A crypto enthusiast once wrote on Reddit, “Bitcoin is like winning the lottery in slow motion.” 

That might be a stretch, but one thing’s clear: Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies aren’t going anywhere. Today, Mark Biller joins us to unpack how crypto is moving into the mainstream and what that means for investors trying to make wise decisions.

Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

Here are two key insights to help investors make sense of today’s crypto market:

1. Bitcoin Stands Apart – It’s critical to understand that Bitcoin is not like the rest of the crypto world. It has emerged as a unique and dominant force, with widespread adoption, while other cryptocurrencies remain highly speculative.
    
2. Bitcoin Has Reached Critical Mass – Thanks to regulatory shifts and institutional adoption, Bitcoin seems to be here to stay. In just a few years, we've gone from government hostility toward crypto to SEC-approved Bitcoin ETFs and even a pro-crypto administration in the White House.

Bitcoin was the original cryptocurrency, launched in 2008, and today it represents about 60% of the entire crypto market. It’s gained institutional interest and widespread regulatory acceptance. By contrast, the remaining 40% of the crypto universe is fragmented, filled with thousands of projects, many of which will not survive.

Think of most other cryptos not as currencies but as startup tech ventures. That helps frame their high risk and their potential for failure. Bitcoin, meanwhile, has arrived. The rest? They’re still trying to prove themselves.

Many early Bitcoin advocates hoped it would serve as a usable currency outside of traditional financial systems. But that vision has mostly faded. Today, most investors treat Bitcoin like digital gold—a store of value designed to hedge against inflation and the devaluation of fiat currencies.

It’s volatile, yes. But its built-in scarcity (only 21 million bitcoins will ever exist) appeals to those who fear government overreach or reckless monetary policy. Bitcoin’s not just for tech enthusiasts anymore—it’s becoming a strategic asset for serious investors.

Generational preferences also shape Bitcoin’s rise. Younger investors, raised in a digital world of apps and virtual marketplaces, are far more comfortable with digital assets. What gold has long been to older generations, Bitcoin is becoming to younger ones: a hedge against inflation and a symbol of financial independence.

In fact, Bitcoin’s correlation with gold has grown significantly in recent years, signaling that institutions are viewing it in similar terms.

It’s not just individuals diving into Bitcoin. Global events—especially the 2022 freezing of Russian reserve assets—have prompted many nations to reassess their reliance on U.S. Treasury bonds. The result? A surge in gold buying by central banks, and increasing openness to alternatives like Bitcoin among private investors.

While governments aren’t yet buying Bitcoin, there’s reasonable evidence to suggest that gold investors are starting to “skate to where the puck is going,” diversifying small portions of their portfolios into Bitcoin as a forward-looking strategy.

With that being said, should we be concerned about the global shift away from U.S. treasuries?

Not immediately. While a shift away from U.S. Treasuries could eventually raise interest rates and borrowing costs, the dollar still holds dominant status in global transactions. But it's a trend worth watching. It’s a slow-motion problem—more of a simmer than a flashpoint.

It depends. Investors with a strong risk tolerance and a positive outlook on gold might allocate a small portion (less than 5%) of their portfolio to Bitcoin or Bitcoin ETF's. The key is position sizing—keeping it small due to Bitcoin’s extreme volatility.

However, we want to be crystal clear: this only applies to Bitcoin, not to the rest of the crypto space, which still carries a high risk of going to zero.

If you're curious to explore more, check out the full article, Bitcoin (& Crypto) Go Mainstream: What You Need To Know, at SoundMindInvesting.org. The SMI team also offers a Bitcoin-inclusive ETF for those looking to dip a toe into this asset class as part of a broader, biblically informed strategy.

At the end of the day, financial stewardship isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about making wise, measured decisions rooted in truth. And with the right knowledge, even complex topics like crypto can be approached with confidence.

• I currently have about $1 million in an active 401(k) with a major financial institution. I’d like to transfer those existing funds to another custodian, where I can earn a guaranteed interest rate. However, I also want to continue contributing to my current 401(k) through my employer, taking on more investment risk with those new contributions. Is that possible?
• My husband and I live with my father-in-law, and the house needs some repairs. He’s offered to loan us the money from his retirement account to cover the costs, but he’s asking us to help pay the taxes he would owe on the distribution. Is that a wise arrangement?

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Bitcoin (& Crypto) Go Mainstream: What You Need To Know by Mark Biller (Sound Mind Investing Article)
• 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 most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven…” – Ecclesiastes 3:1

God has designed life to unfold in seasons, and with each one comes new challenges, opportunities, and sometimes, new finish lines. Today, Cody Hobelmann joins us to talk about why it’s not only okay to adjust your financial finish line—it’s often the wise and faithful thing to do.

Cody Hobelmann is a Certified Financial Professional (CFP®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and a Wealth Advisor at Wealth Squared. He and his brother, Kealan, founded the Finish Line Pledge and also co-host the Finish Line Podcast, where they discuss the intersection of faith, generosity, and personal finance.

A financial finish line is simply an answer to the question, How much is enough? It helps us define what we need for our lifestyle so that everything beyond that can be redirected toward building God’s Kingdom.

There are two kinds of finish lines:

• Lifestyle (or Spending) Finish Line – The amount needed to fund your personal lifestyle.
• Accumulation (or Net Worth) Finish Line – The total assets needed to sustain that lifestyle for the rest of your life.

These lines aren’t rigid—they’re tools to help us hold God’s money with open hands, growing in both contentment and generosity.

However, there’s often a lot of pressure to get it exactly right, but what matters more is having a starting point. You’ll grow and refine it as your life and faith journey progress.

We recommend revisiting your finish line at least annually—or sooner if significant life changes occur, such as a new dependent, a move to a more expensive area, or a shift in health.

To help clients visualize their financial decisions, Cody teaches a simple framework that divides money into four “buckets”:

1. Personal Spending – Covering day-to-day lifestyle costs.
2. Future Planning – Savings and investments for future needs.
3. Taxes – Obligations to the government.
4. Kingdom Giving – Resources designated for generosity.

A lifestyle finish line determines what belongs in the first two buckets, freeing the rest for eternal purposes.

A net worth finish line is the amount we believe is appropriate to accumulate over a lifetime. The parable deeply informs us of the rich fool in Luke 12—the man who tore down barns to build bigger ones but failed to consider the brevity of life and the weight of eternal priorities.

To set a net worth finish line, Cody walks clients through three core considerations:

• Lifestyle Needs – How much do you need each year?
• Wealth Transfer Goals – What will you leave to heirs or ministries?
• Conservative Margin – A buffer for life’s unknowns—but not a replacement for trust in God.

If you find yourself exceeding your finish line—accumulating more than necessary—we encourage asking yourself one essential question:

“Why am I holding on to these resources in the first place?”

God may have given you more not for personal security, but to fund the “good works He prepared in advance for you” (Ephesians 2:10). In that light, generosity becomes more than a response—it becomes a calling.

Rather than letting a higher income raise our standard of living, it becomes an opportunity to increase our standard of giving.

Not sure where to start? Try setting a finish line for 90 days. Just set a lifestyle finish line for three months and see what you learn.

That short-term experiment opens the door to deeper financial freedom, greater contentment, and a stronger sense of purpose.

We also should remember that at the end of the day, it’s not just about money—it’s about worship. 2 Corinthians 9:8 reminds us:

“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work”

To set a financial finish line, we must first recognize that everything belongs to God. It’s not about figuring out how much of our money to give to Him—it’s about learning to steward His money faithfully.

Your finish line isn’t a limit—it’s an invitation to freedom, joy, and a deeper life of generosity.

Ready to take the next step? Visit FinishLinePledge.com to access helpful tools, real-life stories, and free resources that will guide you in defining what “enough” looks like in your financial journey.

You can also read Cody’s full article, “A Spending Finish Line Is Just the Beginning,” in the latest issue of Faithful Steward magazine. To receive the magazine at your doorstep each quarter, become a FaithFi Partner with a monthly gift of $35 or an annual gift of $400. Learn more at FaithFi.com/Give.

• My father-in-law passed away in March. Next week, we have an appointment with Social Security, and we want to ensure we come prepared, along with my mother-in-law, who will turn 65 next year. She wants to take over his Social Security.
• I heard about a government program that allows you to consolidate your credit card debt and repay it with no interest, but I’m not sure how to access it. My debt is about $25,000.

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• The Finish Line Pledge
• Christian Credit Counselors
• Wise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan, JD. 
• 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 most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Did you hear about the guy who tried to pay his taxes with a smile? Unfortunately for him, the IRS still prefers cash.

All jokes aside, failing to file your taxes for several years is no small matter—but it’s not the end of the road, either. Kevin Cross joins us today with practical steps to help you get back on track.

Kevin Cross is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) who has headed CPA firms in Florida and now Georgia. He has studied the tax code extensively and specializes in representing taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

The further you fall behind, the more difficult it is to catch up. But rather than beginning with the year you first missed, he recommends filing your most recent return first—say, 2024—and working backward as needed. This shows the IRS that you’re attempting to come into compliance, not ignoring your obligations.

Falling behind on taxes is more common than most people think. Life events like divorce, disability, job loss, or even the rise of gig work can trigger tax complications. For example, many gig workers receive a 1099 for the first time, try to file using online software, and are shocked to discover they owe thousands. Rather than seek help, they freeze—and the following year’s return also goes unfiled.

Of course, COVID didn’t help as many people have been struggling since then to get back on track.

A common misunderstanding is that you must always file. If you’re not going to owe anything, you don’t have to file. That includes many senior citizens who live solely on Social Security.

However, if you're due a refund, you have up to three years to file and claim it. Miss that window, and the refund is forfeited.

Importantly, there’s a difference between not filing and not paying. Sometimes you don’t know what you owe—or if you owe—until you file.

Even if you don't owe taxes on the sale of a primary residence, for example, the IRS won't know that unless you file. If you don’t, you might receive a letter saying you owe thousands in capital gains tax—money you could’ve avoided paying.

If you're unsure how many years you've missed, a good first step is to request a Wage and Income Transcript from the IRS. This document shows all your reported income—W-2s, 1099s, Social Security, retirement distributions, and more. You can request it through the IRS website by searching for “IRS wage and income transcript.”

Even with transcripts in hand, deciphering them can be complicated. That’s why we strongly recommend seeking help from a CPA or tax professional familiar with IRS representation. You may not know what to do with what you find. You can find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) in your area who specializes in tax planning and preparation by going to FaithFi.com and clicking “Find a Professional”. 

Also, it’s helpful to know that the IRS’s own handbook, the Internal Revenue Manual, usually requires only the last six years of returns to be filed. That’s a helpful limit for those unsure where to begin.

Don’t let fear keep you stuck. The IRS can work with you. Options include payment plans or even an offer in compromise, which may reduce your total tax liability.

Filing late taxes doesn’t have to be terrifying. With the right help and a step-by-step plan, you can get back on track—and even experience peace of mind. The IRS just wants to see you trying. Start with today, and take it one step at a time.

• I have a TIAA retirement account from my husband's time as an adjunct professor at a local community college. It's a small amount. As I'm 76, I'm required to set aside a certain amount each year. I would like to give this to my son now so that those amounts can stay in the account and start accruing interest. Can I do that?
• We have a credit card balance of $15,000 with an interest rate of 11%. We try to pay $2,000 a month, but the balance keeps increasing. Part of the reason is that our 29-year-old daughter, who lives and works in London, has a card on our account. We initially gave her the card for emergencies and plane tickets home, but she's using it for other expenses, such as occasional Ubers and travel. We want to pay off this card, but we're making no progress. What can we do?

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Kevin Cross (CPA)
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS.gov)
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)
• 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 most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here I am! Send me.’” - Isaiah 6:8

The news from the Middle East can be overwhelming, but our hope in Christ calls us to take action. Today, May-Lee Melki from Heart for Lebanon joins us to share how you can help protect young women and girls facing crisis. Then it’s on to your calls at 800-525-7000.

​May-Lee Melki is a Lebanese-American advocate, legal scholar, and ministry leader dedicated to advancing justice and holistic transformation in the Middle East. She serves as the Strategic Engagement Manager at Heart for Lebanon, an underwriter of Faith and Finance.

Lebanon today is not the Lebanon of a generation ago. Compounded crises have pushed countless families into desperation, and girls ages 13–21 often bear the heaviest burden. Without a father, brother, or male guardian to protect them, they face decisions made for them—decisions that can lock them into abuse for life.

The urgency has never been higher. These girls can change their country, the region, and the Church—but only if someone intervenes before tragedy strikes.

Heart for Lebanon has already welcomed 250 at-risk girls into its programs this year. With your help, we can reach the remaining 250 before June 30. The math is simple—and remarkably attainable:

• $114 introduces three girls to Jesus and a pathway to safety.
• $950 opens the door for twenty-five girls.
• Less than $10,000 completes the entire goal.

Every investment provides:

• Safe spaces & mentorship
• Christ-centered counseling focused on identity and dignity
• Education & vocational training rooted in biblical character and life skills
• Church communities where girls—and, prayerfully, their families—can grow in faith

Recently, Meili met Iman, a 12-year-old refugee forced to work all day for $20 a month—money her father uses for cigarettes. After a chapel session, with tears in her eyes, Iman asked, "Who is Jesus?" That day, she prayed to receive Christ, saying:

“My circumstances may not change immediately, but Jesus will change my heart and be with me.”

Your support keeps Iman in school, surrounds her with Christian counselors, and plugs her into a loving church, offering hope not only to her but to her whole family.

1. Pray:
   
   • Ask the Lord to protect these girls and soften the hearts of their families.
   • Pray for the Heart for Lebanon staff who daily serve in challenging conditions.
      
2. Give Generously:
   
   • Text “FAITH” to 98656—we’ll reply with a secure giving link.
   • Visit FaithFi.com/Lebanon to give online.
   • Remember: $114 = three girls rescued and discipled in Christ.

Jesus taught, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21) When you invest in Heart for Lebanon, you’re putting your heart into something that echoes into eternity—protecting girls from exploitation, introducing them to the Savior, and empowering them to transform their communities for Christ.

Let’s finish strong. Join us in reaching the final 250 young women before June 30. Together, we can turn desperation into dignity and despair into hope—one precious girl at a time. Give now at FaithFi.com/Lebanon or text “FAITH” to 98656.

• I have two financial advisors, and I would like to know which one to work with. One has been with our family for 30 years, but his fees are high. The other has a different investment approach, but his fees are much lower. I’m struggling with the emotional side of potentially changing advisors after such a long-term working relationship. How should I evaluate this situation?
• I have a 13-year-old son who has been earning money doing yard work and has now saved over $2,000. I would like to know the best place for a young teenager to start saving and investing. What would your recommendation be?

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Heart For Lebanon
• Stash | Acorns | Betterment | Charles Schwab | Fidelity
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)
• 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 most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

“The wicked borrow but do not pay back, but the righteous is generous and gives.” – Psalm 37:21

When someone owes you money and doesn’t repay it, emotions can run high—frustration, hurt, and even resentment. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or fellow believer, unpaid debt can strain even the strongest relationships. So, how should we respond when repayment never comes? Let’s explore that together.

It’s natural to assume the worst when someone avoids repaying a debt. But Scripture calls us to pause and lead with understanding.

“Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly.” – Proverbs 14:29

The person who owes you might be experiencing genuine hardship, such as job loss, medical emergencies, or family struggles. Begin by asking how they’re doing. Show empathy. Offer flexibility, if possible, such as a revised payment plan. This can foster honest dialogue and reflect Christ’s love in action.

Before confronting the situation, pray. Ask God for wisdom, peace, and soft hearts on both sides. When you enter the conversation with prayerful humility, your response becomes a witness, not just a reaction.

If the debtor is a fellow believer and continues to avoid the issue, Jesus outlines a redemptive process in Matthew 18:

1. Speak privately to them.
2. If unresolved, bring one or two others.
3. If the issue remains unresolved, involve the church leadership.

The goal isn’t shame—it’s restoration. Seek truth and preserve the relationship, creating a path forward instead of building a wall.

In 1 Corinthians 6, Paul warns believers not to sue one another over civil matters, saying, “Why not rather be wronged?” Unity and love matter more than financial recovery. However, this doesn’t mean legal action is never appropriate.

If fraud, abuse, or serious legal injustice is involved, Romans 13 affirms that civil authorities exist to uphold justice. Seeking legal recourse in these situations may be necessary, especially if livelihoods are at stake. Just be sure your motivation is fairness, not revenge.

Regardless of the outcome, Jesus commands us to forgive:

“Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone…” – Mark 11:25

Forgiveness doesn’t ignore the debt—it chooses not to hold bitterness. Sometimes it leads to repentance; other times, it simply frees your heart.

Unpaid debt is frustrating—but temporary. Relationships, witness, and Christlike character endure. Ask not only, “How can I get this money back?” but “How can I reflect Jesus in this moment?” Generosity and forgiveness point to a Savior who forgave us when we had nothing to repay.

This topic is explored further in our Faithful Steward magazine. You can receive each quarterly issue by becoming a FaithFi Partner—just $35/month or $400/year at FaithFi.com/Give. Your support helps equip more believers for faithful stewardship.

• I'm in my 50s and want to buy a house. I have money saved for a down payment, but I'm unsure about two things. First, should I continue saving for a larger down payment or buy now with the money I have? Second, I want a mortgage, but I would like to know whether I should choose a shorter or longer mortgage term. I'm 54 years old, so I'm thinking about my timeline for paying off the mortgage.
• My brother and sister had a trust together with three houses. My sister has since passed away, and my brother is still alive. The trust already has money in it, and my brother is thinking about selling one of the houses. I would like to know: Does the money from the house sale have to be returned to the trust, or can my brother keep it?
• I'm about to start Social Security at my full retirement age in two months. My wife is considering taking Social Security at age 62. My question is about what happens if I pass away before her. If she's already receiving a reduced spousal benefit, will she then get 100% of my benefit at the new reduced amount, or will she be stuck with the same reduced percentage?
• My wife and I have a local revocable trust with property and investments. We're considering relocating to an Illinois senior living facility. I'm concerned: Will the state have any way to access our money and property?

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)
• 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 most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

“All his days are full of sorrow, and his work is a vexation. Even in the night his heart does not rest. This also is vanity.” — Ecclesiastes 2:23

That verse from Ecclesiastes reveals a painful truth: even a productive life can feel empty when the wrong purpose drives our work. Wealth on its own doesn’t bring peace—often, it brings more pressure. But Scripture offers a better way.

It’s easy to admire someone who plans wisely, saves consistently, and builds steadily over time. Our culture praises that kind of discipline as responsible and virtuous—and often, it is. But Ecclesiastes challenges us to ask: What’s driving all that effort?

In Ecclesiastes 2:18, the Preacher writes, “I hated all my toil... seeing that I must leave it to the man who will come after me.” He isn’t condemning hard work—he’s grieving that all he’s built will one day be handed off, possibly to someone who won’t value or steward it well.

That’s where sorrow begins—not in failure, but in success without peace. “All his days are full of sorrow, and his work is a vexation. Even in the night his heart does not rest” (Ecclesiastes 2:23). The more we accumulate, the more we fear losing it. What promised security only multiplies anxiety.

What a striking image—someone lying awake at night, not from failure, but from success. The more he possesses, the more he worries. This is the irony of accumulation: it convinces us that security is just one more achievement away, while quietly making us more anxious the more we gain.

Jesus echoes this same warning in Luke 12. He tells the parable of a rich man who reaped such a bountiful harvest that he decided to build bigger barns to store it all. His conclusion? “Take life easy—eat, drink, and be merry.” To the world, that sounds like winning. But Jesus calls him a fool. Why? Because that very night, his life would be demanded of him. Then comes the haunting question: “The things you have prepared, whose will they be?”

What’s even more interesting is the context of that parable. Jesus tells it in response to a man asking Him to settle an inheritance dispute. This wasn’t someone who earned the wealth—he simply wanted his share, and maybe more. Jesus’ warning is clear: a greedy heart isn’t the only danger. An entitled heart is just as spiritually destructive. And that’s exactly what the Preacher feared in Ecclesiastes—wealth falling into the hands of someone who didn’t labor for it and may not know how to handle it wisely.

We see this all the time in real life. Many financial advisors and estate planners will tell you that inherited wealth, especially when passed down without spiritual or emotional maturity, can do more harm than good. It can fracture families, distort priorities, and erode purpose. The problem isn’t money itself, it’s the absence of wisdom alongside it.

That’s why this lesson matters. You can save well, build wealth, and still feel anxious and unsatisfied—not because you failed, but because you expected your efforts to give you what only God can: peace, joy, and purpose.

But here’s the good news—Ecclesiastes doesn’t leave us in despair. In verse 26, we read, “To the one who pleases Him, God has given wisdom and knowledge and joy.” The solution isn’t to stop working or saving. The solution is to stop worshiping our work. Stop defining success by the size of your bank account and start defining it by your faithfulness to the One who owns it all.

When we live as stewards instead of owners, the pressure lifts. We begin to see wealth not as a prize to secure our future, but as a tool to serve God’s Kingdom. Accumulation loses its grip, and generosity takes root. That’s when real joy begins.

So, ask yourself today: Am I building bigger barns, or am I faithfully stewarding what God has already entrusted to me? Am I chasing peace through my possessions, or receiving it from the Prince of Peace Himself?

Because in the end, peace doesn’t come from what we’ve earned. It comes from who we trust.

Now, if you’re wrestling with these questions, we’d love to help. That’s why we’re excited to offer our brand-new Bible study based on Ecclesiastes called Wisdom Over Wealth. It dives deeper into this theme of dethroning the idol of accumulation and learning to live with contentment and purpose.

This month, when you support the ministry of FaithFi with a gift of $35 or more, we’ll send you Wisdom Over Wealth as our way of saying thank you. Just head over to FaithFi.com/wisdom to request your copy.

• I bought a house a year ago, and my primary goal is to pay off the mortgage as quickly as possible. I’m wondering if I should pause my 15% retirement contributions to accelerate my debt payoff goal or continue contributing to retirement while also working towards being debt-free.
• I want to understand the right markup for my business. I’m an electrician. What would be a reasonable general number for a company like mine to ensure I’m covering my costs and generating a profit?
• I opened a Roth IRA because I don't have to make required minimum distributions. When my children inherit my Roth IRA, do they have to make withdrawals? I want to understand the inheritance.
• I’m wondering about the $8,000 maximum Roth IRA contributions for those over 50. Is the $150,000 income limit based on my income alone or my combined income with my wife?
• I’m considering retiring at 65 even though my full Social Security retirement age is 67. If I live off my 401(k) for 2 years and don’t register for Social Security, will my benefits continue to grow?

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Movement Mortgage
• Social Security Administration (SSA.gov)
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)
• 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 most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

What if being great with money doesn’t guarantee you’re doing great with your spouse?

If you’re the “money person” in your marriage, you may think you’re doing everything right. But what if your spouse feels shut out of the process? It happens more than you think. Shaunti Feldhahn joins us today to talk about how you can avoid that disconnect or fix it if need be.

Shaunti Feldhahn is a Harvard graduate, former Wall Street analyst, social researcher, best-selling author, and a prominent public speaker. She is the co-author of Thriving in Love and Money: 5 Game-Changing Insights about Your Relationship, Your Money, and Yourself, written with her husband, Jeff, and has co-authored several books with him, revealing impactful truths about relationships at home and in the workplace.

Money-minded individuals often unknowingly send the message that their spouse’s financial opinions don’t matter. Even with good intentions and solid planning, failing to honor what your spouse values can damage not just your finances but your marriage.

Spouses who handle the finances might assume they’re right and the other is wrong. That unspoken belief, even if subtle, can lead one partner to feel dismissed—and that’s a dangerous place to be.

About two-thirds of spouses believe they know better than their partner how to manage finances. This is similar to how most people think they’re above-average drivers—statistically improbable, but psychologically common.

While it’s okay to have differing financial opinions, it becomes a problem when one partner consistently feels unheard or undervalued. Many “money people” may not even realize they’re doing this, but over time, it fosters resentment and undermines trust.

More than 80% of couples have differing financial values, which are often rooted in their childhood experiences, temperaments, or faith priorities.

For instance, one spouse may believe saving for college is urgent and non-negotiable. The other may feel that making memories with their children while they are young, such as taking a trip to Disney, is equally important. Neither is wrong. They're just different.

The danger lies in assuming that one value system is superior. If one spouse feels their values are constantly being overlooked, resentment can quietly grow until it spills over into other areas of the relationship.

The real danger isn’t only in the budget—it’s in the relationship.

If one person starts to feel like their opinions don’t matter, it doesn’t just affect money decisions. It becomes a marriage issue.

And this dynamic can even show up in financial advisor meetings, where professionals may unintentionally direct conversations toward the more financially-minded spouse. This reinforces the problem and risks charting a course toward relational misalignment.

In her article for Faithful Steward, Shaunti offers three practical steps to bring both voices to the table:

1. Ask Each Other a Simple Question
   
   At a neutral time—say, over morning coffee—ask:
   
   “On a scale of 1 to 5, how heard and valued do you feel in our financial decisions?”
   
   If the answer isn’t a 5, it’s a red flag—time for a deeper conversation.
    
2. Treat Less-than-Perfect Answers Seriously
   
   A “3” or “4” means something isn’t connecting. Don’t ignore it. The goal is for both spouses to feel their voice and values are part of the plan, even when you disagree.
    
3. Explore Your Financial Values Together
   
   Chapter 3 of her book, Thriving in Love and Money, maps out different “money values”—how people view experiences vs. things, time vs. money, or convenience vs. frugality. Shaunti encourages couples to read the chapter together (or separately with notes in the margins) to uncover hidden assumptions.

Shaunti also shares a personal example: she values time and convenience, so she’s happy to pay an extra $1.50 per movie ticket to reserve seats in advance. Jeff, her husband, sees that as unnecessary—he’d rather arrive early to save money.

Neither is “right.” However, understanding each other’s values helped them approach decisions with greater ease and grace, rather than conflict.

Remember, resentment is like a slow leak—it can go unnoticed until the tire blows out. But the antidote is simply listening with love and curiosity.

You can read her full article in Faithful Steward, our quarterly magazine designed to help you connect your faith with your finances. To receive four issues a year, along with our newest Bible studies and devotionals, become a FaithFi partner at FaithFi.com/Give.

• I’m a veteran receiving $1900 a month in benefits. I recently paid a penalty on my Social Security premium. I would like to know if there is any way this penalty can be waived due to my hardship situation.
• I have some stock that I want to sell, but I want to donate it to a charity so I don’t have to pay taxes. Can you tell me how to do this?

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Thriving in Love and Money: 5 Game-Changing Insights About Your Relationship, Your Money, and Yourself by Shaunti and Jeff Feldhahn
• National Christian Foundation (NCF)
• Fidelity | Charles Schwab
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)
• 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 most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

“For you know how, like a father with his children, we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.” - 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12

With Father’s Day approaching, we’re asking a deeper question: What kind of legacy are we leaving as men, as dads, and as stewards of what God has entrusted to us? Jonathan Lewis from Fathers for Fathers joins us to talk about fatherhood, faith, and the financial discipleship that shapes generations.

Jonathan Lewis is a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA®), a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®), and President of Eastport Financial Group Inc. He is also the founder of Fathers for Fathers, a faith-based organization dedicated to restoring hope, healing, and purpose in the lives of men, especially fathers. 

When Jonathan was 15, he experienced a trauma no child should face—dragging his father’s lifeless body onto a beach in Nova Scotia after a drowning accident. That moment became a fracture point in his life, leading to years of instability, homelessness, guilt, and emotional isolation.

But out of those ashes came clarity: a calling to reach other men who feel lost, alone, and ashamed. His ministry, Fathers for Fathers, is a direct response to the epidemic of fatherlessness and emotional isolation plaguing men today.

84% of men say they don’t have a single person they can talk to.

Guys have been trained to withdraw, but we need each other. If you’re listening and feel like you’ve failed as a father, or you don’t even have the strength to keep going, you’re not alone. You can do this, but not by yourself.

The solution is community and accountability. And for men who do have a support system, pursue others. Don’t take the first 12 ‘no’s as a brush-off. Broken men want to be pursued. They’re just afraid.

So, what does it mean to be a successful father?

First, if you’re still breathing, your story isn’t over. You haven’t missed your chance.

Using a football analogy from Fathers for Fathers’ upcoming study, life can be described as a game we’re all born into—on the wrong team. But we don’t have to stay there. Through Jesus Christ, we’re invited to join the winning team. But it requires repentance, humility, and a willingness to fight.

And it often starts with small steps.

For divorced dads and those estranged from their children, you may think there’s no way back. But there is. If you’re not in your kids’ lives, start. If you haven’t supported their mom, own it. If you’ve been battling secret sin—confess it.

These are hard words, but they’re spoken with deep compassion. God will honor you when you honor Him. This ministry isn’t about beating men up. It’s about helping them get back in the game.

Stewardship isn’t just about money. If you’re generous with your wealth but not your love or your time, you’ve missed the point.

Stewardship begins with the way a man loves and leads his family, especially his wife. When reading Ephesians 5, men might say, ‘I’d take a bullet for my wife.’ But Christ calls us to something harder: dying to ourselves daily.

Stewardship, then, is about priorities: honoring God with your money, your time, your attention, and your affection.

If you’re a father or a man who feels discouraged, who is ready for more, and who is just hanging on. Pray this out loud:

“Lord, I pray that Your Spirit would touch the heart of the man listening who thinks he’s too far gone. Remind him that nothing can separate us from Your love, not even failure. Let him know Jesus already put on the jersey for him. I pray for courage, for repentance, and for grace. Thank you for the scandalous grace that says You would’ve sent Jesus for just one man. You sent Him for all of us.”

If you’re a father who feels broken, or if you know one, visit FathersForFathers.org. You’ll find tools, encouragement, and a brotherhood of men committed to healing and hope.

This Father’s Day, let’s not just celebrate the dads who’ve done it right. Let’s rally around the men who are trying to get it right, one step at a time.

• I’m curious about nursing home costs and what happens to my parents' assets. I learned that Medicare covers limited skilled nursing care, and Medicaid restricts asset access, meaning my siblings and I likely won’t be able to access their money while they’re in a nursing home.
• I’m currently working and planning to retire soon. How could I invest in ways that align with my faith and ensure I'm not supporting companies that go against my beliefs?
• I wanted clarification on fixed indexed annuities. I wasn’t familiar with them and wanted to understand if they were a good investment option.

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Fathers For Fathers
• List of Faith-Based Investment Funds
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)
• 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 most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Proverbs 16:16 says, “How much better to get wisdom than gold! To get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.”

In a world that chases wealth as the ultimate goal, Scripture calls us to something better—wisdom. Because without godly wisdom, even abundance can lead us astray. Today, Jim Newheiser joins us to explore why wisdom, not money, is the true measure of success in God’s economy. 

Dr. James (Jim) Newheiser, Jr., is the Director of the Christian Counseling Program and Professor of Christian Counseling and Pastoral Theology at RTS Charlotte. He is also the author of several books on the subject of counseling, as well as Money: Seeking God’s Wisdom (31-Day Devotionals for Life).

Isaiah 55:2 details an account where the Lord asks, “Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy?” It’s a poignant reminder that many of us chase things that leave us empty. How we spend our time and money reflects what we value. Yet so often, those values are shaped by a world that overpromises and underdelivers.

Instead of finding fulfillment in wealth, ultimate satisfaction comes from our relationship with God and the good gifts He provides. Time spent in Scripture, prayer, and worship is far more nourishing than any financial gain. Even the principle of rest in Scripture is God’s reminder that we don’t need to fill every waking moment with striving.

The book of Proverbs is interesting because in this compilation in Scripture, wisdom is personified as a noble woman worth pursuing, while folly appears as a seductive but destructive adulteress. Proverbs sets up a contrast because Lady Wisdom is like the soul’s true bride. She brings joy and delight. But Madame Folly, who represents false promises like the pursuit of money for its own sake, is spiritual adultery, and she leads to misery.

The point is clear: what we pursue will shape us. Chase wisdom, and you’ll find joy and lasting purpose. Chase wealth, and you may find yourself grasping at the wind.

How do we actually live out this pursuit of wisdom over wealth? For someone who’s not used to reading Scripture regularly, it can start with just two pages a day or with a chapter of Proverbs a day. Ask God to speak to you through it.

God has promised something far better than material wealth—His presence, His wisdom, and His joy.

There’s such a huge connection between our hearts and our money, and God is ultimately after our hearts.

If you’re ready to go deeper in your walk with God by rethinking your financial life through the lens of biblical wisdom, Wisdom Over Wealth is a great place to start. This new 12-lesson study from FaithFi, based on Ecclesiastes, unpacks how true joy isn’t found in accumulation but in reverence, surrender, and trust.

You can receive a copy of Wisdom Over Wealth when you become a FaithFi Partner. Your monthly gift of $35, or annual gift of $400, helps us continue to share biblical financial wisdom across the globe. Visit FaithFi.com/give to partner with us today.

• I have a TIAA retirement account from my husband's time as an adjunct professor at a local community college. It's a small amount. As I'm 76, I'm required to set aside a certain amount each year. I would like to give this to my son now so that those amounts can stay in the account and start accruing interest. Can I do that?
• We have a credit card balance of $15,000 with an interest rate of 11%. We try to pay $2,000 a month, but the balance keeps increasing. Part of the reason is that our 29-year-old daughter, who lives and works in London, has a card on our account. We initially gave her the card for emergencies and plane tickets home, but she's using it for other expenses, such as occasional Ubers and travel. We really want to pay off this card, but we can't make any progress. What can we do?

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Money: Seeking God's Wisdom (31-Day Devotionals for Life) by Dr. Jim Newheiser
• SelectQuote
• National Christian Foundation (NCF)
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)
• 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 most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Missionary Amy Carmichael once expressed a powerful truth: “You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving.”

That quote reminds us that generosity isn’t just something we do—it reflects who we are in Christ. So, how do we grow into more joyful, intentional givers? Today, we’ll talk with Ron Blue about what he calls “living giving”— and how that mindset can bring real financial freedom.

Ron Blue is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, most notably Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment.

Giving reflects our trust in God. When we give—and give first—we’re saying, “Lord, You gave this to me, and I’m returning to You what’s already Yours. I trust You to meet my needs.”

It’s a profound shift in perspective. Instead of centering our financial lives on ourselves, giving reorients our hearts toward God’s purposes. It stretches our faith and loosens money’s grip on our hearts. It doesn’t shrink your life—it expands it.

Ron Blue classically says, “Do your giving while you’re living so you’re knowing where it’s going.” That’s more than a catchy phrase. It’s a philosophy rooted in joy. Too many people wait until death to make significant gifts, missing the delight of seeing God work through their generosity in real time.

There’s something deeply joyful about watching God use what you’ve given. It’s not just about writing a will—it’s about living with open hands.

Think of your money like a closed fist or an open hand. When your fist is closed, you’re trying to control or keep what you think is yours. But when you open your hand, you’re saying to God, “This is Yours. Use it as You will.”

That’s what true financial freedom looks like—not merely having enough, but being free from money’s control altogether. God doesn’t need our money, He wants our hearts. And He knows that money is one of the greatest competitors for our love.

As you reflect on your own financial life, maybe it’s time to stop asking, “How much do I have to give?” And start asking, “How can I use what I’ve been given to glorify God—right now?”

You can find Ron’s book Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment wherever books are sold.

• I use a donor-advised fund for charitable contributions and would like to contribute to a mission trip that my church is organizing. I'm wondering if it’s legal from an IRS standpoint to contribute directly to an individual going on a mission trip, or do I give it to the mission fund?
• I’m paying off a credit card after my mom’s death, which costs me $320 a month. I have two options: continue with my current plan or have my wife assist me in paying it off. I wanted to get advice on which approach would be the best to help pay it off.
• I sell items on eBay, and I’m confused about my tax reporting. When preparing my 2024 taxes, eBay flagged me about my 1099-K, stating that I didn’t make enough to require the form. Do I need to add this to my Social Security? As I look online, I’ve just gotten more confused about different reporting requirements.
• I’m taking an early retirement, and I understand that I can only earn $24,300 before it impacts my Social Security. It looks like I’m going to go over that amount by just a bit. Do they tax anything over the $24,300, or do they tax the whole amount?

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment by Ron Blue
• Christian Credit Counselors
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)
• 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 most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.