Faith & Finance

Statistics show that many people aren’t saving for retirement. Others may have far more than enough. How do you find the right balance? Yes, saving too much for retirement is possible, although many more folks aren’t saving enough. What does Scripture tell us about responsible savings? Brian Holtz fills us in today. Brian Holtz is the Chief Operating Officer at Compass Financial Ministry and the author of Financial Discipleship for Families: Intentionally Raising Faithful Children. It’s essential to save and invest enough for retirement, but it’s just as misguided to prioritize that above all others, right? The Bible gives us direction in both cases, all with the goal of finishing well: What are some ways to ensure we’re saving responsibly? It’s important to know what you’re saving for, right? Absolutely! What about retirement savings? What new changes are we seeing at Compass? Compass Financial Ministry: Well Versed In Finances.CompassFinancialMinistry.orgOn Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Compass Financial MinistryBankrate.comRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions 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.

Are you confident you’ll be able to retire comfortably someday? Are you taking steps to make that happen? Inadequate savings, faulty assumptions, and high inflation could create barriers to a comfortable retirement. Can we learn anything from today’s retirees? Matt Bell thinks we can and joins us today to discuss this. Matt Bell is the Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. What does the latest Employee Benefit Research Institute data show about how people feel about their retirement prospects? In the latest report, nearly 70% of people in the workforce, and somewhat higher numbers of those who are retired, say they feel at least somewhat confident they’ll have enough money to live comfortably throughout retirement. Not surprisingly, one of the top retirement-related concerns among both groups centers on inflation. Today’s workers say higher prices make it harder to save for later years. Another concern for both groups is the possibility that the government may change the American retirement system. What lessons can workers learn from this survey? What stands out are several areas of disconnect between worker optimism and their preparedness or between worker expectations and retiree experiences. For example, while many people in the workforce are confident about how well their finances will hold up in retirement, many of today’s oldest workers—43 % of those age 55 or older—have less than $100,000 saved for retirement. While we can’t control how the stock market performs, many of us have some control over how much we’re setting aside for retirement. Another area of disconnect is that many of today’s workers say they intend to work past the traditional retirement age of 65. Yet, just 19% of today’s retirees actually retire that late. It’s essential for all of us working to see that many of today’s retirees stepped out of the workforce earlier than they had intended. And while some did so simply because they could afford to, most in that situation had to retire because of health issues or changes at work. On a related note, large numbers of today’s workers—75% are counting on being able to work for pay to some degree in retirement, whereas just 30% of today’s retirees can. What are the takeaways from those two areas of disconnect? They both have to do with setting realistic expectations. You don’t want to create a retirement plan based on an absolute best-case scenario. The ideal scenario is to build a strategy where those things will be helpful if they work out, but they’re not absolutely necessary. What else stood out from this study? It’s beneficial to run the numbers on retirement. That means using a retirement calculator to estimate how much money you’ll need in retirement and how much you should be investing now to achieve that goal. Surprisingly, only half of today’s workers have taken that step. But those who have run the numbers tend to begin saving more, which makes sense. The more real we can make retirement—the more we can see what we need to do to retire successfully—the more likely we are to take the steps we need to take. What should future retirees know about Social Security? For starters, it would be helpful to determine how much they’re likely to receive in benefits. Social Security will be an essential source of income for most of today’s workers in retirement. However, fewer than half know what their benefits will amount to at their planned retirement age, and less than 60% have thought about how the age at which they claim benefits will impact the amount they receive. All this information is available on the Social Security Administration’s website, SSA.gov, or your Social Security statements. What did the survey show about that debt in retirement? In last year’s survey, nearly two-thirds of workers acknowledged that debt is a problem for them, and that issue is not likely to have disappeared between the previous year and this year. While last year’s...

You’ve heard the expression, “Pennywise and pound foolish?” Here in the States, we could say “Pennywise and dollar foolish.” A good example is when someone is more concerned about the interest they’re getting on their savings account than the interest they’re paying on their mortgage. Top Tips to Save Big on Interest When managing your finances, shopping around for the best interest rates on savings is wise. However, focusing on reducing the interest on your mortgage can have a much bigger payoff. Consider the total interest paid over a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. It's a powerful motivator to pay off your mortgage quickly. Let's break it down. Imagine you have a $375,000 mortgage at a 7.3% interest rate. Over 30 years, you’ll pay over $550,000 in interest, bringing the total cost of your home to around $925,000. With today's higher rates, paying off your mortgage faster is more crucial than ever. Suppose you pay an extra $300 a month on the principal. This might require some sacrifices, but it’s worth it. By doing this, you can repay your loan eight years and three months faster and save $176,000 in interest. Paying down the principal each month should be a top priority. Here are four steps to help you achieve this: Starting early means more savings that you can use elsewhere. Proverbs 21:5 says, “Slow and steady plodding brings prosperity.” So, begin your journey to an early mortgage payoff now. While at it, consider a mortgage with Movement Mortgage, a Christian company dedicated to making a positive impact. Since its inception in 2008, Movement has donated $377 million to community projects. With 775 locations nationwide, Movement offers competitive rates and a chance to be part of a greater cause. Check them out at: FaithFi.com/Movement. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Movement MortgageRich 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.

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” - Acts 1:8 Those were Christ’s words to the apostles after his resurrection. The fulfillment of that promise began a few days later, on Pentecost, and continues in believers to this day. We’ll explain what that has to do with your finances. Transforming Your Financial Decisions In the Christian calendar, while Christmas and Easter receive the most attention, Pentecost is a pivotal event for believers, emphasizing themes of power and proclamation. This year, as Pentecost approaches, let's explore how this day influences more than just spiritual life—it impacts our financial decisions too. Pentecost celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and early followers of Jesus, as recounted in Acts 1:4-8 and Acts 2. Jesus, after his resurrection, promised his disciples that they would be baptized with the Holy Spirit, which would empower them to be his witnesses "to the ends of the earth." This promise was fulfilled on Pentecost when the Holy Spirit descended like tongues of fire, enabling the apostles to speak in various tongues and proclaim the Good News to people from diverse regions, resulting in 3,000 new believers in one day. This miraculous birth of the Church underscores Pentecost’s themes of divine power and the call to proclaim the gospel. But what does Pentecost mean for Christians today, especially regarding financial decisions? Pentecost reminds us that, as part of the body of Christ, our actions—including how we manage our money—reflect our faith and values. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, our lives are not our own; we were bought at a price and are called to glorify God in all aspects, including our finances. A Pentecost-informed perspective on money prioritizes serving others over personal gain. It changes our motivations, inspiring us with a new spirit and a heart for generosity and ethical conduct. This spiritual transformation should drive our financial choices, encouraging us to use our resources to further the gospel and serve the global community. As Pentecost Sunday nears, let's remember its profound impact on our spiritual lives and daily financial decisions. Embrace the Holy Spirit’s power to cultivate godliness in every area, including our economics. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)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.

Do you use a credit union? Or have you never considered using one? Credit union members know their advantages, and 120 million nationwide can’t be wrong. Aaron Caid joins us today to discuss the pros and cons of credit unions (and spoiler alert: there aren’t many cons). Aaron Caid is the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. What are the “pros” of joining a typical credit union? Credit unions are member-owned cooperatives. Members are customers and stakeholders governed by a volunteer board selected from the member base. They also have voting rights on credit union policies which help their decisions reflect the members' needs. They exist to serve members, as opposed to banks which exist to maximize profits for shareholders. Credit Unions return earnings to members through better rates and lower fees. Are Credit Unions as safe as banks? They are! Many credit unions are federally insured by the NCUA (National Credit Union Administration), which covers up to $250,000 per member. Christian Community Credit Union is privately insured by American Share Insurance (ASI). Every member account is insured up to $250,000; no account holder has ever lost a dime with ASI. Can Credit Unions really compete with banks? Of course! Because credit union profits go back to members in the form of better rates and lower fees, credit unions offer higher yields on deposits like savings products, CDs, and savings accounts, as well as lower rates on loans (including mortgages) and lower fees overall. What about branches? Many credit unions are part of the co-op shared branch network, and Christian Community Credit Union is one of them. This network gives members access to over 5,600 shared branches nationwide, so there's likely one in your neighborhood. It provides access to 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs and broader coverage than all the big banks. What makes Christian Community Credit Union different? What distinguishes Christian Community Credit Union from others is their common bond in Christianity. Their members are unified in their faith and devotion to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. CCCU is unapologetically Christian, invests in biblical causes, and makes decisions driven by Scripture. Additionally, CCCU is led by devoted Christians and uses member deposits to provide affordable financing and biblical banking solutions for churches, ministries, and thousands of other Christians across the US. Are there any cons? There is only one con to joining a credit union, which wouldn’t even be considered a negative for many people. You have to become a member to benefit from its advantages. The only membership eligibility requirement for Christian Community Credit Union is that a person needs to be Christian and agree to their statement of faith in the membership application. If someone is a Christ follower in the United States and agrees to the statement of faith, they are eligible to be a member. Where can we get more information about Christian Community Credit Union? JoinChristianCommunity.comOn Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Christian Community Credit UnionRich 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.

We’d like to think that our actions are always pleasing to God and certainly don’t offend Him…but we also know that isn’t always true. Christians are called to do good works so the world will see them and God will be glorified. So it shouldn’t surprise us that God takes stinginess and generosity personally. Randy Alcorn joins us today to discuss this. Randy Alcorn is a New York Times bestselling author of over 60 books on Christian Living and the Founder and Director of Eternal Perspective Ministries. His ministry focuses on helping others use their time, money, possessions, and opportunities in ways that count for eternity. Living The Good Life What does it mean to be truly rich in our pursuit of a fulfilling life? The concept of being "rich toward God" is explored in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the importance of generosity and selflessness. This richness is not measured by accumulating wealth for personal gain but by giving lavishly to those in need, aligning with God's priorities rather than hoarding possessions. The parable of the Rich Fool serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the folly of materialism and selfishness. Despite worldly success, the rich fool is deemed a fool by God for prioritizing his desires over preparing for eternity and acknowledging God's sovereignty over his life and possessions. The passage warns that materialism diminishes the true value of possessions and increases anxiety by focusing solely on self-preservation and indulgence. True joy and fulfillment, it suggests, come from selfless giving and serving others rather than selfish accumulation. Contrary to the worldly view of the "good life," Christians are called to find abundance in knowing Jesus and living a life of purpose and generosity. This abundance extends beyond material wealth to encompass the spiritual richness of serving God and others. Living the good life involves shifting priorities toward God's kingdom, sacrificial giving, and finding joy in serving others. It's about embracing a life of abundance through generosity and aligning one's life with God's purposes, finding fulfillment in possessions, relationships, and purposeful living. Ultimately, the true richness of life lies in living for something greater than oneself, embracing a lifestyle of generosity and selflessness that reflects God's love and character. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Wise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan, JDBankrate.comEternal Perspectives Ministries with Randy AlcornRich 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.

We tend to think that wealthy individuals always make the right financial decisions, but is that always the case? The truth is that people with a high net worth can sometimes make financial mistakes just as easily as the rest of us and perhaps with even worse consequences. Cole Pearson shares five of them today. Cole Pearson is the President of Investment Solutions at OneAscent, a family of companies seeking to help people align their investments with their Christian values. OneAscent is also an underwriter of Faith & Finance. Five Mistakes That The Wealthy Make With Their Investments Even wealthy or high-net-worth individuals can often make common mistakes that can undermine their financial success. For most people, wealthy or not, having a financial advisor can help you avoid these mistakes. Here are 5 mistakes that the wealthy make: How Can People Learn More About OneAscent? OneAscent.com'Analyze My Investments'On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: The National Christian FoundationRich 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.

Proverbs 27:12 reads, “The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.” The word “insurance” isn’t in the Bible, but it does say that it’s wise to protect your financial holdings—and insurance is one way to do that. Understanding Essential Insurance Policies Insurance is a fundamental aspect of financial planning. For most of us, unless we have vast wealth diversified across numerous investments, insurance serves as a critical safety net. So, what insurance policies are necessary? Auto insurance is generally required by law if you own a vehicle. Homeowners insurance is mandatory if you have a mortgage and advisable even if you don't. Bundling these two can save money, and adding an umbrella policy provides extra liability protection for a modest cost. Renters insurance is often overlooked but vital for protecting personal property and covering liability. It's affordable, typically under $200 annually. Health insurance is a must. Without insurance, the costs of medical care can be astronomical, making health coverage a crucial safeguard. Life insurance is necessary if someone depends on your income. Consider term life insurance over whole life, especially when downsizing your policy later in life. Long-term care insurance is vital for those in their 50s and beyond. With most seniors needing some form of long-term care, this insurance can prevent financial ruin. This insurance protects your income if you're incapacitated. Premiums are typically a small percentage of your annual salary. Insurance to Avoid Title theft insurance and identity theft insurance can be redundant. Instead, monitor your credit through free services like Credit Karma, Credit Sesame, or AnnualCreditReport.com and freeze it if needed. Title insurance, on the other hand, is crucial when purchasing a home. By strategically selecting the right insurance policies, you can protect yourself and your family against unforeseen events while avoiding unnecessary expenses. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: AnnualCreditReport.comCredit KarmaCredit SesameRich 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.

“She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” - Proverbs 31:28 The True Value of Motherhood As we approach Mother's Day, it's a great time to reflect on mothers' immense value to our lives, beyond their immeasurable emotional and spiritual support. While it's clear that a mother's contributions are priceless, have you ever wondered what the monetary value of a mother's work might be? Recent data from Salary.com helps put this into perspective, revealing that if motherhood were paid like a traditional job, the average stay-at-home mom would earn an annual base salary of around $185,000. This figure accounts for her myriad roles—from Chief Financial Officer to Nurse and Educator. When you factor in potential bonuses, overtime, and hazard pay that a top employee might earn in the corporate world, this figure could easily surpass $200,000! Working moms, too, work a staggering 54 hours a week managing home duties on top of their professional responsibilities. Whether in the workforce or full-time at home, moms perform a labor of love that would command a hefty salary in any other context. Yet, the discussion about the value of mothers isn't just about financial compensation; it's also deeply rooted in spiritual and moral values. The Fifth Commandment, "Honor your father and mother," (Exodus 20:12) underscores the importance of recognizing and respecting parents, ranking it alongside commandments against stealing and murder. This commandment highlights the significance of family and the sacred act of honoring those who gave us life. So as we celebrate Mother’s Day, let's remember that honoring our mothers isn't just a once-a-year event but a lifelong commitment. It’s about more than just cards and flowers; it's about recognizing their daily sacrifices, respecting their contributions, and loving them unconditionally. After all, their role in our lives is beyond any price tag. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Bankrate.comHow Much is a Mom Really Worth? The Amount May Surprise You (Study by Salary.com)Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions 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.

What would you say is the most generous act of all time? If you said “The Cross,” you’d be correct. Jesus gave His life so we may spend eternity with Him. We must only have faith in Him as our Lord and Savior to receive this gift. Art Rainer joins us today with thoughts on what the Cross reveals about generosity. Art Rainer is the founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is a regular contributor here at Faith & Finance and the author of “Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose.” In Matthew 27, we read how the unfathomable became reality. God sent his only Son, Jesus, to the world. While on earth, he lived sinless, doing what no human could ever do on their own. Yet, he was condemned to die on the cross. Christians can’t look at the cross without seeing radical generosity. The blood-stained wood reminds us of the greatest gift ever given. It shows us what genuine, biblical generosity looks like. Five Lessons About Generosity From The Cross “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”“For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”What is a Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)? Christian Financial Counselors help individuals and couples discover and pursue God’s design for money. They guide them in making wise financial decisions, building sound financial habits, and increasing their biblical financial literacy. If you’re looking for a Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC) to help you with your finances, go to FaithFi.com and click “Find A Professional.” To learn more about becoming a Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC), visit ChristianFinancialHealth.com. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: The Institute For Christian Financial HealthChristian Money SolutionsBecome A Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions 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.

In Matthew 10:16, Jesus called us to be wise as snakes and gentle as doves. But can we be gentle and wise when standing up for biblical principles and our voting rights as investors? It’s the annual shareholder meeting season for public corporations, meaning companies will hear about their policies from investors. Jerry Bowyer joins us today with a biblical perspective on corporate engagement. Jerry Bowyer is the President of Bowyer Research and our Resident Economist here at Faith & Finance. He is the author of “The Maker Versus the Takers: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics.” You can also read his insightful columns for World News Group. When you work with corporations and voting shares, are you helping Christians stand up for their “rights” in some way? Christians can advocate for their rights as corporate shareholders by putting shareholder proposals on the ballot if they own $2,000 worth of shares for three years. This enables them to speak at the annual meeting or delegate that to somebody else and present their questions and cases to the CEOs and executives. Through shareholder activism and proxy voting, there is a great deal of ability to "speak to kings" or address corporate leadership. How does proxy voting work and how can it impact a company? Proxy voting works similarly to how voting works for citizens. As shareholders, investors get to vote for members of the board of directors, just like citizens vote for members of Congress or the president. As shareholders, investors can attend the annual meeting and speak up if they own just one or even a fractional share, similar to how citizens can go to town hall meetings to voice their opinions. What are some differences in how one engages a corporation vs. a government agency? When engaging with government funds as investors, they are on the "our side" as the investor. They help governments engage properly when they are company investors, just like individuals invest through 401ks, ETFs, etc. Governments have a fiduciary obligation to invest for retirees' good and vote in a way that benefits them. With corporations, the engagement is more about holding them accountable and encouraging them to focus on their core business rather than politics or social issues. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: “Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement”Resources Mentioned: Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement by Harlan AccolaMovement MortgageRich 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.

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

May brings a flurry of activities—graduations, sports playoffs, and school events—that, while meaningful, can also lead to overwhelming stress. In our busy world, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle, often driven by societal pressures to do more, buy more, and be everywhere at once. Colossians 2:8 reminds us not to be swayed by the "hollow and deceptive philosophy" that glorifies materialism over spiritual values. We are often misled into thinking that accumulating possessions or filling our calendars is the path to fulfillment. However, these beliefs only bring chaos and stress, not peace. To combat this, the Bible offers clear guidance. Jesus, in John 14:6, states He is "the Way, the Truth, and the Life," emphasizing that true contentment comes from following Him, not from material wealth. Scriptures like Proverbs 23:5 and Psalm 31 encourage us to focus on spiritual richness rather than worldly allure. Proverbs 3:5–6 advises us to trust in the Lord and not lean on our own understanding, promising that this faith will direct our paths. Jesus taught us not to worry about daily needs but to prioritize spiritual pursuits, as stated in Matthew 6. He assures us that all else will follow by seeking God's kingdom first. So, in this busy month, take a moment to step back from the frenzy. Talk to the Lord, engage with His word, and recalibrate your priorities. By focusing on what's truly important, you can navigate May with peace and purpose. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment by Ron BlueChurch Cash Reserves - How Much Is Enough? (Article by Dan Busby and Michael Martin - ECFA)Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

The summer home buying season is straight ahead. Will sellers get a break on real estate commissions? The National Association of Realtors recently shocked the industry by dropping its 6% sales commission. What does that mean for home sellers this summer? Dale Vermillion fills us in today. Dale Vermillion is the author of Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home. This book covers everything you need to know about securing a mortgage—all from a biblical perspective. Industry watchers say this National Association of Realtors settlement will change how people buy houses. What is this settlement about? It’s about a lawsuit that the National Association of Realtors (NAR) settled regarding real estate commissions. Traditionally, commissions have been around 6% (3% to the buyer's agent and 3% to the seller's agent), but the lawsuit argued this controlled pricing. The settlement will require NAR to remove language requiring the seller to pay the buyer's agent commission, allowing buyers to negotiate commissions independently. Did the National Association of Realtors set that commission, or was it a suggestion? The 6% commission was a suggestion that had come out of NAR, but it had been in place for so long that there was a lot of back and forth about it over the years. The NAR did not officially set the commission percentage. If commissions were always negotiable, how would this settlement change things? It will give buyers and sellers more negotiating power when working with agents because commissions have always been negotiable but many agents don't negotiate them. It will directly affect buyer's agents, who must work harder to earn their commission. It may also affect agents who only sell one or two houses per year, as they may decide it's not worth it anymore. But it likely won't affect full-time agents. Some buyer's agents may become listing or dual agents to have more control over both sides of the transaction. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home by Dale VermillionRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Okay, before we get into the specific money wasters, there’s a general principle you should be aware of…if you’re buying things that provide only a temporary sense of satisfaction, you’re probably wasting money. It doesn’t matter what it is—if it’s unnecessary and you grow bored with it, it was a waste of money. Check your closets for examples. I’m not saying you should take a “vow of poverty.” The Lord wants us to enjoy the resources He’s given us, but that must be tempered by the principle that we’re merely stewards and must use His resources wisely. Of course, we live in a culture that promotes spending. It’s a big problem. One survey showed that the average adult spends around $1,500 monthly on non-essentials. No wonder so many Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. Imagine what that kind of money would do if put into savings or invested for retirement. Let’s look at our 6 money wasters for today…and what you can do about them. A restaurant-prepared meal will cost you three times what you would pay for the same meal cooked at home. Eventually, a smartphone will have to be replaced…but the longer you delay upgrading…the more money you keep in your pocket. This year’s red hot phone is next year’s discount model. And you have to ask how smart your phone needs to be. Most of us don’t use the features we have now. Clothes wear out and need to be replaced…so you must include that in your budget … but those spending decisions should be practical … not a way to boost your ego. willdon’tPlus, you don’t want to participate in something that disproportionately hurts the poor. A Bankrate report found that low-income households spend as much as 13% of their income on lottery tickets—far more than higher-income earners. So, instead of buying an extended warranty, do your homework to ensure you’re buying a quality item. Most will have an adequate manufacturer’s warranty anyway. Then, ensure you have enough money in your emergency fund to cover any necessary repairs. More and more folks are dropping cable and satellite TV and using only streaming apps, but even there, you can waste a lot of money. A survey by FinanceBuzz showed that a quarter of households have at least three more streaming apps than they did two years ago…and one in 10 reported having no idea how much they’re spending on streaming. So keep track of what you’re watching, and if you’re not getting your money’s worth from an app, drop it. That’s one great thing about streaming apps—no service contract, so you can drop it anytime. Okay, those are your 6 big-time money wasters. We hope you find this helpful. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Credit KarmaAnnualCreditReport.comRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Malachi 3:10 says, “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.” God isn’t just telling us to test Him with our giving—He’s challenging us to test Him. “Do it and see what I will do.” Why do you think many Christians are reluctant to do this? Many Christians are reluctant to test God with their finances because of greed. Greed is when we envy what others have or want something we don't have. This greed leads to a fear of lack and insufficient money if they prioritize giving over other expenses. Giving should come first to recognize God's ownership and break the power of money over our lives. God doesn’t promise to make us wealthy because we give generously. When you give, you need to give up ownership of the money and what happens to it after that is up to God. God does not promise that he will return the money multifold. People sometimes mistakenly attach that expectation to giving, but God does not explicitly promise wealth or return on investment in the act of giving. If I’m In Debt, Should I Decrease My Giving? The answer to that begins with a principle or a truth. The truth is this: God owns it all and is interested in it. If I believe that God owns it all, and it says that in many places in Scripture, God owns it all, it's all his. The earth and everything in it are the Lord's. He created it. If he owns it, and I'm a steward or a manager, I make a biblical decision every time I spend money. I'm making a stewardship decision, a scriptural decision. So if I'm paying off debt, I'm using God's money to pay off debt. If I tithe, I'm using God's money to tithe. He gave it to me. So we can begin by saying that from a scriptural standpoint, there's no difference in using God's money, whether I pay off debt or give because it all belongs to him. When you make giving your highest priority, you begin to set the right priorities for your money. Suppose you're in a crisis where you can't give and pay off debt, get some counsel. Get some accountability. If you reduce your giving to pay off debt, it needs to be under a plan and with accountability. The best accountability is to go to your pastor and say, “This is what I'm thinking of doing. Will you hold me accountable to it?” Do you agree with this decision so that you will eventually get out of debt? If you're using your giving dollars to get out of debt because you're in a crisis, do it with accountability and a plan—don't just do it. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

The Difference Between Online Banking and Online Banks These days, you can do online banking with almost any brick-and-mortar bank or credit union, although features and services will undoubtedly vary from one financial institution to another. Of course, online banks have no brick-and-mortar branches. They’re online-only, except for the ATM networks they use, all transactions with them are online. Okay, that’s the difference between online banks and online banking, but the reality is, that difference is getting smaller and smaller. The online features of brick-and-mortar banks do rival anything that online-only banks have. Still, some folks are wondering if we will not need brick-and-mortar banks someday. We’re probably a long way from that. People still need services only brick-and-mortar banks can provide, like businesses depositing coins and currency. You can’t do that online. The Effects of Online Banking There are still 77,500 bank branches in the U.S., which sounds like a lot, but it’s 12,500 fewer than five years ago. As more and more people do their banking online, traditional banks need fewer branches. You’ve probably noticed some of them closing in your area. We’ll probably always need brick-and-mortar banks—just fewer of them. So, with both online banks and online banking, it doesn’t matter where the bank is, and it also doesn’t matter where you are. You can do almost everything that needs to be done on your computer or smartphone. Now that’s convenient. Don’t ever use public Wi-Fi for your banking or any financial transaction. It’s too easy for hackers to steal your personal information. Now, there’s another massive advantage of online banking that few people think about. It doesn’t matter where the financial institution is; you can select any bank or credit union for your banking needs. You may have chosen a particular bank because they have many branches or even one branch conveniently located along your way home from work. Direct deposit long ago removed the need to stop and deposit a paycheck, but now you can deposit any check with your smartphone. Is there much of a difference between banks? Aren’t they all pretty much the same? Actually, no. Wouldn’t it be great to know that your financial institution supports Christian values making a positive change in the world and providing excellent service? Wouldn’t you want it to prioritize people over profit? Profit is not bad, but it can’t be the only priority. Stewardship is about 100% of what God gives us, not just the 10% in the offering plate. What if you could find and support faith-based institutions to help Christ's followers live and give more abundantly? Online banking can give you faith-aligned options once you choose an institution that aligns with your values. There are many great faith-aligned banks and credit unions available today. One example is Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of this program. Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU) CCCU offers online banking that can be accessed from anywhere in the country. It’s a great example of how our banking decisions can positively impact the kingdom. CCCU has donated over $6 million to ministry and mission projects in the U.S. and worldwide. And they’re using banking to leverage the money their members deposit with them to help construct new church buildings, expand ministries, and help Christian business owners thrive. If you’re looking for a faith-based banking solution that aligns with your beliefs and values, I’d encourage you to consider Christian Community Credit Union. Plus, each account is insured for up to $250,000 by ASI. You can find out more at JoinChristianCommunity.com. That’s JoinChristianCommunity.com. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Christian Community Credit UnionThe Sound Mind Investing Handbook by Austin Pryor and Mark BillerTrusted: Preparing Your Kids for a Lifetime of God-Honoring Money Management by Matt...

God Owns Everything Now, to be sure, the message that God owns everything—and we don’t—is something we need to hear repeatedly. That’s probably why the Bible repeats this teaching several times. Job needed reminding. Job 38:1-5 reads, “Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind and said: ‘Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge? Dress for action like a man; I will question you, and you make it known to me. Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who determined its measurements—surely you know!’” Psalm 24:1-2 tells us, “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein, for he has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers. And of course, Colossians 1:16 reads, “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.” This is a message that we need to hear constantly. It frees us from getting too attached to our money and possessions because they’re not our money and possessions—they belong to God. Putting Things Into Perspective You may have heard the story about the believer who took this to heart. He’d saved and saved to buy a new car, but soon after taking possession, he got into a fender bender. But he didn’t get upset. He shrugged it off and thought, “I wonder why God wanted His car to get in an accident?” That would undoubtedly be difficult, but it makes things much easier if you think of yourself only as a steward and not an owner. Okay, we’ve got stewardship covered, but what about that deeper meaning in these verses? For that, we need to consider the larger passage of Psalm 50— verses 10 through 15: “For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills. I know all the birds of the hills, and all that moves in the field is mine. If I were hungry, I would not tell you, for the world and its fullness are mine. Do I eat the flesh of bulls or drink the blood of goats? Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.” The psalmist is warning Israel that they’ve become legalistic with their sacrifices. They had come to put value on the sacrifices and, by extension, themselves. God already owns the beasts of the forest and the cattle on a thousand hills— indeed all the cattle on all the hills. He owns all creatures wild and tamed, the fowls in the mountains and beasts of the fields. That said, how could He possibly be impressed with the burnt offerings of the Israelites? They were just giving him back a tiny bit of what He already owned— and then patting themselves on the back for it. Nonetheless, God did require Israel to make those sacrifices to cover sin and something else temporarily. Note verse 14 again: “Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High.” This verse gives us the context we need to put things in perspective. That passage and others like it are about giving and our hearts' attitude. They’re not about legalism and checking boxes. Galatians 2:16 reads, “We know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ … by works of the law no one will be justified.” Cultivating An Attitude Of Gratitude When we give purely out of gratitude— expecting nothing and taking no pride in it— and certainly not to earn our way into heaven— only then are we giving Him the loyalty of our hearts. God is a spiritual being. What use does he have for earthly things? None, of course. He wants our hearts. He wants us to worship him in spirit and truth. Our tithing and gifts must only be tributes to our gratitude for what He has already given us—not just material things but the priceless gift of His Son Jesus Christ for our eternal salvation. We must...

At the most recent Kingdom Advisors Conference, John shared an incredible story about some friends of his and an inheritance decision they made: “I’ve got some friends who are a super sharp young couple in their 30s. His Father shared that he was about to give them a vast, multi-million-dollar inheritance. Amazing! But they had been reflecting carefully on money and faith for months. They said, ‘We are so grateful for this, but we’re already OK. And if we got this money, we’d start to rely on the shifting sands of this money for our security, instead of the firm foundation of Christ.’ Long story short, they worked with his Dad to use that money to advance God’s Kingdom through giving. I was blown away by that decision.” Three Ways That Jesus Interacted With Wealthy People So, if we go through the four Gospels and find the times Jesus interacted with a wealthy person, it happened a lot. He had a pretty unique pattern, and it was three things: So for us, in our wealth today, Jesus loves us, invites us, and challenges us. Jesus said You can’t serve God and money. Money promises us Pleasure, Possessions, Protection, and Position, but it can’t give us those things. We have to look for God to get them eternally and in truth. Is Jesus challenging us to sell our possessions and give everything to the poor? While he might ask us to do that, this is the only time Jesus tells anyone to sell it all in Scripture. Zacchaeus gave away half of his wealth, Peter left his boats, and Nicodemus, after the crucifixion, spent a fortune on the burial spices for Jesus, gaoing public with his faith. The beauty is that it will look different for each of us as we read Scripture carefully and listen for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. But we can be sure God will challenge us to mobilize our wealth in this world to bless people and to bring Him glory. How can we use our wealth to honor God and bless others? We want to invite them into a deeper, right relationship with God and others. There are four areas where we can do this: When we use our wealth for the benefit of others, it makes us richer spiritually. God is with us in that. How can people can learn more about biblical generosity? There’s a great ministry that works closely with Kingdom Advisors. It's called Generous Giving, and its video stories of Christian givers could greatly encourage anyone. Going to GenerousGiving.org, you can find dozens of sermons, stories, and resources to encourage you. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: True Riches: What Jesus Really Said About Money and Your Heart by John Cortines and Gregory BaumerGod and Money: How We Discovered True Riches at Harvard Business School by John Cortines and Gregory BaumerGenerousGiving.orgSound Mind InvestingRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

The Playbook for Chronic Anxiety It's generated by assumptions, expectations, false beliefs, and false needs. So, if we can uncover false needs, we can learn to die to them and relax into God's sovereignty. This is a compelling way to grow in our relationship with faith. We can use our anxiety triggers to open our souls up to God's presence. What is an assumption you hold about yourself that's unreasonable? If you’re a perfectionist, almost every assumption you hold about yourself is unreasonable. Think about it. When was the last time you looked at your work and said, "That was well done." Perfectionism is always chasing a carrot we can never reach. It’s a treadmill to nowhere. Anxiety has a competing gospel. The idea out of all of the gospels is that this is the only gospel where God pays and the human benefits. In every other belief system, the human pays and the god benefits. If you think about ancient sacrifice systems, even in the Roman Empire and the Egyptian Empire back in the days of Moses, humans paid, and the gods benefited. In the Roman Empire, Caesar Augustus's nickname was the son of god and the most profound confession of faith in Rome was Caesar is lord. And along come Luke and Paul, and they say, "Nope." The people paid and paid, and Caesar got all the benefits. For perfectionists, this message will free you when you realize that perfectionism is a gospel that makes you pay for its benefits. The Treadmill To Nowhere God is not asking you to be perfect. God is asking you to be human-sized. You're expecting yourself to be perfect. You are living out of a gospel of self. Whether you’re a perfectionist or a people pleaser, you’ll realize you can never please people enough because it is forever a carrot out of reach. Or a treadmill with no end in sight. Chronic anxiety is like a personal trainer tapeworm. If you’ve ever had a tapeworm, you usually don’t even know you have it because they are so small and feed off your energy. That’s how they grow. That's what anxiety does. It grows by consuming you, and like perfectionism or people pleasing, it puts you on a treadmill to nowhere. As you run, it’s pushing the incline and go-faster buttons into burnout, and you're not getting anywhere. God doesn’t want us to be anxious, especially about finances. We need only to be faithful stewards and trust Him to provide because He always does. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Resources Mentioned: Being Human with Steve Cuss (A Podcast by Christianity Today)The Expectation Gap: The Tiny, Vast Space between Our Beliefs and Experience of God by Steve CussNew York State - Department of Financial ServicesRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.