Faith & Finance

SPIRITUAL BOTTOM LINE OVER FINANCIAL CONCERNS:The true "bottom line" for believers in Jesus is our identity in Christ, providing us peace and assurance that our sins are paid for, as highlighted in the hymn "Jesus paid it all." This foundational truth encourages believers to rest in God's role as protector and provider, alleviating worries about financial matters. SCRIPTURAL ENCOURAGEMENTS AGAINST WORRY:Matthew 6: Jesus teaches not to worry about material needs, emphasizing God's provision for all creation, thus underscoring our value and God's care for us over our material concerns. Numbers 23:19: Highlights God's unchangeable and trustworthy nature, contrasting human unreliability with God's steadfast promise-keeping. Romans 8:31: Reminds us of God's omnipotence and support. Nothing can stand against us when God is on our side. EXAMPLES OF GOD'S PROTECTION AND POWER:2 Kings 6: The story of Elisha and his servant illustrates God's overwhelming power and protection, revealing that divine forces always outnumber and outmatch earthly challenges. CONCLUSION: TRUST IN GOD'S PROVISION:As followers of Christ, we're encouraged to shift focus from our financial insecurities to the reliability and strength of our God, ensuring peace and confidence. Our financial bottom line is secondary to our spiritual standing in Christ, offering an opportunity to deepen our trust in God's provision and care. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:My 16-year-old daughter spends all her earnings on gifts for friends and pets; how can I guide her towards better financial habits without taking control of her money?I inherited a condo with my siblings and need to buy them out. Is it wise to withdraw from my 401(k) to pay them or try to get a loan, given the condo's age and owner occupancy level?Considering the performance of precious metals versus stocks in recent years, would it be wise to allocate more of my investment portfolio to precious metals?I have a dormant 401(k) from a past employer and will soon receive an Army Reserve retirement check. Should I roll the 401(k) into an IRA or Roth IRA, and how should I manage it? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Open Hands FinanceMovement MortgageFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. 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.

WILL BASICS:A will is a simpler document that names an executor and beneficiaries.It must go through probate court and becomes public record, potentially delaying heirs' access to assets.Drafting a will through an estate attorney is recommended to minimize probate delays, typically costing around $500. TRUST BASICS:Trusts manage assets both before and after death, bypassing probate and keeping transactions private.Types include revocable (living) and irrevocable trusts, with the former being alterable during the grantor's lifetime.Trusts can designate a successor trustee to manage assets if the grantor becomes incapacitated, ensuring continuity and privacy. KEY REASONS FOR A WILL:Designating a guardian for minor children to avoid court-appointed guardianships.Disinheriting individuals or managing how minors receive assets.A will only takes effect after death, whereas a trust operates both during the grantor's life and after. ADVANTAGES OF A TRUST:Avoids probate, keeping estate management private and efficient.Allows for immediate successor trustee management if the grantor is incapacitated.Provides specific management of assets for minors or those deemed incapable of responsible financial management. CONCLUSION:Both a will and a trust may be necessary for comprehensive estate planning, especially for those with minor children or a preference for privacy and control over asset distribution. Consulting with a state attorney, preferably with a Certified Kingdom Advisor designation for alignment with Christian values, is advised for drafting these essential documents. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:My husband wants to sell our house in Florida for a profit, invest some in stocks, and live on the rest with our Social Security in North Carolina, but I'm concerned about moving and leaving my elderly parents.I have savings in a credit union and am considering moving to a regular bank to see my money grow; I'm looking for advice on making this transition effectively.Is it advisable to leave my wife's 401(k) with her former employer, where it's invested in a target retirement fund, or should we move it to an IRA with a similar investment strategy? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Find a Certified Kingdom AdvisorBankrateChristian Community Credit Union Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach.  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.

LLC, or Limited Liability Company. This business structure protects you from personal responsibility for the company’s debts or liabilities. An LLC gives you protection from debt collectors and lawsuits involving the company, just as a corporation would. But unlike a corporation, the LLC allows what’s called “flow through” for tax purposes. The LLC doesn’t pay corporate income taxes. The company’s profits and losses (or deductions) are passed on to the members of the LLC. With an LLC it’s easier to set up than a corporation . An LLC may have to be dissolved if a member dies or files for bankruptcy. The ownership or equity stake of an LLC cannot be publicly traded. But for many folks starting a business, forming an LLC is a great way to get started.C-corp … the C-corp is different from LLC as it does not allow a “flow through” treatment of profits and losses for tax purposes. A C-corp is subject to corporate income taxation. A C-corp requires you to hold annual meetings and have a board of directors that’s voted on by shareholders. A benefit to a C-corp is that it lives beyond the life of an individual owner, since they have many owners called shareholders. C-corp also allows for passive income for the shareholdersS-corp … This structure has the best features of both the LLC and the C-corp. The S-corp provides you with liability protection, but also allows you to pass profits and losses directly to shareholders, so you’re only taxed once.The S-corp avoids the double taxation inherent in the C-corp. Filing as an S corp can also reduce personal income taxes for the business owners, by characterizing money they receive from the business as salary or dividends to owners. Those are the advantages and disadvantages of the 3 most common company structures … just in case you’re thinking about starting your own business one day.   On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions:Jordan from Florida has  investments with Fidelity and Vangaurd, and he wants to know which one is better.Sherilynn from Idaho recently was widowed and has sold a house and bought another cheaper one and wants to know what is the best way to invest her funds.Ann in Akron is looking for a used car and wondering if this is a better time to buy.Dora has a small ira, and would like to give some to her church, and is curious about the qualified charitable distributions. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Also, visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach.  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.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE AND ESTATE PLANNINGProverbs 13:16 highlights the importance of acting with knowledge in all aspects of life, including the preparation for inevitable events like death. This preparation involves legal, financial, and personal readiness to ensure your wishes are honored and your loved ones are cared for. IMPORTANCE OF UPDATED WILLS AND DIRECTIVESHaving updated wills is critical to ensure your wishes are followed after your death, with legal powers of attorney and health care directives being equally important.An estate attorney is necessary to prepare these documents, representing an essential investment in your family's future well-being. PREPARING FOR YOUR MEMORIAL SERVICE OR FUNERALOrganizing instructions for your memorial service or funeral is a considerate way to help your family and friends start the grieving process, ensuring your wishes are respected. CREATING ESSENTIAL LISTSCompile a list of all your financial accounts, including bank accounts, investments, credit cards, mortgages, retirement accounts, outstanding loans, and pensions, and keep this list updated.Make a list of contacts who need to be informed about your death, including family, friends, financial institutions, government agencies, and any other organizations you're associated with. UPDATING BENEFICIARY DESIGNATIONSRegularly update the beneficiary designations on all your accounts to ensure they align with your current wishes. ENSURING ACCESS TO IMPORTANT DOCUMENTSEnsure someone you trust knows where to find all your important documents, ideally making this information accessible to your spouse if you're married. JOINT OWNERSHIP AND TRANSFER ON DEATH ARRANGEMENTSWork with an estate attorney to arrange for major assets to be owned jointly or transferred upon death to avoid probate and secure assets for the survivor's use. ADVICE FOR MARRIED COUPLESBoth spouses should understand the family finances to avoid leaving the surviving spouse in the dark in the event of the other's death.Each spouse should have a credit card in their own name to ensure access to credit after one spouse's death.Plan for the surviving spouse's income, considering potential lifestyle changes due to reduced income, and understand the implications for Social Security benefits upon a spouse's death. THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNICATIONOpen communication about financial matters with your spouse and, if appropriate, with your children or other family members is crucial to ensure everyone knows what to expect. SPIRITUAL PERSPECTIVEYou and I can’t know when the Lord will call us home, but we do know where home is. Philippians 3:20 reminds us that “our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”  Our job is to be ready. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm 76, on Supplemental Security Income, and interested in finding affordable life insurance options to cover funeral expenses and potentially support my daughter.I've been managing our family budget with spreadsheets since the 1980s, but I'm concerned my wife won't be able to manage it if I pass away. Can you recommend a simpler system?I have three retirement accounts totaling $100,000 and am considering rolling them into a Roth IRA for better investment options, despite potential tax implications.My tax preparer is requesting a photocopy of my Social Security card. Is it safe to provide it to him?After hearing advice on your show, I took responsibility for a debt I owed, despite being advised I could walk away due to its impact on my public aid. I want to share how your guidance inspired me to fulfill my obligations. RESOURCES MENTIONED:NerdWallet:NerdWalletUS News and World Report: Best Burial Insurance of 2024FaithFi appSound Mind Investing or FaithFi.com for articles on Roth vs. traditional IRA. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. 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 DOES IT MEAN TO LIVE A CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE WITH REGARDS TO MONEY?Living a Christian lifestyle with money involves having the right attitude towards it, regardless of the amount one possesses. This perspective transcends the amount of wealth and focuses on the heart and obedience to God's principles on financial management.It's about the attitude and obedience rather than the amount of wealth.Lifestyle controversies often stem from misunderstandings of biblical teachings on wealth.True obedience involves aligning one's financial decisions and lifestyle with biblical convictions. HOW CAN WE INTERPRET THE BIBLICAL RANGE OF WEALTH AND POVERTY?The Bible presents a wide spectrum of financial statuses among believers, from extreme wealth to significant poverty. Key lessons from these narratives emphasize the believers' heart posture and faithfulness in stewardship, rather than the material wealth itself.Scripture showcases both wealthy individuals and those living in poverty, focusing on their faithfulness and heart posture towards God.The widow's mite is highlighted not for her poverty but for her willingness to give all she had, demonstrating an attitude of complete trust and surrender to God.Wealth or poverty is not inherently righteous or sinful; the focus is on one's attitude and actions with what they are given. IS THE PROSPERITY GOSPEL A BIBLICAL MODEL FOR A CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE?The prosperity gospel, which often misinterprets scripture to equate faithfulness with material wealth, is not supported by biblical teachings. The true biblical model emphasizes forgiveness, contentment, and stewardship over material gain.The prosperity gospel misuses scriptures, such as Luke 6:38, which in context, speaks about forgiveness rather than financial blessings.True biblical prosperity is found in spiritual richness and obedience to God's commands, including living a life marked by forgiveness and generosity. WHAT SCRIPTURES OFFER GUIDANCE ON THE APPROPRIATE FINANCIAL LIFESTYLE FOR BELIEVERS?First and Second Timothy provide clear guidance on a Christian's approach to finances, emphasizing the importance of provision for one's family, enjoyment of God's blessings with a giving heart, and contentment regardless of one's financial state.Believers are called to provide for their families, enjoy God's blessings, and live in contentment.Paul's teachings in Philippians show that contentment in Christ transcends financial status, focusing on trust and strength found in God rather than material wealth.A Christian's financial lifestyle is marked by obedience, stewardship, and a heart aligned with God's purposes, rather than the pursuit of wealth for its own sake. WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A CHRISTIAN FINANCIAL LIFESTYLE?A Christian financial lifestyle is characterized by provision for one's family, enjoyment of God's gifts within the context of giving, and contentment with what one has, as instructed in First and Second Timothy and Hebrews.Provision, enjoyment, and contentment are key elements of a Christian financial lifestyle.These principles guide believers to focus on what truly matters: faithfulness in stewardship, generosity, and a heart content with God's provision.The biblical model does not prescribe a specific spending or saving percentage but encourages a prayerful and obedient approach to financial management, seeking God's wisdom and guidance in all things. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I discovered an unknown American Express account on my credit report from 2017 that I did not open. What steps should I take to address this issue?I'm nearing retirement and currently contribute 5% to my 401k. Should I increase my contribution to 25-30% to maximize it before I retire?I recently inherited a non-qualified annuity and was given only two options for distribution. Is it possible to leave the annuity in for the life term, and how can I find out more about this?My father gave us a timeshare many years ago, which we no longer want. After failing to exit the timeshare through paid services, we were advised legally to just stop paying the maintenance fee. Is there another solution? RESOURCES MENTIONED:FTC article: What To Know About Credit Freezes and Fraud AlertsRemember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. 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.

Matt Syverson is a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Kingdom Advisor in Overland Park, Kansas. He’s also a specialist in helping families understand and set up ABLE accounts.  WHAT ARE ABLE ACCOUNTS AND HOW DO THEY COMPARE TO 529 EDUCATION SAVINGS ACCOUNTS?ABLE accounts, akin to 529 education savings accounts in terms of contributions and tax treatments, are designed to assist individuals with disabilities by allowing for the accumulation of resources without affecting their eligibility for government assistance.ABLE accounts, initially referred to as 529A plans, are intended for individuals with disabilities, allowing them to save beyond the typical asset limits set by government assistance programs.These accounts enable the saving of funds for a broad range of needs beyond just educational expenses, providing a more flexible financial support system for people with disabilities. WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR AN ABLE ACCOUNT, AND WHAT ARE THE CONTRIBUTION LIMITS?ABLE accounts are specifically for individuals receiving or eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) due to a disability onset before age 26, with annual contribution limits matching the federal gift tax exclusion amount.Eligibility for ABLE accounts extends to individuals with significant disabilities with an onset before age 26, who are recipients of or qualify for SSI, allowing for a greater financial cushion without risking their SSI benefits.The annual contribution limit to an ABLE account is set at $18,000, aligning with the annual gift tax exclusion, enabling families and the individual to contribute without tax penalties and without affecting the individual’s SSI asset limits. HOW DO ABLE ACCOUNTS AFFECT SSI BENEFITS, AND WHAT ARE QUALIFIED DISABILITY EXPENSES?ABLE accounts do not count towards the SSI $2,000 asset limit, and funds can be used for a wide array of disability-related expenses without impacting SSI benefits, offering significant flexibility and financial relief.Contributions to ABLE accounts and the savings therein do not affect an individual’s eligibility for SSI as long as the account balance stays below $100,000, thus providing a secure means to save and support disability-related needs without jeopardizing SSI benefits.Qualified disability expenses are broadly defined, covering any costs related to living with a disability, including but not limited to housing, education, healthcare, and personal support services, thereby offering a versatile tool for financial planning and care. HOW ARE ABLE ACCOUNTS MANAGED AND WHAT ARE THE INVESTMENT OPTIONS?ABLE accounts are state-sponsored, similar to 529 plans, with investment options ranging from aggressive to conservative portfolios, as well as offering FDIC-insured options with debit card access for day-to-day expenses.Each state sponsors its own ABLE program, with only a few exceptions; individuals can choose to open an account in any participating state, often guided by the specific features and benefits offered by each state’s plan.Investment options within ABLE accounts vary, allowing for tailored investment strategies according to the beneficiary’s needs and risk tolerance, including the possibility of a portion being allocated to a checking-like account with FDIC insurance for immediate needs.ABLE National Resource Center:able nrc.org ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I have a 401k from a previous employer and a portable pension; I'm wondering if I can roll these over into an existing IRA Roth, or if I need to consolidate them into a new IRA.My daughter is looking to buy a house or land and pay cash, but someone suggested delayed financing to get her cash back and then get a mortgage; I'm trying to understand what that is.We have a family business and are currently with a credit card processing company that does not share our Christian values. We are looking for recommendations on credit card processing companies that might be more aligned with our values. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Inspire InsightChristian Community Credit Union Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach.  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.

1 Corinthians 10:31: “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Chad Horning is the president of Praxis Mutual Funds, an underwriter of this program and one of the oldest faith-based mutual funds in the country.  WHAT DOES "FAITH BASED INVESTING" MEAN TO PRAXIS?At Praxis, Faith Based Investing is all about letting your faith guide your investment decisions. It's not just about smart money moves; it's about aligning those moves with your Christian principles. This approach is key for those looking to ensure their investments reflect their values.The idea here is to let your faith lead the way in how you invest.Praxis champions the integration of faith and finances, aiming for your investments to mirror your values.Essentially, the goal is to align your investments with your Christian values seamlessly. HOW HAS FAITH BASED INVESTING EVOLVED OVER 30 YEARS?Initially, it focused on avoiding investments in industries that conflicted with Christian ethics. Now, it's grown to include proactive impact through investments, like engaging in shareholder advocacy and investing in community projects. This evolution marks a shift from merely avoiding harm to actively doing good.It started with steering clear of certain sectors.Today, it’s about positive actions, making a real impact through where you invest.Activities like international microfinance and expanding affordable housing exemplify this proactive stance. WHAT'S THIS "DISTANCE FROM THE ACTUAL BUSINESS" CONCEPT?This refers to the modern form of investing through stocks and mutual funds, where direct involvement in business operations isn't the norm. Despite this, the foundational Christian command to love one's neighbor as oneself still applies, guiding investors to choose businesses that uphold these values, even from afar.Modern investing often means less direct involvement with businesses.The principle of loving your neighbor still informs investment choices.This wisdom encourages investment in businesses that respect and uphold neighborly love. HOW HAVE FAITH BASED INVESTORS PERFORMED OVER THE YEARS?You might wonder if prioritizing values over returns means sacrificing financial performance. Fortunately, the landscape has evolved significantly, offering a broad spectrum of faith-oriented investment options that don't compromise on returns. This growth means investors can remain true to their values without sacrificing financial success.Prioritizing values doesn't mean sacrificing returns.The variety of faith-oriented investment options has expanded significantly.It’s entirely possible to support your family’s financial goals while making a positive impact. WHAT'S ON THE HORIZON FOR FAITH BASED INVESTORS?Looking forward, the industry is set to continue its evolution, offering an even wider range of products that cater to diverse Christian values and expressions. This expansion means investors can expect more opportunities to invest in ways that truly reflect their faith, from supporting ethical businesses to focusing on social justice.Expect more diverse faith-based investment products in the future.A convergence of interests between faith-based and traditional investors is likely, focusing on ethical business practices.The future promises a broad spectrum of options catering to various expressions of Christian faith. ANY WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THOSE CONSIDERING FAITH BASED INVESTING?Faith Based Investing is a viable and impactful approach that you can adopt. When meeting with your financial advisor, consider discussing how to integrate your faith with your investment portfolio. The increasing number of advisors familiar with this approach is a positive trend, offering more support for those looking to invest according to their values.Faith Based Investing is not only possible but impactful.Discuss integrating faith into your investment strategy with your financial advisor.The growing familiarity of advisors with Faith Based Investing means more support for aligning your investments with your values. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm retiring soon and noticed my Social Security projection doesn't include earnings for 2023; will filing for Social Security before filing my 2023 taxes affect my monthly check amount?After inheriting some money, I'm looking for advice on how to invest it or put it in a safe spot to help it grow, considering we're already doing well with our current finances and have an emergency fund. Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. 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.

FINDING PEACE IN UNCERTAIN TIMESNavigating Financial Uncertainty: In today's world, uncertainty abounds, especially in financial matters like home-buying, career changes, and retirement. This uncertainty often leads to worry and sleepless nights.Guidance from Scripture: Drawing from Psalm 119:105, we find reassurance that God's Word illuminates our path, preventing us from stumbling in the darkness of uncertainty.Casting Anxiety on God: First Peter 5:6-7 reminds us that God cares for us deeply, encouraging us to cast all our anxieties on Him through humble submission. FOUR STEPS TO CONQUERING ANXIETYStep One: Rejoice in the Lord: Philippians 4:4 instructs us to rejoice always, recognizing that everything God allows into our lives is ultimately for our benefit.Step Two: Prayer and Thanksgiving: Philippians 4:6 urges us to present our worries to God in prayer, with thanksgiving, trusting in His provision and care.Step Three: Think Truth: Philippians 4:8 advises us to focus our minds on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy, finding solace in the truth of God's Word.Step Four: Do What's Right: Philippians 4:9 encourages us to follow the example of Christ in our actions, trusting that obedience to God's commands brings peace. FAITHFULNESS AMIDST CHALLENGESVictory in Christ's Resurrection: 1 Corinthians 15 reminds us of the victory we have through Christ's resurrection, urging us to stand firm and remain steadfast in our commitment to godly principles.Assurance of God's Provision: Romans 8:28 and Philippians 4:19 reassure us that God works all things for our good and will meet all our needs according to His riches in Christ Jesus.Purpose in Faithfulness: Our faithfulness in following godly financial values serves as a witness for Jesus, an investment in God's kingdom, and a means of drawing closer to the Lord. FINAL ENCOURAGEMENTDespite challenges, remaining faithful to godly financial principles brings peace on earth and treasures in heaven, fulfilling God's purposes for our lives. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ALSO ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:Can National Debt Relief justify its fees considering the caller's situation?How should Conrad begin retirement planning, especially with access to a 401(k) plan?What steps are needed to transfer ownership of a home and continue mortgage payments after a parent's passing?Are gold coins a wise investment, given the risks and benefits? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Christian Credit CounselorsWise Women Managing Money Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach.  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.

Matthew 25:23, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.”HONORING GOD THROUGH FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIPInspiring Words: We all aspire to hear the commendation found in Matthew 25:23 and to be found faithful as stewards in all aspects of life, including finances.Biblical Foundation: Our financial decisions are rooted in Scripture, with Deuteronomy 8:1 reminding us that all wealth comes from God, and Psalm 50:10-11 affirming His ownership over everything, including us.Glorifying God: The Bible teaches us to honor God in all that we do, including our financial choices. Revelation 4:11, 1 Corinthians 10:31, and Colossians 3:17 urge us to glorify God in every aspect of life, including our finances. FAITH-BASED APPROACH TO FINANCEAligning Values: We are encouraged to make financial decisions that align with our Christian values, including supporting companies with godly practices and investing in opportunities that honor God's principles.Faith-Based Institutions: In the world of finance, there are institutions that prioritize faith-based principles. Christian Community Credit Union is one such example, offering banking solutions that align with our beliefs.Survey Insights: Recent surveys have shown a strong desire among Christians for banking practices that reflect their values, with many considering switching to faith-based institutions like Christian Community Credit Union. CALL TO ACTION AND ASSURANCETaking Action: As faithful stewards, we are prompted to consider our financial decisions carefully and explore options that honor God. Joining a faith-based institution like Christian Community Credit Union can be a practical step in this direction.Security and Peace of Mind: Accounts with Christian Community Credit Union are insured up to $250,000 by ASI, providing not only alignment with Christian values but also peace of mind regarding the safety of our finances. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ALSO ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:Considering cashing out an annuity to supplement Social Security income; advisor suggests another annuity with guaranteed 6% interest. Is this a good plan?Inheriting property, considering adding son to deed to avoid probate; host advises against, suggests Ladybird deed for tax benefits.Inherited $72,000; seeking advice on allocation for paying off mortgage, car replacement, and daughter's college expenses.Jointly owned timeshare; sister wants to buy caller's half. Caller seeks advice on potential tax implications. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Find a Certified Kingdom AdvisorChristian Credit Counselors Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach.  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.

BOOMER INFLUENCE ON HOUSING MARKET:The current landscape of the housing market is significantly influenced by baby boomers, particularly in terms of home ownership patterns and inventory distribution.A substantial portion of large homes, defined as those with three bedrooms or more, is owned by baby boomers, who are aged between 58 to 76 years old.In contrast, younger generations, including millennials (ages 26 to 41) and Gen Zers (ages 19 to 25), possess a smaller share of large homes, leading to a disparity in housing options.Boomers' ownership status, with many owning homes outright and having little financial incentive to sell, contributes to the limited availability of homes for sale, particularly larger ones suitable for growing families.The disparity in housing ownership between generations underscores the challenges faced by younger individuals and families in accessing affordable and adequately sized housing. FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO HOUSING CHALLENGES:Various factors exacerbate the housing challenges experienced by younger generations, including supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a decrease in new construction and available inventory.Additionally, rising building costs and inflationary pressures have contributed to higher home values, making homeownership less attainable for first-time buyers, especially those without existing equity in their homes.Record-low mortgage rates in recent years have further intensified demand for homes, driving up prices and creating a competitive market environment for prospective buyers.Despite projections for improvements in the housing market in 2024, with expectations of increased inventory and potentially lower mortgage rates, significant disparities persist between the housing opportunities available to different generations. STRATEGIES FOR PROSPECTIVE HOMEBUYERS:Prospective homebuyers can take proactive steps to prepare for homeownership amid challenging market conditions, including prioritizing debt reduction to improve debt-to-income ratios and credit scores.Saving for a substantial down payment, ideally 20% of the home's purchase price, can help avoid additional costs associated with private mortgage insurance (PMI) and lower monthly mortgage payments.Monitoring credit reports for errors and disputing inaccuracies can contribute to improving credit scores, enhancing eligibility for favorable mortgage rates and terms.When ready to purchase a home, prospective buyers are advised to obtain pre-approval for a mortgage and shop around for the best rates and terms, potentially saving significant sums over the life of the loan. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:Should I repair my 13-year-old car's AC for $1,700-$1,900, or should I invest in a newer car, considering my vehicle's worth and potential lifespan?Do my children inherit money tax-free from my Roth IRA upon my passing?Should I roll over my maturing CD to a new institution offering a slightly higher interest rate, or stick with my credit union for convenience?How can I choose a high-yield savings account? Is it safe to trust banks with higher rates than Capital One? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Bankrate.comNerdWallet Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach. 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.