Faith & Finance

LENDING MONEY TO CHILDREN FOR A HOUSE PURCHASE:Rob discusses the reasons parents might consider lending money to their children for a house purchase, such as reducing the interest the child must pay and helping if the child does not qualify for a mortgage due to debt-to-income ratio issues or insufficient credit history. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the implications of lending versus gifting money, the potential risks involved, and ensuring any loan is legally documented.Parents may lend to their children to save them from high interest rates or if they're unable to secure a loan due to financial reasons.Lending money can potentially harm the recipient by discouraging their efforts to earn money and achieve financial independence, and it can risk the lender's financial security and relationship with the child if the loan is not repaid.The Bible encourages providing for relatives, as seen in 1 Timothy 5:8, which states, "If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever," but this provision must be balanced with wisdom to ensure it does not encourage dependency.Gifting rather than lending may avoid relationship strain, but it comes with IRS implications if the gifted amount exceeds annual exclusions, impacting the lifetime gift tax exclusion.Private loans to children for home purchases won't help build their credit history, potentially affecting future borrowing capabilities, but can save significant amounts in mortgage interest.If parents decide to lend, the loan should be formalized with a legally binding contract detailing the loan's terms, ensuring compliance with IRS requirements and protecting both parties' interests. Rob underscores that while personal loans for home purchases can offer significant benefits, especially in saving on interest payments, they also carry risks that must be carefully weighed. Thorough preparation and legal documentation can help head off or mitigate potential issues. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:At 63 and my husband nearly 80, we're considering buying another rental property in these uncertain times; is this a wise decision?Having sold a property two years ago, we paid capital gains tax on it; was that necessary for everyone across the board?I've never been good with money, but God has changed my life in recent years. At 65, I've saved in my 401(k) but have debts and am seeking advice on financial planning for the future.Is it advisable to reduce my 401(k) contribution to the company match level and use the extra income to pay off my car loan faster? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Christian Credit CounselorsFind 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.

“I tell you, use worldly wealth to make friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, they will welcome you into eternal dwellings.” Luke 16:9  Rachel McDonough is a Certified Financial Planner, a CertifiedKingdom Advisor and a regular FaithFi contributor. WHAT IS THE BEST INVESTMENT YOU EVER MADE, ACCORDING TO RACHEL MCDONOUGH?Rachel recounts a story of investing not in stocks or bonds but in a person's life with a simple act of kindness. She met a woman who identified herself as a witch and was initially very hostile. With just $35, Rachel and her friends paid for the woman's phone bill, leading to a surprising transformation. The woman opened up about her painful past and received the message of God's love through this act of generosity.Investing in kindness can lead to spiritual breakthroughs, even with a small amount like $35.A simple act of generosity can soften a hardened heart, demonstrating God's love in a tangible way.Rachel's story emphasizes the power of meeting physical needs as an entry point to share the gospel. HOW CAN PLANNED SPONTANEITY PLAY A ROLE IN GENEROSITY ACCORDING TO RACHEL?Rachel advocates for planned spontaneity in generosity, suggesting that people include a budget line item for spontaneous acts of kindness. This approach combines the intentionality of budgeting with the flexibility to respond to the Holy Spirit's leading. Rachel shares examples of how this concept has been put into practice, including a client who felt nudged to give $500 to a foster family and another couple who invested in their backyard as a ministry tool to reach out to the next generation.Setting aside money for spontaneous generosity removes hesitation and promotes readiness to act on God's prompting.Generosity planned in this way can lead to meaningful encounters and support for those in need, reflecting God's love through our actions.Such acts of kindness not only meet immediate needs but also open doors for sharing the gospel and building relationships based on faith. WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF INVESTING IN EVANGELISM THROUGH GENEROSITY?Rachel provides several inspiring examples of how generosity can facilitate evangelism. One story involves a client who noticed a foster family in need and responded to the Holy Spirit's nudge by giving them $500, which was a significant help during a financial crisis. Another example is a couple who plans to invest in a welcoming space for their children's friends, aiming to share the love of God with the next generation.Generosity can be a direct response to God's nudge, leading to impactful support for families and people in challenging circumstances.Large investments, like updating a backyard for ministry purposes, showcase a commitment to using personal resources for kingdom impact.Each act of kindness, whether spontaneous or planned, serves as a testimony of God's love and opens opportunities for gospel conversations. FINAL THOUGHTS IN MAKING ETERNAL INVESTMENTS THROUGH GENEROSITY:“Worldly wealth” can be invested to win souls, which are the “true riches” referred to in Luke 16:11.  Prayerfully consider adding a line item to their budget — to be used for investing in the expansion of God’s family. The Great Commission is the one calling we have all received from God. Rachel says, while it doesn’t have to be spontaneous, she encourages some semi-planned spontaneity. This does three things.1. It will remove the hesitation you may feel as you consider what you can afford to give. That way, when a spontaneous opportunity is spotted, you’re ready.2. It will prevent miscommunication with your spouse if you agree beforehand that this is a priority for your family and you agree on an amount.3. It will make investing in souls an intentional and ongoing part of your lifestyle. Friends, I know of no better way to stay in close life-union with God than to take steps to grow his family. God cares about people and he shows up when we step out in faith to fulfill the Great Commission. His definition of “true riches” is souls! Jesus paid with his life for this treasure. As his stewards, managing his resources on his behalf, when we use money to pursue souls we find ourselves perfectly positioned for an adventure with God that can fulfill our deepest longings and fill up our neighborhood in heaven with friends for eternity. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I have a family member who didn't file taxes in 2017 and recently received a letter from the IRS. They're willing to pay but want to ensure it's done correctly and verify payment.After losing my job of 21 years and now living on Social Security, I'm trying to figure out how to manage financially without my previous income and considering how to access equity from my house to cover expenses. RESOURCES MENTIONED:IRS payments:irs.gov/paymentsChristian Credit CounselorsFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor  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.

THE DANGERS OF LOVING MONEY AND THE CHRISTIAN RESPONSESome people view money as the source of life's greatest pleasures, equating it with security, success, freedom, and power. However, the Biblical perspective emphasizes trust in Jesus rather than in fleeting worldly possessions. THE PROBLEMS WITH LOVING MONEY:1 Timothy 6:10 warns about the love of money being the root of all kinds of evils, emphasizing the destruction and ruin it can bring.Loving money leads to a life-destroying path marked by temptation and harmful desires.It can cause us to stray from our faith, experiencing deep sorrow as a result.Money can become an idol, taking God's place as the highest priority in our lives. BIBLICAL WARNINGS AGAINST SERVING MONEY:Jesus taught in Matthew 6:24 that it's impossible to serve both God and money, highlighting the conflict between material wealth and spiritual devotion.Loving money is incompatible with serving God fully.Money, while neutral itself, can lead to sins like greed, fear, envy, and dishonesty when idolized. THE INSUFFICIENCY OF MONEY:Ecclesiastes 5:10 illustrates that money can never truly satisfy the human heart's desires, a void that only Jesus can fill. The pursuit of wealth for its own sake is ultimately unfulfilling. CHRISTIAN STRATEGY AGAINST THE TEMPTATION OF MONEY:1 Timothy 6:11-12 offers a way out for believers, urging them to flee from the love of money and pursue virtues like righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.Followers of Christ are encouraged to fight the good fight of faith and cling to the hope of eternal life. CONCLUSION:While the world offers many temptations, including the allure of wealth, believers are called to prioritize their spiritual well-being over material gains, staying true to their commitment to God and the eternal life promised through faith in Jesus Christ.If we can help you restore your focus on Jesus in your finances, I hope you’ll contact us at faithfi.com. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm interested in donor-advised funds for tax planning but concerned about supporting entities that don't align with my values. Can you provide guidance on choosing one, particularly your thoughts on the National Christian Foundation (NCF)?As I approach retirement, when is my Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) due and how do I find out the amount? Also, can I direct my RMD to charitable giving without facing taxes or penalties?We're considering moving into a retirement community in a few years. How should we manage our assets, including our home equity and IRA, to cover the entrance fee and monthly rent without incurring unnecessary taxes or penalties?A member of my church needs a car for transportation. I've saved $1,000 to help purchase one for her. Do you know any organizations where I can find a reliable car at a low price? RESOURCES MENTIONED:National Christian Foundation (NCF): For setting up a donor-advised fund aligned with Christian values.Find 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.

Art Rainer is author of the brand new book, “Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose.” He’s also a frequent contributor here at FaithFi. EVERY SPENDING DECISION IS A SPIRITUAL DECISIONArt Rainer emphasizes Jesus' words that where one's treasure is, their heart will also be.The Bible, with over 2000 verses on money, shows its spiritual significance.Managing money well reflects trust in God's promises and provision.Trusting God with finances is as crucial as trusting Him with one's soul. GOD'S PROMISES:God promises to provide and bless those who give, demonstrating His commitment to bless generosity.Malachi 3:10 highlights God's promise to bless those who bring their tithes, promising abundant blessings as a sign of His faithfulness.He doesn't tell us to give only to leave us hanging. No, he ties a promise to our generosity. He promises to pour out an abundance of blessings.He invites believers to test Him in this, promising blessings that may be financial, material, or spiritual.Generosity becomes part of something greater than our temporary life on Earth. GOD PROMISES HE WILL MULTIPLY: CAN YOU EXPLAIN THIS?The multiplication of the boy's five loaves and two fish in John 6 demonstrates God's ability to multiply what we give, fulfilling His purposes.Like the boy's small offering, our resources can be multiplied by God.This multiplication requires trust in God's ability to use our generosity effectively. GOD PROMISES HE WILL ENRICH: WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?Second Corinthians 9:11 explains God's intention to enrich those who give, enabling them to be generous and bless others.God seeks a good return on investment (ROI) from our giving. In.2nd Corinthians 9:11, Paul writes to those who trust God with their money, yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous.He gives so that we can give. He enriches us so we can be conduits of generosity, blessing others. CONCLUSION: GENEROSITY AS AN ACT OF TRUSTGenerosity is not just about giving but trusting God with our finances, demonstrating faith in His provision, multiplication, and enrichment.Generosity shifts our reliance from money to God.By trusting God with our soul, we should also trust Him with our finances, embracing our role as stewards of His resources. Art Rainer's insights remind us that financial stewardship and generosity are integral to our spiritual lives and our maturity in Christ, underlining the importance of trusting God with every aspect of our finances. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I received a settlement offer from my credit card company that's less than my outstanding balance; what should I be aware of if I accept this offer?Fidelity recommended I move my $50,000 savings into a high-yield or money market account; is this the same, and what are the differences?I have a loan from my 401(k) that's now paid off, including interest; does this interest benefit me or go somewhere else?We need a new roof costing $25,000 but don't have the full amount saved; should we take out a loan, and if so, what kind?My car lease is ending next month, and I can buy the car for $18,000; is purchasing it a good investment considering we're planning for a family and I want to avoid further payments? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Find a Certified Kingdom AdvisorFor comparing car values: Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book 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.

Ron Blue is the co-founder of Kingdom Advisors, author of a shelf-full of books on biblical finance, including Master Your Money. HELPING A DAUGHTER WHO'S GOING THROUGH A DIVORCE: WHAT'S THE BEST APPROACH?Support must be dynamic, adapting as circumstances change.Emotional, spiritual, and financial challenges intertwine, requiring sensitive navigation.Equitable treatment among siblings means addressing each child's unique needs, especially in crisis. HOW DID YOU AND JUDY DECIDE ON THE EXTENT AND MANNER OF HELP?The decision on how much to help was made progressively, acknowledging the fluid situation post-divorce.The process involves constant reassessment based on changing needs and situations.Supporting a child who feels like they've failed requires careful emotional and financial consideration.The principle of loving your children equally but treating them uniquely guided their approach, especially in allocating resources differently from other siblings. WHAT DID THE JOURNEY TO REESTABLISHING SELF-SUFFICIENCY FOR YOUR DAUGHTER LOOK LIKE?The path to self-sufficiency was gradual, spanning several years until she remarried and established her career.Support extended beyond financial help to include significant time spent babysitting and being involved in her and her son's life.The closeness to their grandson is a testament to the time and care invested during this period. HOW SIGNIFICANT WAS PRAYER IN THIS PROCESS?The power of prayer and the support of friends played a critical role in navigating the challenges of divorce and single parenthood.Ron Blue emphasizes the importance of adaptability, empathy, and a tailored approach when supporting a family member through divorce, underpinned by a strong foundation of prayer and support. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I found out my 403(b) contributions stopped without my knowledge, and now I have $49,000 sitting unmanaged; what should I do with this account moving forward?My daughter, who has moved away from her faith, wants to buy land in a foreign country and is asking for a significant financial contribution from us; how should we handle this as believing parents?I'm considering investing in a fixed index annuity offering a 40% initial bonus and subsequent returns based on interest rates; is this a good investment for me?I acquired two properties through a 1031 exchange and want them to transfer to my son upon my death without tax implications; how can I ensure this happens smoothly? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Find 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.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.

IMPACT OF COVID ON HOUSING MARKET AND RENT VS. BUY DEBATEThere’s no question that we’re still feeling the impact of the COVID pandemic. The COVID pandemic significantly disrupted the housing market, increasing home prices and rental rates, making it challenging for first-time home buyers.Also during that time, rental rates also skyrocketed. In the age-old debate, rent vs. buy, things have shifted. CURRENT HOUSING MARKET CONDITIONS:Skyhigh mortgage payments: On average, new mortgage payments are now 52% higher than apartment rents, the largest gap in 27 years, according to CBRE.Low first-time home buyer activity: Only 26% of buyers were first-timers in 2022, the lowest percentage on record by the National Association of Realtors.Steady home values despite high mortgage rates: Despite expectations, high mortgage rates haven't lowered home values due to low housing inventory. RENTAL MARKET AS THE NEW "VALUE OPTION":Changing perspective on renting vs. buying: Renting is now seen as more financially sensible for many, as it doesn't involve skyhigh mortgage payments and allows for flexibility in this uncertain market. FUTURE MARKET CORRECTIONS EXPECTED:Market self-correction: The free market is expected to adjust—more houses built if needed, material costs to decrease with increased production, and interest rates to align with economic conditions, potentially making housing more affordable. STEPS TOWARDS HOMEOWNERSHIP WHILE RENTING:1. Reduce debt: Pay off credit cards and make extra payments on car loans to improve the debt-to-income ratio.2. Improve credit score: Ensure timely payments, check and dispute any errors on credit reports to secure lower interest rates.3. Increase savings: Save diligently for a down payment, aiming for 20% to avoid private mortgage insurance, ultimately reducing monthly payments. SCRIPTURAL ENCOURAGEMENT:Follow God’s financial principles and see what He will do. Romans 12:12 reads, “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I have about $4,000 in credit card bills due to lawyer bills and am considering taking money out of my IRA to pay it off; is this a good idea?My husband and I are considering selling our rental properties due to active management demands, but are concerned about capital gains; are there any other options?Our church has $500,000 we'd like to invest to get a better yield than our current savings account, considering we'll need some of the money in about 14 months; what do you recommend?I retired in January and have two 401(k)s not performing well; I'm considering moving some of the money into more guaranteed interest options and need advice on what percentage to allocate.I have a home with a $72,000 mortgage and $90,000 in savings; should I pay off my house with the savings? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Christian Credit CounselorsChristian Community Credit UnionFind 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.

Neile Simon is a Certified Credit Counselor with Christian Credit Counselors, and underwriter of this program.  WHAT ARE SOME TRIED AND TRUE WAYS TO AVOID DEBT AND PROMOTE FINANCIAL WELLNESS?Neile Simon from Christian Credit Counselors shares key strategies to manage finances effectively, emphasizing the importance of budgeting, reducing debt, and saving for emergencies.Creating or updating a budget is crucial: Most Americans need to revisit their budgets, especially to adjust for inflation. Your budget should track major expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and more. It's also wise to review and possibly reduce subscriptions to entertainment services by examining bank and credit card statements for auto payments.Paying down credit card debt is vital: Credit card debt is expensive, with average interest rates over 20%. Making only minimum payments on a balance can extend repayment over years, resulting in high interest costs. Neely recommends exploring debt consolidation through a debt management program to lower interest rates and achieve faster debt elimination.Starting an emergency fund is essential: An emergency fund provides a financial buffer for unexpected expenses and can help avoid further debt. The recommendation is to save three to six months' worth of expenses, but starting with a smaller goal, like $500, is also beneficial. Automating savings can help build this fund over time. HOW CAN CHRISTIAN CREDIT COUNSELORS HELP PEOPLE FEELING OVERWHELMED BY DEBT?Christian Credit Counselors offer a debt management program designed to significantly reduce the time and cost of debt repayment, supporting clients to honor their debts fully.Christian Credit Counselors provide an action plan: They help individuals develop a comprehensive strategy to get out of debt 80% faster while fully honoring their debts. This includes lowering interest rates and establishing a manageable monthly payment plan.Free consultation for personalized advice: Interested individuals can reach out to Christian Credit Counselors for a free consultation to discuss their specific situation and get started on the path to financial wellness. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm trying to decide whether to use investment money or home equity to pay off credit card bills and car payments.I'm curious about the legitimacy and benefits of using online auto refinance companies for better rates compared to traditional banks or credit unions.I want my required IRA withdrawal to go directly to charity before taxes to avoid raising my tax bracket; is this possible?My husband and I, being mortgage-free and considering building a small Airbnb on our property for extra income, are wondering how to choose the best company for a home equity line of credit. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Christian Credit CounselorsMovement Mortgage 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.

Aaron Caid joins us again today. Aaron’s the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of this program. INTEGRATING STEWARDSHIP INTO DAILY LIVING: HOW CAN CHRISTIANS PRACTICALLY APPLY THE CONCEPT OF STEWARDSHIP IN THEIR DAILY LIVESRecent research showed that while Christians understand the concept of stewardship, they often struggle with practical application in daily life.Over 80% of surveyed Christians believe applying stewardship principles positively impacts their lives.Many expressed a desire to learn basic stewardship principles and how to use financial blessings in a God-honoring way. THE IMPACT OF CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION (CCCU) ON MINISTRIES LIKE HOUSE OF REFUGE SUNNYSLOPE:House of Refuge Sunnyslope in Phoenix provides transitional housing and focuses on preventing homelessness and sharing the gospel.CCCU helped them acquire adjacent property to expand their single moms program, providing affordable financing and rapid problem-solving.CCCU’s contributions are guided by Scripture, investing resources in ministries that further the gospel and support vulnerable communities. THE ROLE OF CCCU MEMBERS IN KINGDOM WORK AND TREASURE BUILDING IN HEAVEN:Joining CCCU aligns members with a Christian financial institution that invests in spreading the gospel and aiding ministries.Members’ deposits help provide affordable financing for church construction and ministry growth.Products like the Cash Rewards Visa Card benefit members and contribute to Christian charities, with CCCU having donated over $6 million to date. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm interested in internet banks for their high savings and CD rates, which seem to offer over 5%, and I want your opinion on them.At 76 years old and retired with various accounts like annuities and a money market, I'm wondering if there are any other financial avenues I should consider at this stage in my life.With $125,000 saved to buy a property in Florida, I'm unsure what to do with this amount as it has been sitting in a bank for over 10 years in a regular money market account.I'm 61, and my wife is 63. We're looking to renovate our paid-off house and are considering how to finance the updates, including potentially using our HELOC, which is one minus prime.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Christian Credit CounselorsFind 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.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.

DECIDING WHEN TO START RECEIVING SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITSIt's recommended to delay receiving Social Security benefits until Full Retirement Age (FRA) of 66 or 67, as benefits are permanently reduced by about 8% for each year you start taking them before reaching FRA. BREAK-EVEN POINT FOR DELAYING SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITSIf you delay receiving Social Security benefits until FRA, it takes nearly 12 years to recoup the money you missed by not taking benefits early. After around age 79, you'll be financially ahead each month for the rest of your life. LIFE EXPECTANCY CONSIDERATIONS FOR SOCIAL SECURITYOnce you reach age 65, the average life expectancy is 86 for females and 83 for males. While there's no guarantee of living that long, the odds are in your favor, making it beneficial to wait for higher monthly benefits. WORKING WHILE RECEIVING SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITSIf you start receiving Social Security benefits before FRA and continue to work, your benefits will be temporarily reduced if you earn more than a certain amount. For 2024, the earning limit is $22,320 before FRA and $59,520 in the year you reach FRA. REIMBURSEMENT OF REDUCED SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITSAny reduction in your Social Security benefits due to earning above the limit will be reimbursed once you reach FRA. The reduction is calculated as $1 for every $2 or $3 earned above the limit, depending on your age. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:As a pastor with a salary of $70,000 and a housing allowance of $20,000, can I still claim the standard government deduction after reducing my taxable income to $50,000?I have a rental property I'm considering selling in a year or two; do I have to pay capital gains on it and can I use some of the sale funds to pay off my primary residence?My husband and I are in our early 50s, working with a solid retirement plan, and are exploring mutual funds to save for home renovations and other goals in the next 5-10 years.RESOURCES MENTIONED:For selecting mutual funds: Betterment or Schwab Intelligent Portfolios 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.

Leo Sabo is president of the Christian Stewardship Network and a Faith and Finance contributor. He also knows a thing or two about starting a stewardship ministry.  THE FUNDAMENTAL IMPORTANCE OF STEWARDSHIP MINISTRIES IN CHURCHESBiblical Foundation: Stewardship ministries are vital as they align with biblical teachings about money and possessions, which are prevalent throughout the Bible.Discipleship and Purpose: These ministries guide congregants in using money as a tool for fulfilling their God-given calling and purposes, emphasizing discipleship in financial matters. STEPS FOR ESTABLISHING A STEWARDSHIP MINISTRY IN A CHURCH1. Securing Leadership Support: Begin by gaining the church leadership's endorsement. Emphasize that the ministry's focus is on making true disciples and equipping them, rather than just fundraising.2. Assessing Congregational Needs: Understand the financial needs and desires of the church members through surveys. Tailor the ministry's educational content to these identified needs.3. Team Formation and Training: Assemble a passionate team and provide them with comprehensive training that includes both biblical teachings and practical application.4. Initiating the Ministry: Launch with a significant event, like a seminar or workshop, to establish the ministry's presence and importance in the church community.5. Celebrating and Reporting Impact: Share success stories and regularly report the ministry's positive impact to maintain support and encourage participation. RESOURCES AND SUPPORT FOR CHURCHES INITIATING STEWARDSHIP MINISTRIESChristian Stewardship Network: The network offers a wealth of resources, including training programs and a platform for connecting with other stewardship leaders. Annual Forums and Continuous Learning: They organize events like the CSN Annual Forum and continuously release new courses to keep stewardship leaders updated and equipped.Membership and Community Connection: By joining the network, church leaders can engage with a larger community of stewardship professionals, enhancing their ministry's effectiveness through shared knowledge and experiences. CONCLUSION AND ENCOURAGEMENT FOR PARTICIPATIONImportance of Involvement: Leo Saibot underscores the significance of these ministries and encourages listeners to visit the Christian Stewardship Network for further guidance and resources. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ALSO ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:My 14-year-old son has saved $100 and is asking for advice on how to start smart with his financial life; what would be the best advice for him?I'm contemplating a reverse mortgage for my home valued at over a million dollars, but I'm concerned about the implications and whether it's the best option for my financial situation.I own a rental property and the renter wants to buy it, along with an additional acre of land; I'm considering selling it and need advice on how to handle this transaction and its impact on my finances.I'm looking at downsizing and came across a 'lifestyle home loan' which seems like a reverse mortgage; I want to know if this is a good option for me and what it entails. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Robinhood or Stockpile for fractional shares investingEventide Mutual Funds for faith-based investingMovement Mortgage for evaluating or getting a second opinion on home loans 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.