Podcast appearances and mentions of rich fool

What does it really mean to be rich toward God? And what does Jesus have to say about the way we handle money, possessions, and our future?Today, Pastor Aaron McRae explores one of Jesus' most challenging parables in Luke 12 — the story often called the Parable of the Rich Fool. When a man interrupts Jesus with a dispute over inheritance, Jesus uses the moment to expose a deeper issue: greed, misplaced security, and a misunderstanding of what life is truly about.Through this teaching, we wrestle with an uncomfortable but freeing truth: Life is not defined by what we accumulate but by how we relate to God and participate in His kingdom.This message invites us to rethink how we approach stewardship—not as obligation, but as an opportunity to trust God and join His work in the world.You'll discover how intentional planning with our resources can lead to deeper faith, greater joy, and eternal impact.Resources: BooksThe Divine Conspiracy — Dallas WillardLuke: That You May Know the Truth — R. Kent HughesKey Bible Passages (NIV)Luke 12:13–21 — The Parable of the Rich FoolLuke 12:31 — Seek God's KingdomMatthew 6:20–21 — Treasures in HeavenCorinthians 16:1–2 — Planned and Proportional GivingActs11:29–30 — Giving as Each Is AbleProverbs 3:9 — Honor the Lord with Your WealthProverbs 21:20 — Wisdom in SavingProverbs 15:27 — The Cost of GreedProverbs 28:27 — Caring for the PoorTimothy 5:17–18 — Supporting Church LeadershipPhilippians 4:14–16 — Supporting MinistryCorinthians 9:7–11 — Sharing in Spiritual Work1 Chronicles 29:1–20 — Giving for God's HouseNumbers 18:21 — Supporting the LevitesExodus 35:20–29 — Giving Toward God's WorkFor the full gathering of this message which includes worship, visit our Youtube channel. Stay Connected With Hillside Community Church.Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/c/HillsideCommunityChurchInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/hillsidechurches/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/hillsidechurchesWebsite | https://hillsidechurches.com

As we continue our Journey to Jerusalem series, Pastor Tom Kang takes an honest look at a struggle many of us know all too well: the urge to equate a successful life with an accumulated one.Digging into Luke 12, we explore the parable of the "Rich Fool"—a cautionary tale about a man who was so busy building bigger barns for his stuff that he completely missed out on the life God had for him. This message challenges us to rethink our definition of a "rich life" and asks a vital question: Is your ultimate trust placed in what you own, or in the One who owns it all?Join us as we learn what it means to live open-handedly and trade the pressure of accumulation for a deep, rich relationship with God.

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” — Matthew 16:26 Those words from Jesus confront one of the deepest questions we can ask about money and success. Jesus spoke them to His disciples as He taught about the cost of following Him. In that moment, He contrasted two pursuits: gaining the world and preserving the soul. The question still echoes today: Is there a spiritual cost to financial success? On today's episode of Faith & Finance, John Rinehart, founder and CEO of Gospel Patrons, joined the show to explore that very question and what Scripture teaches about wealth, work, and spiritual health. The Bible's Honest Warnings About Wealth Financial success itself is not condemned in Scripture. In fact, the Bible includes many faithful believers who possessed great wealth—Abraham, Job, and Lydia among them. Yet Scripture also carries repeated warnings about the spiritual dangers that prosperity can create. As John explained on the show, wealth can be both a blessing and a temptation. The danger arises when our hearts begin to trust money instead of God. Jesus addressed this tension directly in Matthew 6:24: “No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve God and money.” The issue is not the possession of wealth but the mastery of wealth over the human heart. And in a culture that celebrates success, possessions, and financial independence, those warnings are easy to overlook. The Cycle of Success That Can Lead to Spiritual Failure John describes a pattern many people fall into—a cycle of success that can quietly lead to spiritual drift. It often begins with a view of work that centers on earning money so we can eventually rest. We work hard, pursue success, and over time, our effort produces prosperity. Hard work and prosperity themselves are not wrong. In fact, Scripture often affirms diligence. But prosperity introduces a new danger. As John noted during the conversation, success can gradually lead us to forget the God who provided it in the first place. When we begin to see wealth as the product of our own ability rather than God's provision, our dependence on Him begins to fade. Before long, success that once felt like a blessing can become a spiritual trap. The Warning of the Rich Fool Jesus illustrates this danger in the Parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12:16–21. In the story, a farmer experiences an abundant harvest. Faced with overflowing crops, he decides to tear down his barns and build bigger ones to store them all. From a purely financial perspective, his plan sounds wise. But Jesus reveals the deeper problem. The man begins speaking to himself as though his wealth guarantees security and ease: “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.” — Luke 12:19 Then comes the shocking turn. “But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you.'” — Luke 12:20 The problem wasn't the harvest—it was forgetting God. This story hits close to home in a culture that often equates success with building bigger barns. The Danger of Forgetting the Source This warning appears long before Jesus told that parable. As Israel prepared to enter the Promised Land, Moses cautioned them about the spiritual risks that accompany prosperity. In Deuteronomy 8:17–18, he warned: “Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.' You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth.” John highlighted this verse as a key reminder: even the ability to create wealth is a gift from God. When we forget that truth, wealth easily shifts from blessing to idol. When Wealth Chokes Out Spiritual Fruit Jesus also warned that wealth can quietly interfere with spiritual growth. In the Parable of the Sower, He describes seeds that begin growing but are eventually overwhelmed by thorns. He explains the meaning in Mark 4:19: “The cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.” John also noted how startling that statement is. The Word of God is powerful, yet Jesus says the deceitfulness of riches can still choke its fruitfulness in a person's life. Wealth promises security and satisfaction—but it often delivers anxiety and distraction instead. God's Better Rhythm for Life Thankfully, Scripture offers a healthier path. John explained that instead of structuring life around work and wealth, God invites us into a different rhythm—one that begins with rest. The Sabbath command in Exodus 20:8–10 reminds us that our lives are not sustained by constant productivity. Rest re-centers our hearts. It draws our attention back to God through worship, Scripture, and time with the community of faith. From that place of rest, work becomes something different. Instead of merely trading time for money, work becomes an act of service and worship—an opportunity to use the gifts God has given us to bless others. When prosperity comes from that posture, it is received differently. Instead of assuming ownership, we begin to recognize stewardship. As Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us, God is the one who provides the power to create wealth. That truth reshapes how we think about money. Our resources are no longer simply tools for personal comfort—they become opportunities to participate in God's work. And that leads naturally to generosity. The Role of “Gospel Patrons” John's ministry, Gospel Patrons, highlights a powerful biblical pattern. Throughout Scripture and church history, movements of God have often been supported by generous believers whose financial resources helped fuel gospel work. Even during Jesus' ministry, Luke 8:3 tells us that several women helped support Him and His disciples “out of their means.” These supporters—often business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals—play a vital role in advancing the mission of God. They may not always preach sermons or travel as missionaries, but their faithful stewardship enables those ministries to flourish. Your Work Can Matter for Eternity One of the most encouraging points Reinhardt shared on the program is that believers working in business or professional careers are not second-class participants in God's Kingdom. Your daily work matters. When your work is offered to God, your resources stewarded faithfully, and your generosity directed toward His mission, your life becomes part of something eternal. Financial success does not have to lead to spiritual failure. When we remember the source of our wealth and steward it with humility and generosity, our work can become a powerful instrument in advancing God's Kingdom. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 68 and recently retired. With a home for sale and significant cash on hand, I'm trying to determine the best way to begin withdrawing from my 401(k) without pushing myself into a higher tax bracket before RMDs begin. What's the best strategy? My husband and I are doing Roth conversions, and our CPA suggested funding a charitable giving account to offset the taxes and then using it for our regular tithe. Is it biblically and ethically appropriate to tithe from a charitable account like that? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Gospel Patrons Gospel Patrons: People Whose Generosity Changed The World by John Rinehart Breaking the Cycle (Article by John Rinehart in Faithful Steward Magazine, Issue 1) An Uncommon Guide to Retirement: Finding God's Purpose for the Next Season of Life by Jeff Haanen Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship 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.

Stewardship of Money & Possessions: do you have a Money problem or a Master problem? Pastor Corey reads the Parable of the Rich Fool and points out that we aren't meant to be reservoirs with our money. We're meant to be rivers — ever flowing and connected to the main source, our Heavenly Father.

What if the American Dream is actually making you spiritually broke?

TLCC

In this episode, we welcome Amber Baker, Minister of Seekers and Skeptics, as we begin our Lent series, Scandal of the Kindom. Reflecting on Luke 12:13–24, we explore Jesus' parable of the rich fool, the difference between wise stewardship and fear-driven hoarding, and what it means to live in God's economy of mutual care. 

Jesus exposes the lie that life is found in more–more money, more stuff, more security, more control. This parable warns us how easily wealth can shrink our vision and isolate us from others. The Kingdom reframes our resources around generosity, gratitude, and readiness for God's purposes.⚫CONNECT WITH US:

Luke 12:13-34 All of us want to live well: to get to the end of our life and to know we didn't waste it. Jesus tells a famous story about someone who seems to win at life, and yet when God appraises his life at the end, it turns out he had utterly failed in the only thing that really counts. Join us as we listen to Jesus' teaching on How not to waste your life.

"The Rich Fool and The Heart's Treasure"Luke 12:13-34Rev. Craig Luekens1.18.26Bulletin: http://files.cpcnewhaven.org/bulletin...

"The Rich Fool and The Heart's Treasure"Luke 12:13-34Rev. Craig Luekensoriginally recorded on 1.19.26

Jesus' parable of The Rich Fool challenges how we think about money, security, and success. In Luke 12:13–21, Jesus reminds us that life is not measured by what we accumulate—but by how we live rich toward God. Are we depending on wealth, control, and ourselves—or on God, who provides what truly lasts?

We are so thankful you've started the new year here at Church 213. Knowing God and walking with Him is possible and is best exemplified when we follow the words of Jesus.Our new series, titled “The Parables: A Serious Walk with Jesus,” will unpack the parables of Jesus—stories that bring clarity, life-changing meaning, and vivid imagery to what a serious walk with Jesus truly looks like.Here at Church 213, doctrine is our bedrock, unity is our glue, ethics are our power, and Jesus is our King. We're praying for you today as you listen to and study God's Word.

What if the thing you're chasing for peace is actually stealing it from you? In Luke 12, Jesus tells a story about a man whose problem wasn't lack, but abundance. The Parable of the Rich Fool exposes a lie many of us quietly believe: If I can just get a little more, then I'll finally be okay. In this message, “The Folly of More,” Jesus warns us that life is not measured by what we own, but by who owns our hearts.

Verse by Verse – Parables, Week 12Pastor Nathan Zickert · Luke 12:16–21A video recording of this sermon is available here.For more information about Grace Community Church of Riverside, visit us online at https://www.gccriverside.com.

Luke 12:13-21 Nick Watts // Executive Pastor of Discipleship

THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL.  Jesus tells the story of a man who tore down his barns to build bigger ones, so that he could store all of his material wealth safely for years to come. But God demanded his life suddenly, that very night.  And the lesson is, "Thus will it be for the one who stores up treasure for himself, but is not rich in what matters to God." Join the conversation: anycatholicconversation@gmail.com 

Today Fr. Philip encourages us as we continue on our journey through the Nativity season. Father weaves together the parable of the Rich Fool and the life of the Theotokos, demonstrating how one who follows God should be rich. You can find his blog with this reflection and more in written form at https://easternchristianinsights.blogspot.com

Today Fr. Philip encourages us as we continue on our journey through the Nativity season. Father weaves together the parable of the Rich Fool and the life of the Theotokos, demonstrating how one who follows God should be rich. You can find his blog with this reflection and more in written form at https://easternchristianinsights.blogspot.com

Sermon given on 11/23/25.

The Parable of the Rich Fool

Living in modern America we have a lot to be thankful for. In the Gospel Parable of the Rich Fool, we are challenged to understand that all the great blessings we have received are from God, not for us but for others. The time has come for us to give thanks to God, not only in words but by allowing God to use us to bless others. The blessings we receive from God are not for us, but for us to bless others.

A Thanksgiving Reflection

Time Stamps:0:00 - Intro0:58 - Coffee Segment (Valor Coffee)4:23 - Notetaking: Digital vs. Pen & Paper10:33 - Parable Discussion: "The Rich Fool"References:This Week's Coffee (Valor Coffee): https://valor.coffee/The Parables of Jesus (James Montgomery Boice): https://tinyurl.com/3vztan5tSend us questions: pbclc.com/podcastWebsite: pbclc.com Facebook: facebook.com/pbclc Instagram: @pbclc

This week, we kicked off a two-week sermon series on Generosity by looking at the Parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12:13-21. What does God's Word say about greed and generosity? 

Alan Barnhart grew up in Memphis, where his parents ran a small crane and rigging company. After college he sensed a call to missions just as his parents invited him and his brother to take over the family business. As he wrestled with the decision, God's answer was clear; Alan's full-time ministry was the business world. From day one, the brothers regarded the company as God's. To guard against the spiritual risks of wealth, Alan set a “lifestyle finish line,” capping his personal income at the level of a ministry worker. They also committed to give 50% of annual profits to God's Kingdom. Over the next 39 years, the once-small firm grew toward a billion-dollar enterprise and now channels millions each year into gospel work. Later, Alan and his brother formalized their conviction by transferring 100% of their ownership to a charitable trust, while continuing to lead the company. Alan's example has inspired a generation of givers to steward their families, businesses, and resources with wisdom and courage. You won't want to miss this story. Major Topics Include: Avoiding the dangers of wealth Finding freedom in a financial finish line How God led him to give away his company while still being it's steward Thinking though what to do with profit Developing relationship with the recipients of your generosity  Generosity decisions as a group Responsive giving vs. strategic giving Differences between giving from business capital and giving from personal capital Making difficult decisions in generosity  Relational aspects of being as a business and generosity leader Managing a capped lifestyle with children Thinking through company succession Stewarding your generosity story QUOTES TO REMEMBER “God, I'll go wherever you want me to go.” “My full time ministry was going to be in the business world.” “Jesus warned about money more than He warned about anything else.” “Contentment doesn't come from stuff, it comes from enjoying what you already have.” “Holding things with an open hand has led to freedom.” “God isn't trying to extract something from us. He doesn't want our money, He wants us.” “Generosity breaks the power of greed.” “We say no to 99% of giving opportunities so we can give a big yes to the 1% we support.” “We want to be as strategic in our giving of money as we are in our making of money.” “What does God want us to do with His money?” “There is work to being a steward.” “What we're doing is not crazy.” “We didn't see the company as ours, so our kids never saw it as theirs.” “Be a steward of your story as much as you are a steward of your money, because your story may change someone else's life.” LINKS FROM THE SHOW Young Life Journey to Generosity (JoG) with Generous Giving (see our interviews with cofounder, Todd Harper and CEO, April Chapman) Rich Christians in the Age of Hunger by Ronald J. Sider National Christian Foundation (see our interview with President Emeritus, David Wills) The Finish Line Community Facebook Group The Finish Line Community LinkedIn Group BIBLE REFERENCES FROM THE SHOW Matthew 19:23 | A Warning for the Rich   And Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, only with difficulty will a rich person enter the kingdom of heaven.   Matthew 6:24 | Choose Your Master   “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.   Matthew 6:19-20 | Treasures in Heaven   “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust[e] destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.   Luke 12:13-21 | The Parable of the Rich Fool   1 Timothy 6:6-7 | Godliness with Contentment   But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world.   Luke 21:1-4 | The Widow's Offering   Matthew 5:16 | Your Good Works Give Glory to the Father   In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.   Matthew 6:3-4 | A Time for Giving in Secret But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! If you have a thought about something you heard, or a story to share, please reach out! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. You can also contact us directly from our contact page. If you want to engage with the Finish Line Community, check out our groups on Facebookand LinkedIn.

We all ask it: "Where did it go?" Our paychecks disappear, our budgets feel tight, and financial stress is more normal than financial peace. But the problem isn't just math—it's mission. This series explores what Scripture says about debt, tithing, and eternal investment, helping people not just manage money better but trust God more deeply and live more generously. Jesus tells the story of the Rich Fool—a man who thought more stuff would bring more security, but died before he could enjoy it. His mistake wasn't being rich—it was trusting in riches. In the same way, many today are buried under debt, trying to live lives we can't afford in pursuit of peace we can't buy. Debt promises freedom but delivers slavery (Proverbs 22:7). This week challenges us to stop letting money control us and instead take back our margin by putting God first. Passage: Luke 12:13-21; Proverbs 22:7 Speaker: Kevin Stiles

We all ask it: "Where did it go?" Our paychecks disappear, our budgets feel tight, and financial stress is more normal than financial peace. But the problem isn't just math—it's mission. This series explores what Scripture says about debt, tithing, and eternal investment, helping people not just manage money better but trust God more deeply and live more generously. Jesus tells the story of the Rich Fool—a man who thought more stuff would bring more security, but died before he could enjoy it. His mistake wasn't being rich—it was trusting in riches. In the same way, many today are buried under debt, trying to live lives we can't afford in pursuit of peace we can't buy. Debt promises freedom but delivers slavery (Proverbs 22:7). This week challenges us to stop letting money control us and instead take back our margin by putting God first. Passage: Luke 12:13-21; Proverbs 22:7 Speaker: Josh Edwards

We all ask it: "Where did it go?" Our paychecks disappear, our budgets feel tight, and financial stress is more normal than financial peace. But the problem isn't just math—it's mission. This series explores what Scripture says about debt, tithing, and eternal investment, helping people not just manage money better but trust God more deeply and live more generously. Jesus tells the story of the Rich Fool—a man who thought more stuff would bring more security, but died before he could enjoy it. His mistake wasn't being rich—it was trusting in riches. In the same way, many today are buried under debt, trying to live lives we can't afford in pursuit of peace we can't buy. Debt promises freedom but delivers slavery (Proverbs 22:7). This week challenges us to stop letting money control us and instead take back our margin by putting God first. Passage: Luke 12:13-21; Proverbs 22:7 Speaker: Kevin Ozolins

Epic StorytellerRich Fool | Luke 12:13-21Brett Berger // Pastor of Theological Formations

What if tomorrow isn't promised? What if today is all you had? How seriously would you take your faith, then? This parable was told by Jesus as a warning to anyone who says, “I'll take my faith seriously once I _______.” That sentence can be filled with a myriad of different things. “I'll take my faith seriously when I finish college.” “I'll take my faith seriously once I have a career.” The truth is, we don't know when our time will come. The time we have here on this earth is precious, and what a waste it turns out to be if we take all this time pursuing material wealth over spiritual riches Go to JesusPodcast.com and receive daily devotionals about Jesus.Today's Bible verse is Mark 16:6 from the King James Version.Download the Pray.com app for more Christian content including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Pray.com is the digital destination for faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Catch up with Boys' Lunch as we talk about former student sightings and happenings at the school. We start a series on the vanity of the world, the ugliness of sin, the Parable of the Rich Fool, mortality, grief, death and so much more! Hope your little ears enjoy this

Aaron LeDuc – Luke 12:13-34

Charles Spurgeon once said, “Consider how precious a soul must be, when both God and the devil are after it.” The story of the Rich Young Ruler in Matthew 19 shows us just how true that is. This young man approached Jesus with a pressing question: “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?”What followed was a conversation that revealed not only his heart but also the way possessions can grip any of us more deeply than we realize.A Revealing QuestionAt first glance, the man seemed sincere. But notice his words: “What good thing must I do?” He assumed that eternal life could be earned—checked off like an item on a list. Jesus, however, had just finished telling the crowd that the Kingdom belongs to those who receive it like children, wholly dependent on God's goodness. The man either missed or resisted that truth.When Jesus pointed him to the commandments, it wasn't because those could save him. It was to reveal what held the highest place in his heart. Outwardly, he looked moral. Inwardly, his wealth had become his god.When the man pressed further, Jesus cut to the core: “Go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” Matthew 19:22 records the heartbreaking result: “When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful, for he had many possessions.”The issue wasn't money—it was devotion. Jesus loved him enough to name the one thing keeping him from life. For him, it was wealth. For us, it might be something else—career, reputation, control. Whatever we prize above Christ must be surrendered.What This Means for UsDoes this mean every believer is called to sell everything? Not necessarily. As the NIV Study Bible notes, Jesus's command applied directly to this man's spiritual condition. But the principle still stands: anything we cling to more tightly than Christ can become a barrier to faith.After the man walked away, Jesus warned His disciples: “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” Wealth is not evil, but it has the unique power to enslave us.So the question for us is this: What competes for your devotion? What gives you a sense of identity or security apart from Christ?Jesus's words to the Rich Young Ruler are both sobering and full of hope. Wealth can blind us to our need for God, but surrendering to Christ leads to true life. The invitation is the same today: Will we cling to temporary treasures, or embrace the eternal treasure of knowing Him?Because the problem isn't wealth, the problem is worship.———————————————————————————————————————At FaithFi, we often talk about being “rich toward God,” a phrase Jesus used in Luke 12 when warning about the Rich Fool. It means treasuring Christ above all else, practicing generosity, and holding our resources with open hands.That's why we've created the Rich Toward God study, designed to help you see money and possessions from God's perspective and reorient your heart toward eternal treasure. You can order a copy—or even place a bulk order for group study—at FaithFi.com/Shop.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband and I have a blended family with some grown kids and some still at home. How should we set up the beneficiaries on our term life insurance?Our bank suggested that we keep our HELOC open even after the mortgage is paid off, as protection against fraudulent title transfers. Is that sound advice?I have savings bonds that have matured, and I'd like to add a co-owner. Since banks no longer handle this, how can I update the registration?I'm trying to help my 81-year-old mother understand reverse mortgages, and also explain to my siblings how it would work if she gets one—especially what happens to the home's value after she passes away.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)TreasuryDirectUnderstanding Reverse: Simplifying the Reverse Mortgage by Dan HultquistMovement MortgageWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Some people think being rich means owning a lot of things—when in reality, being “rich” often means a lot of things owning you. The signs of wealth are all around us: luxury cars, upscale neighborhoods, designer clothes, vacation homes. But do possessions really make people rich in a way that matters?It's hard to keep a Christ-centered perspective on wealth when our culture constantly pressures us to want more, buy more, and accumulate more. But this isn't a new problem. Jesus warned in Luke 12:15:“Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”Money and possessions aren't inherently bad, but they often tempt us toward greed, selfishness, and discontent. We need money to live, but when money becomes the main thing, it becomes a dangerous master.When Possessions Begin to Possess YouJesus doesn't just warn against greed—He offers us the key to true life: don't make your existence all about “the abundance of possessions,” or your possessions will start to possess you. Proverbs 23:4–5 echoes this wisdom:“Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone…”Material things can never give your heart what it truly craves.In Luke 12, Jesus tells the story of a wealthy man who tears down his barns to build bigger ones, dreaming of a long, comfortable retirement. But before he can enjoy it, God says:“You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?”Jesus concludes, “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”The man's tragedy wasn't just that his life ended suddenly—it was that he invested his soul in temporary abundance instead of eternal riches.Eternity Written on Our HeartsEcclesiastes 3:11 reminds us that God has “set eternity in the human heart.” Deep down, we long for meaning, purpose, and eternal life—not just more stuff. C. S. Lewis put it well:“Aim at Heaven and you will get Earth ‘thrown in': aim at Earth and you get neither.”True abundance is found in knowing God, walking with Him, and letting His love overflow into the way we love others.Jesus said in John 10:10, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” And in John 15:5, He promised, “Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit.”The abundant life isn't about bigger barns or fuller closets—it's about abiding in Christ. When we do, our lives bear fruit that blesses others and glorifies God.Where Is Your Treasure?So ask yourself: What are you depending on to give your life meaning? Could some of those things be quietly taking God's place in your heart?Pray for the Lord to uproot those desires and refocus your attention on Him. Because true wealth isn't found in what you own—it's found in who owns you.That's why we created Rich Toward God—a 4-week study on the Parable of the Rich Fool. It unpacks what it means to live open-handed with your finances, showing how biblical wisdom doesn't just transform your bank account—it transforms your heart.You can order your copy—or place a bulk order for your group—by visiting FaithFi.com and clicking “Shop.”On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm unsure how to handle requests for financial help from my husband's son and his family. They face ongoing money struggles and sometimes ask us for assistance, but I'm concerned that giving could be enabling poor decisions, like spending on things that don't reflect our values. How can we approach this situation with wisdom and biblical discernment?I already have a financial advisor and some investments in place, but I want to make sure my money is supporting companies that align with my faith. Is there a tool or resource that can help me evaluate whether my investments are consistent with biblical values?I have a will, and all my investments already list beneficiaries. My advisor says a trust isn't necessary, but my children believe it's the best way to avoid probate. Do I really need a trust? Also, since my husband passed away, should I update my will and the deed to my home?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)List of Faith-Based Investment FundsWise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan, J.D.Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Businessman and author T. Harv Eker once wrote, “Financial freedom is the ability to live the lifestyle you desire without having to work or rely on anyone else for money.”It's tempting to think that financial independence is the ultimate goal of life—but what does the Bible say? God's Word points us toward a far better kind of freedom.In recent years, financial independence has become a cultural ideal. People long to be self-sufficient, debt-free, and free to pursue their passions. While these desires can be wise, they also carry a subtle danger: believing we don't need anyone—including God.The Warning of the Rich FoolThis temptation isn't new. In Luke 12, Jesus told a parable about a wealthy man who thought he had “made it”:“I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and goods. And I will say to my soul, ‘You have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, and be merry.'”But God's response was sobering:“Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?”The man's sin wasn't wealth itself—it was trusting in wealth instead of God. His independence became his idol. In contrast, Proverbs 30 records a prayer from Agur:“Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me, lest I be full and deny you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?' or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God.”Agur understood the heart of stewardship: daily dependence on God. Too little can lead to desperation; too much can lead to pride. The goal isn't independence, but faithful reliance on the Lord.Three Questions to Evaluate Your GoalsAs you think about your own financial journey, consider these questions:Am I placing my trust in money? Retirement savings and emergency funds are wise, but security must come from God, not a balance sheet.Am I trying to eliminate work entirely? Work is part of God's good design. Even in retirement, we're called to meaningful contribution.Am I paying off debt just for myself? Debt-free living is good, but its ultimate purpose is to gain the freedom to serve, give, and advance God's Kingdom.So, is financial independence biblical? It depends.If independence means replacing God with money, then no.If independence means freedom for generosity, stewardship, and dependence on God, then yes—it reflects something greater than wealth: a life rich toward God.Scripture reminds us that “He richly provides us with everything to enjoy” (1 Timothy 6:17) and that “every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17). But those gifts were never meant to replace the Giver.A Resource for Going DeeperIf you'd like to explore this more, check out our 4-Week study, Rich Toward God. This study walks through Jesus' Parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12, helping you discover what truly drives your financial decisions and how to align your resources with God's Kingdom purposes.You can get your copy—or place a bulk order for your church or small group—by visiting FaithFi.com and clicking the Shop tab.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've had multiple jobs with 401(k) benefits over the years, but I've struggled to stay organized with my finances. How can I get a handle on everything, and would it be wise to work with a financial advisor?My 16-year-old daughter received a $200,000 settlement after being hit by a car. Once she turns 18, she'll gain full access to the money, and I'm very concerned she'll misuse it. What options do I have to protect her from receiving it all at once?I have an adult son with autism who is on the Florida Med Waiver, which limits him to $2,000 in his checking account. I'm worried about how he'll be provided for in the future. Is there a way to set aside money for his care without affecting his benefits?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Open Hands FinanceABLE National Resource CenterUnderstanding ABLE Accounts With Matt Syverson (Faith and Finance Episode)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Today, Pastor Jack teaches that riches are not foolish, nor are they evil. It is the human heart that takes the blessings of God and condemns the very things that God would like us to use for His glory.

Today, Pastor Jack teaches that there is a pattern of thinking and living in what this parable calls a fool. When there is no thought of God, or to assist others, we can fall into temptation; A snare that comes with terrible consequences.

Today, Pastor Jack teaches that it seems right to consult our own thoughts, and we often push back on God's plan. But, when we're self-insured in our own security of riches, we fail to bless others with our abundance.

Today, Pastor Jack teaches that building up our wealth while thinking that it's never enough, is a sure sign that God is the last thing on our minds. To be rich is not foolish, but blessings can be a curse, when we refuse to use what we have for God's glory.

Today, Pastor Jack teaches that when we fail to think of design, we fail to include God in our plans for life. Whether we have plenty, or in lack, we can be taken up by materialism, not seeing that everything is a gift given by God.

Today, Pastor Jack teaches that we often forget how it all begins with God, and the blessing that comes when we're generous with what we have. Wealth is not the issue, it's what we do with it that makes all the difference to God.