Podcast appearances and mentions of brian fikkert

Are our efforts to help the poor always helpful, or could they sometimes do more harm than good? On today's Faith & Finance Live, Dr. Brian Fikkert will join Rob West to explore how short-term missions can genuinely reflect the heart of Christ and bring lasting change—without unintentionally hurting the very people we aim to serve. Then Rob will answer your questions on different financial topics. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are our efforts to help the poor always helpful, or could they sometimes do more harm than good?Today, we'll explore how short-term missions can genuinely reflect the heart of Christ and bring lasting change, without unintentionally hurting the very people we aim to serve. Dr. Brian Fikkert joins us for that conversation.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 book, Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions.What Is Poverty—Really?Americans often define poverty materially—a lack of necessities, such as food, clean water, clothing, or shelter. As a result, short-term mission trips often center around distributing goods or completing construction projects. But when you ask materially poor individuals around the world what poverty means to them, they describe feelings of shame, helplessness, and a lack of dignity.This reveals a disconnect: while we view poverty as a lack of material possessions, those experiencing it often define it in relational, psychological, and spiritual terms. True poverty is brokenness in relationship—with God, self, others, and creation. That insight should transform how we approach short-term missions.Even the most well-intentioned trips can do harm. Why? Because those going on these trips may carry pride, believing they have the answers or that their culture holds superiority. In contrast, those in materially poor communities often struggle with inferiority. That combination can worsen the very sense of worthlessness we hope to alleviate.Rather than reinforcing this brokenness, we should pursue humility and listen more than we speak. The goal should not be to "fix" but to restore—to foster healthy relationships that reflect the image of God in all people.Presence Over ProjectsShort-term trips shouldn't be about what we accomplish but about who we become in relationship.If poverty is rooted in broken relationships, then the solution is to restore people to right relationships. And that doesn't come through handing out supplies or completing a checklist—it comes through deep, lasting community.That's why the local church is God's primary instrument of restoration. Mission teams should support these churches in a “backstage” role—serving quietly, praying faithfully, and encouraging leaders who are already embedded in the community. Sometimes the best thing you can do is babysit the pastor's children so he and his wife can enjoy a night out. That kind of support strengthens the long-term work far more than any single project ever could.The Sending Church's Role in Long-Term SuccessMany short-term trips blur the line between gospel and Western culture. But the gospel transcends culture—and so should we.Colossians 1 reminds us that Christ is the Creator and Sustainer of all things. That means He is already at work in every community, regardless of how impoverished it may seem. When mission teams enter a new culture, they should approach it reverently, as if stepping onto holy ground. There is beauty in every culture, and highlighting it can be healing. Simply asking, “What's good here?” affirms the image of God in others and begins the work of restoration.How can the sending church help ensure long-term success in missions?It's not about executing a flawless trip. It's about fostering enduring partnerships with local ministries. That includes showing up year after year, offering consistent prayer and support, and being safe spaces where local leaders can be authentic. Success is not measured by how much we build but by how deeply we walk with others through life.Fundraising as a Form of DiscipleshipShort-term mission fundraising can also be reframed. Young people often feel pressure to produce tangible results in exchange for financial support. But if the goal is to learn and grow, that's a worthy investment.Go as a learner and communicate that clearly to your supporters. When trips are part of a larger discipleship journey, they become valuable not only for those being served but also for the transformation of those who participate.Still, we must be wise stewards of God's resources. Many trips could be more effective if better embedded in a long-term process of learning and partnership.Short-term missions, when done right, can become powerful instruments of healing and restoration. But they must begin with a correct understanding of poverty and a humble willingness to be shaped by the journey.For churches preparing for trips this summer, Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions is more than a resource—it's a reorientation of purpose.To explore Dr. Fikkert's work or find resources and group studies designed for churches, visit Chalmers.org.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I just bought a new SUV and was offered bi-weekly payments. Would it be advantageous to opt for this option over monthly payments to minimize interest?My mother passed away in October of last year, and my sister and I are going to sell her house probably next month. My question is, in Texas, there's no inheritance tax. But is there an inheritance tax federally?We have some friends who asked us to give them a letter of giftedness to help them buy a home. They're asking for $17,000, for which they have $17,000 in cash that they will exchange for our check immediately. We don't understand why they can't just use their own cash, and we're not sure if helping them would cause difficulties for us or them.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly MagazineThe Chalmers CenterHelping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions by Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett with Katie CasselberryWhen Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor... and Yourself by Steve Corbett and Brian FikkertWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)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 most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

307: How to Overcome 5 Nonprofit Communication Challenges (David Chatham)SUMMARYThis episode is brought to you by our friends at Armstrong McGuire & Associates. Check them out for your next career opportunity OR for help finding an interim executive or your next leader.Are you pouring your heart into your nonprofit's mission, yet struggling to get donors, partners, and the community to truly understand and support your work? In episode 307 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, communication expert David Chatham shares how organizations can transform their storytelling by focusing on the “Four C's” of effective communication: clear, concise, compelling, and consistent messaging. He breaks down the five biggest communication challenges nonprofits face—from weak foundational messaging to the lack of a strategic marketing plan—and offers practical, actionable solutions to overcome them. Learn how to refine your mission statement, engage key stakeholders, and make the most of limited marketing budgets. Plus, discover why investing in strong communications isn't just about visibility—it's about strengthening donor engagement and long-term sustainability. If your nonprofit struggles to communicate its impact effectively, this episode will help you sharpen your strategy and amplify your voice.ABOUT DAVIDDavid has more than 25 years of marketing communications experience, with the last 10 focused on serving nonprofits through his work as senior client success strategist at Angel Oak Creative. He's grateful for the opportunity to work with organizations who are working each day to make the world a better place. David lives in Raleigh, N.C. with his wife of 20+ years, Lisa, and his mighty 7lb Yorkie, Max.EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCESReady for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuireWhen Helping Hurts by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert.Have you gotten Patton's book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on AudibleDon't miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership

There is a controversial book When Helping Hurts: Alleviating Poverty Without Hurting the Poor... and Yourself. Written by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert, it argues that providing relief and rehabilitation for others can create an unhealthy dependency. I (Seth, here) think these claims are overblown. However, helping can sometimes do more harm than good; I agree with that premise. Jonathan and Seth discuss that. What happens when someone accuses us of hurting when we think we're helping? How do we feel? What do we do next? Who do we listen to? And, if our gifts are "for the common good" (1 Cor. 12:7), how do we ensure they're not self-serving? Thanks for listening! We hope you're settling into 2025 and your resolutions are going strong. If someone told you they thought you were hurting when you thought you were helping, we'd love to hear about it at: noexpertsallowed@gmail.com.

ROOT TO FLOURISH #15 Authentic Fasting with Rev. Laura Wiens | FASTING 03 Isaiah 58:1-11 What does it mean to fast in a way that truly honors God? This Sunday, we'll explore how authentic fasting includes fighting injustice, helping those in need, and living out God's love daily. Don't miss this opportunity to dive deeper into how true fasting can transform lives and lead to flourishing! --- For reflection & discussion: Isaiah 58 describes the kind of fasting God desires. What stands out to you from this passage? Does this text challenge your current understanding of fasting?  How have practices like prayer, worship, Sabbath keeping or fasting affected your relationship with God? How can these practices help you grow in authenticity? How do you see God calling you to "loose the chains of injustice" or "share your food with the hungry"? What are practical steps you can take to live this out?  Reflect on Dorothy Day's quote about giving up unnecessary things so that we can afford to help others. Is God inviting you to make some changes in your lifestyle? How can we ensure that our efforts to serve others come from a place of humility rather than superiority?  Have you ever noticed a type of ‘helping' that may actually hurt people?   In what ways can your home church or church community support one another in living out true fasting and caring for those in need? Isaiah 58 describes flourishing in the lives of people who live an authentic lifestyle as God's children.  Have you experienced any of this flourishing in your own life as you care for others in need? Suggested Resources: When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor..  and Yourself  by  Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert.   The Transforming Friendship: A Guide to Prayer written by James Houston

The common adage "when you know better, you do better" makes sense. It also indicates that there is a need to transform what it is that we've been doing. When nonprofits around the world, including those working in Christian development and justice, recognize the need for organizational shifts, they may undertake the years-long process of change management. Perhaps your organization has gone through this (or perhaps it needs to!) To help us understand what change management looks like and what it says for organizations pursuing transformational development models, we have Dr. Casey Duthiers joining the show. Casey is the Director of Training and Development at Resilient Communities Center where their team supports practitioners around the world to improve their practice and increase their impact through intentional, Christ-centered professional development for development practitioners. She talks with Brandon Stiver about change management, short term missions and what it looks like to follow Jesus to the margins. Glad to have you join! Podcast Sponsor The Resilient Communities Center helps you become all God intended for you to be through training and coaching within a community. Check Out All The Offerings from the Resilient Communities Center Resources and Links from the show Integral Mission and Decolonizing Theology with Dr. Ruth Padilla DeBorst When Collaboration Helps Families with Dr. Brian Fikkert and Gabriel Walder Free Resources from Resilient Communities Center Conversation Notes The persistence of intractable poverty and examining the roots of it all Valuing Catholic social teaching as a theological basis for the work that we do Following Jesus to the margins of society and serving there What does it look like to change from a simple charity model to an organization that is anchored in a transformational development approach The key drivers that lead to organizations wanting to change The constraints of a shrinking donor base for nonprofits and how that can actually drive us towards better work Centering short term missions within long term relationships The need for continuing education for community development practitioners Relationships are key in every way when it comes to justice work   Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License  

What are you doing with God's whispers? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Bob discuss: Growing up in the family business from greenhouses to fragrance.Willing to try, willing to fail. Integrating business, family, and faith. Building your business with a pastor's heart.   Key Takeaways: Growth never occurs in a straight line. It is easy to write a check. It is harder to be deeply engaged and enter into the story of another. God has called us to be salt and light - in our businesses, we can create opportunities for our employees, supplies, and customers to taste and see the goodness of God. God is guiding our steps even when we can't see where he is leading us. The greatest thing you'll ever steward is God's whispers.   "As someone is kind of struggling through, ‘how do I shape culture' and wanting to do it in a very gospel-centered way, I'd lean into those three principles: How do I intentionally foster a sense of dependence? How do I practice gleaning in a modern sense in my business? How do I listen and what do I do with those whispers?" —  Bob Caldwell Jr. Episode References: Practicing the King's Economy: Honoring Jesus in How We Work, Earn, Spend, Save, and Give by Michael Rhodes, Robby Holt, and Brian Fikkert: https://www.amazon.com/Practicing-Kings-Economy-Honoring-Jesus/dp/0801075742Strong and Weak: Embracing a Life of Love, Risk and True Flourishing by Andy Crouch: https://www.amazon.com/Strong-Weak-Embracing-Life-Flourishing/dp/0830844430 About Bob Caldwell Jr.: Bob Caldwell, Jr. is President of Grace Management Group, a family owned business founded in 1975.  Grace Management Group operates a portfolio of brands and vertically integrated businesses within the fragrance and home décor industries, including Greenleaf, Votivo, Bridgewater Candle Company, The WillowBrook Company, BMC Manufacturing, Notes Candles, Aroma Creations, and Audrey's.  The company operates in Spartanburg, South Carolina; Lebanon, Pennsylvania; and an Asia sourcing office in mainland China.  Bob is a graduate of Wheaton College.  He currently serves on the boards of the Greenleaf Foundation and Grace Cares Foundation.  He is actively involved in international orphan care, adoption, and foster care efforts; anti-human trafficking efforts; and fostering a redemptive entrepreneurial perspective.Bob and his wife, Sarah, have six children, and one grandchild.  They live in Spartanburg, South Carolina.  Connect with Bob Caldwell Jr.:Website: https://www.gracemg.com/Website: https://votivo.com/Website: https://bridgewatercandles.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-caldwell-jr-42b99157   Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

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 most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

God is extraordinarily generous, and our churches should be, too. However, helping low-income people often requires going beyond meeting their material needs. On today's Faith & Finance Live, Dr. Brian Fikkert joins host Rob West to talk about how your church can help the poor in ways that lead to lasting change. Then Rob will answer some calls and financial questions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we sit down with Peter Greer, President and CEO of HOPE International, to unpack the revolutionary insights from his new book, "Lead with Prayer."

During the month of August we will be re-airing some of the best previous episodes of More to the Story. Today we have Dr. Bran Fikkert's episode (No. 72). Brian is the co-author of “When Helping Hurts” and Founder/President of the Chalmers Center. We hope you enjoy this interview. Youtube - https://youtu.be/QPm4E2J1G30Audio - https://andymilleriii.com/media/podcastApple -  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-to-the-story-with-dr-andy-miller/id1569988895?uo=4Link to "Becoming Whole" -https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Whole-Opposite-Poverty-American-ebook/dp/B07G2WLLJYIf you are interested in learning more about my two video-accompanied courses, Contender: Going Deeper in the Book of Jude andHeaven and Other Destinations: A Biblical Journey Beyond this World , visit courses.andymilleriii.comAnd don't forget about my book that came out last summer, Contender, which is available on Amazon! Five Steps to Deeper Teaching and Preaching - Recently, I updated this PDF document and added a 45-minute teaching video with slides, explaining this tool. It's like a mini-course. If you sign up for my list, I will send this free resource to you. Sign up here - www.AndyMillerIII.com or Five Steps to Deeper Teaching and Preaching. Today's episode is brought to you by Wesley Biblical Seminary. Interested in going deeper in your faith? Check out our certificate programs, B.A., M.A.s, M.Div., and D.Min degrees. You will study with world-class faculty and the most racially diverse student body in the country. www.wbs.eduThanks too to Phil Laeger for my podcast music. You can find out about Phil's music at https://www.laeger.net

Ever wondered if your donations are actually making a difference? We've got news for you: Your next charitable gift could be 100 times more effective than your last. No, that's not a typo. 100 times. In this episode, we're peeling back the curtain on the world of effective giving. We're challenging common assumptions, diving into cutting-edge research, and handing you the keys to becoming a giving superhero.   Here's what you're going to discover: The shocking truth about charity effectiveness (and why some of your donations might be going to waste) Our fail-proof framework for choosing where to give (hint: it involves both your head and your heart) The "Good Soil" principle that could multiply your impact exponentially Why some billionaires say giving money away is harder than earning it (and what you can learn from them) The hidden dangers of generosity (and how to avoid them) Whether you're dropping a few bucks in the collection plate or planning to give away millions, this episode is your roadmap to maximizing every dollar you donate.  

What if the help that you are giving to people in the community or on a mission trip actually do the exact opposite of what you want? In other words, what if your helping hurts? Today's guest is Dr. Brian Fikkert. Dr. Fikkert is Professor of Economics and Community Development and the Founder of the Chalmers Center for Economic Development at Covenant College. He is coauthor of the best-selling book When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor…and Yourself as well as Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions, Helping Without Hurting in Church Benevolence, and From Dependence to Dignity: How to Alleviate Poverty Through Church-Centered Microfinance. Dr. Fikkert earned a Ph.D. in economics from Yale University, specializing in international economics and economic development. He is the author of numerous articles in both academic and popular journals. Prior to coming to Covenant College, he was a professor at the University of Maryland—College Park and a research fellow at the Center for Institutional Reform and the Informal Sector.Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!

When someone asks for help, many of us jump into “fix-it mode” to solve the problem. While this may seem like a necessary response, it can also harm both the help-giver and receiver. Join Micah and Christa as we discuss how to identify and fight fix-it mode! You also won't want to miss an extended interview with one of our Life Center friends.=============================SHOW NOTES=============================

The dictionary defines poverty as having little or no money or possessions…and no means of getting them. That definition of poverty is undoubtedly true, as far as it goes, but is there more to poverty than a lack of resources? Brian Fikkert certainly thinks so and joins us today to discuss it. 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, “When Helping Hurts: How To Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting The Poor…And Yourself”. In his book, Brian describes how the Allied powers established the World Bank to rebuild a shattered Europe after World War II. How can that lesson inform us about treating poverty today?While pumping money into Europe was successful, pumping money into developing regions of Africa, Asia, and Latin America afterward did not have as good results. This shows that while surface issues like lack of infrastructure may look the same, the underlying conditions are often very different, and we need to consider those underlying conditions when addressing poverty.The World Bank then surveyed impoverished people, and the results were surprising.What did the results reveal? They were shocked to find that the answers people gave were things like "I feel less than human, I feel shame, I lacked dignity, I don't feel like I'm part of the team, I feel like I'm ignored by society, I feel like I have no voice no agency." This showed the World Bank that impoverished people experience poverty in more social, psychological, and even spiritual ways related to their sense of self and place in the world, rather than just in material terms of lacking resources.Why are definitions so important?They are crucial because if you misdiagnose what's wrong with someone, you can give them the wrong treatment and make them worse instead of better. If you go to the doctor and they misdiagnose the problem, they may prescribe something that doesn't address the underlying cause and could worsen the condition. If we define poverty incorrectly when trying to help people, we may treat symptoms rather than causes, making the situation worse. Defining poverty accurately is crucial for understanding and effectively addressing the root issues.How can Christians do a better job of caring for the poor rather than simply sending money or giving material things? By taking a relational approach, you can help solve problems that can't be solved with just money. Christians must walk with people in poverty in highly relational ways that help them rediscover their dignity, sense of self, and relationships with others and God. This involves walking with them over time, not just quick fixes. We can also support organizations that work effectively with the poor and seek human flourishing by promoting the common good. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I own real estate. Should I pay my tithes out of the gross income I receive, or should I pay them after all the bills have been paid? I've been wrestling with this question for a while. I have some answers, but I just wanted to touch base and get some assistance.Resources Mentioned:When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor . . . and Yourself by Brian Fikkert and Steve CorbettHelping Without Hurting in Church Benevolence: A Practical Guide to Walking with Low-Income People by Brian Fikkert and Steve CorbettThe Chalmers CenterRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

The dictionary defines poverty as having little or no money or possessions and no means of getting them. And that may be accurate, but is there more to poverty than a lack of resources? On today's Faith & Finance Live, Rob West will welcome Brian Fikkert to discuss the true definition of poverty and how we can effectively help care for the poor. Then Rob will answer your calls about finances. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're releasing our podcast collaboration with our friends at Theology in the Raw. Brandon had a chance to sit down with Preston Sprinkle and dive into all things global orphan care and discuss the realities of that children in orphanages face worldwide. Our conversation weaves between a theology of calling and mission and how American Christians intersect with orphans in the Global South. We discuss the reality of life within orphanages, why kids end up there and what risk factors and vulnerabilities arise when kids are raised in that environment. This is a good Ethical Orphan Care 101 type episode and we're grateful for the chance to collaborate with Theology in the Raw to raise awareness and education. For additional follow-up check out Brandon's four part orphan care blog series on Theology in the Raw. Here's the link. Resources and Links from the show When Helping Hurts by Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett In Pursuit of Orphan Excellence by Phil Darke and Keith McFarland Check out our friends at Cherish Uganda Get help to transform your orphanage with Canopy International

Michael is the lecturer in Old Testament at Carey Baptist College and recently released a new book: Just Discipleship: Biblical Justice in an Unjust World ( https://www.ivpress.com/just-discipleship ). Michael is also the author of Formative Feasting, Practicing the King's Economy (with Brian Fikkert and Robby Holt) along with numerous articles in popular outlets such as Christianity Today and The Biblical Mind. Rhodes has spent more than fourteen years involved in community development and urban ministry work, and is an ordained pastor in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. Buckle up- This episode is powerful.

Join Host Chaz Wolfe as he interviews Jeff Rutt, a dairy farmer turned home builder who constructs 500 homes a year operating in South Central Pennsylvania, Northern Maryland, and Charlotte, North Carolina. Jeff also started a Christian-centered microfinance organization 'Hope International.' Listen as they delve into business strategies, processing, historical economic downturns, lessons learned, and Jeff's philanthropic efforts. Also, hear how Jeff balances humble confidence with conscious preparation for potential business downturns. Stay tuned to the end where Jeff talks about Hope International and how YOU can get involved.00:00 Introduction00:28 Jeff's Business Background and Journey01:12 The Motivation Behind Jeff's Success02:06 The Importance of Impact and Serving Others02:58 The Dangers of Toxic Charity05:34 The Importance of Regular Accountability and Goal Setting13:50 The Impact of Regular Meetings and Accountability20:31 Navigating Business Challenges and Downturns26:01 The Uncertainty of Future Projections26:19 Strategies for Business Survival and Growth28:31 The Importance of Being Prepared for Economic Downturns31:46 Reflecting on Past Business Decisions32:22 Learning from Past Mistakes and Failures34:55 The Importance of Humility in Success37:13 The Role of Identity in Business Success38:43 The Power of Giving and Legacy43:36 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Future Goals Books and Resources Recommended (Affiliate Links Are Used):Alan Barnhart's Story:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXtlfTpERzIToxic Charity by Robert Lupton:https://www.amazon.com/dp/0062076213?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzchazwolf-20&creativeASIN=0062076213&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.300QACPW0EMZ5&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfgatheringthekings_1C46721HEAM65EC1ENWD_asinGood To Great by Jim Collins:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0058DRUV6?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzchazwolf-20&creativeASIN=B0058DRUV6&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.300QACPW0EMZ5&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfgatheringthekings_1C46721HEAM65EC1ENWD_asinWhen Helping Hurts by Brian Fikkert:https://www.amazon.com/dp/0802409989?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzchazwolf-20&creativeASIN=0802409989&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.300QACPW0EMZ5&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfgatheringthekings_1C46721HEAM65EC1ENWD_asinThe Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni:https://www.amazon.com/dp/1119209595?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzchazwolf-20&creativeASIN=1119209595&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.300QACPW0EMZ5&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_d_asinEgo Is The Enemy by Ryan Holiday:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015NTIXWE?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzchazwolf-20&creativeASIN=B015NTIXWE&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.300QACPW0EMZ5&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfgatheringthekings_1C46721HEAM65EC1ENWD_asinGathering The Kings Full Library of recommendations: https://gatheringthekings.captivate.fm/gtklibrary-amazonLet's Connect!Jeff Rutt:Jeff@keystonecustomehom.comjeff@hopeinternational.org.hopeinternational.org/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrutt1/https://www.keystonecustomhome.com/about-us/https://www.facebook.com/keystonecustomhomes/https://www.youtube.com/user/KeystoneCustomHomeshttps://www.instagram.com/kchhomes/Chaz Wolfe (Host): Linktree: https://linktr.ee/chazwolfeWebsite: www.gatheringthekings.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/chazwolfe/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gatheringthekingsInstagram:...

Friends, we have out-kicked our coverage once again! Dr. Brian Fikkert of When Helping Hurts fame joins us today on the Broken Banquet Podcast, and we are digging into his newest book, Becoming Whole: Why the Opposite of Poverty Isn't the American Dream.Dr. Brian Fikkert, founder and president of The Chalmers Center, is also Professor of Economics and Community Development and the Founder and President of the Chalmers Center for Economic Development at Covenant College. He is coauthor of the best-selling book When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor…and Yourself, as well as Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions, Helping Without Hurting in Church Benevolence, and From Dependence to Dignity: How to Alleviate Poverty Through Church-Centered Microfinance.Dr. Fikkert earned a Ph.D. in economics from Yale University, specializing in international economics and economic development. He is the author of numerous articles in both academic and popular journals. Prior to coming to Covenant College, he was a professor at the University of Maryland — College Park and a research fellow at the Center for Institutional Reform and the Informal Sector.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com

On this episode of “Cultivating Second Chair Leaders,” we look at the practice of  Identify Common Vision: Facilitate groups as they discover their common mission and vision. Our guest, Krista Young (@klyoung29), shares how regardless of cultural context, relationships and trust are the key elements to creating partnerships that move forward with a common vision. Resources mentioned in today's episode: “Life Together, The Classic Exploration of Christian Community” by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, 1954. “Kindling the Heart of the Christ-like Servant Leader” by Susan Steege, 2016.“When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor . . . and Yourself” by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert, 2014“Toxic Charity, How Churches and Charities Hurt Those They Help, And How to Reverse It”  by Robert D. Lupton, 2012Go to www.kindleservantleaders.org  and to learn more about the organization and support our work!Share this episode with a friend and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Connect with us! Instagram: @emilyphoenix or @kindle_social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KINDLEServantLeaders If you have a question to ask or story to share about one of this season's topics, we would love to hear from you. Send an email to emily@kindleservantsleaders.org and we will share it along the way! Download episode discussion guides at: https://www.kindleservantleaders.org/podcast/

In this episode, Ed Gillentine talks with Bob Collins form TrustBridge Global Foundation. Bob explains how TrustBridge helps break down barriers to global giving. He also discusses four major vehicles used to steward significant resources for charitable giving: Donor-Advised Funds, Private Foundations, Supporting Organizations, and Charitable Trusts.Show LinksEd Gillentine:EdGillentine.comInstagram: @journey.to.impactTrustBridge Global Foundation:www.trustbridgeglobal.comLinkedInBooks:Journey To Impact by Ed GillentineFortune's Children by Arthur T. VanderbiltWhen Helping Hurts by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert

In this episode, Brian Fikkert and Gabriel Walder join the show to tackle critical topics such as helping the church rediscover its identity, divisions within the American church regarding poverty, and the intricate relationship between economic empowerment and family well-being. Additionally, they delve into cross-cultural missions, the significance of community and relationships, and discuss ACE's collaboration with Chalmers Center. Tune in for insightful perspectives on poverty alleviation and community building. Podcast Sponsor Replanted Conference The Replanted Conference provides a time away for caregivers to be refreshed, equipped, and inspired! Join us October 12-14, 2023 in Chicago or at a simulcast location near you. Registration now open! Use code '1MH10' to get your Think Orphan discount! Resources and Links from the show When Helping Hurts Vulnerable Children How Soccer Explains Leadership with Graham Daniels Becoming Whole by Brian Fikkert and Kelly Kapic Life We're Looking For: Reclaiming Relationship in a Technological World by Andy Crouch Chalmers Center Alliance for Children Everywhere Conversation Notes What does human flourishing look like? (7:30) Helping the church to rediscover who we are (9:00) Supporting organizations to transition to family care (16:00) The division of the American church on why people are poor (22:00) The problems with economic empowerment (24:00) The Graduation Approach of economic empowerment (34:00) Family as the solution and greatest community asset (37:00) Approaching families with humility (41:00) Working cross-culturally in missions (43:00) The imperative of community and relationship (48:00) ACE's collaboration with Chalmers Center (1:04)

Brian joins the podcast, along with my wife Sam, to discuss Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert's book When Helping Hurts. We talk about how to determine the kind of help a person really needs, community development in other social contexts, and how to find a trustworthy partner in a third-world country.

Most of us have heard examples of when good intentions and generosity for the poor inadvertently led to more harm than good. But what's the solution to this problem? How can you and I help those in need without causing them harm? This week's guest, Dr. Brian Fikkert, co-author of the well-known book, When Helping Hurts and Founder/President of the Chalmers Center, joins us to respond to this vital question by introducing us to his newest book, Becoming Whole: Why the Opposite of Poverty isn't the American Dream.Episode Landing PageDisciple Nations Alliance Website

Christians are called to help the poor and studies consistently show that we're generous people, compared to the whole. But does that generosity always mean we're helping?  We'll talk with Brian Fikkert about that on this Faith and Finance. Brian Fikkert is Professor of Economics and Community Development and the Founder and President of the Chalmers Center for Economic Development at Covenant College.He's also coauthor of the best-selling book When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the PoorIt's obvious that money alone doesn't solve the problem of poverty. It's more complex than that. We need to change our thinking about poverty.A NEW PARADIGMMany of us think of the human being as fundamentally a physical creature. And so we think if we pour in more resources, the person will be better off, and then many of us as Christians think of a person as a kind of a body that contains a soul. But what the Bible actually teaches is that the human being is a highly integrated Body, Soul relational creature. We are hard-wired for relationships with God, with ourselves, with others, and with the rest of creation. Once we think of people in that way, we realize that we're going to have to work with people in highly relational ways, because that's how they're wired.DIFFERENT KINDS OF POVERTYOne chapter in Brian's book says that not all poverty is created equal. There are actually different kinds of poverty. On today's program, he explains the different types of poverty and the importance of distinguishing between situations where relief is appropriate, and when it's more appropriate to help people use their own God-given talents and steward their own gifts and resources. OVERSEAS GIFTSBrian also discusses the best ways to help people through missions and other organizations that reach people far from home with the Gospel and material assistance. He notes that the best form of assistance is usually a form that helps people become more self-sufficient, if you will (though we are all dependent on God). Things like goats and chickens that can help people to gather their own food and/or earn income can be wonderful ways to help. The Chalmer's Center's website is loaded with resources to help you steward your financial resources both at home and abroad. Learn more at chalmers.org.On this program, Rob also answers listener questions: How do you determine if a refund offered by the IRS for overpayment is legitimate and not a scam?What's the best way to address a large IRS debt? Should you set up a payment arrangement with the IRS or try to get a loan elsewhere to pay off the tax debt? How do you figure out if you should keep a house and rent it out or just sell it outright? Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Also, visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. 

In this episode of Glo, Blair Linne, Aixa de López, Sharon Dickens, and Soojin Park discuss how believers and church leaders can provide mercy ministry that is effective, biblical, loving, and sustainable. Drawing from the book, When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor . . . and Yourself, the hosts define "poverty" and talk about how to identify and prevent early mistakes in mercy ministry. You'll learn the importance of discipleship in caring for the poor, how to open the door to evangelistic conversations, caring for spiritual needs, and practical steps you can take to start serving the poor and marginalized in your local context.Episode time stamps:When helping hurts (0:00)Redefining how to serve the poor (3:20)Poverty in Guatemala (5:29)Mercy ministry: serve well and thoughtfully (8:09)Relative vs. absolute poverty (8:54)Restoring relationships (10:31)How to discern where to give your gifts and resources (12:32)Knowing the needs in your community (16:57)The importance of discipleship (18:22)Identifying early mistakes in mercy ministry (20:31)What does it look like to trade rather than give? (22:34)Relational poverty in the Korean American community (25:39)The story of the shoe maker (29:06)Recommended resources:When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor . . . and Yourself by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert"Why It's Better to Trade Than to Give" by Justin Lonas"How Can We Include the Poor in the Conversation?" with Brian Fikkert and Robby Holt from TGC Q&A's Faith & Work series 

Christians are called to help the poor and studies consistently show that we’re generous people, compared to the whole. But does that generosity always mean we’re helping? On today's Faith & Finance Live, host Rob West will talk with Brian Fikkert about when helping hurts. Then Rob will answer your questions on different financial topics. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Season 3 of Down Under Theology, a podcast equipping and encouraging Australian Christians to get down and under the theology impacting the life and mission of the church.In Episode 11, we get down to the heart of the 8th Commandment not to steal. We marvel at the generosity of our Father, and how this should encourage the same overflowing generosity in the life of His people. We touch on the issue of tithing, and also think about ways we may be stealing without realising it. Thoughts, questions or feedback? Get in touch with us at downundertheology@gmail.com.---Episode Hosts:Allister Lum Mow (@allisterlm)Cameron Clausing (@cam_clausing)Murray SmithProducer:Nick RabeEpisode Sponsor:Christ College, Sydney---S3 Episode 11 - Show NotesRecommended Resources - The God Who Gives: How the Trinity Shapes the Christian Story by Kelly M. Kapic with Justin BorgerBecoming Whole: Why the Opposite of Poverty Isn't the American Dream by Brian Fikkert & Kelly M. KapicFree of Charge: Giving and Forgiving in a Culture Stripped of Grace by Miroslav Volf (Koorong link)Christ College, Sydney Preparing leaders for God's church and its gospel-centred mission in the world.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

The irony of this training is the fact that I am writing the script while flying on a private plane from a secluded island in the Bahamas after spending 3 days spearfishing, eating, and hanging out with friends and clients. That was a moment of privilege. Spending your days with continual electricity is a privilege.     If you are listening to this talk, you have privilege. Privilege is “a special right, advantage, or immunity granted or available only to a particular person or group”.  A more direct definition is to be “exempt from an obligation from which others are subject.”   How do you know if you are in a class of privilege?  Others shoulder a burden you don't have to shoulder.   It wastes our time to try and determine if we are privileged, and instead to ask “because we have privilege, what does that mean?”  In the barren desert of the middle east, a man hears a message.  “I will bless (privilege) you so that you can be a blessing (offer privilege to others).”   This training is about the so that.   When you have privilege that goal is not to consume the privilege you have, but instead to inventory the privilege, proximity yourself among those who do and don't have your privilege, and then offer privilege to others in a way that allows them to follow the same reinvestment strategies. The problem with privilege is that we tend to see it as terminal; either it stops with us (because we consume but don't re-invest, OR it stops with the direct person we share it with because they consume but don't re-invest). Brian Fikkert co-authored an aptly named and important book “When Helping Hurts” that opens our eyes to understand that when we have privilege, we want to share that privilege, and too often the privilege we share ends up doing more harm than if we would have just kept the privilege ourselves. It would help to redirect the privilege discussion back into the context of Executive Leadership and tie privilege back to our definition: proximity to motivate a team to pursue the named future you see. Let's look at consuming and deploying privilege through three lenses of our definition. First, privilege can bring proximity. There is a template for leveraging the privilege of money to influence friendships.  Of course, we are not condoning nor suggesting bribes or payoffs.  Instead, you can choose to deploy your money in places that provide you proximity for connection. We were at a resort with our family, clearly a place of privilege…it was a once in a lifetime type of trip.  This resort puts us in immediate proximity to people who had the same or more privilege than we had.   We get to talking with some of the other vacationers and over time get the direct email of a very well-known and influential music industry executive who has put some of the greatest acts in the world on the stage.  We sat and watched a World Cup match with he and his young son and developed a relationship.  The inanimate tool of our money provided us with “a special right…granted or available only to a particular person or group.”   It is good to consistently ask, “how can the privilege I have provide proximity to bring that privilege to others, or to provide new relationships that breed new privilege.” Secondly, privilege can breed motivation. When you have access to privilege you often have something someone else would like to have but is unable to attain. Think about the privilege of a well-known athlete who is willing to step down from his throne of notoriety and sincerely show up to read a book to a Kindergarten class, or visit patients at a hospital and offer encouragement. The athlete has the privilege of notoriety, influence, and voice…they offer that to those who do not and thus bring a unique motivation that might help that Kindergartner grow up to have a unique impact, or provide the motivation for the mental fight that a patient will need to conquer their disease. Privilege reinvested breeds new and novel privileges that can be perpetuated. Privilege consumed breeds bitterness, expectation, and myopic arrogance that pushes the privileged to think they are the ones responsible for their own privilege ignoring all of the investment of privilege that has been planted into their own lives.   This training exists in part because we don't want you to slowly become that. You are too generous, and you are too intentional for your life to slowly devolve into arrogance and self-importance. Thirdly, privilege helps to jump the various hurdles on the way to the named future that you see.   I enjoy Guy Raz' How I Built This Podcast…it is a fascinating look at the emotional inside of some of the world's most interesting businesses. Towards the end of each podcast, he asked a staple question, “Does your success have more to do with luck, or with skill?” I love the podcast, and I hate that question. Remember the old adage, “the harder I work, the luckier I get.”  When we have moments of momentum and success that we cannot explain we tend to call it luck.  Pausing to reflect we can actually align our “lucky moments” to moments of privilege; privilege that you had that connection, or were in that specific location.   There are things we coordinate or manipulate for our benefit, and there are things that “just happen”.  Pay close attention, ask yourself, “would this have happened if I did not have access to a certain privilege that others don't.” One day I might meet Carrie Underwood… it would feel like “luck”, but a short audit of my relationships and privileges reveals that I had the privilege of being a paying member of a mastermind group, that mastermind group offered me the privilege of meeting and getting to know a very talented guitarist and Dobro player, and that very talented guitarist had the privilege of being the Dobro player for Carrie Underwood. What looks like “luck” to most is actually privilege dressed in a lack of awareness and context.   History's wealthiest and wisest person whose privilege was well documented once declared, “all is vanity and chasing after wind.”   When we make privilege the end game, we become the walking dead. When we look at privilege as an investment to enjoy and reinvest… we make time for what matters most.   Finally, privilege can and will be a load to bear.  Share that load with people who have wisdom.  The word “team” has its roots in the concept of a team of pack horses…a unified group pulling heavy loads in a specific direction. Privilege requires building a team to help advise, direct, and hold account your privilege so that it remains a value to all, and not just you.   A business owner had accrued a significant sum of money in a profit account that he had setup to build up as his business grew. As we were reviewing progress I told him, “Congratulations on how you have grown that account.” He looked at me with a blank stare and responded, “just one more problem I've got to handle.” When you have resources, it is your responsibility to manage those resources.  Of course, most people are bent to desire more instead of less, and the more you have, the more you are required to distribute. The ultimate question you must answer is “what will you do with what you have” knowing that your response to that question will reveal the desire and state of your ultimate motivation. Be mindful, slow, and wise with the privilege that you have.

We live in a world where limits are seen as curses, but maybe good limits are God-given gifts. Only God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and everywhere. It's good news that I don't have to try to be any of these things because I simply can't. Today's Unhurried Living Podcast episode is an interview with Kelly Kapic, author of "You're Only Human: How Your Limits Reflect God's Design and Why That's Good News." I love how Kelly and I are able to talk about and share the intersection of his message on limitations the Unhurried Living message of unhurry. Kelly M. Kapic is professor of theological studies at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. He is the award-winning author or editor of more than 15 books, including Embodied Hope , The God Who Gives , and Becoming Whole with Brian Fikkert. Kapic is also part of a John Templeton Foundation grant studying “Christian Meaning-Making, Suffering, and the Flourishing Life.”

In this episode, you'll hear from Dr. Steve Winstead, the Lead Pastor at the International Evangelical Church in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He and Ed discuss some of the things you need to consider when doing work internationally.Show LinksEd Gillentine:EdGillentine.comInstagram: @journey.to.impactDr. Steve Winstead:www.iecinaddis.orgInstagram: @sswinsteadwww.winsteadfam.orgBooksJourney To Impact by Ed GillentineForeign fo Familiar by Sarah A. LanierWhen Helping Hurts by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert

Dr. Brian Fikkert and Lauren discuss what has changed in missional movements since publishing his monumental book, When Helping Hurts. The two have a riveting conversation about economic structures, how financial capital can work against mental health, and how the Western world can learn some of its best lessons from the Majority World. In this episode, you will be challenged to think about how globalizing capitalism can come at a cost to communal societies. ... EPISODE SHOW NOTES EPISODE TRANSCRITPION ... Links Kindred Exchange - Learn more and support ethical missions. Shop ABLE - Get 15% off your order with the code UPWARD15. Order Becoming Whole - Why the Opposite of Poverty Isn't the American Dream Order When Helping Hurts - How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor… and Yourself The Chalmers Center - Learn about the center and get connected ... Connect with Lauren Instagram / Leave a Review Connect with Brian Twitter / Linkedin

Welcome to episode 367 of The Outdoor Biz Podcast, brought to you this week by Thrive Market. Today I'm joined by Darrel Larson, International Director of Sawyer Products. Darrell is also the founder of Give Clean Water, a non-profit dedicated to providing clean drinking water around the world. Facebook Twitter Instagram The Outdoor Biz Podcast Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! Sign up for my Newsletter HERE.  I'd love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: email: rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com or leave me a message on Speakpipe! Brought to you by: Thrive Market Show Notes What was your first exposure to the outdoors? [00:00:40] When I was growing up as a kid, my dad loved fishing. And it turns out my dad when he got outta high school, he actually graduated from Oceanside High as well. So my dad gets outta high school and he takes a job as a Forest Service ranger up in Lassen Park. Oh, wow. And so my very first recollections when I was growing up as a kid were sitting around, my dad, would take pictures and turn 'em into slides and we had like a slide projector kinda a deal. And it's all these pictures of my dad up there fishing for like big brown trout and all the stuff that they were doing their off time. So, so from very early on I kind of got exposed to the outdoors and, beautiful places like Lassen National Park. How were you inspired to focus on clean water? [00:04:15] Before I was introduced to Sawyer filters, I got training in bio-sand filters, and that was just like, I don't know, it just resonated with me cuz I began to see what a big, giant problem it was around the world. And so that just kind of caught my attention. I was like, man, this is something we can solve in our lifetime. And so kind of got it, start there with that house building organization, and then from there, kind of moved on and, became acquainted with Sawyer filters and got involved with starting my own nonprofit that work in the country of Fiji. How did you connect with Sawyer? [00:05:10] So when I found Sawyer, we had just gotten a lot of our bio-sand filter molds, and I got training in it, got certified in it, and we were gonna bring these filters over to  Fiji. And a couple of weeks before, I was going on this trip, and one of my friends said, Hey, did you see these new filters? It just came out, this company called Sawyer, and this was in 2008. And, so I was like, oh, those look really interesting. So I called Sawyer and I asked them if they would send me a couple, cuz I want to test these out. Talk a little bit about Give Clean Water. You started that organization, right? [00:10:00]  Yeah, so I founded it in 2008. We were really looking at finding a country where could we go where there was a big water need. Of course, they were everywhere. A billion people need clean water. But I wanted to go somewhere where I had some boots-on-the-ground contacts. And a friend of mine grew up in Fiji and he's like, Hey man, you should come to Fiji and, and bring these filters over there. So I was like, okay. So we went over and checked it out. I was like dreaming big. these filters could change the world. What if you could change the world? What if you could change a country? Yeah. Fiji's not that big of a country. Less than 900,000 people live in the country, which is like two-thirds of the size of San Diego. So I'm thinking, man, if you could [00:11:20] hit every single village there, what would that look like to change the country and change their lives, et cetera? So that was our beginning. Sawyer [00:21:00] Our biggest category is gonna be our repellent. Our Permethrin is, [00:21:20] is the golden standard for spraying on your clothes and your gear. And then our Picaridin is big, that's our topical repellent. It's a derivative of, the pepper plant and, it offers the [00:22:00] same protection as Deet, but it's just not harsh. Our newest filter is the [00:25:30] tap filter. These things just pop right on the end of a common tap. You can, you can even put 'em on a hose bib outside or whatever, but they're just awesome for getting [00:26:20] rid of bacteria for emergencies and then around the world because most of the places where you have the luxury of tap water, you can't drink it.[00:26:30]. What other outdoor activities do you participate in? [00:28:10] I love hiking. I still love camping and like to play golf. I like to surf and, love biking. So pretty much any of [00:28:20] that stuff. And, then just as something that I just love to do in general, and I actually do it a lot on our trips, is I love photography. Do you have any [00:30:50] suggestions or advice for folks wanting to get into the outdoor biz or grow their career if they're already in the industry? I just find that authenticity and generosity are things that [00:31:50] I love and it's what I really love about Sawyer. And so, I mean, if somebody was looking to get in the business in that kind of way, I don't [00:32:00] know, you want to go in and have a great product for one, but, but those other things I think are kinda the X factors. Do you have any daily routines [00:33:40] you use to keep your sanity, meditate, exercise? Yeah, I, have quiet time every morning. I'm definitely, definitely a person of faith and, so I, every morning that's kind of [00:33:50] sacred time for me. I like to wake up early, spend, 30 minutes or so just in kind of a quiet time reading and, doing those kinds of disciplines, and then, I [00:34:00] love to read all kinds of stuff. but I love fitness. I think for me, that that's like [00:34:10] eating good, and, and having a, a well-balanced diet and, making that kind of a lifestyle. Do you have any favorite books or books [00:36:20] you give as gifts? When Helping Hurts Seve Corbett, Brian Fikkert, et al. Figuring Foreigners Out, A Practical Guide Craig Storti What's your, favorite piece of outdoor gear under a hundred dollars? Oh man. it's gonna sound like a total sales pitch or whatever. . I would've said this even before I was working at Sawyer. So, my best thing under a hundred bucks, my first go-to, I mean, you could get [00:41:30] a squeeze filter, a bottle of Permethrin, a bottle of Picaridin, and Sunscreen for all under a hundred bucks. Follow up with Darrel and Sawyer Sawyer Instagram Darrel Instagram Darrel Linkedin  

Brain Fikkert is an economics professor and author who wants to see a change in poverty in the world. He not only redefines poverty as a fundamentally relational problem, but he presents a whole new method of how followers of Jesus can serve the poor. To learn more about the podcast or access the show notes, visit www.redletterpodcast.com. Today's episode is brought to you by Red Letter Living. On February 13th, at Noon-1PM Central, I'll be hosting my friend Rich Birch in a FREE one-hour webinar called “Helping Churches Build Their Invite Culture.” Every pastor I know wants their church to grow. But how? Rich Birch, founder of unSeminary, says “the difference between stagnant and growing churches is that growing churches train, equip, and motivate their people to invite their friends. It really is that simple.”In this one-hour FREE webinar, we are going to help your church increase its invite culture. Rich will teach us five areas that churches of all sizes can immediately focus on for church growth. You'll not only learn the five areas, but you'll discover some real simple tools and practices that you can put into place right away. And, as a bonus, I'll ask Rich what are some best practices that growing churches are implementing to boost excitement for their Easter services this year.I'm hosting this webinar to help pastors and church leaders. So, genuinely, I'd love to know what questions you have regarding this topic. Please feel free to email hello@redletterchallenge.com. Register today for this FREE webinar and please invite other pastors and church leaders to join us in this important discussion.Resources mentioned in the episode: The Chalmers Center When Helping Hurts by Brian FikkertBecoming Whole by Brian FikkertInnovate Initiative from The Chalmers CenterKey insights from the episode: Good intentions are not enough. - Brian FikkertIncorrect helping can create an even bigger divide. - Zach ZehnderOne of the primary features of poverty is a sense of shame, a sense of inadequacy. - Brian FikkertEffective ministry to the poor is highly relational and takes a long time! - Brian FikkertPoverty is fundamentally relational in problem and takes relational solutions to get fixed. - Brian FikkertReal love means restoring people to humanness. - Brian FikkertThe number one problem with churches in America is that they provide relief when what people really need is development. - Brian FikkertOur souls are screaming out, “I'm made for a certain kind of habitat, and the habitat I'm in isn't the right one.” - Brian FikkertThere is a superficial kind of love, peace, and joy. Why do we crush happiness? Just because there is a superficial kind doesn't mean there isn't genuine, God-given happiness. - Zach ZehnderJesus was always trying to restore people to humanness. - Brian FikkertWhen it comes to helping the poor, our message isn't do less. It's do more, but let's do it differently. - Brian FikkertBrian Fikkert's Challenge: Answer this question: Why did Jesus come to earth?Are you following Jesus? Many want to be greater followers of Jesus but don't know how. So we extensively studied everything Jesus commanded of us and located five key targets to which Jesus invited His followers. The five targets are Being, Forgiving, Serving, Giving, and Going.In partnership with LifeWay Research, we created a Red Letter Challenge Assessment that will measure you according to these five targets. And the best news of all: it's free! You will get results back immediately and be presented with the following steps to help you become an even greater follower of Jesus.You can take the FREE Red Letter Challenge Assessment here. Some not-so-key insights: Brian Fikkert is 6'10”. Brian's primary spiritual gift is offensiveness. Bathroom stalls/fitting rooms are the worst for tall people. Zach and Brian share a love for Sheboygan Brat Days.A Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a digital media and commercial video production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network and learn more about our other services today on HurrdatMedia.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What is the goal of life and how can we achieve it?  This question is ingrained in every human heart.  Politicians and philosophers have tried to answer it, but their solutions fall far short. What does it take to truly flourish as a man or woman, including those trapped in poverty?  Chris Brooks will explore the physical and eternal answers with author and professor Dr. Brian Fikkert, coming up on Equipped!

What is the goal of life and how can we achieve it?  This question is ingrained in every human heart.  Politicians and philosophers have tried to answer it, but their solutions fall far short. What does it take to truly flourish as a man or woman, including those trapped in poverty?  Chris Brooks will explore the physical and eternal answers with author and professor Dr. Brian Fikkert, coming up on Equipped!

If you are giving money or material resources to the poor, you are helping them overcome their problems in life, right? Perhaps, but maybe not, inevitably. Donating money, clothes, food and other materials does help the poor and needy but have we ever paused and asked them how our help truly affects them? For all we know, our efforts to help may have unintentionally done more harm than good. Our guest today shows us a different perspective on helping the poor. Dr. Brian Fikkert of the Chalmers Center challenges us to veer away from considering the poor as problems to solve and projects to fix and instead see the dignity in everyone and understand people's highly relational nature with fully integrated body and soul all reconciling to God. He dares us to ask questions that will help us understand how to extend genuine help and compassion that creates a long-lasting impact. Start listening now and learn better ways to help the poor. Key Points From This Episode: The highlight of Brian's weekBrian's backstoryHow does Brian define poverty and what are the proper strategies to alleviate it?Why people who want to alleviate poverty should understand that people are highly relational beings and body-soul integrated. The four intertwined relationships in a person's life - God, self, others and creation.Brian's advice for church planters in low-income communities.What is God's framework for change that ministries and community development workers must adopt to attain genuine human flourishing?Brian answers the mentor-minute questions.Tweetables:“We tend to define poverty as a lack of material things so as a result, our solutions for the poor tend towards material things.”“The human being isn't just a body and we're not just a body that holds a soul. We're highly integrated body-soul relational things, and that really shapes every intervention we should use with the poor.”“The foundation for helping the poor might be a shared meal once a week. Building a community is central to poverty alleviation.”Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Send an email to Brian FikkertThe Chalmers CenterWhen Helping Hurts by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert Becoming Whole: Why the Opposite of Poverty Isn't the American Dream by Brian Fikkert and Kelly KapicWalking with the Poor: Principles and Practices of Transformational Development by Bryant MyersYou're Only Human by Kelly KapicBooks by Timothy KellerAbout Dr. Brian Fikkert Dr. Brian Fikkert is a professor of economics and the founder and president of the Chalmers Center at Covenant College. Dr. Fikkert earned a Ph.D. in economics from Yale University, specializing in international economics and economic development. He has been a consultant to the World Bank; he is the author of numerous articles in both academic and popular journals and co-author of five books. Prior to coming to Covenant College, he was a professor at the University of Maryland—College Park and a research fellow at the Center for Institutional Reform and the Informal Sector.

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. He is coauthor of the best-selling book When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor…and Yourself as well as Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions, Helping Without Hurting in Church Benevolence, and From Dependence to Dignity: How to Alleviate Poverty Through Church-Centered Microfinance. Dr. Fikkert earned a Ph.D. in economics from Yale University, specializing in international economics and economic development. In this conversation, Brian and I talk about his book When Helping Hurts, which is easily the top 5 most influential books I've ever read. We also talk the pros and cons of short term mission trips and how churches can best partner with poorer churches without doing unintentional harm. Check out Brian's organization www.chalmers.org If you would like to support Theology in the Raw, please visit patreon.com/theologyintheraw for more information! 

Today Ed talks with Joe Bridges, Founder of The Forsaken Children. They discuss the work that's being done in Ethiopia to help at-risk children living in poverty on the streets. Show LinksEd Gillentine:EdGillentine.comInstagram: @journey.to.impactThe Forsaken Children:theforsakenchildren.orgInstagram: @theforsakenchildrenmyminternational.orgBooksJourney To Impact by Ed GillentineThe Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark ComerWhen Helping Hurts by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert

Episode Summary. This episode seeks to examine what the church's commitment to the poor of our cities should look like. We then examine three serious flaws in the progressive view of social justice, an ideology which is captivating many young adults leading them to abandon Christianity. Finally, we examine how only the church can bring about the restoration require to solve the problems of our urban poor but raise the question, “Will middle class Christians care enough to do it?”   Questions for Guiding the Rising Generation to think about this material. What is the biblical case for Christians being very engaged with alleviating the poverty and other suffering in our cities?What would you say to a church leader who said Jesus' mission for us is to preach the gospel not care for the poor?What flaws of progressive ideology's approach to poverty most stood out to you?How would you make the case that the true causes of poverty—the breaking of harmony between us and ourselves, each other, God, and creation can best be achieved by the church? Recommended Resources When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor and Yourself by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert.Before Your Lose Your Faith, Edited by Ivan MesaFor the printed version of this message click here.For a summary of topics addressed by podcast series, click here.For FREE downloadable studies on men's issues click here.To make an online contribution to enable others to hear about the podcast: (Click link and scroll down to bottom left)

Scripture commands us not only to preach the gospel but to care for the poor and suffering. But affluent North Americans can sometimes do more harm than good. How can we help without hurting? Author and professor Brian Fikkert joins to discuss his landmark missions book When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor… and Yourself—and what the consequences of that book have been since its first publication 13 years ago. Dr. Brian Fikkert is a professor of economics and the founder and president of the Chalmers Center at Covenant College. Dr. Fikkert earned a Ph.D. in economics from Yale University, specializing in international economics and economic development. He is the author of numerous articles in both academic and popular journals and co-author of five books. Prior to coming to Covenant College, he was a professor at the University of Maryland College Park and a research fellow at the Center for Institutional Reform and the Informal Sector. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

Coming up this week, Brian Fikkert, coauthor of When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor . . . and Yourself, explains why good intentions aren't enough when it comes to serving the needy across the world. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

In today's podcast I interview Dr. Brian Fikkert, co-author of “When Helping Hurts” and Founder/President of the Chalmers Center. Link to "Becoming Whole" - https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Whole-Opposite-Poverty-American-ebook/dp/B07G2WLLJYYoutube - https://youtu.be/lpLwzCFtW18Audio - https://andymilleriii.com/media/podcastApple -  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-to-the-story-with-dr-andy-miller/id1569988895?uo=4 Contender: Going Deeper in the Book of Jude - This all-inclusive small group study on the book of Jude is out now. Check it out on the course page: http://courses.andymilleriii.com Five Steps to Deeper Teaching and Preaching - I'm excited to share some news with you.  Recently, I updated this PDF document and added a 45-minute teaching video with slides, explaining this tool. It's like a mini-course. If you sign up for my list, I will send this free resource to you. Sign up here - www.AndyMillerIII.com or Five Steps to Deeper Teaching and Preaching. Today's episode is brought to you by these two sponsors: Bill Roberts is a financial advisor, who has been serving the retirement planning and investment needs of individuals, families, non-profits, and churches for 25 years. He is a Certified Financial Planner and accredited investment fiduciary. Bill specializes in working with Salvation Army employees and officers by helping them realize their financial goals.  You can find out more about Bill's business at www.WilliamHRoberts.comANDWesley Biblical Seminary - Interested in going deeper in your faith? Check out our certificate programs, B.A., M.A.s, M.Div., and D.Min degrees. You will study with world-class faculty and the most racially diverse student body in the country. www.wbs.eduThanks too to Phil Laeger for the new podcast music. You can find out about Phil's music at https://www.laeger.net

BIG IDEA: Jesus sees and wants the sacrifice and devotion of our hearts.OUTLINE:1) What Jesus Sees2) What Jesus Delights In3) What Jesus DesiresRESOURCES: ESV Study Bible; Practicing the King's Economy: Honoring Jesus In How We Work, Earn, Spend, Save, & Give by Michael Rhodes, Robby Holt, and Brian Fikkert; Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament: Mark by Mark Strauss; Pillar New Testament Commentary: Mark by James Edwards; Let's Study Mark! by Sinclair Ferguson

Curt and Chris Chaffin set a financial finish line early in their marriage and have experienced many of the joys and challenges that come with it. Their story begins soon after Curts medical training during an extended missions trip abroad. After struggling significantly over whether to pursue full time missions, Curt and Chris ultimately found themselves led to remain in the states, using much of their income to fuel other's work abroad.  The Chaffins share a candid perspective on the freedom they've experienced through generosity, as well as the difficult decisions they've made along the way. Listen now to hear their take on topics like adjusting to a budget, staying on the same page, finding encouragement from others, sharing generosity with your kids, and the challenges of living differently than those around you. QUOTES TO REMEMBER “Yes, there are needs here in the U.S., but overseas there are tremendous needs.” “We were already used to the idea of arbitrarily limiting how much we spent.” “As we were given resources, we knew immediately that these probably should not be spent on us.” “God had been preparing our hearts all along.” “Why are we trying to figure out how much to give away when it should be how much should I keep?” LINKS FROM THE SHOW When Helping Hurts by Brian Fikkert (see our interview with Brian here) Steve Scalici (see our interview here) Neverthirst (see our interview with CEO Matt Letourneau here) Jay Dykstra (see our interview here) ROI Ministry (see our interview with Founder, Tim Barker here) The Finish Line Community Facebook Group The Finish Line Community LinkedIn Group WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! If you have a thought about something you heard, or a story to share, please reach out! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. You can also contact us directly from our contact page. If you want to engage with the Finish Line Community, check out our groups on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Isn't it Lovely? Season 6 continues exploring themes of healing and identity as Rachel and Tracy sit down with AsOne Ministries Founder and CEO Andrew DeVaney. Andrew shares the personal faith journey that ultimately led him to encounter the love of Jesus in a profound and transformational way, while also allowing him to deconstruct elements of faith in an attempt to better understand where God is in the midst of global challenges, such as genocide, hunger, and poverty. Andrew's immersive experiences in other cultures and the resulting relationships created the opportunity to develop a model to help combat global issues while empowering cultures and supporting dignity, creativity, and agency. Andrew encourages a consideration that the beauty and image of God are present in all cultures, resisting the notion of superior nations or ways of life. He invites listeners to step into their own unique purposes as beautiful creations with specific work to do by pursuing healing and creating the space to slow down and ask the questions, “Who are we becoming?” versus “What do we do?”. Rachel realizes that Andrew's love of sandwiches, coffee, and books makes him the perfect third host of the podcast and invites him to join; Tracy notes that the What Are You Loving? segment has a budget-friendly theme. AsOne Ministries Website: https://www.asoneafrica.org/ AsOne Ministries Instagram: @asoneministries AsOne Ministries Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AsOneAfrica Mitchell Corn Palace Becoming Whole: Why the Opposite of Poverty Isn't the American Dream by Dr. Brian Fikkert and Kelly M. Kapic Revelation 7:9a: After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey A Long Obedience in the Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society by Eugene H. Peterson True Self False Self: Unmasking the Spirit Within by M. Basil Pennington The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World by John Mark Comer What Are You Loving: Andrew: Cuban Sandwiches, Yampa Sandwich Company, Look's Marketplace, and A Burning in my Bones: The Authorized Biography of Eugene Peterson by Winn Collier Rachel: Libby, the Library Reading App Tracy: Anatomy of a Scandal

In this episode, Drs. Darrell Bock and Brian Fikkert discuss alleviating poverty, focusing on how best…

Many people consider the "American Dream" to be the goal of someone trying to get out of poverty. Both in the US and around the world, we have found that simply having more material goods doesn't necessarily lead to increased happiness. Join Scott and Sean for part II of Scott's earlier discussion with economist Dr. Brian Fikkert, as he critiques some of the most prominent poverty alleviation efforts and insists that flourishing involves more than accumulating material goods. [Show notes, including a full transcript, are available at www.biola.edu/thinkbiblically]

Economics touches virtually every aspect of our lives on this side of eternity. Not surprisingly, the Bible has a great deal to say about economic life. How we think about economic life from a Christian worldview is a critical part of our engagement with our culture and helps us understand what it means to love our neighbors. Join Scott for this insightful discussion with economist Brian Fikkert about the intersection of economics and the image of God. [Show notes, including a full transcript, are available at www.biola.edu/thinkbiblically]