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Questions@faithfi.com (FaithFi: Faith & Finance)
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Faith & Finance
How to Calculate Your Personal Cost of Living
You track your steps. Maybe even your calories. But do you know what it really costs to live each month?Your personal cost of living is one of the most important numbers in your financial life. Without it, you may be spending in ways that don’t reflect your values—or your faith. Let’s explore why this number matters, how to calculate it, and how it ties into faithful stewardship.The Basics of StewardshipNo matter your income level or stage of life, the same principles apply. There are five things you can do...
2025-09-12
24 min
Faith & Finance
Is It Time for a Fall Financial Reset?
Feeling the post-summer financial fog? You’re not alone—but now’s the perfect time to reset.Summer is a season of rest, family, and fun—but it can also knock our financial habits off course. That’s why fall is an ideal time to pause, reflect, and get back on track. Let’s explore six small but meaningful steps that can help realign your finances with your goals—and your faith.Summer Spending Can Leave You Off BalanceSummer often brings looser schedules and, sometimes, looser spending. That’s okay—we need time to rest. But...
2025-08-25
24 min
Faith & Finance Minute
Faith and Truth
How does faith play in to your finances? Rob West encourages us that even if we have not made all the best financial decisions, God can deliver from hopeless debt. It will take some sacrifice, but God has and will continue to help. Do you believe it? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2025-07-10
01 min
Faith & Finance
Building a Family Legacy That Lasts with Jan Thompson
What does it mean to design a family legacy with intention? And how do you make sure that legacy is rooted in faith? Today, we’re talking about the legacy you’ll leave behind—and how to shape it while you still can. Jan Thompson joins us to share how you and your family can ensure your faith is reflected in what you leave behind.Jan Thompson is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and the co-founder of One Degree Advisors with over 30 years of experience in financial planning, where she specializ...
2025-07-01
24 min
Faith Radio On Demand
Faith & Finance - Making an Intentional Impact with God's Money with Afton Phillips
“If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches?” - Luke 16:11What if managing money is about more than just numbers and budgets—what if it’s a window into something eternal? Afton Phillips joins us today as we explore the mission behind the message you hear every day on this program, and how you can be a part of it.Afton Phillips is the Head of Content at FaithFi: Faith & Finance. The Heart Behind the MissionSo why focus so much on f...
2025-06-26
24 min
Faith & Finance
Making an Intentional Impact with God's Money with Afton Phillips
“If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches?” - Luke 16:11What if managing money is about more than just numbers and budgets—what if it’s a window into something eternal? Afton Phillips joins us today as we explore the mission behind the message you hear every day on this program, and how you can be a part of it.Afton Phillips is the Head of Content at FaithFi: Faith & Finance. The Heart Behind the MissionSo why focus so much on f...
2025-06-26
24 min
Faith & Finance
Finding the Right Financial Advisor with Sharon Epps
"Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." — Proverbs 15:22When it comes to managing money wisely, many of us could use some help, but how do you know you’ve found the right financial advisor? Today, we’ll explore a few key questions you should ask when hiring someone to help you with your financial decisions. Sharon Epps is here to help us navigate that process.Sharon Epps is the President of Kingdom Advisors, FaithFi’s parent organization. Kingdom Advisors serves the broad Christian financial industry by educating and equipping professionals to integ...
2025-05-28
24 min
Faith & Finance
The Heart Behind FaithFi with Taylor Standridge
“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” — Matthew 6:21That powerful truth from Jesus captures the heart of FaithFi’s mission and vision.If money issues are ultimately heart issues, then we need more than financial tips—we need a heart change that helps us see God as our ultimate treasure. Today, Taylor Standridge joins us to explore the deeper purpose behind FaithFi and how you can partner in that mission.Taylor Standridge is the Production Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance and the co-author of Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional...
2025-05-12
24 min
Faith & Finance
3 Benefits of Faith-Based Investing with Dr. Finny Kuruvilla
When we invest our hard-earned money, we naturally seek a financial return—but could there be other rewards as well?Faith-based investing offers more than just financial gains. Today, Finny Kuruvilla joins us to explore the deeper impact of aligning our investments with our values.Dr. Finny Kuruvilla serves as a Co-Chief Investment Officer, Senior Portfolio Manager, and founding member of Eventide Asset Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. He holds an M.D. from Harvard Medical School, a Ph.D. in Chemistry and Chemical Biology from Harvard University, a master’s degree in Electrical Engi...
2025-03-26
24 min
Faith & Finance
Avoiding Credit Card Float with Chad Clark
Why don’t credit cards ever drown? Because they always have a float to keep them afloat!A little humor to start your day, but in reality, credit card float is no laughing matter—it can quietly put you one step behind financially and even lead to unexpected interest charges. Today, Chad Clark joins us to break down what credit card float is and how you can steer clear of its pitfalls.Chad Clark is the Executive Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance and the co-author of Look at the Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear...
2025-02-24
24 min
Faith & Finance Minute
Excuses for Not Budgeting
Everyone can come up with an excuse or two for not budgeting. The FaithFi app gives you three different ways to set up a budget, and it does the math for you. Download it wherever you get your apps and search for FaithFi: Faith & Finance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2025-02-19
01 min
Faith & Finance
Who Needs A Budget? with Chad Clark
“Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.” - Proverbs 21:20God’s Word couldn’t be any plainer on the need to live below one’s means and to be able to save for the future. To do that, you need a budget. Chad Clark is here to share some interesting facts about budgeting.Chad Clark is the Executive Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance and the co-author of Look at the Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety. More People Budget Than You Think—But T...
2025-01-07
24 min
Faith & Finance
FaithFi’s 2024 Impact Report with Chad Clark
"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." - Colossians 3:17God created man for His glory. That means everything we do should glorify God, including how we manage money. Chad Clark joins us today to talk about how FaithFi is helping God’s people be more faithful stewards—all for His glory.Chad Clark is the Executive Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance and the co-author of Look at the Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety.
2024-12-30
24 min
Faith & Finance
Exploring Faith-Based ETFs with Brian Mumbert
There’s a great investing option out there, and chances are, it’s not in your portfolio.That option is Exchange-Traded Funds or ETFs, and they’re worth considering. Brian Mumbert joins us today to discuss the advantages of ETFs.Brian Mumbert is Vice President and Regional Sales Executive at Timothy Plan, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.What is an ETF?An Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) is an investment option similar to a mutual fund but with distinct features. ETFs typically follow an index, such as the S&P 500 or NASDAQ, and are no...
2024-11-21
24 min
Faith & Finance
Why A Biblical Worldview Matters In Our Finances with Chad Clark
If you’ve ever thought you view the world differently than others—that has probably never been more true.A new study has revealed a sharp drop in the number of Americans with a biblical worldview. Chad Clark joins us today with his insights.Chad Clark is the Executive Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance and the co-author of Look at the Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety. The State of the Biblical WorldviewRecent findings from the 2023 American Worldview Inventory conducted by Arizona Christian University. This survey, led by Dr...
2024-11-12
24 min
Faith & Finance
Why Faith-Based Money Management? with Bob Doll
Why do you suppose Jesus had so much to say about money and possessions?Our Lord and Savior knew that how we handle money can reveal our spiritual priorities. Every financial decision has a spiritual component, which can even be true of our investing. Bob Doll joins us today to answer, “Why should we strive for faith-based money management?”Bob Doll is the CEO and CIO of Crossmark Global Investments. He regularly contributes to Faith and Finance and other media outlets, such as Bloomberg TV, Fox Business, and CNBC. The Mission of Crossmark Globa...
2024-10-30
24 min
Faith & Finance Minute
A Secret About Faith & Finance Callers
In our call-in program, Faith and Finances, Rob West answers real questions from real people! You can ask your question as well, just call 800-525-7000 or email: AskRob@FaithFI.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2024-10-23
01 min
Faith & Finance
Look At the Sparrows with Taylor Standridge and Chad Clark
“Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” - Matthew 6:26God has promised to provide, and He is ever faithful. Knowing that is one thing; believing and living by it is another. Taylor Standridge and Chad Clark join us today to launch a brand new tool to help you overcome financial fear and anxiety. Taylor Standridge and Chad Clark (along with Carolyn Calupca) are the authors of the new FaithFi devotional “Look At The Spar...
2024-09-12
24 min
Faith & Finance Minute
Pleasing God by Faith
The Bible says we can’t please God without one specific thing. Rob West shares from Hebrews 11:6 about faith! God is pleased when we live our lives by faith in Him— trusting in Him to meet all of our needs. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2024-06-27
01 min
Faith & Finance
FaithFi: The Mission with Chad Clark
You’ve probably heard the saying…“If you aim at nothing, you'll hit it every time.” But do you know who coined it?Christian author and speaker Zig Ziglar is credited with that famous quote. It urges us to set goals and stay on mission. What are our goals, and what’s our mission here at FaithFi? Chad Clark fills you in today and invites you to be a part of it all.Chad Clark is the Executive Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance. Integrating Faith and Finances for God’s GloryAt FaithFi, o...
2024-06-21
24 min
Faith & Finance Minute
Giving Out of Faith
Today Rob West solutes those that give from their lack. They give to the Lord’s work by faith and out of love for God not out of their abundance and trust God to provide. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2024-05-31
01 min
Faith & Finance
For Where Your Treasure Is With Chad Clark
Are you storing up treasures on earth, or in heaven? Are you focused on the temporal or the eternal?In Matthew 6, Jesus clarifies that our hearts will always follow after what we treasure. Was he talking about money? Chad Clark shares his insights with us today. Chad Clark is the Executive Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance. What does Jesus mean when he says, “For where your treasure is, your heart will be also”? It challenges us to evaluate what we treasure most. It's common for us to say that where our money i...
2024-05-24
24 min
Faith & Finance
Cut Your Healthcare Costs With Lauren Gajdek
What options and rates do Christian Health Ministries offer?CHM is not health insurance, but medical cost-sharing, and nonprofit, enabling us to keep member costs down. CHM shares 100% of eligible medical bills, over $10 billion since its founding in 1981. Here are some of the plan costs to start (for individuals):Bronze, $92 per unit, per month Silver, $138 per unit, per monthGold, $240 per unit, per monthSenior Share, $115 per unit, per monthHow is being a member of Christian Healthcare Ministries more flexible than most health insurance plans?CHM members are not limited to a provider network. T...
2024-04-22
24 min
Faith & Finance
When To Take Social Security With Eddie Holland
What should folks consider when making this decision?People should consider the following when deciding when to take Social Security benefits:Understanding that if they take benefits before full retirement age, they will be subject to a reductionDelaying past full retirement age means receiving an annual increase of 8% called a delayed retirement creditCash flow needs if retiring and replacing incomePaying down debtIncreasing charitable givingHealth and longevity in the family (impacting how long benefits may need to last)Legacy goals and inheritance, as Social Security benefits can't typically be passed on while portfolio assets can beIncome taxes...
2024-03-28
24 min
Faith & Finance
Do Investors Care About Faith-Based Investing? With Shaun Morgan
Shaun Morgan is the Director of Product Marketing at Eventide Asset Management, an underwriter of this program. IS THERE A NEED TO REBRAND "FAITH-BASED INVESTING"?Shaun Morgan discusses the ambiguous understanding of "Faith-Based Investing" among investors who consider faith important in their lives. Eventide's survey reveals that terms like "Values-Based Investing" and "Faith-Based Investing" often lead to neutral or unfamiliar responses, suggesting a gap in communication and understanding.The term "Faith-Based Investing" does not resonate strongly with many, even those who prioritize their faith.A survey indicates a general lack of awareness an...
2024-03-18
24 min
Faith & Finance
Materialism: Putting “Things” in Their Place
THE DANGER OF MATERIALISM AND FINDING CONTENTMENT IN GODMaterialism contradicts God's plan for His people by prioritizing the love of material things over loving God. This attitude can hinder our relationship with Him and rob us of peace. The Bible, in Ecclesiastes 2:11, warns us of the futility in pursuing material wealth, emphasizing that everything is meaningless without God. LIE #1: LIFE IS BETTER WITH MOREThis mindset leads to an endless cycle of discontentment as no amount of wealth can truly satisfy.Ecclesiastes 5:10 states that those who love money will never have e...
2024-03-15
24 min
Faith & Finance Minute
Faith or Fear about Money?
What motivates you, your faith in the Lord or fear of things you can’t control? Rob West examines the danger of operating in fear and the blessings of seeking God. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2024-03-12
01 min
Faith & Finance
Trusting God with Your Money Matters
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: Hi...
2024-03-12
24 min
Faith & Finance
Will or Trust or Both?
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 a...
2024-03-11
24 min
Faith & Finance
LLC vs. C-Corp vs. S-Corp for Your Business
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 f...
2024-03-08
24 min
Faith & Finance
30 Years of Faith-based Investing With Chad Horning
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 inv...
2024-03-04
24 min
Faith & Finance
Why Choose Faith-Based Financial Solutions?
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...
2024-02-29
24 min
Faith & Finance
Update on Lebanon Crisis With Tom Atema
WHAT DOES HEART FOR LEBANON AIM TO ACHIEVE, AND HOW HAS THE RECENT FIGHTING AFFECTED THEIR MISSION?Heart for Lebanon creates faith-defining environments for under-resourced families in Lebanon to encounter God and grow spiritually. Recent fighting has expanded the ministry's outreach, particularly aiding families fleeing from conflict zones near the border.Heart for Lebanon aims to provide basic necessities and spiritual guidance to families in Lebanon.Recent fighting has increased the demand for their services, with many families seeking refuge and assistance.WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MAJOR CRISIS SITUATIONS IN LEBANON, AND...
2024-02-27
24 min
Faith & Finance
The Dangers of Budgeting With Chad Clark
Chad Clark is Executive Director here at FaithFi. WHAT ARE THE DANGERS OF HAVING A BUDGET?A budget, while essential for managing finances, comes with potential dangers such as idolizing money, succumbing to pride, and relying more on the budget than on God.Idolizing money can occur when constant monitoring of finances leads to an excessive focus on money instead of God.Pride can emerge from achieving financial goals, leading to self-boasting rather than recognizing God's provision.Relying too heavily on a budget may restrict following God's promptings that go beyond our f...
2024-02-21
24 min
Faith & Finance
Helping the Kids Buy a House
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...
2024-02-13
24 min
Faith & Finance
The Love of Money
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 o...
2024-02-09
24 min
Faith & Finance
Helping Your Divorced Daughter With Ron Blue
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 sit...
2024-02-07
24 min
Faith & Finance
Banking On Eternal Rewards With Aaron Caid
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 CH...
2024-02-02
24 min
Faith & Finance
How Much Can You Make On Social Security?
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 EX...
2024-02-01
24 min
Faith & Finance
Private Market Investing With Tim Macready
Tim Macready is head of Global Multi-Asset Investing with BrightLight, an EverSource Wealth Advisors Team. HOW DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN AND A LEADER IN THE FAITH-BASED INVESTING MOVEMENT?Tim grew up on the mission field and returned to Australia for studies, initially working with pension plans. His desire to do something meaningful led him to a faith-based pension fund in Sydney. For 15 years, he has explored what it means to be a faithful steward of God's resources, now working with pension funds, investment advisors, and families at the intersection of faith and investing....
2024-01-30
24 min
Faith & Finance
The Futility of Fear
SCRIPTURES ON FEAR AND GOD'S PRESENCE:Jesus asks a powerful question about worry in Matthew 6:27, asking, "Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”Romans 8:15 encourages reliance on God instead of falling back into fear: "For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!’”Faith is the opposite of fear, and fear is a tool used by Satan to distract from God's goodness. COMMON "WHAT-IF" FEARS AND THEIR FUTILITY:Rob...
2024-01-26
24 min
Faith & Finance
Is Your Budget Due an Overhaul?
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 po...
2024-01-16
24 min
Faith & Finance
Created for Good Works
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 INSIG...
2024-01-08
24 min
Faith & Finance
Identity in Money vs Identity in Christ
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...
2024-01-05
24 min
Faith & Finance
Know Your Tax Preparer
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...
2024-01-04
24 min
Faith & Finance
Bad Credit Is Expensive
GOD'S WORD ON PAYING DEBTS:Proverbs 3:27 emphasizes the importance of paying back debts on time: "Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it."DEFINING GOOD CREDIT SCORES:FICO scores range from 300 to 850, with a good score between 670 and 739.A very good score is between 740 and 799, and excellent is 800 to 850.Higher credit scores result in better interest rate offers from lenders.IMPACT OF CREDIT SCORE ON LOANS AND INTEREST RATES:A higher credit score (740+) can significantly reduce interest rates...
2024-01-03
24 min
Faith & Finance
Inside Out Stewardship
The following is an encore presentation from 2023.Chad Clark is Executive Director here at FaithFi. WHERE DOES STEWARDSHIP BEGIN?Start by envisioning a target with three rings. When we think about stewardship we need to start in the inner circle, the bullseye, which is our heart.At the heart of a good and faithful steward you will find a love and devotion to Christ. Really, it’s our identity that is found in Christ as Galatians 2:20 points out “It is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me”.This is contrary to the world...
2023-12-28
24 min
Faith & Finance
3 Steps To Ease Marriage Tension
The following is an encore presentation from 2023.Shaunti Feldhahn is a relationship expert and the author of several very helpful books about marriage, including Thriving in Love and Money.There’s a saying about marriage: “When money troubles come in the door, love goes out the window.” But Shaunti has 3 steps for couples to keep that from happening. 3 STEPS TO ERASE TO AVOID FINANCIAL TENSION IN YOUR MARRIAGE1. ENSURE MARGIN: Make sure you have a cushion — some margin in your budget and finances. The Feldhahns conducted a three-year st...
2023-12-27
24 min
Faith & Finance
Economics of the Nativity With Jerry Bowyer
That’s from the Christmas Story in Luke, Chapter 2. The angels announce the coming of the Savior to a group of shepherds. It sounds simple enough … but there’s more to the story. Jerry Bowyer joins us to talk about it. Our guest, Jerry Bowyer, is the author of The Maker Versus the Takers: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics. It’s loaded with amazing insights about Jesus' time on earth from an economic perspective. Angels carried probably the most important message in history … why deliver it to shepherds? Weren’t they social o...
2023-12-22
24 min
Faith & Finance
Heart for Lebanon
With everything going on in Israel right now why is it important to funnel resources to Lebanon?Because the level of despair in Lebanon is at an historic high. And . . . Because God is working there like never beforeThere is an urgency to this situation - 2.5 million refugees in a country of only 4 million. More per square mile than any place in the worldA collapsed economy - World Bank calling it the worst economic collapse in 150 years. 85% of everyone living there needing aid and 99% of every refugee family looki...
2023-12-21
24 min
Faith & Finance
Where to Give with Sharon Epps
So how would God's word in particular give us guidance on this giving portfolio approach?Jesus gives His mission here on earth in Luke 4:18-19 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.”This is a really is a model for a giving portfolio So how do you...
2023-12-20
24 min
Faith & Finance
Make S.M.A.R.T Financial Resolutions
If you’ve made a resolution to manage your money better this year, how can you be sure to keep it for the long haul? Today we’ll help you avoid the pitfalls of resolution failure. No matter when you make them, resolutions are hard to keep. The most common excuses for giving up on our resolutions are…lack of willpower, forgetfulness, and plain old laziness. Break old habits and develop new good habits. Make a clear plan. Financial resolutions are almost guaranteed to fail if you don’t set up a budget. H...
2023-12-18
24 min
Faith & Finance
Leverage Your Time
UNDERSTANDING TIME'S WORTH IN GOD'S PERSPECTIVE:God values our time, as evidenced by Psalm 90:12, which states, "Teach us to number our days, that we may get a heart of wisdom."James 4:14 reminds us of the fleeting nature of life, saying, "You do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes."Realizing the value of time can influence how we approach work and manage our finances.CALCULATING REAL HOURLY WAGE:To understand what our time on the job is really...
2023-12-15
24 min
Faith & Finance
6 Signs That Money Is an Issue in Your Marriage With Art Rainer
Art Rainer is a regular contributor here at Faith and Finance and the author of several books, including The Marriage Challenge: A Finance Guide for Married Couples. WHAT ARE SOME WARNING SIGNS THAT INDICATE A COUPLE MAY HAVE PROBLEMS WITH MONEY?Frequent heated arguments about money are a major red flag. It's concerning if discussions about budgeting, spending, debt, or giving lead to intense disagreements.Financial infidelity is another critical issue. This includes hiding purchases, maintaining secret bank accounts or credit cards, or exceeding spending limits without informing the spouse.Using money as a we...
2023-12-12
24 min
Faith & Finance
What is Biblical Financial Stewardship? With Chad Clark
WHAT IS BIBLICAL FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP ACCORDING TO FAITHFI?Biblical financial stewardship, as FaithFi defines it, is about letting Scripture influence and inform financial decisions. It's not just following financial principles from the Bible, like recognizing God as the owner and ourselves as managers, giving cheerfully, avoiding debt, and planning for the future, but it's also about understanding these principles in the broader context of Scripture. All Scripture ultimately points to Jesus, shaping a deeper relationship with Him. FaithFi's purpose is to help Christians see God as their ultimate treasure, not money or possessions. It's about changing the...
2023-12-11
24 min
Faith & Finance
Certainty in Uncertain Times With Sharon Epps
Sharon Epps is the President of Kingdom Advisors. WHAT IS THE CURRENT STATE OF ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY ACCORDING TO RECENT RESEARCH, AND WHAT ARE ITS EFFECTS?Economic uncertainty is at a high, as indicated by the International Monetary Fund's World Uncertainty Index. Covering data from 143 countries over the past 60 years, the current level of uncertainty is among the highest since 2000. This uncertainty can lead to fear, decision paralysis, and irrational decision-making.Economic uncertainty is significantly high currently, comparable to the highest levels since 2000.This uncertainty can cause fear, hinder decision-making, and lead to ir...
2023-12-06
24 min
Faith & Finance
A Movement of Faithful Stewards With Chad Clark
WHAT DOES A "MOVEMENT OF FAITHFUL STEWARDS" LOOK LIKE AND WHAT IS FAITHFI TRYING TO ACHIEVE?FaithFi aims to integrate faith into financial decisions, moving beyond just wise money management. The mission is to help Christians see their finances through the lens of faith, as every aspect of life, including finances, should be influenced by faith. FaithFi supports this integration, recognizing the challenge but stressing its importance. The goal is to guide Christians to be good stewards of their resources.It's about integrating faith and finances, not just being wise with money.FaithFi's mission is to...
2023-11-28
24 min
Faith & Finance
Investing: The 4th Source of Alpha With Shaun Morgan
WHAT IS ALPHA IN INVESTING, AND CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE FIRST THREE SOURCES OF IT?Alpha refers to an investor making higher returns than the overall market.The first source is having access to superior information, like fundamental investors using detailed research.The second source is better processing of information, where quantitative investors use models and patterns.The third source involves exploiting irrational behavioral biases in other investors, like investing contrary to market trends. EVENTIDE NOW SUGGESTS A FOURTH SOURCE OF ALPHA. WHAT IS IT?The fourth source comes from a biblical worldview, focusing o...
2023-11-27
24 min
Faith & Finance
A Home Buyer's Market?
A Home Buyer’s Market? With Dale VermillionNormally, November through February are the slowest months of the year for home sales, and that means buyers have more bargaining power. Will it happen this year? Dale Vermillion gives us his take on the market today.Dale Vermillion with us again today. Dale’s the author of Navigating The Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home. CURRENT TRENDS IN INTEREST RATES AND MORTGAGES:Dale Vermillion notes that interest rates are continuing to rise, but there's hope for decreases in 2024 as pre...
2023-11-25
24 min
Faith & Finance
Living the Abundant Life
THE WORLD'S MESSAGE VS. JESUS' CALL:The world encourages material accumulation and personal success for happiness, but this stands in contrast with Jesus' call to follow Him for abundant life.Material success is fleeting and ultimately insignificant in the light of eternity, and while happiness is ambiguous, abundance as promised by Jesus is desirable and everlasting. THE CONCEPT OF ABUNDANCE:The Old Testament presents abundance in material terms, as seen in Deuteronomy 28:11 and Psalm 31:19, with the caveat that it required faithfulness to God.Despite this, human nature led to repeated loss of abundance due t...
2023-11-24
24 min
Faith & Finance
Have a Grateful Thanksgiving
THANKSGIVING'S ORIGINS AND HISTORICAL CONTEXT:The official declaration of Thanksgiving as a national holiday occurred in 1863 by President Abraham Lincoln, amidst the Civil War and the Battle of Gettysburg, to offer thanks to God and pray for national healing.The Puritans' first Thanksgiving in 1621 followed a period of severe hardships, including a delayed voyage on the Mayflower, a tough winter, and a period known as "the starving time," where nearly half of the Puritans perished.PERSEVERANCE AND FAITH OF THE PURITANS:Despite their struggles, the Puritans' Thanksgiving celebrated survival and harvest, with Governor William...
2023-11-23
24 min
Faith & Finance
Lowering Energy Costs at Home this Winter
ENERGY-SAVING TIPS: 1. Ceiling Fans: Reverse ceiling fan direction clockwise in winter to circulate warm air from the ceiling.2. Conserve Electricity: Unplug electronic devices when not in use. Use power strips to easily cut off power to multiple devices.3. Chargers: Unplug device chargers when not in use to prevent unnecessary energy draw.4. Home Maintenance:Seal drafty doors and windows.Install foam gaskets behind switches and outlets on exterior walls for better insulation.Ensure proper attic insulation.Regularly check heating and air system filters.5. Thermostat Setting: Keep at 68 degrees when the h...
2023-11-22
24 min
Faith & Finance
4 Rollover Mistakes To Avoid
AVOIDING RETIREMENT PLANNING MISTAKES:The most significant mistake is not saving enough during working years. A recommended practice is contributing 10-15% of income to a retirement plan like a 401(k), 403(b), or an IRA.The earlier the start in saving for retirement, the better, due to the benefits of compound earnings. Relying solely on Social Security is not advisable. COMMON ROLLOVER MISTAKES TO AVOID:Not adhering to the one-per-year rule for IRA rollovers can result in significant tax implications and a 6% tax for excess contributions.Missing the 60-day deadline for rollovers from an IRA t...
2023-11-21
24 min
Faith & Finance
Financial Discipleship For Families With Brian Holtz Pt. 1
Brian Holtz is the Chief Operating Officer at Compass—Finances God’s Way. He’s also the author of a brand new book, Financial Discipleship for Families: Intentionally Raising Faithful Children. WHY A BOOK ABOUT MONEY FOR PARENTING?Jesus used money in parables to teach spiritual lessons, making it relatable and insightful for teaching children.Managing money according to God's principles impacts our relationship with Him. ACTIVE VS. REACTIVE PARENTINGActive parenting involves setting goals and preparing children for future financial decisions.Reactive parenting addresses issues only as they arise, often in a...
2023-11-20
24 min
Faith & Finance
Faith Full Giving
Faith Full GivingAccording to Hebrews 11:1, faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Faith is the heartbeat of our walk with God. Today we’ll find out what the story of Cain and Abel has to tell us about faith as it relates to giving.Our confidence, or faith, that God is who he says he is, and that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life…are rooted in God’s word. We have purpose and hope because of our faith, which touches every area of...
2023-11-17
24 min
Faith & Finance
A Home Buyer's Market?
A Home Buyer’s Market? With Dale VermillionNormally, November through February are the slowest months of the year for home sales, and that means buyers have more bargaining power. Will it happen this year? Dale Vermillion gives us his take on the market today.Dale Vermillion with us again today. Dale’s the author of Navigating The Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home. CURRENT TRENDS IN INTEREST RATES AND MORTGAGES:Dale Vermillion notes that interest rates are continuing to rise, but there's hope for decreases in 2024 as pre...
2023-11-15
24 min
Faith & Finance
CHM: A Health Insurance Alternative For Open Enrollment
CHM: A Health Insurance Alternative For Open Enrollment With Lauren GajdekChoosing a health insurance plan is probably right up there with paying taxes as an unwelcome annual task. Wouldn’t it be great if you never had to do it again? Lauren Gajdek is with us to tell you how today.Lauren Gajdek, Vice President of Communications and Media at Christian Healthcare Ministries, an underwriter of this program.Discussion on Health Cost Sharing:Lauren Gajdek explains that Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM) is an option that allows enrollment anytime during the year, of...
2023-11-14
24 min
Faith & Finance
7 Steps for Buying a Used Car
According to the car shopping site iSeeCars.com, used car prices have jumped 41% over the past several years! Here are some tips to take the edge off of that sticker shock. OUR 7 TIPS FOR BUYING A USED CAR: 1. Establish Your Budget: Determine how much you can afford, whether paying in cash or financing, ensuring the payments fit within your budget. Aim for a down payment of 10-20% and keep the loan term as short as possible, ideally three years.2. Choose the Right Make and Model: Consider your family size, cargo space needs...
2023-11-11
24 min
Faith & Finance
Christian Financial Planner Update with Kurt Cornfield
Do you like helping people get their finances in order? Maybe you have a gift for numbers? A while back we broke the news about a whole new career field that’s opening up— the Christian Financial Planner. Kurt Cornfield is here today to give us an update. Kurt Cornfield is Associate Professor of Financial Planning at Liberty University. He’s also a Certified Financial Planner and a Certified Kingdom Advisor. WHAT IS THE CHRISTIAN FINANCIAL PLANNER PROGRAM? Seven Christian universities that have offered certified financial planner (CFP) programs are adding certified kingdom adviser content. So students...
2023-11-09
24 min
Faith & Finance
Living the Abundant Life
THE WORLD'S MESSAGE VS. JESUS' CALL:The world encourages material accumulation and personal success for happiness, but this stands in contrast with Jesus' call to follow Him for abundant life.Material success is fleeting and ultimately insignificant in the light of eternity, and while happiness is ambiguous, abundance as promised by Jesus is desirable and everlasting. THE CONCEPT OF ABUNDANCE:The Old Testament presents abundance in material terms, as seen in Deuteronomy 28:11 and Psalm 31:19, with the caveat that it required faithfulness to God.Despite this, human nature led to repeated loss of abundance due t...
2023-11-07
24 min
Faith & Finance
7 Marks of a Good Steward
Jesus entrusted us with the Gospel and gave us His immeasurable love by dying on the Cross. As stewards of those priceless gifts, we’re to share them with the world. So keep in mind that stewardship isn’t just about money.So what are the marks or characteristics of good stewards? 1. Acknowledgment of God's Ownership: Good stewards understand that everything is God's (Deuteronomy 8:18, "You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth"). They hold resources temporarily and avoid hoarding or coveting.2. Recognition of God...
2023-11-04
24 min
Faith & Finance
7 Steps for Buying a Used Car
According to the car shopping site iSeeCars.com, used car prices have jumped 41% over the past several years! Here are some tips to take the edge off of that sticker shock. OUR 7 TIPS FOR BUYING A USED CAR: 1. Establish Your Budget: Determine how much you can afford, whether paying in cash or financing, ensuring the payments fit within your budget. Aim for a down payment of 10-20% and keep the loan term as short as possible, ideally three years.2. Choose the Right Make and Model: Consider your family size, cargo space needs...
2023-11-02
24 min
Faith & Finance
When Couples Disagree On Giving With Ron Blue
Ron Blue is the founder of Kingdom Advisors, our parent organization. He’s also the author of a shelf-full of books on biblical finance.Disagreements in marriage, especially on topics like money and faith, are common. Giving can be a contentious issue since it involves both. RON BLUE'S EXPERIENCE AND ADVICE:Ron shares a personal experience about how his wife's silent example led him to embrace tithing and giving, emphasizing the importance of living a compelling Christian life over pressing the issue.He advises couples to prioritize their relationship and demonstrate a Chri...
2023-11-01
24 min
Faith & Finance
Senior Medical Sharing With Lauren Gajdek
Lauren Gajdek is Vice President of Communications and Media at Christian Healthcare Ministries, an underwriter of this program. WHAT IS BIBLICAL COST SHARING AT CHM?Christian healthcare ministries (CHM) is not a health insurance company.CHM helps members with their medical bills through a biblical model, working with healthcare providers to get bill discounts and then remitting payments back to the members.CHM has existed for over 40 years and has shared almost $10 billion in medical bills. TELL US ABOUT THE SENIOR SHARE PROGRAM.Senior Share is for individuals aged 65 and older.Members nee...
2023-10-28
24 min
Faith & Finance
Emotional Buying and Impulse Spending During the Holidays
It seems as if retailers start the so-called “traditional buying season” earlier and earlier every year. There’s a lot of pressure to spend money on holiday décor, gifts, and experiences. Well, if they can start early, so can we. We’re going to help you prepare … by resisting the temptations of emotional buying and impulse spending. It's crucial to prepare in advance to avoid succumbing to emotional buying and impulse spending. EMOTIONAL BUYING:It's crucial to prepare in advance to avoid succumbing to emotional buying and impulse spending.Most buying decisions, espe...
2023-10-27
24 min
Faith & Finance
Count Your Blessings: The Power of Gratitude
SCRIPTURAL REFERENCE TO GRATITUDE:1 Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” POWER OF GRATITUDE:Focusing on gratitude can help shift one's perspective from fear and discouragement to hope.Psalm 118:4-5: “Let those who fear the Lord say, ‘His steadfast love endures forever.’ Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me free.”John 16:33: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” GRATITUDE DURING DIFFICULT TIMES:Reflecting on God's blessings c...
2023-10-26
24 min
Faith & Finance
Invite God Into Your Finances With Sharon Epps
Sharon Epps is the president of Kingdom Advisors.[1:15]WHAT ARE THE BASIC WAYS MONEY CAN BE USED?Money is represented by the "live, owe, grow pie.” We say “pie” as that illustrates the fact that it needs to be divided up because there are a limited number of pieces.Debt has several dangers: it can be economically dangerous as compounding can work against you; spiritually dangerous because it may prevent opportunities for God to intervene; and psychologically dangerous as it can induce anxiety and threaten marital unity.Proverbs 22:7 mentions that the borrower becomes a slave to the...
2023-10-25
24 min
Faith & Finance
Leverage Your Expertise
We want to give a “shout out” to Ken Boa and Russ Crosson for their book, “Leverage: Using Temporal Wealth for Eternal Gain. It’s a blueprint for how we can take the Bible’s financial principles and put them into practice for God’s Kingdom. In other words, taking something that’s temporary and making it eternal.Again, leveraging our finances to advance the Kingdom is extremely important, but we must also acknowledge that God gives us many gifts, including time, talent and experience. We need to look for ways to use them for the Kingdom, as well, if we’...
2023-10-24
24 min
Faith & Finance
7 Marks of a Good Steward
Jesus entrusted us with the Gospel and gave us His immeasurable love by dying on the Cross. As stewards of those priceless gifts, we’re to share them with the world. So keep in mind that stewardship isn’t just about money.So what are the marks or characteristics of good stewards? 1. Acknowledgment of God's Ownership: Good stewards understand that everything is God's (Deuteronomy 8:18, "You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth"). They hold resources temporarily and avoid hoarding or coveting.2. Recognition of God...
2023-10-23
24 min
Faith & Finance
Senior Medical Sharing With Lauren Gajdek
Lauren Gajdek is Vice President of Communications and Media at Christian Healthcare Ministries, an underwriter of this program. WHAT IS BIBLICAL COST SHARING AT CHM?Christian healthcare ministries (CHM) is not a health insurance company.CHM helps members with their medical bills through a biblical model, working with healthcare providers to get bill discounts and then remitting payments back to the members.CHM has existed for over 40 years and has shared almost $10 billion in medical bills. TELL US ABOUT THE SENIOR SHARE PROGRAM.Senior Share is for individuals aged 65 and older.Members need...
2023-10-19
24 min
Faith & Finance
Be Doers of the Word
SELF-EXAMINATION:Start by taking an honest assessment of your current financial situation and feelings towards money.Worrying about bills, arguing with a spouse, or avoiding charitable giving are signs of needing a change.Change can be daunting, but it is beneficial when facing financial troubles. TURNING TO SCRIPTURE:Isaiah 43 highlights that God is doing something new and will provide a way.Rely on biblical truths, such as those in Hebrews 4:12, can guide financial actions and mindset.Psalm 24:1 emphasizes that everything belongs to God, shifting the perspective from personal ownership to stewardship.Embracing this principle c...
2023-10-18
24 min
Faith & Finance
7 Steps to Challenge Your Property Assessment
7 Steps to Challenge Your Property AssessmentIt’s great when the value of your home goes up, but there’s also a serious downside. Homeowners all across America are getting notices that their property taxes are increasing. But are those assessments accurate? And if not, what can you do about it? Today we’ll give you the 7 steps to challenging your property assessment. Real estate analysts correctly predicted a surge in property taxes due to increased home values. Although rising home values are beneficial in theory, they often lead to increased property taxes that homeowners must pa...
2023-10-10
24 min
Faith & Finance
Financial Potholes that Can Wreck Your Budget
So, let’s look at three financial potholes that can wreck your budget. You’ll save money — and a big headache — if you can steer clear of these: 1. SCAMS:New scams are constantly appearing due to technology. Protection Measures:Keep devices updated with antivirus software.Guard your social security number and passwords.Learn more about identity theft at the FTC’s website or call 877-ID THEFT.Be wary of money transfer requests, especially if unverified.Avoid clicking on links from suspicious emails or texts.Do not share personal information over phone or email...
2023-10-05
24 min
Faith & Finance
5 Types of Loans To Avoid With Howard Dayton
Howard Dayton is the founder of Compass— Finances God’s Way and the former host of this program. 0:55 - WHAT'S THE FIRST LOAN TYPE WE SHOULD AVOID?Finance Company loans: High interest rates, large fees, and closing costs.Important to differentiate between interest rate and the APR, as the latter includes additional costs. 1:24 - AND THE SECOND?Payday loans:Viewed as "legalized robbery."Typically have an APR of 390%.Creates a cycle of borrowing due to high interest rates, with borrowers often giving away their entire paycheck to cover...
2023-10-02
24 min
Faith & Finance
3 Ways To Lose Money
MAXIMIZING 401(K) CONTRIBUTIONS:Not contributing enough to a 401(k) to receive the maximum employer matching contribution can result in money loss.An additional strategy involves "front-loading" contributions at the beginning of the year to maximize compound earnings, with the annual contribution limit noted as $22,500 (or $30,000 for those aged 50 or older).Caution is advised to maintain contributions throughout the year to secure the employer match effectively. UTILIZING ROTH IRAS:In cases where employers do not offer 401(k) plans, establishing a Roth IRA is recommended to prevent money loss due to compound earnings over time.Roth IRAs p...
2023-09-29
24 min
Faith & Finance
3 Biblical Principles for Debt With Sharon Epps
[1:00]"Live, give, owe, and grow" are principles that guide our money management, and today we're focusing on "owe" or debt.The Bible doesn't explicitly state that borrowing is wrong, but it does caution that debt can be enslaving and change relationships between borrowers and lenders. [2:14]3 SIMPLE BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES FOR HANDLING DEBTRepay what you borrow. Psalm 37:21 teaches, “The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously." Free yourself from debt as quickly as possible. Proverbs 22:7 carries the stark warning, “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is sla...
2023-09-27
24 min
Faith & Finance Minute
Excuses for Not Budgeting
Everyone can come up with an excuse or two for not budgeting. The FaithFi app gives you three different ways to set up a budget, and it does the math for you. Download it wherever you get your apps and search for FaithFi: Faith & Finance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2023-09-26
01 min
Faith & Finance
Financial & Spiritual Lessons for Kids
HELPING CHILDREN GRASP SPIRITUAL TRUTHS BEHIND THE FINANCIAL ONES [1:07]Age-appropriate lessons include introducing the concept of money and work around age three to five.Spiritual lessons include understanding that God created everything and that work is a gift from God. Gratitude and thanksgiving should be emphasized, as well as the importance of budgeting. The three-jar method (saving, spending, giving) can be introduced around age five.[2:31]Saving for the future and generosity are important spiritual principles to instill. Around ages 9 to 10, children can learn about earning money and that work is a gift from God. Chores can be tied...
2023-09-26
24 min
Faith & Finance
Should You Set Up a Legacy IRA?
If you’re not familiar with the latest variation of the individual retirement account— it wouldn’t be surprising. It’s only gone into effect this year. ABOUT LEGACY IRAs[0:43]Unlike a traditional IRA, a Legacy IRA indirectly provides income to retirees through a Charitable Gift Annuity (CGA).A CGA is an agreement between a donor and a nonprofit organization, where the donor donates assets, and the nonprofit provides regular payments for life based on the donated assets, keeping the assets upon the donor's death.The Legacy IRA allows individuals over the age of 70...
2023-09-25
24 min
Faith & Finance
Is Your Bank Unbiblical, Pt. 2 With Aaron Caid
Aaron Caid is Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of this program. Again, this is part two of our discussion. Please give us a brief recap of what your survey revealed and how folks feel about banks that don't share their values.Over 30% of Christians surveyed in a recent study considered switching banks in the last year.One of the top three reasons for switching was misalignment with Christian values. More than 60% of respondents care deeply about managing their finances biblically. Over 50% believe it's crucial for their bank to align with an...
2023-09-22
24 min
Faith & Finance
Working Multiple Jobs
God created human beings for work, emphasizing its importance throughout the Bible for personal growth and God's glory.Adam and Eve were given the responsibility of caring for the Garden of Eden, showcasing that work was a gift to maintain their relationship with God.Despite the challenges brought about by sin, the desire for meaningful work persists within people.Many individuals are working multiple jobs, influenced by financial constraints, with more than 7.7 million workers in such situations as of 2022.Keeping multiple jobs organized is crucial, requiring task, schedule, and contact management, whether using online apps or traditional planners.Effective communication...
2023-09-21
24 min
Faith & Finance
3 Steps to Bless Your Pastor With Brian Kluth
“And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.” Jeremiah 3:15Brian Kluth is a best-selling author of several books on generosity. He was a pastor himself for 10 years and is now the national spokesman for the annual Bless Your Pastor initiative, which is organized by the National Association of Evangelicals. Tell us about the three-step program for blessing pastors and church staff.The three steps are:1. Download free materials for your church and share them with church leaders, including a flier...
2023-09-20
24 min
Faith & Finance
A Tidal Wave of Wealth
First, a hat tip to our friends at The Gospel Coalition for a great article on this topic.By 2030, Baby Boomers are expected to pass nearly $68 trillion in assets to their children, primarily millennials.Millennials are projected to hold five times as much wealth by 2030 compared to today.Concerns arise regarding the impact of declining church giving as Boomers pass away.Smaller and larger churches alike are experiencing a downturn in giving, with even larger evangelical churches seeing a drop during the COVID-19 pandemic.Younger generations prioritize charitable giving, potentially offsetting the decline.Christian Boomers can influence their a...
2023-09-18
24 min
Faith & Finance
3 Financial Questions To Answer With Ron Blue
Ron Blue is co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of several books on personal finances from a biblical perspective, including Never Enough?: 3 Keys to Financial Contentment. Ron published a video series a while back for Kingdom Advisors that revealed 3 questions everyone needs to answer. 3 KEY QUESTIONS: 1. WHO OWNS IT? This question is so foundational because until you answer that question, you don't know the difference between the steward and the owner. And when I say I own it, then I can do whatever I want with money. But if I say Go...
2023-09-06
24 min
Faith & Finance
Stories Of Hope From Zambia With Chikondi Phiri
“Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”Chikondi Phiri is Country Director of Family Legacy Missions Zambia, empowered by Family Legacy Missions International, a ministry that is literally changing the lives of thousands of kids in Zambia today. Most Americans don’t understand how desperate many of Zambia’s children are for basic things like food, shelter, and education. In a country with about six and a half million children, more than a mi...
2023-08-22
24 min
Faith & Finance
Is Your Bank Unbiblical? With Aaron Caid
Aaron Caid is our go-to guy for what’s happening in the banking industry. He’s the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of this program.Aaron says we are starting to see what could be the next big exodus for Christians in the marketplace today, and that is Christians choosing to bank with their values.CCCU has been hearing from new members who have joined the credit union after becoming fed up with their secular bank. So they decided to go out and find out if this feedback was more than...
2023-08-18
24 min
Faith & Finance
Moving from Renting to Buying With Aimee Dodson
RENT OR BUY? It used to be almost universally true that, at least in the short term, it was cheaper to rent a home than to buy one. But that’s not necessarily the case today. Aimee says some markets are seeing a staggering increase in rent. Limited supply is one of the factors that has driven up both rental and purchase prices in recent years. She says, “Part of it is the fact that there's a continually rising number of what they call new home creations, which are new people needing to buy homes. And th...
2023-08-04
24 min
Faith & Finance
Healthcare Freedom of Choice With Lauren Gajdek
IN-NETWORK? We’ll start with “in-network” versus “out-of-network” medical costs, which is something consumers really need to be aware of. Healthcare Plans generally cover out-of-network emergency room care as if it were in-network, but not visits to out-of-network doctors and other treatment.That could cost you 4 or 5 times more than in-network care. NO NETWORKWhile Christian Healthcare Ministries helps its members cover their healthcare costs, it is not an insurance company. Members are not bound to a particular network of providers. As long as their treatment is eligible for...
2023-08-01
24 min
Faith & Finance
3 Steps To Ease Marriage Tension With Shaunti Feldhahn
Shaunti Feldhahn is a relationship expert and the author of several very helpful books about marriage, including Thriving in Love and Money.There’s a saying about marriage: “When money troubles come in the door, love goes out the window.” But Shaunti has 3 steps for couples to keep that from happening. 3 STEPS TO ERASE TO AVOID FINANCIAL TENSION IN YOUR MARRIAGE1. ENSURE MARGIN: Make sure you have a cushion — some margin in your budget and finances. The Feldhahns conducted a three-year study involving a couple-thousand people. They found that no matter the...
2023-07-14
24 min
Faith & Finance
Report From Zambia With Mario Zandstra
Mario Zandstra is the President and CEO of Family Legacy Missions International, which is a ministry focused entirely on helping Zambia’s orphans.Family Legacy Missions helps to feed and educate many orphans each year, but right now they have a special summer program going on.This summer, FLM will have over 2,400 children come to Camp Life on the Hilltop in Lusaka Zambia. The children come from the compounds and communities in Lusaka and their caregivers make about $1.25 per day. The children's caregivers cannot afford to send their kids to school. In Lusaka alone, there are ov...
2023-07-10
24 min