Podcasts about day journey

Is your life set up to handle all the things you're responsible for? What if I told you that it's possible to build a life that not only supports the season you're in now, but everything you've been asking God for? In this episode of the podcast, I'll help you set up systems and rhythms that support your life and the woman you're growing into. This episode will motivate and equip you to do what it takes to live your life well. Highlights from Today's Episode Identifying this season Engaging with God Protecting what He's building Related Resources Before you can grow, you have to know where you are. Listen to this podcast episode to learn what this season is asking of you. Check out this podcast episode to identify the leaks in your life. Grab the 21 Day Journey on Boundaries. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES The post #580 – Build a Life that Can Hold More first appeared on Chrystal Evans Hurst.

What if the greatest shift you could make in your financial life didn't begin with a new budget, a better investment strategy, or a higher income—but with surrender? We don't often think of surrender as a financial word, but it lies at the heart of biblical stewardship. When we embrace the life-changing truth that God owns everything, it transforms how we live, give, plan, and manage the resources He has entrusted to us. The First Question Scripture Asks When we think about money, we tend to ask familiar questions: How much do I have? How much will I need? Am I making progress? Am I doing better or worse than others? Those questions may be important, but they are not where Scripture begins. From the opening pages of the Bible, God is revealed as the Creator and owner of everything. Before humanity ever cultivated a garden or named a creature, God formed, filled, and ruled creation. Psalm 24:1 declares: “The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein.” Simply put, God is the owner, and we are His stewards. For many Christians, that is a familiar idea. But familiarity does not always lead to surrender. We may affirm that God owns the universe while living as though we built our lives entirely through our own effort. We say, “I worked for this,” or, “I earned this.” And while diligent work matters, Scripture reminds us that even our ability to produce wealth comes from God. Deuteronomy 8:18 says: “You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth.” Our talents, opportunities, health, time, and ability to work are all gifts from the Lord. Owners or Stewards? Jesus develops this idea in the parable of the talents in Matthew 25. A master entrusts resources to three servants before leaving on a journey. Two servants put what they received to work, while the third buries his portion out of fear. When the master returns, he commends the first two servants—not merely because they produced impressive results, but because they were faithful. That distinction matters. The world often defines success by outcomes: how much we earn, accumulate, grow, or achieve. God calls us to something deeper—faithfulness with whatever He has placed in our hands. If God owns everything, then we are not owners in the ultimate sense. We are managers. The New Testament word commonly translated as “steward” is oikonomos, meaning “household manager.” A steward manages resources he did not create, for purposes he did not determine, under the authority of the master he serves. At first, that may sound limiting. In reality, it is profoundly freeing. As financial teacher Ron Blue has often said, “If God owns it all, you can't lose anything.” Ownership carries an enormous burden. The owner must ultimately provide, protect, and control. But if God is the owner, then we do not have to carry those responsibilities alone. Stewardship carries responsibility, but it also rests on trust. When Financial Choices Become Worship When we truly embrace stewardship, ordinary financial decisions become opportunities to worship God. Budgeting becomes more than organizing income and expenses. It becomes a way of aligning our desires with God's priorities. Giving becomes a response to the generosity we have already received from Him. Saving becomes wise preparation rather than fearful hoarding. Planning becomes an act of obedience rather than an attempt to control every possible outcome. Investing becomes a way to cultivate and multiply what belongs to the Lord, not a strategy for securing complete independence from Him. The Puritan pastor Thomas Watson once wrote, “What we keep, we may lose. What we give to God is kept forever.” That statement reminds us that earthly ownership is temporary, but faithful stewardship has eternal significance. The apostle Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6:7: “For we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world.” That reality is not meant to discourage us. It is meant to liberate us. When we stop clutching what we cannot keep, we become free to invest our lives in what can never be lost. Faithfulness Begins With Surrender If God owns everything, what does He expect from us? Jesus gives us a clear answer in Luke 16:10: “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much.” Faithfulness is not determined by the size of our income, investment portfolio, home, or charitable gifts. It is about how we respond to whatever God has entrusted to us. Stewardship is not reserved for the wealthy. It applies to every person in every financial season. A person living paycheck to paycheck can be faithful. A retiree managing decades of savings can be faithful. A young adult earning their first salary can be faithful. A business owner, parent, student, or widow can all honor God through the resources in their care. Faithfulness is not primarily about how much we have. It is about whether we have surrendered what we have to God. And surrender always begins in the heart. The Humility and Hope of Stewardship When we accept that God owns it all, we receive two things the world cannot offer: humility and hope. We gain humility because we stop viewing our accomplishments as entirely self-made. We recognize God as the source of our abilities, opportunities, and provision. We gain hope because we realize that we are not carrying the burden of provision alone. God equips. God guides. God provides. That does not mean we stop working, planning, or making wise decisions. Biblical stewardship requires diligence. But it allows us to work faithfully without treating every result as though it depends entirely on us. So where might God be inviting you to shift from an owner's mindset to a steward's heart? Perhaps it is in your giving, planning, saving, or lifestyle. Perhaps it is in the quiet assumption that your security depends more on markets, income, or possessions than on the God who “owns the cattle on a thousand hills” (Psalm 50:10). Stewardship is not about God trying to get something from you. It is about God doing something within you. It reorders the heart so that money occupies its proper place—not as a master, but as a tool entrusted to us for God's purposes and glory. Continue the Journey To explore more about God's ownership and the surrender at the heart of faithful stewardship, consider Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship. This devotional is designed to help you examine your relationship with money, possessions, generosity, and the God who owns it all. Copies are available for individuals, churches, and small groups at FaithFi.com/Shop. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm working on my budget and currently contributing 15% to my 401(k), with about a 5% employer match. But I have less than two months of expenses in my emergency fund. Should I reduce my 401(k) contributions and focus on building six months of emergency savings first? My mother passed away and left my sister a house in Lares, Puerto Rico, but the title was never transferred into my sister's name. She's been living there for about a year. What process does she need to follow to get legal ownership under Puerto Rico law? Some relatives inherited property and are receiving calls from out-of-town people offering to help them sell it. What kind of professional should they work with? Could a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®) help them find a trustworthy real estate attorney or other needed professionals? I'm a widow, and since my husband passed away a couple of years ago, I've felt unsure about financial decisions. I have a little over $1 million in an IRA, no debt or mortgage, and my expenses are covered by survivor Social Security and part-time work. I want to steward these assets well for my children and grandchildren. What strategy should I consider for the IRA, and what kind of advisor should I work with? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Wise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan, JD.  Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

When God entrusts us with more than we need, the question is not simply “How can we preserve it?” or “How can we grow it?” The deeper question is, “What is this surplus for?” That question moves stewardship beyond spreadsheets, tax strategies, and investment performance. It takes us into matters of the heart, family, calling, and purpose. And for many families, that is where stewardship becomes both more challenging and more meaningful. Rachel McDonough, a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®), Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), and author of The River and the Garden: A Story of Faithfully Stewarding Surplus, joined the show today to explore how Christians can think more deeply about stewarding wealth, especially when they have been entrusted with more than they need for provision. Why Tell a Stewardship Story? Rachel has spent more than 20 years crafting financial plans. So when her publisher first suggested she write fiction about stewardship, she was surprised. After all, much of the financial world is built around practical tools, frameworks, and step-by-step guidance. But Rachel came to see that a story can reach places a spreadsheet cannot. That matters because real families do not fit neatly into formulas. They bring different perspectives, fears, desires, wounds, and hopes to the table. And when money is involved, especially significant money, those relational dynamics often come to the surface. That is part of what makes The River and the Garden unique. It is not a technical manual. It is a parable about wealth, family, faith, and the purposes of God. The River, the Garden, and the Craig Family The novel follows three generations of the Craig family. Maddie, the grandmother and matriarch, has come into a surplus after the sale of a family business. Her son Roger is analytical, driven, and accustomed to solving problems through strategy and optimization. Willow, Maddie's granddaughter, is a young artist who wants little to do with money, numbers, or spreadsheets. Together, they begin a journey that takes them through overlooked neighborhoods in Dallas and even to Rwanda as they explore investment and giving opportunities. Along the way, they wrestle with a central question: What does it look like to steward a surplus faithfully? The imagery of the book is simple but powerful. The river represents capital. The garden represents what we choose to water, cultivate, and grow. That image reframes the way we think about money. Capital is not neutral. It does not merely sit still in an account. It flows somewhere. It waters something. And the faithful steward must ask whether those resources are flowing toward purposes that honor God and serve others. When Capital Becomes Stagnant One of the most striking scenes in the book comes through one of Willow's dreams. In it, she sees dark, stagnant pools of water—a picture of capital left unattended. Rachel says that the image should unsettle thoughtful Christians for at least two reasons. First, capital never truly stands still. We may think of it as simply “sitting” in an investment account, but it is always connected to something. It may be funding businesses, industries, practices, or systems that either contribute to human flourishing or diminish it. Second, surplus wealth needs a purpose. Investing for provision is good and right. Families should plan wisely, save diligently, and seek to provide for their needs. But when a family has more than enough for provision, the conversation should expand. What is the surplus for? Rachel describes surplus as “fuel”—an accelerant for the vision and calling God has placed before a family. That does not mean being careless or impulsive. It means prayerfully assigning purpose to resources rather than allowing them to drift without intention. Provision, Impact, and Prayerful Tension Rachel shared that she and her husband have wrestled personally with this tension between provision and impact. In some cases, they have chosen to invest a portion of their non-retirement savings in redemptive businesses that seek to address serious needs, including a company working toward cancer treatment that could serve not only affluent patients but also people in the Global South. Those choices were not haphazard. They were made through prayer, analysis, planning, and mutual agreement as husband and wife. That is an important distinction. Faithful stewardship is not the same as recklessness. Trusting God does not mean ignoring wisdom. Rather, it means recognizing that the resources God entrusts to us may have purposes beyond our own security. A Book for Those Asking, “What Is This For?” Rachel says The River and the Garden is especially for those who have been entrusted with more than they need and are asking what faithful stewardship looks like now. That may include someone who has received an inheritance, sold a business, accumulated significant assets, or reached a point where the resources exceed what is needed for ordinary provision. For those families, new opportunities may open up in both giving and investing. Many people are familiar with stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and traditional charitable giving. But when surplus is truly available, there may be opportunities to support redemptive businesses, private investments, community development, global work, or other efforts that are not always on a family's radar. Surplus wealth can easily become a source of pride, fear, or conflict. But rightly understood, it can become a tool for joining in the good work God is doing in the world. Aligning Head and Heart At the emotional center of the story is the relationship between Roger and Willow. Roger represents technical mastery. He is confident in spreadsheets, strategies, and optimization. Willow represents relational insight and imagination. She sees the human cost of wealth and longs for transformation, but she initially wants nothing to do with financial conversations. Their journey shows the importance of bringing head and heart together. Faithful stewardship requires wisdom, planning, and diligence. But it also requires love, humility, discernment, and imagination. If we only optimize, we may miss the people and purposes God is inviting us to see. If we only dream, we may neglect the responsibility that comes with stewardship. Near the end of the story, Maddie reflects on the windfall that came from the sale of the business her husband built. She recognizes that the family may have worked too hard and sacrificed too much along the way. She cannot recover the time that was lost, but she can still ask that the money count for something. Many families cannot rewrite the past. They cannot undo every sacrifice, repair every regret, or reclaim every missed moment. But by God's grace, they can still ask what faithfulness looks like today. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 65 and have an annuity worth about $28,000. I'm considering taking monthly withdrawals from it. Is that a wise option? I've been a member of my church for 10 years and have always tithed from my salary. Lately, I'm struggling with some of the church's spending decisions, including music-related purchases and the shift in support from a women's shelter to library reading programs. How should I think about continuing to tithe when I disagree with how some of the money is being used? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Garden Audit Assessment The River and the Garden: A Story of Faithfully Stewarding Surplus by Rachel McDonough Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

Amos 3:3 asks, “Do two walk together, unless they have agreed to meet?” In context, the prophet is speaking of Israel's relationship with God. But the principle also reminds us of something important for marriage: a husband and wife cannot walk together well unless they are headed in the same direction. That is especially true when it comes to money. For many couples, finances become a source of tension, secrecy, resentment, or fear. But God designed marriage for unity. And when handled with wisdom, humility, and shared purpose, money can become one of the tools God uses to strengthen a couple's oneness rather than divide it. Matt Bell, Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing and author of Starting Strong: Discovering the Good That Money Can Do in Your Marriage, joined the show today to remind us that couples can begin to see money differently when they stop thinking in terms of “yours” and “mine” and begin embracing a unified “ours.” Why Money Can Divide a Marriage Couples do not enter marriage as blank slates. Each person brings a financial story with them. That story may include how their parents handled money, whether money felt scarce or secure growing up, how debt was viewed, what saving meant, and whether spending brought joy, stress, or conflict. One spouse may naturally lean toward saving, while the other is more comfortable spending. One may want to stretch for a larger home, while the other prefers a more conservative approach. Those differences do not have to become destructive. But they do need to be acknowledged. Money disagreements are often not just about numbers. They are about fears, hopes, expectations, habits, and deeply formed assumptions. That is why patience and honest conversation are so important. Unity does not usually happen by accident. It grows through prayer, listening, humility, and a shared commitment to honor God together. Start With a Shared Vision Before couples make decisions about accounts, budgets, debt, or spending, they need to begin with a bigger question: What are we trying to do with what God has entrusted to us? Matt encourages couples to start by casting a shared vision rooted in their faith. That means praying together and committing their financial lives to the Lord. It means agreeing that everything ultimately belongs to God and that they are stewards—not owners—of what He has provided. That foundation matters because financial unity is not merely about efficiency. It is about discipleship. A couple's financial decisions should reflect their shared desire to serve the Lord, follow His Word, care for one another, practice generosity, and walk together in faithfulness. When couples begin there, they are better prepared to work through practical questions because they have already agreed on the direction they want to go. Consider the Gift of Joint Accounts One practical question many couples face is whether to combine finances or keep accounts separate. While some accounts, such as IRAs, must remain individual, Matt strongly recommends joint checking and savings accounts wherever possible. Joint accounts can foster transparency, teamwork, and trust. They help prevent secrecy and reinforce the reality that husband and wife are approaching life together. Research from Indiana University found that couples who combined their finances experienced fewer financial fights and greater marital happiness. One surprising finding was that couples with combined finances were more likely to serve one another without expecting something in return. The researchers described this as a more “communal” relationship—one marked by responding to a spouse's needs simply because there is a need. That picture fits beautifully with a biblical vision of marriage. Combining finances is not merely an administrative choice. For many couples, it can be a tangible step toward oneness. Of course, if one spouse is hesitant, the answer is not pressure or blame. The better path is prayerful conversation. Couples can return to Scripture, talk honestly about fears, and ask what practices would best cultivate unity, trust, and transparency in their marriage. Hold Regular Money Meetings Unity also requires communication. A shared vision is important, but couples need regular rhythms to live it out. Matt recommends that couples take the time necessary to create a cash flow plan that reflects their commitments and goals. At first, that may require several conversations. Once the plan is in place, couples can schedule a monthly meeting—perhaps 60 minutes at the end of each month—to review how things went and what needs to change. Over time, those meetings may become shorter. But the goal is not simply to look backward and see what happened. The goal is to manage money intentionally throughout the month. That means checking the plan before spending. Before heading to the grocery store or buying clothes, couples can look at the relevant category and let that information guide their decisions. This kind of ongoing communication helps prevent surprises and keeps both spouses engaged. A cash flow plan should not feel like a punishment. It is not mainly about restriction. It is about direction. It gives couples more knowledge, more intentionality, and more freedom to use money for what matters most. Let Generosity Reorient Your Hearts Generosity is one of the most powerful ways couples can move from self-focus to God-focus. Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). Giving is not just a financial act; it is a spiritual one. It trains our hearts to remember that God is our provider, that everything belongs to Him, and that money is a tool for loving Him and serving others. For married couples, generosity can become a shared joy. When a couple gives together, they are reminded that their financial life is not merely about paying bills, reducing debt, or reaching personal goals. It is about participating in the work God is doing in the world. That does not mean couples should give out of guilt or ignore real financial responsibilities. But it does mean generosity should have a meaningful place in the conversation. Even in seasons of debt repayment or financial pressure, couples can prayerfully ask, “Lord, how would You have us live open-handedly with what You've entrusted to us?” The goal is not to win an argument. The goal is to walk together. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: How important is it to hold physical gold and silver for retirement? What percentage of a portfolio should be in precious metals, and is it better to invest in gold, silver, or both? My mom passed away, and my sister and I inherited her home, worth about $300,000 to $350,000. I'm currently living there, but I recently lost my job and likely wouldn't qualify for a loan to buy out my sister's share. I have unemployment income, a 401(k) I could roll into an IRA, and I plan to start Social Security early next year. Should I try to keep the house, or would it be wiser to sell it and downsize? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Sound Mind Investing Starting Strong: Discovering the Good That Money Can Do in Your Marriage by Matt Bell Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

What if self-control isn't mainly about saying no, but about keeping Christ at the center of what we desire? Money has a way of revealing what our hearts are chasing. Our spending, saving, giving, and borrowing decisions often tell a deeper story about what we love, what we fear, and what we believe will satisfy us. That's why biblical temperance is about far more than discipline or willpower. In our continuing series on the cardinal virtues and how Christian character shapes the way we handle money, author and theologian Pierce Taylor Hibbs joined the show to help us consider temperance, or self-control.  He is a Senior Writer at Westminster Theological Seminary and the author of The Book of Giving: How the God Who Gives Can Make Us Givers. Today, he reminds us that self-control is not merely a human achievement. It is a gift of the Spirit that helps us enjoy God's gifts without letting them take God's place. Self-Control Is a Heart Issue When many people hear the word “self-control,” they think of willpower. They imagine discipline, restraint, or simply saying no to whatever they want in the moment. But Scripture gives us a deeper picture. Self-control is not merely a personality trait some people have and others lack. It is not gained by sheer determination. Instead, self-control is closely connected to the heart. A lack of self-control often reveals disordered desires—places where our hearts are chasing something other than God. The presence of self-control reveals a heart that is increasingly content in God and His promises. That means temperance is not about rejecting every enjoyable thing in the world. It is about rightly ordering our loves. God must be first, and everything else must take its proper place beneath Him. In other words, self-control is about keeping first things first. A Gift of the Spirit That truth should encourage us. If self-control were only a matter of willpower, many of us would have little hope. We have all experienced the frustration of trying harder, setting new goals, making new rules, and still falling back into the same habits. But Galatians 5 tells us that self-control is a fruit of the Spirit. It is something God produces in His people as we walk with Him. That does not mean discipline is unimportant. Habits, boundaries, budgets, and accountability can all be helpful tools. But they are not the source of true self-control. The source is God Himself. So when our desires are out of order, the first step is not merely to try harder. It is to turn to the Lord in prayer and ask Him to form in us what we cannot produce on our own. God has given us a new heart in Christ, and by His Spirit, He teaches us to desire what is good, lasting, and true. Enjoying God's Gifts Without Replacing Him Temperance may involve restriction because our desires can easily become disordered. But restriction is not the goal. The goal is joy rightly ordered under Christ. A simple example is something like coffee or sugar. There is nothing wrong with enjoying either. They can be good gifts from God. But if our world were to fall apart without them, that might reveal something about the state of our hearts. The problem is not that we enjoy good things. The problem comes when we love those things more than we love our relationship with the Lord. A helpful question to ask is: What is my heart chasing right now? That question applies not only to food and drink, but also to money. What are our purchases chasing? Comfort? Control? Status? Escape? Approval? Security? Pleasure? None of those desires is unfamiliar to the human heart. And money often becomes the tool we use to pursue them. Why Money Reveals Our Desires Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6:10 that “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils.” The issue is not money itself but the heart's relationship to it. Jesus also warned that we cannot serve both God and money. Money is powerful because, in many ways, it functions like a key. It can unlock access to many of the things the heart desires—comfort, influence, experiences, possessions, pleasure, recognition, or a sense of control. That is why our financial decisions are so revealing. They show what we are chasing. Of course, money can be used in a good and God-honoring way. It can provide for needs, support a family, bless a neighbor, fund ministry, relieve suffering, and express worship through generosity. But money can also reveal that our hearts are running after something other than God. Our spending decisions tell a story. The question is whether that story points to Christ as our greatest treasure. The Challenge of a Consumer Culture Financial self-control is especially challenging in a culture that constantly tells us to buy now, upgrade now, and satisfy every desire now. Technology has made temptation more immediate than ever. Social media platforms and online ads are designed to place curated products directly in front of us. The very things we are most likely to want often appear in our feeds, inboxes, and search results. That means our commitment to Christ is being tested constantly—not only by obviously sinful things, but also by good gifts that can quietly become ultimate things. A vacation can be a gift. A home can be a gift. A hobby can be a gift. A meal, a phone, a car, a cup of coffee, or a new pair of shoes can all be received with gratitude. But when the gift becomes more captivating than the Giver, our desires have become disordered. Temperance helps us receive God's gifts with open hands, gratitude, and perspective. Jesus Shows Us Perfect Self-Control One beautiful picture of this comes after the resurrection in John 21. The disciples had spent the night fishing and caught nothing. Jesus met them on the shore and neither rebuked them for fishing nor told them that physical things did not matter. Instead, He helped them find fish, prepared a fire, and invited them to breakfast. Fresh fish and warm bread were not treated as distractions from spiritual life. They were gifts to be enjoyed with Jesus at the center. That is a wonderful picture of temperance. Biblical self-control does not require us to reject every earthly blessing. It teaches us to enjoy every blessing in communion with Christ, remembering that He is better than the gifts He gives. We do not need to abandon money or pretend material needs do not matter. But we do need to ask whether Christ remains central in how we earn, spend, save, give, and enjoy. A Question for Every Financial Decision So how can we practice temperance in our financial lives this week? One simple question can help: How is God remaining central in this decision? That question does not produce a mechanical answer, but it does reveal the heart. It invites us to pause, pray, and consider whether our money is serving our love for God or competing with it. Self-control is not the joyless denial of every good thing. It is the Spirit-given ability to enjoy God's gifts without letting them replace God as our ultimate treasure. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 67, and my wife is 68. We have a traditional IRA, and I'm concerned that once RMDs begin at 73, the withdrawals could eventually push us—or my wife, if I pass first—into a higher tax bracket and increase Medicare premiums. What planning steps should we consider? I've been overpaid on Social Security SSDI and am currently repaying it. Do I have to repay the full amount before I can switch to my regular Social Security retirement benefit? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) The Book of Giving: How the God Who Gives Can Make Us Givers by Pierce Taylor Hibbs Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The birds don't gather into barns. The lilies don't spin their own clothing. Yet Jesus says both have something to teach us about trust. Financial fear often begins when we realize how much we cannot control. We can plan wisely, save diligently, and prepare carefully—but tomorrow still belongs to God. That's why Jesus' words in Matthew 6 offer such deep comfort for anxious hearts. When Worry Feels Heavy In Matthew 6, Jesus says, “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.” Later, He adds, “Do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself.” For anyone who has struggled with financial fear, those words can feel heavy. You may think, I know I shouldn't worry—but I do. You worry about the bills. You worry about your job. You worry about the market, retirement, your children, or what happens if the car breaks down, the medical bill comes in, or the paycheck doesn't stretch far enough. And then, on top of the worry, you may feel guilty for worrying. But Jesus is not standing over anxious people simply saying, “Stop it.” Instead, He draws near and says, “Look.” Look at the Birds. Consider the Lilies. Jesus invites us to look at the birds of the air and the lilies of the field. He points us to a world that does not revolve around our control, our striving, our spreadsheets, or our ability to predict every outcome. “The birds of the air” do not sow or reap or gather into barns, and yet our heavenly Father feeds them. The lilies do not toil or spin, and yet not even Solomon in all his glory was clothed like one of them. Jesus is not saying planning is wrong. Scripture encourages wise preparation and faithful stewardship. But He is exposing the illusion that we are in control. Anxiety often grows in the gap between what we can manage and what we cannot guarantee. We can make a budget, but we cannot control tomorrow. We can save wisely, but we cannot control the economy. We can work faithfully, but we cannot control every outcome. And when we begin to believe everything depends on us, stewardship becomes a crushing burden. Planning turns into panic. Saving turns into hoarding. Responsibility turns into fear. Your Father Knows That's why Jesus tells us to look beyond ourselves. The birds are a sermon in the sky. The flowers are a testimony in the field. Creation itself is preaching the care of God. And Jesus' point is not merely “Don't worry.” His deeper point is this: Your Father knows. Your Father knows what you need. Your Father sees what burdens you. Your Father understands the bills, the uncertainty, the decisions, the pressure, and the fear that wakes you up at night. And if He feeds the birds—creatures that do not bear His image—how much more will He care for you, His beloved child? That does not mean every financial difficulty disappears. Jesus never promises a life without trouble. In fact, He says, “Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” There are real burdens in this life. There are real needs. There are real moments of uncertainty. But Jesus invites us to face today's trouble with today's grace. Today's Trouble, Today's Grace “Do not be anxious about tomorrow” is not a cold command. It is a tender invitation. Jesus is reminding us that we do not have to live as though the future rests on our shoulders. We do not have to secure our own universe. We do not have to hold everything together. Our Father is already there. So what do we do with financial anxiety? We bring it honestly to God. We name the fears we are carrying. We ask for wisdom where action is needed. We seek wise counsel when decisions feel too heavy. And then, with open hands, we release what we cannot control. We do the next faithful thing today. Our Security Is in God As we do, we remember that our security is not ultimately in our income. It is not in our investments. It is not in our plans. It is not in our ability to foresee tomorrow. Our security is in God—the One who knows what we need, invites us to look at the sparrows, and gives us the grace to trust Him one day at a time. If financial fear and anxiety are weighing on your heart, we'd love to help you explore these truths more deeply through our 21-day devotional, Look at the Sparrows. You can order your copy at FaithFi.com/Shop. And if you'd like to go through it with your church or small group, bulk orders and bulk discounts are available there as well. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I haven't filed my tax returns for a few years, and I want to make things right. I've heard about the IRS “Fresh Start” program. Should I work with a tax relief company, hire a CPA, or contact the IRS directly through my local office? My husband and I are in our mid-60s, and our business is winding down. We have roughly $900,000 to $1 million in real estate, including our home, business building, and another property, plus about $700,000 in stocks and bonds with an advisor. Is real estate considered aggressive or conservative in our overall portfolio? And at our age, how should our investments be allocated? I'm 64 and want to set up a trust to help my assets avoid probate. Should I place only titled assets, like my home, in the trust, or should investment accounts be included too? Could retitling investment accounts into a trust trigger taxes? I also owe about $115,000 on my home. One of my children would like to live there with his kids, and I'd like my grandchildren to have a home if something happens to me. Should the trust pay off the mortgage from my assets, or should I consider life insurance or mortgage protection to cover it? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The world constantly tells us we need just a little bit more. A better home. A newer car. A bigger savings account. A longer vacation. But what if real contentment isn't found in having more but in learning to need less? That's the heart of today's conversation with Jeff Manion, Teaching Pastor of Ada Bible Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and author of the article “Discovering the Power of Contentment” in the latest issue of Faithful Steward magazine.  Jeff reminds us that contentment is not something we stumble into once life finally settles down. It is something we learn—often through both scarcity and sufficiency. Why Wealth Can Be Confusing Jeff begins with an honest admission: “Wealth confuses me.” That may sound surprising coming from someone who has spent decades in ministry, but his point is deeply relatable. Early in his ministry, Jeff and his wife, Chris, lived simply out of necessity. They served a small church of about 25 people, and for years, resources were limited. They learned to depend on God in a season when there was barely enough. But decades later, after faithfully avoiding debt, building an emergency fund, and practicing wise stewardship, Jeff realized the struggle for contentment had not disappeared. It had simply changed. That is an important lesson for all of us. We may assume contentment will come once the bills are paid, the debt is gone, the savings account is stronger, or the house is finally updated. But contentment is not automatic in seasons of sufficiency. In fact, prosperity can bring its own spiritual dangers. The Desert Classroom Jeff points to Deuteronomy 8, where Moses speaks to Israel before they enter the Promised Land. For 40 years, God had provided manna in the wilderness. Day by day, He kept His people alive in a barren place. But as they prepared to enter a land “flowing with milk and honey,” Moses gave them a warning: do not forget the Lord. That warning matters because abundance can create spiritual amnesia. Once the Israelites moved from manna in the desert to houses, vineyards, flocks, and herds, they would be tempted to say, “My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth” (Deuteronomy 8:17). The danger was not that prosperity itself was evil. The danger was forgetting the Source. That same temptation faces us today. When finances stabilize, debts are paid off, and retirement savings begin to grow, we can quietly begin to believe that our wisdom, effort, and discipline produced everything we have. But Scripture reminds us that even our ability to produce wealth is a gift from God. Contentment begins with remembering: everything we have comes from Him. The Freedom of Having Less Jeff also shared about a personal decluttering experiment. Over seven weeks, he gave away or got rid of five items a day—about 210 items in total. These were not grand acts of generosity. Many were simply things that had accumulated over time: old CDs, unused dishes, T-shirts from events and races, and items tucked away in drawers or boxes. The result surprised him. He felt lighter. In his words, he felt “richer for having less.” That experience reveals something important about our relationship with possessions. Stuff has a way of multiplying. Without even noticing, we surround ourselves with things we no longer use, need, or value. And sometimes, the more we own, the more weighed down we become. Decluttering is not just about organizing a closet. It can become a spiritual practice—one that helps us confront the quiet belief that more stuff equals a fuller life. Here and Now, Not There and Then One of the great enemies of contentment is what Jeff calls “there and then” thinking. We tell ourselves: “I'll be happy when we get out of this apartment.” “I'll be at peace when we can renovate the kitchen.” “I'll finally enjoy life when we take that vacation.” “I'll feel secure when we reach that financial goal.” But contentment teaches us to be fully alive to God and fully present with the people around us here and now—not only there and then. That does not mean goals are wrong. It is wise to plan, save, improve, and prepare. But no purchase, renovation, trip, or financial milestone can fix what is restless in the soul. The Apostle Paul wrote, “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content” (Philippians 4:11). Those words were not written from comfort, but from confinement. Paul had learned contentment while living under hardship and limitation. That means contentment is not the reward for finally getting everything we want. It is the grace of being satisfied in God even when we do not. Comparison Steals Joy and Cripples Generosity Another major barrier to contentment is comparison. There will always be someone with a larger home, a better vacation, a newer vehicle, or a more impressive lifestyle. And in the age of social media, we are not merely comparing our reality to someone else's reality. We are comparing our reality to someone else's curated image. That kind of comparison shrivels the heart. It trains us to focus on what we lack rather than the blessings God has already given. It also damages generosity. Generosity flows from a sense of abundance—from recognizing that God has given us more than enough to share. But when comparison convinces us we never have enough, our hands begin to close. We become less joyful, less grateful, and less willing to give. Contentment helps break that cycle. It opens our eyes to God's provision and frees us to live generously. Generosity Reflects the Heart of God Paul gives this instruction in 1 Timothy 6:17–18: “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God… They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.” That passage reminds us that wealth is not to become the foundation of our hope. God alone is our provider. And because He has been generous toward us, we are called to reflect His generosity toward others. Giving loosens money's grip on our hearts. It reminds us that our possessions are not ultimate. They are tools entrusted to us for worship, provision, and service. A legacy of contentment does not mean rejecting good gifts. It means receiving them rightly. It means enjoying what God provides without making those gifts the center of our lives. Contentment is learned in every season—whether resources are tight or abundant. It grows as we remember the Source of all we have, resist comparison, practice generosity, and become fully alive to God in the life He has given us today. The world will keep saying, “You need more.” But Scripture invites us into something better: godliness with contentment, which is great gain. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I've heard the FaithFi promotion mentioned on the program, and online it says the money market account promotion is worth up to $400. I haven't been able to find the details on the website. Can you explain how the promotion works and how the $400 is structured? My wife and I sold our home and will net about $200,000. We're about six years from retirement and plan to move to St. George, Utah. We could lease a nice home for about $2,200 a month, buy a condo with cash and pay about $300 a month in HOA fees, or buy a comparable house for about $150,000 more than we have available and finance the difference, with about $200 monthly in HOA fees. Our goal is to stay as close to debt-free as possible. Would it be wiser to pay cash for the condo, lease for now, or finance the more expensive house? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Discovering the Power of Contentment by Jeff Manion (Article in Faithful Steward, Issue 6) An Uncommon Guide to Retirement: Finding God's Purpose for the Next Season of Life by Jeff Haanen AdelFi Christian Banking Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

It's hard to believe, but the back-to-school season is almost here. For many families, that means new schedules, new supplies, new clothes, and plenty of new expenses. But the start of a school year doesn't have to bring financial stress or household chaos. With a little planning, wise budgeting, and prayerful preparation, families can begin the year with greater peace and purpose. Crystal Paine, Creator of MoneySavingMom.com and the author of The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most. As families prepare for another school year, she offers practical advice for saving money, involving your children, creating better routines, and staying spiritually grounded amid the busyness. Start With the Essentials Back-to-school shopping can get expensive quickly. Between clothes, shoes, backpacks, lunch boxes, crayons, uniforms, and technology, it's easy to feel like everything needs to be purchased at once. There will always be more you could buy, but the better question is, “What do we actually need?” Before heading to the store or filling an online cart, take inventory of what you already have. Then compare that with the school supply list and your family's budget. For families with older children, this can also become a valuable teaching opportunity. Crystal recommends involving teens in the process by giving them a specific back-to-school budget for clothing or supplies. Then they are responsible for deciding what they need, what they want, and how to stay within that amount. Sometimes, they may decide to use some of their own money to buy an extra item. That can be a good thing. It helps them learn that money is limited, that choices have trade-offs, and that budgeting requires wisdom. Look for Package Deals and School Supply Discounts Another way to save time and money is to find out whether your school offers a pre-packaged supply option. Some schools or parent organizations offer supply kits that include everything your child needs for the year. While it may not always be the least expensive option, it's worth comparing. In some cases, buying the package can save money and certainly save time. Instead of driving from store to store searching for specific folders, notebooks, and pencils, you can purchase one package and be done. Crystal also recommends watching for back-to-school deals on supplies, clothing, uniforms, backpacks, lunch boxes, and even laptops. Her site, MoneySavingMom.com, regularly shares deals that can help families stretch their dollars further. Make the Most of Tax-Free Weekends Many states offer tax-free weekends before the school year begins. These can be a helpful way to save on items you were already planning to buy. The key is to prepare before the weekend arrives. Start by checking whether your state offers a tax-free weekend, when it takes place, and which items are included. Every state has different rules. Some include clothing and school supplies, while others may include electronics, computers, or even certain household items. Once you know what qualifies, review your budget. Then decide which purchases make sense for your family. Tax-free weekends can be useful, but they are only a good deal if you are buying things you actually need. The goal is not to spend more simply because something is tax-free. The goal is to steward your resources wisely by saving on planned purchases. Teach Children Financial Wisdom Early Back-to-school shopping can also be a training ground for children. Should you take your kids shopping with you? Crystal says it depends. If your children are still learning self-control and are likely to ask for everything they see, it may be better to shop without them. But that doesn't mean you should avoid the lesson altogether. Instead, begin teaching them in smaller, more manageable ways. Crystal and her family started when their children were very young. Around ages three or four, they gave their kids opportunities to earn money by doing extra chores. Then the children could take that money to the store and choose what they wanted to buy. That simple practice helped them begin learning the value of money. They saw that the money ran out. They learned that choosing one thing often means saying no to something else. And they began to understand that spending decisions matter. Those lessons may seem small, but they can form a foundation for wisdom later in life. Teaching children how to handle a few dollars faithfully can help prepare them to handle larger financial decisions with maturity. Build School-Year Routines Before School Starts One of the biggest mistakes families make is waiting until the night before school begins to establish a new routine. That can lead to stress, rushed mornings, tired kids, and frustrated parents. Crystal recommends beginning a few weeks early. Talk through what the school-year routine will look like. Think realistically about each person in your home. What time does everyone need to wake up? What time do you need to leave? What needs to happen before breakfast? Who needs help getting ready? Then start practicing. Begin waking up closer to the school-year schedule. Practice getting out the door by the time you'll need to leave. Ease your family back into the rhythm before the first day arrives. That transition can make the first week of school much smoother. Prepare the Night Before Anything you can do the night before will help reduce stress the next day. Lay out clothes. Pack lunches. Make sure backpacks are ready. Plan breakfast. Sign forms. Place shoes, jackets, and bags where they need to be. These simple habits can give your family a head start and help mornings feel less frantic. Preparation is not about controlling every detail. It's about creating room for peace, patience, and faithfulness in the ordinary moments of family life. Stay Spiritually Grounded Before the rush begins, remember that God has everything you need for everything He has called you to do. You do not have to carry every worry in your own strength. You can bring your anxieties, responsibilities, and decisions before Him. Back-to-school season can feel busy, but it can also become a fresh opportunity to trust the Lord, serve your family, and steward your resources well. A wise start to the school year is not only about spending less or getting organized. It's about remembering who provides, who sustains, and who gives us wisdom for each day. For more money-saving tips and practical ideas for your family, visit MoneySavingMom.com. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I own several paid-off rental homes in Arkansas that provide good income, but my children live in San Diego and don't plan to move here. I'm concerned that after I'm gone, the properties could be sold quickly for less than they're worth. I'd like their value to benefit my grandchildren for college, starting a business, or buying a home. Should I sell the homes now and place the proceeds in a trust, or is there a better way to plan? I'm 47 and recently started my career after years as a stay-at-home mom. I have no retirement savings, and my employer offers a 403(b) with both pre-tax and Roth options, plus a 3% match after one year. Since we're still working to get out of debt, should I start contributing now or wait for the match? And how much should I contribute? My income is under $1,000 a month, and I'm living paycheck to paycheck. How can I practically build giving, saving, and spending into a budget when money is this tight? And how do I include a small amount for personal enjoyment without derailing the plan? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) MoneySavingMom.com  Six Great Money Dates by Dr. Shane Enete (Article in Faithful Steward, Issue 3) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

Corrie ten Boom once said, “If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you'll be at rest.” That truth speaks directly to the way many people feel about money. When money becomes the place we look for peace, security, or identity, financial unrest is never far behind. And while it may seem like more money would solve that unrest, Scripture points us to something deeper. Elizabeth Brickman, a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®), longtime financial advisor, and author of Wealth Blessed and Wealth Confident, has spent more than 25 years helping people think biblically about money.  Through her own financial challenges and her work with clients, she has seen that true peace does not begin with a larger bank account. It begins when we stop asking money to carry what only God can. Why Financial Life Feels So Restless Many people feel financially restless because life itself rarely slows down. News, markets, social media, and cultural pressure are constantly telling us that more is better, faster is necessary, and comparison is unavoidable. That message is very different from the wisdom of Scripture. The world encourages us to chase more. God calls us to trust Him. The world tells us to measure our worth by what we own. God reminds us that our identity is found in Christ. The world keeps us anxious about what might happen next. God invites us to seek first His Kingdom. That doesn't mean financial concerns are imaginary. Bills, debt, rising costs, and future needs are real. But unrest grows when those concerns become bigger in our hearts than the Lord's faithfulness. Elizabeth notes that this struggle is not limited to one income level. Financial unrest can affect both believers and unbelievers, the poor and the rich. That is because unrest is not ultimately about how much money we have. It is about the mindset and heart posture we bring to money. When You Feel Overwhelmed One common source of financial unrest is feeling overwhelmed. When bills pile up, debt grows, or expenses feel unclear, it can be tempting to avoid the numbers altogether. Some people stop opening the mail. Others avoid checking their accounts. But avoidance usually increases anxiety rather than relieving it. Proverbs 27:23 says, “Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds.” In an ancient agricultural context, that meant understanding the condition of one's livelihood. Today, the principle still applies. Wise stewardship requires clarity. That first step can be uncomfortable. Looking honestly at income, expenses, debt, savings, and giving may feel painful at first. But clarity allows us to move from vague fear to faithful action. Once the numbers are known, a plan can begin. We can ask questions like: What do we owe? What do we need to prioritize? Where can we reduce spending? What habits need to change? How can we continue honoring the Lord with what He has entrusted to us? God is not a God of disorder, but of peace. Facing financial reality is not an act of fear. It can be an act of faith, trusting that the Lord meets us in the truth and gives wisdom for the next step. Building Restful Financial Rhythms Financial peace is often strengthened through simple, faithful rhythms. Elizabeth emphasizes the value of habits because habits reduce the weight of constant decision-making. When giving, saving, spending, and debt repayment are built into regular patterns, we do not have to start from scratch every time money comes in. A budget is not merely a restriction. It is a tool for aligning financial decisions with God-given priorities. When we establish rhythms around generosity, saving, and wise spending, we are better prepared to resist impulse, fear, and comparison. These habits do not replace trust in God. They help us practice it. When You Feel Overlooked by God Another source of financial unrest is feeling overlooked by God. This can happen when others seem to be getting ahead while we feel stuck. It can happen when our hard work does not produce the results we hoped for. It can happen when prayers seem unanswered or when financial progress feels painfully slow. In those moments, we need to remember what Scripture teaches about growth, provision, and timing. God's wisdom often works “little by little.” Proverbs 13:11 says, “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” That principle stands against get-rich-quick thinking, gambling, and reckless financial shortcuts. The Lord's way is often patient, steady, and formative. He teaches us to work, give, save, wait, and trust. Financial delay may feel frustrating, but it can also become a place of discipleship. Sometimes the Lord uses seasons of limitation to prepare us for greater faithfulness later. Being overlooked by the world is not the same as being forgotten by God. He sees His children. He knows their needs. And His timing is never careless. When You Feel Overextended A third source of financial unrest is feeling overextended, especially through debt. Debt can weigh heavily on the heart. It limits flexibility, creates pressure, and can make people feel trapped. Elizabeth speaks with compassion here because she has experienced that burden herself. After being caught in a devastating financial situation involving a trusted person who disappeared with borrowed money, she became morally obligated to repay a debt equal to about $200,000 in today's dollars. That season required daily trust, humility, and perseverance. But by God's grace, she paid the debt in full. For those who feel buried by debt, the way forward usually begins with humility and a plan. That may mean living more simply for a season, seeking wise counsel, cutting expenses, increasing income, or pursuing a structured debt-repayment strategy. Debt may be painful, but it does not have to define the rest of your story. God gives wisdom. He gives endurance. And He often uses the process of getting out of debt to reshape our desires, priorities, and dependence on Him. True Peace Begins With Christ Financial unrest often grows when we look to money for what only Christ can give. Money can pay bills, reduce certain pressures, and provide practical options. But it cannot give lasting peace. It cannot secure our identity. It cannot satisfy the soul. It cannot carry the weight of our ultimate hope. That is why biblical financial wisdom begins with worship. Before we ask, “How much do I have?” we need to ask, “Who am I trusting?” When we look at the world, there will always be reasons for distress. When we look only within, we may find fear, worry, or discouragement. But when we look to Christ, we are reminded that our lives are held by the One who is faithful. Financial peace is not found in pretending problems do not exist. It is found in bringing those problems honestly before the Lord and taking the next wise step with Him. So if you feel overwhelmed, seek clarity. If you feel overlooked, remember God's timing. If you feel overextended, humble yourself and begin taking faithful steps toward freedom. More money alone will not solve financial unrest. But Christ can reorder our hearts, renew our minds, and teach us to handle money with wisdom, contentment, and trust. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I bought a home computer from a rent-to-own company right before COVID, but when work slowed down, I couldn't keep up with the payments. I tried to return it, but they said it would still count as a repossession and told me to keep it. Now the company has gone bankrupt, and a collection agency is offering a discounted payoff I can't afford yet. What legal action could they take if I miss the deadline, and could I go to jail over this? I'm 64 and turning 65 in November. I'm a retired educator with a strong pension and widow's benefit, and I may eventually switch to my own Social Security. I'm receiving lots of Medicare mail and dinner invitations from insurance companies. Where can I get reliable guidance, and how should I decide between Medicare Advantage and a Medigap plan? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

Inflation has cooled from its recent highs, but for many households, the financial strain has not disappeared. Over the last several years, families have faced rising costs for groceries, insurance, housing, utilities, and other everyday needs. And for many, credit cards became the tool they used to make ends meet. Neile Simon, a Certified Credit Counselor and Director of Strategic Partnerships at Christian Credit Counselors, joins the show today to share how many families are now carrying the balances they built up during those difficult years. And with credit card interest rates often running between 22% and 30% APR, making real progress can feel almost impossible. That is where credit counseling can help. Why So Many Families Feel Stuck Many households are not dealing with credit card debt because of careless spending. In many cases, families were simply trying to stay afloat. When wages do not keep pace with rising expenses, even a well-intentioned budget can become difficult to maintain. Then, once balances accumulate, high interest makes repayment feel overwhelming. A family may make payments faithfully each month, only to see most of that money go toward interest rather than reducing the principal. For some, the pressure has increased further as student loan payments have resumed, placing added strain on budgets already stretched thin. The result is a cycle that can feel discouraging: payments continue, but the balance barely moves. The Good News: More People Are Seeking Help One encouraging trend is that financial literacy is growing. More people are becoming proactive in understanding their options, learning how debt works, and seeking responsible ways to repay what they owe. Online tools and educational resources can be helpful, especially when they explain the difference between debt management and riskier debt settlement programs. But every financial situation is unique. That is why it is wise to talk with a trained counselor who can review your specific circumstances and help you create a plan. Early action can make a significant difference. The sooner someone seeks guidance, the more options they may have. How Credit Counseling Can Help Credit counseling is designed to help people break the cycle of high-interest payments and begin making real progress. A reputable credit counseling agency can review your income, expenses, debts, and goals, then help you determine the best path forward. For many people, that may include a structured debt management plan. Through Christian Credit Counselors, for example, clients may be able to reduce credit card interest rates to between 1% and 12% APR, with rates fixed for the length of the program. That can make a major difference. Lower interest means more of each payment goes toward reducing the balance. In many cases, monthly payments may also be lowered, creating more breathing room in the budget. For those who have fallen behind, enrollment in a credit counseling program can also help stop late fees and collection calls. But most importantly, it allows clients to repay their debt responsibly and honor their commitments in full. A God-Honoring Approach to Debt At FaithFi, we appreciate credit counseling because it offers a practical and responsible way to address debt without pretending the debt does not matter. The goal is not to avoid responsibility, but to create a wise plan for repayment. That is one reason we value the work of Christian Credit Counselors. Their approach is not merely transactional. They care for the people they serve, build relationships with clients, pray with them, and seek to ease the stress and strain of credit card debt by offering solutions that honor God. Debt can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to be faced alone. With wise support, a clear plan, and faithful perseverance, progress is possible. To learn more, visit FaithFi.com/CCC. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My father passed away less than a year ago and left money to his children. I've lived paycheck to paycheck most of my life, and while my wife wants to buy a house and a truck, I'd rather slow down, plan for the future, invest wisely, and think about leaving something for our kids. What's the best way to approach this? And is it worth meeting with a CKA, even if I'm not sure the amount is large enough? I have two children, ages six and eight, and I'm overwhelmed by about $25,000 in debt, including roughly $17,000 in credit cards and several loans. I've tried to rework my budget, but rising costs for gas, groceries, and school activities have made it feel impossible. I've looked into a debt management plan, but Christian Credit Counselors can only help with the credit cards, not the loans. Should I pursue debt management, consider bankruptcy, or take another step? My husband and I are buying our first home, but everything we're considering is near the top of our budget. With market uncertainty, is it wiser to buy now and secure a home for our future family, or wait and save for a larger down payment to lower the monthly cost? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Christian Credit Counselors (CCC) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

“The one who gets wisdom loves life; the one who cherishes understanding will soon prosper.” — Proverbs 19:8 Wisdom doesn't just shape what we believe. It shapes how we live—including how we handle money. That's why prudence has long been considered one of the cardinal virtues. It's not a word we use every day, but it speaks directly to the way Christians make decisions, set priorities, manage resources, and seek to honor God with what He has entrusted to us. In this new series on the financial virtues, Dr. Greg Forster, Affiliate Professor of Biblical and Systematic Theology at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS) and Executive Director of the Christian Investing Council (CIC), joined the show today to discuss prudence and why faithful stewardship requires more than financial knowledge. What Is Virtue? Before we can understand prudence, we first need to understand virtue. Dr. Forster defines virtue as becoming a Christlike person. It is not merely doing the right thing outwardly. It is developing Christlike qualities in our character so that we obey God from the heart. Jesus often exposed the danger of outward obedience without inward transformation. He spoke of “whitewashed tombs” that looked clean on the outside but were full of death within. He also warned against cleaning the outside of the cup while leaving the inside filthy. Those images remind us that God cares not only about what we do, but also how and why we do it. That is especially important when it comes to money. Faithful stewardship is not a checklist. It is not simply giving a certain amount, following a set of financial rules, or making decisions that appear responsible on the surface. Stewardship is relational. It is part of our worship. It is one way we bring our whole selves before the Lord and say, “This belongs to You. How can I use it for Your purposes?” The Cardinal Virtues and the Christian Life The cardinal virtues—prudence, temperance, fortitude, and justice—come from a long tradition in Christian moral reflection. The word “cardinal” comes from the Latin word for the hinge of a door. These virtues are “hinge” virtues because they help guide and shape the others. Christian ethics has often distinguished between theological virtues, which are known through God's revelation in Scripture, and moral virtues, which are more broadly recognized because God has made His moral order known through creation and conscience. That matters for two reasons. First, it reminds us that all people are accountable to God. Even those who have never read the Bible still live in God's world and bear His image. Second, it gives us a foundation for shared life with neighbors who may not share our faith. There are moral truths people can recognize because God has woven them into the world He made. Among those moral virtues, prudence has often been seen as especially important because it helps us discern how to put wisdom into practice. What Is Prudence? Prudence is often described as wisdom in action. It is not simply about having good goals. It is knowing the right means to pursue those goals faithfully. As Dr. Forster explained, we often say, “The ends don't justify the means.” In other words, having a good goal does not give us permission to pursue it in careless, wasteful, or sinful ways. Prudence helps us ask, "What is the right course of action?" What is the wise path forward? How do we pursue good ends in a way that honors God? That makes prudence deeply practical. It moves us from abstract desire to concrete obedience. It is one thing to say, “I want to be more Christlike,” or “I want to be a faithful steward.” It is another thing to ask, “What decision should I make today? What habit needs to change? What plan will help me move toward faithfulness?” Prudence is where the rubber meets the road. Prudence in Scripture The book of Proverbs is one of the clearest places we see prudence in Scripture. Proverbs repeatedly teaches that God cares not only about the goals we pursue, but also the path we take to reach them. Wisdom is practical. It shows up in our words, our work, our planning, our relationships, and our use of money. Jesus also points us toward prudence when He tells His disciples to be “wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” Innocence matters, but so does wisdom. Christ calls His people to pursue holiness with careful thought, discernment, and faithfulness. Paul gives a similar charge in Ephesians 5:15–16: “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time.” That is a call to prudence. We are to pay attention to how we live, how we spend our days, and how we steward the opportunities God gives. Prudence draws us closer to Christ by moving us beyond surface-level obedience. It asks us to bring our motives, priorities, decisions, and plans under His lordship. Why Financial Rules Are Not Enough Financial rules can be helpful. Budgets, savings goals, debt repayment plans, and investment strategies all have their place. But rules alone cannot produce faithful stewardship. God is not merely after outward compliance. He desires fellowship with His people. Dr. Forster illustrated this by pointing to human relationships. We would never say in our families or friendships that motives do not matter as long as someone does the right thing. A parent does not merely want a child to obey externally while remaining distant, resentful, or unchanged inwardly. The same is true in our relationship with God. If we are only asking, “What is the minimum I have to do with my money to feel like I've done my duty?” we are missing the deeper invitation. God calls us to see all that we have as His and to ask how we can use it for His purposes. That kind of stewardship is not mechanical. It is worshipful. Wisdom in Action Prudence is wisdom in action. It is the virtue that helps us choose the right means to faithfully pursue God's ends. As Christians, we do not manage money merely to become more efficient, comfortable, or secure. We manage what God has entrusted to us because He is Lord over all of life. That means our financial decisions are never just financial. They are spiritual. They reveal what we value, what we trust, and what kind of people we are becoming. And by God's grace, prudence helps us become stewards who do not merely know what is right, but who increasingly learn to walk in wisdom. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Last year, I sold gold nuggets on eBay for about $7,000 and received a 1099. When I filed my taxes, I paid tax on the full amount, even though eBay charged more than $1,000 in seller fees. Once I receive my refund, can my tax preparer file an amended return so those fees are deducted? Several years ago, my son and daughter-in-law borrowed about $6,500 from us to build a tiny house. They're now selling it at a loss and using the proceeds to repay us, with about a $3,000 net loss overall. Are there any sales tax or income tax consequences for them or for us, or is this simply a personal loss? I recently tried to pay in cash, but the business said they couldn't make change and would have to keep the difference, which pushed me to use a card. Then I had a conversation with someone interested in Bitcoin. As Christians, how should we think about digital money, Bitcoin, and the move away from cash? What's the wisest way to approach it? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis Christian Investing Council (CIC) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

Psalm 92:14 says of the righteous, “They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green.” That's a beautiful picture of faithfulness across every season of life. And it gives us an important reminder: when it comes to retirement, Scripture invites us to think beyond escape. For many people, retirement is pictured as the finish line. Work hard, save diligently, invest wisely, and one day you'll finally arrive at a season of leisure—no alarm clocks, no deadlines, no demands. And after decades of work, rest is a good gift. There's nothing wrong with enjoying a slower pace, spending more time with family, traveling, or having more flexibility in your schedule. But Scripture gives us a deeper vision for our later years. Retirement may change the rhythm of our lives, but it does not end our calling as stewards. When Retirement Feels Disorienting Many people reach retirement and find themselves asking, “Now what?” Without the familiar structure of work, the transition can feel surprisingly difficult. For years, your calendar, responsibilities, relationships, and even your sense of purpose may have been shaped by your vocation. When that changes, it can feel like something has been lost. But in God's kingdom, no season is wasted. Retirement may bring changes in schedule, income, health, energy, and responsibility. But it also brings new opportunities to serve, invest in others, and bear fruit in ways that may not have been possible during busier working years. That's why the question is not simply “What am I retiring from?” The better question is, “What am I now free to do for the glory of God?” Moving From Labor to Legacy We see a helpful picture of this in Numbers 8. The Levites were instructed to begin their service in the tabernacle at age 25 and then transition at age 50. But they didn't stop serving altogether. They stepped back from certain forms of labor, but they continued to assist and minister to their brothers. In other words, they didn't retire from purpose. They moved from labor into legacy. That's a helpful way to think about our later years. As we age, certain types of work may no longer be possible. Energy changes. Capacity changes. Responsibilities change. But our purpose in God's kingdom does not expire. The same hands that once built, typed, managed, served, or led can now mentor, teach, encourage, pray, and support. The same heart that once poured itself into a career can now pour itself into people. Maybe that means volunteering with a ministry that reflects your passions. Maybe it means mentoring young professionals or young parents. Maybe it means serving more faithfully in your church, caring for aging parents, helping with grandchildren, or simply being more available to encourage others. Whatever the expression, the heart of stewardship remains the same: offering your time, wisdom, experience, and resources for the glory of God. Faithful Presence Matters Think of Simeon and Anna in Luke 2. Both were advanced in years, and yet both were living with expectancy and devotion. Simeon was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel. Anna worshiped with fasting and prayer, night and day. Their lives remind us that faithful presence is a powerful gift. God does not retire His servants. He repurposes them. That does not mean retirement has to be frantic or overfilled. This is not about proving your value through constant activity. In God's economy, usefulness is not measured by productivity, but by faithfulness. That's a word many of us need to hear. Our culture often measures significance by title, output, income, and visible achievement. But God sees differently. He sees the quiet prayer, the faithful encouragement, the wisdom shared across the table, the hospitality, the generosity, and the steady presence in the life of a child, a neighbor, a church member, or a younger believer. Those things may not always make headlines, but they matter deeply in the kingdom of God. Stewarding the Freedom Retirement Brings If you're approaching retirement, one of the wisest questions you can ask is not merely “What am I done with?” but “What am I now free to do?” And if you're already retired, perhaps today is an opportunity to revisit that question. What experience has God entrusted to you? What wisdom has He formed in you? What time do you have now that you didn't have before? What relationships could be strengthened? What people could be encouraged? What ministry could be supported? Those are not leftovers. They are stewardship opportunities. Retirement may look different from your working years, but it is no less important. In fact, it may become one of the most spiritually rich chapters of your life if you choose to steward it well. So don't simply retire from something. Retire to something. Retire to deeper fellowship with Christ. Retire to greater availability for others. Retire to prayer, encouragement, generosity, service, and wisdom. Retire to a life that continues to bear fruit. Our Ultimate Treasure Our devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship, is designed to help you slow down, open God's Word, and consider what it means to treasure Christ above all else in every season of life. You can place your order today at FaithFi.com/Shop. And if you'd like to go through it with your church or small group, we offer bulk discounts. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm retiring from my government job on July 31 and have money in the TSP. Should I leave it there, roll it into a traditional IRA, or consider a Roth IRA? I'd also like to take some cash out for home repairs. What's the wisest way to handle this? A few months ago, the company managing my retirement fund had a data breach, so I signed up for two years of free monitoring through Kroll. Now my bank has notified me of another breach and is offering 12 months of free monitoring through CyEx. Is CyEx reputable, and is it okay to have two different monitoring services at the same time? I lost my job yesterday after nearly 10 years. I'm 70 and already receiving Social Security, while my wife is 64 and not yet eligible for Medicare. I have a 401(k) and stock share accounts from my former employer, along with a rollover IRA I opened years ago. Given our income and health insurance situation, should I roll those accounts into my existing IRA? I own some individual stocks that are essentially worthless. I placed a sell order at about half a cent, but no one is buying. What should I do with these shares, and how can I properly document the loss for tax purposes? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM) Healthcare.gov AnnualCreditReport.com | Credit Karma Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As our nation celebrates Independence Day and marks the 250th anniversary of our founding, it's worth pausing to thank God for the freedoms we enjoy. We have the freedom to worship, work, give, speak, serve, and live with opportunities many people around the world do not have. Those are gifts worth receiving with gratitude. But Scripture points us to a freedom even deeper than national liberty. For the Christian, freedom is not simply the ability to do whatever we want. It is not the removal of all restraint, and it is certainly not permission to live for ourselves. Biblical freedom is the freedom Christ gives us from the power of sin so that we can love God and serve others. Jesus says in John 8:36, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” That is the deepest freedom any person can know: freedom from condemnation, freedom from slavery to sin, and freedom from the false masters that promise life but cannot give it. Freedom Is Something We Steward The apostle Paul writes in Galatians 5:1, “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” But later in that same chapter, Paul helps us understand what Christian freedom is for. Galatians 5:13 says, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” That is important. Freedom is not merely something we possess. It is something we steward. Peter says it this way in 1 Peter 2:16: “Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.” Christian freedom is not the freedom to be ruled by worldly desires. It is the freedom to no longer be ruled by them. It is the freedom to say no to sin, no to selfishness, no to the world's definition of the good life, and yes to God. And that has everything to do with the way we handle money. True Financial Freedom True financial freedom is not measured by what we have, but by what no longer has a hold on us. We may say we are free, but fear can still control our decisions. Comparison can still shape our spending. Comfort can still become our highest goal. Accumulation can still feel like our source of security. The desire for control can still keep our hands closed, even as God invites us to trust Him. That is why Jesus says in Matthew 6:24, “No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve God and money.” Money is a good tool, but a terrible master. It can be received with gratitude, managed with wisdom, and used for love of neighbor. But when it becomes our master, it distorts everything and leaves us empty. As evangelist Billy Sunday once said, “The fellow that has no money is poor. The fellow who has nothing but money is poorer still.” Free from the Love of Money Hebrews 13:5 gives us a beautiful picture of financial freedom: “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have.” Why can we live that way? Because the verse continues, “for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.'” Contentment is possible because God is present. Generosity is possible because God provides. Wisdom is possible because God owns it all. And open-handed living is possible because Christ has set us free. That does not mean financial stewardship is always easy. Many people are carrying real burdens—debt, rising expenses, medical bills, job uncertainty, or the pressure of providing for a family. But even in those places, Christ invites us into a deeper freedom: not freedom from every difficulty, but freedom from fear as our master. We belong to the One who will never leave us or forsake us. Living with Open Hands So this Fourth of July weekend, let's thank God for the freedoms we enjoy. But let's also ask Him for a deeper freedom: the freedom to no longer be ruled by fear, greed, comparison, or control. In Christ, we are free to love God. Free to serve our neighbor. Free to use money as a tool for His purposes. Free to live with open hands because our treasure is secure in Him. That is the heart of everything we do here at FaithFi. We exist to help Christians see God as their ultimate treasure so they can manage God's money God's way. If this message has encouraged you, we invite you to become a FaithFi Partner. When you give $35 a month or $400 a year, your support helps share biblical wisdom with millions of people through this radio broadcast, podcast, website, app, magazine, and studies.  You can become a partner today at FaithFi.com/Give. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My wife and I are nearing retirement and planning a home addition. We have about $140,000 set aside and no debt, but we also have a HELOC available. Should we use the HELOC for the project, or would it be better to borrow against my 401(k)? We're considering moving from Indiana to Illinois. My current home is worth about $235,000, and I owe about $70,000. We found a home in a high-demand area that may sell quickly, but our house isn't on the market yet. How can we move forward without taking on too much financial risk? My mother-in-law passed away and left an estate that includes a house and retirement investments. There are several siblings, and the bank wants each sibling's information so it can issue checks directly to us. I thought the executor was responsible for distributing assets. Why would the bank pay each sibling directly instead? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In The Screwtape Letters, C.S. Lewis wrote, “Prosperity knits a man to the world. He feels that he is finding his place in it, while really it is finding its place in him.” That is a sobering warning. Prosperity can be a blessing from God, but it becomes dangerous when it begins to shape our identity. Wealth itself is not the problem. The danger comes when our possessions begin to speak for us—when they become a way of saying, Look how successful I am. Look how secure I am. Look how important I've become. That temptation is not new. We see it clearly in the life of King Hezekiah. Hezekiah's Moment of Testing Hezekiah was one of Judah's better kings. Scripture tells us he trusted in the Lord, removed idols, and led the people back toward faithful worship. When Jerusalem was threatened by Assyria, Hezekiah prayed, and God miraculously delivered the city. Around that same time, Hezekiah became gravely ill. Once again, God showed him mercy and extended his life by fifteen years. So Hezekiah had much to testify about. He had seen God's deliverance. He had received God's mercy. He had literally been spared from death. But then came a test. 2 Kings 20 tells us that envoys arrived from Babylon after hearing about Hezekiah's illness. They brought letters and a gift, and Hezekiah welcomed them. Verse 13 says, “And Hezekiah welcomed them, and he showed them all his treasure house, the silver, the gold, the spices, the precious oil, his armory, all that was found in his storehouses. There was nothing in his house or in all his realm that Hezekiah did not show them.” There was nothing he did not show them. Hezekiah had a golden opportunity to point these visitors to the God who had healed and delivered him. Instead, he opened his vault. When Wealth Becomes Our Testimony Hezekiah's failure was not that he had treasure. His failure was that he magnified what he owned rather than the God who gave it. His wealth became his testimony. Later, the prophet Isaiah came to Hezekiah and asked a piercing question: “What have they seen in your house?” Hezekiah answered, “They have seen all that is in my house; there is nothing in my storehouses that I did not show them.” Isaiah's response was sobering. The very wealth Hezekiah had displayed would one day be carried off to Babylon. It is a powerful warning for us. Hezekiah treated God's provision as a monument to his own success. He forgot that everything in his storehouses had first been entrusted to him by the Lord. Wealth becomes spiritually dangerous the moment we look at what we have and say, “Look what I built,” instead of, “Look what God has done.” The Better Boast Jeremiah 9:23 says, “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches.” That verse names three things people have always been tempted to trust: intelligence, influence, and wealth. We are drawn to whatever makes us feel strong, secure, or significant. But the next verse gives us a better boast: “But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me.” That is the only boast that lasts. Not what we own. Not what we earn. Not what we build. Not what others think of us. Our true boast is that we know the Lord—the God of steadfast love, justice, and righteousness. Is Wealth Creeping Into Your Identity? So what does Hezekiah's story mean for us as modern-day stewards? First, we should ask whether wealth has begun creeping into our identity.  There is nothing wrong with enjoying God's provision. Scripture teaches us to receive His gifts with gratitude. But provision should lead us toward worship, humility, and generosity—not self-importance. When we begin to believe that our possessions prove our worth, success, or security, we are no longer simply using wealth. We are allowing it to define us. That is a dangerous place for the heart. What Are Your Possessions Pointing To? Second, we should ask what our possessions are pointing to. A home, a car, a vacation, a wardrobe, or a lifestyle can easily become a subtle way of saying, “Look at me.” We may not say it out loud, but our hearts can still use possessions to seek approval, admiration, or status. Faithful stewardship flips the script. Instead of saying, “Look what I have,” it says, “Everything I have has been entrusted to me by God.” That shift changes how we hold our possessions. We can enjoy them without worshiping them. We can use them without needing them to prove something about us. We can share them because they were never truly ours to begin with. Practice Hidden Faithfulness Third, we should practice hidden faithfulness. In Matthew 6, Jesus warns against doing righteous things in order to be praised by others. Whether giving, praying, or fasting, He calls His people away from performance and toward sincerity before the Father. That principle applies to stewardship, too. Faithfulness is not about being seen as generous, successful, disciplined, or impressive. It is about honoring God with what He has entrusted to us. Sometimes the healthiest stewardship happens quietly: a gift no one knows about, a sacrifice no one applauds, a wise decision no one sees, or a generous act that never becomes a story we tell about ourselves. Hidden faithfulness helps loosen the grip of pride. What Do You Have That You Did Not Receive? The apostle Paul brings all of this into perspective in 1 Corinthians 4:7 when he asks, “What do you have that you did not receive?” That question is a safeguard for the soul. Your income, abilities, opportunities, possessions, influence, and resources are all gifts. Yes, we work. Yes, we plan. Yes, we make decisions. But underneath every good thing we have is the kindness and provision of God. Wealth is a tool, not a trophy. It is a gift, but it is not our glory. So if we are going to boast, may we boast in the One who gave it all to us. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My mom is 80, and since my dad passed away, she's mostly just signed whatever her longtime financial advisor puts in front of her. I've seen some red flags, including last-minute estate changes involving my brother and me and long-term care insurance she may not need. What warning signs should I watch for, and how can I help protect her while still respecting her wishes? We have a HELOC that matures about two years after our mortgage is paid off. The bank told us we should always keep a HELOC open because it can help protect against someone fraudulently borrowing against our home. Is that true, or is the bank just encouraging us to keep a product we don't need? I'm trying to understand how a trust works. If I buy a $1 million life insurance policy and put it in a trust, can I borrow from or withdraw money from that trust? How does that work, and how would I set one up? I'm 50 and getting a late start on retirement. I'm contributing enough to get my company's 6% match, have a small Roth from a previous job, and about $5,000–$6,000 in emergency savings. I have about $200 extra each month. Should I keep building my emergency fund, invest more for retirement, or do something else? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

Debt always costs more than the interest rate. It can affect your budget, your marriage, your margin, and even your ability to respond freely when God leads. That doesn't mean borrowing is always wrong. But it does mean Christians should approach debt carefully, prayerfully, and with wisdom. Ron Blue, a pioneer in biblically wise financial planning and co-founder of Kingdom Advisors, joined the show today to discuss principles from his article, “Five Rules for Borrowing,” featured in the latest issue of our Faithful Steward magazine. Here are several key questions to ask before taking on debt. Will This Debt Produce More Value Than It Costs? Ron's first rule is that borrowing always mortgages the future. When you borrow money today, you commit future income to yesterday's decision. That's why it's important to consider whether the economic return is greater than the economic cost. In some cases, borrowing may help you purchase something that can grow in value or produce long-term benefits, such as a home or a business. But that is very different from borrowing for things that immediately decline in value. Credit cards and auto loans are common examples. While using a credit card for convenience and paying it off every month can be reasonable, carrying credit card debt to fund consumption is a dangerous pattern. As Ron put it, borrowing to build wealth is one thing. Borrowing for something that steadily loses value is another. That road can quickly lead to bondage. Am I Presuming Upon the Future? The second rule is simple but often overlooked: never presume upon the future. When you borrow, you are making an assumption about tomorrow. You assume your income will continue. You assume your health will remain stable. You assume your circumstances will allow you to repay what you owe. But life does not always unfold the way we expect. Jobs change. Markets shift. Health challenges come. Unexpected expenses arise. That's why every borrowing decision needs a clear repayment plan. Before taking on debt, ask, “How will I pay this back?” If the answer depends on overly optimistic assumptions, it may be wise to pause. Borrowing without a sure path to repayment can create unnecessary pressure and reduce financial flexibility. Are We in Full Agreement as Husband and Wife? Debt not only affects a balance sheet. It affects the whole household. That is why Ron's third rule is that spouses should be in full agreement before any borrowing takes place. Husbands and wives often think differently about money. They may have different experiences, fears, preferences, and priorities. One spouse may be more comfortable with risk, while the other feels the weight of debt more deeply. Those differences are not necessarily wrong. In fact, they can be a gift. Ron reminds couples that God does not give us a spouse to frustrate us, but to complete us. When spouses slow down, listen well, and work through disagreements, they often make wiser decisions together than either would make alone. But when borrowing decisions are made without unity, they can create resentment, tension, and a growing sore spot in the marriage. Before taking on debt, couples should ask: “Are we truly united in this decision?” Have I Given God an Opportunity to Provide? Ron's fourth principle may be the most surprising: never deny God an opportunity to provide. Before borrowing, it is worth asking: Have I prayed about this? Have I asked God for wisdom? Have I considered whether there may be another way to meet this need? Sometimes borrowing feels like the fastest solution. But speed is not always the same as wisdom. God may provide through delayed timing, a different opportunity, a generous gift, a creative solution, or simply a change in desire. He may also confirm that borrowing is the right path. But the key is not to leave Him out of the decision. Wise stewardship means bringing our needs before the Lord and giving Him room to lead. Borrow Carefully, Prayerfully, and Wisely Debt is not always sinful, but it is never neutral. It places a claim on future income and can shape a household's freedom, peace, and flexibility. Before you borrow, ask whether the debt makes economic sense, whether you are presuming upon tomorrow, whether you and your spouse are in agreement, and whether you have given God an opportunity to provide. For Ron Blue's full article, “Five Rules for Borrowing,” become a FaithFi Partner at FaithFi.com/Give. FaithFi Partners receive Faithful Steward magazine every quarter, along with other resources to help them integrate faith and financial decisions for the glory of God. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I have a retirement account with a broker, and I've asked him about investing in line with biblical values. He asked me for about five screening filters. I thought of pro-life/anti-abortion, but what other filters would you suggest for faith-based investing? I have a two-part question about charitable giving. What tax-advantaged giving options are available—such as donor-advised funds—and at what ages can someone use each one? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Five Rules for Borrowing by Ron Blue (Article in Faithful Steward, Issue 6) National Christian Foundation (NCF) OneAscent | Timothy Plan | Eventide | Praxis | Guidestone Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

1 Corinthians 4:2 says, “Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” Faithful stewardship does not happen by accident. The choices we make with money can either create unnecessary pressure or help us manage God's resources with wisdom, margin, and faithfulness. Here are six financial choices that can help us steward well what God has entrusted to us. 1. Spend With a Plan Proverbs 27:23 says, “Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds.” For us, that means knowing what is coming in, what is going out, and whether our spending reflects our values. Without a plan, money tends to drift. A budget helps us practice faithfulness with what God has provided. A spending plan is not about restriction for its own sake. It is about clarity. It helps us make decisions with purpose instead of simply reacting to whatever feels urgent in the moment. 2. Choose the Right Car for Your Budget Most of us need reliable transportation. We need to get from point A to point B safely. But it is easy to confuse reliable transportation with a vehicle that strains the budget. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average new vehicle transaction price was more than $49,000. Experian reports that the average monthly payment for a new vehicle reached $770. And that is before insurance, fuel, maintenance, repairs, and depreciation. At FaithFi, we generally prefer being free and clear of car debt when possible. That may mean buying used, driving a car longer, or choosing function over status. The point is not to impress others with what we drive. The goal is to get where we need to go safely and wisely. 3. Count the Cost Before Taking on Debt Proverbs 22:7 says, “The borrower is the slave of the lender.” That does not mean all borrowing is sinful. But borrowing should never be treated casually. If we go into debt, we should make sure the economic benefit outweighs the cost. The question is not simply, “Can I afford the payment?” A better question is, “Will this strengthen my financial position, or will it create more pressure later?” Debt often makes today feel easier while making tomorrow more difficult. Wise stewardship requires us to look beyond the monthly payment and consider the long-term cost. 4. Prepare for the Unexpected Cars break down. Medical bills come. Jobs change. Homes need repairs. Proverbs 21:20 says, “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.” Saving is not hoarding when it is done with humility and wisdom. An emergency fund can help us avoid high-interest debt and make decisions prayerfully rather than desperately. Preparedness does not mean we are trusting in money instead of God. It means we are stewarding what He has provided so we can respond wisely when needs arise. 5. Choose Housing That Leaves Margin Homeownership can be a worthy goal, but owning a home is not the definition of financial faithfulness. Renting is not a waste when it provides affordable shelter and flexibility. The danger comes when we feel pressured to buy simply to say we have “made it.” If the payment is too large, we may become house poor—owning a home but lacking margin for giving, saving, repairs, utilities, food, transportation, and other necessities. We typically recommend keeping housing costs at 25-30% of take-home pay. We also generally recommend a 20% down payment when possible. But the goal is not simply to get into a house. The goal is to maintain affordable shelter and utilities while stewarding the rest of the budget. Recent housing data shows why this matters. A typical family earning the national median income needed about 32% of its income to cover the mortgage payment on a median-priced home. If homeownership is possible within wise limits, that is wonderful. But if renting allows you to maintain margin and faithfulness, do not despise it. 6. Make the Most of a Workplace Retirement Match Investing may not feel urgent when there are bills to pay today. But if your employer offers a retirement match, failing to contribute enough to receive it may leave part of your compensation unused. This is not about trusting in wealth for security. 1 Timothy 6:17 reminds us not to set our hopes “on the uncertainty of riches, but on God.” But trusting God does not mean ignoring wise preparation. If a workplace match is available, it can be a practical opportunity to steward well what has been provided through your employment. Start With Honesty and Surrender So where do we begin? Not with guilt or fear, but with honesty and surrender. Stewardship means being responsible in both the big and small financial decisions because everything we have belongs to God. That includes the budget, the car, the debt decision, the emergency fund, the housing payment, and the retirement match. None of these choices is isolated. Together, they shape how we manage what God has entrusted to us. If you need help setting up a budget, tracking your spending, or creating a plan, check out the FaithFi app at FaithFi.com/App. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 70, and my husband is 71. He's been self-employed for most of our marriage, and we've never really invested or saved much for retirement. We don't have a 401(k), and if we retired, we'd mostly rely on Social Security and would need to cut back significantly. My husband doesn't really want to retire, but I feel like we haven't been faithful stewards and need to start doing something. Where should we begin? My wife passed away in December, and I may be receiving life insurance proceeds. If I deposit that money into my checking account, will it affect my Social Security benefits in any way? I have to take required minimum distributions from my IRA each year. I've heard that if I give to charity directly from my IRA, it can reduce the taxable amount of my RMD. Is that correct, and is there a specific way I need to do that? I'm almost 70 and in a blended family. The money I earned and invested before marriage is separate from my husband and will go to my daughters. After I moved investments between firms and lost money, my current advisor put me into three annuities. I want security, wise stewardship, and a way to leave something for my children, but I'm confused about the annuities, taxes, and withdrawals from these pre-tax IRA accounts. I'd also like a Certified Kingdom Advisor to review my situation. What should I do? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

Credit card rewards can look like easy money, especially when you hear stories of people earning flights, hotel stays, and cash bonuses simply by opening new cards. But one increasingly popular strategy—known as credit card churning—may carry more risk than reward. As Christians, we're called to think about financial tools with wisdom, not just ask whether something is technically allowed or potentially profitable. The better question is this: Does this help me become a more faithful steward of what God has entrusted to me? What Is Credit Card Churning? Credit card churning is the practice of opening new credit cards primarily to earn sign-up bonuses. A person opens a card, spends enough to qualify for the bonus, collects the reward, and then moves on to the next offer. On the surface, it may sound clever. After all, if a card offers hundreds of dollars in rewards, why not take advantage of it? But for most people, the strategy is far more complicated than it appears. Opening multiple credit cards can trigger hard inquiries on your credit report. It can reduce the average age of your accounts. It can create more payment due dates to manage. And many card issuers have become more restrictive with these offers than they were in years past. Some companies limit how often you can receive a bonus. Others may claw back rewards if they believe the system has been abused. And even when everything goes according to plan, one missed payment, one overlooked annual fee, or one spending requirement that encourages unnecessary purchases can quickly erase the benefit. For most people, it is simply more effort than it is worth. A simpler setup—a reliable rewards card, a debit card, and perhaps a business card if needed—will meet most needs without adding unnecessary risk. Not All Rewards Are Unwise That does not mean all credit card rewards are unwise. If someone pays the balance in full every month, tracks spending carefully, and already lives within a healthy budget, rewards can provide real value. A cash-back card may reduce everyday expenses. A travel card may help with a planned trip. And credit cards often provide stronger fraud protections than debit cards. But here is the key: rewards should enhance good financial habits, not compensate for weak ones. A rewards card is not a solution for overspending. It is not a substitute for a budget. And it should never become an excuse to buy more than you planned simply to earn points. If you carry a balance, the interest will almost always outweigh the rewards. When Does It Make Sense to Open a Credit Card? It may make sense to open a credit card when someone has already demonstrated financial consistency. That means they pay bills on time. They track their spending. They are not carrying consumer debt. They have a stable plan for their money. In that context, a credit card may help build credit history and provide useful benefits. But it is wise to be cautious about opening a new card if you are already carrying credit card debt, struggling to manage monthly expenses, recovering from missed payments, or tempted to spend more because of rewards. The issue is not simply whether a credit card is good or bad. The issue is whether it supports faithfulness—or creates unnecessary temptation and complexity. Is There a Moral Concern With Credit Card Rewards? Some argue that rewards benefit financially healthy cardholders at the expense of those in debt. Others point out that rewards are often funded through merchant fees, which businesses agree to pay when they accept cards. There is a moral dimension worth considering, but we should be careful not to oversimplify it. Rewards are generally tied to creditworthiness and financial behavior. Many households at a variety of income levels can qualify for rewards by building strong habits, maintaining a good credit score, and using credit responsibly. So the better focus is not shaming someone for receiving rewards. It is helping more people develop the wisdom and discipline to use financial tools responsibly. Churning, Personality, and the Pull of Quick Gain Credit card churning also reveals how personality shapes financial decisions. Some people love optimization. They enjoy spreadsheets, rules, deadlines, and the feeling of “winning the game.” Others need simplicity and predictability. But personality does not determine financial faithfulness. Habits do. Proverbs 21:5 says, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” Credit card churning often appeals to the hasty part of us—the part that wants quick gain, clever advantage, and immediate reward. But Scripture calls us to something better: diligence, patience, contentment, and faithful stewardship. A Better Question to Ask Before chasing the next bonus, ask a better question: Does this help me become a more faithful steward of what God has entrusted to me? If the answer is no, it may be best to leave the reward on the table and choose the freedom of simplicity instead. The best financial strategy is not the one that squeezes every possible point out of the system. It is the one that helps you live faithfully, give generously, avoid bondage, and remember that everything you have belongs to God. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I sold my camper last year and put $5,000 into a regular savings account, earning very little interest. Since this is basically my only emergency fund, I'd like to keep it liquid but earn more. How can I find a higher-interest savings account with no penalties for accessing the money? I'm 78 and trying to decide when and how to buy a safer car. My granddaughter needs my current car, and I have about $30,000 in local bank accounts and $226,000 in an IRA. Should I buy new or used, use savings, withdraw from my IRA, finance it, or possibly borrow against myself? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) AdelFi Christian Banking Bankrate | NerdWallet Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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 on Karl and Crew, we launched our weekly theme, “Dependence on God.” Rob West joined us to discuss the reasons churches collect money. He acknowledged the ways giving has sometimes been misused, while explaining how biblical generosity supports the church's work, reflects our trust in God, and enables believers to participate in His kingdom mission. Rob is the host of the radio program "Faith & Finance Live," CEO of Kingdom Advisors, and author of "Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship." We also welcomed Rebecca McLaughlin, who addressed difficult questions often raised against Christianity. She explained how biblical teachings on sexuality, love, marriage, and the role of women are rooted in God’s design and ultimately point to Jesus’ love for His people. Rebecca holds a theology degree from Oak Hill Seminary and is the author of "Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest Religion." Additionally, Todd Nettleton joined us to discuss the Day of the Christian Martyr, sharing stories of believers and modern persecuted Christians who have counted the cost of following Jesus. He challenged us to consider what we are willing to risk for the gospel. Todd is the Vice President for Message for the Voice of the Martyrs–USA and is the host of "The Voice of the Martyrs Radio", where he serves as a voice for persecuted Christians. You can listen to the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Todd Nettleton [ 05:50 ]Rob West [ 17:10 ]Rebecca McLaughlin [ 27:00 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on Karl and Crew, we launched our weekly theme, “Dependence on God.” Rob West joined us to discuss the reasons churches collect money. He acknowledged the ways giving has sometimes been misused, while explaining how biblical generosity supports the church's work, reflects our trust in God, and enables believers to participate in His kingdom mission. Rob is the host of the radio program "Faith & Finance Live," CEO of Kingdom Advisors, and author of "Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship." We also welcomed Rebecca McLaughlin, who addressed difficult questions often raised against Christianity. She explained how biblical teachings on sexuality, love, marriage, and the role of women are rooted in God’s design and ultimately point to Jesus’ love for His people. Rebecca holds a theology degree from Oak Hill Seminary and is the author of "Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest Religion." Additionally, Todd Nettleton joined us to discuss the Day of the Christian Martyr, sharing stories of believers and modern persecuted Christians who have counted the cost of following Jesus. He challenged us to consider what we are willing to risk for the gospel. Todd is the Vice President for Message for the Voice of the Martyrs–USA and is the host of "The Voice of the Martyrs Radio", where he serves as a voice for persecuted Christians. You can listen to the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Todd Nettleton [ 05:50 ]Rob West [ 17:10 ]Rebecca McLaughlin [ 27:00 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on Karl and Crew, we launched our weekly theme, “Dependence on God.” Rob West joined us to discuss the reasons churches collect money. He acknowledged the ways giving has sometimes been misused, while explaining how biblical generosity supports the church's work, reflects our trust in God, and enables believers to participate in His kingdom mission. Rob is the host of the radio program "Faith & Finance Live," CEO of Kingdom Advisors, and author of "Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship." We also welcomed Rebecca McLaughlin, who addressed difficult questions often raised against Christianity. She explained how biblical teachings on sexuality, love, marriage, and the role of women are rooted in God’s design and ultimately point to Jesus’ love for His people. Rebecca holds a theology degree from Oak Hill Seminary and is the author of "Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest Religion." Additionally, Todd Nettleton joined us to discuss the Day of the Christian Martyr, sharing stories of believers and modern persecuted Christians who have counted the cost of following Jesus. He challenged us to consider what we are willing to risk for the gospel. Todd is the Vice President for Message for the Voice of the Martyrs–USA and is the host of "The Voice of the Martyrs Radio", where he serves as a voice for persecuted Christians. You can listen to the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Todd Nettleton [ 05:50 ]Rob West [ 17:10 ]Rebecca McLaughlin [ 27:00 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on Karl and Crew, we launched our weekly theme, “Dependence on God.” Rob West joined us to discuss the reasons churches collect money. He acknowledged the ways giving has sometimes been misused, while explaining how biblical generosity supports the church's work, reflects our trust in God, and enables believers to participate in His kingdom mission. Rob is the host of the radio program "Faith & Finance Live," CEO of Kingdom Advisors, and author of "Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship." We also welcomed Rebecca McLaughlin, who addressed difficult questions often raised against Christianity. She explained how biblical teachings on sexuality, love, marriage, and the role of women are rooted in God’s design and ultimately point to Jesus’ love for His people. Rebecca holds a theology degree from Oak Hill Seminary and is the author of "Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest Religion." Additionally, Todd Nettleton joined us to discuss the Day of the Christian Martyr, sharing stories of believers and modern persecuted Christians who have counted the cost of following Jesus. He challenged us to consider what we are willing to risk for the gospel. Todd is the Vice President for Message for the Voice of the Martyrs–USA and is the host of "The Voice of the Martyrs Radio", where he serves as a voice for persecuted Christians. You can listen to the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Todd Nettleton [ 05:50 ]Rob West [ 17:10 ]Rebecca McLaughlin [ 27:00 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on Karl and Crew, we launched our weekly theme, “Dependence on God.” Rob West joined us to discuss the reasons churches collect money. He acknowledged the ways giving has sometimes been misused, while explaining how biblical generosity supports the church's work, reflects our trust in God, and enables believers to participate in His kingdom mission. Rob is the host of the radio program "Faith & Finance Live," CEO of Kingdom Advisors, and author of "Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship." We also welcomed Rebecca McLaughlin, who addressed difficult questions often raised against Christianity. She explained how biblical teachings on sexuality, love, marriage, and the role of women are rooted in God’s design and ultimately point to Jesus’ love for His people. Rebecca holds a theology degree from Oak Hill Seminary and is the author of "Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest Religion." Additionally, Todd Nettleton joined us to discuss the Day of the Christian Martyr, sharing stories of believers and modern persecuted Christians who have counted the cost of following Jesus. He challenged us to consider what we are willing to risk for the gospel. Todd is the Vice President for Message for the Voice of the Martyrs–USA and is the host of "The Voice of the Martyrs Radio", where he serves as a voice for persecuted Christians. You can listen to the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Todd Nettleton [ 05:50 ]Rob West [ 17:10 ]Rebecca McLaughlin [ 27:00 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on Karl and Crew, we launched our weekly theme, “Dependence on God.” Rob West joined us to discuss the reasons churches collect money. He acknowledged the ways giving has sometimes been misused, while explaining how biblical generosity supports the church's work, reflects our trust in God, and enables believers to participate in His kingdom mission. Rob is the host of the radio program "Faith & Finance Live," CEO of Kingdom Advisors, and author of "Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship." We also welcomed Rebecca McLaughlin, who addressed difficult questions often raised against Christianity. She explained how biblical teachings on sexuality, love, marriage, and the role of women are rooted in God’s design and ultimately point to Jesus’ love for His people. Rebecca holds a theology degree from Oak Hill Seminary and is the author of "Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest Religion." Additionally, Todd Nettleton joined us to discuss the Day of the Christian Martyr, sharing stories of believers and modern persecuted Christians who have counted the cost of following Jesus. He challenged us to consider what we are willing to risk for the gospel. Todd is the Vice President for Message for the Voice of the Martyrs–USA and is the host of "The Voice of the Martyrs Radio", where he serves as a voice for persecuted Christians. You can listen to the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Todd Nettleton [ 05:50 ]Rob West [ 17:10 ]Rebecca McLaughlin [ 27:00 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on Karl and Crew, we launched our weekly theme, “Dependence on God.” Rob West joined us to discuss the reasons churches collect money. He acknowledged the ways giving has sometimes been misused, while explaining how biblical generosity supports the church's work, reflects our trust in God, and enables believers to participate in His kingdom mission. Rob is the host of the radio program "Faith & Finance Live," CEO of Kingdom Advisors, and author of "Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship." We also welcomed Rebecca McLaughlin, who addressed difficult questions often raised against Christianity. She explained how biblical teachings on sexuality, love, marriage, and the role of women are rooted in God’s design and ultimately point to Jesus’ love for His people. Rebecca holds a theology degree from Oak Hill Seminary and is the author of "Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest Religion." Additionally, Todd Nettleton joined us to discuss the Day of the Christian Martyr, sharing stories of believers and modern persecuted Christians who have counted the cost of following Jesus. He challenged us to consider what we are willing to risk for the gospel. Todd is the Vice President for Message for the Voice of the Martyrs–USA and is the host of "The Voice of the Martyrs Radio", where he serves as a voice for persecuted Christians. You can listen to the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Todd Nettleton [ 05:50 ]Rob West [ 17:10 ]Rebecca McLaughlin [ 27:00 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you know whether your retirement plan is on track, or are you simply hoping it is? Whether retirement is years away or just around the corner, it's wise to pause and take a closer look at your plan today. A retirement checkup can help you know where you stand, identify potential gaps, and make adjustments before small issues become major problems. Many people know they should be saving, but they're less certain whether they're saving enough. That's where a thoughtful review can bring clarity—not just about the numbers, but about faithful stewardship in the season ahead. Know Your Retirement Savings Target No single rule of thumb fits everyone. Your retirement goal depends on many factors, including when you retire, how long you live, your lifestyle, your health, your generosity goals, and whether you'll have income from Social Security, a pension, rental property, or part-time work. Still, benchmarks can be helpful. As a starting point, one common guideline is to aim for about 10-12 times your income by age 67. The point isn't to become discouraged if you're behind. The point is to know where you stand. Once you have a clearer picture, you can make wise adjustments. Know Your Retirement Spending Number Your spending number may be even more important than your savings balance. A million dollars can be plenty for one household and not nearly enough for another because spending determines how much income your portfolio must produce. Start with your current budget, then consider what may change in retirement. Will your mortgage be paid off? Will travel increase? Will transportation costs go down? Will you support adult children or aging parents? Will you downsize, relocate, or stay where you are? Those questions help you see not only what retirement may cost, but also what kind of stewardship this next season may require. Have a Withdrawal Plan It's also important to think carefully about how much you'll withdraw from your savings each year. A common guideline has been the 4% rule, first developed by financial planner William Bengen. He has since updated his research, suggesting the number may be closer to 4.7% with a more diversified portfolio. Fidelity describes it more broadly as a 4%-5% sustainable withdrawal range. So, if you retire with $500,000, you might begin by withdrawing around $20,000 to $25,000 in the first year, then adjust over time. Of course, this is not a guarantee, and it does not mean you'll never touch the principal. Your actual withdrawal rate should depend on your age, health, investment mix, inflation, market conditions, and whether your essential expenses are covered by guaranteed income. The danger is assuming you can withdraw 8%, 10%, or even 12% from your portfolio every year without consequences. For most retirees, that's not a plan. It's a countdown. Prepare for Health Care Costs Medicare is a blessing, but it doesn't cover everything. Retirees may still face premiums, deductibles, co-pays, prescription costs, dental care, vision care, hearing expenses, and more. Long-term care is a separate issue altogether. Recent estimates suggest that a 65-year-old retiring today may need well over $170,000 for health care costs throughout retirement—and that does not include long-term care. For a married couple, health care becomes a major planning item. That's why it's important to prepare in advance and not assume Medicare will cover every need. Understand Social Security For many retirees, Social Security will be one of the largest sources of guaranteed income. You can claim benefits as early as age 62, but doing so can permanently reduce your monthly benefit by as much as 30%. Delaying past full retirement age until age 70 can increase your benefit by 8% for each full year you wait—up to 24% if your full retirement age is 67. Of course, delaying is not always the right answer. Health, family history, income needs, marital status, and work plans all matter. But because this is often a permanent decision, it's worth looking carefully before you claim. Review Your Investment Allocation As you approach retirement, your portfolio may need to become more conservative. But that doesn't mean moving everything to cash. Retirement may last 20 or 30 years, and inflation can quietly erode your purchasing power over time. A wise allocation should balance the need for stability with the need for continued growth. This is one area where trusted counsel can be especially helpful. A Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®) can help you think through your investments, income needs, and long-term stewardship goals through a biblical lens. Retirement Is Not the End of Stewardship Finally, remember that retirement is not the end of stewardship. Psalm 92 says of the righteous, “They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green” (Psalm 92:14). That's a richer vision than simply withdrawing from work and responsibility. Retirement is not about drifting. It's about faithfulness in a new season. So yes, check the numbers. Know your savings target. Build a realistic spending plan. Prepare for health care. Understand Social Security. Review your investments. But also ask, “Lord, what fruit do You want to grow in this season of my life?” If you'd like help reviewing your retirement plan with an advisor who shares your biblical values, visit FindACKA.com to connect with a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®). On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I've worked at qualifying universities for nearly 10 years under Public Service Loan Forgiveness, but deferments and forbearances kept me from reaching 120 qualifying payments. I now qualify for the buyback program and could pay for about 15–17 missed months to reach forgiveness sooner. Should I do the buyback now or keep making regular payments until I reach 120? I have a home equity loan at 6% with a $32,000 balance and eight years left, and a car loan at 6.09% with a $35,000 balance and six years left. Which should I focus on paying off first? My job is ending soon, and I have only a small amount saved for retirement. I'm about to receive a $16,000 settlement. Given my situation, how should I use or invest that money? I've been with my local bank since 1996, but it's been bought out three times. How do I know when it's time to switch banks, and what should I look for in a new one? I'm turning 73 this August and will need to begin taking RMDs from my IRA based on the end-of-year 2025 balance. I'd like to use Qualified Charitable Distributions to reduce taxable income. When should I make the QCDs so they count toward my RMD? I'm trying to understand fixed indexed annuities. Are they a good option, and what should I consider before using one as an investment? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Christian Credit Counselors Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

It's easy to assume generosity will grow over time. We tell ourselves we'll give more after we earn more, save more, pay off debt, or reach a certain level of financial security. But what if waiting causes us to miss something God wants to do today? That's the question Cody Hobelmann invites us to consider. Cody is a Certified Financial Planner, a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®), and co-founder of the Finish Line Pledge with his brother, Keelan. He also contributed to FaithFi's new field guide, How Much Money Is Enough?—a resource designed to help believers think biblically about setting financial finish lines. For Cody, this isn't merely a financial planning concept. It's personal. Early in his stewardship journey, he believed the best way to serve the Kingdom was to accumulate substantial wealth and give generously later. But over time, God began to reshape that perspective. “I started to wonder,” Cody shared, “what am I missing by not giving more today?” That question gets to the heart of biblical generosity. Giving is not only about transferring money to a worthy cause. It is also about joy, spiritual formation, trust, and eternal impact. The Joy of Giving Now Acts 20:35 says, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” For some believers, generosity begins with the heart. They discover that giving produces a joy that spending and saving cannot replicate. When we give, we step into something larger than ourselves. We participate in the needs, stories, and mission of others. That joy can become contagious. As Cody explained, generosity often draws us into relationships with people and organizations doing meaningful work. We begin to see the impact of our gifts. We share in the purpose of the ministry. We become part of a story God is writing through His people. And the more we experience that joy, the harder it becomes to put generosity off until later. Giving now also allows us to encourage others. Stories of generosity can awaken generosity in someone else. Cody noted that hearing the stories of radically generous givers helped challenge his own assumptions. In the same way, our generosity can become an invitation for others to ask, “What are they experiencing that I'm missing?” Generosity doesn't just meet needs. It multiplies. Generosity as Spiritual Formation Other givers are motivated by what Cody describes as the “soul” dimension of giving. For them, generosity is part of spiritual formation. Giving requires trust. It asks us to surrender something we may feel we have earned, controlled, or secured for ourselves. That first step can be the hardest, because it often exposes what we really believe about God's provision. But like a muscle, generosity grows stronger with practice. At first, giving may feel difficult or like a sacrifice. But as we give consistently, we learn to listen for the Lord's leading and respond with obedience. Over time, generosity becomes less about fearfully letting go and more about joyfully participating in God's work. This is one reason giving now matters. Delayed generosity may preserve our resources, but it can also delay the work God wants to do in our hearts. Through generosity, God loosens our grip on money. He shifts our identity away from what we have, what we earn, or what we can control, and roots it more deeply in Him. Accumulation may give the illusion of safety, but generosity teaches us dependence. Giving becomes a way of saying, “Lord, these resources belong to You. What would You have me do with them?” That kind of prayerful surrender draws us closer to God in a way accumulation never can. The Wisdom of Strategic Giving Generosity is not only emotional or formative. It can also be strategic. Some believers think carefully about impact. They want to steward resources wisely, evaluate outcomes, and give in ways that bear fruit. Cody calls this the “head” dimension of giving. From that perspective, giving now has a practical advantage: it gives us experience. When we give today, we can see what happens. We can learn which ministries are bearing fruit, which need to align with our calling, and where future gifts might have the greatest impact. Cody compares it to planting seeds. Year after year, we learn where the harvest is growing and where to sow next. This kind of giving is not impulsive. It is thoughtful, prayerful, and engaged. Financial planners often talk about the power of compound interest. But Cody points to something even greater: compound impact. A dollar invested may grow over time, but a gift given today may change a life today. And God can do far more with our obedience than we can calculate on a spreadsheet. That doesn't mean every dollar should be given away immediately or that planning for the future is unwise. Scripture commends wisdom, provision, and prudent planning. But it does mean we should be careful not to assume that “later” is always the more faithful option. Sometimes waiting to give can mean delaying the impact God intended for today. Don't Hold Too Tightly Jesus warns in Matthew 6:19-21, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal... For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Earthly resources are temporary. Markets change. Circumstances change. Needs arise. Life is uncertain. Even when we intend to give later, we are not guaranteed we will have the opportunity. That reality is not meant to create fear. It is meant to cultivate a sense of faithful urgency. As Ron Blue has often said, “Do your giving while you're living, so you're knowing where it's going.” There is wisdom in being able to see, participate in, and learn from the impact of generosity while we are still here. Giving now turns temporary resources into lasting Kingdom impact. How Finish Lines Help Us Give Freely One practical way to accelerate generosity is by setting financial finish lines. A lifestyle finish line changes the question from “How much should I give?” to “How much should I keep?” Once we prayerfully define enough for our lifestyle, we are free to ask what God would have us do with the resources beyond that point. A lifetime finish line works similarly. It helps us consider how much is appropriate to accumulate over the course of our lives. When we know what is enough, we can begin dreaming with God about how to deploy His resources for His purposes. Finish lines are not about legalism. They are about freedom. They help us resist the endless pull of accumulation and open our hands to the joy, adventure, and impact of generosity. Take One Step This Week For the person waiting for the “right time” to become more generous, the encouragement is simple: start now. That step does not have to be dramatic. It may be small. It may be quiet. It may be a first act of obedience that stretches your faith just enough to remind you that God can be trusted. But don't wait to be generous. Giving shapes your heart. It deepens your faith. It strengthens your trust in God. And it multiplies Kingdom impact in ways delayed generosity never can. The question is not merely, “How much can I give someday?” The better question may be, “Lord, what would You have me do today?” On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Scripture calls men to provide for their families, but what does that look like today? Is there a minimum income a man should aim for to support a family, and what kind of financial goal or ambition should we encourage young men to pursue? I'm praying about how to advise a friend with over $40,000 in debt. He has small investments and a small business, but the business is declining, and he feels overwhelmed. Would a Christian credit counselor be the right next step? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) 10 Reasons to Give Now Rather Than Later by Cody Hobelmann (Article in Faithful Steward, Issue 6) The Finish Line Pledge Christian Credit Counselors Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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 need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you.” That promise from James 1:5 is a powerful reminder that wisdom is not something we have to manufacture on our own. It is a gift from God, and He invites us to ask for it. When we think about financial decisions, we often turn first to budgets, spreadsheets, calculators, or professional advice. Those tools can be helpful, and wise counsel has an important place in biblical stewardship. But for followers of Christ, wisdom begins with prayer. Sharon Epps, President of Kingdom Advisors, FaithFi's parent organization, joined the show today to talk about inviting God into our financial lives and seeking His guidance with trust and humility. Prayer Reminds Us Whose Money It Is When people think about managing money, prayer may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But Sharon says it should be central to the way believers make financial decisions because we are not ultimately managing our own resources. We are managing God's. She offered a simple illustration: imagine being asked to care for someone else's home while they were away on an extended trip. Would you let them leave without asking for specific instructions about how they wanted things handled? Of course not. In the same way, because everything we have belongs to God, we should want His instruction for how to steward it. Prayer reminds us that we do not have to carry financial decisions alone or rely only on our own understanding. It helps us approach money with dependence, trust, and humility. Prayer also shifts our posture. Instead of trying to control every outcome, we begin to ask what faithfulness looks like with what God has entrusted to us. The Most Powerful Question We Can Ask So what does this look like in everyday life? Sharon says it starts by bringing financial decisions to the Lord before we act. Whether we are deciding how to spend, save, give, invest, or pursue work, prayer gives us the opportunity to seek God's wisdom first. Our friend and mentor Ron Blue has often said that one of the most powerful questions we can ask is: God, what would You have me do with Your money? That question changes everything. It reminds us that money is not merely a tool for personal comfort or security. It is a resource entrusted to us by God for His purposes. Sharon shared a personal example from when she and her husband were praying about their oldest daughter's college tuition. They had not saved enough to pay for her education in full, and they were committed to avoiding debt. As they prayed, God brought something to mind: He had already provided what they needed, but they had mentally set those funds aside for another purpose. Once Sharon and her husband sat down and talked it through, they realized God had shown them an option they had never considered. Prayer did not simply give them peace; it gave them perspective. That is one of the gifts of prayer. Over time, it shapes our desires, priorities, and motives. It trains us to seek God first rather than simply react in the moment. Learning What Is Enough One of the great financial questions every believer must wrestle with is, “How much is enough?” Our culture constantly pushes us to want more. More income. More comfort. More security. More possessions. But Scripture points us toward contentment. Paul writes in Philippians 4:11, “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.” That word learned is important. Contentment does not come naturally. It is formed in us as we walk with Christ and learn to trust Him more deeply. Prayer helps us bring our desires honestly before the Lord. It gives us space to ask whether our financial choices are being driven by needs, wants, fear, comparison, or trust. Sharon pointed to David's prayer in Psalm 139:23-24: “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” That is a fitting prayer for our financial lives as well. We can ask the Lord to search our hearts, reveal our motives, and lead us toward a healthier understanding of what enough really is. And when we become more content with God's provision, we are often freed to become more generous. When the Next Step Is Unclear Many people face financial decisions that feel overwhelming. A career change. A major purchase. A giving decision. A medical bill. A retirement question. A move. A season of uncertainty. When the path is not clear, Sharon's counsel is simple: turn to prayer before you turn to spreadsheets. That does not mean spreadsheets are unimportant. It means they should not be our first refuge. Before we run the numbers, we should ask God for wisdom. We should also seek wise counsel from trusted believers who share our commitment to biblical stewardship. God often guides us through His Word, His Spirit, and His people. And even when the way forward is not perfectly clear, we can trust that God is faithful to guide His people as they seek Him. Financial Decisions as Acts of Trust Prayer turns financial decisions into opportunities to trust God more deeply. It reminds us that God owns it all. It invites Him into the details of our daily lives. It exposes our motives and reshapes our desires. It helps us move from fear to faithfulness, from control to stewardship, and from self-reliance to dependence on the Lord. The next time you face a financial decision, begin with this simple prayer: God, what would You have me do with Your money? And then listen with humility, seek wise counsel, and trust that your generous God delights to give wisdom to those who ask. By the way, finding an advisor who shares your faith and values does not have to be difficult. Visit FindaCKA.com, answer a few questions about what you're looking for, and you'll receive a list of Certified Kingdom Advisors® in your area who can help you take the next step on your stewardship journey. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: We sold our old house after buying a new one, so we now have a lump sum in savings. We planned to use most of it to recast the new mortgage and lower our payment, but we're wondering whether we should keep some in savings or invest part of it. How can we steward this money wisely? My 23-year-old granddaughter struggles to manage money. Can you recommend a budgeting plan, tool, or app that could help her? I'm 70 and have heard you talk about Qualified Charitable Distributions. What exactly is a QCD, and can I use it for my tithes? My husband and I are nearing 65. In retirement, we expect $5,000–$6,000 a month in income, a paid-off home, about $80,000 in emergency cash, and another $100,000–$200,000 to invest, plus around $50,000 already in Nasdaq and S&P 500 stocks. What conservative investment options should we consider so we can draw from that money monthly if needed, especially from a Christian perspective? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

When God's people respond with generosity, real lives are changed—and doors open for hope that lasts. That has been the story behind FaithFi's partnership with Heart for Lebanon, a ministry serving families displaced by the ongoing crisis in Lebanon. On today's show, we welcomed May-Lee Melki, U.S. Managing Director of Heart for Lebanon, to share what God has already made possible through the generosity of FaithFi listeners—and why the need remains urgent. Over the past few months, May-Lee and her father, Camille, have helped listeners understand the tremendous challenges facing families in Lebanon. The war has displaced thousands, placed communities under severe strain, and left many families carrying emotional, physical, and spiritual burdens. While there have been temporary pauses in the fighting, May-Lee explained that a ceasefire has not meant true peace for many families. “Families are beginning to experience different effects of the ongoing war, instability, and repeated disruption,” she said. “There's a lot of fear, and there's a lot of uncertainty.” Many are still facing food insecurity, damaged infrastructure, interrupted livelihoods, and the constant fear that conditions could worsen without warning. Generosity That Has Already Made a Difference FaithFi listeners originally set out to help 275 displaced families in Lebanon. By God's grace, that goal has now been met. Those 275 families represent more than 1,000 individuals receiving life-sustaining support through Heart for Lebanon. That support includes food, mattresses, blankets, hygiene kits, diapers for adults and children, and care for newborns entering a world marked by war and uncertainty. But the impact goes beyond supplies. May-Lee shared the story of Ibrahim, a six-year-old boy whose family had to flee in the middle of the night as violence intensified. His parents carried their children and ran into the unknown, unsure where help would come from. Through the generosity of Faith and Finance listeners and the ministry of Heart for Lebanon, Ibrahim's family received practical care and ongoing support. His mother later told the team, “Please don't stop your children's activities, even throughout the war.” Ibrahim's favorite Bible story is Jesus feeding the 5,000. For him, that story has become deeply personal. He told the team, “Jesus loves us, and I know He will not let us go hungry.” That is more than humanitarian aid. It is a picture of God's provision working through His people. Meeting Physical Needs and Building Trust Heart for Lebanon's ministry begins by meeting urgent physical needs wherever families are—whether in shelters, makeshift tent settlements, or other temporary spaces. Food, bedding, and hygiene supplies help families survive while preserving their dignity. But the ministry does not stop there. May-Lee emphasized that Heart for Lebanon is not simply dropping off supplies and leaving. Their team is present for the long haul, walking with families through an open-ended season of displacement and uncertainty. That consistent presence creates trust. And trust opens the door to deeper conversations about faith, hope, and the love of Christ. May-Lee shared the story of Najwa, a woman who first came to Heart for Lebanon looking for food for her family. Over time, through relationships with the team, she found something she had not expected. She said her heart had been longing for a kind of spiritual nourishment she did not even know existed. Through the ministry's care and the message of the gospel, Najwa came to understand that she had not been forgotten by God. That kind of transformation takes time. It does not happen through a single package of supplies. It happens as God's people listen, serve, build relationships, and bring the hope of Christ into the deepest places of need. Hope in the Midst of Crisis In times of crisis, hearts are often more open than before. But May-Lee said that what truly points people to Jesus is not only the immediacy of help but also the authenticity of a long-term relationship. Heart for Lebanon's team is made up of local believers serving other locals—many of whom are experiencing the same hardships. Some members of the team in southern Lebanon have been displaced themselves, yet they continue to serve. That shared experience gives their ministry a unique credibility. Families see that these believers are not there temporarily. They are staying, serving, and carrying the burden. As a result, families are attending Bible studies in growing numbers, asking questions about faith, and seeking spiritual truth. May-Lee shared another story of a single mother named Nawal, who said, “Even during the war, someone was still thinking about us.” Through that care, she began to understand Jesus' love in a tangible way. “He's with me even in my darkest hour,” she said. That is the opportunity before Heart for Lebanon—to model the gospel in action during an ongoing crisis. Caring for the Whole Person The needs in Lebanon are not only physical. Children have witnessed things no child should have to see. Families have lost homes, routines, stability, and a sense of safety. Heart for Lebanon is helping turn crowded shelters and temporary spaces into places of care. Their team provides trauma-informed activities, play, art, and listening—simple but meaningful ways to help children process fear and begin to experience safety again. The ministry's approach is holistic because people are whole persons, made in the image of God. Food and supplies matter. Dignity matters. Emotional care matters. And above all, eternal hope in Christ matters. May-Lee put it plainly: tangible aid is important because it restores dignity, but it also becomes a vehicle for building trust and creating relationships that can flourish for God's Kingdom. The Need Remains Great Because of the generosity of Faith and Finance listeners, more than 275 displaced families are already receiving ongoing care. We praise God for that. But the need remains tremendous. Heart for Lebanon has committed to continue supporting these families with monthly care, including food, bedding, hygiene supplies, and relational support. They also hope to expand that care to reach even more families who are still facing fear, displacement, and uncertainty. Every $90 given helps provide a full month of care for a displaced family, while also allowing Heart for Lebanon to continue building relationships and sharing the hope of Christ. If you would like to help, visit FaithFi.com/Lebanon or text the word FAITH to 98656. When God's people respond with generosity, families receive more than temporary relief. They receive care, dignity, relationship, and a glimpse of the lasting hope found only in Christ. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I received a letter from Social Security about the Social Security Fairness Act and the end of the Windfall Elimination Provision. They also deposited a lump sum into my checking account. I'm confused about why I received it, what it means, and whether I'll owe taxes on it. A friend borrowed about $500 from a company called Elastic, but the balance quickly grew to around $3,200. My family and I want to help her pay it off, but I'm concerned it may be predatory or a scam. How can we protect her, and what steps should we take? My husband and I are 57 and 54. We once had about $200,000 in savings, but after COVID and serious health and life challenges, that money is gone. We earn about $65,000 a year, have only about $500 across our accounts, and are living paycheck to paycheck. We each have about $25,000 in life insurance or retirement, but we're essentially starting over. How can we rebuild a financial plan at this stage of life? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Heart for Lebanon Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

Minimalism isn't about removing the things you love. It's about removing the things that distract you from the things you love. That insight from Joshua Becker gets to the heart of a much deeper issue than messy closets or crowded garages. Clutter competes for more than our space. It competes for our attention, affection, time, energy, and generosity. Joshua Becker, New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author and founder of Becoming Minimalist, joined the show today to talk about his book, Uncluttered Faith: Own Less, Love More, and Make an Impact in Your World.  His message is not that every Christian needs bare walls, a tiny home, or a life stripped of beauty and enjoyment. Rather, it's an invitation to ask a better question: Are the things we own helping us live faithfully, or are they quietly distracting us from what matters most? Minimalism Is Not One-Size-Fits-All For many people, the word “minimalism” brings to mind stark white rooms, empty shelves, or getting rid of nearly everything they own. But Becker is quick to point out that minimalism will look different from one person to another. Some may enjoy a simpler aesthetic. Others may not. Some may feel called to live with very little. Others may simply need to become more intentional about what they own and why. Becker defines minimalism as “the intentional promotion of the things we most value by removing anything that distracts us from it.” That definition moves the conversation from rules to purpose. The goal is not to own less for its own sake. The goal is to make room for what God has called us to value most. When Possessions Begin to Possess Us Becker's journey began on an ordinary Saturday morning. He set out to clean his garage while his young son wanted him to play. Hours later, still surrounded by stuff, he realized he had spent his day maintaining possessions instead of investing in his son. That moment became a turning point. He and his wife began removing unnecessary possessions from their home, eventually giving away or discarding 60 to 70 percent of what they owned. With each step, Becker noticed practical benefits. Their home became easier to maintain. Their lifestyle costs less. They had more time and energy. They also found new opportunities for generosity. As a pastor, Becker began to see the connection between simplicity and faith. Jesus had been inviting His followers into this kind of life all along—not as deprivation, but as freedom. He calls us away from storing up treasures on earth and toward a life oriented around the Kingdom of God. Consumerism Shapes Us More Than We Realize We live in a culture that constantly tells us more is better. Advertisements, social media, algorithms, and comparison all work together to convince us that the next purchase will make us happier, more secure, more admired, or more complete. The message is subtle but powerful: your life will be better if you buy what we're selling. Over time, that message shapes our desires. We begin to define success by accumulation. Bigger homes, newer cars, fuller closets, upgraded technology, and constant consumption start to feel normal. But normal is not always wise. And common is not always faithful. Scripture repeatedly warns us that riches and possessions can deceive us. In Luke 8, Jesus describes the seed choked by “the cares and riches and pleasures of life,” keeping it from bearing mature fruit. Possessions are not evil in themselves, but they can become thorns when they crowd out our attention to God, neighbor, and calling. Simplicity Is Not Deprivation Biblical simplicity does not mean rejecting every comfort or refusing to enjoy God's gifts. 1 Timothy 6:17 reminds us that God “richly provides us with everything to enjoy.” Money can be used for celebration, hospitality, beauty, rest, and meaningful experiences with family and friends. Those are good gifts from a generous God. The issue is not whether we enjoy what God provides. The issue is whether those gifts become idols. When possessions begin to promise identity, security, comfort, or joy in ways only God can provide, they no longer serve us. They master us. That is why simplicity can be a path toward abundance. When we own less of what distracts us, we gain more of what matters: time, margin, focus, generosity, relationships, and availability to God's work. Clutter Steals Margin Many people today feel hurried, anxious, and stretched thin. While clutter is not the only reason for that exhaustion, it often contributes more than we realize. The more we own, the more we must clean, organize, protect, repair, insure, store, and pay for. Possessions require attention. They make demands. They quietly add weight to already busy lives. A less cluttered life can create margin—space to pray, rest, serve, listen, give, and be present. It can help us become more attentive to God and to the people He has placed before us. Becker shared the story of a woman named Trish, whose grandmother modeled a simple and faithful life. Her grandmother gardened, gathered eggs, sat on the porch, and lived with a peaceful attentiveness that left a lasting mark. Trish remembered that example as the kind of life she wanted to cultivate in her own family—not disconnected from the world, but less rushed by it. That kind of legacy is often caught more than taught. Owning Less Can Free Us to Give More One of the clearest connections between simplicity and faith is generosity. When we spend less on accumulation, we have more freedom to give. For someone in debt, owning less may create room to pay down what is owed. For someone living paycheck to paycheck, it may provide breathing room. For someone already financially stable, it may open the door to greater generosity. This is not merely a financial principle. It is a spiritual one. Jesus said in Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Our spending and giving reveal what we value. And as we direct our resources toward God's Kingdom, our hearts are shaped in the process. Generosity helps loosen the grip of materialism. It reminds us that money is not our treasure, our protector, or our purpose. It is a tool entrusted to us by God for His glory and the good of others. A More Faithful Question The goal of an uncluttered faith is not to make everyone's home look the same. It is not to shame people for enjoying good gifts. And it is not to create a new form of legalism around how much a Christian should own. The better question is this: What is God calling me to make room for? Maybe it's more time with your children. Maybe it's more generosity. Maybe it's less anxiety. Maybe it's a greater availability to serve. Maybe it's simply the freedom to stop chasing what the world says you need and begin living more deeply in what Christ has already given. Owning less is not the treasure. Christ is. But when we remove what distracts us, we may find ourselves freer to love Him, love others, and make an impact with what He has entrusted to us. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Can I borrow from my 401(k) instead of taking out a loan from the bank? My house is paid off, but I'm considering moving and may need funds available for a bridge loan. As the primary beneficiary of my late husband's IRA, do I have to move the full account into my name, or can I transfer part of it directly to my children since they're listed as contingent beneficiaries? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Uncluttered Faith: Own Less, Love More, and Make an Impact in Your World: A Minimalist Book by Joshua Becker Becoming Minimalist Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

“For you know how, like a father with his children, we exhorted each one of you, and encouraged you, and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God.” - 1 Thessalonians 2:11–12 With Father's Day approaching, it's worth asking a deeper question: What kind of legacy are we leaving as men, as dads, and as stewards of what God has entrusted to us? Jonathan Lewis, President of Eastport Financial Group and Founder of Fathers for Fathers, joined the show today to discuss fatherhood, faith, and the financial discipleship that can shape generations. Fathers for Fathers is a faith-based organization that restores hope, healing, and purpose in the lives of men, especially fathers. A Story God Redeemed Jonathan's passion for fathers is deeply personal. At 15 years old, he experienced the traumatic loss of his father in Nova Scotia. In the years that followed, he carried guilt, grief, and brokenness. He couch-surfed, slept in his car, and eventually joined the Canadian Armed Forces, where discipline helped steady his life. Looking back, Jonathan sees how God used even the painful parts of his story. The wounds and scars that once felt like liabilities have become part of the way he ministers to hurting men today. He points to Revelation 12:11, which speaks of overcoming “by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” God did not waste Jonathan's story. Instead, He redeemed it and now uses it to help other men find hope and healing. Your Story Is Not Over Many fathers carry silent shame or regret. Some feel they have failed their children. Others feel absent, discouraged, or unsure how to begin again. Jonathan's message to them is simple: Your story is not over if you are still breathing. Too often, men rehearse their failures and live in what Jonathan calls the “depreciation room,” constantly reminding themselves of what they have done wrong. But the gospel invites men to step out of shame and into repentance, responsibility, and renewed purpose. That does not mean minimizing sin or pretending failure has not happened. It means acknowledging what is true, bringing it into the light, and receiving the grace of Christ. As Jonathan explained, change requires contrition. It requires owning mistakes. And ultimately, it requires the substitute who has already stepped in for us: Jesus Christ. The First Step Toward Faithful Fatherhood For fathers who feel distant from their children, the first step may be small, but it should be faithful. Jonathan especially encourages absent fathers not to hide behind excuses. Many men who are not actively involved in their children's lives genuinely want to be, but they feel trapped by regret, conflict, or past failures. Still, faithfulness begins with taking responsibility. That may mean reaching out. It may mean providing financially. It may mean supporting your children's mother with humility and integrity. It may mean confessing hidden sin to a spiritually mature man and inviting him to hold you accountable. The goal is not to shame men, but to call them forward. Fatherhood requires courage, humility, and community. Men were not meant to carry the weight alone. Stewardship Begins at Home Because Jonathan also works with families through Eastport Financial Group, he sees stewardship as more than managing money. Biblical stewardship includes how we handle our time, relationships, influence, responsibilities, and resources. A man may be generous with money but neglect generosity with his love, presence, patience, or encouragement. That misses the point. Faithful stewardship begins at home. It starts with loving one's wife, caring for one's children, and dying to selfishness. Ephesians 5 calls husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church. That kind of love is not merely dramatic sacrifice in a crisis; it is daily self-denial, service, and humility. Jonathan encourages men to “board up the depreciation room” when it comes to their wives and families. Instead of rehearsing frustrations and failures, men should intentionally practice gratitude, honor, and appreciation. From there, stewardship extends into work, provision, financial management, generosity, and spiritual leadership. Providing for one's family matters. Managing finances wisely matters. Going to work matters faithfully. But all of it should flow from a heart submitted to Christ. Financial Discipleship That Shapes Generations Fathers teach financial stewardship whether they realize it or not. Children notice what their fathers value, what they fear, what they chase, and what they trust. A father's legacy is not only measured by what he leaves behind financially. It is also measured by the priorities he models. Does he hold money loosely? Does he give generously? Does he trust God in uncertainty? Does he speak about provision with faith rather than fear? Does he show that people matter more than possessions? Financial discipleship begins when fathers connect money to worship, responsibility, generosity, and dependence on God. It is not merely about teaching children how to budget or save, though those skills matter. It is about showing them that everything belongs to God and that we are called to manage His resources for His glory. Hope for Every Father Some dads feel discouraged. Some feel like failures. Others may be doing many things well, but still sense that God is calling them deeper. The hope of the gospel is that no father is beyond the reach of God's grace. Romans 8 reminds us that nothing can separate God's people from the love of Christ. Not failure. Not regret. Not past sin. Not years of absence. God's grace is not permission to remain passive, but it is the power to repent, return, and walk in newness of life. Fatherhood is a calling that requires courage, but no man has to walk it alone. Through Christ, through the help of godly brothers, and through daily steps of obedience, fathers can leave a legacy of faithfulness that reaches far beyond finances. To learn more about Jonathan Lewis and the ministry of Fathers for Fathers, visit FathersForFathers.org. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I just paid off one credit card and plan to pay off another by the end of the year. Should I stop using them completely, or make a small purchase each month to keep them active? I used to work in real estate and recently found an old cashier's check for about $8,000, possibly from an escrow account. How can I find out whether the bank will still honor it and what steps I need to take to get it paid? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Fathers for Fathers Eastport Financial Group Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

During our working years, giving often feels straightforward. A paycheck comes in, and many believers give a set portion from that income. But retirement can make the question more complicated. That's why Anthony Saffer, CEO of One Degree Advisors, a Certified Financial Planner, Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®), and host of the Retire Confidently YouTube channel, joined the show today to help retirees think wisely and biblically about giving in this season of life. Instead of a single paycheck, income may come from Social Security, pensions, investments, rental income, or savings. Some of that money may represent new earnings or investment growth. Some of it may be money already earned—and perhaps already tithed on—during the working years. So how should Christians think about tithing in retirement? The goal is not to create a perfect formula, but to pursue faithful, joyful generosity before the Lord. Giving Begins with the Heart Before considering the practical details, it's important to begin with the biblical foundation. 2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” While Christians may differ on how the Old Testament tithe applies today, Scripture consistently calls God's people to generosity. Giving is not meant to be driven by guilt, fear, or pressure. It is a response to God's grace. That remains true in every season of life—including retirement. For many believers, the tithe continues to serve as a helpful starting point. Randy Alcorn has called it the “training wheels of giving” because it provides structure, consistency, and a simple framework for generosity. But the tithe is not the finish line. It is a starting point for a life of open-handed stewardship. Why Retirement Makes Giving More Complicated In retirement, the question often becomes less about whether to give and more about how to apply giving wisely. That's because retirement income can come from several sources. Social Security may reflect years of payroll taxes. Pension income may include contributions from both the employee and employer. Investment withdrawals may include both principal and growth. Brokerage accounts, IRAs, and rental income can blur the lines even further. This is where the distinction between “increase” and “return of principal” becomes helpful. Increase refers to new earnings or growth. A paycheck is typically easy to identify as an increase. Investment gains, interest, dividends, or employer-funded benefits may also fall into that category. Return of principal refers to money already earned or contributed in the past. For example, if you withdraw money from an account that was funded with income you already tithed on, part of that withdrawal may simply be returning money you previously set aside. That distinction does not answer every question, but it gives retirees a helpful lens for thoughtful giving. Approach One: Give on the Increase One option is to tithe on the portion of retirement income that represents new growth or increase. For example, someone withdrawing from an investment account may try to estimate what portion of the account represents original contributions and what portion represents growth. The tithe could then be based on the growth portion rather than the full withdrawal. This approach may be especially meaningful for those who tithed consistently on gross income during their working years and want to avoid “re-tithing” on money they already gave from. Of course, the calculation will rarely be exact. Many retirees may not have decades of contribution records available. In that case, it may be wise to review statements, consider contribution history, and choose a reasonable estimate that can be applied consistently. The goal is not precision for precision's sake. The goal is thoughtful, intentional stewardship. Approach Two: Give on Income as It Is Received A second approach is to tithe on retirement income as it is received, including Social Security, pension payments, and investment withdrawals. This mirrors the way many people gave during their working years: income comes in, and a portion is given back to the Lord. The benefit of this approach is simplicity. It avoids ongoing calculations and allows giving to remain consistent and easy to understand. For many retirees, that clarity helps them stay faithful in their generosity. Some may ask, “But wouldn't that mean I'm giving again on money I already tithed on?” In some cases, yes. But those who take this approach often prioritize generosity over precision. They see every provision as a gracious gift from God and respond by giving systematically and joyfully. For them, the question is not, “What is the least I am required to give?” but, “How can I continue to honor the Lord with what He has entrusted to me?” Which Approach Is Best? There is not one answer that fits every retiree. Some believers value precision and want to avoid double-counting. Others value simplicity and consistency. Some are working with tight retirement budgets and need to think carefully about sustainable giving. Others may be able to give more generously than ever before. Married couples should talk and pray through the decision together. A financial advisor who understands biblical stewardship can also help retirees evaluate their income sources, giving goals, and long-term needs. What matters most is that the decision is made prayerfully, joyfully, and without compulsion. Both approaches can honor the Lord when they flow from a heart of gratitude and faithfulness. Faithfulness Is Not a Math Equation It is easy to overcomplicate giving in retirement. Some may feel pressure to find the perfect formula. Others may feel guilty because they are unsure whether they are doing enough. But Scripture points us back to the heart. Jesus warned against a kind of religious precision that counted every detail while neglecting justice, mercy, and love. Giving matters, but it must never become merely a calculation. It is an act of worship. So when the paycheck stops, and retirement income begins, the question is not simply, “What counts as income?” The deeper question is, “How can I continue to reflect God's generosity in this season?” Retirement may change the way income arrives, but it does not change the calling to steward faithfully. Whether you give based on estimated increase or on income as it is received, the goal is the same: faithful, joyful giving that honors God and blesses others. In the end, tithing in retirement is not about perfect math. It is about a faithful heart. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My mom is 78 and still manages her own finances, but we're planning ahead. She doesn't want a general power of attorney because she wants to keep control for now. She's interested in a springing power of attorney, but I'm having trouble finding one. How can we get that set up? I live in Magnolia, Texas, where many families can't afford youth sports like flag football, baseball, or jiu-jitsu. I've been meeting with kids at the park once a week, but the group is growing, and I need help with equipment. How do I ask NFL teams or others for sponsorship? Do I need to start a nonprofit first, or can I seek support as I am? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) One Degree Advisors | Retire Confidently | Anthony Saffer & Alex Okugawa Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.

Sometimes, a simple phone call becomes more than a request for help. It becomes a picture of the body of Christ at work. A few months ago, a listener named Renee from North Carolina called the show during a difficult season. As a widow raising her special-needs grandchildren on a fixed income, she was carrying a heavy burden. Medical bills were mounting, daily expenses were rising, and her grandchildren's needs were increasing. Renee later described that season as a time when she felt she was “running out of options.” There was only so much money available, and the girls were beginning to need more care and intervention than she could provide on her own. “It was disconcerting,” she said. “Things were falling apart.” But that phone call did not end with her struggle. It became the beginning of something deeply encouraging. A Listener Responds After Renee shared her story on the program, another listener, Dwayne, heard her need and felt led to help. Renee had never met him. She did not know his name at the time. But within a couple of days, she received word that someone wanted to step in and assist. Her first response was disbelief. “I'm still trying to process it,” she said. “There certainly had to be more people deserving than me.” But as the situation unfolded, Renee began to see the Lord's hand in it. “This had to have come from God,” she said. “You don't turn God down.” Help Given With Care FaithFi works with Helping Hands in situations like this to ensure needs are carefully reviewed and assistance is handled wisely. Helping Hands walks through a process that includes reviewing documents and bills, conducting interviews, and confirming the specific needs. In Renee's case, the ministry met with her several times, verified the situation, and then paid the bills directly. That support helped provide relief in several areas. Renee received assistance with her mortgage, groceries, and gas. She had recently started going to a food bank, but her grandchildren's doctor appointments often prevented her from getting there. As food and gas prices continued to rise, even practical help with daily expenses made a significant difference. “It was just mind-boggling,” Renee said. The Gift of Prayer While the financial assistance was meaningful, Renee also wanted listeners to know that their prayers were felt. “To the listeners, first, you can feel the prayers that go out,” she said. “It's palpable.” She described a series of events that followed, moments where she knew people were actively praying for her and her grandchildren. That spiritual support helped lift the burden she had been carrying. “I'm able to smile and give genuine hugs and devote my brain to my girls,” she said. “That is God's gift.” A Word of Thanks When Renee finally learned Dwayne's name, she said she could now add him to her prayers. “To Dwayne, I am forever in your debt,” she said. “Your heart is huge. I don't know your situation, but God bless you. Truly, God bless you, because you made a world of difference for my girls and me.” Her gratitude was not only for the financial support but for the reminder that she had not been forgotten. God had used the generosity of one listener, the prayers of many, and the careful work of a ministry partner to bring help at just the right time. Bearing One Another's Burdens Galatians 6:2 says, “Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” That is what we see in Renee's story. One member of the body of Christ carried a heavy load. Another member saw the need and responded. Others prayed. A ministry came alongside with wisdom and care. This is not merely a story of generosity. It is a picture of Christian love in action. When God's people respond to real needs with compassion, wisdom, and humility, burdens are shared. Hope is strengthened. And the body of Christ bears witness to the love of Christ. Renee's story reminds us that no act of generosity is too small when placed in God's hands. A phone call, a prayer, a gift, or a willingness to step into someone else's burden can become a powerful expression of grace. And sometimes, when one person's burden becomes another person's calling, we get to see the church become what it was always meant to be. If you ever hear a story on this program and feel prompted to help, we'd love to hear from you. While we can't meet every need, we do have a careful process through our partnership with Helping Hands to connect generous listeners with verified needs.  If you'd like to explore how you might come alongside someone in that way, email us at info@faithfi.com or let us know when you call the program. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm looking for advice on credit repair. What steps can I take to improve and rebuild my credit? My two grandchildren, ages 17½ and 16, inherited about $10,000 currently in CDs that are coming due. Should we let the CDs roll over for another two years at about 4%, or is there a better way to invest the money so it can grow and they won't have full access until closer to age 21? I'm a sole proprietor and have worked for 47 years. I often help family members during emergencies, but some struggle with consistent work. How do I balance generosity with not enabling dependence, and where should I draw the line? I have a 401(k) through Empower, and my investments seem very volatile. Should I keep using the current options, switch to a target-date fund, or consider their managed account service—especially given the fees? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Helping Hands Charitable Schwab Intelligent Portfolios® | Fidelity Go® Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Do you ever feel trapped by insecurity, comparison, or the pressure to prove yourself?In today's episode, Kaley Olson and Cailah Garcia sit down with author, pastor, and speaker Sharon Hodde Miller to discuss a surprising source of insecurity that many women overlook. Through personal stories, biblical teaching, and practical wisdom, Sharon explains why some insecurity stems not from thinking too little of ourselves but from thinking about ourselves too much.Drawing from Moses' story in Exodus 4 and her own journey through ministry, Sharon shares how God invites us to shift our focus away from our limitations and back to His sufficiency. If you've ever wondered whether you're enough for what God has called you to do, this conversation will remind you where true confidence is found.You'll learn:The difference between low self-esteem and self-preoccupation.Why affirmation alone cannot heal every insecurity.What God's response to Moses teaches us about our limitations.How to identify whether insecurity is revealing an unhealed wound or misplaced focus.A practical way to shift your eyes off yourself and back onto Jesus.Resources From This Episode:Get Sharon Hodde Miller's book Free of Me: Why Life Is Better When It's Not About You. This bestselling book explores the freedom that comes when we stop making life all about ourselves and start focusing on God's greater purpose.Get Sharon Hodde Miller's devotional Gazing at God: A 40-Day Journey to Greater Freedom from Self. This devotional helps readers identify areas of self-focus, find healing for their wounds, and cultivate a life centered on Christ.Learn more about the She Speaks Conference.Join us from July 16-18 in Charlotte, North Carolina, for powerful teaching, practical training, and encouragement to help you step confidently into the calling God has placed on your life.Capstone Wellness provides residential treatment and custom therapy intensives that retrace hurt to the roots in a Christ-centered environment. Learn more at Capstonewellness.com/proverbs31Download a transcript of this episode.Want More on This Topic?Check out “How To Escape the Comparison Trap” from The Proverbs 31 Ministries Podcast archives! 

Have you ever felt completely stuck when it comes to body image, or really ANY area where you just can’t get unstuck, no matter what boxes you check? In this episode, Heather Creekmore dives into the underlying reasons we stay stuck and offers a biblically-rooted path toward true freedom. Episode Highlights Why Do We Get Stuck? Exploring the feeling of desperation and stuckness, especially around body image or life circumstancesHeather Creekmore shares the real-life struggle and the “one thing” mindset00:00:09 Parallels with the biblical story of Rachel & Leah’s desperate longing00:03:01 The Root of Stuckness: Envy and Comparison How envy eats us alive—what Rachel and Leah were really longing for, and how this shows up in our own lives00:03:51 The dangerous pattern of “Give me _ or I’ll die!” and how this mindset affects our faith and contentment00:05:10 False Solutions and Chasing Idols Why achieving our desires (like Rachel’s longed-for baby) doesn’t satisfy in the end00:10:17 How “self-improvement” can actually lead to more pride and stuckness instead of freedom00:25:17 The Call to Pure Humility A deep dive into biblical humility vs. pride; why humility is about focusing less on ourselves00:13:15 The example of Mary (mother of Jesus) and her response of true humility and worship00:24:35 Getting Unstuck: Practical Steps Why you can’t do it alone—why Christian community, confession, and honest conversations are crucial00:31:19 How zooming out (not magnifying your own issues) can change everything00:30:26 Final Encouragement Reminder: body image healing isn't just mental...it’s spiritual. It's very difficult, if not impossible, to heal in isolation or alone.00:35:29 Mentioned Episodes and Resources The following episodes and resources are referenced and would be linked in the show notes: Episode: “What if I Just Want a Body I'm Proud Of?”(Heather Creekmore discusses the pitfalls of longing for body satisfaction through surface change. Episode: “I'm Sorry I Got it Wrong: Why Leaning On Your Own Understanding Isn't the Answer”(Discussed at 00:20:35) “Waiting for Weight Loss” Series(A series reframing how we view weight loss and its relationship to body image freedom) “YouVersion Bible Reading Plans” (Summer Body Image Issues and More)(Find Bible-based reading plans tailored to body image struggles) Book: The Comparison Free Life(Learn more about chasing idols and biblical freedom) Book: The 40-Day Body Image Workbook Book: Aging Gratefully: A 30-Day Devotional for Women in Midlife Book: Heather's story- Compared to Who? Stay Connected Take the free body image quiz and access all resources at improvebodyimage.com Interested in one-on-one, bible-based coaching (nouthetic counseling)? Visit the “Work with Me” and “Beyond Body Image” sections of the site. If you’re struggling, don’t walk the road alone! Share the episode with a friend or invite someone to join the next 40-Day Journey for Christian women. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Many investors are wondering whether the market is getting ahead of itself, especially when it comes to artificial intelligence and technology stocks. But perhaps the better question is not, “Are we in a bubble?” The better question may be, “How should we respond if we are?” That was the focus of today's conversation with Mark Biller, Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing. With AI continuing to drive market enthusiasm, many investors are feeling both excitement and concern. The challenge is learning how to respond with wisdom rather than fear. Why Investors Are Concerned About AI and Tech The AI story has been driving markets for several years. One clear example is the tech-heavy Nasdaq, which has risen sharply since the end of the 2022 bear market. More recently, many companies have reported rapid profit growth and have credited AI as a key factor. That has encouraged investors because it shows AI is not merely hype. Companies across many industries are beginning to see real benefits from AI tools, including improved efficiency and increased profitability. At the same time, the demand for AI computing power has caused certain sectors—especially semiconductor stocks—to soar. When any part of the market begins rising almost straight up, investors naturally become nervous. It brings to mind previous market manias that ended in painful declines. Is This Really a Bubble? Calling a bubble in real time is extremely difficult. Even when someone identifies one correctly, acting on that information too early can be costly. Mark pointed to the late 1990s internet bubble as an example. Many investors suspected that Internet stocks were overheated long before the bubble actually burst. Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan famously warned about “irrational exuberance,” but that warning came more than three years before the market peak. Investors who sold immediately missed significant gains before the downturn finally arrived. That illustrates an important point: even if a bubble is forming, that does not tell investors exactly what to do or when to do it. Markets are forward-looking. Investors are pricing companies not only on current earnings but also on what they believe those companies may earn in the future. If expectations rise dramatically, stock prices often rise with them. So it is possible that some parts of the market, such as semiconductor stocks, may be showing bubble-like characteristics while the broader market does not look as overheated. But the practical question remains: how should investors respond? Avoid Fear-Based Market Timing Most investors would love to avoid downturns without missing the upside. But in practice, that kind of market timing is extremely difficult. Investors often make one of two mistakes. Some sell too early and miss major gains. Others wait too long and sell only after stocks have already fallen, and fear has taken over. That is why a disciplined plan matters. Instead of trying to predict the exact top of the market, wise investors focus on staying invested while managing risk thoughtfully. Historically, some of the market's strongest gains occur late in bull markets. That does not mean investors should ignore risk, but it does mean that fear-based decisions can be costly. Diversification Still Matters One of the most practical ways to manage risk is through diversification. A well-balanced portfolio helps reduce the risk of becoming overly exposed to a single hot sector. Mark offered a helpful way to think about it: if everything you own is rising at the same time, or if nothing you own is rising, you may not be truly diversified. But if some holdings are doing very well while others seem to be lagging, that may actually be a sign that your portfolio is properly balanced. Diversification can feel frustrating when one part of the market is racing ahead. But its purpose is not to maximize every short-term gain. Its purpose is to help investors remain steady through a variety of market environments. Rebalancing Is a Disciplined Way to Manage Risk Another practical tool is rebalancing. When one part of a portfolio has grown significantly, rebalancing allows investors to shift some gains out of fast-rising assets and back into areas that have not run up as much. This helps manage risk without requiring investors to predict the future. Rebalancing also has an emotional benefit. It gives investors a clear process to follow. Instead of asking, “Should I sell everything?” they can simply make measured adjustments in line with their plan. That kind of discipline can help investors avoid impulsive decisions driven by fear or excitement. Keep Reasonable Expectations Investors also need realistic expectations. Markets do not move up in a straight line forever. If you stay invested in strong-performing sectors, there is a good chance you will eventually give back some gains when leadership changes or when a bear market arrives. That is part of investing. The goal is not to avoid every decline. The goal is to participate in the market's long-term growth while managing risk wisely along the way. Even defensive investing comes with trade-offs. Playing defense too aggressively—or too early—can lead to false alarms and missed returns. Staying invested longer may bring more growth, but it also means enduring discomfort when markets pull back. There is no perfect way to avoid every downside while capturing every gain. Know Your Temperament Successful investing is not only about knowledge. It is also about behavior. Investors who tend to do well over time are often those who can remain patient, diversified, disciplined, and emotionally steady in both strong and difficult markets. That is especially important when headlines are filled with bubble talk. Fear can push investors to sell too soon. Excitement can push them to chase what has already risen. Neither is a wise foundation for financial decision-making. A Wise Response to Market Uncertainty When markets look overheated, investors do not have to ignore the risks. But they also do not have to be ruled by them. A wise response begins with a disciplined, diversified, long-term plan. Rebalance periodically. Keep expectations realistic. Understand your own temperament. And avoid making major decisions based on fear, excitement, or the latest market chatter. Markets can stay hot longer than many people expect, and guessing the exact turning point usually creates more problems than it solves. But a thoughtful strategy can help investors respond with wisdom rather than react emotionally. For more on this topic, you can read Mark Biller's article, “How to Handle a Bubble,” at SoundMindInvesting.org. Sound Mind Investing has been helping Christians make biblically informed investing decisions for more than 30 years, offering practical guidance for investors who want to approach the markets with wisdom, discipline, and a long-term perspective. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I have some very old debts that have been removed from my credit report. I want to handle them ethically and with integrity. Should I try to negotiate reduced settlements with creditors, or should I aim to repay the full amount I originally owed? I have a whole life insurance policy I no longer need because I already have adequate coverage. With a child heading to college in about a year and a half, is there a tax-wise way to use the policy's cash value for college savings? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Sound Mind Investing (SMI) | SMI Private Client How to Handle a Bubble by Mark Biller (Article on SoundMindInvesting.org) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Genesis 11, the people of Babel said, “Let us make a name for ourselves.” That ancient temptation is still alive today. It can surface in seasons of success, when achievement becomes less about serving God and others and more about building a monument to ourselves. Success is not inherently wrong. Scripture commends diligence, wisdom, excellence, and faithful stewardship. But prosperity also brings spiritual danger. It can reveal what is already happening in the heart. That was the focus of today's conversation with Jim Wise, Senior Partner, Senior Private Wealth Advisor, and Director of Ministry Services for Blue Trust in Orlando. Jim is also a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®), bringing both financial expertise and a deep commitment to biblical stewardship. Jim recently gave a presentation to Kingdom Advisors titled, “My Practice: A Ministry to My Clients or a Monument to Myself?” While the message was directed to financial advisors, the question applies to all of us. Are we using what God has entrusted to us for His glory, or are we quietly building a name for ourselves? The Warning of Saul Jim's message grew out of his study of King Saul. Early in Saul's life, we see humility and dependence on God. He did not begin as a man obsessed with power or reputation. But as he experienced success as king, something changed. What began as humility slowly gave way to pride, arrogance, and self-protection. Eventually, Scripture tells us that Saul went to Carmel and “set up a monument for himself” (1 Samuel 15:12). That image stayed with Jim. Saul's story is not merely an ancient warning about a fallen king. It is a mirror for anyone who has experienced influence, achievement, wealth, or vocational success. Success often does not create pride as much as it exposes it. Jeremiah 17:9 reminds us, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?” Prosperity has a way of bringing hidden desires to the surface. When Pride Replaces Humility Many people begin their careers with a deep sense of dependence on the Lord. They pray for guidance, wisdom, provision, and open doors. But over time, success can distort our vision. We may come to believe that the results are mainly due to our talent, intelligence, discipline, or strategy. Jim described this as “believing our own press clippings.” In a culture that celebrates wealth, platform, and achievement, even a small measure of success can bring attention and praise. That attention is spiritually dangerous if it leads us to forget the Source of all we have. Deuteronomy 8:18 says, “You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth.” Everything we have comes from God and belongs to God. Our abilities, opportunities, influence, and resources are entrusted to us. They are not ours to use however we please. Choosing an Advisor: Character Matters This conversation also has practical implications for those choosing a financial advisor. Credentials, experience, and technical knowledge matter. But according to Jim, character matters even more. A highly competent advisor who lacks character may not lead to the kind of relationship or results a client needs. For Christians, it is especially important to find someone who shares a biblical worldview and understands generosity, stewardship, and accountability before God. A faithful advisor does not merely ask, “What can we accumulate?” but “What has God entrusted to you, and how can it be used wisely for His purposes?” That kind of counsel requires more than financial knowledge. It requires wisdom, humility, and a heart submitted to the Lord. Asking the Right Question: Why? Success itself is not the issue. The deeper question is why. Why has God entrusted this platform, business, income, influence, or opportunity to me? What are His purposes for it? What does faithfulness look like in this season? Jim emphasized that successful Christians should not feel guilty for working hard or pursuing excellence. In fact, when resources are stewarded for the kingdom of God, success can become a powerful means of blessing others and advancing the gospel. But we must continually return to the Owner and ask, “What do You want me to do with what You have entrusted to me?” Without that question, success can easily turn inward. Goals become centered on personal achievement, business growth, accumulation, comfort, or reputation, while generosity and kingdom purpose become afterthoughts. When Ambition Replaces Kingdom Purpose One warning sign is when selfish ambition begins to replace kingdom purpose. That may show up in the goals we set. We may have detailed plans for growth, income, retirement, lifestyle, or advancement, but no meaningful goals for generosity, discipleship, service, or eternal impact. That imbalance reveals something important. Our goals often show what we treasure. The issue is not whether we are successful. The issue is whether we are surrendering our success to God. Are we asking how our resources can serve His kingdom, or are we simply trying to secure our own comfort and reputation? Naming the Danger Honestly Words like materialism and idolatry can sound strong, but Jim believes we need to name these dangers honestly. We cannot repent of what we refuse to confront. If someone who loves us sees us drifting toward pride, selfish ambition, or materialism, it is an act of love for them to speak the truth. That kind of accountability is not judgmental when it is rooted in concern for our souls and desire for God's glory. The human heart is remarkably skilled at turning good gifts into ultimate things. That is why we need Scripture, prayer, community, and wise counsel to help us see clearly. Success as a Platform for God's Glory The goal is not to reject success. The goal is to receive it rightly. Every opportunity, every dollar, every relationship, and every platform is entrusted by God. The question is whether we will use those gifts to make a name for ourselves or to make much of Him. The people of Babel wanted to build upward for their own glory. Saul built a monument to himself. But followers of Christ are called to a different path. Real success is not ultimately measured by what we gain, but by who we are becoming in Christ. So as God entrusts us with work, wealth, influence, or opportunity, we should keep asking: Is this becoming a ministry to others, or a monument to myself? That question may be uncomfortable, but it is also a gift. It can help us remember that all we have is from God, belongs to God, and is meant to be used for His glory. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: A couple of years ago, my wife and I enrolled in a debt relief program after medical issues and job loss led us to rely heavily on credit cards. I didn't fully understand that the company would let accounts go to collections before negotiating settlements, and now I'm seeing the downsides—including tax consequences from forgiven debt. Today, my wife was served with papers for one account that hasn't been settled. Do we have to stay in the debt relief program, or can we get out and switch to credit counseling? And what should we know now that a lawsuit is involved? My mother is almost 80 and still has a mortgage. Should I pay it off and put the house in my name in case she needs nursing home care, or should I leave everything as it is and handle it through her estate when she passes? I'm also the executor of her will and want to know what steps, if any, I should take now. Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Blue Trust Breaking the Cycle by John Rinehart (Article in Issue 1 of Faithful Steward Magazine) Christian Credit Counselors Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) 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.

Falling behind on taxes can feel overwhelming. Maybe you missed one year, then another. Maybe a job change, a divorce, an illness, a death in the family, or a season of financial hardship made it hard to keep up. Or perhaps you started gig work, received a 1099 for the first time, and were surprised to discover that you owed more than expected. Whatever the reason, failing to file your taxes for several years is serious—but it is not the end of the road. The IRS would rather see you come back into compliance than continue avoiding the issue. The most important step is to begin. Kevin Cross has helped many people walk through this very situation, and his counsel is simple: don't panic, don't ignore it, and don't assume it's too late to get help. Start With the Current Year If you have not filed taxes in several years, your first instinct may be to go back to the earliest missed return and start there. But Kevin often recommends a different first step: filing the most recent tax year. The goal is to show the IRS that you are trying to come back into compliance. Filing the current year helps convey that this was not willful neglect but a season when something went wrong, and that you are now taking responsibility. The further behind you are, the harder it can feel to catch up. But beginning with the most recent return can give you a clear starting point and stop the pattern from continuing. Why People Fall Behind There are many reasons someone may stop filing taxes. Some are self-employed or gig workers who receive a 1099 and discover they owe thousands of dollars because taxes were not withheld throughout the year. Others fall behind after a divorce, death, disability, job loss, or another major life disruption. Since the COVID years, many people have also struggled to keep up with their tax responsibilities. Once one year is missed, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and avoid the next one, too. But avoidance only makes the problem heavier. The path forward begins with gathering information and getting the right help. Not Filing Is Different From Not Paying It is important to understand the difference between not filing and not paying. If you owe taxes, the April deadline matters. You can file an extension to extend the time to file your return, but that extension does not extend the time to pay any tax you owe. However, if you are due a refund, there is generally no penalty for filing late. But there is a time limit. If you wait too long—typically more than three years—you may lose the ability to claim that refund. Some people may not be required to file at all. For example, if Social Security is your only source of income, you generally do not need to file a federal tax return. But the challenge is that many people do not know whether they owe or not until their information is reviewed. Other income can change the picture, such as interest, dividends, retirement distributions, self-employment income, or the sale of a home. Even a home sale that qualifies for the primary residence capital gains exclusion may still need to be reported properly so the IRS understands why no tax is owed. Gather Your Wage and Income Transcripts One practical step is to request a wage and income transcript from the IRS. This transcript shows what the IRS has on file for you, including W-2s, 1099s, mortgage interest forms, retirement distributions, and other tax-related documents. You can request this through the IRS website. Searching for “IRS wage and income transcript” should take you to the right place. This can be especially helpful if you do not have all your old tax documents. It gives you a starting point for reconstructing the missing years. Work With a Qualified Tax Professional While you can download your transcripts yourself, you may not know what to do with them once you have them. IRS transcripts do not look like regular tax forms, and catching up after multiple missed years can involve more than simply filling out returns. That is why Kevin recommends working with a tax professional who understands tax representation and IRS procedures. A qualified CPA, enrolled agent, or tax professional can help determine which years need to be filed and how to communicate with the IRS. According to Kevin, the IRS typically focuses on the past six years when bringing a taxpayer back into compliance. That does not mean every situation is identical, but it does mean you should not simply assume you need to start with a very old return from decades ago. A knowledgeable professional can help you determine the proper path. The IRS Will Work With You Many people avoid filing because they are afraid of what they might owe. But the IRS has options for taxpayers who cannot pay everything at once. Depending on your situation, those options may include a payment plan or, in some cases, an offer in compromise. The key is to take the first step rather than remain silent. Ignoring the problem will not make it disappear. But taking action can begin to restore order, clarity, and peace of mind. A Faithful Step Forward Taxes may not be pleasant, but handling them honestly is part of faithful stewardship. Romans 13:7 says, “Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed.” If you have fallen behind, do not let shame keep you stuck. Begin with the next faithful step. Gather your documents. Request your transcripts. File the current year. Then find a qualified tax professional who can help you walk through the rest. And if you would like to find a trusted financial professional who shares your values, visit FindaCKA.com to connect with a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®) near you. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I have about $18,000 in credit card debt. I may have the opportunity to work in Alaska's fishing industry for three months and earn enough to pay it off quickly. Should I contact Christian Credit Counselors before I go, or wait to see how much progress I can make during those three months? I have a Thrift Savings Plan and plan to retire within the next five years. I was told I could roll over part of my TSP into something that would protect the principal, keep it from going down, and still leave my TSP open for contributions. Is that wise, and is it really guaranteed not to lose value? I'm 59 and have contributed to my company's traditional 401(k) for years, with a 50% employer match. I'm near the end of my career and likely at my highest income level. Should I keep contributing to the traditional 401(k), or would a Roth option make more sense? I've been studying the Bible for just over a year and recently began tithing. I want to honor the Lord faithfully, but I'm not sure where the tithe should go. Biblically, who should receive it? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Christian Credit Counselors Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) 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.

More Christians are asking whether their financial lives reflect their deepest convictions. That question often shapes how we give, spend, save, and invest. But increasingly, believers are also asking another important question: Where should I bank? For followers of Christ, stewardship is not limited to major financial decisions. It includes the ordinary, everyday choices we make with what God has entrusted to us. Banking may seem like a purely practical matter, but it can also become one more way to align our financial lives with our faith. Aaron Caid of AdelFi Christian Banking joined the show today to discuss how everyday banking can reflect biblical values and even support Kingdom work. Why Banking Matters Many believers are becoming more intentional about how their values shape their financial decisions. They want their spending, investing, and giving to honor God. So it makes sense that they would also begin asking thoughtful questions about where they bank and how their bank uses their money. Banking is not just about convenience, rates, or account features. It is also about trust, mission, and stewardship. For Christians, the question is not simply, “Where can I keep my money?” but also, “Can this decision reflect my faith and support work that matters for God's Kingdom?” A Banking Partner with a Christian Mission AdelFi Christian Banking was formed through the merger of Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU) and AdelFi, bringing together a shared commitment to serving believers, churches, ministries, and Christian businesses. That mission shapes the way AdelFi serves its members. Rather than viewing banking as disconnected from faith, AdelFi approaches financial services through the lens of biblical stewardship, long-term relationships, and Kingdom impact. Aaron explained that Christians can honor God not only in how they spend their money, but also in where they keep it. Through AdelFi, member deposits are used to support churches and ministries. Over the years, AdelFi has helped fund more than $1 billion in loans to churches and Christian ministries. Everyday Banking with Kingdom Impact One of the most encouraging reminders from the conversation is that ordinary financial activity can have an impact beyond our own accounts. Member deposits help provide affordable financing for churches, ministries, and Christian organizations. That means everyday banking can become part of a larger mission. Even routine transactions, such as using a debit or credit card, can help support Christian causes. Through AdelFi's card programs alone, nearly $7 million has been donated to Christian ministries and missions. In that sense, banking becomes more than a financial service. It becomes a practical way to participate in Kingdom work. For many Christians, choosing where to bank is also about community and shared values. AdelFi's focus on serving Christians and Christian ministries creates a sense of common purpose. Members know they are partnering with an institution that understands their worldview, stewardship priorities, and desire to make an eternal impact. That shared mission can build trust. It reminds us that money is never merely personal. Our financial choices can either reflect the values of the world around us or be shaped by the wisdom and priorities of God's Kingdom. Faithfulness in Every Financial Decision For someone who has never connected faith with banking, Aaron offered a simple encouragement: start by thinking intentionally about whether your financial decisions truly reflect your faith and values. The goal is not perfection. The goal is faithfulness. As Christians, we are called to steward all that God has entrusted to us—including the way we save, spend, give, invest, and bank. Every financial decision is an opportunity to ask, “How can I honor God with what He has placed in my hands?” Learn More AdelFi Christian Banking is FaithFi's recommended banking partner, offering a practical way to integrate your faith and financial decisions for the glory of God. Right now, AdelFi offers a high-yield money market account earning 4% for 12 months on balances up to $100,000. To learn more, visit FaithFi.com/Banking and enter the code FAITHFI. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My husband and I are 58, and we're trying to plan wisely for retirement while paying down debt. We owe $225,000 on our home at 3%, with about $150,000 in equity. Our current house is two stories, has no bedroom or full bath downstairs, and includes pool maintenance. We're considering a smaller one-story home in the $350,000–$400,000 range with lower maintenance but a higher mortgage rate and payment. Since our goal is to retire without a house payment, should we move now or stay put and focus on paying down debt? I was laid off two weeks ago and have a little over $50,000 in an old company retirement account. I'd like to roll it into an IRA, but I'm not sure how to do that or who to use. What's the right way to handle the rollover? I wanted to share a testimony about budgeting and tithing. When our three sons were young, our budget was very tight, and I didn't think we could afford to tithe. But my husband felt convicted that we should start, so we added it to the budget in faith. Somehow, the numbers still worked, and it never felt like that 10% was missing. We've continued tithing ever since, and I just wanted to share how the Lord has been faithful as we have honored Him. I'm 66 and have a significant amount of physical silver saved up. I'm considering selling it, but I'm concerned about shipping costs and getting a fair return. What's the best way to sell physical silver and maximize its value? I'm 61, and my husband turns 66 this year. He's considering retiring, going on Medicare, and continuing to work. If he starts Social Security around age 67, can he earn any amount from work without reducing his benefits, or would an earnings limit still apply? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) AdelFi Christian Banking Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) 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.

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” — Psalm 90:12 Psalm 90 reminds us that time is a gift from God. Every day we receive is an opportunity to live wisely, love intentionally, and steward the moments entrusted to us. For families with children or grandchildren, summer can be a unique opportunity to do just that. The school year brings its own rhythm and routine, but summer often loosens those structures. That can be a wonderful gift—but it can also bring unexpected challenges. Brian Holtz, CEO of Compass Financial Ministry, knows this firsthand. Brian and his wife, Erica, have four children in school, ranging in age from 8 to 16. Like many families, they welcome the blessing of more time together during the summer months. But they also know that when routines disappear, the days can easily slip away. As Brian puts it, the season that is supposed to feel restful can sometimes become even busier than the school year. That is why his family tries to approach summer with intentionality. Their simple framework is built around three important buckets: work, play, and rest. Work Builds Character Work may not sound like the first thing kids want to think about during summer break, but it is an important part of God's design. Work existed before the fall, and when kept in proper balance, it helps us grow in responsibility, service, and faithfulness. For children, summer provides extra time at home—and often, extra messes around the house. That creates a natural opportunity to teach responsibility through simple household duties. Brian's family calls these “daily duties.” Each child has an age-appropriate task to complete each day. It may be loading or unloading the dishwasher, sweeping the floor, taking out the trash, or helping with another household responsibility. Most of the time, the children can choose when they complete the task, but the expectation is clear: it needs to get done. These small responsibilities may not take much time, but they can help build accountability and a work ethic. They also remind children that being part of a family means contributing to the household's well-being. Each family can decide whether certain chores should be paid or simply expected as part of living together. Either way, the goal is not merely to complete tasks. The deeper goal is to help children understand that work is a meaningful part of life and stewardship. Play Creates Memories Summer is not only a time for work. It is also a time to enjoy the gift of family. Fun matters—not just for children, but for parents and grandparents as well. Many families spend the fall, winter, and spring looking forward to summer, hoping for more time together. But meaningful memories rarely happen by accident. They usually require some planning. Brian's family has a tradition they call the “summer of fun.” They choose a handful of activities they would not normally do during the school year and randomly select one every few weeks. To make it even more exciting, they use a Price Is Right-style spinning wheel to choose the activity. The activities do not have to be expensive. They may include going out for ice cream, visiting a favorite restaurant, having a picnic, or doing something outdoors together. Sometimes, they may include a bigger adventure. One year, Brian's oldest child spun the “big ticket” item—a weekend trip tubing down the Chattahoochee River. The point is not extravagance. The point is intentionality. Simple moments of joy can become lasting memories. And in Brian's family, participation in the “summer of fun” is connected to completing daily duties. That gives the children an added incentive while reinforcing the connection between responsibility and enjoyment. Rest Must Be Prioritized The final bucket is rest. Most parents know that what is fun for kids is not always restful for adults. And what feels restful to adults may not sound fun to kids. But both play and rest are important. God created us with limits. He designed us to work, but not endlessly. He calls us to enjoy His good gifts, but also to slow down and receive rest as a gift from Him. In the busyness of summer activities, camps, trips, and family plans, rest can easily be overlooked. That is why families need to make room for quiet, unhurried time. Sometimes that may mean protecting an evening at home. Sometimes it may mean a slower morning, a Sabbath rhythm, or a break from screens and schedules. Rest reminds us that our worth is not measured by productivity. It teaches children—and reminds adults—that we are dependent creatures who need God's provision, not just our own effort. Stewarding the Summer Well Summer is a gift to stewards. It gives families a unique opportunity to shape character, build memories, and practice rhythms that reflect God's design. Work teaches responsibility. Play creates joy and connection. Rest reminds us to trust the Lord with our time. As Psalm 90:12 reminds us, wisdom begins when we recognize that our days are numbered. We cannot control how quickly the summer passes, but we can choose to receive it as a gift and steward it with purpose. So this summer, consider how your family might make room for work, play, and rest. Not as a rigid formula, but as a faithful way to number your days and seek a heart of wisdom. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I own a rental house and am starting my second eviction for non-payment. I'm considering selling, though the house is next door to my daughter, and she'd prefer I keep it. I owe about $50,000; it may be worth around $169,000, and it rents for $1,300 a month. Given the market and my family situation, should I sell now or keep it? I have a property owned by a nonprofit that has shut down. I'd like to sell the property and donate the proceeds to a 501(c)(3) church. What steps or forms are required, and is that handled at closing, or are there special rules for selling nonprofit property? I've never invested before, and I don't plan to retire in the traditional sense. How should I think about saving, spending, getting out of debt, and investing? I'd also like to invest in line with my values, but I only have a landline and regular mail—no internet. How can I pursue faith-based investing with those limitations? I'm 60 years old. If I claim Social Security at 62, will my benefit increase at ages 65 or 70, or will I be locked into the lower amount from claiming early? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Compass Financial Ministry Eventide | OneAscent | Timothy Plan Fidelity | Charles Schwab Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) 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.

How is trauma stored in the body?Josh Trent welcomes double board-certified physician, Dr. Aimie Apigian, to the Wellness + Wisdom Podcast, episode 820, to reveal the connection between neuroscience, functional medicine, and attachment theory, how trauma becomes a physiological pattern stored in the body, and why healing trauma can become easy when we understand how it forms.

“Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.” — Psalm 73:25 We spend a lot of time chasing what we think will satisfy. More money. More security. More success. More possessions. But Jesus offers a radically different vision of abundance—one that cannot be measured by what we own. In Luke 12, someone in the crowd approaches Jesus with what sounds like a practical financial request: “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” On the surface, it seems reasonable. Inheritance disputes were common, and rabbis were often asked to weigh in on such matters. But Jesus doesn't step into the legal details. Instead, He goes straight to the heart: “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions” (Luke 12:15). That statement would have been startling then, and it's still startling now. The Lie of Possessions Most of us would never say that our lives consist of what we own. But if we're honest, we often live as if it does. We may assume that more money will bring peace, more savings will remove fear, more success will secure our identity, or more stuff will satisfy the longing in our hearts. But Jesus says abundance isn't found there. And notice His warning: “Be on your guard against all covetousness.” This is not only a temptation for the wealthy. Coveting can show up in any income bracket. It can surface when we envy someone else's lifestyle, resent what we don't have, obsess over what we want next, or place our hope in what money can do. That's why money issues are rarely just dollars-and-cents issues. They are heart issues. Where True Abundance Is Found If abundance is not found in possessions, where is it found? Jesus answers that clearly in John 10:10: “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” The abundant life is not something Jesus merely points to. It is something He brings. True abundance is found in an abiding relationship with Him. That means abundance is deeper than circumstances. It is possible to have much and still be spiritually empty. It is also possible to have little and still be full of joy, peace, and security in God. The Apostle Paul wrote, “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content” (Philippians 4:11). His contentment was not rooted in favorable conditions. It was rooted in the sufficiency of Christ. Psalm 23 paints the same picture: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” In other words, when the Lord is your shepherd, your deepest needs are met in Him. Possessions Are Gifts, Not Saviors None of this means possessions are bad. The Bible never teaches that money or material things are evil in themselves. They can be gifts from God—tools for provision, generosity, hospitality, and blessing. But they make terrible saviors. That is why financial stewardship begins with worship. Before we ask, “How much should I save?” or “What should I invest in?” or “Can I afford this purchase?” we should ask a deeper question: What am I looking to for life? That question can reshape every financial decision we make. A budget becomes more than a spreadsheet. It becomes a reflection of what we treasure. Saving becomes wise preparation, not a substitute for trust. Giving becomes an act of worship, not a threat to our happiness. Spending becomes more thoughtful because we are no longer chasing fulfillment in things. And success is redefined—not by accumulation, but by faithfulness. Freedom in Christ Maybe today you feel anxious because you haven't reached the number you thought would bring peace. Maybe you feel discouraged because resources are limited. Or maybe you have achieved the goals you once believed would satisfy, only to discover they didn't. Jesus meets each of us with the same loving truth: your life does not consist in the abundance of possessions. It is found in Him. And when Christ becomes your treasure, you are finally free—free from comparison, free from endless striving, free from the fear of not having enough, and free to steward what you have with gratitude, wisdom, and open hands. That is true abundance. Go Deeper If you'd like to go deeper into this powerful teaching from Luke 12, we invite you to pick up a copy of Rich Toward God, our four-week study on the parable of the rich fool. You can order yours today at FaithFi.com/Shop. And if you go through it with your church or small group, bulk discounts are available. That's FaithFi.com/Shop. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I make about $1,200 a month and may only have around $40 a month to invest. I don't understand investing terms and feel stuck financially. Since Kingdom Advisors may cost money, how can I start investing wisely with just a small amount? My daughter will be traveling through Europe for a few weeks this summer. Do you have a recommendation for travel insurance? I have four or five credit cards I haven't used in years, and I'm concerned about leaving those accounts open. What's the safest way to close unused credit cards without causing problems? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Schwab Intelligent Portfolios® BlueCross Travel Insurance | Allianz Travel Insurance The Sound Mind Investing Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Managing Your Money From a Biblical Perspective by Austin Pryor with Mark Biller Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) 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, on Karl and Crew, we continued our weekly theme, "Under Pressure," which explores how pressure exposes God's power, and we focused on 2 Corinthians 4:7–18. Rob West joined us to talk about financial pressure, trusting God as a provider, and practicing faithful stewardship when money feels tight. Host of the nationally syndicated radio program Faith & Finance Live, is CEO of Kingdom Advisors, and wrote “Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship.” Steve Norman joined us to help us understand when to carry our own load, when to ask for help, and how to support loved ones without trying to carry what only God can. Steve is a pastor, speaker, corporate wellness coach for Winning At Home, and the host of “The New Norm with Steve Norman.” He wrote the book called “The Preacher as Sermon: How Who You Are Shapes What They Hear.” We then opened up the phone lines to hear from our listeners. We posed the question, “What is the great stuff in your life you have not thanked God for, but you would like to now?” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Rob West [ 22:45 ]Steve Norman [ 37:37 ]Caller Question [ 17:21 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” — Proverbs 19:17 As Christians, we're called to care for the poor. But what should we do when someone asks us for money on the street? Should we give cash? Offer food? Keep walking? And how do we show compassion without causing harm? Dr. David W. Jones joins us to help answer those questions. He's a senior professor of Christian ethics at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he has written extensively on moral, theological, and financial issues. He also completed his PhD with a focus on Christian financial ethics. According to Dr. Jones, the Bible is clear: God's people should never be indifferent to poverty. Jesus says, “Give to the one who begs from you” (Matthew 5:42), and 1 John 3:17 warns against closing our hearts to a brother in need. But the harder question is not whether we should care. It is how we should care wisely. Start With the Heart When we see someone asking for help, our first instinct may be suspicion. We may assume the person is lazy, addicted, unwilling to work, or responsible for their situation. But before deciding what to give, we should examine our own hearts. Dr. Jones describes this as the danger of being “middle class in spirit”—quietly believing we have what we have because we worked hard, while the person in need must have failed. But Jesus calls us to be “poor in spirit” (Matthew 5:3). The gospel reminds us that God did not wait for us to deserve His mercy. “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). That does not mean every request should be met with cash. But it does mean every person should be met with dignity. Compassion Requires Wisdom Giving cash directly to someone on the street is not necessarily wrong, but it may not always be the best way to help. If the money is used to support addiction or another destructive habit, our gift could unintentionally cause harm. Christian love seeks the good of the other person. That means generosity should be guided by wisdom, not guilt or impulse. One practical option is to offer non-cash help. You might keep granola bars, bottled water, or other simple items in your car. When possible, you could offer to buy a meal. These small acts can meet a real need while reducing the risk of enabling harm. The goal is not to create a rigid rule, but to ask: What is the most loving and responsible way to help in this situation? Do What You Can With What You Know In a brief encounter, you probably will not know someone's full story. You may not know whether their poverty is connected to job loss, addiction, illness, abuse, poor choices, or circumstances beyond their control. God does not require us to know everything. He calls us to be faithful. That means preparing ahead of time, responding with compassion, and helping in the wisest way available. Sometimes that may be food. Sometimes it may be a meal. Sometimes it may be directing someone to a local ministry or shelter equipped to provide deeper care. Think Beyond the Moment Some needs require immediate aid. Others require long-term involvement. If someone is suffering because of a disaster or emergency, immediate help may be exactly what is needed. But when poverty is tied to addiction, exploitation, family breakdown, or long-term instability, a developmental approach is often more effective. That may involve relationships, accountability, recovery, job assistance, counseling, and support from a local church or ministry. Most of us cannot meet every need on our own. But we can support trusted ministries that serve the homeless and poor with both compassion and structure. Start With What Is Closest The needs around us can feel overwhelming. Hunger, homelessness, addiction, and poverty are everywhere. We may want to help everyone, but we cannot. Dr. Jones points to the principle of moral proximity. We are often most responsible for the needs closest to us—our family, church, neighborhood, and local community. You may not be able to solve world hunger. But you may be able to help someone in your church, support a local shelter, serve with a ministry, or build a relationship with someone God regularly places in your path. God has not called you to solve every problem. He has called you to be faithful with what is in front of you. Generosity Reflects the Gospel When someone asks for help, we should not respond with contempt or indifference. We should respond as people who have received mercy. That does not mean giving cash every time. But it does mean asking God for wisdom, treating people with dignity, and being prepared to help in ways that truly serve their good. Biblical generosity is both compassionate and discerning. It refuses to look away from need, but it also seeks to help without causing harm. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I recently received a personal injury settlement. After paying off our cars and nearly all our debt, my wife and I have about $50,000 in a high-yield savings account, no kids, no mortgage, and only two small interest-free revolving accounts left. I'm 44, earning about $80,000 to $100,000 a year, and my wife earns about $50,000. Should we invest all of this money, or is it okay to enjoy some of it? What investment options should we consider? We have an investment property that's either paid off or could be paid off with cash. Since it's basically our retirement savings and we're around 55, we're trying to decide whether to keep it or sell it. If we sell, is there a way to roll the proceeds into a retirement plan, and how should we think through that decision? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) 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.

What if generosity isn't something God wants from you, but something He wants for you? Many people approach generosity with hesitation. They hear the word giving and assume a financial ask is coming. They may wonder if generosity will lead to pressure, obligation, or guilt. But biblical generosity is not meant to be a burden. It is an invitation into joy, freedom, and deeper fellowship with God's heart. Todd Harper, co-founder of Generous Giving, has spent more than two decades helping people discover the joy and freedom of biblical generosity. Through Generous Giving's Journey of Generosity experience, he has seen countless people move from viewing giving as an obligation to seeing it as an opportunity. What Is a Journey of Generosity? A Journey of Generosity, often called a JOG, is a one- or two-day conversational experience designed to help people explore what Scripture teaches about generosity. As Todd likes to clarify, “There's no jogging at a JOG.” Instead, participants gather in a pressure-free environment to consider the biblical truth that “it is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). The experience includes teaching, stories, discussion, and reflection. Rather than focusing on fundraising, it creates space for people to think deeply and honestly about generosity. That pressure-free approach is central to the experience. Generous Giving does not ask participants for money during a Journey of Generosity. The goal is not to raise funds for an organization, but to help people encounter the beauty of biblical generosity. Removing the Pressure Around Giving For many people, conversations about generosity can feel uncomfortable because they assume there is an agenda. They expect that any teaching on giving will eventually lead to an ask. Todd understands that hesitation. In fact, he says Generous Giving has to repeat often that there really is no catch. After 25 years of hosting these experiences, the ministry has built a reputation for creating “no strings attached” conversations about generosity. That matters because when people do not feel pressured, they are more likely to engage honestly. Walls come down. People can focus on God's Word, listen to stories of real-life generosity, and reflect on what God may be inviting them into. Instead of asking, “How much do I have to give?” they begin asking, “What joy might God have for me in a more generous life?” From Obligation to Opportunity One of the most powerful shifts that often happens during a Journey of Generosity is the movement from “ought to” to “get to.” Many Christians know they should be generous. They believe giving matters. They may even give faithfully. But they can still experience generosity primarily as a duty, an obligation, or a sacrifice. Biblical generosity invites us into something deeper. God is not merely trying to take something away from us. He is forming us into people who reflect His character. He is loosening our grip on money and possessions so we can experience greater freedom, joy, and trust. As people hear stories of others living radically other-centered lives, generosity often becomes attractive. It begins to look less like a demand and more like an invitation. That change never gets old for Todd. He says one of the great joys of facilitating these experiences is watching people move from giving grudgingly to giving joyfully. God Wants Something Good for You For someone who is still hesitant, Todd's encouragement is simple: God wants something good for you. He recently facilitated a Journey of Generosity where one participant, who had walked with the Lord for 40 years, said the experience changed his perspective on generosity and made him want to lean in. That is the heart of biblical generosity. It is not about pressure. It is not about guilt. It is not about meeting someone else's agenda. It is about discovering the joy of participating in God's work with open hands. Generosity shapes our hearts because it draws us closer to the heart of God. Scripture reminds us that God Himself is generous. He gives life, grace, mercy, provision, and ultimately, His Son. When we grow in generosity, we reflect the character of the One who has given everything for us. Take the Next Step If you would like to explore biblical generosity in a deeper, pressure-free way, consider learning more about a Journey of Generosity through Generous Giving. This one- or two-day experience is designed to help believers think more deeply about generosity, faithful stewardship, and the joy of living with open hands. To learn more, visit GenerousGiving.org. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm helping settle my mom's estate. Most of it in Ohio is resolved, but a small pension is going through probate in another state, where she passed away. The attorney sent paperwork asking me to waive my right to an estate audit. Is that normal, and should I sign it—especially given past financial misbehavior in the estate? Also, should I hire my own attorney to help me navigate this? I was scammed while looking for remote work online by people claiming to be connected with Temu. They had me rate items, then pushed my balance negative and kept asking me to add money. Now the account supposedly shows $25,000, but they won't let me withdraw unless I pay another $30,000. What should I do? I'm single and interested in charitable gift annuities. Can I set one up so a family member or friend receives income after me, rather than a spouse? I'm considering around $10,000. How would that work, and what should I look for? My husband and I were recently introduced to something called the Starfish program. Are you familiar with it, and how can we evaluate whether it's a good idea? I'm 68; my husband is 61 and still working; and my Social Security benefit is low because I was a stay-at-home mom for much of my life. Can I collect Social Security based on my husband's record, and how would that work for both of us? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Generous Giving | Journey of Generosity (JOG) Federal Trade Commission (ReportFraud.ftc.gov) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) 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.

Many retirees spend decades building equity in their homes. But could that equity become a wise tool for stewardship in the next season of life? For many people, the words reverse mortgage raise immediate concerns. Some of those concerns come from outdated information, past abuses, or even a sense of guilt about taking on debt later in life. But is it possible that some retirees have dismissed this option too quickly? Harlan Accola, who leads the reverse mortgage team at Movement Mortgage, joined the show today to help separate myth from reality and explain how today's reverse mortgages may fit into a broader financial plan for some homeowners. Why Reverse Mortgages Have a Stigma Reverse mortgages have carried a strong stigma for years, and according to Accola, some of that reputation was deserved. In the past, there were bad products, bad actors, weak regulation, and not enough consumer protections. Those stories have been passed down through families, churches, and communities, shaping the way many people think about reverse mortgages today. But Accola says today's reverse mortgages are very different, especially when handled by qualified professionals and governed by stronger safeguards. Much of the fear surrounding reverse mortgages is based on outdated information. Many people assume that taking out a reverse mortgage means losing ownership of their home. But that is not how the product works. A reverse mortgage is simply a lien on the property. The homeowner does not lose ownership of the home, and monthly payments are not required. Instead, the loan is repaid later, usually when the borrower sells the home, moves out, or passes away. That distinction matters because many retirees may be making decisions based on fear rather than accurate information. Is All Debt Bad Debt? Another common concern is that reverse mortgages are simply “bad debt.” But Accola points out that not all debt functions the same way. Most people would not have been able to build wealth through homeownership if they had waited until they could pay for their first house in cash. A traditional mortgage often allows families to purchase a home, build equity, and create long-term stability. Of course, some debt can be dangerous. Credit card debt, high-interest loans, and unnecessary consumer debt can quickly become burdensome. Proverbs 22:7 reminds us, “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.” That warning should lead us to approach debt with humility and caution. But a reverse mortgage is different from many other forms of debt because it does not require mandatory monthly payments. That feature may provide flexibility for retirees who are trying to manage cash flow, reduce pressure on investment accounts, or remain in their homes without selling. This does not mean a reverse mortgage is right for everyone. It simply means the question should not be answered by fear or assumptions alone. The better question is whether this tool serves wise stewardship in a specific family's situation. Why Some Christians Feel Guilty For many believers, the hesitation is not only financial—it is spiritual. Some Christians have heard the message that being debt-free automatically makes someone more faithful or responsible. While there is great wisdom in eliminating unnecessary debt, that does not mean every form of debt is morally the same. Accola notes that many retirees still carry mortgage debt into retirement. In fact, many homeowners reach retirement age without having paid off their homes entirely. Others may own their homes but need additional income flexibility. In those situations, shame can become a barrier to wisdom. A retiree may think, “I should have done better,” or “I must not be faithful if I still have a mortgage.” But Scripture does not call us to make financial decisions out of guilt. It calls us to wisdom, prayer, counsel, and trust in God. Stewardship is not about maintaining the appearance of financial success. It is about faithfully managing what God has entrusted to us in this season. For some families, using home equity may be a prudent option. For others, it may not be. But either way, the decision should be made with clarity, not shame. A Tool, Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution A reverse mortgage should never be treated as a magic solution. It is a financial tool, and like any tool, it can be used wisely or unwisely. For some retirees, it may create breathing room in the budget. It may help them stay in their home. It may reduce the need to sell investments during a market downturn. It may also allow them to preserve other assets for longer. But there are also important considerations. Borrowers need to understand the costs, long-term implications, effect on heirs, and responsibilities that remain with the homeowner, such as taxes, insurance, and maintenance. That is why wise counsel is essential. Proverbs 15:22 says, “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.” A reverse mortgage decision should involve qualified professionals, trusted family members, and careful prayer. It should also be considered as part of a broader retirement plan, not in isolation. Don't Decide Based on Fear or Rumors Accola's encouragement to listeners was simple: do not make financial decisions based on fear, rumors, or guilt. Instead, get accurate information. Talk with people you trust. Seek guidance from professionals who understand how reverse mortgages work today. And when appropriate, involve your family so they understand your thinking and your goals. A reverse mortgage is not right for everyone. But for some retirees, it may be a helpful part of a broader stewardship strategy. The key is understanding your options. Faithful stewardship does not mean refusing to consider every financial tool. It means asking wise questions, seeking trustworthy counsel, and making decisions that help you manage God's resources with humility and care. For homeowners in retirement, that may include taking a fresh look at home equity—not as a source of security, but as one possible tool to support faithful living in the next season. Learn More If you'd like to learn more about whether a reverse mortgage could be a wise option for your situation, visit FaithFi.com/Movement. Movement Mortgage serves families in all 50 states and can help you understand how today's reverse mortgages work, what safeguards are in place, and whether this tool may fit into your broader financial plan. That's FaithFi.com/Movement. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 31 and own five properties. I've renovated some myself and built significant equity, but most of my cash is tied up in the homes. Should I sell some properties to free up capital, or hold them, do cash-out refinances, rent them out, and benefit from appreciation and loan paydown? How should I decide between flipping and becoming a landlord? I'm 64 and still working. Because of our income, my wife and I are limited in how much we can contribute to Roth IRAs. I've heard about the backdoor Roth strategy. How does that work, and can the nondeductible IRA contribution go into an existing traditional IRA, or should it be a separate account? I'm trying to pay down my mortgage and a small loan faster. Is it better to make small extra principal payments each month or one larger principal payment once a year? Does it make much difference? I'm 72 and had about $31,000 in credit card debt. After years of disability and financial strain, I called Christian Credit Counselors and started a debt management plan. Now I'm on track to be debt-free in five years, have more usable income each month, and feel encouraged enough to give again. Is it normal to feel this much relief after starting a plan? I'm 61, married, and planning to retire at 67. I have an old employee trust fund with about $8,378 earning 7.5%, plus a traditional IRA with about $3,823. My husband thinks I should roll the trust fund into my IRA. Is that a good idea, especially since it's currently earning 7.5%? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Christian Credit Counselors Movement Mortgage Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) 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.

What if giving is not losing at all, but investing in what lasts forever? Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:20 to “store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” That one command reshapes the way we think about money, possessions, and generosity. Wealth can be dangerous when it owns us, but when it is surrendered to God, it can become a powerful tool for eternal good. Randy Alcorn, bestselling author and founder of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM), has spent decades helping Christians think biblically about money, possessions, generosity, and eternity. His message is both sobering and hopeful: wealth is a test, but it can also become a tool for God's Kingdom. Money Reveals the Heart Money has a powerful influence on our spiritual lives because it reveals what we truly value. Jesus said in Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” The way we handle money is not separate from our discipleship. It shows what we trust, what we prioritize, and where our affections are directed. As Alcorn explains, money is not spiritually insignificant. It has power. Either it will serve God, or we will find ourselves serving it. That is why Scripture speaks so directly about the danger of loving money. In 1 Timothy 6:9–10, Paul warns that “those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare,” and that “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils.” He goes on to say that some have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. Those are sobering words. Money is a good gift from God. It can provide for needs, bless families, support ministry, and help those who are suffering. But when it becomes the object of our trust or the center of our affections, it competes with God for our hearts. Wealth Is Both a Tool and a Test The danger of wealth is real, but it is not the whole story. Money surrendered to God can be used in deeply meaningful ways. It can help advance the gospel. It can meet practical needs. It can support Bible translation, provide clean water, help rescue those trapped in exploitation, care for the vulnerable, and strengthen the work of the local church. Money is not the source of transformation—God is. But God often uses the resources of His people to accomplish His purposes in the world. That is why faithful stewardship begins with surrender. We come before the Lord and say, “This all belongs to You. What do You want me to do with it?” When wealth is surrendered to God, it loses its grip on our hearts and becomes an opportunity to participate in His redemptive work. Giving Is Investing in Eternity Jesus' command to store up treasures in heaven reframes generosity. Giving is not merely parting with money. It is investing in what lasts. Alcorn compares this to investing in a company. When you own shares, you naturally begin to pay attention. You read the reports. You notice the headlines. Your interest follows your investment. The same principle applies spiritually. When we put our resources toward the things of God, our hearts begin to follow. If we want to care more deeply about our church, missions, the poor, or the work of the gospel, one practical step is to invest our time, energy, and money there. Generosity does not only bless the recipient. It reshapes the giver. It moves our hearts toward the Kingdom of God. Generosity Produces Joy In Acts 20:35, Paul reminds the Ephesian elders of Jesus' words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” That does not mean giving is merely a duty. It means generosity leads to joy. The generous life reflects the heart of God, who gives freely and abundantly. Grace itself is rooted in God's giving nature. When we give, we are not simply checking off a spiritual responsibility. We are participating in the generosity of God. That is why giving can loosen anxiety, deepen purpose, and bring joy. The world often defines “the good life” as having more, spending more, and pursuing personal comfort. But Scripture points us toward a better way. In 1 Timothy 6:18–19, Paul urges the wealthy “to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share,” so that they may “take hold of that which is truly life.” The good life is not found in accumulation. It is found in generosity. Defining Enough One of the most important steps in faithful stewardship is learning to define enough. Without a finish line, we can easily assume that every increase in income is meant to raise our lifestyle. But many of us already have more than we need. The question is not simply, “What can I afford?” but “What has God entrusted to me, and how does He want me to use it?” A financial finish line helps create margin for intentional Kingdom-focused generosity. It keeps accumulation from becoming automatic. It invites us to ask better questions about contentment, purpose, and eternal impact. Everything we own is temporary. Possessions wear out. Trends fade. What once felt essential can quickly become clutter. That does not mean material things are evil, but it does mean they cannot bear the weight of our hope. Giving helps break the hold that money and possessions can have on our hearts. Giving Is Not Losing Wealth is both a tool and a test. When we cling to it, it can pull us away from dependence on God. But when we surrender it, money can become a means of worship, service, and eternal investment. Generosity reminds us that God is our ultimate treasure. It trains our hearts to trust Him. It frees us from the illusion that more money will finally make us secure. And it allows us to participate in the work God is doing in the world. Giving is not losing. In the Kingdom of God, giving is investing in what lasts forever. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I live in a 55-plus community in a manufactured home on leased land. We own the home but not the land, which belongs to the community owner. Would a reverse mortgage be possible in this situation, or would a manufactured home on leased land qualify? I have both a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA for retirement, but I'm not retired yet. Why am I required to take RMDs from my IRA at age 72 or 73, even if I'm still working? Do Roth IRAs have RMDs? And how much can my husband and I give through Qualified Charitable Distributions to help reduce taxes? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Money, Possessions, and Eternity by Randy Alcorn The Treasure Principle, Revised and Updated: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving by Randy Alcorn Giving Is the Good Life: The Unexpected Path to Purpose and Joy by Randy Alcorn Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) 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.

Are anxious thoughts stealing your peace? Do you find yourself trapped in a cycle of worry, perfectionism, or rigid control—sometimes without even realizing it? You're not alone, and you don't have to face this struggle in silence. In this episode, the conversation dives deep into the pervasive reality of anxiety—what it feels like, why so many of us miss the signs, and how faith intersects with mental health. Nichole Suvar shares her own journey, from childhood panic attacks no one could name, to adulthood struggles with shame, perfectionism, and even suicidal thoughts. Hear how finally receiving a diagnosis for anxiety and depression brought relief, clarity, and a path to healing—and how opening up about her struggles helped others around her do the same. A key theme that emerged was how many in our generation grew up lacking language for anxiety ("just calm down" or "don't worry" was the advice), while younger generations often recognize these feelings sooner. The discussion explores practical steps for those overwhelmed by worry—from identifying anxious patterns hiding in everyday life, to learning how to relinquish false control and invite God into the struggle. One concept discussed is the illusion that peace can be earned through achieving the "perfect" body, success, or image. Instead, lasting peace is something we cultivate—not manufacture—by returning to God's original design and practicing true stewardship, not unhealthy control (18:48). If you've ever felt ashamed of your anxiety, doubted your faith because of your mental health battles, or wondered when worry crosses the line into something more serious, this episode will meet you with wisdom, compassion, and hope. You'll come away with fresh insight, tangible tools for daily surrender, and the freeing reminder: You don’t have to hold it all together. Listen in to discover: How to spot hidden anxiety—even if you think it’s “just your personality” The practical differences between worry, concern, and clinical anxiety Why control feels soothing, but never truly delivers peace What “cultivating Eden” looks like in a modern world Why God’s peace isn’t achieved, but received—and how to start seeking it today Connect with Nichole Suvar: Website: livewithintent.org Instagram: @nicolejsuvar Book: I Don’t Have to Hold It All Together: Cultivating the Peace of Eden When Feeling Overwhelmed (Amazon affiliate link: Tiny portion of your purchase goes to support Compared to Who? ministry.) If you are ready to release shame, deepen your faith, and discover a new way to walk through anxiety, hit play now. Ready to feel less anxiety around your body image and food issues? Join the next 40-Day Journey which starts June 3rd. Learn more here: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/40-day-challenge Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Work is not merely a way to make a living. It is also one of the primary ways we love our neighbors. Whether you lead a company, teach a class, manage a home, serve in your church, care for children, volunteer in your community, or invest resources for the future, God has entrusted you with influence. That influence is not accidental. It is part of your stewardship. We often think of stewardship in financial terms—and rightly so. But God has given us more than money to steward. He has also entrusted us with skills, relationships, opportunities, knowledge, experience, and influence. Dr. Amy Sherman has spent years helping Christians see their daily work as a means of seeking the common good and participating in God's redemptive mission in the world. She calls this vocational stewardship—the faithful use of our work and influence to reflect God's character, serve others, and contribute to the flourishing of the world around us. What Is Vocational Stewardship? Vocational stewardship begins with the recognition that our work is a gift from God. He has given each of us certain abilities, opportunities, networks, and positions of influence. Some of those gifts are expressed through paid employment. Others are expressed through volunteering, homemaking, caregiving, mentoring, leadership, or service. In every case, the question is the same: How can I use what God has entrusted to me for His purposes? Our work is not simply a platform for earning income. It is a platform for reflecting the kingdom of God. It is one of the places where discipleship becomes visible. That means vocational stewardship is not limited to pastors, missionaries, or people in explicitly ministry-related roles. It applies to business owners, teachers, nurses, engineers, artists, parents, retirees, tradespeople, administrators, and everyone else seeking to serve God faithfully where He has placed them. Wherever we are, God invites us to ask: How can my work help others experience something of His goodness, justice, beauty, compassion, and care? More Than Integrity at Work Faithful work certainly includes character. Christians should be honest, dependable, compassionate, and hardworking. We should do our work with integrity, humility, and excellence. But vocational stewardship presses us to go a step further. It asks us not only to consider how we do our work, but also what our work contributes. What does my work make possible for others?  How does it affect employees, customers, clients, families, communities, or creation?  Does it contribute to healing, order, beauty, justice, provision, or human flourishing? Does it help people experience a small glimpse of what God intends for His world? These questions help us see work as part of God's larger redemptive purposes. A Foretaste of God's Kingdom Scripture gives us a beautiful picture of the future God is bringing about—a renewed creation where there is no more suffering, corruption, injustice, or death. God's kingdom will be marked by peace, wholeness, abundance, community, intimacy with Him, and restored relationships. Vocational stewardship asks: How can my work today offer others a small foretaste of that coming reality? That may sound lofty, but it can become very practical. A business owner might create flexible schedules for employees who are single parents, allowing them to care well for their children. An architect might help clients choose safer building materials and energy-efficient designs that promote health and care for creation. A teacher might create a classroom where students feel seen, challenged, and encouraged. A manager might cultivate a workplace marked by fairness, dignity, and trust. These are not small things. They are glimpses of God's kingdom breaking into ordinary places through ordinary faithfulness. Every Vocation Matters You may be working full-time, raising children at home, caring for aging parents, leading a company, serving in retirement, or volunteering behind the scenes. Whatever your situation, you have been entrusted with something. You have skills, wisdom, relationships, experience, and influence. Vocational stewardship is not about having a certain title. It is about asking, “Where has God placed me, and how can I use what He has given me to serve others?” That question can change the way we see daily life. Work becomes more than a task list. Leadership becomes more than authority. Parenting becomes more than a responsibility. Retirement becomes more than leisure. Investing becomes more than preparation for the future. All of life becomes an opportunity to reflect Christ. Investing as Vocational Stewardship Vocational stewardship also affects the way we think about money—especially investing. Many people view investing primarily as a way to grow wealth and prepare for the future. Those are legitimate concerns. Wise financial planning is part of good stewardship. But investing is also about deploying capital into companies that shape communities, culture, and the marketplace. When we invest, we are helping determine which companies grow and thrive. That means Christians can ask deeper questions about what their investments support. What does this company produce? How does it treat employees? Does it contribute to the well-being of communities? Does it view profit as a means of serving people, or as the ultimate goal? These questions do not eliminate the need for wise financial analysis. But they do remind us that investing is not morally neutral. Our financial decisions can reflect what we value and whom we seek to serve. For someone new to this idea, the first step is simple: become more aware of what you own. Look at the companies represented in your portfolio. Over time, consider whether your investments align with your values and contribute to the kind of world you believe honors God. Work as a Place of Discipleship God deeply cares about our work. Since we spend so much of our lives working, our discipleship must show up there, too. Our workplaces, homes, investments, and communities are not separate from our faith. They are places where we are formed into the image of Christ and where we can embody the good news of the gospel. That does not mean every workday will feel spiritually significant. Much of faithful stewardship looks ordinary: answering emails, making decisions, serving customers, preparing meals, managing employees, helping a neighbor, or showing up with patience when the work is hard. Every act of honesty, compassion, creativity, courage, justice, and service can become a way of reflecting God's character. Faithfulness Where God Has Placed You Your work matters to God. He has placed you where you are for a reason, and He has given you work to do—not only for your provision, but also for the good of others. Vocational stewardship invites us to see our influence differently. Instead of asking only, “What can I earn?” we begin asking, “How can I serve?” Instead of viewing work only as a source of income, we begin to see it as a calling to love our neighbors. And as we do, even our ordinary work can become a glimpse of the world God is making new. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My father-in-law has EE savings bonds that matured in 2023 and are no longer earning interest. Because he has a substantial income, he's considering giving us the bonds so we can cash them in and take on the tax liability instead. Is that allowed, and is it the best way to handle the bonds given his income and tax situation? My company is allowing us to move some 401(k) funds to private investment firms. I have about $1.1 million in my 401(k), and my advisor would charge around 1.99% to manage the funds. Would it be wise to move part of the money to my advisor, or should I keep it in the current 401(k) funds? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Kingdom Calling: Vocational Stewardship for the Common Good by Amy L. Sherman Agents of Flourishing: Pursuing Shalom in Every Corner of Society by Amy L. Sherman Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) 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.

Some of the costliest financial mistakes are made in isolation. When big decisions come our way, pride and pressure can convince us that we need to figure everything out ourselves. But God designed us to walk in community, and His wisdom often comes through trusted voices. Seeking wise counsel is not a sign of weakness—it is a key part of faithful stewardship. Have you ever faced a financial decision that felt heavier than your confidence could carry? Maybe it was whether to buy a home. Perhaps it was changing careers, helping aging parents, navigating a difficult season in marriage, or deciding how to prepare for retirement. In those moments, the questions come quickly: What if I get this wrong? What if I overlook something important? What if I regret this later? And often, beneath all of those questions is the assumption that you should be able to figure it out by yourself. But God never intended for you to walk through life's biggest decisions alone. Wisdom Often Comes Through Community One of the clearest themes in Scripture is that wisdom often comes through community. Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” That is not only a proverb about leadership. It is a principle for everyday life—including our finances. Sometimes we think wisdom is found only in personal research, spreadsheets, calculators, or online content. Those tools can certainly be helpful. But biblical wisdom is more than information. It includes discernment, humility, perspective, and the willingness to receive insight from others. That is why Proverbs 12:15 says, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” Notice the contrast: foolishness is not always recklessness. Sometimes it is simply refusing to listen. Wisdom begins when we acknowledge that we may not see the whole picture. And that takes humility. Humility Opens the Door to Wisdom Proverbs 9:10 tells us, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” To fear the Lord means recognizing that God is God and we are not. We submit our plans, our preferences, and even our financial assumptions to Him. We stop asking only, “What do I want to do?” and begin asking, “Lord, what would You have me do?” That kind of humility also opens us to receive the people God may use in our lives. Sometimes that person is a mentor who has walked through a season you are now entering. Sometimes it is a trusted friend who knows you well enough to ask hard questions. Sometimes it is an older believer whose experience can spare you from avoidable mistakes. And sometimes it is a professional advisor who brings technical expertise shaped by biblical values, such as a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®). But ignoring wise voices can have destructive consequences. Rehoboam's Warning Scripture gives us a sobering example in Rehoboam, the son of Solomon. In 1 Kings 12, when Rehoboam became king, the people asked him to lighten the heavy burdens placed on them. At first, he sought counsel from the older men who had advised his father. They urged him to lead with humility and serve the people. But Rehoboam rejected their wisdom. Instead, he turned to younger voices that echoed his pride and ambition. Their advice was simple: be harsher, be stronger, demand more. He followed their counsel, and the result was devastating. The kingdom was split in two. What began as a leadership decision became a national tragedy. Why? Because Rehoboam preferred affirmation over wisdom. He chose voices that told him what he wanted to hear instead of what he needed to hear. That temptation is still with us today. Wise Counsel Does More Than Validate Us When making financial decisions, we can easily look for voices that justify our desires, reinforce our fears, or confirm what we have already decided. But wise counsel does not merely validate us. It helps us see what we cannot see on our own. Sometimes, wise voices serve as guardrails. They keep us from drifting into the ditches of greed, fear, impulsiveness, or self-reliance. They help us slow down, think clearly, and align our choices with God's purposes. That may mean someone helps you recognize that a purchase is moving too quickly. It may mean an advisor helps you see the long-term impact of a financial decision. It may mean a trusted friend reminds you that generosity, contentment, and faithfulness matter just as much as the numbers. Ultimately, wise counsel leads to wiser decisions. Don't Carry the Decision Alone So, what financial decision are you carrying right now? Maybe it is time to stop carrying it alone. Ask God to show you who He has already placed around you. Make a list of trusted people you can reach out to. Invite wise voices into your decision-making process. Do not isolate. Do not assume asking for help is a weakness. Often, it is one of the strongest acts of stewardship you can make. Faithful stewardship is not just about making the right financial choice. It is about making decisions with humility, wisdom, and dependence on God. And one of the ways God often gives us wisdom is through the people He places around us. If you would like to explore this idea further, you can read more in our new devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship. Order your copy today at FaithFi.com/Shop. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My identity was stolen about five years ago, and I'm still receiving notices for debts and accounts I never opened. I've frozen my credit and disputed the fraudulent charges, but banks and lenders continue turning me down. What else can I do to clean this up? I receive Social Security and a pension. How should I think about giving tithes and offerings from that income? My wife owes me a little over $40,000 from a 0% loan I gave her to help save her late mother's house from foreclosure. We put the agreement in writing, but the repayment period has long passed, and she would have to wipe out her retirement to repay me. I can afford to forgive the loan, but she hasn't asked for forgiveness. From a biblical and marital standpoint, should I forgive it anyway? What's the difference between a living trust and a will, and how do I know which one is better for my estate plan? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) IdentityTheft.gov (Federal Trade Commission) Equifax | TransUnion | Experian LastPass | 1Password | iCloud Keychain Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) 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 long for a life where you are not preoccupied with wondering how you measure up, Dr. Sharon Hodde Miller shares from her book, "Gazing at God: A 40-Day Journey to Greater Freedom from Self." She'll help you identify the wounds, assumptions, and scripts that keep you focused on you. Learn to recognize your God given true self! Originally aired September 17, 2025 Check out Susie's new podcast God Impressions on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts! Faith Radio podcasts are made possible by your support. Give now: click here