Faith & Finance

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 survey didn’t break debt down into specific types, other surveys have pointed to an increase in the number of people bringing a mortgage into their later years and how that hinders their financial freedom. As we’ve recommended before, it’s wise to plan to retire your mortgage by the time you retire. And, if rates ever go down again and you decide to refinance, be careful not to reset the 30-year payoff clock to a date past your intended retirement age.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a question about comparing the TSP and a Roth IRA. Are there differences in how you can use the money when you can take it out, or anything?I have a long-term care plan for myself, but I do not have one for my husband. So if I had to put him in a nursing home, are they going to take away all of our land and our property?Resources Mentioned:Helpful Lessons From Today’s Retirees by Matt Bell (Article on Sound Mind Investing)Sound Mind Investing2024 Retirement Confidence Survey (EBRI)SSA.gov (Social Security Administration)Retirement Planning CalculatorsRich 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’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 InterestWhen 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:Create a Spending Plan: A budget is essential. The FaithFi app can help you set up a spending plan using the envelope system, track your spending, and identify areas to cut back, freeing up more cash for your mortgage.Identify Extra Cash: Determine how much extra money you can allocate to your mortgage. Even small amounts make a significant difference over time.Use Unexpected Income: Apply bonuses, tax refunds, or any unexpected money directly to your mortgage principal.Track Your Progress: Set up an online account with your lender to easily apply extra payments and monitor your principal balance. Watching it decrease can keep you motivated.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:I purchased a home nine years ago to provide housing for my mother. I had put her on the mortgage and deed for the home to get it financed. Since then, I have paid off the home. Would it be best to have my mother sign the deed through a quitclaim deed so that I can move ownership of the home back to myself, or could I put the home into a trust I have set up? I want to ensure the proper steps are taken, and the home is handled appropriately after my mother and I are gone.My wife passed away in March at the age of 60. She had retired from her career as an educator but was not yet drawing Social Security. I will turn 63 in July and don't plan to start drawing my own Social Security until age 67 or later since my health is good. Can I apply for Social Security benefits now and suspend my own, instead of drawing on my late wife's benefits, so that mine can continue to grow until I need to start drawing on them?I will be turning 69 years old in November, and my only source of income is my Social Security checks. I have 250 acres of property that I am considering selling. If I sell the property, would I qualify for the 0% capital gains tax rate since my total annual income is below $40,000 and comes only from Social Security? The property was purchased in 2002 for $200,000, and I am considering selling it for around $500,000.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 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.

“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 1:8Those 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 DecisionsIn 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:I had a question about saving on capital gains from selling my home and two properties, totaling 27 acres. We're selling the 27-acre property for $400,000, and I'm considering possibly having $140,000 in capital gains from that sale. I also sold 5 acres for $92,000 and expect $10,000 in capital gains. I would like to know if I can do anything to reduce the capital gains I owe or how I can best handle this situation from a tax perspective.Do I need to pay taxes on the capital gains I received from property I inherited from my deceased brother? The property went through probate, and I became its successor. I had the property for over a year before selling it last year. I wanted to know if I would need to pay taxes on the capital gain since the property was inherited from a family member.I had a question about the capital gains tax on a house I sold after my mother passed away, and my brother lived in it under a life estate. I had my mother's house put in my name years ago, and after she passed away, my brother lived there for the last 12-15 years under a life estate. He recently passed away about a month ago, and the house came back to me, so I went ahead and sold it. I'm splitting the money evenly with my other brother. I wanted to know how the capital gains tax would work since there was never a formal will, and I'm sharing the proceeds with my brother.Do you have any thoughts on using the mobile banking apps that banks offer and cash transfer services like Venmo, CashApp, Zelle, and Paypal, and if you prefer any of those services over another when transferring money?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.

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:I'm 33, and I feel like I’m financially handling everything the way I’m supposed to–I saved my money, had a 401k a couple of years ago, my stepdad is an accountant who taught me how to budget, and I'm studying accounting now in finance classes. I quit my nighttime job, which paid well, to gain experience in a daytime accounting position. After budgeting my money with bills, I barely break even to cover my bills. What can I do? I've cut my spending, have no debt, no credit card, and my car is used and paid off. It's just bills. I use coupons and don't know what else I can do to survive or even have an emergency fund.I'm 69 years old and living alone. I have about $100,000 in a liquid savings account that I know I need to do something with. I'm collecting Social Security and do not want to stop working. What can I do with this money so the government won't take it from me if I ever get sick? I don't have Medicaid; I just have a Medicare Advantage plan.I took out a long-term health insurance policy several years ago with John Hancock, which has recently increased to $29,147 in paid-up policy value. When I purchased it, the premium was $300 per quarter, and I remember the agent saying it hadn't gone up in years. It has increased to $388 per quarter in the past few years. I just got a notice stating that as of July 1st, it is going up to $480 per quarter. And that's not even the worst of it–in 2025, it will go up to $593 per quarter, and in 2026 it will go up to $734 per quarter. They are legally allowed to do this, but they are putting people in a position where it doesn't make sense to keep paying such high premiums at my age. I either have to drop the policy or risk going broke paying the premiums. My son said I don't even have an option to sell this policy. I'd like your advice on what I should do in this situation.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 every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’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 LifeWhat 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:After my husband passed away, I recently received a $126,000 inheritance. I wasn't sure what to do with the money, as I had some liquid savings, but I wanted advice. I planned to put some in savings, but my local bank offered a 7% interest rate on a 7-month CD, which seemed like a good option. I asked the host if he recommended putting all of it in the CD or if you had other advice.What’s the best place to look into getting a high-yield savings account? I'd also like to know the interest on that savings account—if it's added monthly, and how that works. I just wanted to know where to look and how the interest works on a high-yield savings account.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 every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We 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 InvestmentsEven 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:Not updating estate plans regularly. As people accumulate wealth, their estate planning needs change, and failing to update their plans can lead to unintended consequences. This could include probate, unforeseen taxes, and legal challenges for heirs, among other problems. The greater the estate, the greater the need to keep estate planning up to date.Not creating a tax strategy. Everyone should be aware of the taxes they’ll have to pay and take advantage of tax-minimizing opportunities, but again, all the more so for wealthy individuals. They’re subject to various taxes, including income, estate, and gift taxes. Proper tax planning can help minimize their tax liabilities and maximize their after-tax income and opportunities to be generous during their lifetimes!Not diversifying their income. Failing to diversify income streams can leave high-net-worth individuals vulnerable to market fluctuations and other economic risks. However, anyone could benefit from thinking about ways to diversify income. Proper income diversification can help most people weather economic storms and ensure financial stability.Not guarding against lifestyle inflation. This refers to the tendency to increase spending as income increases. While the wealthy may have more disposable income, increasing spending at any income level can quickly erode wealth and jeopardize long-term financial goals. Not passing our values to the next generation. Often people worry about planning to pass on their valuables but not their values to their children. As Christians we know that our financial decisions are stewardship decisions and that the resources God has entrusted to us can be used as a tool to make an eternal impact. One of the ways we can intentionally prepare to pass on values, not just valuables, is by incorporating them into our planning, investing, and making decisions—and teaching our children and grandchildren to do so early.How Can People Learn More About OneAscent?Explore a new way of investing that aligns with your values at OneAscent.com. Click on 'Analyze My Investments' on the home page to tailor your portfolio to what truly matters to you.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Recently, my father-in-law passed away, and my wife and her brother are trying to get his house in their name, but there was no will. So I know it has to go to probate court. So we probably will have to get a lawyer from probate or just try to figure out the following steps, such as how likely it is to get his house in their name or how unlikely it is since there was no will.I want to give a gift to my church for a building program. I've sold about 12,600 hours of stock to help with this. If I give all the money from the stock sale to our church, will I also owe any taxes?I just received a new job. I'm 74, and I retired at 62. My husband and I are both debt-free. I have a part-time job as a greeter at the bank. I start at $11 an hour, 12 hours a week. But they offer a 401(k), so I wanted to ask if I’m too old to contribute to this or if I make enough money to justify putting money into it.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 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.

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 PoliciesInsurance 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 and Home InsuranceAuto 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 InsuranceRenters insurance is often overlooked but vital for protecting personal property and covering liability. It's affordable, typically under $200 annually.Health InsuranceHealth insurance is a must. Without insurance, the costs of medical care can be astronomical, making health coverage a crucial safeguard.Life InsuranceLife 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 InsuranceLong-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.Long-Term Disability InsuranceThis insurance protects your income if you're incapacitated. Premiums are typically a small percentage of your annual salary.Insurance to AvoidTitle 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:My wife and I sold our house in 2018 before the pandemic and we were living overseas for a while. Now that we're back, we're renting a home from some friends at a below-market price of $1100 a month. We have four kids, and it's a bit cramped in the three-bedroom, one-bath house. With the rising housing prices and interest rates, we're not sure if we should keep saving for a larger down payment on a $300,000 home or buy now with the 20% down payment we have. What do you think we should do - keep renting to save more or buy now, even with the high interest rates?I'm 56 years old and currently receiving Social Security disability benefits. Will the monthly amount I receive now change when I turn 67 and start receiving regular Social Security retirement benefits?I purchased a home in Dyer, Indiana, with a balance of $310,000, and I put a substantial amount down, so now I owe $173,338. My current monthly mortgage payment is $577, with $31.92 to the principal and $101.47 to the interest. I have substantial savings to pay off the remaining balance of $173,338. Given that I have the money and the interest rate on the loan is 7%, should I pay off the mortgage now or hold on to the cash for another year?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 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.

“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 31:28The True Value of MotherhoodAs 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:I have some plans from companies where I no longer work. One is with the same company; the other is one I had rolled into a Wells Fargo plan. I had heard on Christian radio about this company that helps you invest in places where it keeps your nest egg safe by using call options. And I'm curious about that option versus annuities versus some other option and what makes sense.My husband passed away over 10 years ago and I was left with maybe I have left from the inheritance of $150,000. Five years ago, I put $40,000 in a CD, and the CDs are almost up. And then I have $100,000 sitting in a savings account making zero interest because it's in a savings account. And what can you advise me on if I'm 65?I'm a 75-year-old widow, and I own my home, which is worth about $350,000 to $400,000. I heard you talk about high-yield accounts without locking your money into a CD, and I wanted to ask about that. I have about $175,000 in CDs, cash, and other assets.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 every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What 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 CrossBiblical generosity is not deserved. No human has ever deserved what we read about in Matthew 27. The Bible is evident on this matter. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”Biblical generosity should be a priority. God did not give us his leftovers. John 3:16 tells us, “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.” God gives us His one and only, His first and best. God leads us in the first fruits principle in Proverbs 3:9 and throughout Scripture.Biblical generosity should be sacrificial. A sacrifice occurs when something desirable and beneficial is given up. Jesus’ sacrifice was astonishing not only because he was unjustly executed but also because he took on the wrath of God for all sins—past, present, and future. It is an act truly unfathomable to the human mind.Biblical generosity should reflect God’s generosity. God is a generous God; throughout Scripture, we see God’s generosity on full display. God’s generosity is no more evident than when He sent His Son to earth as our sacrificial lamb.Biblical generosity impacts eternity, and the cross certainly did. When we give, individuals may hear about and put their faith in Christ because we chose to live with open hands. It’s an incredible honor.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:I had about $630,000 in my 401k, which I took out of the market just before the pandemic and put in a safe fund. I'm still deciding whether to return to the market or leave it in the safe fund, which yields about 1.3%. I plan to retire in about two years when I'll be 70 and start collecting my Social Security benefits. What do you recommend I do with the money in my 401k—get back into the market or leave it in the safe fund?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 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 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:I just read the book “Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement” by Harlan Accola and have decided to move forward to do that, too. I contacted my bank, and they don’t offer that service. Do you have any suggestions? In Virginia, specifically Richmond, are there banks that do this?My house loan is only in my husband's name, and I would like to know if I should put my name on it or leave it as is.I will be 65 in June and don't want to work until I fully retire. My job is gratifying but very stressful. I have no credit card bills or anything additional to the mortgage or car payment. My car payment is about $400 monthly, and I still owe about $18,000. Would it be in my best interest to take my additional monthly commission checks, typically put in savings, and put that toward paying the car off?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 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.