Faith & Finance

Scripture reminds us that wisdom often begins with counting the cost. As the average age of a first-time homebuyer approaches 40, many people are asking an important and sincere question: Is now the right time to buy a home—or should we continue renting? That question usually reflects a desire to make a wise, lasting decision—one that supports long-term stability rather than undermining it. Before comparing monthly payments or imagining life in a new space, it’s worth taking a clear-eyed look at what it truly costs to move from renting into homeownership. The Upfront Costs Many First-Time Buyers Miss One of the biggest surprises for first-time buyers is the sheer cost of getting into a home. The pre-approval and closing process involves numerous expenses, including appraisals, inspections, credit reports, earnest money, title searches, loan origination fees, and closing costs. Taken together, these can add up to thousands of dollars before move-in day ever arrives. For renters transitioning to homeownership, these costs are typically paid out of pocket. That’s one reason many advisors encourage having close to 20% of the purchase price available—not only for a down payment, but to create margin for the entire process. This isn’t about delaying dreams unnecessarily; it’s about ensuring homeownership doesn’t begin with financial strain. Many renters feel a growing weariness with paying rent month after month, especially compared with building equity. That desire for something tangible and lasting is understandable—but it’s important to remember that rent is not wasted money. Rent pays for shelter, safety, maintenance, and predictability. It meets a real and ongoing need and, in that sense, pays for a valuable service. During certain seasons of life, that flexibility and stability can be a wise and intentional choice. Understanding What a Mortgage Really Includes It’s also helpful to understand how a mortgage payment actually works. A typical payment includes principal, interest, property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and often private mortgage insurance if you own less than 20% of the home’s value. In some cases, HOA fees are also added. In the early years of a traditional 30-year mortgage, a significant portion of each payment goes toward interest rather than reducing the loan balance. Thirty-year mortgages can still be wise—they keep payments manageable and allow flexibility if you want to make extra principal payments—but they are designed to be long-term loans. Early equity growth often comes more from market appreciation than from paying down the balance. Rising home prices can create fear about waiting too long, pushing buyers to act before they’re ready. While market trends are worth paying attention to, they shouldn’t be the deciding factor. A home should fit your current season of life and support your responsibilities and priorities—not stretch your finances or limit your ability to live and give faithfully. It also helps to release the pressure of finding a “forever home.” On average, first-time buyers stay in their homes seven to ten years. Career changes, growing families, and life transitions often make moving a natural part of the journey. The first home simply needs to perform well in the current season. Rising Costs Don’t Disappear with Ownership Rising rents are another common frustration, especially when lease renewals result in higher monthly costs. But owning a home doesn’t eliminate rising expenses. While a fixed-rate mortgage keeps principal and interest steady, property taxes and homeowner’s insurance typically increase over time. Even after a mortgage is paid off, those costs remain. Maintenance is another reality worth considering. Once you own a home, repairs are your responsibility—roofs, plumbing, electrical systems, and heating or cooling issues can bring unexpected expenses. While insurance offers protection, deductibles and coverage limits often mean high out-of-pocket costs, and...

Counterfeits are dangerous precisely because they look convincing. The same is true of spiritual sayings that sound biblical but quietly distort how we think about God, stewardship, and money. Many believers can quote phrases that feel deeply spiritual—comforting even—but when placed under the light of Scripture, they don’t actually appear there at all. Or worse, they twist what Scripture truly says. These “counterfeit verses” often shape how we view success, risk, provision, and dependence on God without us even realizing it. To explore this issue, we sat down with Taylor Standridge, Production Manager of FaithFi and a regular contributor to Faithful Steward. Taylor is also the lead writer behind Look at the Sparrows and Our Ultimate Treasure. In his recent article, Counterfeit Verses: How to Spot The Sayings That Aren’t in the Bible, Taylor traces this problem all the way back to the beginning. “Did God Really Say?”—The First Counterfeit Taylor begins in Genesis 3, when the serpent approaches Eve with a deceptively subtle question: “Did God really say…?” (Genesis 3:1). This moment is critical because the enemy doesn’t begin with an outright lie. Instead, he distorts what God has said and, in doing so, undermines God’s character. The implication isn’t merely that the command is questionable—but that God Himself may be withholding something good. Once Adam and Eve doubt God’s goodness, disobedience follows naturally. That same pattern persists today. Many modern financial lies—whether cultural narratives or counterfeit verses—aren’t blatant falsehoods. They’re half-truths. They sound wise. They feel spiritual. And because they’re close enough to the truth, they feel safe. Like a ship that veers off course by only one degree, the deviation seems harmless at first. But over time, it leads somewhere very different from what was intended. At the heart of every counterfeit is the same ancient question: Can God really be trusted? Counterfeit verses don’t come with warning labels. They borrow biblical language, appeal to our emotions, and speak to real desires—hope, comfort, identity, and security. Sometimes they even quote Scripture, but rip it out of context. The danger isn’t familiarity with Scripture—it’s fragmented familiarity. When we know verses as slogans rather than as part of God’s larger story, we become vulnerable to subtle distortions. The goal, however, isn’t suspicion or cynicism. It’s discernment—learning to recognize when a truth has been nudged just slightly off course. Studying the Real Thing: A Lesson from Counterfeit Currency Taylor uses a powerful illustration from the film Catch Me If You Can. Frank Abagnale Jr. succeeds as a forger not by inventing fake money from scratch, but by studying the real thing in obsessive detail—down to the ink, paper, and watermarks. Ironically, that expertise later makes him invaluable to the FBI. Banks don’t train tellers by showing them every possible fake. They train them by handing them genuine currency until authenticity becomes instinctive. The same is true of Scripture. Discernment doesn’t come from memorizing every error—it comes from knowing God’s Word so deeply that when something sounds “almost right,” you can feel that it isn’t. Common Counterfeit Verses That Shape Our View of Money “Money is the Root of All Evil” This misquote radically reshapes our theology of money. If money itself is evil, then wealth becomes suspicious, and stewardship feels compromising. But Scripture says something far more searching: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils” (1 Timothy 6:10). The issue isn’t possession—it’s devotion. Scripture doesn’t demonize money; it disciples our hearts. “God Helps Those Who Help Themselves” This phrase flips the gospel upside down. It places self-sufficiency at the center and turns God into a backup plan. Biblically, grace always comes first. God meets us in our need, not our strength. Stewardship, then, isn’t...

What would you call a marriage where spouses see “eye to eye” about money? Some might call it bliss. It’s true that most couples at least occasionally quarrel about their finances. But could a better understanding of each other’s values help spouses avoid that bickering? Shaunti Feldhahn thinks so, and she joins us today to talk about it. Shaunti Feldhahn is a Harvard graduate, former Wall Street analyst, social researcher, best-selling author, and a prominent public speaker. She is the co-author of Thriving in Love and Money: 5 Game-Changing Insights about Your Relationship, Your Money, and Yourself, written with her husband, Jeff, and has co-authored several other books with him, revealing impactful truths about relationships at home and in the workplace. A Lesson Learned Over Dinner Shaunti and her husband, Jeff, learned this lesson early in their marriage. Living in New York, they often ate out due to their demanding schedules. However, a seemingly small issue—ordering a Diet Coke—would trigger recurring arguments. Jeff, concerned about their financial future and mounting student loan debt, saw the expense as unnecessary, while Shaunti viewed it as a simple enjoyment that enhanced her meal. It wasn't until years later, during their research for their book Thriving in Love & Money, that they realized their conflict stemmed from differing values. Jeff prioritized financial security, while Shaunti valued the experience and enjoyment of a meal. Once they uncovered this, they could communicate more effectively and honor each other's perspectives. The Root of Money Conflicts in Marriage Financial disagreements often arise because couples fail to recognize and respect each other's values. In Shaunti and Jeff’s national study, they found that: For example, one spouse might see value in spending money on a gym membership for networking and health benefits, while the other might believe household essentials from Costco are a better use of resources. The key takeaway? Neither perspective is wrong—both are rooted in deeply held values. The Power of Communication The solution to money conflicts isn’t just budgeting or financial planning; it’s communication. It’s crucial that couples discuss not just what they want to spend money on, but why it matters to them. By having open and honest conversations about financial priorities, couples can: While couples can work through these issues on their own, it can be very beneficial to seek guidance from financial advisors—especially those with a biblical perspective. Kingdom Advisors, for example, are trained to address not just the numbers, but the relational and spiritual aspects of money management. Advisors can help couples navigate tough conversations, align their financial goals with their values, and ultimately steward their resources in a way that honors God and strengthens their marriage. At the heart of every financial decision in marriage lies an opportunity to foster unity rather than division. God cares just as much about the marriage as He does about the finances. By understanding and honoring each other’s values, couples can turn money from a source of conflict into an instrument of peace and purpose. ———————————————————————————————— Shaunti Feldhahn’s full article, “Money in Marriage: It’s a Matter of Value,” appears in the 1st issue of Faithful Steward magazine. When you become a FaithFi Partner with a monthly gift of $35 (or $400 annually), you’ll receive Faithful Steward magazine and other exclusive resources to help you grow as a faithful steward. Visit FaithFi.com/Partner to learn more. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Thriving in Love and Money: 5 Game-Changing Insights about Your Relationship, Your Money, and Yourself by Shaunti and Jeff FeldhahnOur Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful StewardshipWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from...

The holidays are behind us; you know what that means—it’s tax season! But before you start gathering your W-2s and receipts, there’s an important question: Do you know who will prepare your taxes this year? With a nationwide shortage of Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and tax professionals, waiting too long to find a preparer could leave you scrambling—and vulnerable to scams. Here’s how to protect yourself and find a trusted tax preparer. Who Can Prepare Your Taxes? When hiring a tax professional, your preparer will likely fall into one of three categories: Certified Public Accountant (CPA):Enrolled Agent (EA):Tax Attorney:Each of these professionals is highly qualified—but the problem is there aren’t enough of them. There is a growing shortage of CPAs and tax professionals, largely due to fewer young people entering the field. One of the major "Big Four" firms, KPMG, continues to offer high school students internships at $22 an hour to encourage them to become CPAs. What does this mean for you? When people are desperate to file their returns, they can become easy targets for scammers who fake credentials or engage in tax fraud. How to Avoid Tax Scams and Find a Qualified Preparer To protect yourself, follow these IRS-recommended steps when choosing a tax preparer: 1. Choose a Year-Round Tax Preparer A reputable preparer should be available year-round. You don’t want your tax preparer to disappear if you get audited. 2. Verify Their IRS Credentials Ask for the IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). All paid tax return preparers must register with the IRS and enter their PTIN on every return they file. Check their status using the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers at IRS.gov. 3. Look for Professional Credentials Ask if the preparer holds a credential such as: IRS.govAdditionally, inquire about continuing education, as tax laws change frequently; professionals should stay current. 4. Be Cautious About Fees Beware of tax preparers who: A legitimate preparer should charge a flat or hourly rate based on the complexity of your return. 5. Verify IRS E-File Capability Most tax preparers handling more than 10 clients must file electronically. If your preparer refuses to e-file, that’s a red flag. 6. Ensure Proper Documentation A trustworthy tax preparer will ask for the following: If a preparer doesn’t ask for supporting documents, walk away. The IRS requires proper documentation to verify your return. 7. Understand Representation Rules Only CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and tax attorneys can represent you before the IRS if you're audited. Non-credentialed tax preparers—including your math-savvy cousin Bill—cannot represent you in an audit. 8. Never Sign a Blank or Incomplete Tax Return Please review your return carefully before signing. Ensure all information is accurate, and ask questions if anything appears incorrect. 9. Your Refund Should Go to You—Not the Preparer Check the routing and account number on your tax return to ensure your refund is deposited into your own account, not your preparer’s. Looking for a Faith-Based Financial Professional? If you want to work with a tax professional who aligns with biblical financial principles, consider finding a CPA, Enrolled Agent, or tax attorney with the Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®) designation. To find a trusted, faith-based tax professional, visit FindaCKA.com. With tax season here, choosing a reputable, qualified tax preparer is more important than ever. Don’t wait until the last minute—start your search today to avoid scams and ensure your taxes are filed accurately and ethically. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Movement MortgageOur Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful StewardshipWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and...

Faith-based investing has expanded dramatically in recent decades. What began as a niche concept—often misunderstood or difficult to implement—has grown into a global movement driven by conviction, transparency, and a renewed understanding of stewardship. Today, new tools are opening fresh doors for Christians who want their investing to reflect biblical values. Among the most discussed innovations are exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which offer investors greater flexibility and access. To explore the growing opportunity, we spoke with Brian Mumbert, President of Timothy Plan and a long-time pioneer in Faith-Based Investing. From Idea to Movement: The Story Behind Timothy Plan Before ETFs and portfolio screens were commonplace, Timothy Plan helped shape the language and frameworks believers use today to think about investing. “Back in the early 90s, Timothy Plan was really just an idea,” Mumbert recalls. “In 1994, that idea became a mutual fund aimed to serve non-denominational pastors. Our very first slogan asked, ‘How much is okay to invest in abortion or pornography?’ And the answer is simple—none.” The motivation wasn’t merely strategic—it was theological. It pushed Christians to wrestle with a deeper question: If God owns it all, how would He want us to invest what He has entrusted to us? Over time, what began as a single fund evolved into a broader conversation about alignment between faith, stewardship, and financial markets. Three decades later, Mumbert describes Faith-Based Investing not merely as a strategy, but as a movement—one that begins “with the heart” and calls believers to steward God’s resources rather than treat them as their own. What’s Driving the Momentum Today? While conviction hasn’t changed, the landscape around investing has. Mumbert points to one factor in particular: information. “When we started, it was incredibly hard to access meaningful information about companies—what they owned, where they profited, or whether their business practices aligned with biblical values,” he explains. Today, the opposite is true. Digital media, public disclosures, and social platforms constantly reveal what companies support and how they operate. That transparency has awakened discernment. Investors are asking new questions: What am I participating in? What am I profiting from? Is there a better alternative? With more options now available—across asset classes and risk profiles—momentum continues to build. ETFs Explained: Why They’re Attracting Faith-Based Investors Among the fastest-growing vehicles in the investing world are ETFs—exchange-traded funds. For those less familiar, Mumbert offers a simple explanation: “ETFs hold a basket of investments and trade throughout the day like a stock. They generally offer lower fees, greater transparency, and the ability to buy or sell at any point during the trading day.” Mutual funds remain a valuable entry point for many investors, but ETFs introduce distinctive advantages: And most importantly for Faith-Based Investing, greater transparency reinforces values alignment. What Sets Timothy Plan’s ETFs Apart? While the vehicle may be new, the convictions behind Timothy Plan’s offerings remain unchanged. “Every Timothy Plan product is pro-life and pro-family,” Mumbert emphasizes. “Our ETFs are screened and filtered the same way as our mutual funds. The convictions haven’t changed—just the investment vehicle.” Timothy Plan also employs volatility-weighted strategies designed to prevent oversized company exposure, helping reduce the impact of major market corrections. A Growing Opportunity for Purpose-Driven Investors The rise of ETFs represents more than access—it represents maturation within Faith-Based Investing. With stronger tools, better research, and expanding product sets, Christians now have more opportunities than ever to align their portfolios with their values. For Mumbert, that alignment is not merely practical; it’s an expression of...

Many Americans are wondering whether the housing market has finally begun turning a corner—or if uncertainty is still here to stay. After years of elevated mortgage rates, stubbornly low inventory, and affordability concerns, the question feels more relevant than ever. Today, mortgage expert Dale Vermillion, author of Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home, joined the show to weigh in on what the 2026 housing landscape may look like and how today’s buyers and sellers can navigate it with wisdom. A More “Normal” Market Returns According to Vermillion, the extreme swings of recent years may finally be behind us. “It isn’t the market of 2020–2021 when rates were in the twos, threes, and fours,” Vermillion explains. “But it’s also certainly not 2008. This is a very normal market.” He noted that although many think of today’s mortgage rates as high, they are actually below the 30-year average. Inventory is rising, sales are stabilizing, and government attention on housing has increased. Together, these factors point toward a gradual shift into a buyer’s market—a welcome change for those who’ve spent the last few years watching listings disappear before they could schedule a tour. A common frustration remains: if rates have risen, why haven’t prices fallen faster? The answer is complex. While price increases largely flattened this year (+0.7%), Vermillion notes that the market remains regional rather than national. Certain areas have softened, but not enough to drive a nationwide price reset. A major reason: the “lock-in effect.” Millions of homeowners refinanced below 3% in 2020–21 and weren’t willing to trade those rates for a higher one. But as Vermillion observes, that dynamic is fading. For the first time in years, more loans now exist above 6% than below 3%, allowing inventory to loosen. Why Fed Rate Cuts Don’t Equal Lower Mortgage Rates Even though the Federal Reserve has been cutting rates, mortgage rates haven’t always followed. That’s because mortgage rates are tied more closely to the bond market, inflation data, and job reports—not directly to the Fed’s benchmark rate. Another overlooked factor: mortgage-backed securities (MBS). When the government increases MBS purchases, mortgage rates often decline more reliably than when the Fed cuts consumer rates. The emotional side of the housing market can’t be ignored. The bidding wars of 2020–21 left many would-be buyers discouraged. But Vermillion believes attitudes are shifting: “Inventory is up from roughly 450,000 units nationally early last year to over a million now. So from a buyer standpoint, it’s time to be encouraged again.” With more sellers re-entering the market, buyers have choice again—and choice increases leverage. Vermillion stressed that affordability challenges today are driven as much by property taxes and insurance costs as by mortgage rates. Homeowners in several states have seen insurance premiums and assessments climb dramatically—sometimes outpacing wage growth. For aspiring first-time buyers, budgeting remains the first step. Vermillion’s advice: determine what you can afford before visiting a lender, rather than letting a lender tell you what qualifies on paper. For First-Time Buyers: Get Pre-Approved, Not Pre-Qualified A true pre-approval involves: This makes offers more competitive and prevents buyers from shopping at unrealistic price points. During the pandemic boom, paying $20,000–$50,000 above asking price became the norm in many markets. Vermillion notes that this period has largely ended: “Homes today are selling around 94–97% of the listing price in most areas. We’re not seeing bidding wars like before.” For buyers, that’s stabilizing. For sellers, it simply resets expectations toward reality. Move-Up Buyers: Timing May Be Better Than You Think For homeowners considering a move—whether for space, schools, or lifestyle—Vermillion’s advice mirrors that given to first-time buyers: set a...

Sports betting is exploding across the country. With online platforms, mobile apps, and aggressive marketing, it’s never been easier to gamble — or easier to hide it. What many view as harmless entertainment may actually be reshaping how we think about money, community, and even discipleship. Pastor and author Kyle Worley—Lead Pastor of Mosaic Church in Richardson, Texas, co-host of the Knowing Faith podcast, and author of Home with God: Our Union with Christ—recently wrote on this growing trend for Faithful Steward magazine. Today, he joins the show to explain why the rise of sports gambling deserves more careful thought from believers. A Different Kind of Gambling Sports gambling carries a unique appeal. Unlike casinos or the lottery, it taps into nostalgia, play, and community. “Sports connect to childhood memories and communal experiences,” Worley notes. “That nostalgia makes sports betting feel natural, even harmless.” The danger lies in how subtly wagering attaches itself to something already meaningful—games shared with friends, family, or childhood heroes—making it easier to dismiss spiritual risks. What Does Scripture Actually Say? The Bible does not explicitly outlaw gambling. But it repeatedly warns against the desire for quick, hasty gain. Worley points to 1 Timothy 6:9–10, noting that it speaks directly to the temptations and destruction tied to wealth pursued rapidly and without wisdom. Gambling fits that pattern. Scripture’s concern is not merely financial but formational. Gambling trains us to view wealth through the lens of chance, speed, and self-interest—the opposite of stewardship, patience, and contentment. The spiritual stakes aren’t just internal. They are profoundly communal. Worley cites Old Testament scholar Bruce Waltke: “The righteous disadvantage themselves for the sake of the community; the unrighteous advantage themselves at the expense of the community.” Modern betting apps are built on asymmetric outcomes—they profit only because others lose. And statistically, those losses fall disproportionately on the vulnerable. Many platforms use predatory models: Worley compares it to handing a chainsaw to a child—unjust simply because not everyone absorbs the harm equally. Normalization and Cultural Formation Sports gambling has moved from taboo to mainstream with startling speed. Betting lines now appear on ESPN, broadcasts, and social media—even during youth-oriented sports programming. The result: a generation being formed to see gambling as normal and morally neutral. Worley warns that where gambling proliferates, other forms of exploitation follow — including human trafficking during major sporting events. While the Bible may speak indirectly about gambling, it speaks directly about exploitation. Some point to the biblical practice of casting lots as justification for gambling. Worley draws a sharp distinction: Casting lots was a religious act of trust—not a wager. It carried no profit motive and served no entertainment purpose. Reframing it as support for modern gambling misunderstands its role entirely. How Churches Can Disciple Better For pastors and ministry leaders, Worley offers three recommendations: Talk More About Money -Address “Respectable” Vices -Create Healthy Avenues for Play and Connection -The Wisdom Required Today In the end, debates about whether gambling is technically permissible miss the deeper biblical question: Does this help me love God and neighbor well? Worley’s counsel is simple: navigate these decisions in community, under Scripture, with wisdom. Quick profit is never neutral—it forms us. And it shapes the people around us. As sports betting continues to surge, Christians will need more than opinions. They will need conviction, clarity, and a vision of stewardship that honors God and protects the vulnerable. ——————————————————————————————————————— Kyle Worley’s full article, “The Real Stakes of Sports Betting,” appears in the latest issue of...

Money and marriage—two things God designed to bless us, but they can also be two of the greatest sources of stress. What if we turned financial conflict into connection? Dr. Shane Enete joins us today to share six creative ways couples can build stronger relationships by having intentional financial conversations—what he calls “money dates.” Dr. Shane Enete is an Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University and founded the Biola Center for Financial Planning. He is also the author of the book Whole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy. Why You Need to Talk About Money—Intentionally Many couples avoid conversations about money out of fear. A study of 2,000 couples found that half of them were uncomfortable discussing money because they worried it would lead to conflict. The irony is that by avoiding those talks, the conflict only deepens. On average, couples argue about money 58 times a year. But what if, instead of waiting for issues to flare up, you set aside regular time to talk about your finances together—proactively and prayerfully? That’s the heart behind the idea of money dates. You might have to rip off the bandage at first, but we want to help couples make these conversations not just necessary—but enjoyable. Turning Financial Talks Into Dates These aren’t meant for finger-pointing but for course correction—a time to realign your financial goals with your values. But also, why not make it a date? Dating can be a lot of fun if you’re intentional. So why not combine something enjoyable with something that’s often uncomfortable? When you connect in a fun environment, even money talk becomes more meaningful. The key is consistency. Whether it’s over dinner, coffee, or a quiet walk, having a regular rhythm of financial connection helps you stay on the same page as a couple—and deepens your trust. Money Date #1: Share Your Money Story Every person brings a financial backstory into marriage—habits, fears, and attitudes shaped by family and early experiences. Think of it as your money autobiography. Reflect on what you learned about money growing up, what messages you received from your parents, and how those experiences influence your decisions today. Take your spouse out for dinner and share those stories. You’ll gain empathy and understanding for each other’s perspectives. When you know your partner’s money story, their spending or saving habits make a lot more sense. Try this: Ask each other, “What’s your earliest memory of money?” The answers may surprise you—and bring you closer. Money Date #2: Give Together Generosity is one of the most unifying acts a couple can experience. Here are a few ways to make generosity a shared journey: Set a giving goal. Track your family's progress and celebrate milestones together. Join a giving circle. Partner with friends or your small group to pool resources for a cause you all care about. Create a stretch goal. As your income grows, commit to increasing your giving percentage over time. These conversations shift the focus from money as a source of stress to money as a means of Kingdom impact. Money Date #3: Cook the Books This one’s both literal and figurative! Instead of going out, stay home and cook a meal together—or grab takeout for a picnic. Use the relaxed environment to talk about your budget rhythm: The FaithFi app can help simplify this process. It lets couples track giving, spending, and saving all in one place—while keeping biblical wisdom at the center. Money Date #4: Check Your Credit (at the Spa!) Debt can carry emotional weight, so create a peaceful setting for this conversation. A spa day is perfect. It’s relaxing—and you can often find affordable day passes. While you unwind, discuss: This isn’t about blame. It’s about caring for each other and agreeing on a plan that both of you believe in. Money Date #5: Number Your Days This one takes its inspiration from Psalm 90:12: “Teach us to number our...

Are you looking for tools that clarify, simplify, and anchor faithful stewardship in biblical wisdom? That question has shaped our vision for the newly updated FaithFi app—a discipleship tool designed to help you build financial rhythms that bring peace, clarity, and Christ-centered focus to your money decisions. To help unpack what’s new, we sat down with Chad Clark, Chief Technology Officer at Kingdom Advisors and FaithFi. Chad has led the development of the FaithFi app since day one, shaping it into a tool that serves real families seeking to honor God with His resources. When the app first launched, the goal was straightforward: build a biblical stewardship tool that was both practical and accessible. Early versions focused primarily on budgeting and cash-flow management. Over time, the app expanded to include a robust content library of articles, podcasts, and videos, along with a community discussion board—features that helped users learn and encourage one another. This latest update is the biggest we’ve ever released, and Chad explains what guided the development: “One of the most important questions we can ask when building technology is: How do we make it simpler for the user? Money can be complex. Budgeting software shouldn’t make it harder.” To solve that problem, the update introduces: These upgrades are designed to help users spend less time tinkering with tools and more time reflecting on the why behind their financial decisions. One of the standout features in the new update is something we’re calling Rhythms—structured daily, weekly, and monthly check-ins that help users slow down, reflect, and respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. Daily rhythms pair brief transaction reviews with short devotionals and reflection questions. Weekly and monthly rhythms zoom out, helping users observe habits, cash-flow patterns, and financial goals—all with suggested adjustments and heart-level reflection prompts. Chad notes that these rhythms are especially powerful for couples who want to cultivate greater unity and shared stewardship. With a simple weekly or monthly check-in, couples can talk, plan, pray, and adjust together. The update also brings FaithFi content directly into the app in a more seamless and beautiful way. Faithful Steward magazine articles will now have a mobile expression, and studies and devotionals will soon follow. It’s one more way the app is becoming a true financial discipleship environment rather than just a budgeting tool. The app now includes optional AI features—but with intentional guardrails. All AI is opt-in, self-hosted, and never sent to third-party models. The goal isn’t novelty or complexity; it’s simply to automate tedious workflows and simplify budgeting so users can focus not merely on what they’re doing with money, but why. “The goal,” Chad says, “is to help people be attentive and obedient to what God is calling them to do with what He’s entrusted to them.” Stewardship grows when we slow down, pay attention, and invite God into the decisions we make with His resources. The updated FaithFi app was built to help you do exactly that—establishing rhythms that encourage wisdom, gratitude, reflection, unity, and greater participation in God’s Kingdom work. The new version is available now. Just search FaithFi in your app store, or visit FaithFi.com and click App. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Kingdom Advisors University PartnershipsOur Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful StewardshipWisdom 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)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody...

For most of us, water is rarely something we think about. It’s as close as the kitchen sink, the refrigerator door, or the bottle beside us at work. But for millions of people around the world, clean water remains out of reach—and the consequences stretch far beyond thirst. Jesus once said, “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones… that person will certainly not lose their reward” (Matthew 10:42). On today’s episode of Faith & Finance, Aaron Griggs of Cross International shows us just how literal—and transformative—that cup of water can be. Globally, 2.2 billion people still lack access to safe drinking water. In places like Zambia, Malawi, and Uganda, the crisis is especially severe. Women and children often walk long distances every day to gather water from open pits shared with animals. The water is contaminated, illness is common, and the time lost reinforces generational poverty. Girls miss school, mothers miss work, and entire communities struggle to flourish. This quarter, FaithFi is partnering with Cross International, a Christ-centered humanitarian ministry working alongside local churches and Christian leaders to meet urgent needs and create sustainable change. Their work in Sub-Saharan Africa is showing what can happen when clean water meets the living water of the gospel. After a well is installed in a village, physical health improves quickly—but the long-term effects are even more remarkable. Hours once spent fetching water are freed for school, work, farming, and small business. Women gain economic opportunity. Children gain education. And through Cross International’s ministry partners, families are introduced to Jesus, often receiving their first Bibles in their own language. One woman in Zambia described this transformation with simple gratitude: “I never knew that I would be where I am now. My family is healthier, and my children are in school. God has blessed us.” Another woman, Grace, shared how access to water restored not only her family but also her church. For years, her congregation met under a tree because there wasn’t enough water for construction. After a new well was installed, the church was rebuilt, children joined their parents in worship, and an entire community experienced renewed dignity and hope. Her favorite Scripture says it best: “Whoever believes in me… rivers of living water will flow from within them.” — John 7:38 Cross International’s work meets physical needs, but always in the name of Christ. Water is a doorway—opening opportunities for flourishing today and pointing to eternal life in Him. That’s why FaithFi is partnering with Cross International this quarter to serve 250 children across Malawi, Zambia, and Uganda, providing not only clean water but also food, education, and the hope of the gospel. For just $62, one child receives these essential resources for a year. Every gift supports not just a child, but often an entire family and community, moving them toward long-term stability and lasting hope. Clean water changes everything—it restores dignity, strengthens families, and reflects the life-giving love of Christ. To learn more or to join us in this effort, visit: FaithFi.com/Cross. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Cross InternationalNational Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)TrumpAccounts.govOur Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful StewardshipWisdom 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)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...

Money has a way of making life feel complicated. Whether we’re facing major financial crossroads or simply trying to steward everyday expenses with wisdom, many of us default to figuring things out on our own. But Scripture reminds us that navigating life in isolation isn’t a sign of strength—it's often a barrier to wisdom. Proverbs 11:14 teaches that “where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Wise counsel, especially when rooted in biblical truth, protects us from blind spots, emotional decision-making, and unnecessary regret. On this episode of Faith & Finance, Sharon Epps—President of Kingdom Advisors and a familiar voice to FaithFi listeners—joins us to explore why seeking counsel is an essential part of faithful stewardship. Sharon explains that while Scripture is our ultimate authority, God often uses people to speak wisdom into our lives. Advisors, mentors, and trustworthy peers help us see what we might otherwise miss, and their influence can redirect us toward obedience, humility, and clarity. Yet many believers hesitate to ask for help. Sharon acknowledges that reluctance often stems from pride—the subtle belief that we should be able to manage life independently. But asking for help is an act of faith, not weakness. It invites others to use the gifts God has given them and prevents us from making decisions based solely on fear, impulse, or confirmation bias. Drawing from the story of Rehoboam in 1 Kings 12, Sharon highlights the danger of listening only to voices that tell us what we want to hear. Rehoboam rejected the wisdom of seasoned counselors in favor of peers who affirmed his own desires—and the outcome was disastrous. The lesson is clear: godly counsel may not always feel comfortable, but it aligns us with God’s purposes and challenges us to pursue stewardship that honors Him. Sharon then offers practical guidance for how believers can seek wise counsel today. At times, this involves working with trained financial professionals—such as Certified Kingdom Advisors (CKA)—who integrate biblical wisdom with planning, investing, and long-term financial strategy. In other seasons, we need mentors who have walked ahead of us and can offer perspective, or peer friendships that speak truth with honesty and grace. Sometimes the right conversation happens over coffee; other times it requires prayer, pastoral guidance, and spiritual discernment. For those currently overwhelmed by a financial decision, Sharon’s simple encouragement is: don’t go it alone. Isolation amplifies anxiety, while community brings clarity. Invite trusted voices into the process, seek the Lord in prayer, and remember James 1:5—God gives wisdom generously to those who ask. Listeners interested in working with a financial professional trained to offer biblically faithful and practically sound counsel can connect with a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) at FindACKA.com. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful StewardshipWisdom 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)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.

Jesus taught that the true measure of giving isn’t the size of the gift but the heart behind it. Generosity begins long before anything leaves our hands. It starts with what we treasure, love, and worship. Few writers explore the inner life of faith as clearly as Pierce Taylor Hibbs, senior writer at Westminster Theological Seminary and the author of more than twenty books on Christian living. In today’s episode, he joins us to invite believers to examine not just the act of giving but the spiritual forces beneath it. In a recent article for the latest issue of Faithful Steward magazine titled "Motive Is Everything," he draws from counselor David Powlison to explain that there’s always a “sun” around which the planets of our lives turn. We’re always pulled toward something—success, security, comfort, pleasure, affirmation, or money—because we’re created to worship. The question isn’t whether we worship, but what we worship. When the created things we enjoy begin to occupy the center, Scripture calls it idolatry. Money is especially powerful in this way because it overlaps with pleasure and power. It promises control over life and the ability to enjoy it—two desires that easily eclipse our devotion to God if left unchecked. To explore the heart behind generosity, Hibbs points to one of Scripture’s most striking stories: the widow’s offering in Mark 12. We don’t know her name, but Jesus knew her heart. While others gave large sums, she dropped two small coins into the temple treasury—an amount no one else would have celebrated. Yet Jesus did. He saw not the amount but the motive. That’s the point: Giving is never merely transactional. It’s deeply spiritual. It reveals what we value most. Hibbs notes that Scripture treats the heart—the lebab—as the control center of our lives. The Dutch theologian Herman Bavinck wrote that the heart is the source of both our rational and volitional life. It shapes what we think, desire, choose, and pursue. Outward actions are merely the visible tip of an iceberg. Beneath them lies motive. Jesus makes the same point in Luke 6:45: “The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good…for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” Our generosity flows from whatever we treasure most. If we treasure God, giving becomes worship. If we treasure self, giving becomes calculation, obligation, or strategy. This reframes generosity. It’s not just about allocating money. It’s about the posture of the soul. It includes time, attention, hospitality, compassion, and quiet acts of service—not only dollars in a plate. So how do we cultivate godly motives? Hibbs suggests beginning with Scripture—especially the Gospels—and watching how Jesus treats people. Jesus continually draws attention to what’s happening beneath the surface: motives, desires, and loves. We don’t wait for perfectly pure motives to give—we’ll never act if we do. But we do allow the Spirit to search us, shape us, and re-center our hearts on Christ, the God who gives first so that we might become givers. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Motive Is Everything by Pierce Taylor Hibbs (Faithful Steward Issue 4 Article)The Book of Giving: How the God Who Gives Can Make Us Givers by Pierce Taylor HibbsOur Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful StewardshipWisdom 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)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...

Why do we give? Many Christians would answer simply: because Scripture tells us to. But if giving is only an obligation, something we do because we “should,” generosity will always feel heavy—like a tax, a duty, or a calculation. The Bible offers a far more compelling vision. It tells a story where generosity flows not from guilt or pressure, but from grace. Most of us genuinely want to be generous. Few people say, “I don’t want to give.” Yet generosity doesn’t always come easily. We run the numbers. We think about what’s coming next. We worry whether our gift will make a difference. Sometimes we even reduce generosity to a math problem—something we’ll do once everything feels secure. Beneath those questions is a deeper one: Why do we give in the first place? Scripture doesn’t begin the conversation about giving with budgets or even with commands. It begins with identity. Before you ever give a dollar, you are already living on a gift. Paul writes, “For by grace you have been saved through faith… it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). You have received mercy instead of judgment, forgiveness in place of guilt, adoption instead of estrangement. Daily bread, new life, a secured future in Christ—all of it is grace. And when grace takes root, generosity follows. Paul describes this beautifully: “Though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9). This isn’t just poetic language—it's the pattern of Christian generosity. Jesus did not cling to comfort, status, or security. As Philippians 2:7 says, He emptied Himself. He entered our poverty so we could share His riches. The gospel doesn’t merely forgive sinners; it forms a generous people who reflect the heart of the Giver. That means our giving is never about earning God’s favor or proving our faith. “We love because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19). The same is true with generosity—we give because He first gave. This changes the tone entirely. Instead of pressure, generosity becomes privilege. Instead of fear—fear of not having enough, fear of loss—it becomes trust. Giving becomes a declaration that God is our provider, not our bank account, and that our security is anchored in Christ, not in financial margins. And this grace-shaped generosity is not reserved for the wealthy. Every believer has received the riches of Christ, which means every believer has something to give. Sometimes it looks like a financial sacrifice. Other times, like hospitality, encouragement, time, or presence. Generosity is broader than money and deeper than obligation. In the end, we don’t give to become generous people. We give because God has already been generous with us. Generosity doesn’t begin with what we give—it begins with what we’ve received. When grace becomes the foundation, giving becomes a joy. ——————————————————————————————————————— If you’d like to explore how the gospel reshapes the way we think about money, stewardship, and generosity, we’re about to release a new 21-day devotional called Our Ultimate Treasure, written by our own Rob West. It’s designed to help you slow down, reflect on God’s grace, and connect biblical faith to everyday financial decisions. You can preorder your copy—or place a bulk order for your church or small group—at FaithFi.com/Shop. Or receive it automatically when you become a FaithFi Partner at FaithFi.com/Give. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Financial Next Steps After Losing A Spouse by Valerie Neff Hogan, J.D., CFP (Faithful Steward Issue 3 Article)Widow ConnectionNational Christian Foundation (NCF)Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful StewardshipWisdom 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...

Most people, when asked about their biggest financial regret, will point to mistakes involving debt, missed investment opportunities, or overspending. But for today’s guest, the regret was far more surprising—and far more spiritual. Dr. Art Rainer says his greatest financial regret is not having started tracking his generosity sooner. On this episode of Faith & Finance, Dr. Art Rainer joins us to talk about how something as simple as recording our giving can strengthen our stewardship, deepen our joy, and align our financial lives more closely with Scripture. Rainer, founder of Christian Money Solutions and the Institute for Christian Financial Health, has spent years helping believers think biblically about money. But this particular practice—tracking generosity—came to him through a friend and quickly reshaped his financial priorities. Dr. Rainer identifies four compelling reasons every believer should consider tracking their giving. First, generosity is not merely an optional add-on to the Christian life; according to Scripture, it’s a financial priority. Proverbs 3:9 calls us to honor the Lord with our wealth and with the firstfruits of our increase. God created us not to stockpile resources but to act as conduits of His provision. If generosity stands at the front of faithful stewardship, it makes sense to pay attention to it—just as we would with saving, budgeting, or debt reduction. Second, Rainer explains that we naturally “chase what we track.” What we measure shapes what we pursue. Many of us track our net worth, our spending categories, or our fitness goals—and we make progress because the very act of monitoring fuels intentionality. If that’s true for paying off debt or saving for a car, why wouldn’t it be even more true for generosity, one of the most transformative habits in the Christian life? Third, he notes that generosity is missing from the financial dashboards believers tend to rely on. Our balance sheets and net worth statements are helpful tools, but they tell only part of the story—and often reward the very behaviors Scripture warns us not to idolize. In fact, traditional financial statements treat giving as a negative, a depletion of wealth, even though Scripture teaches that generosity stores up lasting treasure (Matthew 6:19–21). Tracking giving puts what God values most back into view. Finally, tracking generosity helps believers remember why they give in the first place. Every dollar represents impact—lives changed, ministries strengthened, needs met, and the gospel advanced. While most of that impact won’t be fully seen until eternity, keeping a record helps us trace God’s faithfulness and celebrate His work through us. It turns giving into worship, gratitude, and mission rather than mere obligation. Dr. Rainer concludes with simple encouragement to get started: look back at prior giving, record it, and move forward. A spreadsheet is enough. The goal isn’t pride, but praise—remembering God’s provision and rejoicing in the privilege of generosity. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives by Ron Blue with Jeremy WhiteChristian Money SolutionsInstitute for Christian Financial HealthExcellence in GivingNational Christian Foundation (NCF)GainbridgeBankrateWisdom 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)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...

Investing doesn’t require a fortune — just a willingness to begin with what you have. That’s the message Mark Biller, Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, emphasizes as he encourages listeners to start small, stay consistent, and keep investing simply as an act of faithful stewardship. Biller starts by reminding beginners that wise investing is built on a solid financial foundation. Before putting money at risk in the markets, he urges individuals to pay down high-interest consumer debt, establish a modest emergency fund, and follow a spending plan. Paying off double-digit credit card debt offers a guaranteed return that most investments struggle to match. The exception comes when an employer offers matching contributions in a retirement plan—since a match functions like an immediate return on contributions, it’s often worth taking advantage of even while still eliminating smaller debts. For those ready to invest, workplace retirement plans—such as 401(k)s—are typically the best place to begin. They offer three major benefits: tax-advantaged growth, automatic contributions that promote consistency, and, in many cases, employer-matching contributions. Biller calls the match “free money,” noting that it’s effectively part of an employee’s compensation and should not be left on the table. For listeners without a workplace plan, an IRA—and especially a Roth IRA for younger workers—provides similar tax advantages and helps develop long-term investing habits. New investors often feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of financial information available today. Biller warns that waiting until you “know everything” often results in never starting at all. The more important step is to build momentum by contributing regularly, even in small amounts. Investing is a habit, and habits gain strength through repetition. To keep things simple, Biller recommends relying on broad, low-cost index funds—often available through both workplace plans and discount brokerage firms. Index funds offer immediate diversification, require minimal expertise, and allow investors to learn gradually without taking on unnecessary risk. More sophisticated strategies can come later; simplicity removes barriers at the beginning. Alongside practical guidance, Biller highlights several behavioral realities: choose a few trusted financial voices, tune out noise that stirs fear or greed, and resist a false urgency to time the market. Successful investing requires patience and emotional steadiness more than constant research. As the conversation wraps up, Biller offers encouragement: while investing can appear complex, most of the benefits come from a few basic disciplines. You don’t need large sums to begin; time in the market is your greatest ally. Maintain a heart-level posture as a steward, trusting that God can multiply small beginnings into meaningful long-term outcomes. Wise investing is ultimately an expression of faithful management, not accumulation for its own sake. To learn more about Sound Mind Investing, you can go to SoundMindInvesting.org. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Sound Mind Investing (SMI)Starting Small, Finishing Well by Joseph Slife (SMI Article)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)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...

Economic forecasters expect U.S. growth in 2026 to settle between 1.5% and 2%—sluggish, but not recessionary. Still, analysts warn that if inflation reignites or global trade pressures intensify, a mild downturn is possible. For many households, this uncertainty fuels anxiety—especially around rising health-care costs. On today’s program, Lauren Gajdek, Senior Director of External Affairs at Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), joins us to offer practical guidance for navigating health-care expenses in a slow-growth, high-uncertainty environment. Lauren notes that beyond slower GDP projections, unemployment remains elevated at 4.4% and inflation has yet to return to the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. That combination creates financial pressure for both working families and retirees. If someone loses their job—and, with it, employer-provided health coverage—Lauren explains the options: COBRA allows continuation of benefits, but the individual must pay the full premium, which is extremely costly. Marketplace plans on Healthcare.gov also carry high premiums and, increasingly, high out-of-pocket maximums. For many families, the total annual exposure can exceed $20,000. That’s why Lauren highlights an alternative that more Christians are turning to: health-care sharing ministries. CHM—founded on the biblical principle of bearing one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2)—is not insurance. Instead, members remain legally responsible for their medical bills, and CHM facilitates the sharing of eligible expenses among members. To help listeners understand the model, Lauren outlines how cost sharing works in practice. Members pay a monthly amount based on the program level and family size. For example, CHM’s Gold program is priced at $299 per “unit,” where each adult is a unit and all dependent children together count as one additional unit—making it particularly advantageous for families. CHM also offers Silver, Bronze, and SeniorShare options, allowing households to tailor participation to their needs and budgets. When medical needs arise—an emergency-room visit, for example—the member pays their defined personal responsibility amount, and CHM shares the remaining eligible expenses. Related follow-up care from the same incident can also be submitted for reimbursement. As the nation's oldest health-care sharing ministry and a longtime underwriter of Faith & Finance, CHM has paid more than $13 billion in medical bills since its founding. Lauren emphasizes that while it operates as a ministry, CHM also provides practical financial support, helping Christians manage health care costs during uncertain economic times. If you’re interested in learning more, you can visit CHMinistries.org/FaithFi for additional details. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM)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)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.

Staying on budget doesn’t have to be complicated—or exhausting. A growing number of families are discovering that a simple, five-minute weekly check-in can make the difference between feeling reactive and feeling in control. On today’s episode of Faith and Finance, Crystal Payne joins us to offer a practical rhythm for keeping your spending aligned with your priorities. Crystal is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com and the author of several bestselling books on frugal living and family budgeting. She writes extensively on financial stewardship in the latest issue of Faithful Steward magazine. Crystal’s approach centers on six weekly questions—each one designed to build awareness, reduce stress, and encourage intentionality rather than guilt or perfectionism. 1. What worked this week? Begin with the wins. Identifying progress reinforces good habits and motivates continued change. 2. What didn’t work this week? Honesty about drift or weak spots brings clarity. Patterns often emerge in categories such as dining out or impulse purchases. The goal isn’t shame—it’s information. 3. What do I want to change? Awareness should lead to one small, actionable adjustment for the week ahead—rebalancing a category, revising expectations, or improving tracking. 4. What surprised me? Looking for unexpected expenses, higher bills, or forgotten credits helps reduce future anxiety and highlights planning opportunities. 5. Was I over budget anywhere? Overages aren’t failures; they show where reality differs from assumptions. This is where Crystal recommends treating your budget like a GPS—when life takes a detour, simply recalculate. 6. Any “aha” moments? These reflect where money, values, and emotions intersect. Many people recognize that a bit of planning reduces tension, that habits shape outcomes, or that spending aligns—or doesn’t—with their priorities. At the heart of this rhythm is intentionality. Crystal notes that a budget isn’t meant to sit in the background until there’s a problem. When revisited consistently, it becomes a tool that works for you rather than a set of rules you feel pressured to obey. For married couples, Crystal suggests reviewing the budget together, approaching the conversation with curiosity rather than criticism. Shared visibility promotes unity and helps both spouses move their priorities forward without resentment or misunderstanding. A five-minute weekly review may sound small, but over time it transforms budgeting from crisis-management into stewardship. It helps families spend purposefully, adjust gracefully, and ensure their financial decisions reflect what they truly value. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)MoneySavingMom.comHow Can I Keep My Budget On Track? By Crystal Paine (Article in Faithful Steward Issue 4)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)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We live in a culture that stretches us to the very limits of our time, energy, and finances. Every hour gets booked, every dollar gets assigned, and before we know it, we’re operating without room to breathe. Scripture calls that lack of space folly—and the presence of space wisdom. Today, we’re talking about margin and why it’s essential to biblical stewardship. Margin is the space between our limits and our load—the distance between what we could do and what we actually do. Proverbs 21:20 tells us, “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.” Wise people don’t consume everything they have. They create space. They build reserves. They plan ahead. The foolish run to the edges, spending and consuming as fast as resources arrive. One of Scripture’s most beautiful pictures of margin appears in the story of Ruth. In Leviticus 23:22, God instructs His people not to harvest their fields all the way to the edges. They were to leave grain for the poor, the widow, and the foreigner. Boaz obeyed that command. He refused to maximize every inch of profit, and because of that simple act of obedience, Ruth and Naomi survived. Margin became the soil for redemption—leading to the lineage of King David, and ultimately, to Jesus Christ. Margin makes room for God to work. Think of a beautifully designed page. The words never run from edge to edge. The white space allows the page to breathe. Without it, the text would feel overwhelming. Our lives are the same. When we fill every minute of our schedules and every dollar of our budgets, life becomes chaotic. We lose clarity, rest, and the ability to respond to God’s promptings. Financially, the absence of margin makes even small disruptions feel like emergencies. A car repair or medical bill can suddenly derail us. But margin absorbs shocks. It quiets anxiety. And it lays the groundwork for stewardship. Margin produces at least three spiritual benefits: Space for Rest.Space for Faith.Space for Generosity.Ultimately, margin is a spiritual discipline. It isn’t just about saving money—it’s about creating space for God’s pace, God’s provision, and God’s purposes. The first step is simple to name and difficult to practice: spend less than you earn. Say no to good things so you can say yes to better things. Margin doesn’t appear on its own—it’s created through intentional choices. Boaz never imagined that leaving grain behind would shape the family line of the Messiah. But God often uses margin to accomplish eternal things. ———————————————————————————————— If you want to go deeper in learning how our stewardship makes room for God’s work in our lives, our own Rob West wrote about this theme in his new 21-day devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure. It will be released next month. You can preorder or place bulk orders at FaithFi.com/Shop, and a digital version will be available soon in the FaithFi App for FaithFi Partners. I’d love for you to experience it. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)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)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.

“Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.” - Proverbs 21:20 Scripture highlights a simple principle of stewardship: wise people live with margin. They don’t spend everything they earn; they save, plan, and prepare for the future. And in our modern world, the basic tool that helps us live with margin is a budget. Today, Chad Clark joins us to discuss what budgeting really looks like for most Americans and how we can do better. As FaithFi’s Chief Technology Officer, Chad oversees our digital tools and the development of the FaithFi app. He recently came across research that sheds light on how people actually budget. According to a NerdWallet survey of 2,000 adults, three out of four Americans report keeping a monthly budget. That sounds encouraging—until you read the next line: 84% of them say they regularly overspend their budget. And when people overspend, nearly half bridge the gap with credit cards, while the rest tap into savings—often until savings eventually run out. Chad notes that this is why we say that without a working budget, debt is almost inevitable once savings are depleted. So why do some people avoid budgeting altogether? After years of hearing excuses, Chad lists the most common: it’s too time-consuming, too complicated, too much math, too restrictive, or simply too hard to stick to—like dieting. Others believe they don’t need a budget because they earn enough, or that a budget limits their freedom. But as Chad points out, most of those reasons are rooted in misconceptions. A budget isn’t a punishment, and it’s not primarily about cutting expenses. It’s a decision-making tool that prioritizes spending and helps you align resources with values. Nor is a budget inflexible; it can and should adjust as life changes. And even those with high incomes need budgets. If billion-dollar companies operate from a spending plan, “I make enough” isn’t a sound argument for skipping one. Stewardship isn’t about how much we earn but how faithfully we manage what God entrusts to us. Before wrapping up, Chad shares how the FaithFi app makes budgeting more approachable. First, it accommodates different budgeting styles, allowing you to choose the method that works best for you. Second, it builds habits through daily, weekly, and monthly rhythms—to help you engage consistently rather than merely set up a plan and hope it works. And finally, FaithFi goes beyond numbers. Through biblical content and community, it helps shape the heart behind the decisions—because stewardship is ultimately about walking with God. If you’re ready to begin budgeting—or begin again—FaithFi can help you take that first step and actually stick with it. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Christian Credit CounselorsWisdom 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)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.

Everyone wants financial freedom. But for many of us, freedom gets defined by “more”—more income, more margin, more accumulation. The irony is that the more we chase, the less peace we often feel. The issue isn’t just mathematical. It’s spiritual. Money is one of the clearest mirrors of what we trust. And trust—not strategies or spreadsheets—is where true financial freedom begins. To explore that idea, we sat down with Ron Blue, cofounder of Kingdom Advisors and a pioneer in modern biblical financial stewardship. For more than fifty years, Ron has helped Christians think about money through the lens of Scripture, wisdom, and faithful discipleship. Ron pointed out that financial behavior always flows from belief. If we believe we own our resources, then every financial decision carries pressure and fear. But when we acknowledge that God owns everything, that pressure shifts. Instead of performing, controlling, or protecting outcomes, we begin stewarding what belongs to Him. Surrender turns money from a fear-based issue into a faith-based one. Many of us assume money is a knowledge problem—if we just learn more or find better tools, we’ll finally make progress. But Ron reminded us that Scripture treats money as a matter of wisdom. Knowledge alone can complicate money; wisdom simplifies it. Biblical principles don’t change with markets or trends, and when we make decisions rooted in principle, we gain clarity and peace. Fear is one of the most silent drivers in our financial lives. Most people quietly wonder, “Will I ever have enough?” and “If I do, will it remain enough?” Fear focuses on what we lack rather than what God has already provided. Jesus counters that fear in Matthew 6:33 by calling us to seek first God’s Kingdom and trust Him with our needs—food, clothing, and shelter included. Ron also stressed that generosity plays a unique role in financial freedom because it breaks money’s hold on the heart. He described giving as an open hand—letting God put in or take out as He chooses. Giving is unnatural and counterintuitive, but it declares trust in God’s provision and aligns us with His purposes. If financial freedom is the goal, surrender, wisdom, trust, and generosity are the path. Tools matter, budgets matter, and knowledge matters, but none of them can replace a heart anchored in God’s ownership. True freedom doesn’t start with more. It starts with surrender. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)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)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.