognize the root of their financial anxieties and to offer practical, biblical solutions that lead to peace.The Structure of the DevotionalThe devotional is beautifully structured into seven sections, each containing three devotionals. Each section begins with a portion of Jesus's Sermon on the Mount, and the following devotionals build on that theme. The sections cover topics like "You Can't Serve God and Money," "Don't Be Anxious About Your Life," and "Seek First the Kingdom of God."But this devotional is more than just a daily reading. It invites you to engage deeply with the content. Each day includes a Scripture passage, a devotional reflection, questions for deeper thought, a guided prayer, and a pivotal truth to ponder throughout the day. By the end of the 21 days, you'll have memorized Matthew 6:19-34, grounding you in God's Word as you navigate your financial journey.The Design Behind the DevotionalThe design of Look at the Sparrows is as thoughtful as its content. We wanted the design to reflect the experience of financial anxiety and the hope that God offers. The black-and-white theme symbolizes the darkness of fear, while a pop of gold represents both worldly treasure and the eternal hope we find in God. This design is intended to draw you into the devotional, helping you to focus on the themes of treasure, trust, and God's provision.Experiencing Peace Through Trust in GodOne of the key messages of this devotional is learning to trust God with your finances, freeing yourself from the grip of anxiety. We often try to control our financial future, but real peace comes when we trust that God knows our needs better than we do. This devotional encourages you to see God as your ultimate treasure, helping you to release your worries and rest in His provision.How to Get StartedWe invite you to dive into Look at the Sparrows and experience the transformation that comes from focusing on God's promises. You can learn more about this devotional and get your copy by visiting faithfi.com/sparrows.If you're looking for even more resources and want to support the work we do at FaithFi, consider becoming a monthly partner. As a FaithFi partner, you'll receive devotionals and studies before they're available to the public, plus you'll help sustain our radio program, podcast, website, and app. It's a meaningful way to invest in the kingdom work we're doing together. Become a FaithFi partner when you give a monthly gift of $35 or more a month to support the mission and ministry of FaithFi: Faith & Finance. Just go to FaithFi.com/give. We hope and pray that Look at the Sparrows will help you break free from the weight of financial fear and anxiety, guiding you toward God being your ultimate treasure as you find peace and rest in Him. Join us on this 21-day journey, and let God transform your perspective on finances and life.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a question about some faith-based brokerage firms. Many larger, more nationally known firms have a broader spectrum of offerings. I'm wondering if you know of one or where I could find information on one that might be better aligned with faith-based investing or more of a morally conservative values approach in many of their products.My husband is considering retiring in a couple of years, but we just realized that his life insurance is with his job, and we don

All your relationships—with your spouse, family, and friends—are important but temporary. Your only eternal relationship is with God.The bonds of family and friends help us thrive in this world, but they pale in comparison to the significance of our relationship with the Lord. Today, I’ll share some practical ways you can draw closer to God.Connecting Faith and Finances: Why Your Relationship with God Affects Your MoneyYou might wonder, "What does my relationship with God have to do with finances?" After all, this is a blog about money, right? Yes, but it’s also about faith. For Christians, faith and finances are deeply intertwined, and the Bible provides three key principles that connect the dots between the two.Principle 1: God Owns EverythingThe first principle is foundational: God created everything, and therefore, He owns everything. Colossians 1:16 makes this clear: “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.” This means that everything we possess is ultimately God’s, not ours.Principle 2: God Has Entrusted Us with ResourcesThe second principle is that God has given us everything we possess. James 1:17 says:“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” While God owns everything, He has entrusted us with resources to use temporarily as His stewards.Principle 3: God Desires a Close Relationship with UsThe third principle is that God is not distant or detached—He desires a close relationship with each of us. James 4:8 says: “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” We draw near to God by obediently following His Word. With over 2,300 verses about money and possessions in Scripture, God has made it clear that He wants us to manage money according to His principles.The Spiritual Impact of Money ManagementIn Luke 16:11, Jesus indicates that God uses money as a test: “If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches?” Jesus is saying that how you handle money affects your spiritual life. When you manage it well—according to biblical principles—you naturally grow closer to Christ. But if you don’t, your fellowship with the Lord suffers.Obstacles to Financial FaithfulnessBiblical money management is a practical way to improve your spiritual life, but obstacles can get in the way. Two types of disobedience can prevent us from handling money God’s way and growing closer to Him.Passive Disobedience: This is simply laziness. Some people don’t want to take the time to organize their finances, create a budget, or track their spending. While these tasks might only take a few hours a month, it’s often too much to bother with. Sadly, the same person might spend more time than that watching TV every night, and as a result, their intimacy with God suffers.Active Disobedience: For others, money and possessions actively compete with Christ. Jesus warns us in Matthew 6:24, “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” Some people believe they can surrender every part of their lives to Christ except for their finances. They might excel at making money, paying bills, saving, and investing, but they refuse to give Christ lordship over their finances. This resistance often centers around tithing or giving to God’s Kingdom, leading to a weakened relationship with Christ.Finally, there are those who don’t follow biblical financial principles yet believe their relationship with the Lord is just fine. To them, we might say, “What you don’t know will hurt you. What are you missing out on?” If that’s you, commit to the Lord in earnest prayer and follow through by managing your money and possessions according to His principles.Take the Next StepIf you’re ready to align your finances with your faith, start by downloading the free FaithFi app. It will help you set up a budget based on the envelope system and provide you with the best Christian financial content to grow closer to God. Commit to following His financial principles for three months and see if your relationship with the Lord becomes more intimate.Aligning your finances with God’s Word is not just about managing money; it’s about deepening your relationship with Christ. By faithfully stewarding the resources God has given you, you’ll experience the true riches of a closer walk with Him.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My kids are buying their first home, and I've offered to help them with the closing costs. Is giving them a loan or a gift better? What are the tax implications of each option?I just retired about three weeks ago, and I have a mortgage balance left on my house of about $26,000 with a 15-year term. We've been making e

You’ve probably heard it said that “anything worth doing is worth doing well.”Today, we’ll find out why working hard at something can pay big dividends—spiritually and financially.The Secret to Success: Discipline in Every Area of LifeWhat does it take to succeed? If you ask any successful person, they’ll likely tell you that success doesn’t happen by accident—it requires hard work, preparation, and the ability to learn from failure. As former U.S. Secretary of State General Colin Powell once said, “There is no secret to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.”Success demands more than wishful thinking, whether in finances, job, school, or relationships. It requires action and, most importantly, discipline.The Importance of DisciplineAthletes understand this concept well: the more reps you do in the gym or the more miles you run, the better you perform on competition day. The principle of “no pain, no gain” is universally recognized. Similarly, students who study consistently, take good notes, and complete their homework are better prepared to ace their exams.The same is true for your finances. Practicing discipline in saving, spending, and giving significantly increases your chances of achieving your financial goals. On the flip side, neglecting discipline now often leads to the pain of regret later. Hebrews 12:11 puts it this way:“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”Financial Disciplines and Their BenefitsThe Bible emphasizes the importance of discipline in the life of a Christian, both spiritually and practically. Growing as a disciple of Christ requires more than passive observation; it requires active engagement and discipline. While discipline may be challenging, it can also be a source of great joy. Let’s explore a few examples of financial discipline and its benefits.Consistent Saving: Perhaps you’ve committed to saving a portion of your paycheck every week. This discipline requires effort, but the benefit is the reduced stress about future financial needs. Regular saving builds a financial cushion, giving you peace of mind.Faithful Giving: Giving faithfully to the Lord requires discipline, but it comes with the joy of participating in God’s Kingdom work and the satisfaction of helping others. Generosity enriches your life in ways that money cannot.Paying Down Debt: It takes discipline to chip away at your debts, but the benefit is progress toward financial freedom. Imagine the joy and relief you’ll feel when you’re finally debt-free!Sticking to a Financial Plan: Adhering to a financial plan demands discipline, but it rewards you with peace and confidence. Knowing where each dollar comes from and where it’s going is essential for financial stability and success. If you’re not currently practicing the discipline of a spending plan, we can help. Download the FaithFi app or visit us online at FaithFi.com to create your personalized spending plan.The Joy of DisciplineBeing a good steward of the resources God has entrusted to you requires discipline. While the disciplines of saving, giving, paying off debt, and sticking to a plan may be challenging, they serve a higher purpose.As we read earlier in Hebrews, discipline can be painful, but it also brings joy. Here’s why:Positive Results: Discipline yields positive outcomes. In the realm of finances, you can rejoice when your savings grow, when you make progress in paying off debt, and when you see the fruits of your planning and generosity. These successes make the hard work worthwhile.Peace in Financial Stewardship: Following God’s principles of stewardship and integrity in money matters brings peace to your financial life. There’s a deep sense of satisfaction in knowing you’re managing your resources wisely.The Joy of Order: When you compare the chaos of financial mismanagement with the peace of careful stewardship, it’s easy to see which is more joyful. It’s far better to have all your financial “ducks” in a row than to be constantly chasing them.Overcoming SetbacksEven with the best intentions, none of us make the right financial choices every time. Whether you overspend your budget or miss a loan payment, it’s not the end of the world. Acknowledge your mistakes, seek help if necessary, submit your plans to the Lord, and get back on track. God has entrusted you with specific resources to manage, and when you exercise discipline with your money—and your spiritual life—you’ll experience a harvest of righteousness and peace. That’s true success in anyone’s book!On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I recently inherited a retirement account from my deceased husband. I want to convert the money into a down payment for a house, and I would like to know if you have any advice on the least painful way to do that.I'm 46, and I have a traditional IRA that I am strongly considering conve

You’ve saved up your downpayment and found the perfect house to buy. But have you considered closing costs?They’re really the first big expense you’ll have with home ownership. Which can you negotiate, and which are set in stone?The Hidden Costs of Homebuying: What You Need to Know About Closing CostsBuying a home is an exciting milestone, but amidst the thrill of owning your first house, it’s easy to overlook the long list of closing costs that come with it. Many people think that because these costs are often rolled into the mortgage, they don’t need to worry about them. However, understanding and negotiating these costs can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.For a typical mortgage, closing costs usually range between 3% to 6% of the mortgage amount. Let’s break it down with an example. Suppose you borrow $250,000 at 6.5% interest on a 30-year loan. Your monthly payment would be around $1,580. If your closing costs are on the higher end—say $15,000—and you roll them into your mortgage, you’re now borrowing $265,000 instead of $250,000. This increases your monthly payment by $95, leading to an additional cost of over $34,000 over the life of the loan.In short, closing costs matter. Being aware of them and negotiating where possible is crucial.Negotiable Closing CostsSome closing costs come with wiggle room, meaning you can negotiate them down. Here are a few:Homeowners Insurance: Your lender requires this, but you can shop around for the best rates. Don’t assume the insurer suggested by your lender or agent is the best option.Origination Fee: This fee typically covers the cost of underwriting the loan and is usually about 1% of the loan amount. Always ask to have it waived or lowered; you might not succeed, but asking costs nothing.Underwriting Fee: Some lenders charge this fee in addition to or instead of the origination fee. Again, you can negotiate this.Loan Application Fee: This one-time fee for processing your loan can also be a candidate for negotiation, especially if you’re already paying an origination or underwriting fee.Real Estate Commissions: Traditionally, sellers have paid the commissions for both the seller’s and buyer’s agents. However, recent changes in the real estate industry mean buyers may now be asked to contribute. It’s another area to negotiate.Title Insurance: You’ll need to buy lender’s title insurance, which only protects the lender. You can shop around for better rates and suggest a different insurer to your lender. Don’t forget to purchase owner’s title insurance to protect your ownership.Non-Negotiable Closing CostsWhile some closing costs can be negotiated, others are fixed. These include the appraisal fee, credit check fee, government fees (such as title transfers or recording costs), and property taxes. You should be prepared to pay these costs without expecting any leeway.The Importance of Integrity in Your Mortgage CompanyWith so much money on the line, it's essential to work with a mortgage company that operates with transparency and integrity. Movement Mortgage is a Christian mortgage company founded during the 2008 housing crisis. Its mission is to help homebuyers while glorifying God by positively impacting communities within the U.S. and abroad.Movement Mortgage offers competitive rates and the opportunity to be part of a global movement of change. The company has donated $377 million to community projects both locally and internationally. With locations in all 50 states, Movement Mortgage is a lender you can trust to guide you through the home-buying process with integrity.For more information, you can visit FaithFi.com/Movement.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Are permanent endowments biblical in a Christian context? I'm thinking of a Christian university, nonprofit, or other Christian organization with a permanent endowment where the original gift can never be touched and only the income can be used. What are your thoughts on the biblical perspective of this?I had a TIAA account that my husband took out as an adjunct professor at the local community college. It's just a small amount, and because I'm 76, I've been required to take a certain amount out each year. I want to give this to my son so those amounts can stay there and start accruing interest. Can I do that?I'm trying to mitigate the taxes on the sale of a rental house. Can I use the proceeds to satisfy my required minimum distribution (RMD), or does the RMD have to come from an IRA? Also, my husband has had a whole life insurance policy since he was 20. Is there ever a time when whole life insurance is beneficial?Resources Mentioned:Movement MortgageWill We Be Rewarded for Leaving Money to Christian Ministries in Our Wills? (Article by Randy Alcorn)Rich 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

A recent survey shows that most parents think they should teach their kids financial literacy; the good news is that many are actually doing it.Still, other parents may not know how to teach their kids financial responsibility. Ron Blue joins us today to discuss how he and his wife, Judy, did it.Ron Blue is the co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, including “Your Kids Can Master Their Money: Fun Ways to Help Them Learn How.”The Importance of Financial Education at HomeA recent survey by the Bank of Oklahoma Financial reveals that 85% of parents believe they should teach their kids about financial responsibility, with many acknowledging that this should also be a part of school curricula. However, a significant portion of parents, about one-third, feel that schools aren't sufficiently addressing this topic. Encouragingly, 65% of parents are actively teaching their children about money management.Children learn best by observing their parents’ financial habits. The old adage "more is caught than taught" rings true—kids learn to manage money by seeing how their parents handle it. However, teaching financial responsibility has become more challenging with the rise of credit cards and digital transactions.Age-Appropriate Lessons For ChildrenFor younger children, Ron Blue and his wife Judy used a simple yet effective method: the envelope system. Starting at age eight, their children received envelopes designated for different purposes: giving, saving, spending, gifts for the family, and clothing. This hands-on approach taught the kids about budgeting, prioritizing, and the importance of giving.As their children entered high school, they introduced them to more advanced financial tools, such as credit cards, while educating them about responsible usage. This early exposure helped their children understand the implications of credit and the importance of managing money in a digital society.Today, parents have even more resources at their disposal. Ron Blue suggests using debit cards and budgeting apps, such as the FaithFi app, to help children manage their finances. By teaching children about money early on, parents can equip them with the skills and wisdom needed to navigate the financial challenges of life.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I had a stroke and had to retire early, and now the only thing I have is my home. I received a letter about a reverse mortgage, and I was wondering if that could help me.I was just curious about your thoughts on Fisher Investments and whether 1.25% is too much to pay for the management of my funds.I'm on disability, and I'm eligible for Social Security, but I can't draw both at the same time. My Social Security is substantially higher than what my wife would be. Can she draw mine?I have a mortgage on a new home and want to refinance due to the high interest rate, but I'm unsure if I should wait, recast the loan, or put money towards the principal. What are the advantages of those options?Resources Mentioned:SSA.gov (Social Security Administration)Zillow.comRich 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.

“We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.” - Romans 6:6Being born again in Christ changes a person. We’re given a new nature that fights against our old, corrupt nature. Sometimes, the evidence of this is in the area of finances. Straight ahead—a journey to faithful stewardship.Bobby’s TestimonyIt's always a great privilege to connect with people, answer their financial questions, and offer help whenever possible. Recently, we spoke with Bobby from Nebraska, whose story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith and determination.Bobby was in a tough spot. He had accumulated significant debt, including a car repossession, delinquent medical and credit card debt, and unpaid overdraft loans sent to collections. But despite his financial struggles, Bobby was committed to turning his life around. When asked if anything had changed in his life since accumulating that debt, Bobby shared his story.In his own words, Bobby explained, “Back then, I was big into partying and addicted to drugs. I sold drugs and went to prison for it. Well, now I'm clean and sober. I don't do any of that anymore. I actually have money in my bank account. September 10th, 2021, was the biggest start of it. That’s when I gave my life to Jesus Christ. And now I'm just trying to get everything back in line and where it needs to be.”Hearing how Bobby’s life has changed since inviting Christ in as his Savior was truly inspiring. His commitment to sobriety and financial stewardship is a powerful example of God’s redemptive power.Steps Toward Financial FreedomA few weeks ago, we advised Bobby to take several steps to get his finances in order. First, we recommended that he pull copies of his credit reports from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion to identify all his debts. Then, we suggested he contact Christian Credit Counselors to help manage his credit card debt through a debt management plan, which would consolidate his payments and help him pay off his debt faster.We also offered to connect Bobby with one of our Certified Christian Financial Counselors (CertCFC) at no charge. This counselor would work with him one-on-one to develop a budget and create a plan for paying off his old debts. Finally, we took a moment to pray with Bobby, thanking God for His miraculous intervention and the gift of eternal life that Bobby had received.Biblical Principles Guiding Bobby's TransformationBobby’s journey highlights several biblical principles that are now guiding his life:The Body as a Temple: Bobby’s decision to give up drugs aligns with 1 Corinthians 6:19, which reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. Recognizing that we are not our own but belong to God is a powerful motivator for making healthy choices.Humility: Bobby’s willingness to seek help, even on a public platform, reflects the humility described in Proverbs 22:4: “The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.”Honesty: Bobby’s commitment to owning up to his debt is a reflection of the biblical principle of honesty. Exodus 20:16 and Colossians 3:9 teach us the importance of living truthfully, especially as followers of Christ.Repaying Debts: The Bible emphasizes the importance of repaying what we owe. Psalm 37:21 says, “The wicked borrows but does not pay back, but the righteous is generous and gives.” Bobby’s desire to pay off his debt is a step toward fulfilling this principle.Stewardship: Perhaps the most significant principle guiding Bobby now is stewardship. He wants to manage his finances faithfully, in line with 1 Corinthians 4:2: “It is required of stewards that they be found faithful.”We were grateful to help Bobby on his journey to faithful stewardship, and we want to extend that same help to you. If you’re struggling with your finances, need help creating a budget, or want to develop a plan to pay down debt and start saving, please reach out to us. We’re here to help you take the next step toward financial freedom and faithful stewardship.Bobby’s story is a powerful reminder that with God’s help, it’s never too late to turn your life around and get back on track. If you’re ready to take that step, we’re here to walk alongside you.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 70 and have a lot saved in my retirement accounts. I want to help my daughter and son-in-law, who are in their 20s, buy their first home. What's the best way for me to gift them money from my 401(k) without creating tax issues?I renovated a duplex and am having trouble renting it out. Should I sell the property to avoid capital gains taxes or keep trying to find tenants?I rent out a 3-unit apartment building. Would applying for an LLC benefit this rental property?Resources Mentioned:Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC

18th Century preacher John Wesley said, "Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can."That’s how Christians can respond to God's generous and faithful love. Specifically, Jesus called his followers to do good to the poor, and we’ll talk about what that looks like for us.The Biblical Foundation for GivingGenerosity towards the needy is a central tenet of Christian living. Jesus emphasized the importance of loving our neighbors as ourselves, and one of the most tangible ways to do this is by helping those in need. Acts of kindness, empathy, and compassion are not just suggestions—they are essential expressions of our faith.In Luke 12:32-34, Jesus tells His disciples:“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”This passage clearly shows that God expects us to be generous givers. However, generosity doesn’t stand in opposition to good stewardship. In fact, biblical stewardship involves surrendering everything to God, acknowledging that all we have belongs to Him.God calls us to be generous with the resources He has entrusted to us, and He promises to provide for our needs as we do so. John Wesley’s encouragement to “do all the good we can by all the means we can” aligns perfectly with this biblical principle.Reflecting God’s Character Through GivingC.S. Lewis once remarked, “I am afraid the only safe rule is to give more than we can spare.” This highlights the idea that our commitment to generosity should be wholehearted. Opportunities to help the poor will always be available, as Deuteronomy 15:11 reminds us: “the poor will never cease to be in the land.” The Bible encourages us to take these opportunities, whether the needy are fellow believers, those outside the faith, or even our enemies.In biblical times, generosity was more than just giving money; it also meant showing mercy and compassion. This teaches us that practicing righteousness through generosity reflects God’s character and His concern for all people. Proverbs 14:31 emphasizes this connection: “The one who oppresses a poor man insults his maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.”Helping the poor is a reflection of God’s character. The Bible describes God as compassionate, gracious, and merciful and calls us to embody these attributes. Psalm 82:3-4 instructs us to "Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked." Through our generosity, we demonstrate God’s love and justice to the world.The Complexity of Poverty AlleviationHowever, helping the poor isn’t always straightforward. A common dilemma is how to assist without enabling dependency or perpetuating poverty. The Chalmers Center points out that poverty is not just a lack of material resources; it’s a complex issue involving broken relationships with God, self, others, and creation. Effective poverty alleviation must address these spiritual, relational, and material aspects.To avoid harmful giving, they recommend:Avoiding handouts that create dependency.Developing supportive relationships with those being helped.Being cautious about providing goods that can be sourced locally, which could undermine local businesses.Encouraging individuals to use their gifts and abilities.Focusing on long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes.Understanding the full complexity of poverty allows Christians to help in ways that promote dignity, sustainability, and genuine transformation.For those interested in learning more about how to alleviate poverty effectively, consider reading “When Helping Hurts: How To Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting The Poor…and Yourself” and exploring the work of The Chalmers Center. Their research provides valuable insights into this important issue.Ultimately, Christians give generously and compassionately to the poor because we love God, who first loved us. As Irish missionary Amy Carmichael wisely said, “You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving.” Let our actions reflect this profound truth as we seek to embody God’s love through our generosity.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a grandson who will be a senior this year and is going to an expensive aviation school for flight school. I would love to help him and pay for the whole thing if necessary, but I don't want just to give him the money. How do I balance helping him financially while also having him work for it and not creating dependency?I currently have a mortgage of about $20,000, and I want to move to a different location. Would i

Owning rental property is like ordering a pizza with anchovies. It’s not for everybody.There’s no question that renting a property can be a lucrative investment, but it’s certainly not a passive investment like owning stock.Owning rental property is attractive for many, but it’s not a perfect fit for everyone. Just like not everyone enjoys anchovies, not everyone has the temperament or resources to be a landlord. Before diving into property management, it’s essential to understand the benefits and challenges of it. Let's explore these aspects to help you decide if being a landlord is right for you.The Pros of Owning Rental Property1. Income StreamThe primary allure of owning rental property is the potential for rental income. If managed well, a rental property can provide a steady cash flow. However, if you have a mortgage on the property, it’s crucial that your rental income covers your mortgage payments and other expenses to avoid a negative cash flow.2. Property AppreciationReal estate typically appreciates over time, meaning your rental property will likely increase in value. This can result in a substantial profit when you decide to sell. However, it’s important to remember that capital gains taxes may apply to this profit.3. Tax BenefitsThe IRS offers several tax deductions for rental property owners. You can deduct expenses such as insurance, mortgage interest, and maintenance costs. Additionally, you can claim depreciation, though this will lower your cost basis and may increase capital gains taxes when you sell the property.4. Personal Use of PropertyIf you own a rental property in a desirable location, like a beach house, you can use it for personal vacations up to 14 days a year (or 10% of the days you rent it out) and still deduct your expenses.5. Renting Out Part of Your HomeYou don’t necessarily need to own a separate rental property. Renting out a portion of your own home, like a garage or basement, allows you to earn rental income and deduct a portion of your mortgage interest and other related expenses.The Cons of Being a Landlord1. High Initial CostsIf you don’t already own a property, buying one to rent can require a significant upfront investment. This often means taking on a mortgage, which you’ll need to cover through rental income. Ensuring that your rental income exceeds your expenses is crucial.2. Lack of LiquidityUnlike money in a checking account, which is highly liquid, funds tied up in real estate are not easily accessible. Selling a property takes time and may not always be an option when you need quick cash.3. Uncontrollable CostsOwning property means dealing with ongoing expenses like taxes and insurance, which can increase over time. Additionally, external factors, such as a decline in the neighborhood, can make it harder to rent out your property or affect its value.4. Tenant ChallengesTenants can be unpredictable. Some may pay rent late or cause damage to the property beyond what a security deposit covers. Even with good tenants, there’s always the need to keep the property in good repair, which can involve unexpected maintenance calls at inconvenient times.5. The Reality of Being a LandlordManaging a rental property requires time, effort, and a firm hand. Being a landlord can be challenging, from finding and vetting tenants to handling late payments or evictions. If these responsibilities sound overwhelming to you, consider hiring a property management company, which typically takes about 10% of your rental income.Seeking Wisdom in Your DecisionDeciding whether to become a landlord is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. It’s important not to make this decision alone. Involve God in your decision-making process. James 1:5 encourages us: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” Seek His guidance in prayer as you contemplate this big step, and trust that He will lead you on the right path.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I received an email from AT&T about a data breach that exposed my personal information. They offered free credit monitoring, but I'm concerned the email may not be genuine. How can I determine if the email is legitimate?I have a question about the guaranteed rates, whether it's high-interest savings or short-term CDs versus a mortgage rate that I locked in back in 2021, which is around 2%. With no additional debt, how do you feel about the balance of making more on my savings versus paying down my low-interest mortgage?Right now, during open enrollment at my work, they offer two insurance plan options—a standard PPO plan and a high-deductible HSA-eligible one. Interestingly, they are paying the full premium for both plans, so I have no difference in the premium cost. Which plan would be best for me to enroll in: the standard PPO or the high-deductible HSA plan?My mother-in-law passed away at the end of December, and upon her death, the hous

More stress doesn’t always equal a higher salary, and if you bring home the stress along with the salary, is it really worth it? If that describes you, maybe it’s time to re-think the purpose of your work. Some statistics claim that 54% of American employees are happy with their jobs, while others claim that 83% are suffering from work-related stress.A Different Question: Why Are You Working?Whether the statistics are accurate or not, stress is a pervasive issue, and work is often a significant contributor. The question arises: What should you do if work-related pressure overwhelms you? Quit? Change careers? Or just grit your teeth and keep pushing through?As believers in Christ, it's essential to step back and ask a fundamental question: Why are we working in the first place? Our desire to do productive, meaningful work is woven into our very DNA. When God created Adam and Eve, He immediately gave them work to do—naming the animals and tending the garden. However, sin has twisted work, and it’s no longer always the fulfilling task God intended. Now, work can be a source of frustration and even illness.Colossians 3:23-24 offers the key to finding purpose and contentment in our jobs: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” This scripture reminds us that no matter what job we do, we are ultimately serving God. When we shift our perspective from working for ourselves or even our employers to working for Jesus, our work gains deeper meaning and satisfaction.The Proverbs 31 Woman: A Model of Noble Work EthicFor a practical example of someone who worked as unto the Lord, we can look to the woman described in Proverbs 31. Though we don’t know her name, her virtue and work ethic are clearly outlined, and her actions are worth emulating.Eager Hands: She approaches her work with a positive attitude, understanding that diligence yields benefits.Provision for Family: She takes her responsibility to provide for her family seriously, even rising early to meet their needs.Skillful Expertise: She is wise in her business dealings and uses her skills to benefit her family and community.Vigorous Effort: She works with strength and determination, not idly wasting time but striving to live well.Generosity: Her success allows her to be generous, extending help to those in need.Wisdom and Teaching: Her experience enables her to teach others, and her work ethic benefits everyone around her.Avoiding Idleness: She does not succumb to laziness, understanding the importance of being productive.Most importantly, the Proverbs 31 woman’s actions are driven by her reverence for the Lord: “A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Her success and fulfillment in work are rooted in her desire to serve God.Trusting God with Your WorkAs you navigate the stress and challenges of your job, remember the wisdom of Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” By trusting in God and focusing on serving Him through our work, we can find the strength and guidance needed to overcome job stress and fulfill our true purpose.Work may sometimes feel overwhelming, but when we keep our focus on serving God, we can approach our tasks with diligence, wisdom, and generosity. Let’s strive to work as unto the Lord, knowing that He will provide the strength and direction we need to fulfill our calling.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband and I are in our mid-20s and expecting our first baby in a few months. We've been told about a 529 college savings account, and I'd like your suggestions on setting her up for future financial success. Would starting a 529 account be a good place to start, or do you have any other ideas?I have a testimony, a confession, and a question. My testimony: Your program inspired us to pay off $36,000 in credit card debt instead of filing for bankruptcy. My confession: We've never successfully made a budget. It gives me anxiety and past attempts have been frustrating. My question: How can I create and stick to a budget? I'm scared to try.Resources Mentioned:SavingForCollege.comRich 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.

Thanks to insurance, we don’t very often have bank, savings and loans, or credit union “runs” anymore. Aaron Caid is with us today to discuss how that came about.Aaron Caid is the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. The Role of FDIC in Banking StabilityWhen we think about bank runs, we often think of the Great Depression. Thankfully, such events are rare today, primarily due to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) 's creation through the Banking Act of 1933. The FDIC now insures bank deposits up to $250,000 per customer, providing peace of mind for depositors across the United States.But what about other financial institutions like savings and loans (also known as thrifts) and credit unions? Most of these institutions are also insured by the FDIC, while many credit unions are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), established in 1970. Like the FDIC, the NCUA insures deposits up to $250,000 per customer (or tax ID).Private Deposit Insurance: A Closer LookInterestingly, some credit unions opt for private insurance rather than federal insurance. Christian Community Credit Union is insured by American Share Insurance (ASI), a private insurer celebrating its 50th anniversary. ASI covers deposits up to $250,000 per account, offering a unique advantage over federal insurance, which insures per tax ID.No holder of an ASI-insured account has ever lost a dime, a testament to its reliability. One of the main reasons CCCU members chose private insurance is the flexibility it provides, particularly in lending to churches and ministries—an essential aspect of CCCU’s mission. Additionally, ASI requires its member credit unions to maintain a 30% higher deposit ratio, ensuring greater resources and liquidity during challenging times.For those who might be hesitant about private deposit insurance, consider the fact that your home is likely insured by a private company, not the federal government. Private insurance companies have been around much longer than federal insurance corporations, with the first private insurers dating back to 1732.Why Choose Christian Community Credit Union?There are several compelling reasons to consider banking with CCCU:Conservative Biblical Stewardship: CCCU practices conservative financial management, aligning with biblical principles. The credit union carries zero debt, unlike many banks and credit unions that leverage their balance sheets to inflate returns.Strong Financial Stability: CCCU’s capitalization ratio is more than 80% higher than what the NCUA considers “well-capitalized,” and its net worth ratio places it in the top 10% of all credit unions. CCCU has been recognized as a “top 100” credit union nationwide for safety, stability, and growth by S&P Global.Christian Values and Giving: CCCU is unapologetically Christian and a member-owned not-for-profit. Profits are returned to members through better rates and lower fees, and the credit union actively supports Christian ministries, including Mission Aviation Fellowship and International Ministries.Top-Notch Financial Products: CCCU offers competitive financial products, such as high-yield checking and savings accounts, CDs, and the Cash Rewards Visa, which contributes to Christian charities with every swipe.For those interested in learning more about Christian Community Credit Union, Aaron encourages you to visit JoinChristianCommunity.com. Discover how you can benefit from a credit union that prioritizes safety, stability, and a commitment to Christian values.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband and I are past full retirement age and haven't filed Social Security claims yet. We've been married 43 years, are in good health, and have no dependents or government pensions. My husband is still working and plans to file at 70. If I start Social Security now, I will receive $1,369 monthly, increasing slightly at 69 and 70. We're considering starting my benefits now for two years and then switching to a spousal benefit. What do you think?I used to sell tax shelter annuities and have experience, but occasionally, I hear financial guys knocking them, saying they are not a good investment. However, I think annuities are some of the best. What are your thoughts on annuities?I am turning 65 this January. I have been working full-time at the same job for 26 years, but I am still determining when I'll retire. My question is, do I need to sign up for Medicare within three months of my 60th birthday to avoid a lifetime late enrollment penalty? Or do I wait until I'm retired? I need clarification on the process.I used to work at a hospital and have a 401(k) there, but I've been unemployed for about 90 days. So I could use maybe $1,000 or $2,000 of those dollars. They told me that if I cash out the 401(k), I'll pay 35 or 40% in taxes. If I roll it over to another IRA, I will only pay taxes on what I borrow. Is that true? What's the best t

1 John 2:15 contains a command and a warning for Christians: “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.”You have a choice—to be worldly or Kingdom-minded with your finances. But beware—God’s way is definitely counter-cultural.What Does Your Money Say About Your Values?In today’s world, many people are inclined to fit in, follow the crowd, and keep up with the Joneses. But as Christians, we are called to live by a different set of values—values that often stand in stark contrast to the norms of society. This counter-cultural way of thinking was exemplified by Jesus throughout His ministry and applies to every aspect of our lives, including how we handle money.The critical question we must ask ourselves is this: Do our actions and attitudes around money reflect the world’s values or God’s? To explore this, let’s imagine a simple exercise. Picture a piece of paper divided down the middle. On one side, we list the world’s messages about money and possessions; on the other, we record what God’s Word says about these same issues. The differences are like night and day.Worldly Messages vs. God’s TruthWorldly Message: God is irrelevant, and nothing—including your financial decisions—truly matters. God’s Truth: Our God is living, loving, and intimately involved in our lives (Matthew 16:16, 1 John 4:16). What we do, including how we manage our money, matters deeply (Ephesians 2:10). Worldly Message: Keeping things brings blessing. God’s Truth: Generosity brings true blessing (Proverbs 22:9, Acts 20:35). Worldly Message: You’re on your own—do it yourself, with no accountability. God’s Truth: The Creator is always with us, our best source of help (Psalm 23:4, Psalm 121:2). Worldly Message: The goal of life is to accumulate more—more wealth, influence, and security. God’s Truth: Earthly things will fade away, but knowing and loving God has eternal value (Jeremiah 9:23-24). Seek God first, and everything else will fall into place (Matthew 6:33). Worldly Message: Wealth and success justify pride. God’s Truth: Pride leads to destruction, while humility brings victory (Proverbs 16:18, 1 Peter 5:5). Worldly Message: If someone wrongs you, it’s okay to seek revenge. God’s Truth: We are called to repay evil with blessing, inheriting a blessing ourselves in the process (1 Peter 3:9). Worldly Message: You can own things without consequence. God’s Truth: Possessions often end up owning you. True freedom is found in knowing Christ (John 8:32).The Clash of WorldviewsThe divide between secular and Christian worldviews is vast, especially when it comes to money. One of the most significant clashes is over the love of money. The world might say it’s acceptable, even for Christians, to love money. But Jesus makes it clear that it’s impossible to serve both God and money simultaneously (Matthew 6:24).As Christians, we’re meant to stand out because we serve a different Lord. James 4:4 reminds us that “friendship with the world is enmity with God.” But does this mean we should isolate ourselves from the world? Not at all.Jesus showed us a different way to live—serving others, loving deeply, and challenging cultural norms about relationships and possessions. He was a revolutionary, not just in His time but for all time. As His followers, we’re called to do the same: replace greed with generosity, exchange disrespect for love, and be counter-cultural in how we give our time, care, and resources.Your Financial Choices MatterYour financial decisions are more than just personal—they’re a reflection of your heart and an example to others. When you handle money with honesty, faithfulness, and generosity, people notice, and the blessings that follow are evident.The apostle Peter calls us “sojourners and exiles” (1 Peter 2:11) because this world is not our ultimate home. Yet, while we’re here, we have a mission: to love and serve others in a way that stands out, giving glory to God. In our financial choices and in all aspects of our lives, let’s choose to live differently, as Christ did.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm curious if there's a specific time frame when you should consider paying a financial advisor to manage your IRAs or if you should just let someone who isn't paying much attention to them look at them.I have about $400,000 in CDs and money market accounts. Is there something better than CDs in which I should put my money? I know CDs are pretty safe, but I'm wondering if there are better options.I'm 58, and I earn $98,000 a year. I'm currently renting, but it's costly. I want to buy a home but wonder if I'm too old. What do you think? I want to make a biblically sound decision.My wife and I have roughly 300,000 sets up, and we are thinking about buying the property at the beach to enjoy life with what we saved up with our grandkids. I wonder if that's a good idea or investment because I know I can sell it anytime.We have a revocable trust, e

The world is becoming more complex every day. Technology solves problems and creates new ones. How do you keep up?Among so many other things today, maybe you’ve noticed that managing your finances is increasingly complicated and involves more than balancing a checkbook. Sharon Epps joins us today with some much-needed advice—the 5 Ds of a Financial Reset.Sharon Epps is the president of Kingdom Advisors, FaithFi’s parent organization. Kingdom Advisors serves the broad Christian financial industry by educating and equipping professionals to integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.1. Define Your Financial VisionThe first step in a financial reset is to Define your standard of living. This goes beyond just wanting financial health; it’s about understanding your deeper motivations. What is your “why”? The Bible reminds us in John 10:10 that Jesus came so that we might have life and have it abundantly. This abundant life isn’t about wealth but about living a life full of peace and purpose. Define what that means for you and let it guide your financial decisions.2. Declutter Your Life and FinancesNext, it’s time to Declutter—and not just your finances but your physical space as well. Spend a weekend going through your home, room by room, asking yourself if each item is still useful. If you haven’t used something in the last year, consider selling it or giving it away. Decluttering your home can go a long way toward decluttering your life, making space for what truly matters.3. Delay Impulse PurchasesThe third step is to Delay your impulse purchases. Create a list of things you want to buy and note the date next to each item. Commit to waiting 30 days before making any purchase. More often than not, you’ll find that you didn’t really need or want the item after all. This simple habit can help you make more intentional spending decisions.4. Detect Spending HabitsThe fourth “D” is Detect. For 30 days, track all your spending and review your expenses. With today’s technology, this process is easier than ever since most of us rarely use cash. You can quickly review your bank and credit card statements online. As you do this, ask yourself what you would change. The FaithFi app is a great tool for this. It allows you to combine all your accounts in one place and helps you and your spouse stay on the same page regarding your finances.5. Decide on Your Spending and Giving PlansFinally, it’s time to Decide on your financial future. Overhaul your budget, check your priorities, and decide where your money will go. Make “giving” an essential part of your budget. Consider where you can cut expenses to be more generous, whether to your church or a ministry you’re passionate about. This step is about re-establishing your priorities and returning to the basics—financially and spiritually.The “5 Ds of a Financial Reset” offers a practical and spiritual approach to managing your finances in today’s complex world. By defining your financial vision, decluttering your life, delaying impulse purchases, detecting spending habits, and deciding on your budget, you can regain control of your finances and realign them with your spiritual values. Remember, tools like the FaithFi app can make this process even easier, helping you stay organized and focused on what truly matters.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I plan to retire in a couple of years and work with two different financial advisors. One advisor suggested that I defer my Social Security until age 67 to get a higher monthly benefit. The other advisor says I should start taking Social Security right away so I don't have to withdraw as much from my 401(k), which has over $1 million. I'm trying to decide which approach is better for my situation. What are your thoughts on whether I should delay Social Security or start taking it earlier?I recently got a letter from the IRS stating that I have a retirement fund in another state that I completely forgot about. I've lived in several states and tried to reach out to the previous employer, but they keep giving me different numbers to call, and no one is able to help me locate this account. Should I be concerned about this? Will the IRS handle it for me since they received the 1099 form?My wife and I are both retired - I'm 65, and she's 66. We bought a condo for $280,000 about four months ago and financed $80,000. We plan to stay there forever, and our kids are not interested in the condo when we're done with it. I wonder if getting a reverse mortgage on that $80,000 would be a smart idea for us. We don't have a tremendous amount saved for retirement, but we should be able to get by on our Social Security. Would a reverse mortgage make sense in our situation?I recently inherited some money from my mother, who passed away last fall. I'm looking for the best place to invest that money to get the best CD rates. What would be the best way for me to find the highest CD rates to invest this money?Resources Mentioned:Unde

From hats in the hall closet…to bats in the belfry, we can help you save money on the basics.Today, we’ll offer you a few common-sense strategies for saving money on three basic necessities: clothing, utilities, and home maintenance.Saving on ClothingWhen it comes to clothing, it’s easy to get tempted by sales or the latest trends. This is especially true if you have kids, especially teenagers, with rapidly changing sizes and opinions on what’s “cool.” But keeping your family’s wardrobe sharp doesn’t have to break the bank.Shop Thrift Stores: You don’t have to buy new. Thrift stores offer deals on current styles and wardrobe basics. This is a great way to save, especially if you have kids. Teenagers might resist, but give them a budget and challenge them to find something they like. It’s a fun way for them to learn the value of money and creativity.Consignment Stores: Consider shopping at consignment stores, where you can find stylish clothing at a fraction of the cost. Plus, when you’re done with your gently used items, you can trade them in for cash or discounts, adding money back into your clothing budget.Re-think Your Wardrobe: Instead of filling your closet with items you’ll only wear once or twice, focus on versatile, high-quality basics. A good pair of slacks or a neutral skirt can serve multiple purposes, from work to church or an evening out. Spend on these core items and use accessories and thrift store finds to add variety.Cutting Down on Utility BillsUtilities are another area where costs can quickly add up, but there are several ways to save.Energy-Efficient Appliances: Invest in energy-efficient appliances when it’s time to replace your old ones. While it may cost more upfront, these appliances will save you money in the long run. You can also find deals on “scratch and dent” models, which are new but have minor cosmetic flaws.LED Lighting: Switch to LED bulbs; although they’re more expensive initially, they last longer and use less energy, reducing your electricity bills over time.Utility Rebates: Check with your utility company for rebates on energy-efficient systems like electric hybrid water heaters or smart thermostats. These rebates can help offset the initial costs of upgrading your home’s energy systems.Simple Habits: To further reduce your energy consumption, unplug appliances, turn off electronics, and adjust your thermostat when you’re not at home.Smart Home MaintenanceRegular maintenance is crucial to avoid costly repairs if you own a home. Here are some tips to keep your home in good shape:HVAC Maintenance: Have your heating and air conditioning system checked annually to ensure it’s running efficiently, especially before the peak seasons of summer and winter.Seal Air Leaks: Check the caulking around windows, doors, and light fixtures annually. Replace weather stripping if necessary, and consider adding insulation if your home feels too warm in summer or too cold in winter. Again, utility companies often offer rebates for insulation upgrades.Roof and Attic Checks: Remember your attic. If unused, ensure it’s not becoming a home for critters. Rodents and other animals can cause significant damage, including chewing on electrical wires, which is a fire hazard.By taking simple, proactive steps in clothing, utilities, and home maintenance, you can manage your money more effectively and keep your expenses under control. These practical tips are designed to help you save more while still maintaining a comfortable and stylish lifestyle.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm in my 70s, and my spouse and I have been married for over two years. I've saved a significant amount of money initially kept in a lockbox. After selling my condo, I put that money into a couple of CDs, as they offered the best rates. These CDs will earn me over $4,000 a year in interest. I also have a few thousand dollars more that I need help with. I'm concerned that depositing this large cash amount in the bank might raise money laundering suspicions with the government.My dad passed away over a year ago, and my mom is trying to get Social Security benefits. However, neither of them has the required 40 credits. Can they combine their credits to qualify?My question concerns an income property that I have. Is it better to keep it during my retirement or sell it? My main concern is the capital gains tax I'll incur when I sell it since I've owned it for over 20 years, and it's depreciated.Do you consider classic cars a viable option for possibly a small part of a retirement portfolio?Resources Mentioned:Wise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan, JD. \Bankrate.comRich 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 availab

Psychologist and educator Fitzhugh Dodson wrote, “Without goals and plans to reach them, you are like a ship that has set sail with no destination.”Of course, goals don’t amount to much unless you have a plan to reach them. That planning should involve more than building your net worth. Ron Anderson joins us today to discuss life planning— what is it, how to do it, and why you should.Ron Anderson is the Founder & President of Plan A Wealth Management in Lincoln, Nebraska.What Is Life Planning?Life planning goes beyond setting financial goals; it’s about discovering and fulfilling your purpose. It involves asking yourself why you want to be financially successful and what you will do to accomplish your bigger goals in life. It’s about making a difference and living out the reason God put you on this planet.The core of life planning is about introspection and alignment with God’s purpose for your life. We were all created on purpose for a purpose, and life planning helps us ask the tough questions to design a life that truly matters. It ensures that your goals are in line with God’s plan for you, helping you avoid the pitfall of pursuing the world's definition of success while missing out on the unique contribution you are meant to make.The Role of a Financial Planner in Life PlanningA financial planner can be instrumental in helping you navigate your life planning journey. They can assist in determining how much you need to live the life God is calling you to. This includes helping you set a reasonable lifestyle, preparing for God’s nudges, and ensuring that you are ready to say "yes" when He calls. A planner can also help you clarify your goals, understand how major life events fit into your vision, and identify opportunities to make the most meaningful impact.Scripture provides a strong foundation for life planning. Ephesians 5:15-17 urges us to live wisely, making the most of every opportunity and understanding the will of the Lord:“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.”Ephesians 2:10 also reminds us that we are God’s masterpiece, created to do the good things He planned for us long ago. This is why it’s so vital to live purposefully and intentionally, aligning our lives with God’s plans.If you're interested in exploring life planning further, you can visit PlanAWM.com, where you can schedule an appointment and speak with a member of their team.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've been contemplating leaving my assets from a soon-to-be-settled divorce to my children, who are in their 20s, and I'm just not sure I'm going to do that. All that said, I am very ill and have been around the world eight times trying to get well. The main question is, with Social Security Disability, how do income and assets affect Social Security Disability?I've had a life insurance policy for about 20 years, which will expire when I turn 76 unless I choose to pay a significantly higher premium at age 82. This means I have around five years left on it. I wanted to "cash it in," but when I contacted the company, they informed me that this is not possible with my term life policy. I came across a company called Coventry on TV, which seems to buy life insurance policies and provide cash in return. Can you explain how this works?I'm in my early to mid-70s and have a small to medium investment account. I have it securely invested in a G-Fund within my TSP. I'm curious about the market's future, especially since it's at an all-time high and has performed well this year. Given that it's an election year, and I haven't researched historical trends during such times, do you think the market will continue to rise? I'm considering converting a significant portion of my G-Fund to the C-Fund, which tracks the S&P 500. What is your outlook on the S&P 500 for the rest of the year?A few months ago, my mom passed away, and I was initially told I needed to go to probate court. At the courthouse, I was given a list of documents to bring, including the title to my mom's house and property. After reviewing these documents for a few minutes, the probate office informed me that I have a life estate, so probate isn't necessary, which contradicts their earlier statement. They mentioned it needed rights of survivorship, which it didn't have. I'm now confused about whether I need to go to probate or not.A few months ago, I heard about Social Security benefits for those in their 60s. I visited the Social Security office last week and asked why the surviving spouse seems penalized after a spouse's death. I feel like I'm losing my benefits despite working for them, as I can only take survivor benefits if my husband passes before me. The representative couldn't explain the reasoning. How can I advocate for a change to this rule, as its purpose is unclear to me?Resources Mentioned:Plan