Faith & Finance

Well, it’s hard to believe, but soon, the kids will be heading back to school. Are you ready to start the new school year on the right foot? Could you use a few tips? Well, you’re in for a treat. Crystal Paine joins us today with some great advice to make your back-to-school experience easier.Crystal Paine is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com and the author of The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most.Budgeting for Back-to-School EssentialsAs the new school year approaches, parents are reminded of the inevitable expenses, from clothes to school supplies and electronics. It’s crucial to start with the essentials. Determine what is necessary and set a budget. For families with older children, involve them in the process by giving them a budget for their back-to-school needs. This teaches financial responsibility and helps them prioritize their wants and needs.Also, it’s worth looking into whether your school offers package deals on back-to-school products. These can often be cost-effective and save time compared to buying items individually. For the best deals on school supplies, clothes, and even laptops, it is highly recommended that you follow MoneySavingMom.com and sign up for their hot deals email list.Making the Most of Tax-Free WeekendsTax-free weekends can be an excellent opportunity to save on back-to-school purchases. Check if your state offers tax-free weekends, what items are covered, and the specific dates. Planning allows you to maximize savings, especially on more significant purchases like electronics or even groceries if they are included.Shopping with Kids: A Learning OpportunityTaking kids shopping for back-to-school items can be a valuable learning experience. If your children are new to budget shopping, it might be better to leave them at home initially. However, parents should prioritize teaching their kids how to stick to a budget over the coming months. Give them opportunities to earn and spend money wisely, learning from the process.Establishing a School RoutineRe-establishing a good routine before school starts is crucial. Start a few weeks before school begins. Practice waking up at the required time and go through the morning routine. Involve the entire family in this process by discussing and planning it together. A successful morning routine often begins the night before. Preparing as much as possible the night before—laying out clothes, packing lunches, and planning breakfast—sets up the next day for success.Maintaining Spiritual Balance During Hectic TimesThe back-to-school season can be hectic, but maintaining spiritual balance is essential. Start your day with prayer, entrusting God with your worries and tasks. Pray for your kids, spouse, and the details of your day. Incorporate God’s Word into your daily routine—listen to the Bible on audio while getting ready, play worship music in the car, or read a devotional with your kids at breakfast. Demonstrating reliance on God and releasing stress to Him is a powerful example for children.Preparing for the school year doesn’t have to be overwhelming or financially draining. With careful planning, budgeting, and a focus on spiritual balance, parents can navigate this busy season with confidence and grace.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have two kids who are in college right now. My grandfather set up a 529 for each of them some years ago, and he passed away in 2010. I had another daughter who was born in 2010. Can that money be applied to my younger daughter with the money left over in one of my two older kids' 529 plans after graduating college?I haven't done any IRAs in about 20 years. I was told I could catch up. Is that true?Do I need to be concerned about my CDs at the bank and what the bank is investing my money in?My husband and I have always tithed because we believe everything we have is God's. But we struggle with where we're at in church and some of their financial decisions. So, tithing has been problematic when we disagree with what they're investing money in. Are we wrong? Is the church wrong?Resources Mentioned:MoneySavingMom.comChristian 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 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.

Paying off debt is always a good thing…but paying it off before retirement is one of the best financial moves you’ll ever make.It’s a disturbing trend: more people than ever are retiring with debt. That reduces their lifestyle choices and increases the likelihood they’ll have to return to work at some point. Today, we’ll talk about carrying debt into retirement and how you can avoid it.Preparing for a Debt-Free Retirement: A Practical GuideAccording to the Federal Reserve's 2022 Survey of Consumer Finances, 65% of people aged 65 to 74 are in debt, up from 50% 35 years ago. This rising debt can severely impact your lifestyle in retirement and might even force you to return to work. Proverbs 22:7 warns, “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.”A recent report by T. Rowe Price revealed that 20% of previously retired individuals are back to work, either full or part-time, and another 7% are actively seeking employment. The primary reason? The need for more income. Inflation has increased costs by about 15% over the past three years, stretching many retirement budgets thin, especially those burdened with debt.Steps to Achieve a Debt-Free RetirementSet a Goal to Eliminate Debt Before Retirement—If you're 5, 10, or 15 years away from retirement, aim to have all your debts paid off by then. Eliminating a mortgage, car payment, or other debts can allow you to live on less and create a critical financial margin in retirement. Prepare for Economic Downturns—Debt restricts financial flexibility, especially during economic slowdowns and stock market declines. Since the economy moves in cycles, preparing for these downturns is essential.Practical Strategies to Pay Off DebtCut Expenses—Review your budget and eliminate unnecessary expenses. Often, we continue paying for things out of habit. A thorough budget overhaul can free up funds to pay down debt. Increase Your Income—Consider side work or other income-generating opportunities. Increasing your income, coupled with reducing expenses, can help you knock out debt faster. Downsize Your Home—If feasible, downsizing to a smaller house can be a significant financial move. Selling a larger home can provide enough equity to pay off the mortgage and purchase a smaller home with cash or a much smaller mortgage. This also reduces expenses like property taxes and maintenance costs. Accelerate Mortgage Payments—If downsizing isn’t an option, focus on speeding up your mortgage payments. Use any extra income or savings from reduced expenses to pay down the mortgage principal. Making just one extra payment a year can significantly reduce the loan term and interest paid over the life of the loan. Tackle Credit Card Debt—Inflation increases credit card interest rates. To manage credit card debt, make more than the minimum payments. Use the “snowball method” by paying off the smallest balance first, then moving on to the next. This method is highly effective. Avoid Using Home Equity to Pay Off Consumer Debt—Using home equity to pay off credit card debt converts unsecured debt to secured debt, risking your home if payments aren’t made. Additionally, it doesn’t address the spending habits that led to the debt. Seek Professional Help—If you have more than $4,000 in credit card debt, consider contacting Christian Credit Counselors. They can help you create a debt management plan to pay off your debt 80% faster than going it alone.The Benefits of a Debt-Free RetirementAt FaithFi, we’ve never heard from anyone who regretted paying off their consumer debt or mortgage. Planning to get out of debt before retirement dramatically improves your chances of staying retired. This provides financial peace and frees up more time and resources to give back to God’s Kingdom.While the current financial landscape may be challenging, taking proactive steps now can ensure a more secure and fulfilling retirement. Start today, and you'll thank yourself in the years to come.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I recently retired and had a bad experience with an advisor who lost over $100,000 of my money in just a few months. What steps should I take to find an advisor I can trust? What questions should I ask them to ensure they fit me well?Should I pay cash or finance a piece of property I want to buy for $330,000? It's four acres of land behind where I live, and my friend is selling it to me. I have a lot of money in treasuries and CDs, but I don't have any credit. What do you recommend? Should I pay cash for the land using my treasuries and CDs, or should I try to finance it even though I don't have good credit?I'm receiving VA disability benefits, which are not taxable, but will my Social Security retirement be taxable? Will the VA benefits count as income, affecting how much my Social Security retirement is taxed?Given her situation, I’m wondering how to protect my mother's assets, including her 401k and home. She is 67 years old and has been diagnosed with dementia. I'm concerned about how to ensure my mother has access to her 401k to help pay for care if she needs to go into a home, but I also want to protect her assets and the house for inheritance down the road. What options do we have to do this?Resources Mentioned:Christian Credit CounselorsRich 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 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.

Is it the best of times or the worst of times? Well, it all depends on if you’re trying to buy or sell a house.It really is a matter of perspective. Home values remain sky-high and are likely to continue rising in the foreseeable future. How you view that depends on which side of the transaction you’re on.Navigating the Current Housing Market: Tips for First-Time Home BuyersIt may be the worst of times if you're a first-time home buyer. Home values have never been higher, thanks to the continued high cost of building materials, inflation, and low inventory. Coupled with mortgage rates of around 7%, buying your first home is undeniably an uphill battle.Moving Up in the MarketIf you're moving up—selling a starter home and buying one that fits your current needs—the situation is slightly different. While your dream house is more expensive, so is the house you're selling, which helps offset high home values. However, higher interest rates have many prospective home sellers sitting on the sidelines, waiting for rates to drop. This results in fewer homes on the market, driving up prices even more.Downsizing: A Silver LiningFor those downsizing, it truly is the best of times. You can sell a larger, more expensive home, pay off any existing mortgage, and be mortgage-free in your new, smaller home. This transition can leave you with a sizable nest egg for future needs.Market Trends and PredictionsThe housing market has always been influenced by these factors, but they are currently exaggerated by inflation and rising prices. Recent data shows a 6.5% increase in home values over the past year. Analysts predict that while home prices will continue to rise, the growth rate will begin to slow.Steps to Take if You’re Buying a HomeCheck Your Credit Reports—First, obtain all three credit reports from Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax for free at AnnualCreditReport.com. Review them carefully and dispute any errors to boost your credit score, which will help you secure the lowest possible interest rate on your mortgage. Consult a Mortgage Loan Officer—Meet with a mortgage loan officer for guidance on the loan application and approval process. During the first visit, you don’t need to provide your personal financial information, but you should ask about programs for first-time home buyers. Assess Your Borrowing Capacity—Eventually, you’ll need to share your financial details with a loan officer to determine your debt-to-income ratio and how much you can borrow. Avoid borrowing the maximum amount the lender offers, as this can strain your budget. Aim to keep your mortgage payments within 25% of your take-home pay. Save for a Down Payment—Assemble the largest down payment you can. Putting down 20% helps you avoid private mortgage insurance, which costs around 1% of the loan amount annually. Reserve a few thousand dollars for unexpected expenses when you move in, avoiding reliance on credit cards. Get Pre-Approved—Shop around for the best interest rate and mortgage provider. Pre-approval strengthens your position as a buyer and helps streamline the home-buying process.A Mortgage with a PurposeConsider working with Movement Mortgage, a Christian mortgage company founded during the 2008 housing crisis. They offer competitive rates and a chance to contribute to a global movement of change. Movement Mortgage has donated $377 million to community projects and has locations in all 50 states. Learn more at Movement.com/Faith.Finding Your New HomeMake a list of essential features for your new home and connect with a knowledgeable real estate agent. Keep your list of “must-haves” short to stay flexible in this strong seller’s market.If possible, wait until winter to make an offer. Buyer competition typically decreases during colder months, giving you an edge.That's the current state of the housing market and a few tips to help you navigate it. We hope these insights and strategies assist you in your home-buying journey.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:How do I determine my tithe amount when liquidating a portion of my long-term investment holdings, which include stocks and bonds? Sometimes, the investment shows a slight increase over the principal in a year, but other times, there is a loss. I would like to know how to calculate my tithe since I wouldn't be cashing out the whole investment.Should I move some of my precious metals into my IRA, which I want to diversify into, or should I keep them at home where I can physically possess them? I'm particularly interested in silver since gold is quite expensive.Is making a living off the interest from my IRA investments through a financial advisor considered evil according to passages in the Bible that prohibit putting out money at interest or getting interest from my investments?Would an irrevocable trust be taxable after death, or would it just go back to the will already in place? How do the taxes work with an irrevocable trust if the original owner dies?Resources Mentioned:Movement MortgageAnnualCreditReport.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 every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep.” - Genesis 1:1-2I’m sure you’re more than familiar with those first lines of the Bible…but are you aware of the economic implications of the creation story? Jerry Bowyer fills us in today.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. Understanding the BeginningIn the opening verses of Genesis, we learn that the earth was formless, void, and dark. This detail is crucial for two reasons: it sets the stage for the rest of Genesis 1 and highlights God's creative process. When we understand that the earth was initially disorganized, empty, and dark, we can appreciate God's work in bringing order and fullness.God’s Creative ProcessFor the first few days of creation, God deals with the earth's formlessness by separating elements: light from darkness, waters above from waters below, and dry land from the sea. This separation creates structure. Then, God begins to fill what He has organized. He populates the sky with the sun, moon, stars, the seas with fish, and the land with plants and animals. Ultimately, He fills the earth with humanity.The first thing God does is turn on the light, akin to how we start our workday by turning on the light in our office. God’s act of turning on the light symbolizes bringing clarity and purpose to the day ahead.The Significance of “It Was So”Genesis often states, "Let us do such and such, and it was so." This phrase can be confusing as it seems out of order. However, it signifies that God’s actions were deliberate and agreed upon, possibly within the Trinity or with the angels. This consensus highlights the collaborative nature of God's work, which we can emulate in our own lives by seeking agreement and unity in our endeavors.Evaluating Our WorkGenesis 1:18 says, “God saw that it was good.” This implies that after creating, God stopped to evaluate His work. Similarly, we should regularly review and assess our efforts to ensure they meet our standards and God's approval. This practice underscores the inherent goodness of the material world and our role in stewarding it responsibly.Humanity's Unique RoleAfter creating humanity, God saw that it was "very good." Humans are unique because we are made in God’s image, capable of forming, filling, and evaluating our work. This divine likeness sets us apart from the rest of creation, emphasizing our unique role in God's plan.Our Relationship with CreationHumanity’s relationship with the garden and the earth is distinct. The garden was a cultivated space where Adam and Eve learned from God. However, the rest of the earth was wild and needed to be subdued and developed. This mandate to cultivate and improve the earth remains fundamental to our purpose.Any economic philosophy that discourages development contradicts this biblical mandate. While we must avoid pollution and destruction, we are called to transform and utilize the earth's resources to promote human flourishing.Applying Creation Principles to EconomicsIn our daily work, turning raw materials into useful products—like sand into microprocessors or seeds into crops—is not optional but a divine command. This creative mandate is essential for economic growth and human flourishing. Neglecting it leads to stagnation and conflict.Understanding the creation story from an economist's perspective reveals God's intention for humanity to bring order, fill the earth, and evaluate our work. Our work, done unto the Lord, is part of His grand plan and promotes true human flourishing.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I recently borrowed money on my life insurance. Should I declare that on my income taxes next year?In Florida, many of us have 55-deed-restricted homes. Many fees are involved, and quite a few have gone up. There is the recreation and fitness membership, which is deeded to the house. Can we get out of something like this?My question is about my work annuity. What's the best way for me to use it when I retire so that I don't lose money and it can continue to grow? A friend lost 18% by taking a lump sum; I wonder if that was taxes or penalties.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 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.

You have to be at least 62 to collect Social Security…maybe because it takes that long to understand the program.Do you have questions about Social Security? Of course you do. Who doesn’t? Well, you don’t want to miss today’s program. Eddie Holland is back to answer more of your questions about Social Security.Eddie Holland is a Senior Private Wealth Advisor and partner of Blue Trust in Greenville, South Carolina. He’s also a CPA, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), and a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®).Can You Claim Benefits Early and Switch Later? You can claim Social Security benefits at 62 and switch to spousal benefits later if the spousal benefit is higher than your own. However, if your benefit is higher, you must take that instead. Conversely, you must wait to claim spousal benefits first and then switch to your benefit at full retirement age; you must take the higher of the two benefits available.Survivor Benefits Exception Survivor benefits are an exception where you can take one benefit and let the other grow. For instance, a widow can claim a survivor benefit as early as 60 and then switch to her benefit at 70, which would have grown due to delayed retirement credits.Taxation of Social Security Benefits Social Security benefits can be taxed based on your combined income, including half of your Social Security benefits, adjusted gross income, and any tax-exempt interest. Federal taxes apply progressively, with higher income leading to more taxable benefits.Roth Conversions and Social Security Be cautious with Roth conversions, as they can increase your combined income and make more of your Social Security benefits taxable. This strategy might push you into a higher marginal tax bracket.Stopping Benefits If you decide to stop your Social Security benefits, you can do so within the first 12 months of receiving them if you're under full retirement age. Beyond that, you can pause benefits after reaching full retirement age to earn delayed retirement credits.Scams and Social Security There is an increasing problem of Social Security scams. Legitimate Social Security issues will be communicated via mail, not phone calls, emails, or social media messages. If in doubt, always verify by setting up an appointment with your local Social Security office.If you have questions about your benefits, consider consulting a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®) who can provide tailored advice for your unique situation. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I already have an LLC as a sole proprietor but want to set up another one. When I research online, I see that there are so many different options, such as having a holding company or adding a trust above the holding company. Which structure would be best for my situation? What do you recommend regarding how I should go about setting up another LLC?I recently sold a vehicle and bought another one, and I had some savings, totaling about $25,000, available after my emergency fund was covered. I also took money out of my Thrift Savings Plan (retirement account) two years ago to purchase a home, and the balance on that loan is around $25,000 at a very low interest rate. Given this situation, what would your advice be for where I should put this extra $25,000 - pay down the TSP loan, pay down the auto loan, or invest in the open market?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 every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you’re tired of living paycheck-to-paycheck…you can make a decision today that will change your life.All you have to do is practice God’s financial principles and then wait to see what happens. You’ll be amazed at the results.Admitting the ProblemLike most things, the first step in making financial changes is admitting that you have a problem and then identifying what you’re doing wrong. So, what’s not right with the way you’re handling money?Maybe you worry about bouncing a check, or you fear the phone ringing because it might be a bill collector, or you’re dealing with the gas or electricity being turned off for non-payment. Maybe you argue with your spouse about money. Or you’ve stopped giving to your church because you’re afraid you won’t have enough.Those are all signs that something needs to change. And you shouldn’t fear that change. It might be a little scary initially…but it’s nowhere near as scary as living paycheck to paycheck. Following God’s principles will give you welcome relief from worrying about money.Embracing Change Through FaithIsaiah 43:18-19 tells us, “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”So, how do you begin to bring about this change? First, dispelling the notion that God’s Word doesn’t contain everything you need to transform how you handle money.Hebrews 4:12 reads, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”Understanding and believing in biblical truth is essential. The first principle you need to grasp is that God owns everything.Recognizing God's OwnershipPsalm 24:1 says, “The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, the world, and those who live in it.” When you fully embrace that principle…everything else can fall into place.You won’t be consumed with thoughts about how you’re handling your money…because it’s not yours. Instead, you’ll begin to think about managing God’s money…because you’re simply His steward…or manager…of the resources He’s temporarily entrusted to you.And as His steward…God will never abandon you to fend for yourself. He’s always with you, and He’s promised to provide. Luke 12:24 reads, “Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap…they have neither storehouse nor barn…yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds!”Applying Biblical PrinciplesOnce you believe that God will provide…Scripture becomes your guide for changing the way you think and act about money. Instead of running away from God’s financial principles, you’ll run to them. The Bible says a lot about spending, saving, investing, and getting out of debt, along with contentment and generosity—everything you need to know for wise money management.Take just one principle to start. Pray earnestly about it. Ask God for strength, discipline, and the desire to carry it out. Maybe that’s setting aside a few dollars from your paycheck, paying more than the minimum on your credit card, or setting aside a little more to give to your church. Pick one and stick with it. Then, when it’s part of your life…you can go on to the next…and the next.Practical Tools for ChangeThis is putting the principle into practice. You do that with tools and structure…a budget, a will, a long-term financial plan, and so on.If you’re not living on a budget…you need to develop a spending plan now. Proverbs 27:23 teaches, “Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds.” These days, our “herds and flocks” are our bank accounts and other financial assets.There’s no better tool for developing a spending plan than the FaithFi app. With three money management options, you can easily find one that fits your unique needs and preferences.Seeking AccountabilityNow, many people find it difficult to change by themselves. As our friend Howard Dayton says, they need someone to encourage them and hold them accountable “to hold their fuzzy feet to the fire.”You may need someone to keep you on track. It could be a spouse, another family member, or a friend—but someone to hold you accountable for staying on budget.So, those are the tools you need to start putting God’s financial principles into practice. When you do, you’ll see significant changes in your life—not right away, but be patient—it’ll happen.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Would building a new home be a good use of my money at 74, or would that be greedy? I have enjoyed the home-building process before and still feel energetic. I also have a trusted contractor who has already made plans for the new home.I have a question about options for an unwanted timeshare I purchased years ago. I'm tired of paying the high annual maintenance fees, but I need help finding a helpful property. Could I donate the timeshare to charity or otherwise get rid of it?I was recently approached about transferring the money to an insurance company that claimed they could add 30% to the amount and guarantee an 8% annual return over ten years. Is this a good idea? Do you have any other recommendations for what to do with my 401k funds? I also wanted to know what questions I should ask the insurance company to ensure the opportunity wasn't too good to be true.Resources Mentioned:Timeshare Users GroupRich 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 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.

Beauty matters to painters, musicians, and photographers, but what does it have to do with investing? The creation account suggests that beauty is also at the core of faithful stewardship and investing. Today, we’ll discuss “Investing in Beautiful” with Jason Myhre of the Eventide Center for Faith & Investing.Jason Myhre is the Executive Director of the Eventide Center for Faith & Investing, an educational initiative of Eventide Asset Management, and an underwriter of Faith & Finance. The Experience of BeautyWe all encounter beauty in various forms—an orchestral performance, a mountain hike, a beach stroll, or even a bouquet of flowers at home. However, we seldom consider the role of beauty in our work or finances. Beauty is integral to creation and essential in our stewardship of God’s world.In Genesis, God is depicted as a worker, creating the heavens and the earth and declaring His creation "very good." The Hebrew word for "good" encompasses moral perfection, functional excellence, and surpassing beauty—a concept better captured by the compound word "beauty-good." God, as a master artisan, crafted a world full of potential and delight.Humanity is called to contribute to the beauty and goodness of creation through work. Genesis 2:15 says, “Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to cultivate it and tend it.” This passage indicates that humans are to make God's creation even better. God’s creation is full of hidden potential, like seeds, waiting for us to uncover and develop it through our work.Uncovering Creation’s PotentialConsider simple examples like bread and wine. God created grain with the potential to become bread and grapes with the potential to become wine. These transformations reveal the hidden potential within creation, brought to fruition through human work.A more sophisticated example relevant today is semiconductors, which are essential for our smart devices and computers. The fundamental material for semiconductors is sand. Kristen Say from Eventide Asset Management aptly describes it: “With semiconductors, we’re taking sand and teaching it to think.” This potential was embedded in creation from the beginning, waiting for us to uncover and develop it.Theologian Craig Bartholomew also offers a powerful analogy: Imagine being a sculptor and receiving a call from Michelangelo, who asks you to complete a sculpture he started. This mirrors our role in God’s creation: to finish and enhance the work God began, thereby revealing all its hidden beauty and goodness and glorifying God as the ultimate Creator.Applying This Vision to Business and InvestingAs Christians with a biblical worldview, we must view business and investing through the lens of this divine vision. The Genesis instructions for developing the beauty and goodness of creation still apply to us today. Businesses are called to create products and services that are genuinely good, and that truly serve humanity. Investors play a crucial role by supplying the capital that enables and expands the good work of businesses.When contemplating investments, we should ask whether the companies we invest in create goods and services that enhance the world or harm God's creation. Embracing this perspective helps align our investments with our faith, ensuring they contribute positively to God's world.Faith-Based InvestingThe good news is that the faith-based investing movement is growing. Numerous Christian faith-based investments now help us avoid companies whose products contradict biblical values while supporting those that meet human needs and enhance the world.Understanding and developing the hidden potential in God's creation is a profound aspect of our work and investments. By aligning our investments with Christian values, we honor God and contribute to the ongoing revelation of His creation’s beauty and goodness.To learn more about faith-based investment resources and to find a list of faith-based investment options, visit faithandinvesting.com/faithfi.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:A close family member is dealing with excessive medical debt that totals around $200,000. They had long-term medical issues and were unable to work for a period of time. Some of these bills have now gone to collections agencies. I'm figuring out how to handle this debt and where to go. We've been helping them occasionally, but their living expenses are tight.Resources Mentioned:Eventide Center for Faith & InvestingRich 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 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.

It’s the 4th of July—the day we celebrate our nation’s independence. It’s also a great day to take stock of your financial independence.Are you on the road to financial freedom? Or are you falling under the bondage of money? It’s one or the other. Either you control your money…or your money controls you. The Gift of Financial FreedomIndependence gave our nation freedom, and financial independence provides us with the freedom to make choices. When we control our money, we can decide where and how we live, where we work, and how much we work. However, financial freedom doesn't mean independence from God. Everything we have comes from Him, including our ability to earn money. James 1:17 reminds us, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."God's Desire for Our Financial FreedomTo achieve financial freedom, we must remember that God desires it for us so that we can be more generous and serve Him more fully. Unfortunately, many people say they’d love to give more to God’s kingdom but can't afford to. The more control we have over our household finances, the more generous we can be, and that’s why financial freedom is crucial.The Burden of DebtA significant obstacle to financial freedom is debt. Proverbs 22:7 warns us, “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.” When we’re in debt, we work for someone else, not ourselves or God. The more we pay to service debt each month, the less freedom we have to use that money in other ways, including serving God.Debt is just one form of financial bondage. Another, often harder to recognize, is the mindset that material things will make us happy. When we strive to acquire more, we may find that our possessions end up owning us. Money is a tool to be used wisely, and having a lot of it can enslave us as effectively as debt if we’re not careful. The Bible warns about our attitude toward wealth. 1 Timothy 6:10 says, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.”Signs of Financial BondageHere are some signs of financial bondage: You think about money constantly and have no peace with God. Your focus is on daily concerns rather than eternal ones. You struggle to give generously, even when you have the means. This reluctance indicates a lack of financial freedom. Additionally, a lack of contentment is a red flag. You'll never have enough if you always want more and are never satisfied with God’s provision.Ecclesiastes 5:10 says, “He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income; this also is vanity.”The Path to Financial FreedomSo, how do we get back on the road to financial freedom? If you’re in debt, stop borrowing, get on a budget, and start paying down your debt. The FaithFi app can help you set up your budget quickly and easily. If you have plenty of money but no peace, try giving more. Giving breaks the power that money has to enslave us.By following God’s principles for managing money—avoiding debt, saving diligently, and giving generously—you can experience true financial freedom. This freedom enhances your life and empowers you to serve God more fully and generously.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:How should I invest for retirement as a 26-year-old single man? As suggested by my financial advisor, I had been considering an IUL (indexed universal life insurance plan). Still, I was uncertain if that was the best option given my long time horizon and ability to take risks at my age.Should I use $6,000 from my Roth account to pay down some of my $24,000 in credit card debt, reducing it to $18,000? I contacted a debt management company, which said they could lower my interest rate to 12%, but I would have to pay $540 per month, which I can't afford. The debt management company said that if I took $6,000 from my Roth to pay the debt, my monthly payment would be around $415, which I think I can afford.I’m about to meet with my financial advisor, who I am not happy with at the moment. I’m 71 and have $265,000 left in my Wells Fargo account. How should I allocate my investments moving forward, and how should I communicate with him when I meet to discuss my portfolio?Resources Mentioned:The Sound Mind Investing Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Managing Your Money From a Biblical Perspective by Austin Pryor with Mark BillerMovement 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 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.

2 Corinthians 9:6 says, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.”God’s Word repeatedly challenges us to be generous givers to our families and His Kingdom. When should we do this giving? Are we waiting too long? Ron Blue joins us today with an idea you may not have thought about.Ron Blue is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, most notably “Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment.”The Joy of GivingThere is immense joy in seeing the impact of your generosity firsthand. Whether you give $20 to someone working in an airport bathroom or support a charity, the act of giving not only helps others but also enriches your own life.Preparing for Wealth TransferOne practical aspect of this principle is involving your children in your financial generosity. By allowing them to see and participate in how you handle and distribute your wealth, you prepare them for the future. This hands-on experience can be vital to your wealth transfer or estate plan, ensuring that your values and approach to money are passed down.Defining Your Financial Finish LineTo give maximally, you should define your financial finish line. This means determining what you must live on for the rest of your life and setting a limit. Once you reach this limit, you are free to give away the excess. This clear boundary simplifies financial decisions and opens up opportunities for greater generosity.True joy and fulfillment come from using our resources to make a difference while we can see the results. By defining our financial finish line and involving our families, we can ensure that our generosity leaves a lasting legacy.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Do you have any recommendations on pamphlets or printouts about giving to the church or tithing?Should I set up a revocable trust for my farm and assets to ensure an uninterrupted transfer of the farming business to my farming heirs when I pass away? I'm concerned about avoiding probate costs and ensuring the assets are distributed according to my wishes.I was looking at purchasing some land and paying cash for it. But I am looking at putting it into a revocable trust. That way, when I pass, it can go right to my children and grandchildren and not go through a probate court or have all the taxes and fees and everything that, you know, happens when somebody dies. I also asked if putting it in a revocable trust would keep all of the inheritance tax and everything away or if there would still be some of that tax.I have an extra $400 a month that I don’t know what to do with. Should I put it in my IRA, which has $2000, or my husband's IRA, which has $80,000, or put the extra $400 a month towards our mortgage payment?Resources Mentioned:Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment by Ron BlueSplitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives by Ron Blue with Jeremy WhiteMoney, Possessions, and Eternity: A Comprehensive Guide to What the Bible Says about Financial Stewardship, Generosity, Materialism, Retirement, Financial Planning, Gambling, Debt, and More by 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 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.

Did you know that anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the U.S. today? You might assume that we have a major anxiety problem just by the number of commercials you see for new medicines to treat these disorders, but is anxiety really a new thing?The Reality Of AnxietyModern medicine recognizes anxiety in many forms: generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety, and various phobias. Data shows nearly a third of all U.S. adults will experience some form of anxiety in their lifetime. The cost of treating anxiety disorders in the U.S. runs into the tens of billions of dollars, with an even higher economic impact due to lost productivity.What causes this widespread anxiety? According to the Mayo Clinic, the causes aren’t fully understood but likely include physical and mental health issues, as well as negative life events such as job loss or financial troubles.If you’re struggling with persistent anxiety, it’s crucial to see a doctor. Medication and counseling can be transformative.Jesus’ Teachings On AnxietyDespite appearing like a modern affliction exacerbated by hectic schedules, technology overload, and perhaps even diet, anxiety is not new. We know this because Jesus addresses it in the Bible, particularly Matthew 6 and Luke 12.Matthew 6:25-26 says: “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”Imagine the disciples traveling around Galilee and Judea, relying on donations for their needs. It’s easy to see why they might have felt anxious about where they’d sleep or their next meal. Jesus encourages them to have faith. In Matthew 6:31-33, He says:“Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”Resisting The Love Of MoneyJohn Rinehart, founder of Gospel Patrons, explains that Jesus aims to free us from fear and anxiety to be distinct from the world. The world often idolizes money and seeks comfort and security through wealth. While financial planning is important, it shouldn’t be for the sake of leisure alone. Rinehart notes that the world is preoccupied with wealth, which can be perilous for Christians.Jesus warns of this temptation, emphasizing the need to resist the love of money by recognizing our value to God. He made us with a purpose. Jesus instructs us to seek God’s Kingdom and righteousness first, promising our needs will be met.We must actively participate in our provision and trust God to fulfill His promise. When we understand our worth to God, we’ll pursue His Kingdom and boldly share the Gospel, glorifying Him in the process.The Choice We All Have To MakeUltimately, we all face a choice: will we follow the world or seek the Kingdom of God and His righteousness? We can’t do both. As Jesus states in Matthew 6:24:“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”Choose God over money and watch the cares of the world fade away.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have two debts here that I'd like to see which one to tackle first. One is obviously just my own mortgage, which I have about 5% interest. And the other one is a small business loan I obtained a couple of years ago at a lower interest rate of 3.5%. I don't know if it makes sense to put all my extra income and money now that I have come to every extra income towards an SBA loan or if you should go ahead and try to pay the home off.I have a couple of CD IRAs above from my wife and me. One was a four-year and a two-year one a while ago, but they both matured around the same time. When I went to roll over the CD IRAs, they were like $20,000, and they said you can only put in $7,000 per person now. I'm wondering what I should do because otherwise, I must pay taxes.I recently received mail promoting a service called ID Resolve. Is it worth it to get these ID protection plans? We have a term life insurance policy that is ending. We can cash it out or roll it into a whole life policy, but we have other adequate life insurance. I'm just wondering if there's a way to put that money in a savings account for our child's college expenses in about a year and a half that would not be painful for taxes.Resources Mentioned:1PasswordLastPassRich 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 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.