Back to School Starts with a Pair of Shoes with Shawn Spurrier

Women have played a vital role in advancing the gospel from the very beginning.In Romans 16, the Apostle Paul introduces us to Phoebe—a trusted partner whose generosity, influence, and service helped further his ministry. Her story offers a compelling picture of what it means to use the resources God has entrusted to us to advance the gospel.John Rinehart, founder and CEO of Gospel Patrons, has spent years studying and telling the stories of men and women who have supported gospel ministry throughout history. He says Phoebe is one of the clearest biblical examples of what he calls a gospel patron.What Is a Gospel Patron?A gospel patron is someone who comes alongside those proclaiming the gospel and supports their work through relationships, influence, financial resources, and other practical means.These partnerships have existed since the earliest days of Christianity.Luke 8 tells us that Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and other women supported Jesus and His disciples “out of their means.” They were using what God had given them to help make ministry possible.Throughout church history, the names of gospel patrons have often appeared in the background. They may not have been the ones preaching sermons, translating Bibles, planting churches, or leading missionary movements, but their generosity helped make those ministries possible.As Rinehart explains, behind many gospel proclaimers throughout history have been faithful men and women helping fuel the work.Phoebe was one of them.The Remarkable Trust Paul Placed in PhoebeRomans is one of the most significant theological writings in the New Testament. Yet when Paul reaches the final chapter, the first person he mentions is Phoebe. Paul writes:“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae, that you may welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and help her in whatever she may need from you, for she has been a patron of many and of myself.” —Romans 16:1–2Phoebe was apparently someone Paul trusted deeply. She is widely understood to have carried Paul’s letter to the believers in Rome—a significant responsibility involving a long and difficult journey.Paul also describes her as his own patron.We do not know exactly what Phoebe's financial support provided. She may have helped cover Paul's travel, living expenses, ministry costs, or even expenses associated with producing and distributing letters. Scripture does not tell us.What it does tell us is significant enough: Phoebe was an important partner in Paul's ministry, and her resources were being used in service to the gospel.Her example reminds us that faith and finances were never intended to occupy separate parts of our lives.Wealth Is an Opportunity to Do GoodChristians can sometimes struggle with how to think about money. We may begin to view wealth as something inherently worldly while treating faith as something private and spiritual.Scripture gives us a much more integrated picture.What we do with the resources God entrusts to us can itself become an act of worship. Money can be used to care for people in need, support missionaries, serve widows and orphans, strengthen ministries, and help spread the gospel.The important question is not merely, “How much wealth do I have?” It is, “How can I faithfully use what God has entrusted to me?”Phoebe understood that her resources carried Kingdom possibilities.That lesson may be particularly significant in the years ahead as enormous amounts of wealth change hands and women become increasingly influential stewards of financial resources. Phoebe offers a biblical picture of what can happen when financial influence is placed at God's disposal.Three Characteristics of a Gospel PatronRinehart identifies three qualities that can help us recognize faithful gospel patronage: vision, generosity, and humility.1. VisionGospel patrons develop eyes to recognize where God is working.They can see potential before the results are obvious. They recognize that something seemingly small today—a missionary, ministry, church plant, Bible translation, or act of service—may bear fruit far beyond what they will ever personally witness.That requires faith.God often begins His work through what appears small, like the mustard seed Jesus described. Gospel patrons have the vision to see what God might do and the willingness to participate.2. GenerosityVision eventually leads to action. Gospel patrons do more than admire good ministry. They joyfully put their resources behind it.That generosity may sometimes involve sacrifice. Instead of viewing giving merely as another financial obligation, gospel patrons see it as an opportunity to participate personally in God's work.Their resources become tools that can help others proclaim the gospel, serve people in need, and bless communities.3. HumilityGospel patrons are also willing to serve without being at the center of attention. They do not need the microphone.Their name may never appear on a platform or become widely known. Their joy comes from knowing that the work is being accomplished.Phoebe's name appears only briefly in Scripture, yet imagine the impact connected to the letter she carried. Christians have been studying Romans for nearly two thousand years.Sometimes extraordinary Kingdom impact happens through people willing to serve faithfully behind the scenes.How Do You Choose What to Support?Generosity should not mean giving impulsively to every opportunity that appears. Wisdom and discernment matter.Rinehart encourages believers to begin with prayer, asking God to help them see where they may have a role in His work.Then comes thoughtful evaluation.Before supporting a person or ministry, consider its theological convictions, character, competence, and clarity of mission. Talk with people who know the organization. Seek wise counsel. Ask whether the ministry has demonstrated faithful stewardship and whether its work aligns with biblical priorities.Generosity and due diligence do not compete with one another. Responsible stewardship includes both.You Don't Have to Wait Until You're WealthyPerhaps the idea of becoming a gospel patron sounds exciting, but you are still early in your career or don't have substantial financial resources.You do not have to wait.Jesus teaches in Luke 16 that faithfulness begins with what we have now. One of the dangers of generosity is always moving it into the future:I'll give when I earn more.I'll become generous when the debt is gone.I'll support ministry once I've reached a certain financial milestone.But habits established with a little often remain when we eventually have much. Start where you are.That might mean supporting a missionary with a modest recurring gift. It could mean giving toward a ministry you believe in, opening your home, sharing your professional expertise, introducing people who could accomplish more together, or intentionally creating financial margin so generosity can grow over time.Small acts of faithfulness have a way of preparing us for larger ones.Lifestyle matters here, too. Rising income can easily be consumed by rising expenses. If every increase in income automatically raises your lifestyle, generosity will always feel difficult.Choosing to live below your means can create margin not simply for financial security, but for giving.What Has God Put in Your Hands?Phoebe's story raises a question worth considering: What resources has God entrusted to you that could help advance the gospel?Perhaps it is wealth. Perhaps it is your business experience, professional expertise, relationships, home, influence, or ability to connect the right people.You may be called to proclaim the gospel publicly. Or you may be someone whose faithful support allows another person to devote more of his or her life to doing so.Both roles matter. Phoebe did not write Romans. Paul did.But Phoebe faithfully used what God had entrusted to her, and she became an important partner in Paul's ministry. Nearly two thousand years later, we are still saying her name.Her story reminds us that we do not need to be the person standing in the spotlight to have an extraordinary gospel impact. We simply need to ask God to show us what He has placed in our hands—and then faithfully use it for His glory.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’m over 70, still working, and collecting Social Security. I’m considering withdrawing about $175,000 from my 401(k) to buy a rental property that could generate around $1,600 a month, leaving about $125,000 in the account. Would that be a wise move?My 91-year-old father has pension income and long-term care insurance, but we still face a $3,500 to $4,000 monthly shortfall, and he’s down to about $25,000 in savings. A reverse mortgage could help him stay in his home for another couple of years. Would that be a good option, and what type should we consider?Resources Mentioned:Become a FaithFi PartnerFaithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly MagazineGospel PatronsGospel Patrons: People Whose Generosity Changed The World by John RinehartMovement MortgageFaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money is Enough? Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob WestWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For millions of vulnerable children around the world, a pair of shoes can mean far more than having something new to wear. It can mean the difference between going to school and staying home, between greater protection from disease and continued exposure, and even between feeling forgotten and knowing someone cares.That’s why FaithFi is partnering with Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls throughout September, a ministry of Buckner International, to help provide new shoes and socks to children in need around the world.Shawn Spurrier, Director of Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls, joined the show today to explain why something as ordinary as a pair of shoes can have such an extraordinary impact.Removing a Barrier to EducationFor most families in the United States, buying shoes is simply part of getting children ready for school. But in many parts of the world, adequate footwear is required to attend class.According to Spurrier, an estimated 300 million children worldwide lack access to adequate footwear, and tens of millions may miss school as a result. In many countries, children cannot attend school without shoes.That makes a pair of shoes more than a practical gift. It can help remove a barrier to education and give a child greater opportunity to rise above poverty.Shoes also provide important protection from cuts, injuries, parasites, and footborne diseases. For children living in vulnerable communities, those protections can make a meaningful difference in their health and daily lives.Health, Dignity, and the Love of ChristThe impact goes beyond education and physical health.When children receive new shoes, they may also gain a greater sense of dignity and confidence. Proper footwear can help reduce some of the social stigma children experience because of poverty or illness.Most importantly, Buckner sees every pair of shoes as an opportunity to communicate Christ's love.Since 1999, Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls has collected and distributed approximately 5.25 million pairs of shoes in 86 countries. Today, Buckner maintains programming in the United States and several countries throughout Latin America and Africa, including Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, the Dominican Republic, Peru, Kenya, and Ethiopia.A pair of shoes may seem like a small piece of a much larger effort to strengthen vulnerable families. But small acts of generosity can open doors to deeper relationships and lasting transformation.When a Pair of Shoes Says, “You Are Not Forgotten”Spurrier shared the story of a young girl named Romina, whom Buckner served near Oaxaca, Mexico.Romina was about six years old when she attended a shoe distribution at one of Buckner’s Family Hope Centers. During the distribution, volunteers washed her feet, talked with her, and reminded her that God loved her and cared for her.As Romina received her new shoes, she began to cry.At first, Spurrier wondered if something was wrong. But a Buckner family coach explained that Romina was simply overwhelmed that someone had thought enough of her to give her a new pair of shoes.The story didn’t end with the distribution.Romina’s family became connected with the local Family Hope Center and embraced the support offered there. Over time, their circumstances changed. Romina, once shy and anxious, became a leader in her after-school programs, reaching out to children who felt excluded and even praying with other students. Her family eventually reached greater economic and spiritual stability and began volunteering with Buckner to encourage other families.It’s a reminder that we rarely know how God may use a simple act of generosity.A pair of shoes met an immediate physical need. But it also helped communicate something deeper: You are seen. You are loved. You have not been forgotten.More Than a One-Time GiftBuckner’s ministry doesn’t simply distribute shoes and leave.In many of the communities where it serves, Buckner operates Family Hope Centers that provide ongoing, Christ-centered support designed to help families move toward greater stability. The ministry also works alongside local churches and trusted community partners to connect families with resources and relationships that extend beyond the initial shoe distribution.Each pair of shoes also includes an encouraging message reminding the child of God’s love. In some communities, distributions are accompanied by Scripture, Bibles, Vacation Bible School programs, and opportunities for children and families to hear the gospel.That long-term approach matters.Meeting a practical need can become the beginning of a relationship. And as children and families experience both tangible care and spiritual encouragement, the impact can spread throughout an entire community.A Simple Way to Make a DifferenceThroughout September, FaithFi and Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls have set a goal of providing shoes for 1,000 children worldwide.Every $15 provides a child with a new pair of shoes and socks and helps cover the cost of getting them where they are needed. A gift of $150 can provide shoes and socks for 10 children.It’s a simple gift, but its impact can reach much further.A pair of shoes can help a child walk into a classroom. It can protect against injury and disease. It can restore dignity and confidence. And through Buckner’s ministry, it can become a tangible expression of the love of Jesus Christ.If you’d like to join FaithFi and Buckner in reaching 1,000 children this September, visit GiveShoesToday.org.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My pension ends when I die, and I want to protect my wife and special-needs son. I already have a special needs trust for my son and am considering about $1 million of term life insurance, possibly using a laddered strategy so coverage decreases over time. Does that make sense, and how should I balance life insurance with investing for their future?I’ll reach full Social Security retirement age next June and plan to keep working, earning about $60,000 a year. If I start Social Security at full retirement age, can I continue working and receive my full benefit without an earnings limit?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Buckner Shoes for Orphan SoulsFaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money is Enough? Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob WestWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When money is tight, the financial goals you want to pursue can feel frustratingly out of reach. You may want to give more generously, build your savings, or pay down debt, but there simply doesn’t seem to be enough margin to do everything.The good news is that financial progress doesn’t always begin with a giant leap. Sometimes, faithfulness looks like taking one small step at a time.Brian Holtz, CEO of Compass Financial Ministry, says that whether financial pressure comes from past choices or circumstances outside our control, creating that first bit of margin is often the hardest part. But a few practical steps can begin building momentum.1. Start With PrayerThe first step may not sound tactical, but it is foundational: invite God into your financial decisions.James 1:5 tells us that if we lack wisdom, we should ask God, who gives generously to those who ask. When you feel financially stuck, tell the Lord that you want to honor Him with what He has entrusted to you and ask Him to show you the next faithful step.The answer may not come as unexpected money. More often, God may provide fresh insight, reveal new options, or bring wise people into your life who can help you see your situation differently.Before changing the numbers, begin by seeking the One who gives wisdom.2. Think Smaller—but LongerWhen margins are slim, quick financial wins may be harder to come by. But that doesn’t mean progress is impossible.Perhaps you want to give 10% of your income but simply aren’t in a position to do that right now. Instead of giving up on generosity altogether, you might begin with 1% or even less and prayerfully work your way up over time.The same principle applies to saving. If all you can set aside is $5 or $10 a week, start there. Small amounts may not seem significant, but consistency matters.Jesus praised the widow who gave two small coins in Mark 12:41–44. The monetary value was tiny, but her gift revealed something much greater about her heart.Faithful stewardship isn’t measured only by the size of the step. Sometimes the important thing is simply keeping moving in the right direction.3. Use Windfalls to Create MarginOccasional extra money can become a powerful tool when used strategically.A tax refund, bonus, rebate, gift, or an occasional month with an extra paycheck can help reduce expenses that normally consume your monthly cash flow.Instead of spending that money automatically, consider using it to eliminate a small recurring payment. Perhaps you can pay off a phone, clear a small department-store credit card balance, or eliminate another modest bill.That may free only $10, $20, or $50 each month—but now that money can be redirected toward your next priority.It’s similar to a miniature debt snowball. One small victory creates margin, and that margin fuels the next step.When money is tight, momentum matters.4. Shop With a StrategyAnother way to create breathing room is to become more intentional about everyday spending.Start by prioritizing essential expenses such as housing, utilities, food, transportation, and other obligations. Then evaluate optional expenses.That may mean pausing a streaming subscription during a difficult month or postponing a purchase you would otherwise enjoy. Needs should generally come before wants.You can also make your grocery dollars work harder by purchasing staples when they are discounted. If chicken is half-price and you know your family will use it, buying an extra package may reduce future grocery costs. The key is buying strategically rather than simply buying more because something is on sale.Small decisions like these can gradually create room in a tight budget.Don’t Despise Small BeginningsWhen finances are strained, it’s easy to become discouraged because you can’t immediately accomplish everything you want to do.But stewardship is not about achieving financial perfection overnight. It is about faithfully managing what God has placed in your hands today.Pray for wisdom. Start smaller if necessary. Use unexpected income strategically. Choose needs before wants. Then allow each wise decision to create a little more margin for the next one.As Zechariah 4:10 reminds us, we should not despise small beginnings.You may not be able to change your entire financial situation today. But you can take one faithful step—and then another.Compass also offers a video study called Making Ends Meet, designed to help individuals and families find that first bit of financial margin and begin their financial discipleship journey one step at a time.You can learn more and find additional biblical stewardship resources at CompassFinancialMinistry.org.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband has been in a nursing home for four years and is on Medicaid. I’ve been told that once I retire, if my income exceeds about $4,000 a month, I may have to contribute more toward his care. Is that true? And could using some of my 401(k) to pay down our mortgage affect how Medicaid treats my income or assets?I keep my emergency fund in savings, but the interest is low, and CDs limit access. Would a money market mutual fund be a good place to keep emergency savings?I’m receiving Social Security survivor benefits from my late husband. If I remarry, can I continue receiving those benefits, particularly at my age?I’m 63 and have both a traditional IRA and a 401(k). Will my traditional IRA withdrawals be fully taxable in retirement, and would a Roth conversion make sense before I retire? Also, should I contribute only enough to my 401(k) to receive the 4% match and put additional retirement savings into my IRA instead?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Compass Financial MinistryMaking Ends Meet Video Study (Compass Financial Ministry)Fidelity Government Money Market Fund | Schwab Prime Advantage Money Fund | Vanguard Federal Money Market FundFaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money is Enough? Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob WestWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if the companies in your portfolio are working against the values you’re trying to live by?For Christians, investing is about more than pursuing financial returns. Like every other financial decision, investing can be viewed through the lens of stewardship—asking not only, “How is my money growing?” but also, “What is my money supporting?”Faith-based investing seeks to bring those questions together.Brian Mumbert, president of Timothy Plan, joined the show today to explain how faith-based investing works, what research suggests about performance, and how Christians can begin aligning their portfolios with biblical values.What Is Faith-Based Investing?Faith-based investing shares many objectives with conventional investing: building a diversified portfolio designed for long-term growth while managing risk appropriately.The difference is that it adds another consideration—a values-based screen.For Timothy Plan, that means avoiding companies that profit from or promote activities the fund family believes conflict with biblical principles. Examples may include abortion, pornography, gambling, and businesses that profit from activities that can exploit addiction or vulnerable people.At the same time, faith-based investors can seek companies producing goods and services that contribute positively to society.Importantly, biblical screening does not replace traditional investment analysis. Financial fundamentals still matter.“The screening comes before the portfolio construction,” Mumbert explained.The goal is to combine disciplined financial analysis with biblical convictions so investors can pursue competitive returns without unnecessarily separating their financial decisions from their faith.Does Screening Companies Hurt Investment Performance?One common concern about faith-based investing is that eliminating certain companies or industries will automatically lead to lower returns.According to Mumbert, research does not support the idea that values-based investing necessarily requires investors to accept a persistent performance penalty. He points to independent studies examining faith-based and values-aligned investment strategies, some of which have found comparable performance and, in certain cases, favorable risk-adjusted results.Screening can also remove companies facing significant social, reputational, or regulatory risks.Of course, no screening methodology guarantees better investment results, and past performance never guarantees future returns. Faith-based investors still need to evaluate expenses, diversification, risk, time horizon, and the quality of the underlying investment strategy.The larger point is that investors do not necessarily have to choose between financial discipline and biblical alignment.Looking Beneath the SurfaceKnowing what a company truly supports can be more complicated than simply looking at its primary business.A company may appear acceptable based on the products it sells while supporting other activities through corporate policies, charitable contributions, partnerships, or business practices.That makes research an important part of faith-based investing.Timothy Plan has developed a proprietary screening process over more than three decades. Its research examines both what companies profit from and what they promote at the corporate level.The process also relies on third-party information, and companies are reviewed periodically because corporate practices can change.That ongoing evaluation is important. A company that meets a particular screen today may change its policies, business lines, or priorities in the future.Transparency also gives investors an opportunity to examine holdings for themselves. Timothy Plan makes information available so shareholders can better understand how their investments align with its biblical screening standards.Building a Diversified Faith-Based PortfolioFaith-based investing has expanded considerably over the years. Investors today have access to a growing range of mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and other investment strategies.Timothy Plan currently offers 12 mutual funds and seven ETFs covering different areas of the market. Its offerings include strategies focused on various company sizes and investment styles, as well as more specialized options such as an Israel-focused fund.For investors just getting started, some Timothy Plan mutual funds have relatively low entry points, including a $1,000 initial investment or an automatic investment program beginning at $50 per month.But investors should never base their choices solely on whether a fund carries a Christian label.Investors should still consider their overall financial plan, including their goals, time horizon, risk tolerance, diversification, fees, and tax situation. A faith-based portfolio should be both biblically aligned and financially sound.Take an Inventory of What You OwnMany Christians have never examined the companies held inside their mutual funds, ETFs, retirement accounts, or other investments.That can be a valuable place to begin.Rather than assuming your investments reflect your convictions, take an inventory of what you actually own. Look beneath the fund names and examine the underlying companies your investment dollars are supporting.Timothy Plan offers screening resources that can help investors evaluate their current holdings. You may also want to work with a financial professional, such as a Certified Kingdom Advisor®, who understands both investment planning and the desire to integrate biblical principles into financial decisions.Faith-based investing will not make every investment decision simple. Christians may reach different conclusions about particular companies, industries, or screening standards.But stewardship invites us to be thoughtful.Our investments are part of the resources God has entrusted to us. And while financial returns matter, they are not the only question worth asking. We can also consider whether the way we invest is consistent with the values we seek to live out everywhere else.To learn more about Timothy Plan and its faith-based investment options, visit TimothyPlan.com.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband passed away in January, and I’m the beneficiary of his IRA and 401(k). What taxes might I owe on those accounts? He also had an outstanding 401(k) loan—will I have to repay it or report the unpaid balance as income?From a credit-score standpoint, is it better to have more than one credit card, or is one enough?My 90-year-old mother has early-stage dementia, and I’m now managing her finances. She continues to spend heavily on collectibles, and we’re concerned her money may not last if she eventually needs memory care. How can my sisters and I address her spending wisely and respectfully?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Timothy PlanWise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan, JD. FaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money is Enough? Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob WestWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In the first century B.C., Roman historian Sallust observed, “Prosperity tries the souls, even of the wise.”Most of us would probably choose financial prosperity over adversity. Yet both seasons bring their own spiritual challenges.When things are going well financially, it can be tempting to take credit for our success. Pride, greed, and self-reliance can quietly take root. Financial hardship brings different temptations—self-pity, bitterness, envy, or fear.Scripture offers a better way. Christians are called to live faithfully and with integrity regardless of their circumstances. And according to the Bible, the key to doing that in both prosperity and adversity is wisdom.The Beginning of WisdomProverbs 1:7 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”Fearing the Lord does not mean living in dread of Him. It means recognizing that He is God and we are not. It is a posture of reverence toward His holiness, wisdom, and authority.God’s commands are not arbitrary restrictions designed to make life difficult. They are loving boundaries given by the One who created us and knows what leads to life and flourishing. Like a loving parent who sets boundaries to protect a child, God directs us toward what is good.When we understand that, fearing the Lord becomes less about being afraid and more about growing in love, trust, and joyful obedience.And this wisdom is not reserved for the wealthy, successful, or especially intelligent. It is available to anyone who humbly listens to God and trusts His Word.The Fruit of Godly WisdomScripture describes many benefits of walking in wisdom.There is discernment. Proverbs 2:9 teaches that wisdom helps us understand “righteousness and justice and equity, every good path.”There is guidance. Proverbs 3:6 reminds us, “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”There is blessing. Proverbs 3:13 says, “Blessed is the one who finds wisdom.”There is also honor and protection. Proverbs 3:35 says, “The wise will inherit honor,” while Proverbs 16:6 teaches that “by the fear of the Lord one turns away from evil.”These are not promises that wise people will always become financially prosperous. They are reminders that God’s wisdom produces something far more valuable: a life increasingly shaped by truth, integrity, discernment, and faithfulness.Those qualities can take root whether your bank account is growing or shrinking.When We Reject WisdomScripture often contrasts the wise with the fool. That language is not intended as a petty insult but as a sober warning.Proverbs 12:15 says, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.”Biblically speaking, foolishness is the attempt to live independently of God’s wisdom—to determine for ourselves what is good, right, and worthy of pursuit.That temptation certainly appears in our financial lives.We may assume that because something makes financial sense, it must automatically be wise. We may pursue more money without asking what that pursuit is doing to our hearts. Or we may allow our circumstances to determine our attitude toward God.But His warnings are also invitations. God continually calls us back to a better way—a life shaped by His wisdom rather than our impulses.So what does that look like in our everyday financial decisions?See Money Through God’s EyesFirst, remember who owns everything.Scripture teaches that everything ultimately belongs to God. We are stewards of what He has entrusted to us.That changes the goal of financial management. The ultimate objective is not simply to reach a certain bank balance, accumulate enough possessions, or achieve financial independence. It is to become increasingly faithful with whatever God places in our hands.Ask the Holy Spirit to shape your desires, guide your decisions, and help you use God’s resources in ways that honor Him.Put Biblical Principles Into PracticeFinancial wisdom is more than knowing what Scripture says. It means putting biblical principles into practice.God’s Word should shape not only what we do with money but also how we treat people along the way.That means practicing honesty and integrity, dealing fairly with others, keeping our commitments, and allowing the Holy Spirit to cultivate generosity and humility.A financially wise decision should not merely ask, “Will this benefit me?” It should also consider whether the decision reflects God’s character and demonstrates love for others.Pursue ContentmentFinally, pursue contentment.Contentment grows as we learn to trust God with what we have, what we need, and what lies ahead.As we invite Him into our financial lives and depend increasingly on His provision, the Holy Spirit begins loosening our grip on comparison and the constant desire for more.That is why 1 Timothy 6:6 reminds us, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.”Contentment does not mean we stop planning, working, saving, or pursuing worthwhile goals. It means those things no longer determine our security or identity.Faithful in Prosperity and AdversityWhether you are walking through financial adversity or enjoying a season of prosperity, your circumstances do not change who God is.He remains faithful. His wisdom remains trustworthy. And His provision remains worthy of our confidence.True financial wisdom is not measured by how much we have. It is revealed in how faithfully we follow God with whatever He has entrusted to us.In every season—prosperity or adversity—the wisest path is the same: fear the Lord, trust His Word, and faithfully walk in His ways.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I inherited about $50,000, and a friend is encouraging me to use options trading to grow it faster. How does that compare with investing in more traditional mutual funds? Also, my late mother left $100 in a savings account that the bank says must go through probate. Does that make sense for such a small amount?My 75-year-old mother owns her home outright and is considering a reverse mortgage for extra income. She also co-signed a loan for my sister. Could that affect her ability to qualify?My wife has an inherited IRA from her father and a separate 401(k) from a former employer. Can those accounts be combined, and what’s the best way to use them for retirement income?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)FaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money is Enough? Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob WestWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Money has a way of reaching places in our lives that few other things do. It touches our fears, desires, relationships, priorities, and sense of security.That may be why Jesus spoke so often about money and possessions. In Matthew 6:21, He says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”Jesus understood something we often miss: money issues are often heart issues. Our financial choices can reveal what we trust, what we desire, and ultimately what we treasure.Materialism Is a Heart ProblemYears ago, Ron Blue once shared a story from his time in Kenya that profoundly shaped the way I think about stewardship.Ron was sitting on a hillside with a local pastor, looking out over the village where the man lived. Ron asked him what he thought was a practical question: “What’s the greatest barrier to the spread of the gospel here?”Ron expected to hear about a lack of money, transportation, or other resources.The pastor didn’t hesitate. “Materialism.”Ron was stunned. Surely materialism was primarily a Western problem. But the pastor explained that if a man has a mud hut, he wants a stone hut. If he has a thatched roof, he wants a metal one. If he has one cow, he wants two.That conversation helped Ron recognize an important truth: Materialism isn’t ultimately about how much you have. It’s about what your heart longs for.If materialism can thrive in a mud hut as easily as in an American suburb, then possessions aren’t the root problem. The heart is.Money simply has a remarkable ability to expose what is already there.Money Reveals What We TrustMoney itself is neither moral nor immoral. It is a tool. But because it touches nearly every area of life, the way we handle it can reveal what is happening inside us.Overspending may reveal a desire for identity, comfort, or approval. Clinging tightly to savings may reveal where we seek ultimate security. Debt can sometimes expose impatience or a desire to live beyond what God has currently provided. Resistance to generosity may reveal a fear that there will not be enough.In each case, the dollars are secondary. The heart is primary.The good news is that God cares deeply about our hearts, and He invites us into something better: freedom from fear, comparison, striving, and the belief that everything depends on us.Over the years, a few biblical truths have become foundational to the way I think about money and stewardship.1. God Owns It AllBiblical stewardship begins with ownership.Everything we possess ultimately belongs to God. Our money, possessions, abilities, opportunities, and even the power to produce wealth are gifts entrusted to us for a season.Recognizing God's ownership changes the question from, “What do I want to do with my money?” to, “God, what would You have me do with what belongs to You?”When we understand ourselves as stewards rather than owners, we can begin to hold money with greater gratitude, humility, and freedom.2. God Is Our ProviderJesus reminds us in Matthew 6 that our heavenly Father feeds the birds and clothes the lilies—and that His children are worth far more.That doesn’t mean Christians will never face financial difficulty or uncertainty. It does mean our ultimate confidence is not found in a paycheck, investment account, or emergency fund.Wise planning matters. Saving matters. Working diligently matters. But none of those things were designed to carry the weight of our ultimate security.God is our provider. As that truth moves from something we know intellectually to something we believe deeply, fear begins to loosen its grip.3. Money Is a Tool, Not a TreasureMoney is useful, but it makes a terrible master.It was never meant to provide our identity, significance, or ultimate security. Instead, money can become a tool for accomplishing good purposes—providing for our families, meeting needs, blessing others, supporting gospel work, and practicing generosity.The problem begins when the tool becomes the treasure. Jesus calls us to something infinitely greater: to treasure Him above everything money can provide.When Christ becomes our ultimate treasure, money can return to its proper place.4. Financial Decisions Can Become Acts of WorshipStewardship is about far more than giving.Every spending decision, saving goal, act of generosity, and financial plan gives us another opportunity to ask, “Lord, how can I honor You with what You’ve entrusted to me?”That changes the way we approach money.Instead of treating our finances as an isolated part of life, we begin to see them as part of our discipleship. Spending can reflect gratitude and contentment. Saving can demonstrate wisdom and preparation. Giving can express love and trust. Planning can help us faithfully fulfill our responsibilities.Money stops competing for the throne of our hearts and becomes a tool we can place in God's hands.Discovering Our Ultimate TreasureThese truths are at the heart of Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship.We wrote it to help Christians work through foundational biblical principles of money and consider how those truths shape everyday financial decisions.Our hope is that as you walk through the devotional, you’ll experience God’s peace growing where fear once lived, contentment replacing comparison, and generosity overcoming the instinct toward self-protection.In the end, money will always reveal what we treasure most. And when Christ is our ultimate treasure, we discover a freedom and security that no amount of money could ever provide.You can order Our Ultimate Treasure for yourself, your church, or your small group at FaithFi.com/Shop.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I inherited land from my parents’ trust in 2003 and sold it in 2025. I’m now facing a larger-than-expected capital gains tax bill. Does the inheritance tax exemption apply to the sale proceeds, or only to the property’s value when I inherited it?I’m considering tapping my home equity. How does a traditional HELOC compare with newer home equity-sharing arrangements, and what are the pros and cons of each?Are there policies that combine life insurance with long-term care benefits? And can those products also include an investment component, or would investing need to be handled separately?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)FaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money is Enough? Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob WestWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Where you bank may seem like a purely practical decision. We often compare interest rates, fees, convenience, and technology—and those things matter. But for Christians, banking can also be viewed through the larger lens of stewardship. Every financial decision gives us an opportunity to consider how faithfully we are managing the resources God has entrusted to us. Aaron Caid, Chief Marketing Officer at AdelFi Christian Banking, joined the show today to discuss financial discipleship, the role of Christian financial institutions, and how everyday banking decisions can support work that advances the gospel. Banking as an Act of Stewardship Biblical stewardship begins with recognizing that everything ultimately belongs to God. The money we earn, save, spend, borrow, and give has been entrusted to us to manage wisely. That perspective can shape even routine financial decisions. “For Christians, our financial decisions are an act of stewardship,” Aaron says. Whether a family is preparing for the future, a church is expanding its outreach, or a ministry is developing its budget, finances touch nearly every area of life. For a Christian financial institution such as AdelFi, that means providing practical banking tools while keeping biblical stewardship at the center of its mission. Families still need checking accounts, savings tools, loans, and credit cards. Churches and ministries still need financing and cash-management solutions. But those services can be offered with an understanding of the faith and mission behind them. Greater Capacity to Serve The strength of a financial institution matters because it affects its ability to serve its members. For families, that may mean access to resources for managing everyday expenses, building savings, and borrowing wisely. For churches and ministries, it can mean working with financial professionals who understand the unique challenges of ministry—including cash flow, property needs, growth, and long-term planning. One example came during the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Calvary Chapel South Orange County had been holding services outdoors in an outlet mall parking lot while Southern California churches faced restrictions on indoor gatherings. During that period, the congregation grew significantly and eventually became larger than its previous indoor space could accommodate. The church needed a new facility. AdelFi helped provide financing that enabled the congregation to purchase a larger property. While the transaction involved a loan, its impact went beyond dollars and cents. A larger building gave the growing church a place to gather, build relationships, worship, and continue growing together. It shows how financial resources can serve a larger purpose when deployed thoughtfully. What Is Financial Discipleship? Christian stewardship isn't ultimately about accumulating as much money as possible. Financial discipleship is about becoming increasingly faithful in the way we handle what God provides. That includes cultivating wisdom, contentment, generosity, and faithfulness. Jesus makes the connection between our finances and our spiritual lives clear in Matthew 6. He teaches that we cannot serve both God and money and reminds us, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). Our financial habits can either reinforce or compete with the priorities we profess. Practically, financial discipleship may look remarkably ordinary. It can mean following a realistic spending plan, saving for future needs, avoiding unnecessary debt, practicing generosity, and making decisions based on biblical convictions rather than simply following cultural expectations. These habits aren't ends in themselves. They help us put money in its proper place—as a tool entrusted to us rather than a master that controls us. Can Where You Bank Make a Difference? Stewardship can also raise another question: What happens to our money after we deposit it? Financial institutions use deposits to support lending and other financial activity. That means Christians may want to consider not only the products a bank offers but also the purposes their financial institution helps support. At AdelFi, members' deposits help provide resources to serve Christian families, churches, and ministries. According to Aaron, AdelFi has funded more than $1 billion in ministry real estate loans, helping churches and ministries acquire or improve facilities while pursuing financially responsible solutions. The organization also offers products designed to connect everyday financial activity with generosity. Its Cash Rewards Visa®, for example, allows members to earn cash back, while AdelFi also gives to Christian ministries and missions when members use their cards. None of this means choosing a Christian financial institution is required for faithful stewardship. Christians can honor God through many different financial arrangements. But it reminds us that stewardship invites us to think intentionally about all our financial choices—including where we bank. Bringing Faith Into Everyday Financial Decisions Faithful stewardship isn't limited to the offering plate or the major financial decisions we make a few times in life. It reaches into the ordinary. How we budget. How we borrow. How we save. How we spend. And even where we choose to keep our money can reflect what we value. The goal isn't simply to make every financial decision appear “Christian.” It's to recognize that every dollar belongs to God and then prayerfully ask how we can manage His resources with wisdom, generosity, and faithfulness. When our financial choices are shaped by that perspective, even something as routine as choosing a bank can become another opportunity to align our money with our faith. To learn more about AdelFi Christian Banking and its Cash Rewards Visa®, visit FaithFi.com/Banking. Apply by December 31 to earn a $200 bonus, plus 1.5% cash back on every purchase and other benefits. With every swipe, AdelFi also gives to Christian charities. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My husband and sister both passed away, and I received life insurance benefits from each. From a biblical perspective, should I tithe on those proceeds? Our younger daughter needs help with a down payment on property where she hopes to build a home. We’d like to help, but we still have a mortgage, only a few months of cash reserves, older vehicles, and several recent major expenses. Would helping her be wise, or would it put our own finances at too much risk? I’m retired, legally blind, and currently rent a home for $500 a month. The VA has approved grants to modify it for my needs, but my daughter thinks I should buy land and put a prefab home on it so I can build equity. Considering the added costs of ownership, would I be better off continuing to rent or buying a home? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) AdelFi Christian Banking FaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money is Enough?  Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Medicare may be one of the most important—and confusing—financial decisions you make in retirement. Between enrollment deadlines, late penalties, Medicare Advantage, Medigap, prescription coverage, and income-based premiums, there are plenty of decisions to navigate. And because some choices can have long-term financial consequences, understanding the basics before you enroll is an important part of wise stewardship. Eddie Holland, Senior Private Wealth Advisor and Partner at Blue Trust, as well as a CFP®, CPA, and Certified Kingdom Advisor®, recently joined Faith & Finance to help simplify Medicare and explain some of the most important planning considerations. Understanding Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D A good place to begin is with Medicare’s different parts. Medicare Part A primarily covers hospital-related care, including inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing care, and hospice. For people who have accumulated the required work credits through either their own employment or their spouse’s, Part A generally does not require a monthly premium. Medicare Part B covers many medical services outside the hospital, including doctor visits, lab work, and outpatient procedures. Unlike Part A, Part B generally carries a monthly premium, and higher-income retirees may pay more. Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs. Those enrolled in Original Medicare—Parts A and B—can generally purchase a separate Part D prescription drug plan. Medicare Part C, better known as Medicare Advantage, is offered through private insurance companies. These plans combine Parts A and B and often include Part D prescription coverage as well. Some plans may also offer additional benefits such as dental or vision coverage. Another option for those using Original Medicare is a Medicare supplement plan, commonly called Medigap. These private plans are designed to help cover some of the deductibles, copayments, and other expenses that Original Medicare does not pay. Pay Close Attention to Enrollment Timing Timing matters when enrolling in Medicare. Your Initial Enrollment Period generally lasts seven months: the three months before the month you turn 65, your birthday month, and the three months afterward. But turning 65 does not always mean you have to immediately leave employer-sponsored health coverage. If you or your spouse are still working and you have qualifying employer coverage, you may have access to a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to delay certain portions of Medicare without facing a late enrollment penalty. Holland notes that employer size and the nature of the coverage can affect how Medicare coordinates with the employer plan. That makes it important to speak with your employer’s benefits or human resources department before making assumptions about which coverage should come first. Employer Size Can Make a Difference If your employer has 20 or more employees, the employer health plan may generally remain the primary payer while you continue working, potentially allowing you to postpone Part B and its monthly premium. With an employer of fewer than 20 employees, Medicare may become the primary payer once you are eligible. In that situation, failing to enroll in Parts A and B could potentially leave gaps in coverage. You should also verify whether your employer’s prescription drug coverage is considered creditable coverage for Medicare purposes. That can be especially important if you plan to delay Part D beyond age 65. The larger lesson is simple: Medicare decisions should rarely be made in isolation. Your employer coverage, retirement date, spouse’s coverage, prescription needs, and other factors all need to be considered together. What Is IRMAA? For higher-income retirees, another important acronym to know is IRMAA, or the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount. IRMAA is an additional charge added to Medicare Part B and Part D premiums when modified adjusted gross income exceeds certain thresholds. For 2026, Holland notes that IRMAA begins above $109,000 in modified adjusted gross income for single filers and $218,000 for married couples filing jointly. Medicare generally bases the surcharge on the most recent tax information available, which often means looking back two years. So, for example, 2026 Medicare premiums may be based on income reported on a 2024 tax return. That two-year lookback can surprise people whose financial situation has recently changed. If your income has fallen because of certain qualifying life-changing events, such as retirement, marriage, or widowhood, you may be able to request a reconsideration of the surcharge using Social Security Form SSA-44. Roth Conversions Can Affect Medicare Premiums IRMAA can also become an important consideration when planning Roth conversions. Suppose you retire before age 65 and decide to convert a significant amount of traditional IRA money to a Roth IRA. The conversion increases your taxable income for that year. Because Medicare looks back at previous tax returns when determining IRMAA, a large Roth conversion in the years immediately preceding Medicare enrollment could lead to higher Part B and Part D premiums later. That doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t complete the conversion. It simply means you should include the potential Medicare impact in the calculation. Tax planning, retirement planning, and Medicare planning are often interconnected. A decision that makes sense in one area can create consequences in another. Be Careful With HSA Contributions Health Savings Accounts require special attention as you approach Medicare eligibility. Once you are enrolled in Medicare, you can no longer contribute to an HSA. If you enroll around age 65, you need to coordinate the end of your HSA contributions with the beginning of your Medicare coverage. The issue becomes even more important for those who enroll after age 65 because Medicare Part A coverage can sometimes be applied retroactively, potentially affecting HSA eligibility for previous months. Holland recommends understanding the retroactive period before enrolling so you don't inadvertently make excess HSA contributions. Social Security can complicate matters further. If you begin receiving Social Security benefits, you may automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A. Anyone who is still contributing to an HSA should account for that before applying for Social Security. The good news is that money already accumulated in an HSA remains tax-advantaged and can still be used for many qualified medical expenses in retirement, including certain Medicare premiums. Holland notes, however, that HSA funds cannot be used tax-free to pay Medigap premiums. What If One Spouse Reaches Medicare Age First? Married couples can face another challenge when one spouse becomes eligible for Medicare while the other is still several years away. If the older spouse continues working, the employer plan may continue covering both spouses. Some companies also provide retiree benefits that extend coverage to a younger spouse after the older spouse retires. If employer coverage isn't available, COBRA may provide temporary coverage, although it can be expensive. Another possibility is purchasing insurance through the federal or state health insurance marketplace, where the younger spouse may qualify for premium subsidies depending on household circumstances. Whatever option you choose, don't overlook the cost. If one spouse retires several years before the other reaches Medicare eligibility, higher healthcare premiums may need to become a deliberate part of the retirement budget. Make Medicare Part of Your Larger Retirement Plan Medicare isn't simply a healthcare decision. It can affect your taxes, retirement income, Social Security strategy, HSA contributions, and monthly spending. That's why careful planning before age 65 can be so valuable. Understand what each part of Medicare covers. Know your enrollment windows. Talk with your employer before leaving workplace coverage. Consider the impact of your income on Medicare premiums. And coordinate decisions involving HSAs, Roth conversions, Social Security, and your spouse's health coverage. Medicare may be complicated, but you don't have to approach it blindly. Taking the time to understand your options can help you avoid costly mistakes, choose coverage that fits your circumstances, and steward the resources God has entrusted to you with greater wisdom and confidence. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I have a mortgage and a car loan and am considering consolidating them into one payment. Is that a good idea, and what type of loan would make sense? I received a letter saying my student loans were placed in permanent disability status, but I never applied for that. How can I verify whether it’s legitimate and correct the situation if needed? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Blue Trust Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM) | Healthcare.gov  AnnualCreditReport.com  FaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money is Enough?  Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Puritan poet Anne Bradstreet once wrote, “Wisdom without an inheritance is better than an inheritance without wisdom.” Every parent hopes the resources they leave behind will bless their children. But a financial inheritance can have very different effects depending on the person receiving it. That is why wise wealth transfer requires more than simply deciding how much to leave—it requires careful thought, prayer, and an understanding of each child’s unique circumstances. Ron Blue, co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and longtime teacher on biblical stewardship, calls this the uniqueness principle. Equal Love Doesn’t Always Require Equal Treatment Studies show that many parents divide their estates equally among their children. There is certainly nothing wrong with that approach, but Ron encourages parents not to make equality the automatic default. As he explains, God loves each of His children equally, but He often treats them uniquely. The same can be true within a family. Children may grow up in the same home and sit around the same dinner table, yet adulthood can take them in very different directions. They may marry differently, parent differently, pursue different careers, experience job losses, accumulate different levels of wealth, or develop very different approaches to money. Those differences can matter when determining how an inheritance should be passed down. The question is not simply, “How can I divide everything evenly?” A better question may be, “How can I steward these resources in a way that truly benefits each child?” Three Questions to Ask Before Leaving an Inheritance When Ron and his wife, Judy, began thinking seriously about their own estate plan, they used three questions to evaluate what an inheritance might mean for each of their five children. 1. What is the worst thing that could happen? Imagine giving a particular amount of money to a particular child. How could that money negatively affect his or her life? For one child, the concern may be minimal. The money might simply be given away. For another, however, a large inheritance could create tension within a marriage, reinforce unhealthy financial habits, reduce motivation to work, or create other unintended consequences. 2. How serious would that outcome be? Not every negative possibility carries the same weight. Some may be inconvenient but manageable. Others could damage relationships, character, or financial stability. Parents should carefully consider the seriousness of each potential consequence. 3. How likely is it to happen? Finally, consider probability. A possible problem is different from a probable one. Together, these questions provide a framework for thinking beyond percentages and dollar amounts to the actual impact an inheritance could have. Your Estate Plan Should Change as Life Changes Another important part of the uniqueness principle is recognizing that circumstances rarely remain the same. When Ron and Judy first began asking these questions decades ago, their children were at very different stages of life than they are today. Careers changed. Marriages developed. Families grew. Financial circumstances shifted. As a result, Ron says the answers they would give today are very different from the answers they would have given 25 years ago. That is an important reminder: An estate plan should not necessarily be a one-time decision. As circumstances change, parents may need to revisit both their assumptions and their plans. Don’t Pass Wealth Without Passing Wisdom Underlying Ron’s approach is one of his most important principles: Don’t pass wealth unless you pass wisdom. Wealth does not automatically produce wisdom. In fact, money can magnify whatever attitudes and habits already exist. Wisdom, however, can help someone steward wealth faithfully—and even create additional resources through diligence, generosity, patience, and wise decision-making. That means preparing the next generation involves far more than preparing legal documents. Parents can begin transferring wisdom long before they transfer wealth by talking openly about stewardship, generosity, work, contentment, financial decision-making, and God’s ownership of everything. The greatest inheritance may not be the money children eventually receive, but the biblical principles they learned while their parents were still living. Faithfulness Matters More Than Fairness The uniqueness principle does not mean every estate should be divided differently. After thoughtful consideration, parents may still conclude that an equal distribution is the wisest choice. The point is not that equal is wrong or unequal is better. The point is to avoid allowing cultural expectations, guilt, fear of conflict, or simple habit to make the decision for you. Instead, approach wealth transfer prayerfully and deliberately. Ask what each child’s circumstances are. Consider what opportunities or challenges an inheritance might create. Think carefully about the consequences. Revisit those decisions as life changes. Ultimately, wealth transfer is an act of stewardship. The resources we leave behind still belong to God, and our responsibility is to manage them according to His wisdom rather than merely following human expectations. Before asking, “How can I make everything equal?” consider asking a deeper question: “What would faithfulness look like for each person God has entrusted to my care?” On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I’m 60, own two rental properties outright, rent an apartment in Chicago for $2,100 a month, and have about $1.4 million in savings and investments. My rental income is seasonal, but I haven’t had to draw from my portfolio yet. Is continuing to rent in Chicago financially reasonable, and is $1.4 million likely enough to support me long term? My wife and I are buying a new home and have about 60% of the purchase price in cash. We need the remaining 40% for only 60 to 90 days until our current paid-off home sells. Would a HELOC, bridge loan, or another short-term financing option make the most sense? Our 22-year-old daughter lives at home and has very few expenses or responsibilities. Would it be biblical and wise to start charging her rent, and how should we determine a fair amount? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) FaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money is Enough?  Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An estimated $124 trillion is expected to pass from Baby Boomers to their heirs by 2048, marking one of the largest transfers of wealth in history. And women are expected to play a particularly significant role. Sharon Epps, President of Kingdom Advisors, joined the show today to discuss this historic shift and the opportunity it presents for women to approach wealth with wisdom, preparation, and biblical faithfulness. Why Women Are at the Center of the Wealth Transfer Economists have been talking about the Great Wealth Transfer for years, but it is no longer simply a future prediction. The transfer is already underway. Women are uniquely positioned within it in part because they tend to live longer than men. As a result, many women will experience both intragenerational transfers—wealth passing from a spouse—and intergenerational transfers from parents and other family members. But inheritance is only one part of the picture. Women already earn income, manage household resources, invest, give, and make significant financial decisions. Research indicates that women are involved in approximately 94% of household purchasing decisions. That means the stewardship opportunity ahead doesn't begin when an inheritance arrives. It is already here. A Biblical Legacy of Women and Stewardship Women using financial resources to advance God’s purposes is nothing new. Luke 8:1–3 describes several women who supported Jesus and His disciples out of their own means. These women were not merely observers of Christ’s ministry. Their financial generosity helped make the work possible. Likewise, in Romans 16:1–2, Paul commends Phoebe and describes her as a benefactor of many, including himself. In a culture where women often had limited social and economic influence, Phoebe used what God had entrusted to her to serve others and help advance the gospel. Their examples remind us that financial stewardship has always been about something greater than accumulating or managing money. It is about faithfully using whatever God provides for His purposes. Faithfulness Changes With the Seasons 1 Corinthians 4:2 says, “Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” That calling applies to every believer, but the practical responsibilities of stewardship can look different in different seasons. A woman may move through seasons as a student, professional, wife, mother, caregiver, business owner, widow, retiree, or some combination of these roles. At various times, she may be an earner, an inheritor, a household financial manager, or all three. The circumstances change, but the responsibility remains: stay informed, equipped, and engaged with the resources God has entrusted to you. That can mean understanding the household finances, learning how investments work, participating in conversations about estate planning, preparing for retirement, or developing a thoughtful plan for generosity. Faithful stewardship does not require becoming a financial expert. But it does require engagement. Money as a Tool for Purpose For some women, managing finances comes naturally. Others may quickly say, “I’m just not a numbers person.” But stewardship is about much more than numbers. Money is a tool that can help us care for family, support ministries, meet needs, practice hospitality, create opportunities for others, and generously participate in work that matters to us. Seen through that lens, financial stewardship becomes less about mastering spreadsheets and more about connecting resources with purpose. Whether wealth is earned, inherited, or managed on behalf of a household, every dollar presents an opportunity to ask: How can I use what God has entrusted to me faithfully? An Opportunity for the Whole Family The Great Wealth Transfer also creates an opportunity for important conversations between husbands and wives, parents and children, and across generations. Preparing the next steward involves more than transferring assets. It means passing along wisdom. Families can begin discussing questions such as: What has God entrusted to us? What values do we want our financial decisions to reflect? How much is enough? What role should generosity play in our estate plans? Is the next generation prepared to manage what they may eventually receive? These conversations can help transform inheritance from a simple financial transaction into an intentional act of stewardship. Preparing for an Historic Stewardship Opportunity The coming wealth transfer represents an extraordinary financial moment, but for Christians, the most important question is not simply who will control the wealth. It is how that wealth will be stewarded. Women have faithfully earned, managed, given, and used resources for God’s purposes for generations. As trillions of dollars change hands in the decades ahead, women of faith have another significant opportunity to continue that legacy. The goal is not merely to receive more wealth, but to be prepared to manage God’s money God’s way—using it wisely, generously, and faithfully for the purposes He places before us. This month, FaithFi is releasing its first-ever special edition of Faithful Steward magazine, entirely focused on women stewarding wealth. When you become a FaithFi Partner, we’ll send you this special issue as our way of saying thank you for supporting the ministry. Learn more at FaithFi.com/Give. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Can you recommend a reputable Christian debt consolidation company that could help lower a large monthly payment? I’m almost 69 and plan to wait until 70 to claim Social Security. If I keep working after 70, will my benefit continue to increase, and do I still pay Social Security taxes? I also keep having to pull from savings to cover my checking account. Who can help me build a realistic budget and get my spending under control? My wife and I earn a good income but still owe taxes each year. I’ve increased my 401(k) contributions to lower taxable income. Is that the best approach, or should I adjust my withholding or set money aside for taxes? I’m 65, plan to keep working, and have about $20,000 in savings with monthly expenses around $4,000. How should I use that money to prepare for retirement? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Christian Credit Counselors FaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money is Enough?  Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.