Financial Next Steps After Losing a Spouse with Valerie Hogan

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.Start With a Spending PlanFrom the turkey to the tinsel, the holidays bring both delight and pressure. We want to give, to gather, and to make memories. But if we’re not careful, the bills that follow can overshadow the joy.Begin by setting a total spending limit. Start with what you can afford, not what you wish you could. That number becomes your guardrail for the season. You’re not being stingy—you’re being wise. Every dollar you keep out of debt stays available for future generosity.Next, divide that total into categories—food, travel, gifts, decorations, charitable giving—whatever matters most to your family. Writing it down makes the plan tangible and easier to follow.If you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, include the cost of groceries. If you’re traveling, plan for gas or airfare now so you’re not caught off guard later.Pay With Cash or DebitStudies show we spend about 30% more when paying with credit. Whenever possible, pay with cash or a debit card. If you must use a credit card, set a firm limit and stick to it.Some families even open a separate account just for holiday spending. It creates a natural boundary and helps avoid impulse purchases. There’s real freedom in knowing you’ve already decided what’s enough.Get Creative With GivingWhether it’s hosting Thanksgiving dinner or wrapping Christmas gifts, remember—it’s not about the price tag. A handwritten note, a framed photo, or a homemade pie can carry far more meaning than something store-bought.Acts 20:35 reminds us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” That blessing isn’t about the cost—it’s about the heart.If your children are old enough, invite them to help bake cookies for neighbors or make handmade gifts for grandparents. These shared experiences create memories that last far longer than the presents themselves.You can also use what you already have—redeem unused reward points or gift cards. It’s one more way to keep spending within your means.Plan Ahead for Next YearWhen January rolls around, start setting aside a little each month for the next holiday season. Even $50 a paycheck can make a big difference. By next November, you’ll be ready to give and celebrate without anxiety.If you prefer automation, set up a small transfer to a dedicated savings account. You’ll hardly notice it leaving your budget—but you’ll be grateful when the holidays return.Partner With a Faith-Based Financial InstitutionIf you’re looking for a trusted place to save, consider our friends at Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU)—a financial institution that’s been serving believers and ministries for over 68 years.They share your faith and are committed to helping you manage money in a way that honors God. Their savings accounts, digital tools, and personalized service can help you stay on track during the busiest time of the year.Right now, as a special offer to FaithFi listeners, you can receive up to a $400 bonus when you open a high-yield checking, savings, or Visa cash-back card. Visit FaithFi.com/Banking and enter the code “FaithFi” when you apply.Keep Your Focus on What Matters MostAs you prepare for Thanksgiving, take a moment to thank God for His provision. Gratitude is where wise stewardship begins. And as Christmas draws near, let your giving reflect the joy of God’s greatest gift—His Son, Jesus Christ.When we give with grateful hearts and live with margin, we reflect His generosity to the world around us. Ultimately, this creates space for what matters most: faith, family, gratitude, and the celebration of Christ’s birth.Even when finances feel tight, remember—lasting peace isn’t found in numbers or careful planning, but in resting on God’s faithful provision. That is the heart of faithful stewardship: learning to live not from scarcity, but from trust in the One who provides abundantly.And when you do, you’ll find a joy that lasts long after the holidays are over.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’ve been on and off Social Security disability after a head injury, but was later able to return to work. They kept sending me payments even after I notified them I was earning more than allowed. Now that my cancer has returned and I may need to stop working again, how should I handle this with Social Security? Should I visit their office in person to get it sorted out?My wife and I own our home outright, but have built up significant credit card debt over the past few years. We’re debating whether to take out a home equity loan or a reverse mortgage to get back on track. Which option would you recommend?We’re selling our home and deciding whether to use all the proceeds to buy our next house or invest some of them in our retirement accounts to increase our monthly income. Which choice makes the most financial sense?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU)Movement MortgageWisdom 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 workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why 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.Five Barriers to Generosity—and How to Overcome ThemGenerosity is one of the greatest marks of spiritual maturity, yet many Christians find themselves wanting to give more but feeling unable to do so. Over the years, most believers face five primary barriers to generosity. These form a kind of “pyramid,” with each level building on the one below it. The journey toward greater giving begins with the heart and ends with intentional planning.1. Spiritual Condition: The Foundation of GenerosityBefore generosity ever shows up in our bank accounts, it begins in our hearts. When we grasp who God is, who we are, and the grace that has been extended to us, generosity naturally flows from that understanding.The more we understand God’s ownership and our role as stewards, the more we want to give. Spiritual maturity is the foundation—without it, our giving will always feel like an obligation instead of an act of worship.2. Financial Health: Creating Margin to GiveEven when our hearts are in the right place, poor financial habits can make generosity difficult. Many believers simply can’t give more because they’re weighed down by debt, overspending, or disorganization.It often takes time—sometimes even years—to align our finances with our convictions. That might mean getting out of credit card debt, restructuring a business, or learning to live within our means. When we get our financial house in order, we create margin for generosity to flourish.3. Vision: Seeing Where God Is WorkingPeople don’t give to spreadsheets or buildings—they give to vision. When we can picture the impact of our giving, we’re motivated to invest more deeply.A clear vision fuels generosity. Ask yourself: Where has God stirred my heart? What Kingdom work do I feel most passionate about? When we see how our resources can change lives—whether feeding children, funding missions, or supporting local ministries—we begin to give with joy and purpose.4. Community: Encouragement from OthersGenerosity rarely happens in isolation. We need relationships that encourage us to live open-handedly. When we surround ourselves with generous people—friends who talk about giving, pray about giving, and celebrate giving—we’re inspired to do the same.Scripture reminds us that we are to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24). Community reminds us that generosity isn’t just an individual act—it’s part of how the body of Christ functions together.5. Planning: Giving with IntentionFinally, generosity grows through intentional planning. I’ve seen it over and over in my work as a financial planner: when people create a plan for their giving, their generosity increases dramatically—sometimes fivefold.A plan brings clarity and purpose. It helps you set a “finish line” for lifestyle and accumulation so you can redirect more toward eternal purposes. Without a plan, even well-intentioned believers often give sporadically or reactively. With one, generosity becomes a consistent and joyful part of life.Moving Toward Greater GenerosityThese five layers—spiritual condition, financial health, vision, community, and planning—build upon each other. Each represents a step toward living and giving as God intended.So, which one are you ready to work on today?The journey toward generosity isn’t about guilt—it’s about grace. As we align our hearts, habits, and plans with God’s purposes, we discover the joy of giving that truly reflects His character.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’m considering a reverse mortgage and wondering—if I were to get one—whether my creditors could come after the proceeds.How can younger people today start building wealth? What are some practical strategies to grow financially—and how can we stay positive and motivated when so many in our generation don’t seem to think that way?I run a small architecture business, but my income has been inconsistent over the past few years. My financial advisor suggested I take a salaried job to help pay down debt and stabilize our family’s finances. If I do that, how should I communicate with a potential employer that I’d like to keep my business on the side—and is that even wise to do?I’ve been researching digital currencies and the broader move toward electronic money. With more people, including political figures, showing support for it—and with lower fees and more direct transactions—what’s your take on where this is heading?My husband is 65 and retired, and I’m 56 and still working. I’ve heard that a spouse can collect half of the other’s Social Security benefit once they reach a certain age. Is that true, and how does it work?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Open Hands FinanceWisdom 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 workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Proverbs 21:5 reminds us:“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”No matter how steady—or unpredictable—your income is, a plan is essential.Build Your Budget on What You Know, Not What You HopeMany people make the mistake of budgeting around their best month. Wise stewardship means basing your plan on your lowest or average month, rather than your highest month.Start by reviewing your income over the past 6 to 12 months. Identify your lowest earning month, and use that as your “bare minimum” budget—what it takes to cover essentials like housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and basic giving.For example, if your income ranges from $3,000 to $6,000, plan your budget around $3,000. When you earn more, that extra income becomes your margin—money you can use to pay down debt, save, or plan ahead for slower seasons.This approach protects you from overcommitting when income drops and helps you live within your means.Create an Income-Holding AccountWhen your income arrives irregularly, timing can be just as stressful as the amount. One simple solution is to use an income-holding account.Here’s how it works:Deposit all income into one central account—your “holding tank.”Once a month, transfer your budgeted amount into your regular spending account.This method smooths out your cash flow, allowing you to “pay yourself” a steady income each month. Proverbs 27:23 gives this timeless reminder:“Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds.”In today’s world, that means knowing where your money is, where it’s going, and when it’s available.Also, if your income fluctuates, an emergency fund isn’t optional—it’s essential.Start by saving enough to cover one month’s expenses, then aim for three to six months over time. Use “boom” months to grow your buffer before adding new spending. When slower seasons come, you’ll be able to keep paying yourself consistently.Differentiate Between Fixed and Flexible ExpensesAnother key to managing a variable income is learning to distinguish between fixed and flexible expenses.Fixed expenses—like rent, insurance, and loan payments—stay the same.Flexible expenses—like dining out, entertainment, or travel—can adjust with your income.During lean months, trim flexible spending. When income increases, you can replenish your savings or increase your giving. Remember, self-control is one of the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23), and that includes how we handle our finances.One of the easiest ways to get off track is through “surprise” expenses that shouldn’t be surprises—car repairs, insurance premiums, or property taxes.List all your irregular expenses for the year and divide each by twelve. Set that amount aside monthly in a sinking fund, so when those bills come, you’re ready. No scrambling. No stress. Just peace that comes from faithful planning.Trust the Provider, Not the PaycheckEven when your income is unpredictable, God is not. Matthew 6 reminds us that our Heavenly Father knows what we need before we ask. He feeds the birds and clothes the flowers—and He will provide for His children.So whether your income changes weekly or seasonally, rest in this truth: stability isn’t found in your paycheck—it’s found in God’s faithful provision.If you’re ready to build a flexible, faith-filled budget, the FaithFi app can help. It offers tools to manage cash flow, track spending, and grow as a faithful steward of God’s resources.Learn more at FaithFi.com by clicking “App” or searching for FaithFi in your app store.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’ve been able to save about $170,000 and add around $10,000 each month. Once I reach $200,000, I’d like to start investing $10,000 a month in something with greater growth potential, even if it carries a bit more risk. Right now, I’m earning about 4% at the bank. What would be a wise next step for that money?I’ve just moved into an independent living facility and am in the process of selling my condo, which should close soon. I’ll need the proceeds to help cover my living expenses, but I’m wondering—how should I handle tithing on that money?I just wanted to express my gratitude for the way you and your team share wisdom so respectfully and thoughtfully. Listening to your program has really deepened my understanding and helped me grow.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom 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 workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Grief and Finances Are Deeply ConnectedWhen grief hits, clarity often disappears. You may feel pressure to “get everything settled” or, on the other hand, find it impossible to make even small decisions. Both reactions are normal.Grief colors everything. It’s difficult to separate financial choices from emotional pain. And that’s okay. The key is to give yourself permission not to have all the answers right away.Statistics show that about 80% of women will outlive their husbands. That means most of us will one day find ourselves managing finances alone. And many women, especially from earlier generations, weren’t as involved in financial decisions during marriage.After loss, that reality can be intimidating. Suddenly, you’re faced with choices about investments, taxes, home maintenance, and budgets—often with less income and more years of life ahead. Those early months matter, but they shouldn’t be rushed.Start with This Truth: God Owns It AllBefore any practical steps, I want to anchor you in a truth that has carried me and countless others through difficult seasons: God owns it all.Everything we have belongs to Him, and He is with us as we steward it. Remembering that doesn’t erase the pain, but it reminds us we’re not alone. It shifts the weight of control off our shoulders and invites God’s wisdom into our decisions.That truth gives us permission to move slowly and prayerfully. Stewardship is not about perfection—it’s about trust.Steps for Navigating the Early DaysHere are some guiding steps I often share with widows who ask, “Where do I even begin?”1. Take One Step at a TimeYou don’t need to fix everything today. Unless a change is absolutely urgent, give yourself space to rest and recover. Grief has a way of making even simple tasks feel monumental. Be patient with yourself.2. Avoid Major Financial Moves Too SoonTry not to make significant financial decisions while emotions are raw. Some women have sold homes, moved away, or invested large sums during intense grief—only to regret it later. Wait until your heart is steadier before making big changes.3. Get Organized, Little by LittleLoss often leaves behind a mountain of paperwork. Start small—maybe one pile, one folder, one hour. Ask a trusted friend or advisor to help if it feels overwhelming. Progress comes one decision at a time.4. Track What’s Coming In and Going OutAwareness brings peace. You don’t have to overhaul your budget immediately—just begin noticing where money is going. Clarity grows with consistency.5. Lean on Trusted AdvisorsChoose people who will look out for your best interest—those with integrity and experience, not pressure or sales motives. A trusted financial planner, attorney, or advisor can help you think clearly when emotions run high.6. Anchor Everything in PrayerThis is the most important step. God cares deeply when His people are hurting. Invite Him into every conversation, every decision, every bill you open. He is your provider and your comforter.Build a “Personal Board of Directors”Form a personal board of directors—a small circle of wise people you can lean on for different kinds of counsel.You might include:A spiritually mature friend who prays with youA financial professional with integrityAn encourager who helps you stay hopefulA practical helper who can sit with you through paperworkEach one brings something valuable. Just remember: not every encourager is a financial guide, and not every advisor is a prayer partner. Surround yourself with a balanced mix of wisdom and compassion.Know It. Own It. Like It. Change It.In their book Wise Women Managing Money, Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan use a simple four-part framework that applies beautifully here:Know it—Gather the facts. What do you own? What do you owe?Own it—Accept responsibility for your new role as steward.Like it—Evaluate your current situation honestly.Change it—Begin making small, steady adjustments that align with your goals and faith.You don’t need to have it all figured out. Start by knowing where you are—and trust that God will guide each next step.If you’ve recently lost your spouse, please hear this: there are brighter days ahead. It may not feel that way now, but God will give you strength and wisdom in time. I’ve seen hundreds of widows rebuild, heal, and even thrive again.Take one step at a time. Pray often. Surround yourself with wise, loving people. And remember—you’re not alone.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:A friend once told me they only tip 10% at restaurants, so they don’t end up giving a server more than they give to God. Now that’s stuck with me—every time I eat out, I think about it. Am I looking at this the wrong way? What’s the right, biblical way to think about tipping and giving?I recently set up a trust, and I own two homes—one’s paid off and the other still has a mortgage. Both properties are titled in my name. Do I need to transfer or re-deed those homes into the trust, or can I leave them as they are since they’re already in my name?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan, J.D. Widow ConnectionWisdom 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) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If 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 Is a Donor-Advised Fund?Think of a DAF as a charitable checking account designed to support the causes you care about. You contribute cash, stock, or other assets, receive an immediate tax deduction, and then recommend grants to ministries or charities on your timetable.In other words, it separates the act of giving from the act of distributing. You might contribute during a high-income year or before selling an asset to take advantage of tax benefits, while taking time to decide where those dollars should go prayerfully.Behind the scenes, your DAF is managed by a sponsoring organization. At FaithFi, we recommend the National Christian Foundation (NCF)—one of the largest and most trusted Christian providers, founded by Larry Burkett and Ron Blue. NCF handles the record-keeping, issues the grants, and provides online tools to manage your giving.Suppose you plan to sell a business or a piece of real estate that would normally result in a significant capital gain. By donating it to your donor-advised fund before the sale, you can avoid paying capital gains tax, allowing more of the donation to go directly to Kingdom purposes.You receive an immediate tax deduction for the full value of your gift since it’s considered an irrevocable charitable contribution. The funds can be invested for potential growth while you prayerfully decide which ministries to support—or you can give immediately.When you’re ready, you simply recommend a grant, such as $10,000, to your church or a mission organization. The DAF sponsor verifies the charity and then sends the gift—either in your name or anonymously.The Benefits of a Donor-Advised FundDonor-advised funds have become the fastest-growing vehicle for charitable giving in America, and for good reason. They combine flexibility, simplicity, and intentionality—all with a focus on Kingdom impact.Here are some of the key advantages:Simplicity – One contribution can fund all your charitable giving, with a single tax receipt and one dashboard to track every grant.Tax Efficiency – Receive your deduction when you contribute, not when you give. Donating appreciated assets can help avoid capital gains taxes, increasing the amount that goes to ministry.Flexibility – Give now and decide later where the funds should go, allowing generosity even as you discern where God is leading.Legacy Planning – Name successors—such as children or grandchildren—to carry on your legacy of generosity.Focus on Mission – Since the administration is handled for you, you can focus your energy on prayerfully deciding where to give.Important Limitations to ConsiderNo giving tool is perfect. Here are a few things to keep in mind:Irrevocability – Once you contribute to a DAF, it’s a completed gift—you can’t take the funds back.Qualified Recipients – Grants can only be made to IRS-approved charities, not individuals or political causes.Timing of Impact – Funds can remain in the account for years, which may delay charitable impact.At FaithFi, we encourage believers to use DAFs for timely generosity rather than indefinite storage. A DAF is meant to organize your giving, not to hold back what God has already called you to release.Why FaithFi Recommends NCFThere are many donor-advised fund providers—but not all share your faith commitments. That’s why we recommend the National Christian Foundation (NCF).NCF doesn’t just process gifts; they walk with donors in prayer and biblical wisdom. Their Giving Funds simplify generosity, reduce tax burdens, and amplify Kingdom impact. They can even accept complex, non-cash gifts, such as real estate, business interests, or agricultural assets.More importantly, NCF’s team seeks to help every believer become a joyful, generous steward who advances the Gospel through wise giving.To learn more or to open your own Giving Fund, visit FaithFi.com/NCF. You can set up your fund in just minutes. And if you’d like a trusted financial advisor to guide you in the process, visit FindaCKA.com.At the end of the day, a donor-advised fund is just a tool—but in the hands of a faithful steward, it becomes a powerful way to partner with God in His work.When our giving flows from gratitude and trust, every dollar becomes a declaration: God owns it all, and we are His stewards.That’s what it means to give with joy, wisdom, and eternal purpose.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband was recently diagnosed with a serious health condition, and we’re trying to decide whether it’s wise to downsize our home. We currently owe about $198,000, but we’re also looking at another house for $137,500. With today’s interest rates, we could do a 15-, 20-, or 30-year loan. If my husband’s income were to go away, would it be smarter to stay where we are or move to the smaller home with a lower payment?I’m 61 and wondering whether I should withdraw money from my 401(k) to pay off my car loan instead of taking out a new one. I’ve been looking at my budget and income, and I’m not sure if that’s the best move. What do you think?My husband recently passed away. He had an IRA worth a little under $70,000, and I have one too. My financial advisor suggested that I roll his IRA into mine—can I do that, and would that be the best approach? Also, our home is in an irrevocable living trust. Am I allowed to sell it, or does it have to stay in the trust?Our term life insurance policy is set to expire soon. We could cash it out or roll it into a whole life policy, but we already have enough life insurance. With a child heading to college in about a year and a half, we’re wondering if there’s a smart way to put that money into savings for college without taking a big tax hit.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)National Christian Foundation (NCF)Wisdom 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) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.Investing vs. SpeculatingMany people confuse investing with speculating. Speculating—like day trading—is often no different than gambling. It’s focused on short-term gains, trying to predict what the market will do tomorrow. But investing is about ownership. When you buy a stock, you’re buying a piece of a company. You become a co-owner.That means your money is participating in real work—serving customers, employing people, and creating products that impact lives. As Christians, we should invest in companies we believe are doing good for the world, not just generating profits.Speculation is reactive and anxious. Investing, when done faithfully, allows us to rest in the knowledge that our capital is working toward purposes aligned with God’s design for flourishing.The Responsibility of OwnershipOwnership changes everything. It confers ethical responsibility.If you owned a neighborhood store, you’d care deeply about how it serves your community, treats employees, and impacts the environment. In the same way, being a shareholder means you share in both the profits and the moral implications of what that company does.That’s why Eventide Asset Management believes that Christians must think like owners, not traders. Ownership means engaging thoughtfully with the companies we invest in—voting proxies, engaging in dialogue with management, and ensuring that our capital is stewarded with integrity. Our investing isn’t just about earning; it’s about embodying our faith in the marketplace.Why Passive Investing Deserves a Closer LookIn recent years, many investors have turned to index funds or “passive” strategies. While these offer simplicity and diversification, I believe we should pause and ask: What are we actually owning?As Christians, we can’t do anything passively—not even investing. Romans 12:2 calls us to avoid conforming to the patterns of this world, to renew our minds, and to discern what is good. That means we can’t blindly invest in every company just because it’s part of a market index.Do we really want to profit from industries like pornography, abortion, gambling, or tobacco? Our calling is to pursue good profits—profits that come from serving others and honoring God.To meet that need, Eventide has created systematic ETFs—investment funds that provide broad market exposure while intentionally excluding harmful industries. They’re designed for believers who want to participate in the market without compromising biblical conviction.The Neighbor Map: Loving People Through InvestingIn his book, The Good Investor, Robin shares something he calls the Neighbor Map—a framework that helps us see all the “neighbors” affected by a business.God’s command to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19) isn’t abstract. It applies to the business world. At Eventide, they have identified six key neighbors every company should serve:Customers – Are the company’s products truly good for those who use them?Employees – Are they treated with dignity, fairness, and care?Suppliers – Are business relationships ethical and respectful?Communities – Does the company create meaningful jobs and contribute positively to local life?The Environment – Is creation being stewarded well? Caring for creation is one of the most direct ways to love the poor, because it’s the poor who suffer most from pollution and neglect.Society – Is the company contributing to the flourishing of the broader culture?Faithful investing isn’t only about avoiding harm—it’s also about embracing good. When we invest in companies that love their neighbors well, we participate in God’s ongoing work of restoration.As investors, we’re not distant spectators. We’re partners. At Eventide, they engage directly with the companies we invest in—raising concerns, asking hard questions, and encouraging leadership to act with wisdom and compassion.Their goal isn’t confrontation—it’s collaboration. Whether it’s addressing supply chain ethics, employee safety, or corporate philanthropy, we approach these conversations as co-owners who want to see good companies become even better.Clarity for Every Christian InvestorMany believers are unaware of what their money supports. That’s why the team at Eventide created GoodInvestor.com—a free tool that allows you to screen your portfolio and see exactly what you’re investing in. You can also connect with advisors who understand faith-based investing and can help you align your portfolio with your convictions.We hope that Christians everywhere would invest with joy, clarity, and confidence—knowing that their capital is serving God’s purposes in the world. When we invest, we’re not just moving money—we’re shaping the world. Every dollar we deploy carries moral and spiritual weight.Our prayer is that more believers would see investing as a form of worship—a way to love God and neighbor through the stewardship of capital. Together, we can build a world that rejoices, where profits are good, people are valued, and creation is honored.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Back in 2010, my parents set up a life estate warranty deed for their home, adding my siblings and me to the deed. My mom passed away eight years ago, and my dad passed in December 2024. We’re preparing to sell the house now, but I keep hearing that we need to use a “life expectancy table” to calculate the home’s value for capital gains or losses. Can you explain how that works and what steps we’ll need to take for the taxes?I’ve saved up three months’ worth of income—about $2,300 in total—and I still owe around $500 on a HELOC and another $500 on a credit card with interest rates of about 7% and 8.9%. My question is: Should I treat my savings separately from my three-month emergency fund? For example, if something unexpected happens—like a car repair—I don’t want to touch my emergency fund. Is there a certain percentage or guideline for how much should be in an emergency fund versus regular savings?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)The Good Investor: How Your Work Can Confront Injustice, Love Your Neighbor, and Bring Healing to the World by Robin C. JohnEventide Asset ManagementGoodInvestor.com (Investment Screening Tool and Advisor Search)Wisdom 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) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The 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.A Simple Question That Changes EverythingIf you’ve ever wondered what true generosity looks like, it’s often simpler—and closer to home—than we think. Generosity isn’t measured by dollar amounts or estate plans; it’s written on the faces and in the actions of people who live with open hearts.In fact, if you ask someone a simple question like this, you will move their hearts more than you know:“Think about the most generous person you know. What do they look like? What’s their countenance? Their posture?”Take a moment to picture them. Chances are, their face lights up your mind’s eye. They’re probably joyful, peaceful, genuine—and not necessarily wealthy. That’s because generosity is about heart, not income. It’s about presence, not possessions.When we make generosity personal, it changes us. We stop thinking in abstract ideas and start remembering real people who gave freely of themselves—and in doing so, reflected the heart of Christ.When this question is asked, the answers are often the same: a grandparent, an aunt, an uncle—someone who gave of themselves through love, laughter, and listening. These aren’t people who built foundations or donated millions. They modeled generosity through steady love and consistency.That’s what long-term generosity looks like. It starts at home and grows outward.Redefining Long-Term ImpactWhen we hear “long-term impact,” our minds often jump to wills, trusts, or endowments. Those are important tools, but they’re not the whole story. True long-term impact happens when we invest our lives, not just our assets.Every day, we have the chance to sow generosity through acts of service, hospitality, and encouragement. These simple seeds—when planted faithfully—bear fruit that outlasts any financial gift because they grow in people’s hearts.If you long to leave a legacy of generosity, start small.Serve one person this week. Ask God to show you where you can listen, encourage, or help.Be steady and intentional. Generosity grows through daily habits, not grand gestures.Practice generosity with time and words. The way you invest relationally today can change someone’s tomorrow.Over time, those small acts of faithfulness will shape the kind of life others remember as generous.Generosity is most powerful when it’s shared. Families that give together cultivate hearts that reflect God’s heart. Take your children with you when you serve at a food pantry. Let them see generosity in action. Talk about giving not as an obligation but as a joyful response to God’s grace.A Practical Tool for GivingOne practical way to make giving intentional is through a donor-advised fund—or what our friends at the National Christian Foundation call a Giving Fund. It’s like a charitable checking account where you can deposit money now and prayerfully decide later how to distribute it.Opening one is quick and easy, and it’s a great way to involve your children or grandchildren in deciding where to give. You can learn more or start one in under five minutes at FaithFi.com/NCF.Generosity Flows Toward PeopleIn the end, generosity isn’t about how much we give—it’s about who we’re becoming. It’s not just an act; it’s a lifestyle. When our generosity flows toward people instead of possessions, we participate in God’s ongoing story of redemption.That’s the kind of impact that lasts far beyond our lifetime.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I really want to honor God with my giving. I’ve been thinking about donating to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and to my local church. Should I split my giving between the two, or focus everything on my church?I called about Qualified Charitable Distributions before, and your explanation helped—but I’m still not sure I understand them. At age 70, it seems like you lose out on any interest or growth from that money, and you can’t take a tax deduction. So why would anyone do a QCD at that age? Would it ever make sense to take money from a Roth IRA instead? And are there income levels where a QCD just doesn’t make sense?How can I strike the right balance between managing my money wisely and living with radical generosity?I have about $100,000 invested across the S&P 500, NASDAQ, and Dow, but I’m wondering if that’s too risky. Would it be safer to put everything into the S&P 500, or is there a better approach? At 76, should I shift more into bonds—and if so, what kind would you recommend?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)National Christian Foundation (NCF)Redeeming Money: How God Reveals and Reorients Our Hearts by Paul David TrippWisdom 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) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.Simplicity That Leads to GenerosityYou’ve likely heard the phrase, “Live simply, that others may simply live.” It’s a short sentence with a world of meaning behind it—and one that feels increasingly relevant today.Everywhere we look, we see need. It’s been that way ever since sin entered the world, but now the sheer scale is staggering—billions of people living in poverty, lacking food, clean water, or access to opportunity. When we consider this, it should be shocking to see how much of a difference it would make if those of us who follow Jesus simply chose to live on less—so that we could give more.This isn’t about rejecting good gifts or living in asceticism. It’s about reordering our priorities so that what God provides doesn’t end with us. Living simply creates margin. And that margin can fuel generosity that transforms lives, both now and for eternity.Some people hear “simplicity” and think of minimalism for its own sake—going off the grid, cutting out every comfort, or proudly living with as little as possible. But simplicity by itself accomplishes very little.You could live the simplest life imaginable, and still not help anyone. The goal isn’t simplicity—it’s purposeful simplicity that opens the door to generous living.If God blesses you with wealth, there’s no shame in that. In fact, that’s a great opportunity. The question isn’t how much do you have?—but what are you doing with what you have? Go ahead and earn well, but then invest it in God’s Kingdom. Use what He’s entrusted to you to love Him and to love others.That’s where simplicity finds its true purpose—in freeing you to give more boldly, more joyfully, and more eternally.Seeing Life Through the Lens of EternityWhen Jesus said, “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven,” He wasn’t speaking in riddles. He was revealing a reality that reshapes everything we own. But if we have no concept of Heaven—if we’re not eager for the life to come—then treasures in Heaven won’t mean much to us.Scripture promises that God will one day bring Heaven down to Earth—the new Earth, a renewed creation where righteousness dwells. That’s our forever home. That’s the world we were made for.When we live in light of that eternal perspective, it changes how we view possessions today. Why cling to what’s temporary when you can invest in what lasts forever? The things of this world fade—but what’s given to God’s purposes endures.For many of us, money and possessions have enormous mass. But when we give generously, we shift our center of gravity from earth to eternity. We begin to orbit around God’s Kingdom rather than our own comfort. That’s freedom.Becoming God’s Delivery SystemEverything we have comes from God—and it’s meant to flow through us, not stop with us. I like to say we’re not buckets, we’re pipelines. God’s resources are meant to move through our lives to accomplish His purposes.If the FedEx driver delivered a package to himself instead of the intended recipient, we’d say he misunderstood his job. And yet, that’s what many of us do with God’s provision. We assume it’s all for us when in reality, we’re the delivery system for His grace.The Bible says, “Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2) Faithful stewards don’t hoard. They pass along what belongs to the true Owner.We’ve all heard the phrase, “God owns it all.” But do we live like it’s true? If we really believe that everything we have belongs to Him, then generosity isn’t a burden—it’s obedience.That changes how we think about earning, saving, and spending. It means asking, “Lord, what do You want us to do with Your money?” That’s stewardship in its purest form—managing God’s resources for God’s glory.Living for the Kingdom, Not the DreamThe Bible doesn’t pit generosity against joy. In fact, they belong together. Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6 that God gives us all things richly to enjoy, even as he warns us about materialism.God delights in our joy. He gives good gifts. But He also invites us to hold them loosely. Take that vacation. Enjoy a good meal. But let gratitude and generosity flow together.Living simply doesn’t mean rejecting enjoyment. It means finding joy in what pleases God most—seeing our resources advance His Kingdom and bless others in His name.It’s easy to justify excess when someone else always seems to have more. But if we’re not careful, we can baptize greed in the name of the American dream.God calls us to something far richer—a life rooted in gratitude, freedom, and Kingdom purpose. Living simply and giving generously keeps our hearts anchored in eternity and our hands open to bless others.That’s not loss. That’s joy. That’s freedom. That’s treasure that lasts forever.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’m 72 years old, still teaching at a state school, and I’d like to resume making payments on my student loans. They’ve been in deferment, so I haven’t been able to make my regular $100-a-month payments. Is there any way I can make those payments? I’ve been told my loans won’t qualify for forgiveness until I start paying on them.My husband and I are 55 and 56, and we own a business along with several rental properties. We have about $500,000 we’d like to invest, and we’re considering a hybrid life insurance policy with a benefit access rider for long-term care. We’d put in about $155,000 for a guaranteed $250,000 death benefit each, for a total of $500,000, plus any growth. What do you think about that kind of approach?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Heaven: A Comprehensive Guide to Everything the Bible Says About Our Eternal Home (Clear Answers to 44 Real Questions About the Afterlife, Angels, Resurrection, and the Kingdom of God) by Randy AlcornMoney, Possessions, and Eternity: A Comprehensive Guide to What the Bible Says about Financial Stewardship, Generosity, Materialism, Retirement, Financial Planning, Gambling, Debt, and More by Randy AlcornEternal Perspective Ministries (EPM)Wisdom 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) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.God’s Design for Both Work and RestFrom the very first pages of Scripture, we see that God’s creation design includes both work and rest. These are not competing ideas but complementary rhythms woven into what it means to bear God’s image. Yet in our culture, it’s easy to emphasize one and neglect the other. We celebrate hard work—and rightly so—but often ignore the equally important gift of rest.Genesis 2 begins not with human work, but with divine rest. “By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested” (Genesis 2:2). God didn’t rest because He was weary. He rested to delight in His creation and to model for us a rhythm of life that mirrors His own.Sabbath is a gift. It’s not an obstacle to productivity but an invitation to communion with our Creator. From the Garden of Eden to the Ten Commandments, from Jesus' ministry to the promise of the new creation, the thread of Sabbath runs through the entire story of Scripture.When we honor that rhythm—six days of labor and one day of holy rest—we experience an echo of Eden and a foretaste of eternity, when we will work and rest in perfect harmony with God.Rediscovering Sabbath as a GiftGod designed us for a relationship with Himself and with one another. Sabbath helps us recalibrate those relationships. It reorders our hearts around love, not accomplishment. The Triune God invites us to rest so that our hearts might be re-centered on intimacy with Him rather than on our own achievements.That’s what Sabbath is really about: not simply stopping our work, but remembering who sustains it. It reminds us that the primary calling of our lives is not to do for God, but to be with God.For many of us, we may see Sabbath as optional—something good in theory but impossible in practice. However, neglecting rest affects our spiritual formation, our relationships, and even our physical and emotional health.Sabbath is not a duty; it’s a grace. It’s not legalism; it’s life. Sabbath is God’s way of teaching us to steward not just our resources, but our time. We often speak of stewarding our time, talent, and treasure, yet forget that time itself is one of God’s greatest gifts.We may think of Sabbath as “rest from work,” but we should really view it as “work from rest.” Our week should flow out of the rest we receive—not the other way around.Guarding Against the Idolatry of WorkOur work matters deeply to God. But like all good things, it can become disordered. When we place our identity, meaning, or security in what we accomplish, work becomes an idol. Sabbath protects us from that idolatry.By resting, we declare that God—not our productivity—sustains the world. Sabbath breaks the cycle of self-reliance and teaches us to trust the One who never sleeps. It frees us to delight in beauty, to nurture relationships, and to experience renewal in body and soul.Many people say, “That sounds wonderful, but you don’t know my schedule.” Between raising children, leading organizations, and building businesses, the idea of a day of rest can feel unrealistic.But Sabbath is not a test of devotion—it’s an act of grace. Jesus said, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27). God gives us this rhythm for our good. So start small. Begin with an afternoon. Disconnect from technology. Step away from the endless noise and hurry. Give your soul permission to breathe.As you do, you’ll find that rest becomes not a luxury, but a necessity. You’ll also discover that Sabbath rhythms bear witness to a watching world—an act of quiet evangelism declaring that our trust is in God’s provision, not our own effort.A Practical Picture of SabbathFor many, Sunday naturally serves as a Sabbath—a day centered on corporate worship and community. Begin the day in God’s Word. Gather with your church family to worship and remember the gospel. Then build the rest of the day around delight: time with loved ones, enjoying nature, sharing meals, or simply slowing down.Sabbath isn’t about inactivity; it’s about being present—to God, to others, and to the world He made. It’s a day of delight, not productivity—a time to remember that we are human beings, not human doings.Without Sabbath, those we love often receive only our leftovers—whatever energy remains after six days of striving. But when rest becomes part of our rhythm, our relationships deepen. We offer the people closest to us not exhaustion, but joy.Sadly, when people face burnout or relational breakdown, Sabbath is almost always missing. Rest is essential to wholeness.Ultimately, Sabbath points us to Jesus Himself—the Lord of the Sabbath. He invites us, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). That invitation is not just for a day each week—it’s for every day of our lives.When we rest, we remember that the world is not upheld by our effort but by His grace. True rest is not found in the absence of work but in the presence of Christ.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Our new community ministry is only about 25% funded right now, but we’d really like to launch it in a biblically sound way. As a leadership team, how should we move forward with that?A debt settlement counselor is offering to settle $36,000 of debt for $29,000, with monthly payments of $575 over 52 months. That adds up to just $29,000 total. Is this legitimate—or does it sound like a scam?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Made to FlourishWhy Your Work Matters: How God Uses Our Everyday Vocations to Transform Us, Our Neighbors, and the World by Dr. Tom NelsonChristian Credit CounselorsWisdom 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) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.Many people hear the phrase “give to receive” and imagine a divine transaction: give to God or others, and blessings—perhaps even financial—will return. But biblically, generosity is never a get-rich scheme. It’s an invitation to live the kind of life God designed for us—a life marked by open hands and open hearts.God’s Kingdom Is Not a Vending MachineSome interpret verses like Luke 6:38 (“Give, and it will be given to you”) as a spiritual formula: “If I give, God owes me something.” But this is a distortion of Jesus’ teaching. God isn’t running a cosmic vending machine where our dollars purchase His favor.Instead, He invites us to live differently—to find life not in what we keep but in what we release. If money itself were the ultimate reward, God would be reinforcing the very idol He seeks to break in our hearts. Jesus reminds us in Luke 12:15, “One’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.” That truth echoes through every page of Scripture: generosity is not about loss—it’s about liberation.What We Actually Receive When We GiveSo, if giving isn’t transactional, what does Scripture say we receive in return? The Bible highlights three beautiful gifts that generosity brings.1. We Receive FreedomMoney has a unique power to capture our hearts. Jesus warned, “You cannot serve God and money” (Matthew 6:24). Every act of generosity is a declaration of allegiance: we are not owned by our wealth. Giving loosens money’s grip and frees us to serve a greater Master.2. We Receive JoyIn Acts 20:35, Paul quotes Jesus saying, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” True joy doesn’t come from what we accumulate—it comes from participating in God’s generosity. John Bunyan put it this way: “You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.”3. We Receive PurposeWhen we give, we join God’s mission in the world. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9:11, “You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way.” The goal isn’t self-enrichment—it’s being a conduit of blessing. Generosity connects our story to God’s story, reminding us that every resource we have is meant to reflect His generous heart.Giving Flows from GraceIf we’re honest, our motives for giving can become mixed. We might give to feel good, earn approval, or to gain favor with God. But the gospel frees us from all of that. Ephesians 2:8–10 makes it clear: we’re saved by grace, not by works. Our generosity is not a means of earning God’s love—it’s a response to already having it.Once we understand that truth, giving transforms from obligation into worship. We don’t give to get something back. We give because we’ve already received everything in Christ.At the center of our faith stands Jesus—the One who gave everything. Paul captures it beautifully in 2 Corinthians 8:9:“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.”Jesus didn’t give to gain something for Himself. He gave because of love. Through His sacrifice, we received reconciliation with God and eternal life in His Kingdom—riches far beyond material wealth.When our giving mirrors His, our motivation becomes love, not return. And in that kind of giving, we experience the true riches of life in Christ.Living With Open HandsEven when generosity brings blessing, the return is never shallow or predictable. We don’t give to multiply our possessions—we give to multiply love, freedom, and trust.Every act of giving draws us deeper into God’s life—freeing us from greed, filling us with joy, anchoring us in purpose, and reminding us that He is our ultimate treasure.The world says, “Give so you can get.” The gospel says, “Give because you’ve already been given everything.”When we live with open hands, we discover that the richest life is the one fully surrendered to God.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My wife had student loans before we got married, and the balance has now grown to about $65,000. I didn’t realize how much debt she had until recently, and it’s been hard to manage on our income—especially since her payments are currently set to $0 through an income-based repayment plan. How should we approach this situation, and what can we do to manage or reduce this debt given our financial limitations?I’ve been giving to my church using funds from my Required Minimum Distribution, even though I’m still working. Someone recently asked why I’m taking RMDs if I’m not yet required to. Do I have to take RMDs from my retirement plan while I’m still employed, or do the rules only apply to my IRA?I have both a Roth IRA and a brokerage account that I’d like to transfer to a new investment firm. The accounts have been open for more than five years. If I move my Roth IRA, does that five-year clock restart, or does the time I’ve already had it stay intact?I recently received an inheritance of about $200,000 after my father’s passing. My mortgage balance is around $175,000. I don’t have any other debt, but I do have five kids at different stages of life, including some in college, and I haven't saved much for retirement. Should I use the inheritance to pay off the mortgage and invest the remaining amount, or keep the mortgage and invest the entire amount for the future? What’s the best move for my family right now?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom 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) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.