What would you do if you found something so valuable, so life-altering, that you gladly gave up everything else just to have it? That’s the image Jesus gives us in Matthew 13—two brief parables, one powerful message. They remind us of a truth that can reframe not just our faith, but our finances, especially in uncertain times.

In Matthew 13:44–46, Jesus says:

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.”

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.”

In both parables, something of immense value is found, and the response is total surrender. But not begrudgingly. Not in fear. In joy. That joy is everything. It’s the natural overflow of discovering something so worthy, so beautiful, so eternally good that it reorders your entire life. All other pursuits fade in comparison.

Let’s be honest—most days don’t feel like we’ve just struck eternal treasure. In today’s economy, with interest rates up, inflation lingering, and layoffs still in the news, you might feel like you’re just trying to stay afloat. You’re not alone if you’re grasping for security, calculating risks, or losing sleep over your monthly expenses.

But here’s the good news: even in uncertain times, Jesus extends the same invitation. He’s saying there is something more valuable than everything you own. And that something is someone—Him.

When Jesus becomes your treasure, money loses its power to control you. You’re no longer tethered to the markets, to your salary, or to your fears. Your peace isn’t tied to your portfolio—it’s anchored in God’s unshakable Kingdom.

That’s what Paul discovered in Philippians 3:7–8:

“Whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.”

Paul had status and influence, but he gave it all up when he found the true treasure in Christ.

We see this again in the Macedonian believers in 2 Corinthians 8. Even in deep poverty, they gave with joy—not because they had extra, but because they understood Christ's surpassing worth. They didn’t view giving as a loss but as a gain.

Here’s the paradox: when you release your grip on material things, you make room to take hold of eternal things. Stewardship becomes joyful. Giving becomes worship. And peace begins to replace pressure.

But let’s not pretend it’s always easy. Sometimes, the treasure feels far away. The joy is buried beneath fear. The anxiety drowns out trust. Jesus anticipated this, too. In Matthew 10:29–31, He says:

“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father... Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”

God sees you. He knows your needs. And His care for you isn’t based on your net worth, but your infinite worth to Him.

That’s the heartbeat behind our 21-day devotional, Look at the Sparrows. Created by our team at FaithFi, this devotional helps center your heart on God’s promises, His presence, and His provision.

Because when you’re standing in a storm, you need more than a budget—you need a Savior. And He’s not far off. As Jeremiah 29:13 promises:

“You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.”

When Jesus is your treasure, everything changes. You steward your money with open hands, not clenched fists. You invest in what truly matters. You trade the stress of accumulation for the peace of contentment. And yes, joy returns.

So if your heart is anxious today, remember the man who bought the field. Remember the merchant who found the pearl. And remember the Savior who invites you to find lasting treasure in Him.

Order your copy of Look at the Sparrows at FaithFi.com. Click “Shop” to get a copy for yourself—or buy in bulk for your church or small group.

• I'm retired and living on Social Security with no debt. I have key expenses paid off, and I'm pulling about $1,900 a month from Social Security. Whenever I have a significant project for the house, I pull money out of an IRA that my broker has set up. Is this the best way to finance these projects so that I can remain debt-free and avoid incurring any interest?
• I have a 401(k), and I'm wondering how I can invest according to my values with the available options. It seems like the only options are big companies that I'd rather not invest in. Do you have any suggestions?
• We recently sold our house for a good profit, and I'd like to know how we should tithe on it. Do we tithe on the full amount we received, or only what goes above the initial price and the interest we paid on it?
• My wife and I are purchasing a home this year. The credit union offers us a standard 30-year mortgage with one monthly payment and a bi-weekly payment plan. I want to know which option would be better and the pros and cons.
• I used to be poor about 25 years ago and filed bankruptcy for $3,500. Now I receive my ex-husband's Social Security, and I would like to see about possibly paying back the bankruptcy debt.

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• 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 4:26 reminds us, “Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.”

That’s a call to intentional living—choosing wisdom over impulse, especially in how we manage our money. We often emphasize that budgeting isn’t just about numbers—it’s about aligning your resources with God’s purposes.

Matt Bell, a trusted voice in biblical finance, recently wrote about the contrast between cultural and Christian approaches to budgeting. He notes that culture gives your money a script:

“Make $80,000 a year. Then move into this neighborhood, drive that car, wear these clothes, eat in these restaurants, and take these vacations. Then you can give.”

In this model, spending comes first and usually leads to debt. If we're lucky, we might save or give with what’s left. The result? Financial stress, shrinking savings, and a fading sense of contentment.

But what if budgeting isn’t just a spending plan—it’s a sacred trust?

Deuteronomy 8:18 says, “You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth.” 

Your income is a gift and a responsibility. Imagine God saying:

“I’m entrusting you with $80,000 this year. Use it to reflect My love—meet needs, fund ministry, invest in My Kingdom. Save wisely. Enjoy what I’ve provided.”

This echoes 1 Timothy 6:17, which reminds us that God “richly provides us with everything to enjoy.” With a biblical framework, our financial decisions flip the cultural script:

• Give first
• Then save and invest
• Then spend wisely
• And use debt sparingly

Paul David Tripp puts it this way:

“God calls us to stop starting with ourselves and hoping there’s money left over for him. Instead, the call is to willingly and joyfully accept that our money’s primary purpose is to fund a kingdom of generosity… and then trust that God will provide what we need.”

Jesus warned in Matthew 7:26–27 that anyone who builds their life on shifting sand—hearing His words but not doing them—will find their house collapsing in the storm. A budget based on biblical principles isn’t just practical—it’s foundational. It anchors our financial lives to the truth of God’s Word.

If you're ready to build your finances on that foundation, it helps to partner with others who share your values. That’s why we’re grateful for Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU).

More than a bank, CCCU is a financial institution with a Kingdom mission. They offer everything you’d expect—checking, savings, loans, mortgages—but they also invest your deposits in ministries that serve the Gospel worldwide. Every dollar becomes a tool for transformation.

If you’re seeking a trusted financial partner that aligns with your faith and fuels your impact, learn more at JoinChristianCommunity.com.

Budgeting isn’t about restriction—it’s about worship. It’s about saying, “Lord, everything I have is from You and for You.” When we carefully consider our financial paths, we begin to experience the freedom, peace, and joy of Kingdom stewardship.

• I will be full retirement age in August. I'm still working, so my Social Security will be a surplus that I want to put toward my home. I still owe $82,000 on it, but I also know it needs many repairs. Does it make more sense to put this extra cash flow toward repairs, paying down the mortgage, or a little bit of both?
• What's the difference between getting a debt consolidation loan or working with a debt counselor?
• I just wanted general information about universal index life insurance. It seems too good to be true. I've heard that you put money in, and it always increases, but you never lose money out of there, like in the case with stocks.
• I have a colleague with $12,000 in student debt. He wants to pay $1,000 down and the rest over time, but I think he should pay it off completely now. What's the best method for him to save money and pay off the debt quickly?

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU)
• 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.

“Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever…” - Proverbs 27:23-24

These days, our “flocks and herds” often look like stocks and mutual funds, not sheep and cattle. But the call to wise stewardship remains. One way we do that is through proxy voting. Jerry Bowyer joins us to explain how and why it matters.  

Jerry Bowyer is the President of Bowyer Research and our Resident Economist here at Faith & Finance. He is the author of The Maker Versus the Takers: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics.

Proxy voting is similar to civic voting. As a citizen, you vote in elections, attend town halls, and even influence legislation. As a shareholder in a company, if you own the stock directly, you have similar rights: to vote on proposals, ask questions, and even submit resolutions.

But if you're invested through mutual funds or ETFs, you hand that vote over to someone else—often a fund manager or institution. And unless you know how they’re voting, your values may not be represented at all.

Many Christian ministries, nonprofits, and even pro-life organizations are unknowingly voting against their own missions. Why? Because they either don’t engage in proxy voting or delegate it without vetting the recipient’s values.

Proxy statements are often long, complex, and written in confusing legal language. For that reason, many advisors default to saying, “Just let the client decide,” rather than helping them engage meaningfully.

Of course, that’s not a good sign because if it’s too complex for the advisor, it’s definitely too complex for the client. Instead, we encourage advisors and Christian investors to partner with specialists, like Bowyer Research, who can help decode the process and ensure votes reflect biblical values.

They offer audits to show investors how they’ve been voting—often to their shock. They’ve never done one where people weren’t stunned by what they saw.

If you're invested through mutual funds or ETFs, you're likely not voting directly. However, that doesn't mean you're powerless. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• You can request data on how your funds are voting. Bowyer Research tracks that.
   
• You can explore “direct indexing” solutions—an increasingly available strategy that allows you to own shares directly and reclaim your voting rights.
   
• You can ask your advisor questions. “How am I voting?” is a simple but powerful question. If your advisor can’t answer it, that’s a red flag.

• Ask your advisor how your shares are being voted. If they don’t know, press in.
• Get an audit of your proxy voting records through BowyerResearch.com.
• Talk to companies, not just about them. Change happens through engagement, not complaint.

If you’re an investor, advisor, or leader at a Christian ministry or nonprofit, don’t let your investments work against your mission. Visit BowyerResearch.com to learn how to align your proxy voting with your values.

• I'm 27 and own 20 acres of land. Should I use the land as collateral for a house loan, or use my saved money to get a bigger loan and increase my land's equity?
• I opened a Roth IRA with National Life Group in 2013. It's past the surrender fee date, but it's not earning me much. I'll be 66 in July, and I'm single with no one to depend on. I also have another annuity with F and G that I'm not happy with. What should I do with these investments?

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

Did you hear about the mortgage broker who always ate lunch alone? Yep—it turns out he was a loaner.

Okay, a bit of levity to start the program today, but you know what’s serious business? Buying or selling a home. Are spring and summer still prime seasons to jump into the market? Dale Vermillion joins us for insight on today’s real estate and mortgage trends. 

Dale Vermillion is the author of Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home. This book covers everything you need to know about securing a mortgage—all from a biblical perspective.

While spring and summer are still active seasons, seasonality in real estate isn’t what it used to be. The rise of online listings means people shop for homes year-round. However, warmer weather, the end of the school year, and a desire for fresh starts still push many families to buy and sell during this time.

There’s a lot of activity right now. Listings are up over 700,000—33% more homes than last year. And new home sales? Up to 76,000 in just the last 30 days.

With more homes on the market and fewer buyers competing, this may be the best opportunity to buy a home since 2021.

If you’re on the selling side, you’ll need more than a “For Sale” sign. Here are a few key steps to rise above the noise:

• Price your home right from day one. Use recent comps, a professional appraisal, and work with a local agent who knows your area.
   
• Stage your home well. With more buyers relying on online home tours and 360° walkthroughs, curb appeal and clean, well-lit interiors matter more than ever.
   
• Declutter and simplify. Remove excess items and ensure the space feels open and welcoming—both inside and out.

For starters, you need to understand that pre-approval is not the same as pre-qualification. Pre-qualification is often based on unverified info. You want a full pre-approval, where your application, income, credit, and down payment are all verified.

This not only makes your offer more attractive to sellers but also helps you understand what you can realistically afford. And that’s the other key point—know your budget. Don’t rely solely on what a lender says you qualify for.

• Create a detailed budget based on your actual income and expenses.
• Consider your long-term financial goals, not just your current desires.
• Most importantly, pray about your decision. Ask God for wisdom and peace before making such a significant commitment.

Many are still waiting for interest rates to drop—but experts say don’t hold your breath.

The Fed rate may drop a few times this year, but that mostly affects short-term debt like credit cards and auto loans. Mortgage rates, on the other hand, are driven by the 10-year Treasury note.

As inflation eases, mortgage rates may follow, but they’re expected to remain relatively stable for now.

If you’re a buyer, now could be the right time to act, with high inventory and lower competition. But as always, make sure your decision is rooted in financial wisdom and prayerful dependence on God. Only buy what you can afford, and trust the Lord through the process.

• I just retired and received a $20,000 check. I'm not sure what I should do with this money. I have a Roth, some savings, an annuity, and a 401(k), but I haven't talked to a financial planner about my current financial status. What should I do with this $20,000?
• I write one check every Sunday to tithe to my church. If everything goes electronic, I don't know how to track it.
• As I get closer to having my home paid off, I would like to know if it's better to keep an outstanding balance on my mortgage to maintain the mortgage credit and homestead credit for property taxes, or just pay off the home and deal with increased taxes.
• Years ago, when we were leading classes with Howard Dayton, our group discussed how collecting offerings at church feels very personal. When the offering basket is passed and a deacon holds it, we almost see it as Jesus' hand holding out the basket. It becomes a very personal act of giving, almost like giving directly to Jesus himself. I'm curious how many people over 65 still write a lot of checks.

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Bankrate.com
• Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU)
• An Uncommon Guide to Retirement: Finding God's Purpose for the Next Season of Life by Jeff Haanen
• Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home by Dale Vermillion
• 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.

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” — Matthew 6:21

That powerful truth from Jesus captures the heart of FaithFi’s mission and vision.

If money issues are ultimately heart issues, then we need more than financial tips—we need a heart change that helps us see God as our ultimate treasure. Today, Taylor Standridge joins us to explore the deeper purpose behind FaithFi and how you can partner in that mission.

Taylor Standridge is the Production Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance and the co-author of Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety.

It’s pretty ironic that the stock market graph sometimes looks like a heart rate monitor. The point? Many people’s emotions—and even their sense of hope—are tied to their financial situation. When the market dips, so does their peace.

But Scripture offers a better way: “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7).

If your peace mirrors the market, it may be a spiritual warning light. Scripture calls us to set our minds on things above, not on the volatility of our savings accounts.

At the core of FaithFi is a calling to help people glorify God through wise financial decisions. But our vision shapes how we do it: to see every Christian view God as their ultimate treasure.

In Jesus's words during the Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 6:21 tells us, "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Christian finance is about more than avoiding debt or giving to good causes. Those are great goals, but Jesus is calling us to something deeper: to reexamine what we treasure in the first place.

It’s not about giving more, it’s about loving God more. That’s why even the Pharisees, who gave plenty, were still rebuked—because their hearts weren’t surrendered. When Christ becomes our greatest joy, giving becomes cheerful, not dutiful.

One of the biggest struggles we see on the show frequently is the tension between trusting God and trusting in financial security.

The culture says to get more and upgrade everything. But the gospel calls us to steward our resources for God’s Kingdom. Ultimately, money can never define our worth—it can only serve as a tool when our identity is rooted in Christ.

This book reminds us that wealth, possessions, and even success are fleeting. Apart from God, they’re meaningless—just vapor, or ‘hevel’ as Ecclesiastes puts it.

But when we view money as a gift from God, not the goal, its purpose becomes clear. Ecclesiastes invites us to stop chasing what won’t last and start investing in what will.

That’s why we’re excited about the release of our latest study, Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money, authored by John Cortines. Ecclesiastes speaks so much to our modern struggles with wealth, showing us both the futility of placing our hopes in riches and the true path to a life grounded in God’s wisdom. You’ll find that this study will challenge you to rethink your relationship with money and inspire deeper trust in God’s provision and sovereignty.

To get your copy, you can either pre-order it at FaithFi.com/Shop or request a copy to be sent to you when you make a gift of $35 or more to the ministry of FaithFi at FaithFi.com/Give. 

FaithFi isn’t just about biblical theory—it’s about real-life application. There are several ways we equip people to live out God-honoring stewardship:

• The FaithFi App—A budgeting tool built on biblical values like generosity, margin, and contentment. It even includes a vibrant in-app community with Certified Christian Financial Counselors (CertCFCs) and Certified Kingdom Advisors (CKAs). 
   
• Radio + Podcast—Daily encouragement and wisdom for wherever you are on your financial journey.
   
• Devotionals & Studies—Tools like Look at the Sparrows and Wisdom Over Wealth are helping individuals and churches connect their faith and finances.
   
• Faithful Steward Magazine—A quarterly, beautifully designed resource full of rich theology, practical advice, and real-life encouragement—exclusively for FaithFi Partners.

The best way to support FaithFi's work is to become a FaithFi Partner—someone who gives $35 a month or more, or at least $400 a year. 

In return, partners receive early access to our Bible studies and devotionals, full access to the FaithFi Pro App, and quarterly issues of Faithful Steward. But more importantly, they help millions of people discover how to treasure God above all else.

If this vision resonates with you, visit FaithFi.com/Give and join us.

• I want to know if charities have to follow minimum wage laws in Florida or the United States.
• I have about $130,000 between two IRAs, I owe about $125,000 on my mortgage, and about $15,000 on an auto loan. I have a $250,000 term life policy that ends in 2027. I'm shopping around and want to know how much life insurance I should buy, and if you're in favor of life insurance.
• What's the difference between a Roth IRA and a regular IRA? And can an individual open a 401(k) without being an employee?

• 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.

“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” – 2 Timothy 1:5

Mother’s Day invites us to reflect on the deep, often quiet influence of a mother’s faith. The Apostle Paul’s words to Timothy reveal that sincere faith often passes from one generation to the next through the loving guidance of mothers and grandmothers. Today, we celebrate that legacy.

When we think about the value of moms, it’s usually in terms of intangible gifts—love, wisdom, compassion, and sacrifice. These are treasures that can’t be priced.

But what if we did try to measure the economic value of a mother’s daily work?

According to Salary.com, a working mother averages 54 hours a week managing her household in addition to her job. Stay-at-home moms? They often work the equivalent of 15-hour days, seven days a week. The roles include everything from chef and nurse to financial manager, event planner, and counselor.

Based on these duties, a mother’s annual salary would exceed $185,000—and that’s before bonuses, overtime, or hazard pay. Factoring in those extras, a stay-at-home mom could easily command over $200,000 a year. And truthfully, she’s worth every penny.

Still, even that figure falls short of her true worth. The value of a mother’s love and faithfulness can’t be calculated. It's personal. It's spiritual. It’s eternal.

The Bible doesn’t just acknowledge the role of mothers—it esteems it. Proverbs 31:28 paints a moving picture of a godly woman’s reward:

“Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”

Honoring your mother starts with your words. Tell her what she means to you. Thank her for the sacrifices she has made and the ways she has reflected God’s love in your life.

But biblical honor doesn’t end with gratitude. It matures into care, especially as our mothers age.

In Mark 7:10–13, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for neglecting their duty to care for their parents, even though they claimed their resources were dedicated to God. Their so-called righteousness became a mask for selfishness. Jesus made it clear: caring for your parents is not optional; it's a direct expression of your devotion to God.

In today’s terms, honoring your mother might look like:

• Making time for her amid your busy schedule
• Offering financial assistance or managing her needs
• Including her in decisions that affect the family
• Listening with patience and respect
• Praying for and with her regularly

These acts aren’t just thoughtful gestures—they reflect the heart of Scripture and offer a meaningful way to live out our faith in everyday life.

Whether it’s your biological mom, your wife, a grandmother, or a spiritual mother who’s poured into your life, this Sunday is your opportunity to show them they’re not alone or forgotten.

Let her know she’s seen. Let her know she’s loved. Let her know that her quiet faithfulness—the prayers whispered, the tears cried, the meals made, the lessons taught—isn’t wasted. It is, in fact, shaping generations and pointing hearts toward Jesus.

Because when a mother models faith, she’s not just building a home—she’s shaping eternity.

This Mother’s Day, let’s rise up and call her blessed, not just with words, but with actions that honor God and her.

• Is Bitcoin something that someone should have in their portfolio? I don't necessarily know much about it, so I don't invest in it, especially since I'll be going into retirement.
• My husband and I have an annuity, and I'd like to know how we can make charitable donations from it.
• My daughter has two student loans totaling approximately $15,000, with Mohela serving as the loan servicer. With the interest deferment ending in September, I'd like to know if we can negotiate to pay off the loans at a reduced amount, or should we pay them off if we have the funds available?
• I am the executor of my father's estate, and I'm 67 years old. Last December, the estate planner surprised me by saying we had to take a required minimum distribution (RMD). This year, I would like the RMD to be donated to a charitable organization. How do I set that up?

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine
• 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.

“The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.” – Proverbs 22:3

That verse reminds us that wisdom means planning ahead, especially when it comes to life’s most serious emergencies. If something were to happen to you, would your family know how to manage the finances, pay the bills, or access important documents? Today, Dr. Art Rainer joins us to walk through how to create a financial emergency binder.

Dr. Art Rainer is the founder of the Institute for Christian Financial Health and Christian Money Solutions. He is a regular contributor here at Faith & Finance and the author of Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose.

Life is full of unexpected turns, and while we trust God in all things, wisdom calls us to prepare, especially when it comes to our finances and family care.

Consider the questions every household should be able to answer:

• What happens if you or your spouse is hospitalized?
• Would someone know how to manage your bills and care for your children?
• If you were to pass away unexpectedly, would your family know where to find your vital documents?

Sadly, many families are left overwhelmed and directionless in moments of crisis because these preparations were never made. Yet this kind of confusion can be avoided through a simple but powerful step: organizing essential information before it’s urgently needed.

An emergency binder is a centralized location—digital and physical—where your most critical information is stored. This includes:

• Financial accounts and passwords
• Medical records and contacts
• Insurance information
• Bill due dates and utilities
• Funeral wishes
• Childcare instructions
• And more.

Preparing an emergency binder may not feel urgent, but when the unexpected happens, it becomes priceless. Organizing your household’s key information is a tangible expression of love, wisdom, and care. It’s a simple act of stewardship that offers comfort, clarity, and care when it matters most.

Creating an emergency binder might sound overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

Here’s a simple approach: work on one section at a time. Set aside 30 to 60 minutes a day to focus on gathering the necessary documents for each category. This bite-sized method turns a daunting project into a doable one.

And once it's complete? Print it out. A red three-ring binder is a wise choice for easy identification in an emergency. Store it in a secure, fireproof location, and ensure that your loved ones are aware of its location. It’s also wise to keep a digital backup, securely stored and shared with trusted family members.

If you’re thinking, “I wish someone would just do this for me,” you’re in luck. Art and his team have created The Essential Emergency Binder—a beautifully designed resource with over 60 pages of templates and instructions to help you get started quickly and confidently.

You can find it at EssentialEmergencyBinder.com.

• I want to consolidate our investments. We have a pension, Social Security, Roth IRAs, a 401(k), and traditional IRAs at two different financial institutions. Is it better to have everything in one place?
• I'm concerned about how my church is spending its tithe money on items like a drum set and library donations, rather than traditional ministries. Is this the right way for a church to use funds?
• I've received a six-figure inheritance from my uncle in Florida, which includes checking, savings, a money market account, and a Lutheran annuity. I would like to confirm that there is no inheritance tax in Ohio. I'm considering investing the money in CDs through my bank's Certificate of Deposit (CD) program. Can you confirm the tax situation and advise me on this approach?

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine
• Essential Emergency Binder
• 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.

If you believe the highest goal of investing is simply to earn a high return, you may be overlooking a deeper purpose—how our money can be used for good.

As investors, we’ve been given resources to manage, not just for profit, but in alignment with God’s will and values. It’s easy to see investing through a purely earthly lens, but God invites us into a much greater story. Today, Robin John joins us to explore that bigger vision.

Robin John is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at Eventide Asset Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. He’s also the author of the forthcoming book, The Good Investor: How Your Work Can Confront Injustice, Love Your Neighbor, and Bring Healing to the World.

Eventide’s tagline—“Investing that makes the world rejoice”—is more than marketing. It’s a biblical conviction inspired by Proverbs:

“When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices, but when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy.” – Proverbs 11:10

Righteousness, in this context, refers to those who seek the good of others. The righteous prosper by looking out for the people in the city. But the wicked prosper through exploitation, especially of the poor. That leads to groaning, not rejoicing.

For Eventide, investing is about more than avoiding harm. It’s about actively investing in companies whose products and practices bring tangible good into the world—serving real needs, not exploiting vulnerabilities.

A common concern among faith-based investors is whether aligning values with investments means sacrificing returns.

Romans 12 tells us “not to conform to the patterns of this world but be transformed by the renewing of our minds.” That means we should be willing to make sacrifices if necessary. But that doesn’t mean underperformance.

Research from the Biblically Responsible Investing Institute, drawing on a 19-year study, compares values-based screening (which excludes companies involved in activities such as abortion, pornography, and tobacco) with the S&P 500 and yields equivalent long-term returns.

It’s a myth that you must compromise performance to honor your faith. At Eventide, they don’t just avoid the bad—we seek out the good.

The Ultimate Question, as posed by Bain consultant Fred Reichheld, also found that the most successful companies are those that best serve their customers and employees. Serving people well is good business, and it often leads to long-term outperformance.

John Wesley once said, ‘Make all you can, give all you can, but make all you can without hurting yourself or your neighbor.”

Proverbs 1:19 also warns against partnering with those who gain through unjust means. It’s not just what we give—it’s how we earn that matters to God. Ill-gotten gain is not pleasing to Him.

Generosity isn’t limited to charitable giving. A teacher choosing to serve children instead of pursuing a higher-paying career is living generously, even without writing a check.

Robin's passion is to see everyday Christians empowered to invest in ways that reflect their values. His upcoming book, The Good Investor: How Your Work Can Confront Injustice, Love Your Neighbor, and Bring Healing to the World, aims to help believers do just that.

The Good Investor doesn’t stop at money—it’s also a book about purpose and calling. Don’t assume your calling means you have to start something new. Many Christians are exactly where God needs them to be. The real challenge is to recognize your work as valuable to God and do it in a way that reflects His goodness.

Psalm 1:3 emphasizes that the blessed life is rooted in delighting in God’s Word and walking in His ways:

“That person is like a tree planted by streams of water...whatever they do prospers.”

Robin’s new book, The Good Investor: How Your Work Can Confront Injustice, Love Your Neighbor, and Bring Healing to the World, will be released on July 22 and is available for pre-order now wherever books are sold.

This is a must-read for any Christian who wants to rethink investing through the lens of God’s Kingdom—and rediscover the purpose and power of their everyday financial decisions.

• I have a 401(k) from my old school district job with approximately $7,000-$8,000 in it. I'm 55 and want to know if I should roll it over into my new company's retirement plan and what I should do with my IRA.
• I remarried after my first wife passed away. If I die, can my late wife's kids force my new wife out of our house, and how can I protect her?

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine
• Eventide Asset Management
• The Good Investor: How Your Work Can Confront Injustice, Love Your Neighbor, and Bring Healing to the World by Robin C. John
• The Ultimate Question 2.0: How Net Promoter Companies Thrive in a Customer-Driven World by Fred Reichheld with Rob Markey
• 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.

Are our efforts to help the poor always helpful, or could they sometimes do more harm than good?

Today, we’ll explore how short-term missions can genuinely reflect the heart of Christ and bring lasting change, without unintentionally hurting the very people we aim to serve. Dr. Brian Fikkert joins us for that conversation.

Dr. Brian Fikkert is a Professor of Economics and Community Development and the Founder and President of the Chalmers Center for Economic Development at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. He is also the co-author of the book, Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions.

Americans often define poverty materially—a lack of necessities, such as food, clean water, clothing, or shelter. As a result, short-term mission trips often center around distributing goods or completing construction projects. But when you ask materially poor individuals around the world what poverty means to them, they describe feelings of shame, helplessness, and a lack of dignity.

This reveals a disconnect: while we view poverty as a lack of material possessions, those experiencing it often define it in relational, psychological, and spiritual terms. True poverty is brokenness in relationship—with God, self, others, and creation. That insight should transform how we approach short-term missions.

Even the most well-intentioned trips can do harm. Why? Because those going on these trips may carry pride, believing they have the answers or that their culture holds superiority. In contrast, those in materially poor communities often struggle with inferiority. That combination can worsen the very sense of worthlessness we hope to alleviate.

Rather than reinforcing this brokenness, we should pursue humility and listen more than we speak. The goal should not be to "fix" but to restore—to foster healthy relationships that reflect the image of God in all people.

Short-term trips shouldn't be about what we accomplish but about who we become in relationship.

If poverty is rooted in broken relationships, then the solution is to restore people to right relationships. And that doesn’t come through handing out supplies or completing a checklist—it comes through deep, lasting community.

That’s why the local church is God’s primary instrument of restoration. Mission teams should support these churches in a “backstage” role—serving quietly, praying faithfully, and encouraging leaders who are already embedded in the community. Sometimes the best thing you can do is babysit the pastor’s children so he and his wife can enjoy a night out. That kind of support strengthens the long-term work far more than any single project ever could.

Many short-term trips blur the line between gospel and Western culture. But the gospel transcends culture—and so should we.

Colossians 1 reminds us that Christ is the Creator and Sustainer of all things. That means He is already at work in every community, regardless of how impoverished it may seem. When mission teams enter a new culture, they should approach it reverently, as if stepping onto holy ground. There is beauty in every culture, and highlighting it can be healing. Simply asking, “What’s good here?” affirms the image of God in others and begins the work of restoration.

How can the sending church help ensure long-term success in missions?

It’s not about executing a flawless trip. It's about fostering enduring partnerships with local ministries. That includes showing up year after year, offering consistent prayer and support, and being safe spaces where local leaders can be authentic. Success is not measured by how much we build but by how deeply we walk with others through life.

Short-term mission fundraising can also be reframed. Young people often feel pressure to produce tangible results in exchange for financial support. But if the goal is to learn and grow, that’s a worthy investment.

Go as a learner and communicate that clearly to your supporters. When trips are part of a larger discipleship journey, they become valuable not only for those being served but also for the transformation of those who participate.

Still, we must be wise stewards of God’s resources. Many trips could be more effective if better embedded in a long-term process of learning and partnership.

Short-term missions, when done right, can become powerful instruments of healing and restoration. But they must begin with a correct understanding of poverty and a humble willingness to be shaped by the journey.

For churches preparing for trips this summer, Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions is more than a resource—it’s a reorientation of purpose.

To explore Dr. Fikkert’s work or find resources and group studies designed for churches, visit Chalmers.org.

• I just bought a new SUV and was offered bi-weekly payments. Would it be advantageous to opt for this option over monthly payments to minimize interest?
• My mother passed away in October of last year, and my sister and I are going to sell her house probably next month. My question is, in Texas, there's no inheritance tax. But is there an inheritance tax federally?
• We have some friends who asked us to give them a letter of giftedness to help them buy a home. They're asking for $17,000, for which they have $17,000 in cash that they will exchange for our check immediately. We don't understand why they can't just use their own cash, and we're not sure if helping them would cause difficulties for us or them.

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine
• The Chalmers Center
• Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions by Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett with Katie Casselberry
• When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor... and Yourself by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert
• 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 my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." - Isaiah 55:8-9

You don’t have to study Scripture long to realize that God’s wisdom differs sharply from what the world considers wise. John Cortines joins us today to talk about the nature of wisdom, and spoiler alert— it’s a Person, not a thing.

John Cortines is the Director of Grantmaking at The Maclellan Foundation. He is the author of our new study on the book of Ecclesiastes, Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money, as well as the co-author of God and Money: How We Discovered True Riches at Harvard Business School and True Riches: What Jesus Really Said About Money and Your Heart.

In our modern world, we often equate wisdom with knowledge, education, and the ability to make good decisions. While these aspects are certainly part of it, Ecclesiastes teaches us that wisdom is far more than intellectual mastery or a collection of best practices. In fact, wisdom is not just a set of principles—it is a person. That person is Jesus Christ.

Throughout Ecclesiastes, the Preacher (likely King Solomon) wrestles with the big questions of life: What is our purpose? Where can we find joy? How should we handle money? The book explores the various paths people take—seeking pleasure, accumulation, and status—but ultimately concludes that all these pursuits are vanity, or "chasing after the wind."

The key takeaway? True wisdom is found in fearing God and keeping His commandments. But it's not merely about following rules—it’s about cultivating a relationship with God through Christ.

Ecclesiastes isn’t just a book about the limitations of human wisdom; it points us to the deeper truth that wisdom is found in a relationship with God. Near the end of Ecclesiastes, we read that "the words of the wise are like goads," and these words come from "one shepherd."

Interestingly, this shepherd's identity is made clear in the New Testament, where Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd in the Gospel of John. Not only does Jesus impart wisdom, but He is wisdom. In Colossians, we learn that Jesus is the one who orders and sustains all things—He embodies wisdom.

Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:30 that Jesus became "to us wisdom from God, righteousness, and sanctification." This concept shifts our understanding of wisdom from a set of teachings to a relationship with a person.

Ecclesiastes acknowledges the limits of human wisdom. Even Solomon, renowned for his wisdom, struggled to make sense of life’s paradoxes. He sought knowledge, but it never gave him lasting meaning. In fact, knowledge alone cannot answer the deeper questions of life, such as suffering, uncertainty, or death.

True wisdom isn't found in education or achievement; it's received from outside ourselves. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom," and in the knowledge of the Holy One, there is insight. True wisdom is about trusting in Christ, who alone leads us into all truth and understanding.

If wisdom is a person, the way to grow in wisdom is to walk closely with Jesus. John offers some practical ways to deepen our relationship with Christ and grow in wisdom:

1. Spend time in God’s Word: Not just for information but to encounter Christ and be transformed.
2. Pray and seek His guidance: God promises to give wisdom to those who ask for it.
3. Live in obedience: Wisdom isn't just knowing what is right; it's living it out.
4. Surround yourself with wise counsel: Engage with fellow believers who are also walking with Christ.
5. Trust God in times of uncertainty: Lean on Christ in suffering and hardship.
6. Develop a heart of gratitude: Recognize and enjoy the simple gifts God gives us each day.

These steps, though simple, shape our lives and our relationship with God. They allow us to grow in wisdom and understanding as we live in step with Christ.

One area where wisdom plays a critical role is in our financial lives. The way we handle money is closely tied to our spiritual journey, and the book of Ecclesiastes speaks directly to this. Money is often viewed in our culture as a means of fulfillment, but Ecclesiastes teaches us that wealth is a tool, not our source of meaning.

In Ecclesiastes 11, we are reminded of the importance of generosity: "Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days." Giving reflects God’s nature and His wisdom, and it produces Kingdom fruit. Generosity is a key part of living for Him.

Ecclesiastes teaches us to appreciate the simple gifts God provides, while also reminding us that money and possessions are fleeting. As we apply the wisdom of Christ to our finances, we see the balance between frugality, generosity, and enjoying the blessings God has given us.

At the heart of Ecclesiastes—and of all Scripture—is the call to fear God and keep His commandments. In the New Testament, we understand that this means following Jesus Christ, who is wisdom incarnate. Our pursuit of wisdom isn't about accumulating knowledge or living by a set of moral principles. It’s about knowing Jesus personally and living in relationship with Him.

If you're seeking wisdom, the answer is not found in more knowledge or better strategies—it’s found in Jesus Christ. As we follow Him, we grow in wisdom, and our understanding of life’s challenges—including money and possessions—becomes clearer. Wisdom is a person, and that person is Jesus.

For those interested in diving deeper into the book of Ecclesiastes, our new study, Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money, offers a comprehensive exploration of this biblical text and its profound teachings on money, work, and contentment. Visit FaithFi.com/shop to get your copy today or to place a bulk order.

• I have a son who has separated himself from our family. We haven't spoken in two and a half months. I want to know if there are any biblical references that would support changing my will to take my son out of it, given our current strained relationship.
• I made an insurance claim for a new roof, which was necessary. Now my insurance company has raised my rates, and my next payment is $163 higher than usual, which I can't afford this month. Do I have any recourse, and what should I do besides looking for another insurance company?

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine
• True Riches: What Jesus Really Said About Money and Your Heart by John Cortines and Gregory Baumer
• Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives by Ron Blue with Jeremy White
• 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.