With college costs rising faster than inflation, many families feel cornered—scrambling for scholarships, stretching savings, or bracing for years of student loan payments. But there’s one meaningful option that often gets overlooked: military service.

For students who feel led to serve, military pathways can provide full tuition, a monthly stipend, and exceptional leadership development—all while graduating debt-free. Today, we sat down with Matt Bell, Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, to explore how these programs work and who they’re best suited for.

Matt brings a personal connection to this topic. One of his sons is currently attending the U.S. Air Force Academy, and his insight helped illuminate both the opportunity—and the responsibility—this path entails.

Why Military Education Pathways Are Often Missed

For the right student, military service can be a remarkable way to fund higher education. And that qualifier matters.

As Matt shared, these programs are designed for students who are willing to serve their country and take on demanding challenges. In return, the military offers generous education benefits through several primary pathways—most notably the U.S. Service Academies and the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC).

Beyond the financial benefits, these programs offer leadership training and real-world experience that traditional colleges can’t replicate. Matt mentioned that his son is currently choosing between summer programs such as jump school, where cadets learn to parachute, and soaring school, which involves flying gliders. Those aren’t exactly typical college electives.

The U.S. Service Academies: What Families Should Know

There are five U.S. Service Academies:

• U.S. Military Academy (West Point)
• U.S. Air Force Academy
• U.S. Naval Academy
• U.S. Coast Guard Academy
• U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

At each academy, tuition, room, and board are fully covered, and students receive a monthly stipend. But admission is highly competitive. Some academies have acceptance rates as low as 9–10%.

Applicants are evaluated holistically. Strong academic performance, high SAT or ACT scores, physical fitness, athletic participation, and demonstrated leadership all matter. Character is essential as well—letters of recommendation play a key role.

And then there’s one more hurdle: a nomination from a member of Congress or the Vice President (required for all academies except the Coast Guard). That process alone requires early planning and persistence.

Graduates of the service academies don’t walk away with a “free” education—they earn it through service.

Typically, graduates commit to five years of active-duty service followed by three years in the reserves. Specific roles, such as pilots, require longer commitments—often up to ten years after specialized training.

All graduates are commissioned as officers, gaining leadership experience that opens doors to a wide range of future careers, both within and beyond the military.

ROTC: A Different—but Still Powerful—Option

ROTC offers another pathway and is available on more than 1,700 college campuses nationwide.

Unlike the academies, ROTC students experience a more traditional college environment. They typically wear uniforms one day a week rather than full-time, and they integrate military training alongside their academic studies.

ROTC scholarships can cover tuition and room and board, and graduates are commissioned at the same officer rank as academy graduates. Service commitments are generally slightly shorter, but the calling to serve remains central.

As appealing as debt-free college and leadership training may sound, there’s a sobering reality families must weigh carefully.

Choosing this path means committing to serve your country—and that includes the possibility of combat. This isn’t just a financial decision or a résumé booster. It requires discernment, maturity, conviction, and a willingness to place service above self.

Final Thoughts

Military education pathways are not for every student—but for the right one, they can be transformative. They offer freedom from student debt, unparalleled leadership development, and the opportunity to serve something greater than oneself.

As families prayerfully consider college decisions, this option deserves thoughtful, informed consideration—not just for what it provides, but for what it asks in return.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I have Parkinson’s and will need to stop working soon. I live in a paid-off home, and I also own a beach property with a mortgage. Once I stop working, I won’t be able to afford that payment. The beach home has been on the market for over a year and a half without selling. If I allow the bank to foreclose on it, what are the consequences—especially when it comes to taxes and whether it could affect my primary residence?
• I’m trying to understand whether a will is enough for my situation or if I need additional estate planning. I want to be sure my children receive everything I intend to leave to them.
• I’m taking early retirement from the government and have just over $1 million in my Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). I’m in my early 50s and plan to focus full-time on caring for my family. I want guidance on how to proceed with that money.

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• U.S. Military Academy (West Point) | U.S. Air Force Academy | U.S. Naval Academy | U.S. Coast Guard Academy | U.S. Merchant Marine Academy | Reserve Officers Training Corps ROTC
• Sound Mind Investing (SMI)
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)
• FaithFi App

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every 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 holidays naturally inspire generosity. As Christians, we feel a heightened awareness of need—empty tables, struggling families, and financial hardship made more visible by the contrast of celebration all around us. And that impulse to give is good.

But God calls us to something deeper.

True, Christ-centered generosity goes beyond a one-time act of charity. It invites us to walk alongside people in ways that restore dignity, build hope, and reflect God’s heart for renewal—not just during Christmas, but throughout the year.

To explore what that kind of generosity looks like in practice, we sat down with Lisa Sheltra, Director of Community Engagement at Salt & Light, a ministry committed to helping without hurting by empowering individuals rather than creating dependency.

A Biblical Vision for Deeper Generosity

Scripture sets the tone for how we approach generosity. “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4). That verse reminds us that generosity is inherently relational. It’s not just about meeting needs—it’s about entering into someone’s life with humility and care.

Lisa explained that while giving material help is often necessary, biblical generosity must flow from our relationship with Christ. God’s model for giving isn’t transactional. It’s restorative.

She pointed to John 3:16 as the ultimate framework for generosity. When God gave, He didn’t offer something temporary or superficial—He gave His Son to address our deepest brokenness and bring true flourishing. If our generosity reflects God’s heart, it should aim not only to relieve immediate pain but to support long-term restoration, reconciliation, and community.

Many churches and families feel pressure in December to focus heavily on relief efforts—food drives, toy collections, clothing donations. These are good and often necessary responses, especially in moments of crisis.

But Lisa cautioned that relief, by its nature, creates a giver-receiver imbalance. When relief becomes the default instead of the exception, it can unintentionally harm both sides of the relationship. It can reduce people to passive recipients and rob them of agency, dignity, and participation.

Relief is best understood as a tourniquet—it stops the bleeding in an emergency. But most ongoing struggles, including those we notice during the holidays, are not emergencies. They are development needs, requiring long-term walking together, not repeated short-term fixes.

Relief vs. Development: Understanding the Difference

Salt & Light works closely with principles championed by the Chalmers Center, which emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between relief and development.

• Relief addresses urgent, immediate crises.
• Development focuses on long-term growth, dignity, and restored relationships.

During the holidays, what looks like an emergency is often a symptom of a deeper, ongoing struggle. Repeated relief may feel satisfying to the giver, but it rarely moves families toward lasting stability or community.

Development, on the other hand, invites people to use their own gifts, make their own choices, and participate fully in solutions. It treats individuals not as problems to fix, but as image-bearers with capacity and value.

At Salt & Light, empowerment isn’t seasonal—it’s woven into everyday ministry. Participants invest in the program year-round and are treated not as charity cases, but as customers and guests with agency.

Rather than handing out preselected gifts, families can choose items for their loved ones. That choice matters deeply. Lisa shared that many participants have said, “This is the first Christmas in years I’ve been able to buy gifts for my family myself.”

That shift—from receiving charity to exercising choice—restores dignity in powerful ways.

A Better Path for Churches

For churches wanting to steward holiday generosity wisely, Lisa offered several practical insights:

• Partner with ministries already practicing development. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel.
• Encourage relational volunteering, not just donation drives.
• Support year-round ministries, not just seasonal projects.
• Use the holidays as an on-ramp, connecting people’s enthusiasm for giving to sustainable, ongoing involvement.

The goal isn’t to do more—it’s to do good in ways that last.

What This Looks Like for Individuals

Many believers want to help but fear causing harm. The answer isn’t to stop giving—it’s to give differently.

Lisa encouraged individuals to approach generosity with humility and a willingness to learn. We don’t need perfect solutions. We need presence, patience, listening ears, and respect for dignity.

She reminded us that kingdom impact isn’t measured by numbers alone. While it may feel impressive to count meals served or gifts distributed, God’s metrics are relational. Sometimes faithfulness looks like doing for one what we wish we could do for everyone.

When asked to leave listeners with one guiding principle beyond the Christmas season, Lisa said it simply and beautifully:

“See others as image-bearers of God—people with gifts, agency, and dignity. Come alongside them, not as fixers, but as fellow participants in God’s work of renewal.”

When we give in ways that honor dignity and foster genuine connection, we don’t just meet needs—we participate in God’s redemptive work.

To learn more about Salt & Light and their dignity-centered approach to helping others, visit SaltandLightMinistry.org.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I owned my land before I got married, and my husband isn’t on the deed. But after we got married, the tax office automatically added his name to the property tax statement. Do I have to list my spouse on the tax records if the land was paid for before marriage, and what steps do I need to take to have that changed?
• I’m retired and recently sold a property because I’m no longer able to maintain it. I netted about $100,000 from the sale. My home and vehicles are paid off, and I have a small 401(k) of about $30,000 that I’m living on. I’m not sure what to do with the $100,000—what would you recommend?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Salt & Light Ministries
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)
• FaithFi App

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every 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.

Many retirees today feel squeezed. Rising costs, fixed incomes, and market uncertainty can make the retirement years feel more fragile than expected. Yet for many households, one of their largest assets—their home—often sits unused in their financial plan.

For years, reverse mortgages carried a mixed reputation. But significant reforms over the last decade have reshaped the program, making today’s options safer, more flexible, and better aligned with thoughtful retirement planning. Today, we are joined by Harlan Accola, National Reverse Mortgage Director with Movement Mortgage, to explore how home equity can play a more intentional role in retirement.

Why Home Equity Is Often Overlooked

For many retirees, their home represents their single largest asset. Yet it’s frequently absent from retirement conversations.

One reason is perception. Outdated assumptions and negative press have long hampered reverse mortgages. Another reason is structural: many financial advisors simply aren’t trained—or compensated—to incorporate home equity into retirement planning. As a result, planning conversations often focus on investments, Social Security, pensions, and insurance, while equity is quietly ignored.

That oversight can create strain. When too much wealth is locked inside a home, retirees may feel cash-poor even while sitting on significant net worth—especially if they’re still making monthly mortgage payments.

Much of what people fear about reverse mortgages no longer applies. Major legislative reforms roughly a decade ago addressed earlier concerns and strengthened consumer protections. Today’s reverse mortgage programs are federally regulated and far more transparent.

In fact, recent industry surveys—including data from J.D. Power—show that more than 90% of reverse mortgage borrowers report being satisfied with their experience. As more people hear positive stories from neighbors and friends, perceptions continue to shift.

Key Benefits of Today’s Reverse Mortgages

The most immediate benefit for many retirees is simple: eliminating a monthly mortgage payment. I’ve spoken with retirees who are using a significant portion of their Social Security income just to cover housing costs. Removing that payment can dramatically improve monthly cash flow—even for those who technically “can afford” the payment.

Another powerful benefit is preparation. Long-term care remains one of the largest unfunded risks in retirement. For homeowners who have already paid off their house, a reverse mortgage can establish a guaranteed line of credit before it’s needed. Think of it as getting an umbrella before it starts raining—access to funds that can be used later if health care needs arise or unexpected expenses surface.

A Third Bucket in Retirement Planning

Traditionally, retirees think in terms of two buckets: income and investments. But home equity can function as a third.

The early years of retirement are often the most critical. Drawing too quickly from investments doesn’t just reduce the balance—it also eliminates years of future growth. By using home equity strategically, retirees may be able to reduce pressure on their investment portfolio, delay Social Security, and extend the longevity of their overall plan.

In many cases, this isn’t about necessity—it’s about stewardship. Rather than leaving a major asset idle or waiting until it must be accessed in distress, home equity can be used intentionally to support stability, flexibility, and peace of mind.

Reverse mortgages aren’t for everyone, and they should always be evaluated carefully within a broader financial plan. But for those in the later seasons of life—especially homeowners still making payments or struggling to meet monthly expenses—they can be a valuable option.

When used wisely, home equity isn’t about giving something up. It’s about stewarding what God has already entrusted to you, so your resources serve you well throughout retirement.

To learn more, visit Movement.com/Faith.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I own a small business with about 10 employees, and I’m looking to set up a 401(k). I’m not sure which type makes the most sense or how to get started—can you help point me in the right direction?
• I’ve been furloughed, and I’m considering borrowing from my 401(k). I’m trying to understand the tax implications of taking out $50,000 and splitting it between 2025 and 2026. Would it be wiser to take half each year, especially given the uncertainty ahead?
• I’m a widow with no children or close family. I’ve heard of revocable trusts and powers of attorney, and I’m trying to understand the difference between them. Specifically, how does having a power of attorney compare to setting up a revocable trust—especially if I were to become incapacitated?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Movement Mortgage
• IRS.gov | 401(k) Plans For Small Businesses (U.S. Department of Labor) | ADP
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)
• FaithFi App

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every 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’re deep into December, and the window for smart year-end tax planning is closing quickly. Taxes may not be at the top of your Christmas wish list, but they are an important reminder of God’s provision—and an opportunity to honor Him through wise stewardship.

As Scripture reminds us, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1). That includes the resources He’s entrusted to us. Thoughtful planning isn’t about avoiding responsibility—it’s about managing God’s gifts with intention and gratitude.

Today, we sat down with Kevin Cross, a seasoned CPA who has helped countless families navigate taxes with clarity and confidence. As we approach December 31 and look ahead to 2026, here are some of the most important moves to consider.

Rethinking Charitable Giving at Year-End

Charitable giving is always close to the hearts of our listeners, and year-end is an especially strategic time to consider it.

Recent changes to the tax code—including a higher standard deduction and an expanded SALT (state and local tax) deduction—mean many households may now benefit from itemizing again. If that’s you, making charitable contributions before December 31 could provide meaningful tax benefits.

But even if your standard deduction is still too high to itemize, there’s another strategy worth considering: bundling your giving. Instead of spreading donations evenly each year, you might combine two years’ worth of giving into one year. That can push you over the itemization threshold and maximize the tax benefit—while still supporting the ministries and causes you care about.

Why a Donor-Advised Fund Is a Powerful Tool

If you don’t yet know precisely where you want to give, a donor-advised fund (DAF) can be an incredibly flexible option. We often call it a charitable checking account. You receive the tax deduction when you contribute to the fund, then take your time prayerfully distributing gifts to qualified charities.

Kevin likes to say it’s “the most fun fund you’ll ever have”—because it encourages generosity while allowing your resources to be invested and potentially grow before they’re given.

For those who want to ensure their giving supports gospel-centered ministries, I recommend opening a donor-advised fund through the National Christian Foundation (NCF). It’s a wonderful way to align generosity with faith-based impact. You can learn more at FaithFi.com/NCF.

A New Opportunity for Children and Grandchildren (Starting in 2026)

One of the most talked-about developments Kevin highlighted is a new child tax savings account (Trump Account), set to begin in 2026. While no action can be taken until then, it’s worth knowing what to expect.

Under this provision, eligible children may receive a government-funded seed contribution, and families can contribute up to $5,000 per year. Even more interesting: businesses may be able to contribute up to $2,500 tax-free under the right circumstances—while still receiving a deduction.

What makes this especially notable for generous families is that donor-advised funds may be used to contribute to these accounts, creating new ways to bless the next generation while maintaining a strong commitment to charitable giving. Proper planning and paperwork will be essential, but this is an opportunity many families will want to explore.

Qualified Charitable Distributions: A Missed Opportunity for Many

One of the most underutilized tax strategies Kevin sees involves Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)—and it always surprises me how many people don’t know about them.

If you’re 70½ or older, you can give directly from your IRA to a qualified charity and exclude that distribution from taxable income. Once you reach the age for required minimum distributions (RMDs), this becomes even more powerful. Instead of taking the distribution, paying taxes, and then giving what’s left, you can give directly—often satisfying your RMD without increasing your tax bill.

And this isn’t limited to small amounts. You can give up to $100,000 per year through QCDs. It’s one of the most effective charitable strategies available, especially for retirees who want to give generously while managing their tax burden wisely.

Stewardship with Purpose

Taxes can feel complex, frustrating, or even discouraging—but they don’t have to be. When we view them through the lens of stewardship, they become another opportunity to align our financial decisions with God’s purposes.

Kevin Cross brings both expertise and encouragement to this conversation, reminding us that wise planning isn’t about fear—it’s about faithfulness. If you’d like to learn more about Kevin and his work, you can visit KevinCrossCPA.com.

As we close out the year, our prayer is that your financial decisions reflect gratitude for what God has provided—and confidence that He will continue to lead you as you steward it well.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I have about $135,000 in my 401(k), and my home is worth around $100,000. Would it be advisable to cash out my 401(k) to pay off my house?
• I was recently told about a fixed-rate annuity offering a 22% bonus immediately. Does that sound like a good opportunity, or is it too good to be true?
• My mother-in-law, who’s still living, deeded my husband five and a half acres out of a 13-acre property. We’re considering selling that portion to his sister and want to understand the tax implications—what tax rate applies, whether there’s an inheritance tax, and how that works.

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• National Christian Foundation (NCF)
• Kevin Cross, CPA
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)
• FaithFi App

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every 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.

Christmas is meant to be a season of joy—but for many of us, it becomes a whirlwind of overspending, overcommitting, and feeling overwhelmed. The good news? It doesn’t have to be that way. With a bit of planning and the right perspective, you can slow down, simplify, and savor what truly matters.

Today, Crystal Payne—creator of MoneySavingMom.com—shared practical ways to simplify Christmas while keeping your heart centered on Christ. Here’s a look at her best advice for making this season more peaceful, meaningful, and budget-friendly.

Rediscover the Meaning of Christmas

Before diving into logistics or budgeting, Crystal encourages families to anchor the season in what matters most.

1. Practice Daily Advent Reflections

Her family uses Ann Voskamp’s Advent book, complete with ornaments and daily devotionals. The readings are short, kid-friendly, and a gentle, daily reminder of the story at the heart of Christmas.

2. Create a Family Giving Project

Every December, Crystal’s children choose a giving project—something meaningful to them—and the whole family contributes. The kids even make donation boxes and help gather change throughout the month. It’s a hands-on way to practice generosity and keep the focus on others.

Simplify Your Gift List

For many people, gift-giving is the biggest stressor in December.

Crystal recommends asking yourself:

• Who do I feel I should buy for?
• Who do I want to buy for?
• What budget do I realistically have?

If your list and budget don’t match, consider simplifying:

• Family gifts instead of individual gifts
• Experience gifts rather than items
• Homemade or low-cost gifts, especially for people who “have everything”

Crystal’s free Christmas guide at MoneySavingMom.com includes 15 simple DIY gift ideas—from movie-night boxes to Sharpie-designed mugs to homemade baked goods.

Keep Spending in Check

Overspending is easy at Christmas—but planning helps.

Save Throughout the Year

It’s too late for this season, but Crystal encourages starting a Christmas sinking fund in January. A little each month makes December much lighter.

Use Gift Cards as Your Budget

If you shop online, buying prepaid gift cards (or using ones earned through surveys or reward apps) helps you avoid overspending. When the card is empty, the shopping is done.

If money is tight this year, you still have wonderful options:

• Homemade food gifts: cookie dough, loaves of bread, granola, sweet breads
• Experience gifts: monthly treats, babysitting, laundry help, home-cooked meals
• Sentimental gifts: photo books, recipe collections, handwritten letters

These gifts often mean more than store-bought items because they’re personal, thoughtful, and memorable.

Make Holiday Cooking Easier

Food prep can dominate December, but Crystal suggests planning ahead:

• Make a list of everything you hope to cook
• Shop ahead of time
• Prep and freeze items like cookie dough, rolls, sweet breads, or desserts
• Take shortcuts when needed—premade dough or bread can be inexpensive and time-saving

A few hours of prep can give you more space for the moments that matter.

Plan Meaningful Family Time (Without Overfilling Your Calendar)

Crystal offers several delightful ideas to create memories without adding stress.

1. Make a December Bucket List

Each family member chooses one or two special activities. That’s it. This keeps the schedule joyful rather than jam-packed—and ensures you’re doing what everyone actually values.

2. Wrap and Read Christmas Books

Wrap books you already own and open one each day in December. Kids love the anticipation, and it becomes a shared daily moment.

3. Celebrate Early as a Family

Because they travel to visit extended family, Crystal’s family sets aside a full “Christmas Day” together the week before. It allows them to savor time at home without rushing through traditions.

Stay Organized and Reduce Stress

Crystal’s top principle: Ask, “How can I make this easier?”

A few of her go-to strategies:

• Write everything down – brain dump into Google Calendar so it’s not “living in your head.”
• Time-block your to-dos – small chunks of planned tasks prevent last-minute chaos.
• Share the workload – say “yes” when someone offers help. Ask guests to bring a dish. Let kids take part in preparations.

Simplifying isn’t just about doing less—it’s about doing what matters most with more peace.

Crystal’s brand-new resource includes:

• 15 DIY gift ideas
• Food gifts, homemade gifts, and simple creative options
• Ideas to simplify and save money this Christmas

You can download it for free at MoneySavingMom.com.

A Final Word

Crystal’s wisdom reminds us that Christmas doesn’t need to be hectic or expensive to be meaningful. With planning, intention, and a focus on Christ, you can give joyfully—not regretfully.

And if you’re looking for help managing your Christmas budget—or planning for any financial season—the FaithFi App can be a tremendous toolkit. It’s designed not just to track your spending, but to help you align every financial decision with biblical wisdom.

Download the FaithFi app at FaithFi.com or search FaithFi in your app store.

May your Christmas be simple, joyful, and centered on what matters most.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I recently learned that Illinois has an estate tax threshold of $4 million, and my estate is already above that and growing. What kind of planning should I be doing now to prepare for it?
• What is the quickest and most affordable way to set up a durable power of attorney for financial, legal, and healthcare decisions?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• MoneySavingMom.com
• The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most by Crystal Paine
• Unwrapping the Greatest Gift: A Family Celebration of Christmas by Ann Voskamp
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)
• FaithFi App

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every 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.

Faith shapes every part of life—not only what we believe, but how we spend, save, invest, and give. Every financial decision reveals something about what we value, trust, and treasure most. That’s why conversations about money are never just about budgets or balances; they’re deeply spiritual.

Today, Afton Phillips, our Head of Content at FaithFi, joins the show to talk about how our faith reshapes the way we steward God’s resources. This conversation grew out of our upcoming 21-day devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure, and the themes behind it.

The Heart Behind the New Devotional

Afton has been shaping this project from its earliest concept to its final pages. She shared that when she first joined FaithFi, she longed for a place where people could revisit core biblical principles—not simply hear them once, but reflect on them deeply.

“Money isn’t just about math,” Afton said. “It’s really about our hearts.”

The devotional walks readers through foundational truths:

• God owns it all.
• Money issues are heart issues.
• Our financial lives are deeply connected to our spiritual formation.

If that’s true, then what we need isn’t a formula—it’s space with God. Scripture. Prayer. Reflection. This devotional is designed to help readers slow down long enough to allow God to reshape how they see and handle money.

Redefining Success: What We Surrender, Not What We Store

One of the early themes in Our Ultimate Treasure is the truth that God doesn’t measure success by what we store up, but by what we surrender.

We’re all tempted to believe that just a little more—more savings, more security, more achievement—will finally bring peace. But no amount of accumulation ever delivers the rest our souls crave.

True biblical success is about formation more than finances.

• Are we growing in Christlikeness?
• Are the fruits of the Spirit becoming more evident in our lives?
• Are we learning to let go of fear, control, and comfort so God can shape us?

When surrender becomes the lens, money stops being a monument to ourselves and becomes a tool for becoming more like Jesus.

Restoring Purpose in Our Work

Another key section of the devotional explores a truth we often forget: work is not a curse—it’s a calling.

From the very beginning, God designed work as something good. Not something we merely do to earn or survive, but something through which we participate in His redemptive mission.

Your desk, job site, classroom, or kitchen table isn’t just a workplace—it’s holy ground. Your work is one of the primary arenas where God shapes your character and blesses others through you.

Why Margin Matters for Faithful Stewardship

Margin is one of the most important threads running through the entire devotional.

Afton put it simply:

“Margin creates space for God to move.”

When we max out:

• our money
• our time
• our energy

We leave no room to listen, pause, or respond to God’s leading.

Margin isn’t restrictive. It’s freeing. It enables generosity, rest, trust, and wise decision-making. It’s one of the clearest marks of faithful stewardship.

The Power of Wise Counsel

Money can feel personal—sometimes even private. But Scripture is clear: we’re not meant to navigate finances alone.

Every day, callers to our program remind us how many people long for guidance, encouragement, and clarity. That’s why we devoted an entire day in the devotional to seeking wise counsel.

Afton shared:

“When we invite wise counsel into our lives, we begin to see things we might have missed.”

That’s also why Certified Kingdom Advisors (CKA) exist—to help believers apply biblical principles to their real-life financial situations. You can find one at FindaCKA.com.

Generosity Rooted in Grace, Not Guilt

If there’s a single thread that runs through the whole devotional, it’s generosity.

But not guilt-driven generosity. Grace-driven generosity.

We give because God has first given to us—lavishly, sacrificially, joyfully. When we understand His grace, generosity becomes something we get to do, not something we feel pressured into.

Every act of giving becomes an act of worship.

A Devotional Designed for Reflection, Beauty, and Formation

One of the most unique aspects of Our Ultimate Treasure is its built-in rhythm of reflection.

Each day includes:

• Scripture
• A devotional
• Guided reflection questions
• A written prayer
• Beautiful, thoughtful imagery

The artwork itself invites contemplation. Everyday images—like a simple desk—are visually transformed to reflect biblical truth, reminding readers that God reshapes the way we see everything, even our work and money.

This devotional was designed not just to be read, but to be experienced.

Finishing with What Truly Lasts: Eternal Rewards

The final day draws us back to what matters most: our ultimate treasure is Christ Himself.

Earthly wealth fades. Opportunities change. Seasons shift. But our life in Christ—His presence, His love, His Kingdom—endures forever. Afton summed it up beautifully:

“What are we investing in that will matter in a thousand years? That’s eternal treasure.”

Experience Our Ultimate Treasure

If you’d like to journey through this 21-day devotional yourself, we would love to send it to you as part of the FaithFi Partner Program.

With a monthly gift of $35 or a one-time gift of $400, you’ll receive year-long benefits, including early access to studies, devotionals, and our Faithful Steward magazine.

You can learn more at FaithFi.com/Partner.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I have Roth and traditional IRAs, plus taxable investments with large capital gains. My advisor suggested direct indexing last year, so I opened a small-cap account. It’s up slightly overall but includes about a 19% loss I could use to offset gains. I also give appreciated stock to charity, but I need some funds for living expenses. My question is: Is direct indexing a biblically sound strategy, or is it problematic in any way? And how do you tell the brokerage which companies you don’t want to own? Do you specify which types of businesses to exclude?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s 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)
• 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.

As the year winds down, most of us feel the crunch of holiday travel, family gatherings, and a calendar that fills up faster than we expect. But this season also offers something incredibly valuable: a natural pause. A moment to look back, look ahead, and make sure our financial lives still reflect the things—and the people—we care about most.

To help us think through this year-end reset, we sat down with Cole Pearson, President of Investment Solutions at OneAscent, a family of companies committed to helping believers invest in alignment with biblical values. Cole shares practical, hope-filled steps to set your finances on a firm footing as you head into a new year.

Start With What Matters Most: Your Values

Before crunching numbers or updating accounts, Cole suggests beginning with the why behind your financial decisions.

“As the year winds down,” he says, “it’s the perfect time to pause and make sure our financial life still reflects our actual life—our goals and values.”

This is the heart of wise stewardship. Money isn’t the goal; it’s a tool. And when our tools aren’t aligned with what matters most, our decisions can drift.

Cole encourages families to sit down—whether with a spouse, children, or even a financial advisor—and ask a simple but powerful question:

“What is most important for us to reflect through our financial life?”

These conversations reconnect us with the things God has entrusted to us: people, opportunities, relationships, and resources. When your values are clear, your financial decisions begin to tell a consistent story.

The Three Lenses for a Year-End Checkup

To help families gain clarity, OneAscent uses three helpful “lenses” that offer a holistic view of stewardship. Each one enables you to assess where you are and where God may be inviting you to grow.

1. Perspectives: How You Think and Feel About Money

Every financial decision begins with a mindset. Do you naturally want to give? Save? Spend? Invest?

None of these instincts is wrong—money is simply a tool. But understanding how God has wired you helps you use that tool intentionally rather than reactively.

2. Priorities: What Matters Most to Your Family

Once your perspectives are clear, it’s time to identify your priorities.

• Is this season about legacy?
• Providing stability for your family?
• Creating margin for relationships?
• Leaning more fully into generosity?

“When you know your top priorities,” Cole says, “you can give every dollar a job. It brings focus and direction to your plan.”

3. Milestones: What’s Changing in Your Life?

The end of the year is a great time to reflect on transitions:

• A new job
• A retirement
• A new child or grandchild
• A loss in the family
• A health change

Life transitions always put money in motion. Recognizing them early allows you to adjust your financial plan before drifting off course.

Together, perspectives, priorities, and milestones provide a complete picture of your financial health—and help ensure your plans align with your values.

Preparing for the Year Ahead Through Intentional Generosity

For many families, generosity naturally comes up during year-end reflections. The holidays remind us that giving is both worship and witness—an expression of God’s grace through us.

Cole encourages families to approach generosity as intentionally as investing.

“Whether you’re investing or giving,” he says, “we think of both as investing God’s resources. We want all of it moving in the same direction—reflecting the same values.”

Talking about generosity as a family:

• Fosters unity
• Clarifies your shared purpose
• Creates a legacy of open-handed living

This is a season when many families give. But it’s also the perfect time to ask: 

“How can our giving reflect what we believe most deeply?”

Considering Faith-Based Investing in 2026

Some listeners may be feeling a nudge toward Faith-Based Investing in the coming year. If so, Cole suggests an easy first step: screen your current portfolio.

“Start by asking what you’re invested in that may not align with your faith,” he says. Screening helps identify areas where your dollars are unintentionally supporting companies or causes that conflict with biblical values.

From there, you can begin redirecting your investments toward companies that create blessing, contribute to human flourishing, and reflect God’s heart.

This simple exercise can lead to a powerful sense of alignment between your faith and your finances.

Explore Values-Aligned Investing With OneAscent

OneAscent exists to help believers invest with clarity and conviction—directing capital toward companies that make a positive impact and reflect biblical values. To learn more or begin screening your own portfolio, visit: OneAscent.com/FaithFi.

It’s a great next step as you prepare to start a new year with purpose, unity, and renewed stewardship.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I’ve been offered a small settlement after several years of litigation. My attorney recommends taking it rather than dragging things out, but I’m unsure whether to accept or keep fighting. What’s your advice?
• I started collecting Social Security at 65, but I keep getting emails saying Donald Trump will end Social Security and raise the retirement age to 70. Even Social Security couldn’t confirm anything. I’m worried—what should I do if those benefits disappear?
• I’m almost 62 and considering taking Social Security early at $1,800 instead of waiting until 67 for $2,400. I’ve heard the break-even point means waiting may not pay off. If I keep working and invest the benefits, how does that affect things? Should I take it now or hold off?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• OneAscent
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)
• FaithFi App

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every 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.

New tax laws are on the horizon—and they could significantly influence the way you give. The recently passed One Big, Beautiful Bill Act (often shortened to the OBBBA) introduces several changes that affect charitable givers today and in the years to come. 

To help unpack these shifts, we sat down with Bruce McKee, attorney and Senior Vice President of Complex Gifts at the National Christian Foundation (NCF).

What the OBBBA Actually Does

Despite its cheerful name, the OBBBA carries serious implications for donors. Bruce explains that the bill makes permanent many provisions that were originally scheduled to expire at the end of 2025 under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Key extensions include:

• Higher standard deductions
• Higher estate tax exclusions
• New deduction floors for charitable gifts
• A new limit on itemized deductions
• Extended business deductions
• Updated rules for university endowment taxes

These changes will affect different givers differently, but nearly everyone will feel the impact of the new standard deduction.

The Standard Deduction Gets Bigger—Again

This update alone affects roughly 90% of taxpayers.

The OBBBA permanently extends the increased standard deduction and even boosts it for the 2025 tax year:

• Individuals: $15,750
• Married couples filing jointly: $31,500

Because the standard deduction is now higher, fewer people will itemize. And when giving is lumped under the standard deduction, charitable gifts are no longer deductible.

But there’s a powerful workaround.

If you want to maximize your tax benefits while maintaining your giving rhythms, “bunching” can help. Bunching means:

1. Grouping several years’ worth of charitable gifts into a single tax year
2. Itemizing in that year, instead of taking the standard deduction
3. Using a donor-advised fund (DAF)—such as an NCF Giving Fund—to distribute gifts gradually over future years

A giving fund works like a charitable checking account—a powerful tool for strategic, tax-efficient generosity. Bunching is especially impactful when paired with gifts of appreciated assets.

New Charitable Deduction Floors Coming in 2026

Beginning in 2026, charitable deductions will include a “floor”—a small portion of giving that won’t be deductible at all.

For Individuals

Only the amount of charitable giving above 0.5% of your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) will be deductible. Here’s an example:

AGI = $200,000
0.5% floor = $1,000

Whether you give $20,000 or $40,000, the first $1,000 is not deductible.

For Corporations

A similar rule applies, but the floor is 1% of taxable income.

Why This Matters

This floor means that givers with large AGIs—especially in high-income years—should consider giving earlier, before 2026 arrives. Strategic timing will matter more than ever.

Even high-capacity donors who itemize may benefit from bunching in alternating years.

New Limits on Itemized Deductions

The OBBBA also introduces a “haircut” affecting all itemized deductions—not just charitable ones.

Because the highest tax bracket (37%) is now permanent, itemized deductions typically reduce income taxed at that rate. But beginning in 2026:

• Deductions in the highest bracket will be valued at 35 cents per dollar, not 37.

It’s a relatively small shift, but it slightly increases tax liability and adds another layer of planning complexity. Once again, Bruce recommends intentionally reviewing giving strategies before the 2025 year closes.

Estate and Gift Tax Exclusions: Higher and More Stable

The OBBBA also stabilizes estate planning by raising the estate and gift tax exemption to:

• $15 million per individual
• $30 million for married couples

These thresholds—once set to sunset back to near half—are now permanent (as permanent as tax law can be). This gives families greater clarity as they plan inheritances and consider charitable tools like trusts or family foundations.

When people settle their estate planning, it often helps them focus their hearts on where God is calling them to give—what Ron Blue usually describes as “giving while you’re living so you’re knowing where it’s going.”

Good News for Non-Itemizers: The Above-the-Line Charitable Deduction Returns

Beginning soon, non-itemizers will be able to deduct modest charitable amounts:

• $1,000 for individuals
• $2,000 for married couples filing jointly

This applies to cash gifts made to churches and public charities. It’s a welcome incentive for households that rely on the standard deduction.

Navigating Change with Wisdom

The tax landscape may shift, but God’s call to generosity never does. Thoughtful planning ensures you can give joyfully, efficiently, and impactfully.

If you want to steward God's resources with greater intentionality, a Giving Fund through the National Christian Foundation can help you:

• Maximize tax benefits
• Simplify your giving
• Support ministries you love
• Invest funds for future generosity

You can open one in just a few minutes at FaithFi.com/NCF.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• My husband and I are turning 68 and need to move from our two-story home into a one-story house. We’re considering new construction, but we’d either need a small mortgage or withdraw $50–60,000 from our 401(k). Our income is stable—he gets $3,000 from Social Security, and I make about $2,000. We manage fine month to month. Which option makes more sense?
• I’m 73, single, living on Social Security with excellent credit and no debt besides a small monthly charge card. I’m looking into either a HELOC or another home-equity option so I can access some of my home’s value to help others before I pass away. What’s the best way to proceed?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• The National Christian Foundation (NCF) 
• Movement Mortgage
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)
• FaithFi App

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every 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 hope is tied only to a desired outcome, disappointment becomes inevitable. Katherine Wolf knows this truth more personally than most. At just 26, with a newborn in her arms and a lifetime ahead of her, she suffered a massive and unexpected stroke that changed everything.

Today, through her writing, speaking, and nonprofit ministry Hope Heals, Katherine invites others into a deeper, sturdier hope—one that can withstand even the darkest valleys.

On today’s show, she joins us to share her journey: how suffering reshaped her faith, her understanding of God’s goodness, and even her family’s finances.

A Life Forever Changed

In 2008, without warning or symptoms, Katherine experienced a catastrophic brainstem stroke caused by a congenital condition she never knew she had—an arterial venous malformation (AVM). Overnight, she went from fully able-bodied to fighting for her life.

A 16-hour surgery saved her, but her new reality included significant impairments. Today, she uses a wheelchair, has facial paralysis, reduced function in her right hand, and additional physical limitations. Still, she radiates joy and purpose.

“I did live—and I’m doing great,” she says with her trademark resilience.

Katherine describes the stroke as the moment “the pebble hit the metal”—a collision between everything she had learned about Jesus and the hardest chapter of her life.

Years of Scripture, sermons, prayer, and discipleship prepared her for a moment she never imagined. “This is no longer a drill,” she remembers telling herself. Her long walk with Christ, though imperfect, had built a foundation strong enough to stand when everything else fell apart.

In her memoir Hope Heals, she writes that suffering is not the end of the story—but the beginning of a new one. Christian hope does not deny pain; it declares that pain will not have the final word.

Katherine’s more recent book, Treasures in the Dark, draws from Isaiah 45:3—God’s promise to give “hidden treasure” in the shadows of our lives so we might know Him more deeply.

“If we must walk through darkness—and we all do at some point—why not gather the treasure God has placed there?” she asks. In other words, don’t waste your pain. Let God use it to form you, deepen you, and show you His faithfulness in ways comfort never could.

Hope Heals: A Ministry Born from Suffering

One of the greatest treasures to emerge from Katherine’s hardship is Hope Heals, the nonprofit she and her husband, Jay, founded.

Hope Heals Camp

Their flagship outreach is a fully scholarship-supported summer camp for families affected by disability. Guests experience rest, community, and the love of Christ through what Katherine calls “inter-ability community”—people with and without disabilities sharing life together.

Volunteers and families leave forever changed. The joy is contagious.

Mend Coffee Shop

In Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood, Hope Heals also operates Mend, a universally accessible coffee shop that employs people with disabilities and creates a space where everyone belongs.

Katherine describes both initiatives as “glorious,” a word she uses often—and always with delight.

The Financial Realities of Suffering

Medical crises don’t just affect the body; they often reshape a family’s finances. Katherine knows this firsthand.

When disability or sudden illness enters a story, she notes, “the finances can be ravaged.” Many families drain savings, take on debt, or scramble to fund treatments and therapies.

But Katherine also speaks about “invisible wheelchairs”—the unseen burdens that hold people back. Financial instability, she says, can be one of the most crippling.

Her encouragement? Everyone carries some kind of hardship. You are not alone. God gives us community and wisdom so we don’t walk these valleys in isolation.

For Katherine, surrender has become a central theme of her spiritual life, including how she views money.

“Surrender is relief,” she says. “It’s not God binding us up—it’s letting Him take the wheel.”

This posture doesn’t magically erase financial challenges, but it reframes them. It anchors us in trust rather than fear. And it reminds us that provision comes from God, not our own strength.

Hope for Anyone Facing Uncertainty

Katherine’s story speaks to those walking through overwhelming medical challenges—but her final encouragement reaches everyone, regardless of circumstances.

Trusting God means you don’t have to live afraid of what may happen next.
Your circumstances may feel anything but okay, but when Christ lives in you, the deepest good in your life is already secure.

“The good things of God,” she says, “are not external—they’re inside of you when you know Him.”

That truth allows us to face uncertainty with confidence, surrender our financial fears, and discover a hope that holds—no matter the storm.

Learn More

To explore Katherine’s ministry or support her work, visit HopeHeals.com.

If you're near Atlanta, stop by Mend coffee shop in Buckhead—a place of belonging, beauty, and community. 

Katherine will also be speaking at the upcoming Kingdom Advisors Conference, where thousands of financial professionals gather to grow in biblical wisdom and stewardship. Learn more at RedeemingMoney.com.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I invested based on the advice of a family friend who said it was guaranteed, but I lost $15,000. I’m single, I don’t have much, and I was expecting this investment to return about $25,000. Now I’m just praying I’ll have enough for rent next month. I’m calling to ask how I can recover from something like this.
• I have some real estate properties I want to leave to my children, and I’ve heard that putting them in a trust can help avoid capital gains. Do I need a trust for that? And should I also have a will?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Hope Heals | Hope Heals Camp | Mend Coffee & Goods
• Hope Heals: 
A True Story of Overwhelming Loss and an Overcoming Love by Katherine and Jay Wolf
• Treasures in the Dark: 90 Reflections for Finding Bright Hope Hidden in the Hurting by Katherine Wolf with Alex Wolf
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)
• FaithFi App

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every 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 check the markets often—but how often do we check our hearts? Most of us approach investing with calculators, not character. Yet Scripture calls us to a deeper way. What if investing isn’t just a financial activity but a spiritual practice—one that shapes who we’re becoming?

Tim McCready, Head of Global Advisory at BrightLight (part of the Eversource Wealth Advisors team), has been helping both Kingdom Advisors and FaithFi develop a theological framework for investing that aligns our portfolios—and our hearts—with God’s purposes. His recent work explores how timeless spiritual disciplines can transform how believers think about investing.

Why Investing Requires a Spiritual Lens

Tim begins with Jesus’ words in Matthew 6: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” That’s not just a warning—it’s an insight into spiritual formation.

“Our investment decisions aren’t just a reflection of faithfulness,” Tim says. “They’re shaping who we’re becoming as we seek to be like Jesus.”

When we invite God into our investment decisions, investing becomes more than strategy—it becomes worship. It becomes one more place where we ask God to form us into faithful stewards.

The Ignatian Prayer of Examen—For Investors

One of the most compelling ideas Tim introduces is applying the historic Ignatian prayer of examen to our portfolios.

For centuries, believers have ended their day with this reflective practice—examining God’s presence, confessing sin, noticing grace, and preparing for tomorrow.

Tim suggests: What if investors practiced something similar?

Rather than viewing portfolios strictly through analysis or performance, the examen helps us approach them with discernment, surrender, and spiritual attentiveness.

Step One: Gratitude

Gratitude quiets the noise and recenters us on God’s generosity. Before looking at performance or market movements, Tim encourages investors to pause and thank God for His provision.

It might sound something like:

“Heavenly Father, thank You for the gifts You’ve entrusted to me—including my investment portfolio. Speak to me about my stewardship, challenge me, and remind me of Your faithfulness as I draw near to You.”

Gratitude reframes everything. It reminds us that portfolios are gifts to steward—not trophies to admire nor securities to cling to.

Step Two: Review

Just as the daily examen invites believers to review their day, the investing examen invites us to review each line of our portfolio with prayerful reflection.

This simple discipline lifts our eyes beyond numbers to the impact our investments have on people, communities, and the world.

As Tim notes, “We may find both joy and conviction—joy where God is pleased, and invitation where He’s calling us to change.”

Step Three: Repentance and Renewal

This is where the examen moves from reflection to transformation.

Perhaps we discover that we’ve placed too much security in our portfolio. Perhaps a certain investment feels misaligned with God’s desires. Perhaps God prompts us toward greater generosity.

Repentance helps us acknowledge these areas honestly—and renewal invites us to receive God’s forgiveness and step forward in faith.

A simple prayer might be:

“Gracious Provider, rule over every part of my life, including my investments. Forgive me for trusting wealth over You. Give me courage to act where You lead, and joy in following Your plan for my life.”

This step reorients our trust away from the market and back toward the One who “owns the cattle on a thousand hills.” (Psalm 50:10)

Step Four: Community and Accountability

Though investing can feel private, it was never meant to be isolated.

We grow best in community. Sharing a budget or portfolio with a trusted friend or mentor is humbling—but powerful. Accountability exposes blind spots, clarifies values, and encourages faithfulness.

Whether through a small group, a stewardship class, or a community like the FaithFi app, transparency invites God’s wisdom through God’s people.

Step Five: Fasting from Market Noise

We live in an era of constant market updates, by the day, hour, and minute. Tim points out that this flood of data gives the illusion of control while feeding anxiety.

A spiritual practice of “fasting” from market noise—checking less often, turning off notifications, stepping back from constant updates—helps us rest in God’s provision instead of reacting to every market swing.

Jesus’ question echoes here: “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” (Matthew 6:27) Or, as Tim puts it, “add a single cent to your portfolio?”

Step Six: Service

Spiritually formed investors naturally turn outward. Financial experience is a gift meant to serve others—whether through mentoring, teaching budgeting, serving on a church finance committee, or helping younger believers develop healthy habits.

Service transforms stewardship from something we manage to something we multiply.

A Holistic Vision of Faithful Investing

When we bring together gratitude, review, repentance, community, fasting, and service, we begin to see investing not as a sterile financial exercise but as a rhythm of worship.

“Investing is faithfulness,” Tim reminds us. “It forms us. It shapes us as disciples. A biblical approach to investing isn’t measured only by returns, but by spiritual formation.”

In other words, investing becomes a way to follow Jesus. A biblical worldview of investing doesn’t start with performance—it begins with the heart. When we invite God into our investing, He uses even financial decisions to form us into the likeness of Christ.

May our portfolios—and our hearts—reflect the One who has entrusted everything to us.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I worked hard to raise my credit score to about 730, but a miscommunication with my student loan led to a late payment and brought it down to 548. The issue is fixed, and the account is current, but my score is still low. How long will it take to recover if I keep making on-time payments?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s 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)
• 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.