Corrie ten Boom once said, “If the devil can’t make you sin, he’ll make you busy.”

That’s a sobering thought, especially in a world where many of us feel like life is moving faster than we can keep up. Deadlines, family responsibilities, bills, errands, emails, appointments, and unexpected needs can make every day feel like a sprint. And when life moves that fast, it’s easy to make financial decisions on the fly.

We don’t always neglect stewardship out of carelessness. Sometimes, we neglect it because we’re tired. We stop paying attention. We spend reactively instead of prayerfully. We put off conversations we need to have. We ignore creeping lifestyle inflation. We delay generosity until things “settle down.”

Before long, the pace of life begins shaping our financial decisions more than the wisdom of God does.

Busyness can be more spiritually dangerous than it first appears because it doesn’t always oppose faithfulness with rebellion. Sometimes it opposes faithfulness with distraction.

Jesus warned about this in Luke 8, when He described the seed that fell among the thorns. He said it was choked by “the cares and riches and pleasures of life” (Luke 8:14). In other words, ordinary life can become so crowded that it chokes out what truly matters.

We can spend hours worrying, scrolling, comparing, impulse buying, chasing the next opportunity, or reacting to every headline while neglecting the simple habits that build faithful stewardship: planning, giving, saving, communicating, and trusting God.

Jesus highlights a similar tension in Luke 10. Martha is working hard, serving diligently, and doing good things. But Mary is sitting at Jesus’ feet, listening. Jesus gently says, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary” (Luke 10:41–42).

Martha wasn’t doing something sinful. She was doing something useful. But even useful things can become disordered things when they crowd out what matters most. That applies to stewardship, too.

It’s possible to work hard, earn income, pay bills, and stay active, yet slowly lose sight of the heart of stewardship: trusting God, aligning our resources with His priorities, and handling money with wisdom and intentionality.

Stewardship is never just about transactions. It’s about worship.

Every dollar we earn, spend, save, or give becomes an opportunity to express what we believe about God. Do we trust Him? Do we believe He is our provider? Do we see money as ours to control—or His to manage?

That’s why financial faithfulness requires more than good intentions. It requires margin—not just margin in your bank account, but margin in your soul.

Dallas Willard once said, “Hurry is the great enemy of spiritual life in our day.” That certainly has implications for our finances as well. Hurry can lead to impulse spending, neglected planning, avoidable debt, forgotten generosity, and anxiety-driven decisions. When our lives are hurried, our money often becomes hurried, too.

So what does it look like to remain financially faithful in a busy season?

Proverbs 27:23 says, “Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds.”

In an agrarian society, a person’s wealth was often tied up in flocks and herds. To know their condition meant slowing down enough to count them, care for them, and manage them wisely.

Today, your “flock” may be your bank account, budget, bills, giving plan, savings, or debt. Awareness is often the first step toward wisdom. You can’t faithfully steward what you never stop to notice.

If generosity, saving, debt reduction, or wise planning matter to you, don’t leave them to chance.

Put them on the calendar. Automate what you can. Schedule the budget conversation. Decide in advance what you will give. Review your spending before the month gets away from you.

What gets scheduled often gets done. What gets ignored often drifts.

Faithful stewardship rarely happens by accident, especially in a busy season.

Sometimes the problem isn’t just a busy calendar. It’s an overcomplicated life. Too many commitments. Too many subscriptions. Too many obligations. Too many purchases to manage and maintain.

Simplicity can be an act of stewardship. It creates room to pay attention, to say yes wisely, to say no faithfully, and to focus your resources on what God has truly entrusted to you.

You may not have time today for a complete financial overhaul. But you may have time to review one statement, cancel one unnecessary expense, pray over one decision, or have one honest conversation.

Small acts of faithfulness matter. Over time, small decisions can reshape your habits, your household, and your heart. The goal isn’t to do everything at once. The goal is to take the next faithful step.

The goal of stewardship is not perfect financial performance. It’s faithfulness.

God is not asking you to control every outcome or master every detail. He is inviting you to trust Him, seek His wisdom, and handle what He has entrusted to you with care.

So in a busy season, don’t let hurry make your financial decisions for you. Slow down. Pay attention. Make room for what matters. And remember: faithful stewardship begins not with a frantic rush to do more, but with a quiet willingness to seek God first.

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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Summertime is here. And while kids may be counting down the days until school is out, parents and grandparents may be counting something else—the cost.

Keeping kids entertained during the summer does not have to break the bank. In fact, some of the best memories do not come from expensive outings. They come from creativity, time together, and a little planning.

It is tempting to spend our way into a good time. A movie with popcorn and drinks can easily become a costly outing for a family. A trip to a major league ballpark can cost even more. But meaningful family fun does not have to come with a high price tag.

Here are ten fun, meaningful, and free things your family can do this summer.

Today’s libraries are more than shelves of books. Many host summer reading challenges, puppet shows, craft days, Lego clubs, and other free activities for kids.

A trip to the library builds lifelong learning habits, encourages imagination, and gives children a healthy break from screen time. It is a simple summer win for the whole family.

Movie nights are always fun, but you can make them even more memorable with a theme. Dress up like your favorite characters, make homemade popcorn, and watch movies you already own or can stream for free through your library.

It is a cozy, low-cost way to enjoy time together without leaving home.

Many towns and cities host free summer concerts, outdoor movie nights, festivals, parades, and family events.

These gatherings are not only enjoyable; they also help families connect with their neighbors and experience the gift of community. Scripture often reminds us that we were not made to live in isolation, and summer can be a wonderful time to build those local connections.

You do not need a mountain getaway to go camping. Pitch a tent in the backyard, roast marshmallows, tell stories, and spend time under the stars.

You can also take a few moments to marvel at the night sky together. Psalm 8:3–4 says, “When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars… what is man that you are mindful of him?” A backyard campout can become a simple opportunity to worship the God who made the heavens and cares for us.

A yard sale can be more than a way to clean out the garage. Let your kids gather items, price them, and help run their own mini shop.

This can teach stewardship, contentment, and generosity—especially if they choose to give a portion of the proceeds to someone in need.

If your family enjoys a good treasure hunt, geocaching can be a fun adventure. All you need is a smartphone and a free app to begin searching for small caches hidden throughout your community.

It is a great way to explore new places, get outside, and bond as a family—without spending money.

Sometimes the simplest games are the most fun. Kickball, capture the flag, relay races, or a water balloon battle can bring kids and families together for hours.

Reach out to other parents in your neighborhood and organize a recurring game day. You can rotate houses, share the fun, and build community at no cost.

Get the kids involved and make a list of free or simple things they want to do this summer. It could include building a fort, catching fireflies, learning a new skill, having a picnic, or watching a sunset.

Then check the items off one by one. A summer bucket list builds anticipation, keeps the season organized, and helps your family make memories with intention.

Nature is one of God’s most accessible gifts. A walk through the woods, a bike ride, or a visit to a local preserve can stir the soul and open our eyes to the beauty of creation.

Psalm 19:1 says, “The heavens declare the glory of God.” And so does every bird's song, wildflower, trail, and sunset. Summer is a wonderful time to help children slow down and notice the world God has made.

One of the most meaningful things you can do this summer is serve others together.

You could volunteer at a food pantry, visit a nursing home, bake treats for neighbors, write encouraging cards, or help someone with yard work. Acts of service teach children the joy of giving and remind them that life is not just about being entertained.

Jesus said in Acts 20:35, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Serving together helps children experience that truth firsthand.

It is easy to assume that fun comes with a price tag. But often, the most meaningful moments cost nothing at all.

Laughter, love, sunshine, conversation, service, and time together are gifts from God. As you plan your summer, do not focus solely on how much you can spend. Focus on how you can wisely steward the time God has given you with the people you love.

And take it from a dad who knows how quickly the years pass: this season goes by faster than you think. Summer is a wonderful opportunity to invest relationally, be present, and build memories that do not require debt.

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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Over the past decade, U.S. stocks have been the center of the investing universe. And for good reason—the U.S. market remains one of the strongest and most influential in the world.

But wise investing is not simply about looking at where the market has been. It also means asking where opportunities may be emerging next. That raises an important question: Should investors consider looking beyond U.S. markets?

On today’s show, Mark Biller, Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, says the answer is worth careful consideration. While U.S. stocks remain important, global markets, currencies, and economic leadership are always changing. For investors seeking wise diversification, international investing may deserve a closer look.

Historically, one of the main reasons to own international stocks has been diversification. Decades ago, foreign markets often moved more independently from U.S. markets. When U.S. stocks struggle, international stocks might perform better, helping smooth out a portfolio's ups and downs.

That benefit has diminished somewhat as globalization has grown. Today, U.S. and foreign markets often move in the same general direction. But diversification is still not the only reason to consider investing abroad.

Another reason is opportunity. Many strong companies are based outside the United States. Investors who focus only on domestic markets may miss out on growth taking place in other parts of the world.

There is also a broader market-cycle consideration. U.S. and international stocks tend to trade leadership over long periods. One may outperform for a decade or more, and then the pattern can shift. After roughly 15 years of strong U.S. market leadership, foreign stocks may be positioned to become more competitive again.

The U.S. economy remains the largest and strongest in the world. America benefits from deep capital markets, natural resources, innovation, and relative political stability.

Still, Mark points out that U.S. financial assets have been “punching above their weight” for some time. U.S. stocks currently represent a much larger share of global stock markets than the U.S. represents of global economic output.

That does not mean U.S. stocks are destined to decline. But it does suggest that today’s level of dominance should not be assumed to last forever.

The global economy is shifting toward a more multipolar world, where economic leadership may be spread more broadly across regions. If foreign investors begin directing more capital toward their home markets, international stocks could benefit.

One of the most important distinctions investors should understand is the difference between global stock market share and global economic output.

According to Mark, U.S. stocks represent about 64% of the global equity market, while the U.S. share of global economic production is closer to 15%. That is a significant gap.

There is no rule that a nation’s stock market share must match its share of global economic activity. But those numbers have shifted over time, and there is no guarantee that the current U.S. share of global markets will remain this high indefinitely.

For investors, this means it may be wise to pay attention to where economic growth is happening outside the United States—especially in emerging markets.

Emerging markets can offer significant long-term growth potential. These countries often have growing populations, rising standards of living, and expanding economies.

But that potential comes with higher volatility.

Capital can move quickly in and out of emerging markets, creating larger swings in performance. Investors should understand that while the long-term growth story may be compelling, the risks are also greater.

For that reason, emerging markets should generally be approached thoughtfully, as one part of a diversified strategy—not as a speculative bet.

Currency also plays an important role in international investing.

Most Americans earn and spend in dollars, so they may not think much about exchange rates unless they travel internationally or buy foreign goods. But for investors, currency movements can have a meaningful impact.

When a U.S. investor buys foreign stocks, returns are influenced by two factors: the performance of the foreign market and the movement of that country’s currency against the U.S. dollar.

If the foreign currency strengthens against the dollar, it can enhance returns for a U.S. investor. If it weakens, it can reduce returns.

That means international investing is not just about foreign companies—it also involves exposure to global currencies.

For most investors, mutual funds and exchange-traded funds are the simplest ways to add international exposure. These vehicles provide diversification across many companies and markets.

There are several categories to understand.

World funds can invest anywhere around the globe, including the United States. Investors should examine them carefully because some may still hold a large percentage of U.S. stocks.

Foreign funds focus primarily on companies outside the United States. These offer more direct international exposure.

Regional and country-specific funds focus on specific regions of the world. These may offer targeted exposure but usually come with greater risk. Emerging market funds focus on developing economies with higher growth potential and higher volatility.

Each type of fund carries different levels of diversification and risk, so investors should consider how each fits within their broader financial plan.

China presents a complicated picture for investors.

The country has experienced tremendous economic growth, but its stock market has not always reflected that growth as investors might expect. Government involvement, market controls, and geopolitical concerns also create additional risks.

Because of those factors, some investors choose to limit or avoid exposure to China while still investing in other emerging markets. Mark notes that Sound Mind Investing takes this approach by using emerging-market strategies that exclude China.

There is no single percentage that fits every investor. The right amount depends on goals, risk tolerance, time horizon, and the rest of the portfolio.

Still, Mark suggests that many U.S. investors may be underexposed to international markets. As a general starting point, many diversified strategies might allocate roughly 15% to 25% of the stock portion of a portfolio to international assets, with flexibility to adjust based on market conditions.

The key is not to chase trends or overreact to recent performance. It is to build a thoughtful, diversified portfolio that recognizes both the strength of U.S. markets and the opportunities developing around the world.

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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What are the biggest financial questions people keep asking—and are we answering them the right way?

The questions we wrestle with about money often reveal something deeper. They expose our fears, our hopes, and what we truly believe about God’s provision. That’s why financial wisdom must go beyond spreadsheets and strategies. It must address the heart.

Sharon Epps, president of Kingdom Advisors, joins us to unpack what financial advisors across the country are hearing from their clients. While the seasons of life may vary, many of the same questions keep surfacing—and those questions often reveal concerns that go deeper than dollars and cents.

As Kingdom Advisors stays connected with financial professionals across the country, certain questions continue to surface. According to Sharon, three of the most common are:

Each question involves real financial decisions, but each one also reveals something about the heart. They are not merely questions about money. They are questions about security, legacy, generosity, and trust.

At first glance, “How much is enough?” sounds like a numbers question. People want to know how much they should save, how much they need for retirement, or how much margin they need to feel secure.

But beneath the question is often a deeper concern: Will I be okay? Will my family be okay?

That’s why a purely financial answer can fall short. A typical financial plan may focus mainly on accumulation—building as much as possible to create a sense of safety. Saving wisely is important, but from a biblical perspective, accumulation alone cannot provide lasting peace.

A stewardship approach asks a different question. It still considers the numbers, but it also recognizes that God is our provider. Enough is not merely a financial target. It is also a posture of the heart shaped by contentment, trust, and faithfulness.

Another question many people ask is, “How do I prepare the next steward?”

This often becomes urgent as people approach retirement or begin thinking about estate planning. But Sharon points out that preparing the next steward should not be delayed until later in life. It is something we should consider throughout our lifetime.

That’s because stewardship is not only about passing on wealth. It is about passing on wisdom, values, and a vision for faithfulness.

Proverbs 13:22 says, “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.” While that certainly can include financial inheritance, it should not be limited to money. A truly meaningful inheritance includes biblical wisdom, godly character, and a clear understanding of how to steward resources.

As Ron Blue has often said, estate planning is incomplete if it only focuses on wealth transfer. The greater goal is the transfer of wisdom before wealth.

The third question Sharon says advisors frequently hear is, “How do I give intentionally?”

This question moves generosity beyond impulse or obligation. It invites us to think carefully about how God may be calling us to use what He has entrusted to us for His Kingdom.

Intentional giving requires prayer, planning, and a willingness to align our resources with our deepest convictions. It asks not simply, “How much can I give?” but “How can my giving reflect God’s generosity and advance His purposes?”

These recurring questions helped inspire FaithFi’s new Field Guides—practical resources designed to help people work through major financial questions with both technical clarity and biblical wisdom.

The first Field Guide, How Much Money Is Enough?, helps readers think carefully about contentment, provision, and defining “enough” through a biblical lens.

Because the questions we ask about money often point to deeper matters of the heart, we need more than financial information. We need wisdom rooted in God’s Word.

To receive a copy of the first FaithFi Field Guide, How Much Money Is Enough?, become a FaithFi Partner by supporting the ministry at $35 a month or $400 a year. Learn more at FaithFi.com/Give.

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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Retirement is often described as the finish line—the long-awaited season when work finally ends, and leisure begins. But what if that picture is incomplete?

For believers, retirement does not mean purpose expires. It may simply mean that purpose takes on a new expression. We were created by God not merely to earn a paycheck, but to serve, contribute, create, encourage, and reflect His character in the world. That calling does not end when a career does.

Mitch Anthony, bestselling author of The New Retirementality: Planning Your Life and Living Your Dreams…at Any Age You Want, has spent decades helping people rethink retirement. He joins the show today to share a simple but deeply important message: retirement should not be the end of meaningful work. It should be a new season of purposeful living.

One of the most powerful ways to rethink retirement begins with a biblical understanding of work itself. In Hebrew, the word avodah conveys both work and worship. That connection reminds us that work was never meant to be separate from our calling before God.

Work, at its best, is not merely labor. It is an opportunity to bring value to others and meaning to our own lives. That may happen through a career, but also through volunteering, mentoring, serving in the church, caring for family, teaching, consulting, creating, or encouraging others.

Mitch defines work as “an engagement that brings value to others and meaning to you.” That broader definition helps us see that meaningful work is not limited to employment. It includes any faithful contribution that blesses others and reflects the gifts God has given us.

Our culture often treats retirement as though people reach a certain age and are no longer needed. But that idea does not reflect biblical wisdom.

Human beings are not products with expiration dates. We are image-bearers of God, created with gifts, experience, wisdom, and calling. While the pace or form of our work may change with age, our purpose does not disappear.

That does not mean everyone should work a traditional job until the end of life. Rest matters. Enjoyment matters. Slowing down may be wise and necessary. But the question is not simply, “When can I stop working?” A better question is, “How can I continue bringing value to others in this season of life?”

Many people imagine retirement as a permanent vacation. After decades of work, they look forward to golf, travel, hobbies, and relaxation. Those can all be good gifts from God. But leisure alone cannot carry the weight of a meaningful life.

Mitch points out that there are diminishing returns to leisure. When recreation becomes the whole purpose of life, it often loses its joy. What once felt refreshing can begin to feel repetitive.

The goal is not to choose between vacation and vocation. The goal is a healthy rhythm of both. Rest gives energy to our calling, and meaningful contribution makes rest more enjoyable.

Most retirement planning focuses on money: savings, income, investments, Social Security, taxes, and health care costs. Those are important. But they are not the whole story.

Retirement also brings significant non-financial challenges. People may struggle with identity, routine, mental engagement, relationships, and a sense of usefulness. For someone who has spent decades in a profession, stepping away can raise painful questions: Who am I now? What do I do with my time? Where am I needed?

Mitch also notes that intellectual challenge matters. When people stop engaging their minds, solving problems, learning, and contributing, they may begin to feel themselves slowing down. Staying mentally and relationally engaged is an important part of a healthy retirement.

For Christians, the conversation about retirement must include Ephesians 2:10, which says, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”

There is no retirement clause in that verse.

God created His people for good works—not as a way to earn salvation, but as the fruit of His grace in our lives. Those good works may look different in each season, but they remain part of our calling.

Retirement may change your schedule, income, title, or responsibilities. But it does not change the truth that you belong to Christ and have been gifted to serve others.

For those entering retirement or already in it, the key is to ask better questions.

Those questions can open the door to mentoring younger professionals, serving in ministry, helping nonprofits, teaching a class, encouraging families, offering practical wisdom, or simply being more present to people who need care.

Purpose in retirement does not have to be grand or public. Faithfulness often looks ordinary. But ordinary service, offered to God, can be deeply meaningful.

Retirement is not the end of usefulness. It is not a retreat from calling. And it is not merely a reward for decades of labor.

For the follower of Christ, retirement can be a season of renewed purpose—a time to live with wisdom, generosity, rest, and meaningful contribution.

The goal is not simply to have enough money to stop working. The goal is to steward the life God has given you for His glory and the good of others.

Your career may end. Your title may change. Your pace may slow. But your purpose in Christ remains.

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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An emergency fund can be the difference between a financial setback and a financial crisis—but only if it’s built the right way.

Most people know they should have money set aside for emergencies. But many aren’t sure how much to save, what actually counts as an emergency, or where to keep that money. Those are important questions, because an emergency fund is not just another savings goal. It is a key part of wise financial stewardship.

An emergency fund is money set aside for unexpected, significant financial disruptions.

Those two words matter: unexpected and significant.

This is not money for routine expenses, planned purchases, or occasional wants. It is reserved for the kinds of situations that can suddenly shake your financial life—job loss, a major medical need, a significant car repair, an urgent home repair, or another event that interrupts your income or requires a large amount of cash.

In that sense, an emergency fund acts like a financial shock absorber. When something unexpected happens, it helps keep a difficult situation from turning into debt, panic, or financial chaos.

Without an emergency fund, many people are forced to rely on credit cards or loans during hard times. But with one in place, you create stability and breathing room when uncertainty comes.

A helpful rule of thumb is to keep three to six months of living expenses in your emergency fund.

That means enough to cover essential expenses such as housing, food, utilities, insurance, transportation, and other necessary costs.

For example, if your household needs $5,000 per month to cover basic expenses, a fully funded emergency fund would typically range from $15,000 to $30,000.

Where you land in that range depends on your situation. If your income is stable and predictable, three months may be enough. But if your income fluctuates, if you’re self-employed, or if you simply want additional peace of mind, six months—or even a little more—may be appropriate.

The goal is not perfection. The goal is preparedness.

Some Christians may wonder whether saving for emergencies reflects a lack of trust in God. But Scripture encourages wise preparation.

Proverbs 6:6–8 says, “Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.”

The ant is not anxiously trying to control the future. It is wisely preparing for what may come.

That is the posture we want to take with our finances. An emergency fund is not about pretending we can control tomorrow. It is about stewarding today’s resources wisely so that when tomorrow brings challenges, we are not forced into panic or unnecessary debt.

Planning and trusting God are not opposites. In many cases, wise planning is an expression of faithful stewardship.

Once you decide how much to save, the next question is where to keep it.

This is where many people get tripped up. While an emergency fund should grow over time, it is not meant to be invested like a retirement account.

Why? Because investments such as stocks and mutual funds fluctuate. If the market drops at the exact moment you need the money, your safety net may suddenly be smaller than you expected.

Likewise, locking emergency funds in a certificate of deposit can limit your access. If you need to withdraw early, you may face penalties or lose interest.

An emergency fund has two primary goals: safety and accessibility. You want the money protected and accessible quickly when a real need arises.

That’s why many financial advisors recommend keeping emergency funds in accounts such as high-yield savings accounts or money market accounts. These allow your money to earn a competitive rate while remaining liquid and accessible. They are also typically insured, helping protect your savings while they earn a modest return without taking unnecessary risk.

This is where our friends at Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU) come in. They recently merged with AdelFi to form AdelFi Christian Banking, creating even more opportunities for believers to align their banking with their faith.

Right now, AdelFi offers a high-yield money market account that may be a good fit for an emergency fund. With this account, you can earn around 4% on balances up to $100,000, giving you both strong returns and the liquidity you need if an emergency arises.

And when you bank with AdelFi, your deposits help fund ministry initiatives and Kingdom work around the world.

For FaithFi listeners, there is also a special offer. When you open an account and use the code FAITHFI, you can receive up to a $400 bonus.

To learn more, visit FaithFi.com/Banking.

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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Summer is not that far off, and for many families, the kids are already dreaming about vacation. But parents may be asking a different question: How can we make great family memories without breaking the budget?

A family vacation can be a wonderful gift, but it doesn’t have to create financial pressure that follows you home. With a little planning, creativity, and communication, you can enjoy meaningful time together while staying within your means.

Crystal Paine, creator of MoneySavingMom.com, joined us on today’s show to share practical ways families can plan a memorable, budget-friendly vacation.

The first step is to plan ahead. The earlier you begin, the more options you’ll have for lodging, travel, and activities.

Crystal recommends considering destinations that are a little off the beaten path. These places often have fewer crowds and lower prices while still offering plenty of opportunities for rest and fun. If you’re flying, she suggests using Google Flights to search flexible destinations. You can enter your travel dates and explore lower-cost flight options across the country.

Just as important, set a clear budget for the entire trip before you go. Decide what matters most to your family. Maybe staying near the beach is a priority, but eating out every meal is not. Knowing those priorities ahead of time helps you spend intentionally rather than react in the moment.

Some of the best vacation memories don’t cost anything.

Crystal encourages families to search for free things to do in their destination. Try looking up phrases like “best free things to do” along with the name of the city or area you’ll be visiting. You may find hiking trails, local parks, self-guided walking tours, free museums, art exhibits, festivals, or concerts.

These activities are often overlooked, but they can become the hidden gems of a trip. And they remind us that meaningful experiences don’t always require a high price tag.

A vacation is more enjoyable when everyone feels included.

Ask your children what they would enjoy doing. You may not be able to do everything, but letting each person choose one activity can help the trip reflect the whole family’s interests.

Crystal also suggests giving each family member a set budget and allowing them to plan a few hours of the vacation within that amount. This can be a fun way to teach kids practical money skills. They learn how much things cost, how to make tradeoffs, and how to enjoy the responsibility of planning.

Food can quickly become one of the most expensive parts of a trip, especially if you eat out for every meal.

One way to save is to stay somewhere that offers free breakfast. Then, bring snacks or simple meal items from home. If you’re flying and can’t pack much food, visit a grocery store when you arrive. A loaf of bread, peanut butter and jelly, fruit, carrots, chips, or sandwich supplies can cost far less than several restaurant meals.

That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a special meal out. Part of a vacation can be the fun of eating at a memorable place. The key is to be strategic. Choose the meals you want to splurge on, and save on the rest.

Before the trip begins, decide how much you can spend each day. Then, make it a family challenge to stay under that amount.

This can turn budgeting into a game rather than a burden. It helps children think carefully about purchases and gives everyone a shared goal. Instead of saying yes to everything in the moment, your family can work together to decide what is truly worth the cost.

The best vacation is not the one with the biggest price tag. It’s the one that gives your family time together, creates lasting memories, and allows you to come home without financial regret.

A budget-friendly vacation doesn’t mean settling for less. It means choosing what matters most, planning wisely, and remembering that joy is not found in how much we spend, but in the people we share life with.

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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What do you do when the cost of staying healthy begins to strain the family budget?

For many households, health care has become one of the biggest financial pressures they face. Groceries, utilities, and everyday expenses are already stretching families thin. But medical costs often feel like they are in a category of their own.

Even when traditional coverage feels out of reach, families are not without options. That’s why Lauren Gajdek, Senior Director of External Affairs at Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), joined the show today to discuss medical cost sharing, how it works, and why more families are taking a closer look.

Many families are still dealing with the effects of higher prices across the board. While inflation may have cooled in some areas, that does not mean prices have returned to their previous levels. Groceries, utilities, housing, and other essentials still cost more than they did before, leaving many households with less room in their monthly budgets.

Health care adds another layer of pressure. Employer-sponsored family health insurance can now cost thousands of dollars each year when accounting for both employer and employee contributions. Marketplace plans can also be expensive, especially for those who do not qualify for subsidies. Behind those rising premiums are the increasing costs of hospitals, medications, and other medical services.

For families trying to manage their resources wisely, those numbers can feel overwhelming.

When traditional health insurance becomes too expensive, families may begin looking for alternatives.

One option is COBRA, which allows someone who has lost employer-sponsored coverage to keep the same plan for a time. But COBRA is often very expensive because the individual is typically responsible for the full cost of the plan without employer assistance.

Another option is the health insurance marketplace at Healthcare.gov. For those who qualify for subsidies, this may provide some relief. But without subsidies, marketplace plans may still be difficult to afford.

A third option is medical cost-sharing through an organization such as Christian Healthcare Ministries. CHM is not insurance. Instead, it is a community of believers who voluntarily come together to help share one another’s eligible medical expenses.

Most people are familiar with the traditional insurance model: premiums, deductibles, provider networks, and claims. Medical cost sharing operates differently.

With Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), members receive medical care from their provider and then work with that provider to receive the bill directly. The member submits the bill to CHM, and eligible medical costs are shared or reimbursed in accordance with the program guidelines.

CHM describes this as “assurance” rather than insurance. Members are supported not only financially but also spiritually by a community of believers committed to helping one another.

Christian Healthcare Ministries has been serving members for more than 40 years and has shared more than $13 billion in medical costs.

CHM offers several programs designed to fit different household needs and budgets.

Their Gold program is $299 per unit per month. Silver is $169 per unit per month, Bronze is $115 per unit per month, and CHM also offers a senior program for $119 per unit per month.

Costs are based on household size and the number of participating members. Dependent children can participate as one unit, and no family pays for more than three units.

For some families, that structure may provide a more affordable way to manage health care costs while staying aligned with their values.

Health care decisions are both practical and personal. Families need to consider costs, coverage needs, medical history, risk tolerance, and how each option fits their overall financial plan.

For those seeking an alternative to traditional insurance, medical cost sharing may be worth exploring. It offers believers a way to come together in community, helping one another carry the burden of medical expenses.

Christian Healthcare Ministries is a longtime underwriter of Faith & Finance, and many listeners—as well as some members of the FaithFi team—have used CHM for years.

To learn more, visit CHMinistries.org/FaithFi.

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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A growing number of Christians are asking not just how to invest, but whether their investments reflect what they believe.

For many believers, investing has often been treated as a purely financial activity—something focused on returns, risk, diversification, and retirement goals. But what if investing is also deeply connected to our faith and calling?

Luke Bolton, Executive for Strategic Relationships at Kingdom Advisors and co-author of the upcoming book, The Theology of Investing: A Biblical Perspective for Contemporary Investors, joins us on the show today to say that this is ultimately about more than financial strategy. It is about theology—what we believe about God, money, stewardship, and the world He created.

Most Christians encounter investing at some point, whether through a workplace retirement plan, an IRA, a brokerage account, or a conversation with a financial advisor. But many have never paused to ask a deeper question: What does my faith have to say about this?

For Bolton, the answer begins with the lordship of Christ. If we confess that Jesus is Lord, then He is Lord over everything—including our money, savings, and investments.

Colossians 3:17 says, “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus.” That “everything” includes how we invest.

This does not mean every Christian will make the exact same investing decisions. But it does mean investing should not be placed in a separate category outside discipleship. Our portfolios, like every other part of life, should be brought under the wisdom and purposes of God.

A biblical approach to investing starts with what is happening internally.

Are we trusting God, or are we trusting the markets? Are we investing out of wisdom and stewardship, or anxiety and fear? Are we content and grateful, or driven by comparison and accumulation?

Those heart-level questions matter because financial decisions are never purely financial. They reveal what we value, what we fear, and where we place our hope.

Scripture repeatedly reminds us not to put our ultimate confidence in wealth, which is uncertain, but in God, who richly provides. That perspective changes the way we think about return, risk, security, and purpose.

Faith-based investing is not only about the heart, though. It also shapes outward decisions.

Bolton explained that over the last 20 to 30 years, a growing number of Christians have begun taking meaningful action through their investments in three key ways.

Some seek to avoid investments that conflict with their faith. Others look for opportunities to use their influence as investors for good. Still others seek investments that actively align with God’s heart for human flourishing and the good of His world.

In other words, faith-based investing can move beyond simply asking, “What should I avoid?” It can also ask, “What good can my investments help accomplish?”

Jeremiah 29:7 says, “Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you…for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” Galatians 6:10 adds, “As we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.”

Those passages help frame investing as an opportunity. Capital can be deployed in ways that contribute to human flourishing, support productive work, and reflect God’s concern for the world He made.

That does not remove the need for careful financial analysis. Investors still need wisdom, diversification, and sound counsel. But it does add another layer of due diligence: How might this investment reflect God’s character, purposes, and mission?

For someone who wants to move in this direction, Bolton suggested a few simple first steps.

Start by learning more about investing from a biblical worldview. Then take time to understand what you already own. Many investors do not know which companies or funds are represented in their portfolios.

From there, seek wise counsel. This is not a conversation to navigate alone or simply by searching online. Proverbs reminds us that wisdom is often found in the presence of many counselors.

A practical next step may be as simple as asking your advisor, “How might I better align my investments with my values?”

Bolton noted that many advisors are waiting for clients to raise the question. In many cases, values-aligned investing conversations begin when investors ask.

The field of faith-based investing continues to grow. More investment solutions are becoming available for retirement plans, IRAs, Roth IRAs, and brokerage accounts. That growth is encouraging because it gives Christian investors more opportunity to connect their financial decisions with their convictions.

But the goal is not merely to find a “Christian” version of investing. The deeper goal is faithful stewardship.

Investing is not only about increasing wealth. It is about managing what God has entrusted to us in a way that reflects His character and purposes.

At the end of the day, our portfolios are more than accounts. They are opportunities.

They give us a chance to ask whether our financial decisions are shaped by faith, wisdom, and love of neighbor. They invite us to consider how our resources can participate in God’s work in the world.

If you want help aligning your investments with your faith and values, you can connect with a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®) at FindaCKA.com. 

When searching, you can indicate that you are looking for an advisor who specializes in faith-based investing.

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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What if investing could be about more than performance? What if it could also be about purpose?

For many believers, stewardship does not stop with earning, giving, saving, or spending. It also includes asking whether the companies we invest in reflect the values we profess. And as more Christians think carefully about their portfolios, faith-based investing tools are making that conversation more practical than ever.

Mike Schnackenberg, Head of Distribution at Eventide Asset Management, joins the show today to discuss the rise of faith-based ETFs and how investors can align their portfolios with their convictions while honoring God and serving the common good.

ETF stands for exchange-traded fund. Simply put, an ETF is an investment vehicle that can hold multiple stocks or bonds under one ticker symbol.

That gives investors a convenient way to diversify. Instead of purchasing shares of dozens—or even hundreds—of individual companies, an investor can gain exposure to many holdings through a single investment.

ETFs also trade on exchanges like stocks, which means they can be bought and sold throughout the trading day. Many also provide transparency, giving investors visibility into the companies or holdings inside the fund.

For years, many people associated ETFs mainly with passive investing—funds that simply track a broad market index. But that has been changing. More active strategies are now being offered through ETFs as well, partly because of the accessibility, transparency, and tax efficiency the structure can provide.

One of the most important questions for Christian investors is whether passive investing is truly neutral.

At first glance, it may seem that way. If an investor is simply tracking an index, it can feel like they are not making an active ethical choice. But from a biblical stewardship perspective, every investment decision carries moral weight because investing involves ownership.

Even if someone owns only a small percentage of a large company, that investor still has a connection to the company’s products, practices, profits, and impact. If we benefit from a company’s success, then it is worth asking whether that success comes through work that contributes to human flourishing—or work that harms our neighbors.

That is why faith-based investing begins with a deeper question: What kind of impact do I want my investments to have?

For believers, stewardship is not limited to giving, budgeting, or avoiding debt. It also includes investing.

If God owns everything, then the money we invest is also entrusted to us by Him. That means our portfolios should not be disconnected from our discipleship.

A broad market index may include companies involved in industries or practices many Christians would find troubling—areas connected to addiction, exploitation, the destruction of life, or other harms to human flourishing. Faith-based investing seeks to avoid those problematic areas while also identifying companies whose products and practices serve people well.

The goal is not merely to avoid what is harmful. It is also to pursue what is good.

One of the biggest challenges is that many Christians simply do not know that faith-based investing options are available.

They may assume their only choices are traditional index funds, mutual funds, or ETFs that make no distinction between companies based on values or business practices. But the faith-based investing space has grown, giving investors more opportunities to pursue financial goals while also seeking values alignment.

For many believers, the first step is simply awareness: learning what they currently own and understanding what companies or industries may already be represented in their portfolio.

That discovery process can be eye-opening. Many investors find that familiar funds or indexes include exposure to businesses they would not knowingly support.

Those who want their investments to align more closely with their convictions should begin by examining what their current investments contain.

Some screening tools allow investors or advisors to enter a ticker symbol and review exposure to areas many Christians consider problematic, such as alcohol, tobacco, gambling, pornography, and abortion-related businesses. Some faith-based investment firms screen across many additional ethical categories.

This kind of review is not meant to stir up guilt. It is meant to bring clarity.

Once investors understand what they own, they can make more intentional decisions about where their money is invested and which kinds of companies they want to support.

Eventide Asset Management has long focused on values-based investing. Its tagline is “Investing that makes the world rejoice,” a phrase that reflects its desire to identify companies that contribute to human flourishing while avoiding businesses involved in harmful practices.

Eventide has now brought that approach into the ETF space. Its ETF lineup includes both an actively managed high-dividend strategy and several systematic ETFs designed to provide investors with broad market exposure while applying value-based screens.

The aim is to offer investors something similar to the look and feel of traditional market exposure, while avoiding companies involved in practices that conflict with a biblical worldview and leaning toward businesses that create real value for people and communities.

Faith-based investing is not only about what investors avoid. It is also about what they support.

At their best, businesses can serve customers, create meaningful work, solve real problems, develop helpful products, and strengthen communities. Investing can be one way of participating in that good work.

That is why this conversation is about more than portfolio construction. It is about asking whether the resources God has entrusted to us are being used in ways that reflect His purposes.

Christian investors do not have to choose between thoughtful financial stewardship and faithfulness. The goal is to pursue wise investing while also asking how our investments can honor God and love our neighbors.

The potential impact is significant.

A large amount of public equity assets is held by church-attending Christians, yet only a small portion of those assets is currently invested in explicitly faith-aligned ways. If more believers began viewing their investments as part of their stewardship, capital could be directed away from destructive industries and toward companies creating meaningful value in the world.

Now more than ever, Christians have an opportunity to align the resources God has entrusted to them with the values they profess.

Investing is not just about growing wealth. It is about stewardship. It is about ownership. And for the believer, it is one more area of life where faith should shape financial decisions.

To learn more about faith-based investing options from Eventide, visit EventideInvestments.com. You can also explore additional resources at GoodInvestor.com.

Mike Schnackenberg is the Head of Distribution at Eventide Asset Management, LLC. Views expressed in this podcast are intended for information purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Eventide does not provide tax, accounting, or legal advice. Eventide's values-based approach to investing may not produce desired results and could result in underperformance compared with other investments. There is no guarantee that any investment will achieve its objectives, generate positive returns, or avoid losses.

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.