"Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gains understanding, for her profit is better than silver, and her gain surpasses gold." - Proverbs 3:13-14

Making wise financial decisions early in life can set the stage for long-term stability and generosity. But where should students and young professionals begin? Today, Bob Doll joins us to share practical financial advice to help young adults start their careers on the right foot.

Bob Doll is the CEO and CIO of Crossmark Global Investments. He regularly contributes to Faith and Finance and other media outlets, such as Bloomberg TV, Fox Business, and CNBC. 

Building a Life of Faithful Stewardship from the Start

Finances can feel overwhelming for students and young adults stepping into the world of work—budgets, debt, investing, generosity…where do you even begin? 

Yet these early years are some of the most formative when it comes to your long-term financial health and spiritual growth. That’s why it’s critical to lay a foundation not just of financial literacy but of biblical stewardship. Here are some timeless pieces of practical wisdom for young adults who want to honor God with their money from the beginning.

1. Begin With a Plan—And a Budget

Without a clear plan for spending, saving, and giving, it’s easy to drift into debt or financial anxiety. A solid budget helps you take control of your finances before they start controlling you.

And you don’t have to do it alone. Tools like the FaithFi app make creating an intentional, faith-filled budget easy. It's not just about numbers—it’s about aligning your finances with your values.

2. Save for Emergencies—And Stay Out of Debt

After budgeting, build an emergency fund with three to six months of expenses. Life is unpredictable, and this cushion can keep you from turning to debt when the unexpected hits.

Also, make sure to pay off your cards in full each month and chip away at any student loans as quickly as you can.

3. Learn from Others—and Find a Mentor

There’s no substitute for wise counsel. Watch those who are succeeding with money—and those who aren’t. Learn from both.

Having a mentor or a financial advisor who shares your values is essential. Surrounding yourself with godly counsel can help you avoid pitfalls like overspending or failing to save.

4. Give Generously—Even When It’s Hard

Start giving now. Like Randy Alcorn says, “God prospers us not to raise our standard of living, but our standard of giving.” Even when budgets are tight, generosity opens your heart and reminds you that God is the true provider.

5. Start Investing Early—and Consistently

Compound interest is a powerful force—either for or against you. The earlier you start investing, the more time your money has to grow. Even small, consistent contributions—what financial experts call “dollar-cost averaging”—can make a huge impact over time.

Start with low-cost index funds or retirement accounts like a Roth IRA. And don’t overlook your workplace benefits. If your employer offers a match, take it. That’s free money.

6. Align Your Investments with Your Faith

Today’s investors have more opportunities than ever to make faith-based investment choices. As the movement toward values-based investing grows, believers can increasingly steward their portfolios in ways that reflect biblical principles.

7. Embrace Rhythms and Celebrate Milestones

The journey to financial stability can feel long, especially when progress is slow. That’s why we suggest setting milestones and celebrating small wins. God wants us to enjoy things. We’re not meant to live like monks but are called to be wise.

These rhythms of budgeting, saving, investing, and giving aren’t just habits—they’re acts of worship.

8. Talk About Money—Especially in Marriage

Money fights are one of the top reasons for marital conflict. Get on your knees in prayer and ask the Lord to guide you both. Set goals as a couple and revisit them often.

Being on the same page financially brings unity and builds trust. It’s also a way of inviting God into your relationship in a very practical, day-to-day way.

9. Grow in Wisdom—And Keep Learning

Staying in God’s Word and learning from wise voices is crucial. Some books that we recommend to help you discern what the Bible really says about wealth and generosity are:

• Money, Possessions, and Eternity: A Comprehensive Guide to What the Bible Says about Financial Stewardship, Generosity, Materialism, Retirement, Financial Planning, Gambling, Debt, and More by Randy Alcorn
   
• The Treasure Principle: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving by Randy Alcorn

Start Strong

To the student, recent graduate, or young couple just starting out: the best time to build wise financial habits is now. Begin with a plan. Learn from mentors. Avoid debt. Save for emergencies. Give generously. Invest consistently. Talk honestly. And let Scripture shape how you think about money.

After all, financial wisdom isn’t just about building wealth—it’s about building a life that reflects the heart of God.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I'm 70 years old and have $112,000 in my checking account. I'm about to retire and unsure what to do with this money. Should I pay off my $110,000 mortgage or use the funds for home repairs and a new car?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine
• Crossmark Global Investments
• Money, Possessions, and Eternity: A Comprehensive Guide to What the Bible Says about Financial Stewardship, Generosity, Materialism, Retirement, Financial Planning, Gambling, Debt, and More by Randy Alcorn
• The Treasure Principle: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving by Randy Alcorn
• 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 every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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