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 Fund

Donor-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 Consider

No 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 NCF

There 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 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) 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. Speculating

Many 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 Ownership

Ownership 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 Look

In 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 Investing

In 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:

1. Customers – Are the company’s products truly good for those who use them?
2. Employees – Are they treated with dignity, fairness, and care?
3. Suppliers – Are business relationships ethical and respectful?
4. Communities – Does the company create meaningful jobs and contribute positively to local life?
5. 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.
6. 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 Investor

Many 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. John
• Eventide Asset Management
• GoodInvestor.com (Investment Screening Tool and Advisor Search)
• 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) 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 Everything

If 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 Impact

When 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 Giving

One 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 People

In 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 Tripp
• 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) 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 Generosity

You’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 Eternity

When 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 System

Everything 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 Dream

The 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 Alcorn
• Money, 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 Alcorn
• Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM)
• 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) 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 Rest

From 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 Gift

God 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 Work

Our 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 Sabbath

For 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 Flourish
• Why Your Work Matters: How God Uses Our Everyday Vocations to Transform Us, Our Neighbors, and the World by Dr. Tom Nelson
• Christian Credit Counselors
• 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) 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 Machine

Some 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 Give

So, 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 Freedom

Money 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 Joy

In 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 Purpose

When 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 Grace

If 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 Hands

Even 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 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) 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.

Did you know that over the next two decades, trillions of dollars will pass from one generation to the next?

The question is—what kind of legacy will that transfer leave behind? Today, Boyd Bailey joins us to talk about how generosity is about more than dollars—it’s about discipleship, financial literacy, and passing on wisdom along with wealth.

Boyd Bailey is the President of the National Christian Foundation (NCF) in Georgia, an underwriter of Faith and Finance. He is also the author of several books, including his latest, The Power of Generosity: Experiencing God's Amazing Abundance – How to Change the World Through Acts of Kindness.

What Makes NCF Unique

Founded in 1982 by Larry Burkett, Ron Blue, and Terry Parker, the National Christian Foundation (NCF) has helped mobilize over $21 billion for more than 90,000 charities and ministries worldwide.

From the beginning, NCF has understood that when you carry Christian in your name, you also carry a sacred responsibility. Their mission is to walk alongside believers—to help them make the most of what God has entrusted to them—and they always start with the heart.

Before discussing strategy, NCF encourages donors to discern God’s call on their generosity through prayerful consideration. Only after that heart work do they explore practical tools—how to give wisely, save on taxes, and maximize Kingdom impact.

One of NCF’s most effective tools is the Giving Fund, a type of donor-advised fund that functions like a “charitable checking account.” Even with limited tech experience, you can open a Giving Fund online in less than a minute. It makes giving spontaneous and simple—whether you’re inspired at a church service or a fundraising dinner.

But convenience isn’t the goal—discipleship is. Many families establish Giving Funds for their children, helping them embark on their own journey of generosity. And NCF encourages creative giving, too—through appreciated stock, real estate, or even a business interest—allowing donors to give more while paying less in taxes.

Generosity and Wise Stewardship

Stewardship and generosity aren’t opposites—they’re two sides of the same coin. Stewardship manages what God provides; generosity releases it for His purposes. Without generosity, stewardship is incomplete.

As Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6:17–18, believers are to “put their hope in God, who richly provides,” and to “be rich in good deeds.” Generosity, then, isn’t just about giving—it’s about protecting our hearts from the idols of wealth and security that compete for our devotion.

For those struggling to give during uncertain times, it helps to broaden the definition of generosity. It’s not limited to money—it also includes time, attention, and hospitality.

Still, fear and busyness often prevent families from discussing giving or wealth transfer. The best approach? Plan early. Invite everyone. Don’t go it alone. Bring in a trusted advisor or friend to help facilitate the conversation. Why wait until after you’re gone for your kids to experience the joy of giving? Use your influence now to model Kingdom-minded generosity.

A Simple Way to Start

As year-end approaches, consider whether an NCF Giving Fund could help you take your next faithful step in generosity. It’s simple to set up, easy to use, and profoundly impactful for both you and those you bless.

To learn more—or to open your own Giving Fund—visit FaithFi.com/NCF.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• My husband and I are helping our young adult son build credit. I’ve heard you discuss secured credit cards, but I’m also curious about whether utility bills can serve a similar purpose. You mentioned something about reporting—where does that information actually go when utilities are reported? Also, my husband and I have been debt-free for years—not even a mortgage. We share one credit card, and he was listed on it with me. We thought that would help both of our credit scores, but recently discovered that his credit disappeared. Do we need to specifically list him as an “authorized user” for it to be counted toward his credit history? I’m not sure what went wrong.
• I’m considering changing financial advisors and would like to understand the key concerns to keep in mind—whether it’s switching to a new advisor within the same company or transferring my investments to a different institution. How does that process work?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• National Christian Foundation (NCF)
• The Power of Generosity: Experiencing God's Amazing Abundance – How to Change the World Through Acts of Kindness by Boyd Bailey
• Experian Boost
• 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) 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.

Did you know your financial advisor can actually help you invest in ways that reflect your faith?

Advisors do more than just help you hit financial targets—they can also guide you in making a lasting impact with your investments. Today, Josh Bean joins us to share how to start the conversation about faith-based investing.

Josh Bean is the National Sales Manager for Praxis Investment Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

25 Years of Change in Faith-Based Investing

About 25 years ago, Praxis conducted its first major study on faith-based investing. This year, they decided to revisit that research and see how investor attitudes have evolved.

Partnering with Bellomy Market Research, the Praxis team surveyed over 1,000 individual investors and 400 financial advisors to explore the motivations, opportunities, and concerns surrounding faith-aligned portfolios.

The exciting part is that the results confirmed what they’ve believed all along: people genuinely want to align their investments with what matters most to them. You can explore the full report at PraxisInvests.com/FaithBasedInvesting.

According to the study, nearly half of all investors—48%—have already aligned their portfolios with their faith or are interested in doing so. What’s striking is that this number encompasses all investors, not just those with a religious background.

People see investing as more than performance—it’s about purpose. They want their portfolios to reflect their convictions.

The Advisor Gap: 78% Want Guidance, But Only 9% Are Asked

Perhaps the most surprising finding is the communication gap between clients and advisors.

78% of investors said it’s important for their advisor to discuss faith-aligned options, but only 9% of advisors say they actually bring it up.

That gap is one of the biggest barriers to growth. Investors are eager. Advisors often just don’t know how to start the conversation. That’s where firms like Praxis can help bridge the gap.

One reason some advisors hesitate? The lingering myth that values-driven investing means sacrificing returns.

That’s just not the case anymore. At Praxis, they aim for benchmark-like returns through diversified, optimized portfolios. They screen out approximately 15% of companies that don’t align with their values and incorporate positive impact strategies—all while closely tracking performance.

This approach isn’t just about numbers—it’s about stewardship. In the Parable of the Talents, Jesus commends the faithful servants who wisely managed what they were given. That’s our model—faithful stewardship with Kingdom impact.

An Expanding Landscape of Faith-Based Options

Faith-based investing has come a long way. What once seemed niche now includes mutual funds, ETFs, and multi-fund portfolios that reflect a range of Christian values and causes.

Investors today can build diversified, competitive portfolios entirely within the faith-based space. There are more options—and better tools—than ever before.

Among those tools are screening systems that allow investors to exclude companies that conflict with biblical values or to include those that make a positive social or environmental impact.

Taking the First Step: Talk With Your Advisor

For those new to this space, start the conversation. Ask your advisor, Can my faith be reflected in my investment strategy? That one question could open the door to an entirely new way of stewarding your money.

To help, Praxis has created a free Faith-Based Investing brochure, available at PraxisInvests.com/FaithBasedInvesting. It provides practical guidance on initiating faith-aligned conversations with your financial advisor.

And if you’d like to find a Certified Kingdom Advisor who specializes in Faith-Based Investing, you can visit FindACKA.com. 

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I’m 82 years old and recently got a cold call from someone asking if I’d like to sell my house for cash. I don’t owe anything on it—just pay for homeowners' insurance and utilities. Since God has blessed me to live mortgage-free, should I even consider their offer?
• I’m considering taking out a $20,000 loan, but I'd rather not use a home equity loan, even though my credit is good. I was thinking of a personal loan through Bank of America instead. My husband is retired, and I’m the only one working—so which option would be more cost-effective for us?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Praxis Investment Management
• Report on Faith-Based Investing from Praxis
• 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) 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.

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

Psalm 23 begins with a stunning declaration:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.” — Psalm 23:1 (NLT)

David’s words remind us that contentment doesn’t come from acquiring more but from trusting the One who provides. Just as sheep rest securely under the care of their shepherd, we can rest in God’s faithful provision.

True contentment isn’t about suppressing desire—it’s about redirecting it. When we find sufficiency in Christ rather than in money, possessions, or achievements, we’re freed from the trap of covetousness and anchored in the truth that in Him, we already have all we truly need.

The Ancient Lie of Discontentment

Discontentment has plagued humanity from the beginning. In Eden, Adam and Eve had everything they needed, yet the serpent’s lie convinced them they lacked something essential. Discontentment still whispers, “God is holding out on you—you’d be better off if you had more.”

Today, that same voice is amplified through advertising, social media, and cultural comparison. We scroll through highlight reels and feel our lives don’t measure up. But Hebrews 13:5 offers the antidote:

“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’”

The cure for discontentment isn’t having more—it’s remembering that God is always with us.

The Freedom of “Enough”

Contentment is not resignation—it’s liberation. It frees us from envy, overspending, and the crushing weight of comparison. Instead of striving endlessly for more, we learn to steward wisely what God has entrusted to us.

Proverbs 30:8–9 captures this balanced perspective beautifully:

“Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me…”

The wise steward seeks enough—not excess. When we live this way, our financial decisions change. We spend with purpose. We give with joy. We save with peace. Contentment reorients money from being our master to being a tool for God’s Kingdom.

Think of the widow of Zarephath in 1 Kings 17. With only a handful of flour and a little oil left, she faced famine. Yet when Elijah asked her to make him a cake first, she trusted God’s word—and He provided, not with overflowing barns, but with daily sufficiency.

Or consider the Macedonian believers in 2 Corinthians 8. Paul wrote,

“In a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity.”

Despite having little, they gave with glad hearts because their contentment was in Christ, not in their circumstances.

These examples remind us that contentment and generosity often go hand in hand. When we are satisfied in Christ, we’re free to bless others.

Trusting the God Who Provides

At the heart of contentment is trust. Jesus said in Matthew 6:25–26,

“Do not be anxious about your life… Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”

Contentment flows from believing that God knows what we need and delights to provide for His children. As Elisabeth Elliot once wrote, “The secret is Christ in me, not me in a different set of circumstances.”

When Christ becomes our treasure, everything else finds its proper place.

That’s why Paul could say in 1 Timothy 6:6:

“Godliness with contentment is great gain.”

Contentment isn’t a loss—it’s true gain. It’s the kind of wealth no market downturn can erase and no thief can steal. Choosing contentment doesn’t mean settling for less; it means resting in the sufficiency of Christ.

When we stop chasing “more” and start trusting God’s daily provision, we discover freedom, peace, and joy. That’s the essence of faithful stewardship—not just managing money, but aligning our hearts with the One who promises, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I own several rental properties and would like to leave one to each of my children. I still want to collect the rental income, but I’d like to avoid probate and ensure a smooth transition when I pass away. How can I set up a trust to do that, and what’s the best way to move forward?
• I got divorced in my mid-50s and had to start over from scratch. I’m now 66 with a little over $37,000 in my 401(k), which I’m eligible to roll over into an IRA. I’d really like to invest that money through a biblically based firm, but most of the ones I’ve contacted require a minimum investment of $50,000. Do you have any suggestions? And how can I build my savings over the next four years? $37,000 won’t last long.
• I’m retired, and my husband will be retiring soon. We don’t have a lot saved, but he does have a 401(k) through work. We’re unsure what to do with it or how to ensure we’ll have enough to live on in retirement. Can you help us think through the next steps?
• I work with students, and I’ve offered to invest $4,000, allowing them to choose some stocks to learn how investing works. Since I’ll keep the money but let them make the decisions, what’s the best way to buy individual stocks for this kind of project?
• My daughter’s credit score is around 625, and she’s committed to improving it. My score is over 800, and I’ve heard that adding her as an authorized user on my credit card could help her. Can you explain how that works and whether it could affect either of our credit scores?
• I feel completely lost when it comes to finances, but I want to set my family up for success. Can you recommend a reliable resource or starting point for learning the basics of managing money wisely?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Open Hands Finance
• Fidelity | Charles Schwab | Robinhood | Public | Stash | SoFi Invest
• Your Money Counts: The Biblical Guide to Earning, Spending, Saving, Investing, Giving, and Getting Out of Debt by Howard Dayton
• Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment by Ron Blue with Michael Blue
• Redeeming Money: How God Reveals and Reorients Our Hearts by Paul David Tripp
• Money, 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 Alcorn
• 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) 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.

Money and marriage—two things God designed to bless us, but they can also be two of the greatest sources of stress. What if we turned financial conflict into connection?

Dr. Shane Enete joins us today to share six creative ways couples can build stronger relationships by having intentional financial conversations—what he calls “money dates.”

Dr. Shane Enete is an Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University and founded the Biola Center for Financial Planning. He is also the author of the book Whole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy.

Why You Need to Talk About Money—Intentionally

Many couples avoid conversations about money out of fear. A study of 2,000 couples found that half of them were uncomfortable discussing money because they worried it would lead to conflict. The irony is that by avoiding those talks, the conflict only deepens.

On average, couples argue about money 58 times a year. But what if, instead of waiting for issues to flare up, you set aside regular time to talk about your finances together—proactively and prayerfully?

That’s the heart behind the idea of money dates. You might have to rip off the bandage at first, but we want to help couples make these conversations not just necessary—but enjoyable.

Turning Financial Talks Into Dates

These aren’t meant for finger-pointing but for course correction—a time to realign your financial goals with your values.

But also, why not make it a date? Dating can be a lot of fun if you’re intentional. So why not combine something enjoyable with something that’s often uncomfortable? When you connect in a fun environment, even money talk becomes more meaningful.

The key is consistency. Whether it’s over dinner, coffee, or a quiet walk, having a regular rhythm of financial connection helps you stay on the same page as a couple—and deepens your trust.

Money Date #1: Share Your Money Story

Every person brings a financial backstory into marriage—habits, fears, and attitudes shaped by family and early experiences.

Think of it as your money autobiography. Reflect on what you learned about money growing up, what messages you received from your parents, and how those experiences influence your decisions today.

Take your spouse out for dinner and share those stories. You’ll gain empathy and understanding for each other’s perspectives. When you know your partner’s money story, their spending or saving habits make a lot more sense.

Try this: Ask each other, “What’s your earliest memory of money?” The answers may surprise you—and bring you closer.

Money Date #2: Give Together

Generosity is one of the most unifying acts a couple can experience. Here are a few ways to make generosity a shared journey:

• Set a giving goal. Track your progress as a family and celebrate milestones together.
• Join a giving circle. Partner with friends or your small group to pool resources for a cause you all care about.
• Create a stretch goal. As your income grows, commit to increasing your giving percentage over time.

These conversations shift the focus from money as a source of stress to money as a means of Kingdom impact.

Money Date #3: Cook the Books

This one’s both literal and figurative! Instead of going out, stay home and cook a meal together—or grab takeout for a picnic. Use the relaxed environment to talk about your budget rhythm:

• Who tracks expenses?
• What budgeting tools or apps will you use?
• How often will you review spending?

The FaithFi app can help simplify this process. It lets couples track giving, spending, and saving all in one place—while keeping biblical wisdom at the center.

Money Date #4: Check Your Credit (at the Spa!)

Debt can carry emotional weight, so create a peaceful setting for this conversation. A spa day is perfect. It’s relaxing—and you can often find affordable day passes.

While you unwind, discuss:

• How much debt do you currently carry?
• How did your family handle debt growing up?
• What boundaries would you like to establish regarding credit use?

This isn’t about blame. It’s about caring for each other and agreeing on a plan that both of you believe in.

Money Date #5: Number Your Days

This one takes its inspiration from Psalm 90:12: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

Couples should view estate planning as an act of love. When you prepare a will, name a guardian, or establish a power of attorney, you’re doing something deeply selfless—caring for others even after you’re gone.

Spend a date identifying:

• Who will serve as executor or guardian for your children?
• How do you want your assets used to bless others?
• What legacy of faith and generosity do you want to leave behind?

Growing Together Through Financial Stewardship

Money dates are about far more than numbers. They’re about connection, empathy, and shared purpose. When couples talk about money in ways that honor God and each other, they grow in wisdom—and unity.

When you come together around money with openness and grace, you draw closer not just to each other, but to the heart of God.

———————————————————————————————————————

Dr. Enete’s full article, “Six Great Money Dates,” appears in the latest issue of Faithful Steward magazine—available to all FaithFi Partners.

When you become a FaithFi Partner with a monthly gift of $35 (or $400 annually), you’ll receive Faithful Steward magazine and other exclusive resources to help you grow as a faithful steward. Visit FaithFi.com/Partner to learn more.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I’m a single mom, 31 years old, raising my 5-year-old son without any child support. I’ve managed to save about $42,000 in a separate account, but now I’d like to start investing that money for his future. I want something safe and low-risk—something that will be there for him when he needs it. What would you recommend?
• My 27-year-old daughter has a traditional 401(k) from her previous job here in the U.S., but she’s now working overseas. She’s planning to roll her 401(k) into an IRA with Fidelity. Since she’s still young and making this move, would this be a good time to consider one of those backdoor Roth conversions you’ve discussed before?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• 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) 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.