Faith & Finance

REFLECTION ON LAST YEAR'S PREDICTIONSBob Doll reflects on his previous year's predictions, noting that while they achieved a 50% accuracy rate, it fell short of their usual 72% mark. The unexpected strength in the economy and labor market, combined with a decrease in inflation, led to deviations from their projections.The economy was stronger than expected, preventing the anticipated recession.Inflation continued to decrease but did not reach the central bank's target of 2%.Stock market valuations increased, particularly for a small group of high-performing stocks. OUTLOOK ON THE US ECONOMY FOR THE UPCOMING YEARBob predicts a mild recession for the upcoming year, citing residual issues from Federal Reserve tightening and an inverted yield curve. He expresses skepticism about the current optimistic outlook for a soft landing in the economy.A mild recession is anticipated due to ongoing economic tightening and yield curve inversion.The labor market remains strong, posing challenges for reducing inflation.A shift from almost unanimous recession expectations to widespread soft landing predictions is observed.10 PREDICTIONS FOR 2024:Bob explains that the ideal 'Goldilocks' scenario of perfect economic balance is unlikely. The predictions for 2024 involve trade-offs between strong earnings growth and low inflation, which are mutually exclusive under current economic conditions. 1. The U.S. economy experiences a mild recession as the unemployment rate rises above 4.5%. 2. The 2-3% inflation ceiling of the 2010s becomes the 2-3% inflation floor of the 2020s. 3. The Fed cuts rates fewer than the six times suggested by the Fed funds futures curve4. Credit spreads widen as interest rates decline.5. Earnings growth falls short of the double-digit percentage consensus expectation.6. Stocks record a new all-time high early in the year, but then experience a fade.7. Energy, Financials and Consumer Staples outperform Utilities, Healthcare and Real Estate.8. Faith-based share of industry AUM rises for the eighth year in a row.9. Geopolitical crosscurrents multiply but have little impact on markets.10. The White House, Senate and House all switch parties in November.  THE ONLY THING CERTAIN IS UNCERTAINTYThe main focal point for 2024 is likely to be whether investors enjoy further significant progress on inflation, decent economic growth and double-digit earnings growth. We’re skeptical. Either 1) we get a noticeable slowdown/recession and earnings fall short, or 2) double-digit earnings growth materializes, probably requiring stronger economic growth, less progress (if any) on inflation and a Fed that is boxed in. The long-predicted recession will likely materialize in 2024, although it most likely will be brief and shallow. Also, after the largest growth in the money supply since WWII (due to COVID), we’re now experiencing the biggest decline since the 1930s. Can a productivity boom rescue the U.S. via AI, automation and robotics? Only time will tell. We expect the 2023 momentum and Fed cut euphoria to fade early in the new year, resulting in lackluster earnings growth and downside risk to equities as 2024 unfolds. At some point, the political dysfunction in Washington, D.C., and record non-recession, non-war deficits will pile up even as interest expense takes an even larger share of  ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I purchased a $10,000 I bond back in October 2022 with high rates; should I keep it for a few years and continue investing in it or consider liquidating it?As a truck driver, I spend a lot of time on the road and I'm considering selling my mobile home, which is on rented property, to invest in a piece of land or another home.My wife and I each have an IRA worth about $200,000, and with potential tax rate changes in 2026 and our increasing income due to delayed Social Security benefits, should we consider converting our IRAs to Roths? 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.

INFLATION “FELL”?There’s something you need to understand about the inflation numbers you hear in the news, such as, “Inflation fell to 3.2% last month on an annualized basis.” Some folks think that means prices went down, but it really only means that the rate of price increases has gone down.  INFLATION'S PERMANENT PRICE INCREASES:A decrease in inflation rate means slower price increase, not price reduction.Even if inflation drops to zero, the high prices from past inflation remain. WAGE GROWTH NOT KEEPING UP WITH INFLATION:A significant portion of workers report their wages haven't kept up with inflation, leading to financial strain.Many Americans have used their savings or resorted to credit card use due to the discrepancy between income and rising costs.To cope with financial strain, it's essential to adjust one's lifestyle and budget, potentially including major changes like downsizing.IMMEDIATE COST-CUTTING STRATEGIES:Freeze credit cards literally to curb impulse spending.Remove saved credit card information from online accounts to prevent easy online purchases.Utilize cash for daily expenses to control spending and potentially save 10% to 30%.Preparing extra meals in advance helps avoid expensive fast food, saving money in the long run.Learn to cut hair at home to save on salon expenses, which can add up significantly over time.Lower the temperature in your water heater. Your water heater accounts for 20% of your monthly electricity cost, and lowering it to 120 could cut you 10% on your bill.So there you have it— ways you can cut back on spending today to counteract inflation. Let us know how it works out. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:My wife and I are financially stable and have discussed retiring early, but we're unsure if we have saved enough; when is it enough to retire comfortably and still give to the kingdom?Should I aggressively pay off my student loans now or wait and hope for loan forgiveness, considering I work at a nonprofit and am eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program?My son is considering cashing out his Roth IRA to pay off a business mortgage; is this a wise decision given the potential penalties and loss of compound growth?My wife is nearing 62, and we're considering whether to take her Social Security benefits early or wait, especially with concerns about potential future Social Security reductions.I'm interested in online high-yield savings accounts and whether they are as beneficial as they claim to be, and I also want to know if canceling unused credit cards or reducing credit limits can affect my credit score. 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.

WHY ARE BENEFICIARY DESIGNATIONS IMPORTANT?Beneficiary designations are crucial because they're an easy, quick, and free way to transfer assets, accounts, and insurance benefits after passing away. They take precedence over wills or trusts and are significant because they skip probate and remain private.Beneficiary designations offer a straightforward method to transfer assets after death.They are prioritized over estate planning documents and bypass the probate process.Keeping them updated and accurate is crucial for ensuring assets are distributed as intended. WHAT ARE THE KEYS TO REMEMBER ABOUT DESIGNATING BENEFICIARIES?When designating beneficiaries, it's important to consider various account types like IRAs, 401(k)s, life insurance policies, and regularly update these designations. Ensure that primary and contingent beneficiaries are named and understand the implications of each type. It's also vital to coordinate with your will or trust and consider the potential uneven growth of different assets.Review and update beneficiary designations across different accounts regularly.Distinguish between primary and contingent beneficiaries and understand their roles.Coordinate beneficiary designations with your will or trust to ensure your estate plan reflects your wishes. IS THERE EVER A REASON NOT TO DESIGNATE BENEFICIARIES?Generally, there's no good reason to avoid designating beneficiaries. Not doing so can lead to confusion, interpretation by others, or court decisions. Ideally, it's better to name a specific person rather than leaving it to documents or courts.It's always advisable to designate beneficiaries to avoid leaving asset distribution open to interpretation.Designating specific individuals as beneficiaries is preferable to relying on estate documents or courts.Regular updates to beneficiary designations are essential to maintain clarity in estate planning. WHAT ARE COMMON MISTAKES IN HANDLING BENEFICIARY DESIGNATIONS?A common mistake is the "set it and forget it" approach, where individuals fail to regularly update their beneficiary designations. This oversight can lead to outdated or unintended distributions of assets.Regularly revisiting and updating beneficiary designations is crucial to reflect current intentions.Ignoring the need for updates can result in unintended or outdated asset distribution.Coordinating beneficiary designations with overall estate plans ensures consistency and fulfills intended wishes. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I'm curious about tax lien auctions; if I purchase a property with a tax lien and the original owner doesn't reclaim it, am I responsible for the existing mortgage?As a retiree, I'm considering using $10,000 annually from my $200,000 retirement fund for family vacations; is this a wise decision?I'm at full retirement age, receiving Social Security while working full-time; I wonder how my continued employment will affect my future Social Security benefits.Next year, when I turn 60, I plan to start drawing Social Security; I'm concerned about the earnings limit and how it affects my benefits.We have an adjustable-rate mortgage; with current high rates, should we consider refinancing or stick with our current mortgage? 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.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.

“The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it, for he has founded it on the seas and established it on the rivers.” Psalm 24:1-2: Mark Regier is Vice President of Stewardship Investing at Praxis Mutual Funds. WHAT IS STEWARDSHIP INVESTING AND HOW DOES IT INCORPORATE CREATION CARE?Stewardship investing is an approach rooted in biblical principles, emphasizing responsibility and management of all that God has entrusted to us. It involves recognizing God's ownership over everything and managing resources wisely and according to His wishes. This philosophy extends to caring for our neighbors, seeking justice, peace, and importantly, caring for the world God created.Stewardship investing is about managing resources as God's stewards, recognizing His ownership.The approach involves investing responsibly and ethically, integrating care for neighbors and the environment.It emphasizes investing in ways that do not harm the world but seek to improve it, aligning with biblical stewardship. HOW CAN INVESTMENT MANAGERS SUPPORT CREATION CARE?Investment managers can support creation care through various strategies, including investing in green and social bonds, engaging in shareholder advocacy, and community investing. Green and social bonds finance projects with positive environmental or social impacts. Shareholder advocacy involves using shareholder power to influence corporate behavior towards more sustainable practices. Community investing directs funds to help marginalized communities adapt to a changing climate and embrace emerging technologies.Investing in green and social bonds that finance environmentally friendly projects.Engaging in shareholder advocacy to influence corporate policies and practices.Community investing to support marginalized groups affected by environmental changes. WHAT IS GREENWASHING AND HOW CAN INVESTORS AVOID IT?Greenwashing is when companies or funds claim to be more environmentally friendly or engaged in sustainable practices than they actually are. It's important for investors to research and verify these claims. To avoid greenwashing, investors should look deeply into company or fund activities, visit their websites for environmental reports, understand the information's source, and consider the company's willingness to discuss and address environmental issues. Transparency and evidence of genuine sustainable practices are key to discerning genuine efforts from greenwashing.Greenwashing is misleading claims about environmental practices or benefits.Investors should research and verify environmental claims made by companies or funds.Looking at a company's actual environmental policies, actions, and willingness to engage in discussions about sustainability can help avoid greenwashing. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I live on a fixed income of less than $1,000 a month and want to tithe. Should I adjust my expenses to give 10% or is it more about the condition of my heart when it comes to giving?I have a CD maturing and I'm considering locking into a longer term at a higher interest rate. Is it advisable to lock in for a longer term, like 4.75% for five years? 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 Director of the Institute for Christian Financial Health, which administers the Certified Christian Financial Counselor program.  WHAT DO CHRISTIAN FINANCIAL COUNSELORS DO?Christian financial counselors aim to integrate God's design into financial decisions. They guide individuals and couples through making wise financial choices, establishing healthy financial habits, and increasing biblical and financial literacy.They help you understand and pursue God's design for money.They guide you in wise decision-making and developing sound financial habits.They increase your understanding of both biblical and financial principles. WHO NEEDS A CHRISTIAN FINANCIAL COUNSELOR?We actually have a list of signs that may indicate you would benefit from a Christian Financial Counselor:1. Your finances feel out of control. Your finances feel like one big mess. Every month, you are just flying by the seat of your pants. There is no direction, only disorganization. And it stresses you out. You know something must change. A Christian Financial Counselor can help make sense of the mess. They can help you develop financial goals and organize your finances. 2. You need to know what financial step to take next. It feels like you are, financially, just existing. There seems to be no progress in your finances. This is mainly because you have yet to learn what progress looks like. A Christian Financial Counselor can look at your financial situation and suggest wise next steps.3. You need help creating and maintaining a budget. Most of us know that budgeting is a good idea. However, many don’t know how to craft a reasonable budget or have struggled to stick with one. This is one of the top reasons individuals and couples seek out a Christian Financial Counselor. A Christian Financial Counselor educates clients on how to craft a budget and keeps them on track.3. You are loaded with debt. The Bible says that debt is a burden. Anyone who has carried debt would agree with this. And as time goes on, the burden of debt feels heavier. A Christian Financial Counselor will review a client’s debt and craft a debt payoff plan. Having this plan in place and providing regular check-ins motivate clients to pay off debt more quickly.4. You are regularly arguing about money with your spouse. God designed married couples to operate as one, even in finances. And you want this, but you need help to get on the same financial page with your spouse. Money is not a point of unity but a point of division. A Christian Financial Counselor can help a couple get on the same financial page. They can help couples understand one another money personality and how their past experiences with money are influencing their decisions today.5. You need accountability. You know what to do, but this knowledge only sometimes leads to the right action. You are still tempted to spend money you should save. You still give out of your leftovers. You still add to the credit card balance. Regular meetings with a Christian Financial Counselor can create accountability around your finances. Those feeling overwhelmed or disorganized with their finances might consider seeking a Christian financial counselor. Signs include feeling out of control, struggling with budgeting, being burdened by debt, marital discord over money, or needing accountability in financial matters.WHAT ARE THE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH CHRISTIAN FINANCIAL COUNSELING?Typically, Christian financial counselors charge an hourly session fee, similar to other counseling services. This investment often leads to significant returns, as clients are more engaged and committed to following the advice given.Most counselors charge an hourly rate, encouraging client commitment.The fees help ensure clients are engaged and complete necessary steps.The return on investment from counseling typically outweighs the cost. WHERE CAN PEOPLE FIND MORE INFORMATION OR SEEK COUNSELING?Visit ChristianFinancialHealth.com. The site offers a directory of certified counselors and information on certification programs. ON TODAY'S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I am in my 70s with term life insurance and substantial debt; is it wise to drop my life insurance to pay off the loans?I've recently upped my company contributions to 10% for my 401k and am considering a Roth option; should I diversify more outside the company for better returns?I own an older car with some issues and high mileage; when does it make sense to drop the comprehensive part of my insurance?I have $100,000 in an annuity nearing the end of its term; should I reinvest it at a fixed rate or look into online CDs for potentially higher returns? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Sound Mind InvestingChristian Financial Health 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.

“If anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” 1 Timothy 5:8It’s a pleasure to welcome Harlan Accola back to the program. Harlan is with Movement Mortgage, an underwriter of this program. He is also the author of Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement.  WHY ARE REVERSE MORTGAGES REFERRED TO AS THE CINDERELLA OF RETIREMENT PLANNING?Reverse mortgages are seen as the Cinderella of retirement planning because they have been underestimated but hold significant potential for aiding in financial stability, especially for widows.These government-insured tools have been marginalized but can provide significant help for those living longer, particularly by offering financial support without the burden of monthly repayments.The concept resonates with the Cinderella story due to its transformative potential and the gradual recognition of its value in the retirement planning space. WHAT IS THE TYPICAL FINANCIAL CONDITION OF MANY WIDOWS?Many widows end up in poverty post their spouse's demise. Currently, 20% of women over 65 are in poverty, and that number is increasing. Half of women over 65 are single.Most live only on social security. 50% live into their 90s, while only 30% of men make it into their nineties. Women are four times more likely to outlive their spouses. 85% of people over 85 are widows. After a spouse's death, income usually decreases by 40% because only one social security check continues.  HOW CAN REVERSE MORTGAGES AID?Reverse mortgages can provide financial relief by allowing access to home equity without requiring monthly repayments, thus offering a consistent income stream to manage living expenses and maintain a standard of living. WHAT ARE SOME SPECIFIC WAYS REVERSE MORTGAGES CAN BE USED TO AID WIDOWS?Delaying Social Security: Reverse mortgages can help individuals delay taking Social Security benefits, thereby increasing the eventual payout and providing a larger financial safety net.Long-term Care: It can be used for covering long-term care expenses, often a significant financial burden, without depleting other retirement savings drastically.Increasing Generosity: By alleviating financial strain, reverse mortgages can enable individuals to continue or even increase their charitable giving, as they find more financial flexibility.Provides Peace of Mind: Utilizing a reverse mortgage can offer significant peace of mind by securing a source of income and potentially freeing up resources for other necessary or desired expenses. WHY IS IT CHALLENGING FOR PEOPLE TO UNDERSTAND THE BENEFIT OF REVERSE MORTGAGES?Cultural Perception: Reverse mortgages are often seen negatively due to cultural misconceptions and the general aversion to debt, despite being a unique form of debt with no mandatory monthly payments.Misinformation: There's a lack of understanding and misinformation about how reverse mortgages work, their safety, and their place in a comprehensive retirement plan.Stewardship Aspect: Understanding reverse mortgages as a form of stewardship, using all resources God has provided wisely, including home equity, is crucial but often overlooked in the broader context of financial planning. SUMMARY AND FINAL THOUGHTS ON REVERSE MORTGAGES AND WIDOWSImportance of Protecting Widows: The Bible mentions widows 102 times, indicating God's concern for their wellbeing and the need for society to protect and support them.Safety and Stewardship: Reverse mortgages are seen as the safest form of borrowing, especially important in the stewardship of God's given resources, including the home.Comprehensive Stewardship: Properly using all assets, including home equity, in alignment with biblical wisdom and stewardship principles, is crucial in ensuring the well-being of the surviving spouse and fulfilling God's command to care for widows. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ALSO ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I recently sold a property and am wondering if it's better to use the proceeds to pay off my investment property or invest in mutual funds?I have some extra money each month and am unsure whether to use it to pay off our mortgage sooner or invest it in a 401k or something similar? 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.

You won’t find the word “budget” in the Bible, but it does say a lot about stewardship— and budgeting is stewardship. Having a spending plan and sticking to it is the only way to control your money, stay out of debt and gain peace of mind about your finances. When you practice faithful stewardship, you no longer have to worry about your money, because you’ve accepted that it’s God’s money. He owns everything. So budgeting is a key part of stewardship.  BIBLICAL BASIS FOR BUDGETINGProverbs 27:23 emphasizes the need to be aware of one's assets: "Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds."Proverbs 21:20 contrasts wise and foolish financial behaviors: "Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it." COMMON EXCUSES AGAINST BUDGETINGMath Skills Not Required: With tools like the FaithFi app, anyone can set up a budget quickly, even without strong math skills.Overconfidence in Income: Assuming one doesn't need a budget due to high income can be risky, especially with job market uncertainties.Relying on Unemployment Benefits: Unemployment benefits are often insufficient, highlighting the need for a robust emergency fund.Fear of Reality: Fear or shock of realizing overspending on non-essentials can deter budgeting but recognizing this is the first step to better financial health.Past Failures: Initial difficulties in budgeting are normal; perseverance is key.Complacency with Surplus: Surpluses can diminish over time due to inflation or lifestyle creep, underscoring the need for deliberate saving and spending. BENEFITS OF BUDGETINGLiberation over Limitation: A well-maintained budget is liberating rather than limiting, allowing intentional and wise use of money.Preventive Measure: Budgeting acts as a preventive measure against debt and financial crisis, encouraging early adoption of wise spending habits.Intentional Giving: A budget helps in being more intentional in giving, aligning with the understanding that all resources are God's provision. CONCLUSIONChristians should view budgeting not as a restrictive tool but as a liberating and wise approach to managing finances, aligning with biblical stewardship, and ensuring a more secure and intentional use of God's resources.One financial commentator put it like this: “A budget is like a fence around your money. It protects it from impulse spending. You can still spend money on things you enjoy— as long as you stay on budget.”You can hide behind your budget fence and avoid a great deal of financial danger.ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ALSO ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I own two rental properties and am contemplating whether to sell them to the school district, which offered their appraised value, to pay off debts and possibly invest elsewhere or keep them for rental income in retirement.I'm 63 years old, wondering when the best time to start taking Social Security is, and considering selling my paid-off home in a good location, needing advice on the timing and financial implications of both decisions. 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.

The usual “honey-do” jobs are anything but sweet. “Get the oil changed”, “Empty the dishwasher”, and “take the dog to the vet” are a few that come to mind.  But if you think about it, these are jobs we do because we love our family, and we want things to go smoothly around the house.God doesn't require good works for salvation; however, they're a necessary, joyful part of living for Christ. Scripture emphasizes the interconnection of faith and works, underscoring that like a body without spirit is dead, so is faith without works. SCRIPTURE INSIGHTS:James 2: Faith apart from works is dead.Ephesians 2:10: We are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.John 11:25: Believing in Christ is the foundational work of God.2 Corinthians 9:8: God will provide all you need to abound in every good work. LIVING OUT FAITH THROUGH GOOD WORKS: Embrace your responsibilities in God's family to keep things running smoothly and to spread God's love. Understand that God has already prepared specific good works for you. To discover these works:Foster a right relationship with Jesus.Engage in prayer and scripture reading to discern God's will.Trust that God will provide the necessary resources, time, and energy. FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP AND GOOD WORKS:Consider good works as part of your spiritual budget, protecting you from missing out on God's blessings and joy. Be proactive in identifying and undertaking the good works God has prepared for you, whether it's meeting a financial need, volunteering your time and skills, or sharing your faith. ENCOURAGEMENT AND ASSURANCE:Even if you're unsure or intimidated by the good works God has for you, remember He provides and guides. Your commitment to doing these works reflects your faith and can lead to a more fulfilled and impactful Christian life. Seek opportunities for generosity and be open to God's leading in every area of your life.You can hide behind your budget fence and avoid a great deal of financial danger. ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ALSO ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I own my home with a mortgage set to be paid off in 2039 and have the means to pay it off now, but my attorney advised against it, and I'm unsure what to do.I'm considering closing my long-held Disney credit card due to a shift in values and am concerned about how it will affect my credit score, especially with a possible vehicle purchase ahead.As a 60-year-old single woman raising three minor children with some savings, I need advice on investing to grow my money, particularly as my part-time income won't last forever.How can I locate my previous 401(k)s after learning my former employer switched their 401(k) plan provider, and I'm unsure how to track it down? 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.

THE ISSUE OF IDENTITY & BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE:In today's culture, there's pressure to define ourselves by worldly standards, but for Christians, true identity is found in Jesus, not in worldly achievements or possessions.John 1:12 says: But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.DANGERS OF WORLDLY IDENTITY & SPIRITUAL PITFALLS:Focusing on wealth or success can lead to pride, envy, constant comparison, worry about finances, and disillusionment, as these pursuits never truly satisfy.Letting money or success define us can make us believe our worth is tied to our work, income, or spending, leading to a lack of peace and misguided identity. SCRIPTURAL GUIDANCE:Galatians 3:28 and Colossians 1:27 teach that our identity in Christ transcends worldly measures like job status or wealth; our true value is rooted in being made right with God through Jesus.LIVING IN — AND OVERCOMING — A BROKEN WORLD:Despite our identity in Christ, we still face challenges due to living in a broken world, but God continually calls us back to Him, reminding us of our true identity. As children of God, we can rely on Him for provision, help, and peace, free from fear and guilt, supported by the community of believers and empowered by the Holy Spirit. ETERNAL HOPE:If you believe Jesus is the son of God, and acknowledge his work on the cross saves you from sin, your identity is secure as a child of God, forgiven and free.  Your hope is eternal, and your inheritance in Christ will last forever. If you want the full story, read Romans 7 and 8! ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I have a life insurance policy with a critical illness rider in my 50s; should I keep it or change it to a non-rider policy?What data or information are economists using to predict that home interest rates might drop over the next year?I heard about switching from a savings account to a CD with a higher interest rate at Wells Fargo Bank; should I make this switch?I'm retired and considering using part of my $500,000 deferred comp to pay off my $84,000 mortgage, but I'm concerned about the tax implications; also, should I invest this money differently? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Bankrate.com (for comparing interest rates on savings accounts and CDs) 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.

UNDERSTANDING THE PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPE:Tax preparers are typically CPAs (Certified Public Accountants), Enrolled Agents, or specialized attorneys. CPAs have more stringent requirements than Enrolled Agents.There's a shortage of CPAs and Enrolled Agents, leading to firms hiring high school interns at competitive rates to encourage CPA careers.Due to professional shortages, there's a risk of encountering unscrupulous tax preparers, potentially leading to scams like refund fraud and identity theft. SAFEGUARDS AGAINST FRAUD:Seek preparers available year-round, especially useful in case of audits.Verify the preparer’s IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) through the IRS directory.Inquire about their professional credentials and continuing education to ensure they're up-to-date with tax laws.Check their professional history via the State Board of Accountancy for CPAs, the IRS for Enrolled Agents, and State Bar Association for attorneys. WARNING SIGNS TO WATCH FOR:Avoid preparers who base fees on refund percentages or boast unusually high refunds.Ensure preparers offer and use IRS e-file; reluctance to e-file can be a red flag.Legitimate preparers will request documents and receipts; be cautious of those who don’t or who offer to file with inadequate documentation, like just a pay stub. KNOWING YOUR RIGHTS & BEST PRACTICES FOR TAX FILERS:Understand that only CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and attorneys can represent you in audits. Non-credentialed preparers, like a numerically skilled relative, cannot offer this representation.Never sign a blank or incomplete tax return.Review and understand your tax return before signing, ensuring refunds are directed to your account. One way you can avoid any potential problem with your tax preparer is to look for a CPA, Enrolled Agent or tax attorney with the Certified Kingdom Advisor designation FaithFi.com.  ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:I've been with a broker for 10 years and am concerned about unknowingly investing in companies that don't align with Christian values; how can we identify these companies and make faith-based investment choices?I'm retiring soon and under an old pension plan; should I take my pension to pay off debts or roll it into an IRA and pay off debts gradually?I have the opportunity to buy a two-acre parcel with two old trailers across from my house, but it's overpriced and would require a HELOC; is this a good financial decision?Living in Cook County, I found my house was over-assessed and doesn’t have a basement or attic as claimed; I appealed, but it was rejected because the market value assessment remains high – what should I do next?RESOURCES MENTIONED: FaithFi.com/show (for a list of faith-based investment firms)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.