Faith & Finance with Rob West

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” — Matthew 6:21 Long before Scripture speaks about budgets, investments, or generosity, it asks a deeper question: What do we truly value? Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:21 aren’t merely financial advice. They reveal a profound spiritual reality. Our treasures—what we prioritize, pursue, and protect—reveal the direction of our hearts. Understanding this truth reshapes the way we think about money, wealth, and ultimately, life itself.

What do Bigfoot and credit reports have in common? They’re both surrounded by myths. While we may never settle the question of an eight-foot-tall creature wandering the woods, we can clear up the confusion around credit reports. On this episode of Faith & Finance, Neile Simon, a Certified Credit Counselor with Christian Credit Counselors, stops by to clear up some of the most common misconceptions about credit reports and credit scores. Understanding how credit really works can help you avoid costly mistakes and make wiser financial decisions.

“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” - Psalm 127:3 Children are a precious gift from God—an inheritance to cherish and steward well. Along with the joy of welcoming a new baby comes a new layer of responsibility, including financial decisions that can shape your family’s future. A thoughtful checklist can help bring clarity and peace during a season that is both beautiful and demanding. Here are several key financial steps to consider after bringing a newborn home.

Homes hold memories. They hold family history, meaning, and for many, a lifetime of love. But as we age, the very places that once felt secure can quietly become harder—and riskier—to live in. Most homes in the U.S. were never designed for aging bodies. Yet many older adults feel emotionally and financially locked in. The result? Families delay important housing decisions until a crisis forces change. Today, we were joined by Harlan Accola, who leads the reverse mortgage team at Movement Mortgage, about a lesser-known option that may help older adults move into safer homes—without taking on new required monthly payments.

What if the Bible doesn’t just give us advice about money—but reshapes the way we think about it entirely? The messages we absorb from culture shape our fears, our goals, and even where we look for security. But Scripture offers a different foundation—one that brings clarity, freedom, and purpose to every financial decision. Ron Blue—co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and a pioneer in biblical financial stewardship—joined the show today to share how Scripture reframes our assumptions about money and calls us into a deeper, more faithful way of living.

Many investors feel a real tension today. They want their portfolios to reflect biblical convictions. They care about justice, stewardship, and human dignity. Yet they’re also navigating volatility, inflation, and economic uncertainty. When markets feel unstable, the question quietly surfaces: Do I have to choose between faithfulness and financial performance? The answer may surprise you. Today, we sat down with Stella Tai, Stewardship Investing Impact and Analysis Manager at Praxis Investment Management, one of the country’s oldest faith-based mutual fund families and a valued underwriter of this program. Our conversation centered on whether values-aligned investing can truly pursue both impact and competitive returns—even in uncertain times.

J.I. Packer once wrote, “What matters in life is not what you make of it, but what God makes of it for you.” That contrast becomes especially clear when it comes to money. When circumstances shift, and uncertainty rises, the quiet question surfaces: Will there be enough? Our culture tells us peace comes through self-provision—earning more, saving more, planning better. But Scripture invites us into a different posture: resting in a Father who provides.

What if the greatest change you could make in your financial life didn’t start with budgeting, investing, or earning more—but with surrender? We don’t usually think of surrender as a financial word. Yet Scripture places it at the center of faithful stewardship. The life-changing truth that God owns everything reshapes how we live, give, and manage what we’ve been entrusted.

Over the coming decades, women will steward a majority of the wealth being passed from one generation to the next. For many, that responsibility will arrive suddenly—during seasons of grief, transition, or new beginnings. Yet within that shift lies a remarkable opportunity for wise and faithful stewardship. Sharon Epps, President of Kingdom Advisors and cofounder of Women Doing Well, joins us on today’s show to share what she has learned after spending years studying this moment and walking alongside women as they step into it.

For many girls in Uganda, one opportunity can alter the course of their entire future—and that opportunity often begins with education. Around the world, poverty creates barriers that shape a child’s path long before adulthood. But through the work of ministries and local partners, those stories are being rewritten with hope, dignity, and the love of Christ. Aaron Griggs joins the show today to share how Cross International is helping young women stay in school, discover their God-given purpose, and step into a future that once felt out of reach.

Trusting God for our financial needs feels especially real when life gets tight. When savings shrink, markets fluctuate, or expenses rise faster than income, the pressure exposes what—or who—we truly rely on. Long before budgets, retirement accounts, or emergency funds existed, one man stood on a mountain believing God could provide in the most impossible circumstances. His story in Genesis 22 gives us one of the most powerful names of God in all of Scripture: “The Lord Will Provide.” And it offers a blueprint for faithful stewardship today.

Henry Drummond once wrote, “To become like Christ is the only thing in the world worth caring for…before which every ambition of man is folly and all lower achievement vain.” Those words cut straight to the heart of how Scripture defines success. In a culture that measures achievement by accumulation and applause, Jesus offers a very different scoreboard—one centered not on what we gain, but on who we become.

“Give us this day our daily bread.” These seven words from the Lord’s Prayer are so familiar that we can easily miss how radical they are. When Jesus taught His disciples to pray in Matthew 6:11, He invited them to trust God for provision—not all at once, but one day at a time. In a world obsessed with tomorrow, this simple request calls us back to dependence, humility, and trust in God’s care today.

Younger investors are reshaping the markets—from crypto and AI to ETFs and gaming. But with so many new platforms, trends, and voices competing for attention, how can believers invest wisely across generations? Matt Bell, Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, has been tracking these shifts closely, and he joins the show today to share his insights and highlight both what’s changing and what remains timeless—especially when biblical wisdom guides our financial decisions.

Every day, we’re faced with financial decisions—some small, some life-shaping. We decide how to spend, save, give, borrow, invest, and provide for our families. But behind each of those choices lies a deeper question: where do we go to find wisdom? Many assume the Bible is a spiritual book meant only for spiritual matters, not for the realities of modern financial life. After all, Scripture was written thousands of years ago. There were no index funds, tax-advantaged accounts, or credit cards in ancient Israel. So how could it possibly speak to retirement planning, debt, generosity, or contentment today? Yet what Scripture offers isn’t a financial playbook—it’s something better: timeless wisdom rooted in the character of God.

Monks and money don’t seem to go together—but maybe they should. Early Christian monastics developed a biblical approach to possessions that offered freedom from fear and created space for generosity. Their example continues to resonate with believers navigating modern financial pressures. Dr. Shane Enete, Chair of the Finance Department at Biola University, joins the show today to help us explore what he calls “monk finances,” drawing on early Christian history to uncover insights that remain strikingly relevant today.

From ancient times to modern markets, gold and silver have captured people’s attention—especially during seasons of uncertainty. It’s one reason more believers are asking whether precious metals belong in their investment portfolios. The question isn’t simply financial; it’s also about stewardship. Where do metals fit—and where don’t they—when we’re seeking to make wise, faithful decisions with what God has entrusted to us?

What happens when we stop drifting financially and start stewarding intentionally? When God’s purposes shape our financial decisions, money takes its rightful place—not as a source of identity or security, but as a tool that brings clarity, freedom, and faithful living. That conviction is at the heart of our conversation today with Brian Holtz, CEO of Compass Financial Ministry, about an upcoming gathering designed to help believers live it out in practical ways.

Banking isn’t usually the first place we think about living out our faith. Yet for many believers, where we bank is becoming an important part of faithful stewardship. Financial institutions don’t just hold our money—they decide how it’s used, invested, and leveraged for impact. That’s why faith-based banking is gaining attention. It offers Christians an opportunity to align everyday financial decisions with deeper convictions about money, integrity, and service. Today, we sat down with Aaron Caid, Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU) and AdelFi, to talk about why believers may want to reconsider where they bank—and what truly matters when evaluating a financial institution.

Scripture reminds us that wisdom often begins with counting the cost. As the average age of a first-time homebuyer approaches 40, many people are asking an important and sincere question: Is now the right time to buy a home—or should we continue renting? That question usually reflects a desire to make a wise, lasting decision—one that supports long-term stability rather than undermining it. Before comparing monthly payments or imagining life in a new space, it’s worth taking a clear-eyed look at what it truly costs to move from renting into homeownership.

Counterfeits are dangerous precisely because they look convincing. The same is true of spiritual sayings that sound biblical but quietly distort how we think about God, stewardship, and money. Many believers can quote phrases that feel deeply spiritual—comforting even—but when placed under the light of Scripture, they don’t actually appear there at all. Or worse, they twist what Scripture truly says. These “counterfeit verses” often shape how we view success, risk, provision, and dependence on God without us even realizing it. To explore this issue, we sat down with Taylor Standridge, Production Manager of FaithFi and a regular contributor to Faithful Steward. Taylor is also the lead writer behind Look at the Sparrows and Our Ultimate Treasure.

What would you call a marriage where spouses see “eye to eye” about money? Some might call it bliss. It’s true that most couples at least occasionally quarrel about their finances. But could a better understanding of each other’s values help spouses avoid that bickering? Shaunti Feldhahn thinks so, and she joins us today to talk about it. Shaunti Feldhahn is a Harvard graduate, former Wall Street analyst, social researcher, best-selling author, and a prominent public speaker. She is the co-author of Thriving in Love and Money: 5 Game-Changing Insights about Your Relationship, Your Money, and Yourself, written with her husband, Jeff, and has co-authored several other books with him, revealing impactful truths about relationships at home and in the workplace.

The holidays are behind us; you know what that means—it’s tax season! But before you start gathering your W-2s and receipts, there’s an important question: Do you know who will prepare your taxes this year? With a nationwide shortage of Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and tax professionals, waiting too long to find a preparer could leave you scrambling—and vulnerable to scams. Here’s how to protect yourself and find a trusted tax preparer.

Faith-based investing has expanded dramatically in recent decades. What began as a niche concept—often misunderstood or difficult to implement—has grown into a global movement driven by conviction, transparency, and a renewed understanding of stewardship. Today, new tools are opening fresh doors for Christians who want their investing to reflect biblical values. Among the most discussed innovations are exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which offer investors greater flexibility and access. To explore the growing opportunity, we spoke with Brian Mumbert, President of Timothy Plan and a long-time pioneer in Faith-Based Investing.

Many Americans are wondering whether the housing market has finally begun turning a corner—or if uncertainty is still here to stay. After years of elevated mortgage rates, stubbornly low inventory, and affordability concerns, the question feels more relevant than ever. Today, mortgage expert Dale Vermillion, author of Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home, joined the show to weigh in on what the 2026 housing landscape may look like and how today’s buyers and sellers can navigate it with wisdom.

Sports betting is exploding across the country. With online platforms, mobile apps, and aggressive marketing, it’s never been easier to gamble—or easier to hide it. What many view as harmless entertainment may actually be reshaping how we think about money, community, and even discipleship. Pastor and author Kyle Worley—Lead Pastor of Mosaic Church in Richardson, Texas, co-host of the Knowing Faith podcast, and author of Home with God: Our Union with Christ—recently wrote on this growing trend for Faithful Steward magazine. Today, he joins the show to explain why the rise of sports gambling deserves more careful thought from believers.

Money and marriage—two things God designed to bless us, but they can also be two of the greatest sources of stress. What if we turned financial conflict into connection? Dr. Shane Enete joins us today to share six creative ways couples can build stronger relationships by having intentional financial conversations—what he calls “money dates.” Dr. Shane Enete is an Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University and founded the Biola Center for Financial Planning. He is also the author of the book Whole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy.

Are you looking for tools that clarify, simplify, and anchor faithful stewardship in biblical wisdom? That question has shaped our vision for the newly updated FaithFi app—a discipleship tool designed to help you build financial rhythms that bring peace, clarity, and Christ-centered focus to your money decisions. To help unpack what’s new, we sat down with Chad Clark, Chief Technology Officer at Kingdom Advisors and FaithFi. Chad has led the development of the FaithFi app since day one, shaping it into a tool that serves real families seeking to honor God with His resources.

For most of us, water is rarely something we think about. It’s as close as the kitchen sink, the refrigerator door, or the bottle beside us at work. But for millions of people around the world, clean water remains out of reach—and the consequences stretch far beyond thirst. Jesus once said, “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones… that person will certainly not lose their reward” (Matthew 10:42). On today’s episode of Faith & Finance, Aaron Griggs of Cross International shows us just how literal—and transformative—that cup of water can be.

Money has a way of making life feel complicated. Whether we’re facing major financial crossroads or simply trying to steward everyday expenses with wisdom, many of us default to figuring things out on our own. But Scripture reminds us that navigating life in isolation isn’t a sign of strength—it's often a barrier to wisdom. Proverbs 11:14 teaches that “where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Wise counsel, especially when rooted in biblical truth, protects us from blind spots, emotional decision-making, and unnecessary regret. On this episode of Faith & Finance, Sharon Epps—President of Kingdom Advisors and a familiar voice to FaithFi listeners—joins us to explore why seeking counsel is an essential part of faithful stewardship.

Jesus taught that the true measure of giving isn’t the size of the gift but the heart behind it. Generosity begins long before anything leaves our hands. It starts with what we treasure, love, and worship. Few writers explore the inner life of faith as clearly as Pierce Taylor Hibbs, senior writer at Westminster Theological Seminary and the author of more than twenty books on Christian living. In today’s episode, he joins us to invite believers to examine not just the act of giving but the spiritual forces beneath it.

Why do we give? Many Christians would answer simply: because Scripture tells us to. But if giving is only an obligation, something we do because we “should,” generosity will always feel heavy—like a tax, a duty, or a calculation. The Bible offers a far more compelling vision. It tells a story where generosity flows not from guilt or pressure, but from grace.

Most people, when asked about their biggest financial regret, will point to mistakes involving debt, missed investment opportunities, or overspending. But for today’s guest, the regret was far more surprising—and far more spiritual. Dr. Art Rainer says his greatest financial regret is not having started tracking his generosity sooner. On this episode of Faith & Finance, Dr. Art Rainer joins us to talk about how something as simple as recording our giving can strengthen our stewardship, deepen our joy, and align our financial lives more closely with Scripture. Rainer, founder of Christian Money Solutions and the Institute for Christian Financial Health, has spent years helping believers think biblically about money. But this particular practice—tracking generosity—came to him through a friend and quickly reshaped his financial priorities.

Investing doesn’t require a fortune — just a willingness to begin with what you have. That’s the message Mark Biller, Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, emphasizes as he encourages listeners to start small, stay consistent, and keep investing simply as an act of faithful stewardship.

Economic forecasters expect U.S. growth in 2026 to settle between 1.5% and 2%—sluggish, but not recessionary. Still, analysts warn that if inflation reignites or global trade pressures intensify, a mild downturn is possible. For many households, this uncertainty fuels anxiety—especially around rising health-care costs. On today’s program, Lauren Gajdek, Senior Director of External Affairs at Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), joins us to offer practical guidance for navigating health-care expenses in a slow-growth, high-uncertainty environment.

Staying on budget doesn’t have to be complicated—or exhausting. A growing number of families are discovering that a simple, five-minute weekly check-in can make the difference between feeling reactive and feeling in control. On today’s episode of Faith and Finance, Crystal Payne joins us to offer a practical rhythm for keeping your spending aligned with your priorities. Crystal is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com and the author of several bestselling books on frugal living and family budgeting. She writes extensively on financial stewardship in the latest issue of Faithful Steward magazine.

We live in a culture that stretches us to the very limits of our time, energy, and finances. Every hour gets booked, every dollar gets assigned, and before we know it, we’re operating without room to breathe. Scripture calls that lack of space folly—and the presence of space wisdom. Today, we’re talking about margin and why it’s essential to biblical stewardship.

“Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.” - Proverbs 21:20 Scripture highlights a simple principle of stewardship: wise people live with margin. They don’t spend everything they earn; they save, plan, and prepare for the future. And in our modern world, the basic tool that helps us live with margin is a budget. Today, Chad Clark joins us to discuss what budgeting really looks like for most Americans and how we can do better.

Everyone wants financial freedom. But for many of us, freedom gets defined by “more”—more income, more margin, more accumulation. The irony is that the more we chase, the less peace we often feel. The issue isn’t just mathematical. It’s spiritual. Money is one of the clearest mirrors of what we trust. And trust—not strategies or spreadsheets—is where true financial freedom begins. To explore that idea, we sat down with Ron Blue, cofounder of Kingdom Advisors and a pioneer in modern biblical financial stewardship. For more than fifty years, Ron has helped Christians think about money through the lens of Scripture, wisdom, and faithful discipleship.

Larry Burkett once observed, “The one principle that surrounds everything else is that of stewardship—that we are the managers of everything God has given us.” That’s a profound truth: God owns everything, and we’ve been entrusted to manage His resources for His purposes. But what does faithful stewardship actually look like? Today, we want to highlight seven marks of a good steward.

Markets appear strong as we head into 2026, but beneath the surface, risks may be rising faster than returns. Each January, Bob Doll, CEO and CIO of Crossmark Global Investments, joins us on the Faith and Finance show to offer an annual outlook. This year, he characterizes the environment as a “high-risk bull market”—a market capable of gains but vulnerable to setbacks and volatility.

If there’s a word that defines our age, it’s more. More upgrades. More comforts. More square footage. Yet somehow—with so much more—many of us feel less content than ever. That’s because contentment doesn’t come from what’s next. It’s shaped in the heart, right where we are.

Money touches almost every corner of our lives—and often our fears. When bills rise, when income feels uncertain, and when the future feels unclear, it’s easy to slip into anxiety and assume everything depends on us. Scripture offers a better story: one where God sees, God knows, and God provides.

Long-term care has quickly become one of the greatest financial and emotional pressures facing American families. Rising costs, longer life expectancy, and limited insurance coverage have created a situation few retirees are prepared for. On today’s episode of Faith and Finance, Harlan Accola joins us to explore this issue. He leads the reverse mortgage team at Movement Mortgage and works closely with families navigating long-term care decisions.

Kids are always watching—especially when it comes to money. Every purchase, every act of generosity, and every expression of contentment quietly shapes how children learn to view God’s provision. To help us think more clearly about this, John Cortines joins us today on Faith and Finance. John serves as Director of Partnerships and Growth at the McClellan Foundation and is a longtime contributor to FaithFi. Through his writing and teaching, he helps families see how God’s Word speaks into every part of life—including how we disciple our children through everyday financial decisions.

Spending decisions aren’t just financial—they reveal what, and whom, we value. That was the central insight Dr. Kelly Rush shared in today’s conversation on Faith & Finance, where she unpacked the Old Testament story of Jonah through the lens of money and stewardship. Dr. Rush, Professor of Finance and Financial Planning at Mount Vernon Nazarene University, explained that Jonah’s story isn’t only about a prophet running from God. It’s also a revealing case study in how financial choices often mirror the condition of the heart. Her core conviction is simple but challenging: every spending decision is a spiritual decision.

Money has a way of reaching places in our lives that nothing else does. It touches our fears, our desires, our relationships, and our sense of security. That’s why Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). Jesus wasn’t merely offering financial advice—He was revealing something deeply spiritual. Money issues are rarely just about money. They are heart issues. Our financial lives quietly expose what we trust, what we desire, and what we believe will ultimately take care of us.

It’s only day two of the new year. How are those resolutions holding up? Every January, many of us recommit to eating better, exercising more, or finally getting our finances on track. And yet, most resolutions fade long before winter does. The issue usually isn’t a lack of desire—it’s a lack of accountability and perspective. That’s especially true when it comes to budgeting. Managing money well requires more than good intentions. It requires clarity about why we’re doing it and a system that supports us day by day. To explore that idea, we sat down with Chad Clark, Chief Technology Officer at FaithFi, to discuss what actually helps people follow through on their financial goals.

Every January, millions of people set fresh goals: eat healthier, exercise more, or get their finances in better shape. These are good and worthy aims. Yet studies consistently show that most resolutions fade within a few weeks. So if this is the year you want to steward money more wisely—get out of debt, save consistently, or live with greater margin—what actually helps habits last beyond January? The answer isn’t more motivation. It’s a better foundation.

A new year often inspires fresh resolve. We plan more carefully, set ambitious goals, and commit to making this time different. But year after year, many resolutions quietly fade—not because people lack sincerity, but because most change efforts rely on willpower alone. That’s where a deeper, more biblical approach to change comes in. Today on Faith & Finance, I sat down with Taylor Standridge, Production Manager at FaithFi and lead writer of Our Ultimate Treasure and Look at the Sparrows, to explore why so many resolutions fail—and what Scripture reveals about change that truly lasts.

As we step into a new year, one question guides everything we do: How can we better serve believers who want to manage God’s money, God’s way? At FaithFi, that question has shaped a season of prayer, growth, and fresh vision. Today on Faith & Finance, we sat down with Afton Phillips, our Head of Content, to talk about what God has been doing—and where He’s leading us next. What follows is a look at the remarkable momentum of the past year and the exciting resources coming in the year ahead.

Missionary martyr Jim Elliot famously wrote, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” Those words capture a vision of life that values eternal reward over temporary success—and they’re being lived out today in an unexpected place: the NFL. When many people think of professional athletes, generosity may not be the first word that comes to mind. But Kirk Cousins, a 4-time Pro Bowl quarterback, is quietly challenging that assumption. For Cousins, faith isn’t a compartment—it’s the lens through which he approaches football, finances, family, and the future.

High-yield savings rates have dipped slightly since early spring, but they remain strong enough that choosing the right account right now can still be a wise move. After several quarter-point interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, savings yields have eased—but not disappeared. In fact, many online banks continue to offer returns well above those of most brick-and-mortar institutions. Understanding what’s happening—and how to respond—can help you steward your cash with wisdom and confidence.

Every Christmas season, A Christmas Carol returns to our screens and pages as a story of generosity, redemption, and hope. But beneath the familiar narrative, Charles Dickens was also making a powerful argument—one that challenges how society views the poor, children, and human worth itself. In today’s Christmas episode of Faith & Finance, we sat down with Jerry Bowyer, our resident economist and president of Bowyer Research, to explore the deeper economic and theological message Dickens embedded in this classic tale.

The Bible contains many stories of God’s miraculous provision, but few are as rich and practical as the account of the widow’s oil in 2 Kings 4:1–7. Though only seven verses long, this passage offers profound insight into how God provides for His people—and how He invites them to participate in His provision. On today’s Faith & Finance, Sharon Epps, president of Kingdom Advisors, joined the program to unpack this story, one she often describes as a clear picture of “God’s part and our part” in stewardship.

As Christmas draws near, many of us feel the pressure to buy just one more thing—or worry the season won’t feel special unless we spend more. Tight deadlines, emotional expectations, and last-minute sales create the perfect environment for impulse spending to quietly take over. But Scripture offers a wiser, more freeing way to approach giving—one rooted in love rather than pressure.

We live in a world overflowing with stuff—and messages about stuff. Everywhere we turn, someone promises that the next purchase, upgrade, or financial milestone will finally bring joy or peace. But Scripture offers a far better—and far more freeing—vision for how believers relate to money and possessions.

As Christmas Day draws near, we often hear stories of generosity, kindness, and the spirit of giving. But perhaps no story has inspired these virtues more than the life of St. Nicholas—a real man whose faith-filled generosity continues to echo through the centuries. Long before red suits and reindeer entered the picture, Nicholas lived a quiet, Christ-centered life marked by sacrificial love. His story reminds us that the true meaning of Christmas isn’t found in what we receive, but in how we reflect the love of Jesus to others.

With college costs rising faster than inflation, many families feel cornered—scrambling for scholarships, stretching savings, or bracing for years of student loan payments. But there’s one meaningful option that often gets overlooked: military service. For students who feel led to serve, military pathways can provide full tuition, a monthly stipend, and exceptional leadership development—all while graduating debt-free. Today, we sat down with Matt Bell, Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, to explore how these programs work and who they’re best suited for. Matt brings a personal connection to this topic. One of his sons is currently attending the U.S. Air Force Academy, and his insight helped illuminate both the opportunity—and the responsibility—this path entails.

The holidays naturally inspire generosity. As Christians, we feel a heightened awareness of need—empty tables, struggling families, and financial hardship made more visible by the contrast of celebration all around us. And that impulse to give is good. But God calls us to something deeper. True, Christ-centered generosity goes beyond a one-time act of charity. It invites us to walk alongside people in ways that restore dignity, build hope, and reflect God’s heart for renewal—not just during Christmas, but throughout the year. To explore what that kind of generosity looks like in practice, we sat down with Lisa Sheltra, Director of Community Engagement at Salt & Light, a ministry committed to helping without hurting by empowering individuals rather than creating dependency.

Many retirees today feel squeezed. Rising costs, fixed incomes, and market uncertainty can make the retirement years feel more fragile than expected. Yet for many households, one of their largest assets—their home—often sits unused in their financial plan. For years, reverse mortgages carried a mixed reputation. But significant reforms over the last decade have reshaped the program, making today’s options safer, more flexible, and better aligned with thoughtful retirement planning. Today, we are joined by Harlan Accola, National Reverse Mortgage Director with Movement Mortgage, to explore how home equity can play a more intentional role in retirement.

We’re deep into December, and the window for smart year-end tax planning is closing quickly. Taxes may not be at the top of your Christmas wish list, but they are an important reminder of God’s provision—and an opportunity to honor Him through wise stewardship. As Scripture reminds us, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1). That includes the resources He’s entrusted to us. Thoughtful planning isn’t about avoiding responsibility—it’s about managing God’s gifts with intention and gratitude. Today, we sat down with Kevin Cross, a seasoned CPA who has helped countless families navigate taxes with clarity and confidence. As we approach December 31 and look ahead to 2026, here are some of the most important moves to consider.

Christmas is meant to be a season of joy—but for many of us, it becomes a whirlwind of overspending, overcommitting, and feeling overwhelmed. The good news? It doesn’t have to be that way. With a bit of planning and the right perspective, you can slow down, simplify, and savor what truly matters. Today, Crystal Payne—creator of MoneySavingMom.com—shared practical ways to simplify Christmas while keeping your heart centered on Christ. Here’s a look at her best advice for making this season more peaceful, meaningful, and budget-friendly.

Faith shapes every part of life—not only what we believe, but how we spend, save, invest, and give. Every financial decision reveals something about what we value, trust, and treasure most. That’s why conversations about money are never just about budgets or balances; they’re deeply spiritual. Today, Afton Phillips, our Head of Content at FaithFi, joins the show to talk about how our faith reshapes the way we steward God’s resources. This conversation grew out of our upcoming 21-day devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure, and the themes behind it.

As the year winds down, most of us feel the crunch of holiday travel, family gatherings, and a calendar that fills up faster than we expect. But this season also offers something incredibly valuable: a natural pause. A moment to look back, look ahead, and make sure our financial lives still reflect the things—and the people—we care about most. To help us think through this year-end reset, we sat down with Cole Pearson, President of Investment Solutions at OneAscent, a family of companies committed to helping believers invest in alignment with biblical values. Cole shares practical, hope-filled steps to set your finances on a firm footing as you head into a new year.

New tax laws are on the horizon—and they could significantly influence the way you give. The recently passed One Big, Beautiful Bill Act (often shortened to the OBBBA) introduces several changes that affect charitable givers today and in the years to come. To help unpack these shifts, we sat down with Bruce McKee, attorney and Senior Vice President of Complex Gifts at the National Christian Foundation (NCF).

When hope is tied only to a desired outcome, disappointment becomes inevitable. Katherine Wolf knows this truth more personally than most. At just 26, with a newborn in her arms and a lifetime ahead of her, she suffered a massive and unexpected stroke that changed everything. Today, through her writing, speaking, and nonprofit ministry Hope Heals, Katherine invites others into a deeper, sturdier hope—one that can withstand even the darkest valleys. On today’s show, she joins us to share her journey: how suffering reshaped her faith, her understanding of God’s goodness, and even her family’s finances.

We check the markets often—but how often do we check our hearts? Most of us approach investing with calculators, not character. Yet Scripture calls us to a deeper way. What if investing isn’t just a financial activity but a spiritual practice—one that shapes who we’re becoming? Tim McCready, Head of Global Advisory at BrightLight (part of the Eversource Wealth Advisors team), has been helping both Kingdom Advisors and FaithFi develop a theological framework for investing that aligns our portfolios—and our hearts—with God’s purposes. His recent work explores how timeless spiritual disciplines can transform how believers think about investing.

When two faith-based financial institutions come together, the goal isn’t simply to grow in size—it’s to grow in Kingdom impact. That’s precisely what’s taking place with the launch of AdelFi Christian Banking, a newly unified identity shaped by a shared mission to honor Christ and serve His people. Recently, we sat down with Aaron Caid, Chief Marketing Officer at AdelFi Christian Banking, to talk about how this merger came together, why the new name matters, and what it means for Christians who want their finances to reflect their faith.

Are you living at your best—or simply getting by? For many believers, chronic exhaustion has become a quiet norm. Yet Scripture reminds us that burnout isn’t a badge of honor. It’s a warning light. When life feels out of balance, it may be a sign we’re pushing beyond the limits God lovingly designed for our good. Today, we sat down with Carey Nieuwhof—pastor, bestselling author of At Your Best: How to Get Time, Energy, and Priorities Working in Your Favor, leadership expert, and host of the Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast, as well as the founding pastor of Connexus Church—to talk about how Christians can pursue biblical rest and renewed purpose. Carey’s insights come not from theory, but from the deepest valley of personal experience.

Giving Tuesday has become a global moment to celebrate generosity. But for believers, it can be much more than a once-a-year opportunity to give. It can become a catalyst to cultivate a lifestyle of intentional, joy-filled stewardship all year long. Today, we explore how to give with both heart and wisdom—so that our generosity reflects God’s purposes, not merely the moment. Joining the conversation is Al Mueller, founder and CEO of Excellence in Giving and former executive with Morgan Stanley and UBS.

The holidays are meant to be a season of joy, generosity, and gratitude. Yet for many families, the celebrations come with a heavy dose of financial stress—stress that lingers long after the decorations are packed away. Our desire to bless others often leads to spending more than we planned. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Recently, we sat down with Neile Simon, Certified Credit Counselor and Director of Strategic Partnerships at Christian Credit Counselors, to talk about how families can give meaningfully, stay within their means, and refocus on what Christmas is truly about.

“We love because He first loved us.” — 1 John 4:19 Those six simple words form the foundation of all Christian generosity. Every act of love, every gift we offer, every step of obedience begins with what God has already given to us. We don’t start by giving—we start by receiving. In this spirit, Sharon Epps, President of Kingdom Advisors, joined us for a meaningful conversation on the often-overlooked generosity of the women who financially supported Jesus. Their story, found in Luke 8, gives us a powerful picture of what grateful, gospel-shaped giving looks like.

Happy Thanksgiving! As you gather with family and friends today, we hope your hearts are filled with gratitude to God for His many blessings. While Thanksgiving is a treasured tradition for us, its roots stretch back more than 4 centuries. Who gathered at that first feast in 1621? Why were they there? And what exactly were they giving thanks for? Let’s take a closer look at the remarkable story of the Pilgrims—one of enduring faith, sacrifice, and God’s gracious provision.

Raising children to navigate money wisely is about far more than dollars and cents. It begins with shaping their hearts, grounding their identity in Christ, and helping them understand the true source of their worth. As parents and mentors, we all want the next generation to develop a biblical foundation for both money and identity—because the two are more connected than we often realize. Today, Brian Holtz, CEO of Compass Financial Ministry, joins us to share insights from a new resource designed to help families do exactly that. Right From the Start targets a key age group—kids 11 to 15—who are forming lifelong beliefs about God, themselves, and the world.

Most of us think of generosity as a sacrifice—something that costs us. But what if giving is actually one of the wisest, most joy-producing ways to live? When we open our hands, God not only blesses others through us—He transforms us in the process. That idea lies at the heart of Chip Ingram’s book The Genius of Generosity, and it’s why we were grateful to welcome him to the program. Chip is the founder, teaching pastor, and CEO of Living on the Edge, a discipleship ministry helping believers live like Christians every day.

One of the clearest signs that God has changed a person’s heart is generosity. Scripture makes it plain: giving isn’t merely an act—it’s a reflection of God’s own character. As believers, we give not because we have to, but because God has given richly to us. Today, we explore what the Bible says about generosity and highlight timeless wisdom from Christian voices throughout history. Their words still inspire us today to give joyfully, sacrificially, and with hearts shaped by the gospel.

Money can so easily capture our hearts. It promises security, comfort, and control—but often leaves us anxious and striving for more. Yet when we give, something remarkable happens. We’re declaring our dependence on God, not our bank accounts. Dr. Art Rainer—founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and author of Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose—joined us recently to explore how generosity becomes an act of trust that transforms our hearts and deepens our faith.

Markets rise and fall—but not all cycles tell the same story. What do those ups and downs really mean for your investments? Scripture reminds us in Ecclesiastes 3:1, “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” Just as God designed natural cycles—the sun, the tides, the seasons—financial markets also move through cycles. While less predictable, these patterns help us understand where we are in the investing journey and how to prepare wisely for what’s ahead. According to Mark Biller, Executive Editor at Sound Mind Investing (SMI), the two most common market cycles are known as bull markets (when prices rise) and bear markets (when prices fall). But within those categories lie two distinct types of trends: cyclical and secular.

It’s one of the largest transfers of wealth in human history—trillions of dollars moving from one generation to the next. But this moment isn’t just about inheritance. It’s about passing on faith, values, and a vision for generosity. To explore how younger Christians are reimagining stewardship, we spoke with Christin Fejervary, Vice President for Brand and Experience at the National Christian Foundation (NCF)—a trusted partner helping believers give wisely and joyfully.

It’s always a pleasure to welcome back Dr. Shane Enete—Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University, founder of Biola’s Financial Planning Program, and creator of The Money Storybook Bible Podcast. His creative work helps parents disciple their children in biblical stewardship by weaving financial lessons into retold Bible stories.

When Ron Blue joins us, it’s always a masterclass in biblical wisdom. He’s co-founder of Kingdom Advisors, a best-selling author, and a trusted mentor to many. Ron has spent decades helping believers apply God’s principles to every area of life and business. Today, Ron unpacks what Scripture teaches about partnerships and how faith should shape the way we enter, manage, and exit them.

It’s one of the most valuable things we have—and one of the easiest to waste. We’ve all heard the saying, “Time is money.” But if that’s true, why do we spend it so carelessly? The truth is, time is worth far more than dollars and cents—it’s the most limited resource God has given us. Learning to steward it well isn’t just good productivity advice—it’s an act of worship.

Many people say our healthcare system is broken—and maybe you’ve felt that yourself. Rising costs, denied claims, and surprise bills have left millions of Americans buried in medical debt. But there’s a better, biblical way to approach healthcare—one that has been serving Christians for more than forty years. Lauren Gajdek joins us today to tell us all about it. Lauren Gajdek is the Senior Director of External Affairs at Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

What if your investments did more than earn returns—what if they helped shape the culture for good? Today, we’ll explore how your money can not only grow but also advance God’s purposes in the world. Brian Mumbert joins us from Timothy Plan to share how faith-based investing allows believers to engage the culture with an eternal impact. Brian Mumbert is the President of Timothy Plan, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Ever wonder why money so often reveals what we truly value? Today, we’ll find out. You probably know that on Faith and Finance, Rob West is usually the one asking the questions. But today, we’re turning the tables. Afton Phillips (Head of Content at FaithFi: Faith and Finance) is here to interview Rob West about a devotional project that he has been working on—one that goes straight to the heart of our financial lives. Afton Phillips is the Head of Content at FaithFi: Faith & Finance.

Blending a family takes grace—and so does blending your finances. When couples merge families, they’re also merging priorities, habits, and sometimes, financial baggage. Ron Deal joins us today to show us that with honesty and a shared vision, what begins as a challenge can become a source of strength for blended families navigating both money and marriage. Ron Deal is a bestselling author, licensed marriage & family therapist, podcaster, and popular conference speaker who specializes in marriage enrichment and stepfamily education and is the co-author of The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning: Money Management Before and After You Blend a Family.

“If we command our wealth, we shall be rich and free. If our wealth commands us, we are poor indeed.” - Edmund Burke It’s a familiar thought: If I just had a little more money, life would be better. We’ve all been there—believing that one more raise, one more purchase, one more upgrade will finally bring contentment. But as many have discovered, that thought rarely delivers what it promises. The question “Can money buy happiness?” isn’t new, and neither is the answer. From philosophers to billionaires to biblical writers, the conclusion is the same: wealth can make life comfortable, but it cannot make life complete.

The best gift you can give yourself this season might not come wrapped in paper or tied with a bow. The holiday season—from Thanksgiving through Christmas—can be one of the most joyful times of the year, but also one of the most stressful, especially when money’s tight. What if you could celebrate the whole season without the financial regret that debt brings? The good news is—you can. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy the season, bless others, and keep peace in your heart and home.

Why do so many Christians want to give more—but feel like they can’t? Most of us want to be generous, but there are often barriers—spiritual, financial, or even emotional—that hold us back. Today, Ron Blue joins us to unpack five key reasons why Christians don’t give more, and how we can begin climbing toward greater generosity. Ron Blue is a financial teacher, author, and co-founder of Kingdom Advisors. He has helped countless Christians apply biblical wisdom to their finances and is best known for his bestselling book, Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Financial Contentment.

Do you ever feel like budgeting is impossible because your income changes from month to month? If you’re self-employed, work on commission, or depend on tips, you’re not alone. Living on a variable income can feel like riding a financial roller coaster—one month you’re doing fine, and the next, you’re wondering how to make ends meet. But the good news is that God’s Word offers wisdom that applies even in seasons of financial uncertainty.

Losing a spouse can shake every part of life—but God promises to walk with you through each next step. When loss turns life upside down, even simple financial decisions can feel overwhelming. But with God’s help—and a few practical steps forward—there is hope and healing ahead. Today, Valerie Hogan joins us to share guidance for navigating the financial journey after losing a spouse. Valerie Hogan is an attorney, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a member of Kingdom Advisors, and the co-author of Wise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More with Miriam Neff.

If you’ve ever wished your giving could be both simpler and more strategic, there’s a powerful tool worth knowing about: the donor-advised fund, or DAF for short. Generosity isn’t just about how much you give—it’s about the heart behind it. As Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 9:7, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Wise stewardship allows us to align our giving with God’s purposes, using tools that help us maximize our Kingdom impact. A donor-advised fund—when used rightly—can help you do both: give joyfully and steward resources efficiently.

What if we stopped investing like bystanders and started investing like owners and “neighbors” in the story of our finances? When you invest like an owner, our portfolios can reflect faithful stewardship and create real-world impact. Robin John joins us today to share practical ways to move from passive investing to purposeful ownership. Robin John is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at Eventide Asset Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. He’s also the author of the book, The Good Investor: How Your Work Can Confront Injustice, Love Your Neighbor, and Bring Healing to the World.

The most generous people give something money can’t buy—their time, their presence, and their love. Generosity reaches far beyond finances. It shapes hearts, strengthens families, and builds communities of grace. Today, Sharon Epps joins us to talk about the long-term impact of generous living. 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

Living simply isn’t about deprivation—it’s about freedom. And that freedom can unleash extraordinary generosity. God calls us to live with eternity in mind—not clinging to possessions but using what we have for His Kingdom. Randy Alcorn joins us today to talk about how we can loosen our grip on earthly things to open our hands to eternal impact. Randy Alcorn is the founder and director of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM) and the New York Times Bestselling author of more than 60 books, including Heaven, Money, Possessions, and Eternity, The Treasure Principle, and Giving Is the Good Life. His books have been translated into over 70 languages and have sold more than 10 million copies.

We live in a world that never seems to slow down. Deadlines, family demands, and constant notifications all compete for our attention. But what if God designed rest—not just work—as being essential to our flourishing? Today, we’re talking with Tom Nelson about the Sabbath, why it matters, and how it can transform the way we live and trust God. Dr. Tom Nelson is the President of Made to Flourish and has served as the Senior Pastor of Christ Community Church, a multi-site congregation across Kansas City, for over 30 years. He is also the author of Why Your Work Matters: How God Uses Our Everyday Vocations to Transform Us, Our Neighbors, and the World.

When you buy something, it’s a simple transaction—money goes out, and something tangible comes back in. But giving is different. Scripture tells us that when we give, we also receive—but not always in the way we expect. The return God promises isn’t measured in bank balances or possessions. It’s measured in freedom, joy, and purpose.

Did you know that over the next two decades, trillions of dollars will pass from one generation to the next? The question is—what kind of legacy will that transfer leave behind? Today, Boyd Bailey joins us to talk about how generosity is about more than dollars—it’s about discipleship, financial literacy, and passing on wisdom along with wealth. Boyd Bailey is the President of the National Christian Foundation (NCF) in Georgia, an underwriter of Faith and Finance. He is also the author of several books, including his latest, The Power of Generosity: Experiencing God's Amazing Abundance – How to Change the World Through Acts of Kindness.

Did you know your financial advisor can actually help you invest in ways that reflect your faith? Advisors do more than just help you hit financial targets—they can also guide you in making a lasting impact with your investments. Today, Josh Bean joins us to share how to start the conversation about faith-based investing. Josh Bean is the National Sales Manager for Praxis Investment Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

For many people, contentment feels just out of reach—always tied to the next raise, the next purchase, or the next season of life. Yet Scripture calls us to something deeper and more lasting: a contentment that doesn’t depend on circumstances but rests in Christ Himself.

Money and marriage—two things God designed to bless us, but they can also be two of the greatest sources of stress. What if we turned financial conflict into connection? Dr. Shane Enete joins us today to share six creative ways couples can build stronger relationships by having intentional financial conversations—what he calls “money dates.” Dr. Shane Enete is an Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University and founded the Biola Center for Financial Planning. He is also the author of the book Whole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy.

Money is never just about dollars and cents. It’s a window into our hearts, a test of our faith, and even a testimony to the world. Few people have taught that truth more faithfully than Ron Blue. Today, he’ll share lessons from his own journey—from Wall Street to biblical stewardship—and explain how our approach to finances transforms us and our relationships with others. Ron Blue is a financial teacher, author, and co-founder of Kingdom Advisors. He has helped countless Christians apply biblical wisdom to their finances and is best known for his bestselling book, Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Financial Contentment.

Gold has been surging this year—but what’s behind the rise, and what should investors keep in mind before buying in? Precious metals, such as gold and silver, have long fascinated investors, particularly in times of economic uncertainty. But are they wise investments for today? If so, how should we approach them? Mark Biller joins us today to talk about investing in precious metals. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Could a reverse mortgage be a widow’s best friend? Since women typically outlive men, many will one day carry the financial load alone. Today, Harlan Accola joins us to explain how reverse mortgages have changed and why they can offer widows stability, dignity, and confidence for the years ahead. Harlan Accola is the National Reverse Mortgage Director at Movement Mortgage, an underwriter of Faith and Finance. He is also the author of Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement.

Investing isn’t just about returns—it’s about reflecting what we truly value. Our faith is meant to guide every area of life, including how we invest. When our hearts are set on God, our investing reflects His priorities—caring for creation, serving our neighbor, and letting what we treasure shape how we steward His resources. Tim Macready joins us today to talk about a “theology of investing.” Tim Macready is Head of Global Advisory at BrightLight, a division of EverSource Wealth Advisors.

What does Scripture really say about tithing—and does it still apply to Christians today? For some, the tithe feels like a doorway to trusting God’s provision. For others, it’s a source of guilt, confusion, or even division in the church. John Cortines joins us today to help us take a fresh, biblical look at this ancient practice. John Cortines is the Director of Grantmaking at The Maclellan Foundation. He is the author of our new study on the book of Ecclesiastes, Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money, as well as the co-author of God and Money: How We Discovered True Riches at Harvard Business School and True Riches: What Jesus Really Said About Money and Your Heart.

When two faith-based credit unions unite, it’s not just about growing bigger—it’s about multiplying Kingdom impact. We’re talking about something that’s a lot more than just a merger— it’s about expanding services and supporting ministries worldwide. Aaron Caid joins us today to talk about the exciting merger of Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU) and AdelFi Credit Union. Aaron Caid is the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU), an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

When it comes to money, the issue isn’t just budgets or bank accounts—it’s identity and ownership. In Christ, we’re a new creation and God’s dwelling place, which means money is something we manage for the Owner. Today, we’ll explore what it looks like to live as God’s stewards with Dr. Derwin Gray. Dr. Derwin L. Gray is a former NFL player turned pastor, author, and speaker. He co-founded Transformation Church in South Carolina and is the author of multiple books on faith, discipleship, race, and gospel-centered unity.

When we think about financial threats, inflation, taxes, and debt are often the first that come to mind. But Scripture tells us there’s a deeper, more dangerous threat—covetousness. Left unchecked, it poisons our joy, drives us to make poor financial choices, and blinds us to God’s generosity.

“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” - 2 Timothy 1:7 When it comes to investing, wisdom means keeping emotions in check. Fear, greed, overconfidence, and regret can all derail sound decisions. Dr. Art Rainer joins us today to share four ways emotions ruin smart investing—and how you can avoid those traps. Dr. Art Rainer is the founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is a regular contributor here at Faith & Finance and the author of Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose.

Health insurance or health cost-sharing—which is the better fit for your family? With open enrollment upon us, it’s the perfect moment to explore your choices. Joining me today is Lauren Gajdek to highlight the key differences between health insurance and health cost-sharing. Lauren Gajdek is the Senior Director of External Affairs at Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Financial blunders aren’t new. Consider this: the web portal Excite once passed on buying Google for just $750,000. Today, Google’s parent company is worth over $2 trillion. That, my friends, is a legendary missed opportunity. Most of us won’t miss out on trillions, but we’ve all made financial mistakes. The good news is that God’s Word offers wisdom for recovery and direction when we stumble.

What does true generosity look like? Is it measured by the size of the gift, or is it something deeper? In Luke 21:1–4, Jesus praises a widow who gave only two small coins. At first glance, her offering seems insignificant compared to the wealthy donors around her. Yet, in Jesus’ eyes, her gift was greater than them all. Why? Because God doesn’t measure generosity by the amount—it’s the heart behind it that matters.

Women control more wealth than ever—so how do you find an advisor who listens, explains clearly, and shares your values? According to McKinsey & Company, by 2030, women are expected to control nearly two-thirds of U.S. assets—around $30 trillion. With that kind of stewardship comes both opportunity and responsibility. Today, Sharon Epps joins us to share five simple practices that women should expect from their financial advisors. 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

If you have a 401(k) or an IRA, you may not realize that proxy voting gives you a voice in the companies you own—and it can be a way to live out your faith. As stewards, we’re called to reflect our Christian values, even in how our investments influence the marketplace. But what does that look like in practice? Will Lofland joins us today to explain. Will Loftland is the Managing Director of Investments Distribution at GuideStone Funds, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. He also oversees GuideStone’s shareholder advocacy strategy and represents the firm as a participant in the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility.

Your money soundtrack—what plays on repeat in your head—will either help or hinder your financial decisions. We all know the power of overthinking—but the good news is, you can change the tune of those money soundtracks playing in your mind. Jon Acuff joins us today to show you how. Jon Acuff is a New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and podcaster who helps people overcome overthinking, change their mindsets, and achieve goals. He’s written 10 books, including Soundtracks: The Surprising Solution to Overthinking.

Have you ever noticed how so-called “unexpected expenses” always seem to show up at the worst time? The truth is, most of these costs aren’t surprises at all—we know cars will break down, homes will need repairs, and Christmas comes every year. The key is not to panic when they arrive but to prepare ahead of time. One simple tool for this is the sinking fund.

For many children, going barefoot isn’t a choice—it’s a daily struggle that puts their health, safety, and future at risk. But one pair of shoes can change that story. Today, we’ll hear how Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls is bringing hope and dignity to vulnerable children around the world. Shawn Spurrier joins us to share how God is changing lives through something as ordinary—and extraordinary—as shoes. Shawn Spurrier is the Director of Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls at Buckner International, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Israel is often in the headlines for conflict—but there’s another story you need to hear. Beyond the headlines, Israel has emerged as a global innovation hub and a rising player in international markets. Today, Brian Mumbert joins us to share why investing in Israel could be a strategic opportunity worth considering. Brian Mumbert is Vice President and Regional Sales Executive at Timothy Plan, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

When you board a plane, you trust the pilot to get you safely to your destination. Shouldn’t you be just as careful about who advises you on your financial future? Financial guidance isn’t just about numbers—it’s about trust, worldview, and values. The right advisor can help you make decisions that align with your faith and priorities.

Marriage is about becoming one—but what does that mean for your money? For many couples, the question of whether to combine bank accounts or keep them separate is one of the first major financial decisions they face. While the Bible doesn’t speak directly to checking accounts, it does give us a clear picture of what unity, trust, and stewardship look like in marriage.

Have you ever wondered what happens to your debts when you’re gone? Many assume obligations simply vanish, but the truth is more complicated. Without a plan, your loved ones could face creditors, confusion, and unnecessary heartache. Let’s explore how debt is handled after death—and the steps you can take now to protect your family.

When markets soar, investors face a subtle but dangerous temptation: trading wisdom for excitement. With headlines touting record highs and optimism running wild, it’s easy to get swept up in the momentum. But is now the time to double down—or to take a step back and exercise caution? Today, Mark Biller joins us to unpack the dangers of investing with emotion instead of wisdom. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

"Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours." - 1 Chronicles 29:11 If God owns it all, what does that mean for the way we manage money? Brian Holtz is here to unpack the Five Pillars of Financial Discipleship—principles that, when embraced by families, bring freedom and joy to their finances. Brian Holtz is the CEO of Compass Financial Ministry and the author of Financial Discipleship for Families: Intentionally Raising Faithful Children.

Charles Spurgeon once said, “Consider how precious a soul must be, when both God and the devil are after it.” The story of the Rich Young Ruler in Matthew 19 shows us just how true that is. This young man approached Jesus with a pressing question: “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?” What followed was a conversation that revealed not only his heart but also the way possessions can grip any of us more deeply than we realize.

Finding a job in today’s economy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. With interest rates remaining high and the job market slowing, this is a strategic moment to refresh your job search. By combining diligence, adaptability, and prayerful preparation, you can approach this season with confidence rooted in God’s wisdom.

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.

Some people think being rich means owning a lot of things—when in reality, being “rich” often means a lot of things owning you. The signs of wealth are all around us: luxury cars, upscale neighborhoods, designer clothes, vacation homes. But do possessions really make people rich in a way that matters?

It’s easy to forget how something as simple as a pair of shoes can change a life. But for vulnerable children around the world, shoes mean protection, dignity, and the chance to dream. Today, we’ll hear how Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls is meeting this need with the love of Christ. Shawn Spurrier joins us to share the incredible impact that is being made all around the world, one pair of shoes at a time. Shawn Spurrier is the Director of Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls at Buckner International, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Businessman and author T. Harv Eker once wrote, “Financial freedom is the ability to live the lifestyle you desire without having to work or rely on anyone else for money.” It’s tempting to think that financial independence is the ultimate goal of life—but what does the Bible say? God’s Word points us toward a far better kind of freedom. In recent years, financial independence has become a cultural ideal. People long to be self-sufficient, debt-free, and free to pursue their passions. While these desires can be wise, they also carry a subtle danger: believing we don’t need anyone—including God.

Billy Graham once said, “Tell me what you think about money, and I will tell you what you think about God, for these two are closely related.” In Jesus’ Parable of the Talents, we see that stewardship isn’t just about money—it’s about how we view God. Today, Taylor Standridge joins me to explore how our image of God influences the way we give, spend, and live. Taylor Standridge is the Production Manager here at Faith and Finance, co-author of Look at the Sparrows, our 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety, and a frequent contributor to our quarterly magazine, Faithful Steward, as well as other FaithFi studies and devotionals.

For years, the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset reduced benefits for those who had rightfully earned them. Now that those policies are gone, many are left with questions. Eddie Holland joins us to help clarify what’s changed and what it means for your retirement. Eddie Holland is a Senior Private Wealth Advisor and partner of Blue Trust in Greenville, South Carolina. He’s also a CPA, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), and a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®).

What if your portfolio could help advance justice, compassion, and human flourishing? Aligning your investments with your faith isn’t just about avoiding harm—but actively shaping the world around them for good. Stella Tai joins us to talk about how investors are putting their values to work in the marketplace. Stella Tai is the Stewardship Investing Impact and Analysis Manager for Praxis Investment Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Some things change with the times—but God’s financial principles never do. They’re not only timeless; they work in every situation, for every person, at every income level. Whether you’re barely making ends meet or managing significant wealth, the Bible’s wisdom for handling money is always right on target. Today, Ron Blue will unpack five proven principles for managing your money well. Ron Blue is a nationally recognized financial expert, co-founder of Kingdom Advisors, and author of more than 20 books on biblical money management. With decades of experience advising families and leaders, he has dedicated his life to equipping Christians to manage their resources wisely and steward them for God’s kingdom purposes.

Cutting your budget doesn’t have to mean cutting joy out of your life. With a bit of creativity and intention, you can save money while still enjoying what truly matters. Here’s how to bring more purpose—and even fun—into your spending plan.

What if your work isn’t just a job—but part of God’s bigger story for your life? For some, work is a source of stress, struggle, or simply something to endure. But what if we’re seeing it all wrong? What if God designed work to be a vital part of how we worship Him and serve others? Dr. Tom Nelson joins us today to talk about that. Dr. Tom Nelson is the President of Made to Flourish and has served as the Senior Pastor of Christ Community Church, a multi-site congregation across Kansas City, for over 30 years. He is also the author of Why Your Work Matters: How God Uses Our Everyday Vocations to Transform Us, Our Neighbors, and the World.

“One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.” —Proverbs 11:24 Scripture calls us to be both wise savers and generous givers—but holding those two together can feel like a tension. How do we avoid fear on one side and foolishness on the other? Dr. Shane Enete joins us today to show how these two principles actually go hand in hand. Dr. Shane Enete is an Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University and founded the Biola Center for Financial Planning. He is also the author of the book Whole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy.

It’s easy to believe that having more money would fix everything—that if we just had enough, life would finally feel secure, peaceful, and even meaningful. From lotteries to luxury ads, our world constantly tells us that more wealth is the goal. But Scripture invites us to ask a better question: not how much money do I have?—but why do I want it in the first place?

When it comes to our finances, we often wonder: Where does God’s provision end and our responsibility begin? Should we simply wait and trust Him—or get to work and provide for ourselves? The truth is, it’s not either-or. God calls us to both trust Him and participate in His provision. Not because He needs our help, but because He delights in working through us.

What if the greatest gift you leave your children isn’t your money, but your wisdom? As stewards, we often focus on managing God’s resources well during our lifetime—but what happens after we’re gone? How do we equip the next generation to carry on a legacy of faithful stewardship? Today, Sharon Epps joins us to talk about that. 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

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.

Gratitude is a natural response to God’s goodness—but does it show up in the way we give? Many pastors wish their congregation knew that giving isn’t just about meeting a church budget—it’s a vital part of growing as a disciple of Jesus. Today, Leo Sabo joins us to unpack three things your pastor wishes you knew about giving. Leo Sabo is the President of the Christian Stewardship Network (CSN). He has spent the last 22 years working with couples, individuals, and church leaders, helping them understand and manage their finances according to biblical principles.

“And he gathered up all the food of these seven years which occurred in the land of Egypt and put the food in the cities. He put in every city the food from the fields around it.” - Genesis 41:48 Joseph’s story isn’t just dramatic—it’s a powerful example of godly wisdom in uncertain times. His preparation during years of abundance helped an entire nation weather a famine. Today, Mark Biller joins us to explore what Joseph’s legacy teaches us about planning ahead. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

When you think about making a Kingdom impact, your checking or savings account probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But what if it should be? Most of us view our bank account as a simple holding place for our money—a safe spot until we’re ready to spend, give, or invest. However, the truth is that your money is never truly at rest. Banks utilize those deposits daily to fund loans, support business ventures, and invest in various projects. That’s standard practice. But here’s the exciting part: you can actually choose a banking institution that uses your money to support Kingdom work. Let’s unpack how your everyday banking decisions could be part of something far bigger than you imagined.

Have you ever noticed how some people light up when they give, while others treat it like just another transaction? Maybe the difference isn’t in the amount they give—but in how God designed them to give. What if discovering your God-given giving style is the key to finding joy in generosity? Today, Chris Gabriel joins us to unpack the idea of W.I.S.E. Generosity. Chris Gabriel is a philanthropic leader and financial advisor with over 30 years of experience. A Yale and Oxford graduate, he created the WISEgenerosity framework to help individuals and institutions give well. Chris leads a thriving wealth management practice and is the author of WISEgenerosity: A Guide for Purposeful and Practical Living and Giving.

Have you ever felt a quiet sense of pride after giving, like you were just a little more faithful than others? It’s a subtle temptation, but one we must take seriously. When our giving becomes a way to elevate ourselves rather than glorify God, we’ve missed the heart of generosity—and possibly much more.

Jim Elliot once wrote, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” “Generous” might not be the first word that comes to mind when you think about pro athletes, but Kirk Cousins is rewriting that playbook. The three-time Pro Bowl quarterback in the NFL is using his platform—and resources—for eternal impact. Today, we’ll hear how his faith shapes everything from football to finances. Kirk Cousins is the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons and a veteran leader in the National Football League (NFL). He previously spent six seasons with the Washington Commanders and six with the Minnesota Vikings. A four-time Pro Bowler and outspoken man of faith, he is also the cofounder of the Julie & Kirk Cousins Foundation, which supports families and youth through faith-based initiatives.

Many seniors today face significant financial strain—some even resort to borrowing to cover their basic living expenses. For retirees on a fixed income, a reverse mortgage can be a practical solution to access the equity in their home and bring much-needed stability. Harlan Accola joins us today with a message of hope for those looking for margin in their retirement years. Harlan Accola is the National Reverse Mortgage Director at Movement Mortgage, an underwriter of Faith and Finance. He is also the author of Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement.

Many student loan borrowers are falling behind again, and the impact is more than financial. A recent change in federal law has reshaped student loan repayment, and as collections ramp back up, millions are seeing their credit scores drop. If you’re feeling the weight of repayment, you’re not alone. Neile Simon joins us today with practical steps to help you regain control. Neile Simon is a Certified Credit Counselor with Christian Credit Counselors (CCC), an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

As much as we’d like to, none of us can see the future. But that hasn’t stopped us from trying. Financial advisors attempt to forecast markets, meteorologists predict the weather, and sports fans try to call the final score. But when it comes to our finances—and our faith—there’s an important distinction between wise planning and prideful presumption. So how do we tell the difference?

Have you ever used your giving to steer decisions or send a message? It might seem harmless—or even wise—to designate your gift to specific ministries or withhold it when you disagree with leadership. But when our generosity becomes a tool for control, we’ve crossed a line. In this episode, we’ll explore the subtle danger of using giving as leverage—and discover a better way rooted in surrender and trust.

“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” — Proverbs 12:15 Wise financial decisions don’t happen in a vacuum—they often require wise counsel. But how do you know if the person giving you advice shares your convictions and values? Brian Cochran joins us today to explore how biblical wisdom should shape not just our decisions, but the voices we trust. Brian Cochran is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and also serves as the Chief Stewardship Officer at John Moore Associates.

A recent survey reveals that nearly 1 in 4 Americans has no emergency savings, and more than a third had to tap into their savings just to get through the past year. Even more sobering, Bankrate reports that only 46% of U.S. adults have enough savings to cover three months of expenses, while 33% have more credit card debt than they do in emergency savings. The numbers are alarming, but they don’t have to define your future.

Have you ever felt like giving to your church is more of a burden than a joy? You're not alone. For many believers, the offering moment stirs up anxiety instead of worship. 2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Those words—not reluctantly and not under compulsion—are key. God doesn't want us giving out of guilt. He invites us to give freely, joyfully, and with a heart aligned to His mission. But guilt is a powerful motivator. Perhaps you've felt it—when the plate passes or a giving campaign is launched. Thoughts flood in: “I haven’t given enough... I’m letting God down.” That’s not generosity born of grace. That’s fear. And it contradicts the gospel.

Have you ever faced an upcoming surgery—not just anxious about the procedure itself, but also wondering how you’ll cover the cost? Imagine if someone stepped in to guide you through the process, coordinating the details and helping you navigate the expenses. Good news: that kind of support is available, and Lauren Gajdek is here to tell us all about it. Lauren Gajdek is the Senior Director of External Affairs at Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Earlier this year, FaithFi had the opportunity to sit down with Tim Tebow—Heisman Trophy winner, former NFL quarterback, and founder of the Tim Tebow Foundation. But this wasn’t a conversation about championships or accolades. Instead, it focused on the moments that most people would rather forget—the painful setbacks that God can use to shape something far greater than we could ever have imagined. Tim Tebow is a Heisman Trophy winner, former NFL quarterback, and founder of the Tim Tebow Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving vulnerable children and individuals with disabilities through initiatives such as Night to Shine, orphan care, medical outreach, anti-human trafficking efforts, and support for children with profound medical needs.

When it comes to money, most people are searching for two things: security and peace of mind. That’s understandable—life is unpredictable, expenses arise, and markets swing. But what if true peace isn’t found in your circumstances at all? Financial wisdom doesn’t start with a budget or a savings plan. It begins with trust—specifically, trusting in the Lord. Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” If you chase peace through your paycheck or portfolio, you’ll always come up short. But when Christ is your foundation, you begin to see money in a new light—not as a source of peace, but as a tool to steward.

Do you work to live…or live to work? For many, the answer is simple: “I work to make a living.” But what if there’s more to work than just earning a paycheck? Could it be that work holds deeper meaning—something essential to who we are and how we’re made? David Bahnsen joins us today to offer a perspective on work you might not have considered. David Bahnsen is the Founder, Managing Partner, and Chief Investment Officer of The Bahnsen Group, a national private wealth management firm managing over $7 billion in client assets. He is a frequent guest on CNBC, Bloomberg, Fox News, and Fox Business. He is also the author of Full Time: Work and the Meaning of Life.

How do you live a life that truly flourishes—not just financially, but in every area God cares about? Today, we’re talking about how to live with purpose, peace, and wisdom by following God’s design for life. Ron Blue joins us to unpack biblical principles that lead to flourishing, not through formulas, but through faithfulness. Ron Blue is the co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of numerous books on biblical finance, most notably "Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment."

The world constantly tells us, “You just need a little more.” But what if real peace isn’t found in having more, but in learning to need less? What comes to mind when you hear the word “wealth”? For some, it means freedom. For others, it brings anxiety and pressure. Today, Jeff Manion joins us to explore how we can cultivate contentment in a culture that always craves more. Jeff Manion is the Teaching Pastor at Ada Bible Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he has served for over 40 years. He is also the author of several books, including Satisfied: Discovering Contentment in a World of Consumption.

Mentoring often sounds like the perfect way to steward your time in retirement—until you try it and realize it’s not as intuitive as you'd hoped. For many retirees, mentoring seems like a meaningful way to invest in the next generation—a way to put their life experience to work. But what if we’ve misunderstood how mentoring fits into God’s design for this season of life? Jeff Haanen joins us with practical stories and spiritual insight to help us reframe it. Jeff Haanen is an accomplished entrepreneur and the founder of the Denver Institute for Faith & Work. He is the author of An Uncommon Guide to Retirement: Finding God’s Purpose for the Next Season of Life and Working from the Inside Out: A Brief Guide to Inner Work That Transforms Our Outer World.

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” - Proverbs 22:6 As parents, we often wonder when to begin teaching our kids about money. The simple answer? It’s never too early. In fact, a study by Purdue University found that most of our lifelong money habits are formed by the age of seven. That’s a sobering realization—but also a hopeful one. Because with intentionality and biblical wisdom, we can help our children become faithful stewards from an early age. Here’s how to begin—step by step.

“We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.” - Romans 6:6 Being born again in Christ changes a person. We’re given a new nature that fights against our old, corrupt nature. Sometimes, the evidence of this is in the area of finances. Straight ahead—a journey to faithful stewardship.

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 5:3 In the final episode of our Financial Ethics series, we’re tackling a message that promises health and wealth—but often leads to heartache: the prosperity gospel. Dr. David W. Jones joins us to unpack its dangers and point us back to a truly biblical view of blessing and provision. Dr. David W. Jones is Senior Professor of Christian Ethics at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He holds a Ph.D. in Christian Financial Ethics and is the co-author of Health, Wealth, and Happiness: How the Prosperity Gospel Overshadows the Gospel of Christ by Dr. W. Jones and Russell S. Woodbridge.

In today’s world, scarcity seems to be everywhere. Not enough money. Not enough time. Not enough security. It’s easy to live like we’re always behind, always grasping, always worried. But is that the full story? Here at FaithFi, we believe Scripture paints a different picture—one where scarcity isn’t the final word. Instead, through Christ, we’re invited to live with hope, wisdom, and trust in God’s abundant care.

“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” - Proverbs 17:22 As we wrap up our series on the temperaments and how they impact our financial decisions, we’re turning the tables a bit. Today, Kathleen Edelman—who’s been our guide through this journey—is taking the host seat to interview Rob West about the Yellow temperament. Kathleen Edelman is the author of I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication. She is certified in Biblical Studies and Christian Counseling Psychology and has spent over 30 years coaching clients in the art of effective communication.

College students may be pros at pulling off last-minute study sessions, but when it comes to finances, cramming just doesn’t cut it. Everyone often needs a budget, and for college students, that is even more crucial. Today, Dr. Kelly Rush joins us with practical budgeting advice every college student should hear. Dr. Kelly Rush is a Professor of Finance, Department Chair, and Financial Planning Program Coordinator at Mount Vernon Nazarene University in Ohio.

“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.” With those words, Warren Buffett reminded us that character and integrity matter—especially in the world of money. Now, after more than sixty years of market-shaping moves and famous one-liners, Buffett is calling it a career. Today, Matt Bell joins us to reflect on his legacy and share what timeless lessons every investor can learn from it. Matt Bell is the Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’” - Hebrews 13:5 Sports betting is more popular—and more accepted—than ever, even among Christians. But is it just harmless fun, or something more? Dr. David W. Jones returns to our financial ethics series to help us examine what Scripture says about gambling and how believers should approach it. Dr. David W. Jones is Senior Professor of Christian Ethics at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He holds a Ph.D. in Christian Financial Ethics and is the author of Every Good Thing: An Introduction to the Material World and the Common Good for Christians.

“The simple believe everything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.” — Proverbs 14:15 In an age where scams are becoming more sophisticated by the day, Scripture reminds us that discernment isn’t optional—it’s essential. As believers, protecting the resources God has entrusted to us is more than a practical concern—it’s an act of stewardship. Here’s how you can guard your finances with wisdom, not fear.

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.” - 1 Corinthians 14:33 We’re continuing our series on temperaments—how our God-given wiring shapes the way we communicate, relate to others, and make financial decisions. Kathleen Edelman is back with us, joined by Andrew Stanley, as we take a closer look at the Blue temperament and its influence on our approach to money. Kathleen Edelman is the author of I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication. She is certified in Biblical Studies and Christian Counseling Psychology and has spent over 30 years coaching clients in the art of effective communication. Andrew Stanley is a nationally touring stand-up comedian who’s been performing across the country since 2016. You can learn more at AndrewStanleyComedy.com. In this episode, he also joins us as our representative for the Blue Temperament.

Three words that can make any parent’s wallet flinch: “Back to school.” But there’s a silver lining—especially if your state has a tax-free weekend. For families gearing up for a new school year, those tax holidays can make a real difference. Today, Crystal Paine shares smart, practical ways to get prepared and save money along the way. Crystal Paine is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com and the author of The Money Saving Mom's Budget: Slash Your Spending, Pay Down Your Debt, Streamline Your Life, and Save Thousands a Year.

What if your investments could do more than grow your wealth? What if they could also fight injustice, uplift your neighbor, and even bring joy to the world? Joy probably isn’t the first word that comes to mind when you think about investing, but maybe it should be. Robin John joins us today to share how investing can be more than financial—it can be deeply spiritual. Robin John is the CEO at Eventide Asset Management, LLC. Views expressed in this podcast are intended for information purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Eventide does not provide tax, accounting, or legal advice. Eventide's values-based approach to investing may not produce desired results and could result in underperformance compared with other investments. There is no guarantee that any investment will achieve its objectives, generate positive returns, or avoid losses.

“A faithful man will abound with blessings, but whoever hastens to be rich will not go unpunished.” - Proverbs 28:20 Powerball jackpots and scratch-off tickets might seem like a shortcut to financial freedom, but should Christians be buying in? Dr. David W. Jones returns to our financial ethics series today to help us think biblically about the lottery and whether it aligns with a life of faithful stewardship. Dr. David W. Jones is Senior Professor of Christian Ethics at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He holds a Ph.D. in Christian Financial Ethics and is the author of Every Good Thing: An Introduction to the Material World and the Common Good for Christians.

In C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Aslan tells Lucy, “Things never happen the same way twice.” It’s a good reminder that life brings changes. They’re unavoidable, but how we choose to meet them is up to us. Sharon Epps joins us today with sage advice about preparing for life’s transitions. 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

“The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception.” — Proverbs 14:8 Today, we’re continuing our series on temperaments—how our God-given wiring shapes the way we communicate, relate to others, and make financial decisions. Kathleen Edelman is back with us, joined by Rachel Petty, as we take a closer look at the Green temperament and how it influences our approach to money. Kathleen Edelman is the author of I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication. She is certified in Biblical Studies and Christian Counseling Psychology and has spent over 30 years coaching clients in the art of effective communication. Rachel Petty is a valued member of Kathleen Edelman’s team and is our Green Temperament representative for this episode.

Getting fit takes willpower. Earning a degree takes determination. Reaching your career goals takes hard work. In short, success takes commitment. And the same is true when it comes to your finances. Today, we’ll explore what changes when you commit to managing money God’s way.

“He who has ears, let him hear.” – Matthew 13:9 Those were Jesus’ closing words after telling the Parable of the Sower—a story that invites us to listen carefully, not just with our ears, but with our hearts. Today, we’ll look at this story and what it reveals about the heart behind our finances, especially the warning about “the deceitfulness of riches”.

“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” - Proverbs 19:17 As Christians, we’re called to be generous, but what does that look like when someone asks for money on the street? Should we give? Is there a better way to help? Today, Dr. David W. Jones joins us to explore the ethics of giving to homeless people and how to show compassion without causing harm. Dr. David W. Jones is Senior Professor of Christian Ethics at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He holds a Ph.D. in Christian Financial Ethics and is the author of Every Good Thing: An Introduction to the Material World and the Common Good for Christians.

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 specializes in purposeful financial planning, investment management, and multi-generational legacy coaching.

“The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out.” - Proverbs 20:5 Today, we’re launching a new series on temperaments, exploring how our God-given wiring influences the way we communicate, relate to others, and make financial decisions. Kathleen Edelman and Traci Shepherd join us to explore the Red temperament and its influence on our financial decisions. Kathleen Edelman is the author of I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication. She is certified in Biblical Studies and Christian Counseling Psychology and has spent over 30 years coaching clients in the art of effective communication. Traci Shepherd is our Red Temperament representative for this episode.

“Everyone also to whom God has given wealth and possessions and the power to enjoy them, and to accept his lot and rejoice in his toil—this is the gift of God.” - Ecclesiastes 5:19 What if true joy doesn’t come from gaining more, but from gratefully receiving what God has already provided? Today, John Cortines joins us to explore what he calls the Cycle of Grateful Living—and how it transforms our approach to money and contentment. John Cortines is the Director of Grantmaking at The Maclellan Foundation. He is the author of our new study on the book of Ecclesiastes, Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money, as well as the co-author of God and Money: How We Discovered True Riches at Harvard Business School and True Riches: What Jesus Really Said About Money and Your Heart.

“If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches?” - Luke 16:11 What 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.

“Then I saw that all toil and all skill in work come from a man’s envy of his neighbor. This also is vanity and a striving after wind.” — Ecclesiastes 4:4 Ecclesiastes shows us how even good work can go wrong when driven by envy. What starts as diligence can quickly become a pursuit of status. Today, we’ll look at how chasing approval leaves us empty—and how God invites us into something much greater.

A crypto enthusiast once wrote on Reddit, “Bitcoin is like winning the lottery in slow motion.” That might be a stretch, but one thing’s clear: Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies aren’t going anywhere. Today, Mark Biller joins us to unpack how crypto is moving into the mainstream and what that means for investors trying to make wise decisions. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven…” – Ecclesiastes 3:1 God has designed life to unfold in seasons, and with each one comes new challenges, opportunities, and sometimes, new finish lines. Today, Cody Hobelmann joins us to talk about why it’s not only okay to adjust your financial finish line—it’s often the wise and faithful thing to do. Cody Hobelmann is a Certified Financial Professional (CFP®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and a Wealth Advisor at Wealth Squared. He and his brother, Kealan, founded the Finish Line Pledge and also co-host the Finish Line Podcast, where they discuss the intersection of faith, generosity, and personal finance.

Did you hear about the guy who tried to pay his taxes with a smile? Unfortunately for him, the IRS still prefers cash. All jokes aside, failing to file your taxes for several years is no small matter—but it’s not the end of the road, either. Kevin Cross joins us today with practical steps to help you get back on track. Kevin Cross is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) who has headed CPA firms in Florida and now Georgia. He has studied the tax code extensively and specializes in representing taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here I am! Send me.’” - Isaiah 6:8 The news from the Middle East can be overwhelming, but our hope in Christ calls us to take action. Today, May-Lee Melki from Heart for Lebanon joins us to share how you can help protect young women and girls facing crisis. Then it’s on to your calls at 800-525-7000. ​May-Lee Melki is a Lebanese-American advocate, legal scholar, and ministry leader dedicated to advancing justice and holistic transformation in the Middle East. She serves as the Strategic Engagement Manager at Heart for Lebanon, an underwriter of Faith and Finance.

“The wicked borrow but do not pay back, but the righteous is generous and gives.” – Psalm 37:21 When someone owes you money and doesn’t repay it, emotions can run high—frustration, hurt, and even resentment. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or fellow believer, unpaid debt can strain even the strongest relationships. So, how should we respond when repayment never comes? Let’s explore that together.

“All his days are full of sorrow, and his work is a vexation. Even in the night his heart does not rest. This also is vanity.” — Ecclesiastes 2:23 That verse from Ecclesiastes reveals a painful truth: even a productive life can feel empty when the wrong purpose drives our work. Wealth on its own doesn’t bring peace—often, it brings more pressure. But Scripture offers a better way.

What if being great with money doesn’t guarantee you’re doing great with your spouse? If you’re the “money person” in your marriage, you may think you’re doing everything right. But what if your spouse feels shut out of the process? It happens more than you think. Shaunti Feldhahn joins us today to talk about how you can avoid that disconnect or fix it if need be. Shaunti Feldhahn is a Harvard graduate, former Wall Street analyst, social researcher, best-selling author, and a prominent public speaker. She is the co-author of Thriving in Love and Money: 5 Game-Changing Insights about Your Relationship, Your Money, and Yourself, written with her husband, Jeff, and has co-authored several books with him, revealing impactful truths about relationships at home and in the workplace.

“For you know how, like a father with his children, we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.” - 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12 With Father’s Day approaching, we’re asking a deeper question: What kind of legacy are we leaving as men, as dads, and as stewards of what God has entrusted to us? Jonathan Lewis from Fathers for Fathers joins us to talk about fatherhood, faith, and the financial discipleship that shapes generations. Jonathan Lewis is a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and President of Eastport Financial Group Inc. He is also the founder of Fathers for Fathers, a faith-based organization dedicated to restoring hope, healing, and purpose in the lives of men, especially fathers.

Proverbs 16:16 says, “How much better to get wisdom than gold! To get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.” In a world that chases wealth as the ultimate goal, Scripture calls us to something better—wisdom. Because without godly wisdom, even abundance can lead us astray. Today, Jim Newheiser joins us to explore why wisdom, not money, is the true measure of success in God’s economy. Dr. James (Jim) Newheiser, Jr., is the Director of the Christian Counseling Program and Professor of Christian Counseling and Pastoral Theology at RTS Charlotte. He is also the author of several books on the subject of counseling, as well as Money: Seeking God’s Wisdom (31-Day Devotionals for Life).

Missionary Amy Carmichael once expressed a powerful truth: “You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving.” That quote reminds us that generosity isn’t just something we do—it reflects who we are in Christ. So, how do we grow into more joyful, intentional givers? Today, we’ll talk with Ron Blue about what he calls “living giving”— and how that mindset can bring real financial freedom. Ron Blue is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, most notably Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment.

“I said in my heart, ‘Come now, I will test you with pleasure; enjoy yourself.’ But behold, this also was vanity.” — Ecclesiastes 2:1 What happens when someone has the power to indulge in every pleasure the world can offer? In Ecclesiastes, we find one of Scripture’s boldest experiments: a search for lasting joy through earthly delights. The Preacher—often thought to be Solomon—pursues laughter, wine, work, wealth, sex, and success, all in an effort to answer one question: Can pleasure truly satisfy the human soul?

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” - 2 Corinthians 8:9 This powerful verse is often quoted when we talk about generosity, and rightly so. It shows us that generosity isn’t just a financial principle—it’s rooted in the very heart of the Gospel. Today, Dr. Nathan W. Harris joins us to explore that connection more deeply. Dr. Nathan W. Harris is the Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at The University of Mobile in Mobile, Alabama. He is also the author of A Short Guide to Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace.

Summer is here—and while kids are counting down the days until school’s out, parents and grandparents might be counting something else: the cost. The good news? Some of the best family memories don’t require a big budget. In fact, many of them are completely free. With a little creativity and intention, you can enjoy a summer that builds connection and joy without adding financial stress. Here are ten fun, meaningful, and no-cost activities to try this season.

What if I told you that giving money to good causes won’t necessarily change your heart? Many assume that if they invest their finances in the right places, their affections will follow. But what if the real issue isn’t where our money goes, but what we treasure most?

“The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception.” - Proverbs 14:8 When it comes to saving, spending, and talking about money, our God-given temperament plays a bigger role than we think. Today, Kathleen Edelman shares how understanding your wiring can lead to better financial decisions and healthier money conversations. Kathleen Edelman is the author of “I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication.” She is certified in Biblical Studies and Christian Counseling Psychology and has spent over 30 years coaching clients in the art of effective communication.

“I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and a chasing after wind.” – Ecclesiastes 1:14 Life is full of pursuits and ambitions, each one pressing for our attention. Like a collage, the individual pieces may not make sense until we step back and see the bigger picture. Today, we’re talking about the gift of perspective—and how viewing our lives through an eternal lens can change everything.

English statesman Francis Bacon once wrote, “Money is a great servant but a bad master.” If we don’t learn to manage money wisely to take control of it, it will soon master us. It’s one way or the other. Today, Bob Lotich tells us how to be the master and not the servant when it comes to money—and he makes it pretty clear, as well. Bob Lotich is a high-performance financial coach and Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®) and has been named a top-20 influencer in personal finance. His wife, Linda, and their award-winning website, SeedTime.com, as well as the SeedTime Money Podcast, have reached over 50 million people in the past decade. He is also the author of Simple Money, Rich Life: Achieve True Financial Freedom and Design a Life of Eternal Impact.

“We must have some room to breathe. We need freedom to think and permission to heal. Our relationships are being starved to death by velocity.” — Dr. Richard Swenson, The Overload Syndrome In our fast-paced, always-on world, these words ring true. We’re overloaded—physically, emotionally, mentally, and financially. But what if the antidote to our exhaustion isn’t doing more, but doing less? Today, let’s look at rest from a biblical perspective.

We all want the best for our kids, but knowing what’s truly best isn’t always easy. You’ve probably heard it—or said it yourself: “I just want my kids to have what I didn’t.” It sounds noble, but it can sometimes lead to financial trouble. Today, we’ll talk with Dr. Art Rainer about how that mindset can push parents into debt. Dr. Art Rainer is the founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is a regular contributor here at Faith & Finance and the author of Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose.

"Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." — Proverbs 15:22 When 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

Whether to buy a house or go to college are major financial decisions, but so is deciding when to take Social Security. It’s true—tens of thousands of dollars, if not more, are on the line when deciding when to start Social Security benefits. Eddie Holland joins us today to help make the decision easier. Eddie Holland is a Senior Private Wealth Advisor and partner of Blue Trust in Greenville, South Carolina. He’s also a CPA, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), and a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®).

In Romans 2:4, Paul writes, “Do you not know that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?” What a powerful reminder that even when we fail, especially when we fail, God’s grace invites us back. He doesn’t lead with condemnation, but with compassion. That truth has everything to do with our financial lives.

They say that crisis reveals character, and for a brief moment, the pandemic revealed surprising financial resilience. Many Americans experienced a rare financial reset during that season, as savings rose and debt declined. But five years later, much of that progress has unraveled. Dr. Shane Enete joins us to unpack what changed—and how believers can respond faithfully in a culture gripped by renewed financial anxiety. Dr. Shane Enete is an Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University and founded the Biola Center for Financial Planning. He is also the author of the book Whole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy.

“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless…” - Isaiah 1:17 As believers, we’re called to defend the powerless and stand up for those who can’t stand for themselves. Right now, few places need that more than Lebanon, especially for its girls and young women. Today, Jack Hibbard is with us to share compelling stories of hope—and how you can be a part of this important mission. Jack Hibbard has been a passionate advocate for Heart for Lebanon for many years and previously served on the organization’s board of directors.

“Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” — Luke 12:15 In an age of instant gratification, getting what we want has never been easier, even if we can’t afford it. But as “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) services become increasingly popular, they’re quietly reshaping our relationship with money, debt, and even contentment. Let’s explore how these programs work, why they’re spiritually and financially dangerous, and how Scripture invites us into a better way.

"So teach us to number our days, that we may get a heart of wisdom." - Psalm 90:12 If you're a few years from retirement and your savings aren’t quite where you want them, you might feel like you've run out of time. But maybe you don’t need a time machine to solve the problem. Today, Matt Bell joins us with some encouraging words about beefing up retirement savings. Matt Bell is the Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” - Matthew 25:40 Some exciting things are happening that will give you more ways to help “the least of these” in God’s Kingdom. Brian Holtz joins us today with details about how we can all have the greatest impact in helping those in need. Brian Holtz is the CEO of Compass Financial Ministry and the author of Financial Discipleship for Families: Intentionally Raising Faithful Children.

What would you do if you found something so valuable, so life-altering, that you gladly gave up everything else just to have it? That’s the image Jesus gives us in Matthew 13—two brief parables, one powerful message. They remind us of a truth that can reframe not just our faith, but our finances, especially in uncertain times.

Proverbs 4:26 reminds us, “Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.” That’s a call to intentional living—choosing wisdom over impulse, especially in how we manage our money. We often emphasize that budgeting isn’t just about numbers—it’s about aligning your resources with God’s purposes. Matt Bell, a trusted voice in biblical finance, recently wrote about the contrast between cultural and Christian approaches to budgeting. He notes that culture gives your money a script: “Make $80,000 a year. Then move into this neighborhood, drive that car, wear these clothes, eat in these restaurants, and take these vacations. Then you can give.” In this model, spending comes first and usually leads to debt. If we're lucky, we might save or give with what’s left. The result? Financial stress, shrinking savings, and a fading sense of contentment.

“Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever…” - Proverbs 27:23-24 These days, our “flocks and herds” often look like stocks and mutual funds, not sheep and cattle. But the call to wise stewardship remains. One way we do that is through proxy voting. Jerry Bowyer joins us to explain how and why it matters.  Jerry Bowyer is the President of Bowyer Research and our Resident Economist here at Faith & Finance. He is the author of The Maker Versus the Takers: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics.

Did you hear about the mortgage broker who always ate lunch alone? Yep—it turns out he was a loaner. Okay, a bit of levity to start the program today, but you know what’s serious business? Buying or selling a home. Are spring and summer still prime seasons to jump into the market? Dale Vermillion joins us for insight on today’s real estate and mortgage trends. Dale Vermillion is the author of Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home. This book covers everything you need to know about securing a mortgage—all from a biblical perspective.

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” — Matthew 6:21 That 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 on Financial Fear and Anxiety.

“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” – 2 Timothy 1:5 Mother’s Day invites us to reflect on the deep, often quiet influence of a mother’s faith. The Apostle Paul’s words to Timothy reveal that sincere faith often passes from one generation to the next through the loving guidance of mothers and grandmothers. Today, we celebrate that legacy.

“The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.” – Proverbs 22:3 That verse reminds us that wisdom means planning ahead, especially when it comes to life’s most serious emergencies. If something were to happen to you, would your family know how to manage the finances, pay the bills, or access important documents? Today, Dr. Art Rainer joins us to walk through how to create a financial emergency binder. Dr. Art Rainer is the founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is a regular contributor here at Faith & Finance and the author of Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose.

If you believe the highest goal of investing is simply to earn a high return, you may be overlooking a deeper purpose—how our money can be used for good. As investors, we’ve been given resources to manage, not just for profit, but in alignment with God’s will and values. It’s easy to see investing through a purely earthly lens, but God invites us into a much greater story. Today, Robin John joins us to explore that bigger vision. Robin John is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at Eventide Asset Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. He’s also the author of the forthcoming book, The Good Investor: How Your Work Can Confront Injustice, Love Your Neighbor, and Bring Healing to the World.

Are our efforts to help the poor always helpful, or could they sometimes do more harm than good? Today, we’ll explore how short-term missions can genuinely reflect the heart of Christ and bring lasting change, without unintentionally hurting the very people we aim to serve. Dr. Brian Fikkert joins us for that conversation. Dr. Brian Fikkert is a Professor of Economics and Community Development and the Founder and President of the Chalmers Center for Economic Development at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. He is also the co-author of the book, Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." - Isaiah 55:8-9 You don’t have to study Scripture long to realize that God’s wisdom differs sharply from what the world considers wise. John Cortines joins us today to talk about the nature of wisdom, and spoiler alert— it’s a Person, not a thing. John Cortines is the Director of Grantmaking at The Maclellan Foundation. He is the author of our new study on the book of Ecclesiastes, Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money, as well as the co-author of God and Money: How We Discovered True Riches at Harvard Business School and True Riches: What Jesus Really Said About Money and Your Heart.

"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men." - Colossians 3:23 It’s easy to assume this verse applies mainly to our working years, urging us to give our best on the job. But notice—it doesn’t come with an expiration date. Today, Jeff Haanen joins us to explore a different kind of retirement. Jeff Haanen is an entrepreneur and writer who builds companies and serves leaders committed to healing the world through their work. He is the author of An Uncommon Guide to Retirement: Finding God’s Purpose for the Next Season of Life and Working from the Inside Out: A Brief Guide to Inner Work That Transforms Our Outer World.

Larry Burkett often said that capitalism must be tempered by Christian love, compassion, and stewardship. Proponents of capitalism and free markets don’t often express that concern, just as believers in social welfare rarely count the cost. Jim Jones joins us today to talk about a new way of looking at those ideas. Jim Jones is a Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) and Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®). He is also the author of Utopia Reimagined: An Allegory of Capital and Conscience.

Exchange-traded funds, or ETFs, are rapidly growing in popularity, and for good reason. ETFs offer investors an easy, cost-efficient way to diversify their portfolios. But what are they, and what advantages do they offer over other investments? Deirdre Gibson joins us today to talk about ETFs and why you should consider putting some in your portfolio. Deirdre Gibson is a Senior National Sales Consultant and ETF Specialist for Praxis Investment Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him.” - Lamentations 3:25 We all make plans, but life doesn’t always go as expected. Missed expectations can be painful, especially when we’ve done everything “right.” But even in the waiting, God is still at work. Sharon Epps joins us today to share how we can wait with faith and walk forward with hope. 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

The Bible contains more than 2,300 verses related to money and possessions—a staggering number. But it’s not because money is the most important topic. Rather, it’s because money is one of the most accurate indicators of what’s going on in our hearts.

Summer’s not that far off, and the kids are already thinking “vacation.” Will you be ready for it? How can you make great family memories without breaking the budget? That’s always the challenge, but Crystal Paine joins us today with some great tips for a budget-friendly family vacation. Crystal Paine is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com and the author of The Money Saving Mom's Budget: Slash Your Spending, Pay Down Your Debt, Streamline Your Life, and Save Thousands a Year.

What’s the difference between a bank and a credit union? More than you might think. At first glance, banks and credit unions can seem pretty similar as they both offer valuable financial services. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find that credit unions can be a powerful partner for managing money. Aaron Caid joins us to explain why. Aaron Caid is the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Did you know there’s a way to tap into your home’s equity for tax-free cash—without having to make monthly payments? It’s true. It’s called a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage, or HECM—what many of you know as a reverse mortgage. But today’s reverse mortgage isn’t what it used to be. Harlan Accola is here to help us unpack how they work and whether one might be right for you. Harlan Accola is the National Reverse Mortgage Director at Movement Mortgage, an underwriter of Faith and Finance. He is also the author of Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement.

“Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; uphold the rights of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” - Psalm 82:3–4 As followers of Christ, we’re called to advocate for the vulnerable and protect the oppressed. One of the most urgent needs today is among girls and young women in Lebanon. May-Lee Melki joins us with a powerful story of hope and a way you can make a difference. ​May-Lee Melki is a Lebanese-American advocate, legal scholar, and ministry leader dedicated to advancing justice and holistic transformation in the Middle East. She serves as the Strategic Engagement Manager at Heart for Lebanon, an underwriter of Faith and Finance.

“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children…” - Proverbs 13:22 That verse teaches that a life of faithful stewardship will enable you to leave something of great value to your heirs. How you do it can impact future generations. Jeanne McMains joins us today to talk about “intentional inheritance.” Jeanne McMains has been a practicing attorney in estate planning, business succession, and non-profits since 1995. She currently serves as the Vice President of Gift Planning with The National Christian Foundation (NCF), where she assists families nationwide with achieving their charitable gift-planning goals.

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” - 2 Corinthians 8:9 Each year, Christians pause to remember Good Friday—the day Jesus Christ was crucified. At first glance, calling this day “good” may seem strange. After all, it marks one of the darkest, most sorrowful moments in human history. But for those who trust in Christ, Good Friday isn’t the end of the story—it’s the turning point. It’s the day God’s grace was poured out most fully and most freely.

"Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gains understanding, for her profit is better than silver, and her gain surpasses gold." - Proverbs 3:13-14 Making wise financial decisions early in life can set the stage for long-term stability and generosity. But where should students and young professionals begin? Today, Bob Doll joins us to share practical financial advice to help young adults start their careers on the right foot. 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.

In the first century B.C., the Roman historian Sallust wrote, “Prosperity tries the souls, even of the wise.” That statement still holds true today. While most people would gladly accept financial prosperity despite its pitfalls, few are as eager to embrace financial hardship. Yet both seasons—wealth and want—reveal what we believe, what we value, and ultimately, where we place our trust. When things are going well financially, it’s easy to take the credit. But self-reliance and comfort can open the door to pride and greed. As Jesus warned in Luke 12, “Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” Prosperity can dull our spiritual sensitivity. We may forget our dependence on God or assume His blessings are tied to our performance. But success isn’t always a sign of God’s approval—sometimes it’s a test.

For the past decade, U.S. stocks have stolen the spotlight. Fueled by the dominance of tech giants and ultra-low interest rates, American equities have outperformed much of the world—leaving many investors to wonder if there’s any need to look beyond U.S. borders. But history—and current market conditions—suggest it may be time to take a fresh look at foreign stocks. A recent article from Sound Mind Investing by Mark Biller outlines why international markets could be poised for a resurgence. From valuation gaps and shifting fiscal policy to global capital flows and post-COVID economic trends, several factors are aligning that could make foreign equities an important part of a well-diversified portfolio again. Let’s walk through the key highlights and insights from the article—and why this may be a wise moment to think globally in your investment strategy. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

In today’s fast-paced world of cryptocurrency booms, sports betting apps, and market volatility, it’s easy to blur the lines between investing and gambling. Some even suggest they’re essentially the same: putting money at risk in hopes of a reward. But that’s a serious oversimplification—and it misses what sets these two activities apart, not just financially but morally and biblically. Let’s examine closely how Scripture, wisdom, and faith guide us in thinking rightly about risk, wealth, and the difference between gambling and godly investing.

Israel is a nation often in the news but seldom for its potential as an investment. ​Israel is a tiny country but a powerhouse for investing opportunities, particularly in the tech sector. Brian Mumbert joins us today to examine Israel in a different light. Brian Mumbert is Vice President and Regional Sales Executive at Timothy Plan, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “You can’t out-give God.” It may initially sound like bumper-sticker theology, but the truth behind it runs deep. Though you won’t find those exact words in Scripture, the idea captures something profoundly true about God’s heart: His generosity is limitless—and it’s meant to shape our own.

Most people would say their most important relationships are with their spouse, children, or close friends. These connections are deeply meaningful and essential. But there’s one relationship that surpasses them all—your relationship with God. You might be wondering, What does my relationship with God have to do with money? That’s a fair question—and the answer is, quite a lot. While human relationships are a gift from the Lord, none carry more eternal weight than our relationship with Him. God invites us into close fellowship, and how we manage what He’s given us is part of that journey. The Bible provides three foundational truths to help us understand the significance of this relationship, especially when it comes to money.

Puritan poet Anne Bradstreet once said, “Wisdom without an inheritance is better than an inheritance without wisdom.” Every parent hopes to leave an inheritance for their children, but doing so wisely takes careful thought and prayer. Today, Ron Blue joins us to discuss the Uniqueness Principle and how it can guide parents in passing down wealth effectively. Ron Blue is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, including Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives.

“And he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.” - 2 Corinthians 5:15. Most of us view our income as God’s primary way of providing for us—and then, almost as an afterthought, we consider giving. But what if Scripture teaches the opposite? Paul David Tripp is here to flip our theology of money upside down. Paul David Tripp is the president of Paul Tripp Ministries, a pastor, best-selling author, and international conference speaker with a heart for connecting the transforming power of Jesus Christ to everyday life. He has written over thirty books and resources on Christian living, including Redeeming Money: How God Reveals and Reorients Our Hearts.

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” — Matthew 6:21 When Jesus said those words, He wasn’t just giving us a lesson on giving or saving. He was getting to the root of something much deeper: our hearts. At Faith & Finance, we often say that money touches every part of life, but the most important part is our spiritual life. Our financial decisions, priorities, and fears don’t just reflect our budgets—they reflect our beliefs, values, and, ultimately, our worship. Let’s explore how our money issues are really heart issues—and what that means for how we live and give.

“A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.” — Proverbs 10:4 At Faith and Finance, we believe the Bible offers timeless financial wisdom—and sometimes, that wisdom shows up in the form of gentle correction. Let’s face it: we all make financial missteps—some intentional, others unintentional. But every mistake is an opportunity to grow in wisdom and stewardship. If you’ve made some poor decisions with your money, don’t let Proverbs 10:4 discourage you. Instead, take heart in Proverbs 19:20:“Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.” Let’s walk through six money mistakes that can quietly erode your wealth—and how to avoid or correct them with diligence and wisdom.

"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you." – Matthew 6:33 This verse calls us to put God’s Kingdom first in every aspect of our lives—including our investments—trusting that He will provide and use our efforts to advance His purposes. Today, Will Lofland joins us to share how that’s happening right now. Will Loftland is the Managing Director of Investments Distribution at GuideStone Funds, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. He also oversees GuideStone’s shareholder advocacy strategy and represents the firm as a participant in the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility.

"Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it." — Proverbs 13:11 This verse offers a powerful lesson on financial stewardship—true and lasting wealth isn’t built through shortcuts or speculation but through steady diligence and faithful management. In today’s fast-paced world, financial success is often measured by how quickly one can accumulate wealth. Social media is filled with stories of overnight millionaires, high-risk investments, and shortcuts to riches. But is this the right approach? Let’s explore how this biblical principle plays out in real life.

"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward." – Psalm 127:3 Children are a precious gift from God—a reward and a heritage to be cherished. With the incredible joy of welcoming a newborn also comes great responsibility, especially in managing finances wisely. To help new parents navigate this season, here’s a New Baby Financial Checklist to ensure you’re covering all the essential financial bases.

“We love because He first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19 Those six words beautifully capture the foundation of our relationship with God—we can only love and give because He first gave to us. Today, Sharon Epps joins us for a fascinating discussion on the generosity of women in the Bible. 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

What do Bigfoot and credit reports have in common? They’re each the subject of many myths. We don’t know much about 8-foot furry creatures, but we can dispel some of the folklore about credit and credit reports. Neile Simon is here to help us do that today. Neile Simon is a Certified Credit Counselor with Christian Credit Counselors (CCC), an underwriter of Faith & Finance. If you've ever wondered whether closing a credit card boosts your score or if credit counseling hurts your credit, you're not alone. Let's dive into these common misconceptions and separate fact from fiction.

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 Engineering and Computer Science from MIT, and a bachelor’s degree from Caltech in Chemistry.

There’s a saying, “The best time to plant a tree is right now.” Does that logic apply to inheritances? Well, it might in some cases. In other words, is there a benefit to giving your kids an early inheritance? And how exactly would you do that? Harlan Accola joins us today to talk about how a reverse mortgage can accomplish that. Harlan Accola is the National Reverse Mortgage Director at Movement Mortgage, an underwriter of Faith and Finance. He is also the author of Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement.

"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?" - Matthew 16:26 In that verse, Jesus is speaking to His disciples, teaching them about the cost of discipleship and the value of the soul in contrast to worldly gains. The question remains: is there a spiritual cost to achieving financial success? John Rinehart joins us today to talk about it. John Rinehart is the co-founder of Gospel Patrons, an international organization dedicated to inspiring a generation of business professionals to fulfill their God-given callings. He is also the author of Gospel Patrons: People Whose Generosity Changed The World and 31 Gospel Patrons.

"His master said to him, ‘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.’” — Matthew 25:21 Those are the words every believer longs to hear. That’s why it’s important to regularly reflect on how we’re stewarding the resources God has entrusted to us. Today, Rachel McDonough joins us to share three key Scriptures and prayers to help guide us in faithful stewardship. Rachel McDonough is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and a regular Faith & Finance contributor. These passages reveal that what seems wise from a financial standpoint may sometimes be wasteful in God’s eyes, and what appears to be wasteful may, in fact, be an act of deep wisdom. True stewardship isn’t just about following formulas—it’s about surrendering our hearts to God.

Did you hear about the guy who owned last year’s top-performing funds? Yeah, it's too bad he bought them this year, though. There’s a lot of evidence to suggest that buying and holding index funds will pay off in the long run. Benji Bailey joins us today to make the case with some impressive numbers. Benji Bailey is Vice President of Investments and Senior Fixed Income Manager at Praxis Mutual Funds, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

"And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’" - Matthew 25:40 Millions of people around the world need the basic necessities of life, but even more importantly—they need the Gospel. One organization is helping them receive both. Kelly Miller joins us with an impact report. Kelly Miller is the CEO and President of Cross International, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

They say you shouldn’t sweat the small stuff, but that doesn’t mean you can ignore the big stuff, either. When it comes to finances, and especially investing, it’s important to get the big moves right. Mark Biller joins us today to go over the things that need special attention. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. Today, we’ll cover some key takeaways from Sound Mind Investing’s recent article, Getting the Big Moves Right, which explores seven critical investment decisions that can make or break your financial future.

As the saying goes, you don’t need to be wealthy to start saving—but you do need savings to build wealth. Right now, one of the best ways to grow your savings is by taking advantage of high-yield savings accounts. But how long will these elevated rates last? Let’s explore what’s driving these rates and what you can do to maximize your savings.

"If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches?" – Luke 16:11 Managing money wisely in today’s fast-paced world isn’t always easy. With so many financial demands, it’s tempting to take shortcuts—grabbing coffee on the go, eating out instead of cooking, or neglecting a budget altogether. But faithfulness in finances requires intentionality. Here’s how you can stay faithful in managing your money according to biblical principles. Before making financial decisions, seek God’s wisdom. James 1:5 reminds us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” Set aside time each week to pray over your finances and seek God’s direction.

A.W. Tozer once wrote in The Knowledge of the Holy, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” Our understanding of God influences everything—including how we handle what He has entrusted to us. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus tells a story that reveals how our perception of God directly affects our stewardship. Three servants are given different amounts of money while their master is away. Two invest what they receive and are rewarded for their faithfulness. The third, however, buries his portion out of fear. His failure wasn’t just financial—it was a failure of understanding his master’s character.

Martin Luther once said, “There is no more lovely, friendly, and charming relationship, communion, or company than a good marriage.” A strong marriage is a blessing but requires intentional effort, especially in a blended family. Today, Ron Deal and Greg Pettys join the show to discuss a valuable resource for second marriages. Ron Deal is a bestselling author, licensed marriage & family therapist, podcaster, and popular conference speaker who specializes in marriage enrichment and stepfamily education and is the co-author of The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning: Money Management Before and After You Blend a Family. Greg Pettys, CLU, ChFC, CFP, has thirty-four years of specialized experience in securities and life insurance sales and services. He is the co-author of The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning: Money Management Before and After You Blend a Family.

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven… “ -  Matthew 6:19-20 Would you like to rethink your approach to money? Six powerful principles can shift your focus from the temporal to the eternal…and best-selling author Randy Alcorn is here to talk you through them. Randy Alcorn is the founder and director of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM) and the New York Times Bestselling author of more than 60 books, including Heaven, Money, Possessions, and Eternity, The Treasure Principle, and Giving Is the Good Life. His books have been translated into over seventy languages and have sold over ten million copies.

“Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.’ You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth…” - Deuteronomy 8:17-18 This passage powerfully reminds us that God owns everything, and we are merely stewards of what He has entrusted to us for a season. Today, Cody Hobelman joins us to discuss how you can establish your first financial finish line. Cody Hobelmann is a Certified Financial Professional (CFP®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and is the Chief Business Development Officer at Turning Point Financial. He and his brother Kealan founded the Finish Line Pledge and cohost the Finish Line Podcast, where they discuss the intersection of faith, generosity, and personal finance.

Many people consider frugality to be a Christian virtue—but is it, really? We often equate frugality with good financial stewardship, but they’re not exactly the same thing. While frugality can be a wise practice, it doesn’t necessarily lead to true peace or biblical financial wisdom. Let’s explore the key differences and signs that frugality might be going too far.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17 Despite living in an era of unprecedented wealth, many individuals and families struggle to meet basic needs like food and shelter. Today, Brian Holtz joins us to discuss a new resource aimed at helping communities in need. Brian Holtz is the CEO of Compass Financial Ministry and the author of Financial Discipleship for Families: Intentionally Raising Faithful Children.

They’re not listed on stock exchanges, yet private market investing opportunities are becoming increasingly popular. So, just what are private markets? Why would you want to consider making them a part of your portfolio? And how would you go about it? Cole Pearson is here today to break it all down for us. Cole Pearson is the President of Investment Solutions at OneAscent, a family of companies seeking to help people align their investments with their Christian values. OneAscent is also an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

You might be surprised to learn that most Americans are satisfied with their healthcare insurance. But the rest are more than a little dissatisfied. A vocal minority of health insurance policyholders are frustrated with their insurers for any number of legitimate reasons. If you’re in this group, you don’t want to miss today’s show. Lauren Gajdek joins us with details about an efficient, affordable alternative to health insurance. Lauren Gajdek is the Vice President of Communications and Media at Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Paying off debt is always a smart financial move—but eliminating it before retirement is one of the best decisions you can make. With more people than ever retiring with debt, financial security in retirement is at risk. Let’s explore why carrying debt into retirement can be problematic and what you can do to avoid it.

In Matthew 6:21, Jesus says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” That teaching is true for everyone, and yet men and women have different perspectives on money. So how do wise women manage the resources God entrusts to them? Miriam Neff is here to talk about that today. Miriam Neff is the founder of Widow Connection, the author of 11 books, a counselor, a Bible teacher, and a speaker. She supports widows through sewing and bakery projects and is the co-author of Wise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More with her daughter. Her radio features New Beginnings and Starting Over Financially air nationwide.

The Puritan poet Anne Bradstreet once wrote, “Wisdom without an inheritance is better than an inheritance without wisdom.” These words are just as relevant today as they were in the 17th century, especially as we approach one of the largest wealth transfers in history. It’s estimated that Baby Boomers will pass down as much as $68 trillion to their heirs by 2030. But is the next generation prepared to manage this wealth wisely? Research suggests that many are not. Let’s explore what this historic transfer means, the potential challenges, and how families can prepare.

Albert Einstein reportedly once said, “The hardest thing in the world is to understand the income tax.” Well, if Einstein thought the U.S. tax code was mysterious, imagine how difficult it is for the rest of us. So, it’s a real blessing that Kevin Cross joins us today with some much-needed tax tips. Kevin Cross is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) who has headed CPA firms in Florida and now Georgia. He has studied the tax code extensively and specializes in representing taxpayers before the IRS.

It’s often said that wisdom may create wealth, but wealth rarely creates wisdom. What’s more valuable, wisdom or wealth? Before you answer, consider that wealth is fleeting, but wisdom is never lost. John Cortines joins us today to discuss why wisdom over wealth is always the right choice. John Cortines is the Director of Grantmaking at The Maclellan Foundation and previously served as the Chief Operations Officer at Generous Giving. He is the co-author of God and Money: How We Discovered True Riches at Harvard Business School and True Riches: What Jesus Really Said About Money and Your Heart.

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 and Anxiety.

"Do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words." – Matthew 6:7 In Matthew 6, Jesus warns against meaningless repetition in prayer. Thankfully, He doesn’t leave us wondering how to pray. Instead, He gives us the Lord’s Prayer—an example of how we should approach God with our needs. But have you ever noticed how often we overlook a key part of this prayer? The request for provision: "Give us this day our daily bread." – Matthew 6:11 This simple yet profound verse reminds us that God is our provider. He wants us to come before Him humbly, asking for what we need. And in a world where self-sufficiency is often celebrated, this truth is more important than ever.

You’re generous; you love to give. But how do you know that your giving is having a real impact? It’s great that you have a heart for giving. The next step is to make sure your giving really counts…and that’s by aligning it with God’s heart. David Wills is here today to help us do that. David Wills is President Emeritus of The National Christian Foundation (NCF). He is also the co-author of Investing in God’s Business (The “How To” of Smart Christian Giving) and numerous articles and lectures nationwide. 

"And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." — Philippians 4:19 This verse is a powerful reminder that God is our ultimate provider, no matter the economic uncertainties we face. Recently, we have seen that many have been concerned about trade tariffs and their potential impact on the economy. Today, Bob Doll joins us to explain what this means and what we can expect moving forward. Bob Doll is the CEO and CIO of Crossmark Global Investments. He regularly contributes to Faith and Finance and other media outlets like Bloomberg TV, Fox Business, and CNBC.

"Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house." - Proverbs 24:27 That verse underscores the need for planning and execution, key elements for long-term financial success. Matt Bell joins us today to discuss how to put planning and execution to work for you. Matt Bell is the Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

If you’re worried about your financial future, struggling to figure out how to pay for college, or feeling the pinch at the grocery store, you’re not alone. Financial challenges can make joy seem out of reach, but as Christians, we are called to face difficulties with a heart at peace. When financial worries—or struggles of any kind—overwhelm us, God’s Word offers wisdom and reassurance.

“Let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.” - Ephesians 5:33 Love and respect are often conveyed in the words that spouses choose to communicate. Those words can have a big impact on the marriage relationship. Kathleen Edelman joins us to discuss choosing the right words for your spouse. Kathleen Edelman is the author of “I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication.” She is certified in biblical studies and Christian Counseling Psychology and has spent over thirty years coaching clients in communication.

With financial fraud on the rise, protecting your personal and banking information has never been more important. A recent JD Power study found that nearly 29% of bank account holders experienced fraud in some form over a 12-month period. To help us navigate the best security practices, Aaron Caid shares expert advice on how to safeguard your accounts from cybercriminals. Aaron Caid is the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

"So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s." - Matthew 22:21 This statement from Jesus is one of the most profound and thought-provoking verses in the New Testament. While it is often quoted in discussions about paying taxes, it carries far deeper implications. What does this passage truly mean for us as Christ-followers today? Let’s explore its historical context and the spiritual truths that challenge us to live with a kingdom perspective.

The real estate market may be in its winter slump, but spring is just around the corner—only five weeks away! Higher interest rates have kept many home buyers and sellers off the sidelines in recent years. But could a change be on the horizon? Today, mortgage expert Dale Vermillion joins us with a market forecast and some practical advice on how to move forward. Dale Vermillion is the author of Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home. This book covers everything you need to know about securing a mortgage—all from a biblical perspective.

One book of the Bible reminds us that life is short and we should make the most of every moment. If you guessed Ecclesiastes, you’re right. This book emphasizes that our time here is fleeting, but what lies beyond is eternal. In this post, we’ll explore this profound truth and introduce a new FaithFi study on the book of Ecclesiastes—Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money.

“The purpose in a man's heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out.” - Proverbs 20:5 Man’s ultimate purpose is to glorify God, but deciding how to do that can be challenging. Sometimes, we need help from a trusted advisor. I’ll discuss that today with Rachel McDonough. Rachel McDonough is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and a regular Faith & Finance contributor.

The holidays are behind us; you know what that means—it’s tax season! But before you start gathering your W-2s and receipts, there’s an important question: Do you know who will prepare your taxes this year? With a nationwide shortage of Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and tax professionals, waiting too long to find a preparer could leave you scrambling—and vulnerable to scams. Here’s how to protect yourself and find a trusted tax preparer.

“Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor.” - Proverbs 22:9 Do you have a generous heart—one that seeks out opportunities to bless others, especially those in need? Today, Kelly Miller joins us to share a powerful way you can not only support the poor around the world but also help bring lasting transformation to their lives. Kelly Miller is the CEO and President of Cross International, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” - 3 John 1:4 In that verse, the Apostle John praises his friend Gaius and other believers for their generosity toward missionaries. As parents, we want our children to be generous toward God’s Kingdom. Dr. Art Rainer joins us today with some steps we can take to grow our kids in generosity. Dr. Art Rainer is the founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is also the author of The Money Challenge: 30 Days of Discovering God's Design for You and Your Money and the Secret Slide Money Club, a book series designed to teach young readers about God’s way of being wise with money.

You want to give generously to your church, but your non-believing spouse objects. What do you do? We occasionally get that question, and it’s a situation that must be handled with care. If you or someone you know is in that position, don’t miss today’s program, as Ron Blue is here with some sage advice. Ron Blue is the co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, most notably “Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment.”

Many of us are quick to offer help to others but struggle when it comes to asking for help ourselves. Why is that? As Christians, we are known for our generosity and willingness to assist those in need. However, when it’s our turn to seek help, we often hesitate. Let’s explore why that is—and why asking for help is not only okay but also glorifies God.

What financial lessons can we learn from a tax collector who climbed a tree? Stay tuned and find out. Of course, you know I’m talking about Zacchaeus in Luke 19. That story is filled with important teachings about money, stewardship, and generosity. Dr. Kelly Rush joins us today with some interesting observations about the life of Zacchaeus. Dr. Kelly Rush is a Professor of Finance, Department Chair, and Financial Planning Program Coordinator at Mount Vernon Nazarene University in Ohio.

“Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” - Luke 6:38 Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Plain are a reminder that we should look for ways to be generous with all aspects of our finances, including investments. Brian Mumbert is here today to share some helpful ideas. Brian Mumbert is Vice President and Regional Sales Executive at Timothy Plan, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” - Proverbs 22:3 That verse is all about how critical it is to look ahead and spot potential problems so you have more time and resources to fix them before they happen. Harlan Accola joins us today to discuss the dangers of keeping mortgage payments into our retirement years. Harlan Accola is the National Reverse Mortgage Director at Movement Mortgage, which is an underwriter of this program. He is also the author of Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement.

What would you call a marriage where spouses see “eye to eye” about money? Some might call it bliss. It’s true that most couples at least occasionally quarrel about their finances. But could a better understanding of each other’s values help spouses avoid that bickering? Shaunti Feldhahn thinks so, and she joins us today to talk about it. Shaunti Feldhahn is a Harvard graduate, former Wall Street analyst, social researcher, best-selling author, as well as a prominent public speaker. She is the co-author of Thriving in Love and Money: 5 Game-Changing Insights about Your Relationship, Your Money, and Yourself with her husband, Jeff, and has written several books with him revealing impactful truths about relationships at home and in the workplace.

Proverbs 13:22 tells us, “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children…” But while the Bible emphasizes the importance of leaving an inheritance, it doesn’t provide a step-by-step guide. That’s where careful planning and biblical wisdom come into play. Here are some principles to help you make wise decisions about your estate—particularly when it comes to real estate—and avoid unintended conflicts among your heirs.

Larry Burkett once said, “The one principle that surrounds everything else is that of stewardship; that we are the managers of everything that God has given us.” These words remind us that stewardship is not just about money or tithing—it’s about faithfully managing everything God has entrusted to us. As believers, we’re called to be stewards because God created and owns everything. Our role is to manage His resources wisely for His purposes. But how can we know if we’re fulfilling this calling? To guide our journey of faithfulness, let’s explore the seven marks of a good steward.

Sometimes, you have to travel far to learn about things close to home—like your finances. They say that “travel is broadening”—that it expands your horizons and increases your understanding of how things really work. Sharon Epps experienced that recently on the tram in the Netherlands, and today, she’ll share some financial lessons she learned along the way. 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

Major changes are likely coming for the U.S. economy. Will you be ready for them? We have a new president who’s pledged to overhaul the economy. How will that affect investors and the markets? Mark Biller joins us today with a plan for managing “anticipated disruption.” Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty." - Proverbs 21:5 That verse is often used to encourage people to avoid “get rich quick” schemes and other risky investments. However, it also conveys a message about budgeting. Dr. Shane Enete joins us today to discuss why budgeting is a form of worship. Dr. Shane Enete is an Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University and the author of the brand new book, “Whole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy.”

One of the most common questions people ask is, “How much will I need to retire?” The answer is, “It depends.” It depends on your lifestyle, needs, and one key factor: how much you’re willing and able to cut from your budget. Let’s explore how thoughtful adjustments can help you bridge the retirement income gap and make this season of life meaningful and fulfilling.

If you’re wondering what the economy will do in 2025, you don’t want to miss this program. Few major league hitters can bat .300 in a given season. Imagine hitting .700! That’s what Bob Doll does every year: forecasting economic trends. He joins us today with his ten predictions for 2025. Bob Doll is the CEO and CIO of Crossmark Global Investments. He regularly contributes to Faith and Finance and other media outlets like Bloomberg TV, Fox Business, and CNBC.

“Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.” - Proverbs 30:8 Every generation has struggled to learn contentment, and ours is certainly no different. But God’s Word provides great instruction on this tough topic. Brian Holtz helps us work through it today. Brian Holtz is the CEO of Compass Financial Ministry and the author of Financial Discipleship for Families: Intentionally Raising Faithful Children.

Losing a loved one is a time of profound grief and confusion, and the practical tasks that follow can feel overwhelming. Settling a loved one’s estate requires careful attention and preparation. Let’s walk through six financial steps to take during this challenging time, all underpinned by prayer and reliance on God’s guidance.

When the topic of generosity comes up in church, reactions can be mixed. Some tune out, assuming the message is about funding a project or filling a financial gap. But generosity is about much more than meeting needs—it’s about the heart behind the act. Let’s explore not only why we should give but also why we shouldn’t and how to cultivate a heart for biblical generosity.

Do you dream of being financially free but are unsure where to start? Knowing what to do and actually doing it are two very different things. Today, we’ll share the steps to achieve financial freedom, but the decision to take action is yours. Like most worthwhile goals, it starts with the desire and determination to make it happen.

“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” - Proverbs 12:15 It’s good to learn from your mistakes, but it’s even better to learn from someone else’s. Rachel Wong joins us today with three big financial mistakes that young adults often make…so you can avoid them. Rachel Wong is an Accredited Financial Counselor® and the creator of Open Hands Finance: a biblically-based content curriculum that teaches money skills to emerging adults.

At this time of year, many people hate going to the mailbox or checking their email. That’s because the Christmas bills are starting to roll in. Yes, the holidays are behind us, but for many people, burgeoning credit card balances are just ahead. If you think you’ll have trouble making those payments, Neile Simon is here with a plan to help you get out of debt. Neile Simon is a Certified Credit Counselor with Christian Credit Counselors (CCC), an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.” - Proverbs 21:20 God’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.

What if everything you own isn’t really yours? It’s a biblical truth that changes everything once you grasp it. The belief that God owns it all has profound implications for how we manage our resources—and our lives. Let’s explore what it means to be a faithful steward of everything God has entrusted to us.

Money and relationships are a tricky combination. When a family member or close friend asks to borrow money, it can put you in a difficult spot. On the one hand, you want to help someone you care about, but on the other, lending money can easily lead to strained relationships or hurt feelings.

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it." - 1 Corinthians 9:24 The apostle Paul exhorted the early church at Corinth to run in such a way as to win the prize, but sometimes, with finances, it feels like we’re in a race with no end! Today, Rachel McDonough joins us to talk about setting financial finish lines. Rachel McDonough is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and a regular Faith & Finance contributor.

Did you know that anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the U.S. today? You might assume that we have a major anxiety problem just by the number of commercials you see for new medicines to treat these disorders, but is anxiety really a new thing?

Some people learn from the mistakes of others. Unfortunately, some people have to be the others. Well, you certainly don’t want to be one of the “others” who have to learn things the hard way by making mistakes. Today, we’ll talk to Ron Blue about some of the biggest financial mistakes you want to avoid. Ron Blue is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, most notably “Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment.”

"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 3:17 God 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.

The world is becoming more complex every day. Technology solves problems and creates new ones. How do you keep up? Among so many other things today, maybe you’ve noticed that managing your finances is increasingly complicated and involves more than balancing a checkbook. Sharon Epps joins us today with some much-needed advice—the 5 Ds of a Financial Reset. 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

You have to be at least 62 to collect Social Security…maybe because it takes that long to understand the program. Do you have questions about Social Security? Of course, you do. Who doesn’t? Well, you don’t want to miss today’s program. Eddie Holland is back to answer more of your questions about Social Security. Eddie Holland is a Senior Private Wealth Advisor and partner of Blue Trust in Greenville, South Carolina. He’s also a CPA, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), and a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®).

Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol is a timeless tale cherished for its powerful story of transformation. Yet beneath its heartwarming narrative lies a deeper commentary on economics, generosity, and faith—one that challenges the worldview of scarcity and embraces God’s abundance. Today, Jerry Bowyer will dive into the philosophical and theological themes within the story and help us discover what we can learn from Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey. Jerry Bowyer is the President of Bowyer Research and our Resident Economist here at Faith & Finance. He is the author of “The Maker Versus the Takers: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics.”

“And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” - Luke 2:10 As Christians living in a materialistic society…we must remember to celebrate for the right reason…the birth of our Savior. Howard Dayton joins us to talk about that. Howard Dayton is the founder of Compass Financial Ministry and the former host of this program. He is also the author of several books on Christian Finance and Stewardship.

Beauty matters to painters, musicians, and photographers, but what does it have to do with investing? The creation account suggests that beauty is also at the core of faithful stewardship and investing. Today, we’ll discuss “Investing in Beautiful” with Jason Myhre of the Eventide Center for Faith & Investing. Jason Myhre is the Executive Director of the Eventide Center for Faith & Investing, an educational initiative of Eventide Asset Management, and an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

One of my favorite passages in the Bible is found in Luke 12:16-21, the Parable of the Rich Fool. While most of us don’t have barns today, Jesus’ warning about storing up earthly treasures is just as relevant now as it was then. So, what does it mean to be “rich toward God,” and why does it matter? Let’s dive into this powerful lesson.

As Christmas draws near, stories of generosity and the spirit of giving abound. Few stories, however, embody these virtues more powerfully than the life of Saint Nicholas. Behind the modern image of Santa Claus lies the legacy of a man whose life reflected the true meaning of Christmas—selfless love and sacrificial giving.

We sometimes regret the things we say, but often, words left unsaid can bother us just as much. We’ve all had the thought, “Oh, I wish I’d said this or that.” You had more to say, but for whatever reason, time ran out. Sharon Epps has some things to say about unfinished conversations today. Sharon Epps is the President of Kingdom Advisors, our parent organization. Kingdom Advisors is a group dedicated to training financial professionals to guide and advise you according to biblical principles.

British philosopher G.K. Chesterton once said, “I know as much about the future as you do, which is nothing.” Only God knows the future, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t plan for it. Mark Biller is here today to help you do that. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. Today, we’ll cover some key takeaways from Sound Mind Investing’s recent article, “Your 10 Most Important Financial Moves for 2025,” which offers over 60 actionable tips across six categories. Let’s dive into some highlights to help you plan your next year's top financial moves.

From Genesis to Revelation, generosity is a resounding theme in the Bible. The ultimate example of this is captured in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” As children of a generous God, Christians are called to reflect His generosity in their lives. Let’s explore the biblical foundation of generosity, its spiritual significance, and some timeless wisdom from godly leaders to inspire you on your journey.

They say that money is a good servant but a terrible master—especially when it comes to debt. Surveys show that taking on debt ranks near the top of the list of financial regrets. Debt can make profound changes in your life and have spiritual consequences. Sharon Epps joins us to talk about that today. Sharon Epps is the President of Kingdom Advisors, our parent organization. Kingdom Advisors is a group dedicated to training financial professionals to guide and advise you according to biblical principles.

India has one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. It’s also a world leader in…human trafficking. Human trafficking is a problem in many countries around the world, but perhaps nowhere more than in India. David Harms is here today to share some hope-filled stories about an organization that’s changing the lives of young women and children in India. David Harms has devoted nearly a decade of ministry to the work of India Partners, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. With over 35 years of experience in rescuing victims of human trafficking, India Partners continues to make a profound impact on the lives of the most vulnerable.

“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.” - Luke 2:8-14 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. Jerry Bowyer is the President of Bowyer Research and our Resident Economist here at Faith & Finance. He is the author of “The Maker Versus the Takers: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics.” You can also read his insightful columns for World News Group.

Have you started working on your New Year’s resolutions yet? Are you including your investing decisions in the mix? A New Year always gives you the chance to make improvements, especially with finances. Cole Pearson is here today to talk about starting 2025 strong with values-based investing. Cole Pearson is the President of Investment Solutions at OneAscent, a family of companies seeking to help people align their investments with their Christian values. OneAscent is also an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Hey, open enrollment ends in just a few days—have you decided on a new health insurance plan yet? If not, you might not have to. What if there was another way—a biblical solution for meeting your healthcare costs? Let’s explore medical cost sharing, a faith-based alternative to traditional health insurance that could save you hundreds of dollars a month.

In Mark 10:7, Jesus tells us, “A man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” But does “becoming one” extend to the checkbook? Should husbands and wives have joint or separate bank accounts? Let’s explore this question and see if the Bible says anything about it.

"From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked." - Luke 12:48 When the housing market collapsed in 2008, more than 10 million Americans experienced crashing home values and foreclosures. But out of that financial chaos, a new company arose with a mission to do things differently. Harlan Accola joins us today to talk about it. Harlan Accola is the National Reverse Mortgage Director at Movement Mortgage, which is an underwriter of this program. He is also the author of Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement.

“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the sinner's wealth is laid up for the righteous.” - Proverbs 13:22 God’s Word is clear that faithful stewards should leave an inheritance for future generations. That inheritance doesn’t have to be money. Passing along biblical principles such as generosity to grandkids, well, that’s priceless. Ron Blue joins us to talk about it. Ron Blue is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, including Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives.

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” - 2 Corinthians 8:9 That verse is among the most cited on the subject of generosity…and for good reason. It links generosity with the Gospel. Dr. Nathan Harris joins us to make that connection even stronger. Dr. Nathan Harris is the Vice President of Advancement at Grace College in Winona Lake, Indiana. He is also the author of A Short Guide to Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace.

Did you know that as a believer in Jesus, you already have what it takes to make wise financial decisions? The Bible tells us that Christians “have the mind of Christ.” But what does this mean for managing money and possessions? Let’s explore how adopting Jesus’ perspective can transform our financial decisions and bring us closer to God’s purpose for our lives.

In Matthew 6, Jesus tells us how we should pray and how not to… “…do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words.” Of course, Jesus then gives us the Lord’s Prayer as an example of how we should bring our needs to God. But are we skimming over part of it?

Thanksgiving is more than just a feast—it's a celebration rooted in faith, courage, and sacrifice. The Pilgrims' journey and pursuit of religious freedom have shaped American heritage and continue to inspire gratitude.

Do you find yourself trapped in a "one-day" mindset? Maybe you think, "One day, I'll be out of debt," "One day, I'll have enough," or "One day, I'll finally relax." We often tie our contentment to future circumstances, yet the Apostle Paul shows us a different way—contentment in the here and now.

“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” - Proverbs 11:14 The words of that verse apply to all areas of Christian life, including financial stewardship. According to God's financial principles, good counsel is important for managing His money wisely. Dr. Art Rainer joins us today to talk about it. Dr. Art Rainer is the founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is a regular contributor here at Faith & Finance and the author of Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose.

As Thanksgiving week reminds us of the many blessings we enjoy, it’s natural to reflect on gratitude. But does gratitude naturally lead to generosity? Leo Sabo joins us today to discuss three things your pastor wishes you knew about giving. Leo Sabo is the President of the Christian Stewardship Network (CSN), where he gets to share the incredible impact financial stewardship and generosity can have on the Church.

With mortgage rates fluctuating, now might not seem like the perfect time to buy a home, but it’s an ideal time to prepare, especially for first-time homebuyers. Movement Mortgage recently shared helpful tips on FaithFi.com for those looking to enter the housing market. Here’s a breakdown of these critical steps to set you up for a successful and financially wise home purchase.

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.

Did you hear about the guy who paid his taxes to the IRS with a smile? It didn’t work out, though—it turns out they prefer money. Well, paying taxes is certainly no laughing matter, and we don’t want to miss something that could end up costing us money. Fortunately, Kevin Cross is here today with a list of year-end tax tips you don’t want to miss. Kevin Cross is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) who has headed CPA firms in Florida and now Georgia. He has studied the tax code extensively and specializes in representing taxpayers before the IRS.

They say that winners never quit and quitters never win, but that’s not really true, is it? What if you’re trying to quit a bad habit? It’s not only okay to quit a bad habit; it’s something we should always strive to do—especially with investing. Mark Biller joins us today with a list of bad habits you should quit if you find yourself doing them. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

You’ve heard of the Great Wealth Transfer taking place as Baby Boomers pass away, but did you know that women will inherit the majority of those assets? It’s true. The Great Wealth Transfer is really horizontal, with widows inheriting most private wealth before it’s passed on to the next generation. Sharon Epps joins us today to talk about how women should prepare. Sharon Epps is the president of Kingdom Advisors, our parent organization. Kingdom Advisors is a group dedicated to training financial professionals to guide and advise you according to biblical principles.

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” - Proverbs 15:1 That verse reminds us to keep a cool head when we experience conflict or crisis in a relationship—and maybe even more…when that crisis involves the marriage relationship. Howard Dayton joins us today to talk about surviving a marriage crisis. Howard Dayton is the founder of Compass Financial Ministry and the former host of this program. He is also the author of several books on Christian Finance and Stewardship, including Money and Marriage God's Way.

Bonds are considered safe investments but also a bit boring. Is that true, though? In the investing world, all the drama, for good or ill, is in the stock market. It’s up, it’s down, you get the picture. However, bonds also have an interesting story, and Benjamin Bailey is here to tell us about it. Benjamin Bailey is Vice President of Investments and Senior Fixed Income Manager at Praxis Mutual Funds, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Christmas is six weeks away, and some folks may already be feeling the stress. The holidays should be a time of spiritual reflection and reconnection with family and friends…but too often, we lose sight of that in the quest for perfection. Crystal Paine is here to help us stay focused on the actual “reason for the season.” Crystal Paine is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com and the author of The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most.

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 Bible is full of wisdom on managing money and possessions, yet there are common beliefs about wealth that are simply unbiblical. These misconceptions can lead people away from God’s truth about finances, creating confusion and stress. Let’s examine five of these myths and explore what the Bible actually teaches.

Having an emergency fund is great, but how can you ensure it’s there when you really need it? It’s easy to set aside money for a rainy day, but what happens when we start dipping into that fund for things that aren’t actually emergencies? The Bible has much to say about wisdom and preparation, and Proverbs 21:20 offers a powerful reminder: “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours them.” This verse highlights the importance of saving rather than consuming everything we earn, urging us to be prepared for the inevitable challenges that come our way. An emergency fund is one of the most effective financial tools for navigating these moments. It provides a safeguard against unexpected expenses and helps you avoid unnecessary debt. Financial emergencies are almost a certainty in life. They can range from minor inconveniences, like a flat tire, to major setbacks, like a costly medical bill. Establishing an emergency fund reduces stress and provides a financial defense. While building wealth requires a good offense, protecting that wealth requires a strong defense, and an emergency fund is central to that strategy.

In 1897, hymn writer Johnson Oatman Jr. penned the timeless words, “Count your blessings, name them one by one,” a refrain that has encouraged generations. It reminds us of the profound role gratitude plays in the Christian life. As Thanksgiving approaches, this theme of gratitude takes on even greater significance. Let’s look closer at Oatman’s hymn and the enduring truths it holds for us.

Psalm 82:3 says, “Give justice to the poor and the orphan, uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute.” This powerful verse reminds us of our responsibility to care for those in need. Today, we turn our attention to a ministry doing just that—India Partners, which is providing hope and rescue to the oppressed in India. David Harms has devoted nearly a decade of ministry to the work of India Partners, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. With over 35 years of experience in rescuing victims of human trafficking, India Partners continues to make a profound impact on the lives of the most vulnerable.

Are you looking for a way to grow your relationship with God, and with your spouse if you’re married? If you’re willing to put in some time and effort, a great new resource will help you enhance your marital and spiritual relationships. We’re pretty excited about it, and Dr. Gary Chapman is here to explain it all. Dr. Gary Chapman is a highly sought-after speaker, counselor, and author of several books on love, communication, and personal growth. His most famous work is The 5 Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate.

“Test everything; hold fast what is good.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:21 In that verse, the Apostle Paul teaches that we should practice discernment in all things. We would include financial advice. One of the most common questions we receive is, "How can I choose a financial advisor who I can trust and who fits my financial situation?" Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to ensure you find someone reliable, especially by starting with a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA). At FaithFi, we recommend beginning your search with Kingdom Advisors. With over 1,600 CKAs, these professionals are skilled in various financial disciplines and share your Christian values. You can easily connect with one by visiting our website and clicking "Find a Professional." When selecting a financial advisor, we always recommend interviewing two or three candidates to find the best fit. In this episode, we discuss some key questions to help guide your conversations.

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”- Proverbs 22:6 God’s Word tells us that children should be taught early how to live wisely and righteously, including how to handle money. Howard Dayton is here to explain why it’s especially important to teach kids about the dangers of debt. Howard Dayton is the founder of Compass Financial Ministry and the former host of this program. He is also the author of a number of books on the topic of Christian Finance and Stewardship.

The Fed is scheduled to meet next week. Will it lower interest rates again? With one rate cut already on the books and perhaps two more coming before the end of the year…folks are wondering what effect all this will have on mortgages and home sales. Dale Vermillion joins us today to talk about it. Dale Vermillion is the author of Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home. This book covers everything you need to know about securing a mortgage—all from a biblical perspective.

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.

If you’re self-employed, a contractor, or a small business owner, you’re probably familiar with the ups and downs of variable income. In some months, your earnings may exceed your expectations, while in others, they may fall short. This makes budgeting a little more complex—but not impossible! Let’s walk through how to create a budget tailored to your fluctuating income.

There’s a saying, “Any port in a storm.” Does that apply to your savings? The economic waters seem choppy these days, so where’s a safe harbor for your savings that still gives you a return? Aaron Caid helps you plot a course for your money today. Aaron Caid is the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” - Matthew 6:24 Serving two masters is not merely an economic or social concern but is profoundly spiritual. It touches on what it means to be a follower of Christ, challenging us to examine what truly governs our lives. Taylor Standridge joins us today to talk about it. Taylor Standridge is the Production Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance and the co-author of Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety.

These days, more workers are opting to stay on the job after signing up for Social Security. The percentage of Americans over 65 who are still working has doubled since 1980. Of course, many of them also get security benefits. Eddie Holland is here to explain how working affects the monthly benefit check. Eddie Holland is a Senior Private Wealth Advisor and partner of Blue Trust in Greenville, South Carolina. He’s also a CPA, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), and a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®).

“And you shall rejoice in all the good that the Lord your God has given to you and to your house…“ - Deuteronomy 26:11 God is worthy of all the praise we can give Him, but that’s not the only reason to be grateful for His blessings. Sharon Epps is here to tell us what happens when we rejoice in God’s provision. 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

If you think there’s only one way to pay for healthcare, maybe it’s time to think outside the box of health insurance. Of course, health insurance is a great thing to have, but is it necessarily the best way to pay for healthcare costs? Lauren Gajdek joins us today to discuss medical cost sharing and how it might be a better option. Lauren Gajdek is the Vice President of Communications and Media at Christian Healthcare Ministries, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

If you bought a house in the last couple of years, you’ve probably been wondering, “When can I refinance?” The Federal Reserve has already made one interest rate cut, and more are expected before the end of the year. So when will it make sense to refinance your mortgage? If you’re considering refinancing your mortgage, it’s crucial to weigh various factors before making a decision. Movement Mortgage provides a helpful article, "Refinancing? Calculate Your Break-Even Point First!", which explains when refinancing makes sense and how to determine if it's right for you. While lower interest rates are a common reason to refinance, it’s not the only factor to consider.

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” - Ephesians 4:29 Have you ever wanted to take back words, maybe even right after saying them? We often use the phrase, “That came out wrong.” Kathleen Edelman joins us today to talk about getting communication right the first time. Kathleen Edelman is the author of “I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication.” She is certified in Biblical Studies and Christian Counseling Psychology and has spent more than 30 years coaching clients in the art of communication.

Employment scams skyrocketed last year, increasing by nearly 120%. Would you be able to spot one? The FTC routinely handles thousands of employment scam complaints each year, but that number is rising dramatically as technology makes conning job seekers easier for online thieves.

Many rules come with exceptions. Perhaps that’s nowhere more true than with financial decisions. In most situations, paying off the mortgage and becoming debt-free is the right decision, but it may not be possible for everyone. Harlan Accola joins us today to discuss “red doors” and exceptions to the rule. Harlan Accola is the National Reverse Mortgage Director at Movement Mortgage, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. He is also the author of Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement.

You’ve heard the saying, “Past performance is no guarantee of future results.” Does that apply to Federal Reserve policy? The Fed is finally cutting interest rates for the first time in four years. What does this mean for investors? You might be surprised. Mark Biller has the details. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

You’ve heard the identity theft protection ads for years, but do you really need it? Today, dozens of companies sell identity theft protection, so people obviously buy it. But what exactly are they getting, and is it really worth it?

Giving is supposed to be a source of great joy for God’s people. But sometimes, we act like it’s just another pain in our wallet. Christians are supposed to be generous, but maybe you’re having trouble getting excited about the idea. Today, we’ll point you back to the radical joy of godly generosity.

“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.” - Isaiah 1:17 Widows are often unprepared to face a range of difficulties, including grief, social isolation, and, of course, financial challenges. Valerie Hogan joins us today to discuss some ways we can help. Valerie Hogan is an attorney, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a member of Kingdom Advisors, as well as the co-author of Wise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More with Miriam Neff.

Many folks with 401ks and IRAs probably don’t think much about proxy voting…but it can be a powerful tool for the Kingdom. As investors, we have an opportunity to make our Christian values known to the companies in our portfolio. We just need to take advantage of it. Brandon Pizzurro joins us today to tell us how. Brandon Pizzurro is the President and Chief Investment Officer of GuideStone Capital Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

English statesman Francis Bacon once wrote, “Money is a great servant but a bad master.” If we don’t learn to manage money wisely to take control of it, it will soon master us. It’s one way or the other. Today, Bob Lotich tells us how to be the master and not the servant when it comes to money—and he makes it pretty clear, as well. Bob Lotich is a high-performance financial coach and Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®) and has been named a top-20 influencer in personal finance. His wife Linda and his award-winning website, SeedTime.com, and SeedTime Money Podcast have reached over 50 million people in the past decade. He is also the author of Simple Money, Rich Life: Achieve True Financial Freedom and Design a Life of Eternal Impact.

One of the enemy’s favorite tools for discouraging Christians is the question, “What if…?” Unfortunately, those “What if” questions lead right down the road to fear. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us: “for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” How many times have you worried about your finances, asking those scary “what if” questions like: “What if I lose my job?” “What if I don’t have enough money for retirement?” “What if something bad happens to me or my loved ones?” We all have these fears, often driven by uncertainties about the future. The problem with “what if” thinking is that it focuses on events that haven’t happened—and may never happen. We can’t control the future, but we often let fear about it consume us. Yet, God knows this struggle, and Jesus offers a comforting reminder in Matthew 6.

Ecclesiastes 3:13 says, “every man who eats and drinks sees good in all his labor—it is the gift of God.” The Bible calls work a gift. But if you have to work more than one job, it might not feel like it. Today, we’ll offer a few practical and spiritual insights for working multiple jobs.

When a low-income person asks your church for help, what do you do next? God is extraordinarily generous, and our churches should be, too. However, helping low-income people often requires going beyond meeting their material needs. Dr. Brian Fikkert joins us today to talk about how your church can help the poor in ways that lead to lasting change. Dr. Brian Fikkert is a Professor of Economics and Community Development and the Founder and President of the Chalmers Center for Economic Development at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. He is also the co-author of the best-selling book, “Helping Without Hurting in Church Benevolence: A Practical Guide to Walking with Low-Income People.”

Christians are generous people, as God calls us to be. That means we must also be discerning. We should always give with our hearts out of a passion for advancing God’s Kingdom, but we must also use our heads to strategically choose which organizations or causes receive our financial support. Ron Blue joins us today with some advice before you write that check. Ron Blue, co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and author of numerous books on biblical personal finance, offers valuable insights into how we can give effectively to ministries. Drawing from his book Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives, he provides a strategic approach to ensure our giving is impactful and aligned with God's work. Here are seven critical questions to consider before financially supporting a ministry.

Are you worried about a recession? Some economists say there’s still a 35% chance it could happen in 2024. People often ask, “Will we have a recession?” The answer, of course, is “Yes.” We’ll always have another recession—the real questions are, “When?” and “Are you prepared for it?” If you’re not, now’s the time to get started. With the economy showing signs of slowing down, preparing yourself financially for a potential recession is essential.

God’s Word says a husband and wife become one flesh…but it doesn’t say anything about prenups. It’s true; you won’t find “prenuptial agreement” in your concordance. So, does that mean a Christian should never have one?

So you’d like to give more, but you don’t know how? Good news! If money’s scarce, it doesn’t mean your giving has to be. Hebrews 13:16 reads: “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” It doesn’t say, “unless you’re broke.” Today, we’ll give you some ways you can give without money.

There are plenty of Christian retirement plans out there…but is retirement itself actually biblical? The answer depends on your definition of retirement. For Christians, that should be quite different from the world’s view of retirement.

“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” - Proverbs 11:14 At one time, finding someone who shared your Christian values and could give you expert financial guidance was quite a challenge. But today, a nationwide network of Christian financial professionals fills that void. Sharon Epps joins us today to explain, “What is a CKA®?" 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

The definition of synergy is two things put together, having an effect greater than the sum of the parts. Synergy can play a beneficial role in family finances. A case in point is an ABLE account working together with a special needs trust for a person with disabilities. Matt Syverson joins us today to talk about it. Matt Syverson is Managing Partner & Senior Wealth Advisor for Sound Stewardship in Overland Park, Kansas. He is also a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®).

You should have 3 to 6 months’ living expenses in your emergency fund…but what if you can’t get to that money? Does your emergency fund need an emergency fund? That would be money you actually have on hand, not in a bank. And if so, how much? Today, many of us rely heavily on debit and credit cards for everyday transactions. They’re convenient, especially with the added perks of reward points or cashback programs. But as easy as it is to swipe a card, it’s still wise to keep a small cash reserve on hand. Why? Let’s take a look.

There’s a saying…“When the wolf comes in the door, love creeps out the window.” Money problems are always listed among the top reasons couples divorce. This is all the more tragic because money problems are fixable. Rachel McDonough joins us today with a three-step approach to better money and marriage. Rachel McDonough is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and a regular Faith & Finance contributor.

Many believers would agree that churches should follow the same financial principles that God’s Word provides for individuals. But even within that agreement, there’s still plenty of room for debate. For example, should churches borrow for building and expansion projects? Borrowing for church projects can be a sensitive topic, raising important questions about finances and faith. While the Bible does not declare borrowing a sin, it does offer several warnings about its potential pitfalls. Let's explore the biblical principles and guidance for churches considering debt.

Can you name two things that don’t seem to go together—but actually do? How about freedom…and budgeting? We hear from folks all the time who feel that living on a budget cramps their style, hems them in, and makes them feel trapped. Brandon Sieben is with us today to make the case that just the opposite is true. Brandon Sieben is the Chairman of the Board at Compass Financial Ministry.

Today’s parents have better ways to save for their kids’ college than existed a generation ago. So, are you making the most of your college savings program? It’s been less than 30 years since Congress authorized the tax-advantaged 529 plans. More options soon followed. Mark Biller joins us today with the pros and cons of several college-savings programs. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

They say life insurance is like a parachute. If you don’t have it the first time, odds are you won’t need it again. While that’s a funny line, all kidding aside, life insurance is the only way most people can provide for their families if they should die. But what happens when it ends? Term life insurance is often recommended due to its simplicity and affordability. Unlike whole life insurance, it doesn’t combine investing with a death benefit, allowing you to invest separately for better financial returns. But when your term life insurance expires, what should you do? Let’s explore the four options available to you.

Student loan forgiveness is much in the news these days. It’s on. It’s off. It’s on again, maybe. What’s the lesson here? The lesson is this: Avoiding student loan debt is much easier than getting out of it. It just takes discipline. We’ll talk about that with Dr. Art Rainer today. Dr. Art Rainer is the founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is a regular contributor here at Faith & Finance and the author of “The Money Challenge for Teens: Prepare for College, Run from Debt, and Live Generously.”

“​​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 6:26 God 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 Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety.” Chad Clark is also the Executive Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance, and Taylor Standridge is the Production Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance.

All your relationships—with your spouse, family, and friends—are important but temporary. Your only eternal relationship is with God. The bonds of family and friends help us thrive in this world, but they pale in comparison to the significance of our relationship with the Lord. Today, I’ll share some practical ways you can draw closer to God.

You’ve probably heard it said that “anything worth doing is worth doing well.” Today, we’ll find out why working hard at something can pay big dividends—spiritually and financially.

You’ve saved up your downpayment and found the perfect house to buy. But have you considered closing costs? They’re really the first big expense you’ll have with home ownership. Which can you negotiate, and which are set in stone?

A recent survey shows that most parents think they should teach their kids financial literacy; the good news is that many are actually doing it. Still, other parents may not know how to teach their kids financial responsibility. Ron Blue joins us today to discuss how he and his wife, Judy, did it. Ron Blue is the co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, including “Your Kids Can Master Their Money: Fun Ways to Help Them Learn How.”

“We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.” - Romans 6:6 Being born again in Christ changes a person. We’re given a new nature that fights against our old, corrupt nature. Sometimes, the evidence of this is in the area of finances. Straight ahead—a journey to faithful stewardship.

18th Century preacher John Wesley said, "Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can." That’s how Christians can respond to God's generous and faithful love. Specifically, Jesus called his followers to do good to the poor, and we’ll talk about what that looks like for us.

Owning rental property is like ordering a pizza with anchovies. It’s not for everybody. There’s no question that renting a property can be a lucrative investment, but it’s certainly not a passive investment like owning stock. Owning rental property is attractive for many, but it’s not a perfect fit for everyone. Just like not everyone enjoys anchovies, not everyone has the temperament or resources to be a landlord. Before diving into property management, it’s essential to understand the benefits and challenges of it. Let's explore these aspects to help you decide if being a landlord is right for you.

More stress doesn’t always equal a higher salary, and if you bring home the stress along with the salary, is it really worth it? If that describes you, maybe it’s time to re-think the purpose of your work. Some statistics claim that 54% of American employees are happy with their jobs, while others claim that 83% are suffering from work-related stress.

Thanks to insurance, we don’t very often have bank, savings and loans, or credit union “runs” anymore. Aaron Caid is with us today to discuss how that came about. Aaron Caid is the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

1 John 2:15 contains a command and a warning for Christians: “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” You have a choice—to be worldly or Kingdom-minded with your finances. But beware—God’s way is definitely counter-cultural.

The world is becoming more complex every day. Technology solves problems and creates new ones. How do you keep up? Among so many other things today, maybe you’ve noticed that managing your finances is increasingly complicated and involves more than balancing a checkbook. Sharon Epps joins us today with some much-needed advice—the 5 Ds of a Financial Reset. 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

From hats in the hall closet…to bats in the belfry, we can help you save money on the basics. Today, we’ll offer you a few common-sense strategies for saving money on three basic necessities: clothing, utilities, and home maintenance.

Psychologist and educator Fitzhugh Dodson wrote, “Without goals and plans to reach them, you are like a ship that has set sail with no destination.” Of course, goals don’t amount to much unless you have a plan to reach them. That planning should involve more than building your net worth. Ron Anderson joins us today to discuss life planning— what is it, how to do it, and why you should. Ron Anderson is the Founder & President of Plan A Wealth Management in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Most of today’s renters say they’d like to buy a home, but a clear majority think they’ll never be able to afford it. It’s certainly gotten more difficult to buy a house these days, with soaring home values and interest rates. But certainly not impossible—especially if you’re prepared.

“Concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. For as were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.” - Matthew 24:36-37 Jesus made it quite clear that no one on earth knows the day or hour of His return. Yet, we’re to live as if He’s coming back tomorrow. Does that mean we don’t need to plan for the future? Matt Bell weighs in on the issue today. Matt Bell is the Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” - Philippians 2:4 We tend to think of that verse as a prescription for giving to help the poor and needy and that’s good. But is there an application that involves investing? Stella Tai joins us today to talk about how your investing can have a positive impact in the world. Stella Tai is Manager of Stewardship Investing Impact and Analysis for Praxis Mutual Funds®, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” - Ephesians 2:10 Our good works are not for our sake but for God’s sake, to give Him glory. Investing gives us a powerful way to do that. Today, we’ll talk with Dr. Finny Kuruvilla about investing to change the world. Dr. Finny Kuruvilla is the Co-Chief Investment Officer and Founding Member of Eventide Asset Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. He holds an MD from Harvard Medical School, a PhD in Chemistry and Chemical Biology from Harvard University, a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from MIT, and a bachelor’s degree from Caltech in Chemistry.

When you want pithy quotes, check out social media. When you want words of truth, look to the Bible. But be careful not to get those two mixed up. Some familiar sayings may sound like Bible verses, but they’re really not. Today, we’ll find out why so many old saws really don’t cut wood.

“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” That familiar verse from Psalm 37 begs the question: “What are the desires of my heart?” We may be so interested in getting what we desire that we forget the other side of the equation—delighting in the Lord. Today, we’ll talk about desires—and how they can either direct us or distract us.

The dictionary says integrity is “being honest and having strong moral principles.” God’s Word says, “Better is the poor who walks in his integrity…Than one perverse in his ways, though he be rich.” - Proverbs 28:6 Are you living with integrity in your financial dealings?

Getting a college degree can substantially increase your lifetime earnings, but even better is getting someone else to pay for it. I’m talking about scholarships, of course. Every year, public and private institutions dole out about $8 billion in scholarships. Are you getting any of it? I’ll talk about how you can.

If you’re drowning in debt and someone offers a lifeline, make sure it’s not really an anchor. You have a few different options for paying off debt, but they are definitely not all equal. You have debt settlement, debt consolidation, and debt management. Neile Simon joins us today to explain the difference. Neile Simon is a Certified Credit Counselor with Christian Credit Counselors (CCC), an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

The poet Ogden Nash once wrote, “Some debts are fun when you are acquiring them, but none are fun when you set about retiring them.” One thing’s for sure: getting into debt is much easier than getting out of debt, so the more you know about debt and credit, the better off you’ll be. Author Dr. Shane Enete joins us again today to discuss his take on that double-edged sword. Dr. Shane Enete is an Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University and the author of the brand new book, “Whole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy.”

A boomerang is supposed to return when it leaves your hand. But a boomerang kid, well, that’s something else entirely. Do you have a boomerang kid? That’s a term for an adult child that’s returned home, like a boomerang, and now lives with you again. If so, you’re not alone. We’ll talk about what you can do about it. You're not alone if you have a boomerang kid living in your basement. The latest Boomerang Kids Survey by Thrivent, conducted in April, found that 46% of parents have had an adult child move back in with them at some point. This trend brings unique financial challenges for both parents and children.

“Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” - Proverbs 13:11 Patience is definitely a virtue, especially when it comes to investing. But too often, we allow our emotions to rule over us. Dr. Art Rainer joins us today to discuss four ways emotions ruin smart investing. Dr. Art Rainer is the founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is a regular contributor here at Faith & Finance and the author of “Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose.”

“Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? - 2 Corinthians 6:14 That warning from the Apostle Paul is usually interpreted to mean that you shouldn’t marry outside the faith. But does it apply to other relationships just as much? Ron Blue joins us today with his practical and spiritual insights about partnerships. Ron Blue is the co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, most notably “Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment.”

“I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” - Psalm 139:14 God made each of us in His image, yet unique in our own way. We have different abilities to serve the Kingdom and different needs. For example, our healthcare needs differ. We’ll talk with Lauren Gajdek today about a great way to help you pay your individual healthcare costs. Lauren Gajdek is the Vice President of Communications and Media at Christian Healthcare Ministries, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

The late Tim Keller once said, “Just because you can’t see or imagine a good reason why God would allow something bad to happen…doesn’t mean there can’t be one.” When something bad happens to your finances, it’s tempting to wonder if God really knows what he’s doing. Well, He does! Today, we’ll find God’s comfort in the midst of financial trials. 1 Peter 5:7 reminds us of God’s love for us in the midst of life’s troubles: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” It’s a reassuring verse, but you must know the context to understand God’s comfort fully.

Home mortgage rates haven’t gone through the roof in recent weeks…that’s the good news. The bad news is that they’re already pretty high. Coupled with high home values, it’s an uphill climb for first-time home buyers. Will it get easier anytime soon? Dale Vermillion joins us today to talk about it. Dale Vermillion is the author of Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home. This book covers everything you need to know about securing a mortgage—all from a biblical perspective.

The Human Genome Project discovered amazing things about man’s makeup. What it didn’t find…was a saving gene. In my book, that means saving doesn’t come naturally—it’s a habit we have to learn…and God’s Word tells us why it’s so important.

We are so materially blessed that we take many things for granted. Can you imagine not having a simple pair of shoes to go about your day? It’s tragic. Millions of children around the world, many of them orphans, suffer the huge disadvantage of not having shoes. Shawn Spurrier joins us today to talk about a way you can help. Shawn Spurrier is the Director of Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls at Buckner International, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the sinner's wealth is laid up for the righteous.” - Proverbs 13:22 We’re all familiar with that verse, but do we fully understand its meaning? Is it only about money? I’ll talk about that with Harlan Accola today. Harlan Accola is the National Reverse Mortgage Director at Movement Mortgage, an underwriter of Faith and Finance. He is also the author of Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement.

If you have school-age children, you know that we’ve entered one of the year's busiest shopping seasons. It’s true—families are gearing up to send kids back to school, which means a lot of spending. So, how can you make the most of yours without going into debt? As summer winds down, retailers gear up for their own version of Christmas: back-to-school shopping season. A recent survey by NerdWallet reveals that parents of K-12 and college students plan to spend an average of $540 on school supplies and clothing this year. Unfortunately, this can lead to financial strain, with one in ten shoppers going into debt and another 20% using "buy now, pay later" programs.

The human instinct is to hoard things in times of economic stress. Let’s look at what the Bible has to say about that. Hoarding is the over-the-top collection of stuff you can’t rationally use in a reasonable time. Today, we’ll talk about the root causes of this temptation and how to avoid it.

Margin is one of those important things in life that we often take for granted … and that can lead to trouble. Margin basically means “something extra.” A little extra time or even distance from the car in front of you. It’s critical, especially with your finances. I’ll talk about financial margin today.

Is Jesus Lord of all your affairs, or is there still one part of your life where you insist on being “in charge?” That one area, all too often, is money. We all have to make a decision. Will we live in God’s economy or man’s? Sharon Epps is here today to help us understand the difference. 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

It’s human nature to be concerned about having enough, but would you know it when you get there? It’s a question we don’t ask ourselves enough…how much is enough? We have a great story in the Bible that gives us a clue, and Dr. Kelly Rush joins us today to talk about it. Dr. Kelly Rush is a Professor of Finance, Department Chair, and Financial Planning Program Coordinator at Mount Vernon Nazarene University in Ohio.

Stock markets have seen record highs in the past couple of months. Is it a good time to take profits? Well, it certainly can be a good time to take profits if you’ve seen your investments go through the roof recently. And today, I want to tell you about a way to realize those gains for God’s Kingdom.

“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the sinner's wealth is laid up for the righteous.” - Proverbs 13:22 That verse seems pretty straightforward … but it leaves several questions unanswered. What should we leave to our kids…how much…, and when? Ron Blue joins us today with the answers. Ron Blue is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, including Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives.

The Puritan poet Anne Bradstreet once wrote, “Wisdom without an inheritance is better than an inheritance without wisdom.” As Baby Boomers age, it’s estimated they’ll leave a tidal wave of wealth to their heirs, perhaps as much as $68 trillion by 2030. But is the next generation ready for that wealth?

“Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” - Ephesians 5:17 That verse is a good reminder that to follow God's will, we must first know it for all areas of our lives—including finances. Brian Holtz joins us today with a question: Does your budget reflect God’s priorities or yours? Brian Holtz is the Chief Operating Officer at Compass Financial Ministry and the author of Financial Discipleship for Families: Intentionally Raising Faithful Children.

Everyone knows what inflation means, right? You’d be surprised by how fuzzy some people think about inflation. Is inflation a rise in prices, or simply high prices? Or does it mean something else entirely? The results of a recent poll may surprise you, but we’ve got Mark Biller with us today to explain it. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Well, it’s hard to believe, but soon, the kids will be heading back to school. Are you ready to start the new school year on the right foot? Could you use a few tips? Well, you’re in for a treat. Crystal Paine joins us today with some great advice to make your back-to-school experience easier. Crystal Paine is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com and the author of The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most.

Paying off debt is always a good thing…but paying it off before retirement is one of the best financial moves you’ll ever make. It’s a disturbing trend: more people than ever are retiring with debt. That reduces their lifestyle choices and increases the likelihood they’ll have to return to work at some point. Today, we’ll talk about carrying debt into retirement and how you can avoid it.

Is it the best of times or the worst of times? Well, it all depends on if you’re trying to buy or sell a house. It really is a matter of perspective. Home values remain sky-high and are likely to continue rising in the foreseeable future. How you view that depends on which side of the transaction you’re on.

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep.” - Genesis 1:1-2 I’m sure you’re more than familiar with those first lines of the Bible…but are you aware of the economic implications of the creation story? Jerry Bowyer fills us in today. Jerry Bowyer is the President of Bowyer Research and our Resident Economist here at Faith & Finance. He is the author of “The Maker Versus the Takers: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics.” You can also read his insightful columns for World News Group.

You have to be at least 62 to collect Social Security…maybe because it takes that long to understand the program. Do you have questions about Social Security? Of course you do. Who doesn’t? Well, you don’t want to miss today’s program. Eddie Holland is back to answer more of your questions about Social Security. Eddie Holland is a Senior Private Wealth Advisor and partner of Blue Trust in Greenville, South Carolina. He’s also a CPA, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), and a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®).

If you’re tired of living paycheck-to-paycheck…you can make a decision today that will change your life. All you have to do is practice God’s financial principles and then wait to see what happens. You’ll be amazed at the results.

Beauty matters to painters, musicians, and photographers, but what does it have to do with investing? The creation account suggests that beauty is also at the core of faithful stewardship and investing. Today, we’ll discuss “Investing in Beautiful” with Jason Myhre of the Eventide Center for Faith & Investing. Jason Myhre is the Executive Director of the Eventide Center for Faith & Investing, an educational initiative of Eventide Asset Management, and an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

It’s the 4th of July—the day we celebrate our nation’s independence. It’s also a great day to take stock of your financial independence. Are you on the road to financial freedom? Or are you falling under the bondage of money? It’s one or the other. Either you control your money…or your money controls you.

2 Corinthians 9:6 says, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” God’s Word repeatedly challenges us to be generous givers to our families and His Kingdom. When should we do this giving? Are we waiting too long? Ron Blue joins us today with an idea you may not have thought about. Ron Blue is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, most notably “Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment.”

Did you know that anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the U.S. today? You might assume that we have a major anxiety problem just by the number of commercials you see for new medicines to treat these disorders, but is anxiety really a new thing?

In the First Century B.C., Roman historian Sallust said, “Prosperity tries the souls, even of the wise.” Most people would choose financial prosperity despite its temptations. But what if you’re living with financial adversity? Today, we’ll talk about how to be wise in good times and bad.

Since the beginning of time, God’s design for humanity has always been to be a giant family spread throughout the earth. So what happened? Because of the power of sin in our world, families are broken, children become orphans, and many feel alone and isolated, as if they don’t belong. Dr. Albert Reyes with Buckner International joins us today to share a hopeful message about God’s design for his family. Dr. Albert Reyes is the author of Never Alone: The Power of Family to Inspire Hope and Hope Now: Peace, Healing, and Justice When the Kingdom Comes Near. He serves as the President and CEO of Buckner International, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

What’s harder to get rid of than termites and hurts more than a toothache? A certain group of people will tell you it’s a timeshare. It seemed like a good idea at the time…but now it’s just another budget buster. Today, we’re diving deeper into this topic. Unfortunately, none of the options are particularly great, but let’s explore them.

The Bible contains many accounts of God providing miraculously for His people, but none are more fascinating than the story of the Widow’s Oil. That passage is found in 2 Kings 4:1-7—it’s just seven verses, but they’re loaded with teaching about God’s provision. Sharon Epps joins us today to unpack the story of the Widow’s Oil and how we can apply it to our lives today. 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

The Bible clearly says that Christians are to give…but is it always as clear about where we should give? We all have to decide where we will give from our limited resources. So, a good question to ask is, “Does God care where we give?” I’ll talk about that today with David Wills. David Wills is President of The National Christian Foundation (NCF). He is also the co-author of Investing in God’s Business (The “How To” of Smart Christian Giving) and numerous articles and lectures nationwide.

Myths can be persistent things. For a long time, people thought the world was flat. The investing world has its share of myths that persist to this day. Rachel McDonough joins us today to go over 3 myths about wealth that many Christians believe—but shouldn’t. Rachel McDonough is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and a regular Faith & Finance contributor.

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.

It’s said that we learn from mistakes, not success…but do you want to experience that with your retirement savings? No question, saving and investing for retirement is something you want to get right the first time. Mark Biller joins us today to help you avoid some of the most common retirement planning mistakes. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 Teaching our children how to manage God’s money is vital to raising them. But how can parents do this well? Brian Holtz will share some great insights today. Brian Holtz is the Chief Operating Officer at Compass Financial Ministry and the author of Financial Discipleship for Families: Intentionally Raising Faithful Children.

“By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.” - Proverbs 24:3-4 Faithful stewardship requires us to make wise financial decisions…manage and grow assets, and protect our families from hardship. Are you ready if you’re suddenly disabled or incapacitated? Valerie Hogan joins us with a checklist to prepare you for it. Valerie Hogan is an attorney, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), a member of Kingdom Advisors, as well as the co-author of Wise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More with Miriam Neff.

You’ve been a careful steward, working hard, saving your money, and spending wisely. Now what? Being able to live comfortably and afford the things you need seems like a worthy goal. Today, we’ll look at having a surplus from a biblical perspective.

Dr. Richard Swenson, author of The Overload Syndrome and Margin, writes that… “We must have some room to breathe. We need freedom to think and permission to heal. Our relationships are being starved to death by velocity.” Too many people are physically, emotionally, mentally, and financially overloaded these days. So, we’ll look at rest from a biblical perspective today.

We all want our plans to succeed, but what does the Lord want? Are you and God on the same page regarding your financial plans? Today, we’ll discuss achieving your financial goals and doing God’s will. As avid planners, we know that having a plan is the best way to meet your financial goals—or any goals, for that matter. But how do you ensure your plans align with God’s will for your life? As Christians, we believe that Jesus’ plans are the best, and the Bible supports this in Proverbs 19:21: “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will succeed.”

Knowing where and how to give to God’s Kingdom can be a challenge for any one person…but all the more so if you’re married. It’s beautiful when couples agree on how to manage their money—how much to spend and save…but finding agreement on giving is just as important. Today, Bob shares what he and his wife, Leslie, learned about it. 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.

Some people learn from the mistakes of others. Unfortunately, some people have to be the others. You certainly don’t want to be one of the “others” who must learn things the hard way by making mistakes. Today, we'll talk to Ron Blue about some of the biggest financial mistakes you want to avoid. Ron Blue is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, most notably “Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment.”

According to some estimates, the average household spends an astonishing 40% of its food budget on eating out. That’s a lot to digest. After housing and transportation, food is probably the next biggest item in the budget. It’s also a place where you can easily make changes that will save you a lot of money.

The Qualified Charitable Distribution is one of the most underutilized tax benefits, yet almost 25 million Americans can take it. There are many requirements for taking a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD), or QCD. You must be 70 ½ and have an IRA. If more folks understood QCDs better, they might take them. David Hogan joins us today with the ABCs of QCDs. David Hogan is the Principal of Clifton Larson Allen CPA’s in Atlanta, GA.

Many think Solomon was the wisest man who ever lived…and much of his God-given wisdom is about managing money. John Putnam joins us today to talk about the 3 Money Moves of Solomon—so you can be just as wise. John Putnam is a Strategic Stewardship Coach, a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and the founder of Money Made Faithful, a financial discipleship marketplace ministry.

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and anxious about your finances? You're not alone. For many, money is the number one source of stress. But what if you could transform your relationship with money from one of fear and dread to one of trust and joy? Dr. Shane Enete joins us today to discuss how we can do that. Dr. Shane Enete is an Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University and the author of the brand new book, “Whole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy.”

Homeowners now have an average of nearly $300,000 in home equity, and the nationwide total is staggering at $16 trillion. Home equity is undoubtedly one of our largest assets. So, how do the biblical principles of stewardship apply to it? Harlan Accola joins us today to discuss this. Harlan Accola is the National Reverse Mortgage Director at Movement Mortgage, an underwriter of Faith and Finance. He is also the author of Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement.

Americans have an average of four credit cards. Do you really need that many? And how many is enough? Too often, we hang on to credit cards we no longer use…providing an unnecessary invitation to identity thieves to run up charges in our names. Canceling them is a good idea if done correctly.

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” - Galatians 6:9 One Christian ministry has been doing good for nearly 150 years and shows zero signs of growing weary. Scott Collins joins us today to discuss Buckner International and its ongoing efforts to support foster care, adoption, and family outreach. Scott Collins is the Senior Vice President of Communications at Buckner International, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

The data shows that personal debt is rising, and folks are worried about their financial future. So what’s the solution? We can’t control some things, like inflation and a slowing economy. But we can do some things—especially when managing and eliminating debt. Neile Simon joins us today to discuss the solution to fretting over finances. Neile Simon is a Certified Credit Counselor with Christian Credit Counselors (CCC), an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“My eyes are ever toward the Lord, for he will pluck my feet out of the net … the troubles of my heart are enlarged, bring me out of my distresses.” - Psalm 25:15, 17 Do you feel trapped by your finances? Do you find yourself giving in to worldly pressure? Is there a way out of the world’s money trap? There is, and Sharon Epps joins us today to talk about it. 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 integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

Romans 12:9 says, “Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.” It may not be intuitive, but this verse is a compelling guide for applying our faith to our investment decisions. We’ll talk with Jason Myhre today about how we can love without hypocrisy as we invest our money. Jason Myhre is the Executive Director of the Eventide Center for Faith & Investing, an educational initiative of Eventide Asset Management, and an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Do you think of yourself as a generous person? Most of us would like to think we are, but do we know why we’re generous? Jesus told us that it’s better to give than to receive, and Christians are very generous people. Today, we’ll hear from Chris Gabriel about why this is the case and how we can be even more generous. Chris Gabriel is the author of WISEgenerosity: A Guide To Purposeful and Productive Living and Giving. Chris recently spoke to financial professionals at the 2024 Kingdom Advisors Redeeming Money Conference in Orlando. However, his keen insights on why and how we’re generous apply to all of us.

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.

From Jeremiah 29:7, we know God's people should seek the welfare of the places and people around them. But is seeking the welfare of our community something Christians can pursue by means of investing choices? Today, we speak with an investment manager who has been "seeking the welfare of cities" all over America and the world through his advocacy work with corporations. As we will hear today, investors can influence decisions made behind closed doors by corporations. Chris Meyer joins us today to examine how this advocacy works. Chris Meyer is the Manager of Stewardship Investing Research and Advocacy for Praxis Mutual Funds®, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Statistics show that many people aren’t saving for retirement. Others may have far more than enough. How do you find the right balance? Yes, saving too much for retirement is possible, although many more folks aren’t saving enough. What does Scripture tell us about responsible savings? Brian Holtz fills us in today. Brian Holtz is the Chief Operating Officer at Compass Financial Ministry and the author of Financial Discipleship for Families: Intentionally Raising Faithful Children.

Are you confident you’ll be able to retire comfortably someday? Are you taking steps to make that happen? Inadequate savings, faulty assumptions, and high inflation could create barriers to a comfortable retirement. Can we learn anything from today’s retirees? Matt Bell thinks we can and joins us today to discuss this. Matt Bell is the Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

You’ve heard the expression, “Pennywise and pound foolish?” Here in the States, we could say “Pennywise and dollar foolish.” A good example is when someone is more concerned about the interest they’re getting on their savings account than the interest they’re paying on their mortgage. When managing your finances, shopping around for the best interest rates on savings is wise. However, focusing on reducing the interest on your mortgage can have a much bigger payoff.

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” - Acts 1:8 Those were Christ’s words to the apostles after his resurrection. The fulfillment of that promise began a few days later, on Pentecost, and continues in believers to this day. We’ll explain what that has to do with your finances.

Do you use a credit union? Or have you never considered using one? Credit union members know their advantages, and 120 million nationwide can’t be wrong. Aaron Caid joins us today to discuss the pros and cons of credit unions (and spoiler alert: there aren’t many cons). Aaron Caid is the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

We want to think that our actions are always pleasing to God and certainly don’t offend Him…but we also know that isn’t always true. Christians are called to do good works so the world will see them and God will be glorified. So it shouldn’t surprise us that God takes stinginess and generosity personally. Randy Alcorn joins us today to discuss this. Randy Alcorn is a New York Times bestselling author of over 60 books on Christian Living and the Founder and Director of Eternal Perspective Ministries. His ministry focuses on helping others use their time, money, possessions, and opportunities in ways that count for eternity.

We tend to think that wealthy individuals always make the right financial decisions, but is that always the case? The truth is that people with a high net worth can sometimes make financial mistakes just as easily as the rest of us and perhaps with even worse consequences. Cole Pearson shares five of them today. Cole Pearson is the President of Investment Solutions at OneAscent, a family of companies seeking to help people align their investments with their Christian values. OneAscent is also an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Proverbs 27:12 reads, “The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.” The word “insurance” isn’t in the Bible, but it does say that it’s wise to protect your financial holdings—and insurance is one way to do that.

As we approach Mother's Day, it's a great time to reflect on mothers' immense value to our lives, beyond their immeasurable emotional and spiritual support. While it's clear that a mother's contributions are priceless, have you ever wondered what the monetary value of a mother's work might be?

What would you say is the most generous act of all time? If you said “The Cross,” you’d be correct. Jesus gave His life so we may spend eternity with Him. We must only have faith in Him as our Lord and Savior to receive this gift. Art Rainer joins us today with thoughts on what the Cross reveals about generosity. Art Rainer founded the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is a regular contributor here at Faith & Finance and the author of “Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose.”

In Matthew 10:16, Jesus called us to be wise as snakes and gentle as doves. But can we be gentle and wise when standing up for biblical principles and our voting rights as investors? It’s the annual shareholder meeting season for public corporations, meaning companies will hear about their policies from investors. Jerry Bowyer joins us today with a biblical perspective on corporate engagement. Jerry Bowyer is the President of Bowyer Research and our Resident Economist here at Faith & Finance. He is the author of “The Maker Versus the Takers: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics.” You can also read his insightful columns for World News Group.

The dictionary defines poverty as having little or no money or possessions…and no means of getting them. That definition of poverty is undoubtedly true, as far as it goes, but is there more to poverty than a lack of resources? Brian Fikkert certainly thinks so and joins us today to discuss it. Brian Fikkert is a Professor of Economics and Community Development and the Founder and President of the Chalmers Center for Economic Development at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. He is also the co-author of the best-selling book, “When Helping Hurts: How To Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting The Poor…And Yourself”.

As if you don’t have enough to do–here comes May! And with it, the graduations, sports playoffs, and end-of-school events that keep you hopping. We all treasure these important life events and the memories they create. What we don’t enjoy is the stress. Today, we’ll talk about how to avoid buying into the busyness.

The summer home buying season is straight ahead. Will sellers get a break on real estate commissions? The National Association of Realtors recently shocked the industry by dropping its 6% sales commission. What does that mean for home sellers this summer? Dale Vermillion fills us in today. Dale Vermillion is the author of Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home. This book covers everything you need to know about securing a mortgage—all from a biblical perspective.

“And he said to them, ‘Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.’” - Luke 12:15 Jesus warned His followers to be wary of materialism, but we’re all guilty of it occasionally—wasting money on things we don’t need. I’ll discuss six of them today.

God’s Word tells us we should not test God…with one significant exception. Yes, there’s one place in the Bible where God specifically tells us to test Him and it shouldn’t surprise us that it involves money. Ron Blue joins us today to discuss a situation where some folks may be afraid to test God. Ron Blue co-founded Kingdom Advisors and has authored seventeen books on personal finance from a Biblical perspective, including the best-seller, “Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment.”

It’s a question we get from time to time, “Is online banking a good thing?” If you’re still using the drive-thru window at your local bank branch to deposit checks and perform other routine banking chores, you should consider doing more of your banking online to save time and gas. Once upon a time, going to the bank was a regular part of life in America. However, online banking has made most trips to your local branch unnecessary.

“For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills. I know all the birds of the hills, and all that moves in the field is mine.” - Psalm 50:10-11 That passage and many others in the Bible remind us that God owns everything and we’re only stewards of what He gives us—and that only for a time. But is there a deeper meaning in these verses?

If you make $65,000 a year after taxes and have no children, you’re in the wealthiest 1% of the global population. If we consider ourselves in the top 1%, how will that affect our financial decisions as stewards of God’s resources? John Cortines joins us today with some fascinating insights about Jesus and the wealthy. John Cortines is the Director of Generosity at the MacLellan Foundation and the co-author of God and Money: How We Discovered True Riches at Harvard Business School and True Riches: What Jesus Really Said About Money and Your Heart.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” - John 14:27 Do you occasionally feel overwhelmed by anxiety? Or is it more of a chronic condition, and often about your finances? We’ll hear from Steve Cuss today about recognizing and overcoming anxiety. Steve Cuss is a pastor, former chaplain, and founder of Capable Life, which helps people lower internal and relational anxiety in the workplace and at home. He is also the host of the Being Human podcast from Christianity Today and the author of “The Expectation Gap: The Tiny, Vast Space between Our Beliefs and Experience of God.”

God’s Word contains powerful financial teachings that can change your life. Are you using it? The Bible contains over 2,300 verses on money and possessions, a storehouse of powerful financial tips. Sharon Epps joins us today to discuss them. Some you know, but some may surprise you. Sharon Epps is the President of Kingdom Advisors, FaithFi’s parent organization.

When you leave the house, one of the last things you do is something you take entirely for granted— putting on a pair of shoes. Millions of children in dozens of countries worldwide lack shoes, so that simple act isn't possible. Shawn Spurrier joins us today to discuss how you can help. Shawn Spurrier is the Director of Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls at Buckner International, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

How often do you get a chance to buy something you need of higher quality at a lower cost? You’re probably thinking, “Not very often.” Well, you’ll get a chance to do just that today. Lauren Gajdek joins us with the details. Lauren Gajdek is the Vice President of Communications and Media at Christian Healthcare Ministries, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

“But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’” You may recall that verse from the Parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12. And what does that mean? A new FaithFi study guide focuses on this topic, and we’ll talk to Carolyn Calupca about it today. Carolyn Calupca was a long-time senior producer at Crown Financial Ministries where she worked closely with Larry Burkett for many years. She’s now a frequent contributor here at Faith and Finance and the author of our new 4-week study guide, Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool.

Year after year, the annual survey taken for the T-I-A-A Institute Personal Finance Index shows low financial literacy for the 18-to-25 age group. A majority of these young adults consistently fail to demonstrate a working knowledge of financial concepts like budgeting, saving, insurance, and investing. Think about what this means. Tens of thousands of young adults are going off to college or joining the workforce today without knowing how to manage their money, avoid overspending, or even build a solid financial future for themselves. These days, we have online banking and instant digital transactions. It’s so easy to use credit and transfer money that many young people live day to day without a plan…until they need a bailout from Mom or Dad! Young adults rarely handle cash, which also means they no longer have a physical connection to their money. When you don’t see and feel your money coming and going, you might not realize when it’s gone. This disconnect can lead to unintentional overspending and a lifetime of debt, not to mention a lack of motivation to save for the future. So, whether you’re a parent of teenagers or a “Gen Z” just starting out, here are a few must-have financial skills and how to acquire them.

“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” - Ephesians 5:15-16 We don’t often think of time management as one of God’s financial and spiritual principles, but we definitely should. Busy moms certainly know how crucial it is. Crystal Paine joins us today with some tips on time management for achieving spiritual balance. Crystal Paine is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com and author of The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most.

Economist and investment expert Peter Bernstein once said, “The biggest risk is not knowing what you are doing.” All investments carry some degree of risk. Companies fail, and governments fall, so ensuring the return is worth the risk is important. Mark Biller joins us today to discuss managing investment risk. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

"Into your hands I commit my spirit; redeem me, O Lord, deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me" — Psalm 31:5 and 15 Those are the words of David, who suffered severe mistreatment at the hands of Saul. We’re all mistreated from time to time. It could be by a family member, a friend, a boss or co-worker, or someone you’re doing business with who may be trying to cheat you. So how should you respond?

You know two things that just don’t go together? Or shouldn’t go together? Springtime…and procrastination. The birds are coming back, the daffodils are blooming and the maintenance chores you put off all winter need to get done. I have a “to do” list for you.