When you board a plane, you trust the pilot to get you safely to your destination. Shouldn’t you be just as careful about who advises you on your financial future? Financial guidance isn’t just about numbers—it’s about trust, worldview, and values. The right advisor can help you make decisions that align with your faith and priorities.

Every advisor brings a worldview to the table. Too often, cultural definitions of success revolve around accumulation alone. But biblical stewardship points higher—toward faithfulness, contentment, and generosity. That’s why this choice is not only financial—it’s spiritual. You’re entrusting someone with influence over how you manage God’s money, and that requires discernment.

Clarify What You Need

Before beginning your search, determine what type of help you’re looking for. Do you need comprehensive planning—covering retirement, insurance, taxes, estate planning, and generosity—or just investment management? Do you want a one-time plan or an ongoing relationship? The clearer your goals, the easier it will be to evaluate fit.

One of the most important questions to ask is whether your advisor is a fiduciary, legally obligated to put your interests first. Compensation models vary:

• Commission-based advisors earn by selling products, which may create conflicts of interest.
• Fee-based advisors charge fees but may also receive commissions.
• Fee-only advisors are paid solely by clients, helping ensure objectivity.

No matter the model, insist on full transparency about fees and expenses.

Credentials and Character

Credentials demonstrate an advisor’s training and licensing, but character matters just as much. Evaluate potential advisors in three areas:

• Values – Do they share your biblical worldview?
• Competence – Do they have the training and experience to serve families like yours?
• Process – Can they explain how they build a financial plan and how they are compensated?

A Practical Process for Finding the Right Advisor

1. Build a shortlist – Ask trusted friends, family, or church leaders for recommendations. Explore advisors who share biblical values, like Certified Kingdom Advisors® at FindaCKA.com.
2. Do a background check – Verify licenses, review disclosure documents, and check for disciplinary history.
3. Interview at least three advisors – Treat this like a job interview. You’re hiring for a critical role.
4. Request a written scope and fee schedule – Get clarity in writing.
5. Pray and take your time – Don’t let anyone pressure you into quick decisions.

When meeting with potential advisors, ask:

• “How are you compensated? Please outline every fee and expense.”
• “What role does faith play in your financial advice, and how do you define success?”
• “What’s your process for creating a financial plan or investment strategy?”

Proverbs 11:14 reminds us: “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”

Red Flags and Green Lights

Be alert for warning signs such as:

• Promises of unrealistic performance
• Vague answers about fees
• Pressure to move assets quickly

Look instead for encouraging signs:

• Transparent communication
• A listening-first approach
• Advice that integrates faith and family priorities

The right advisor depends on your season of life. Young families may need guidance on budgeting, insurance, and college savings, while retirees often seek tax-efficient withdrawals, income strategies, and estate planning. Ask potential advisors about their typical clients to see if their expertise aligns with your needs.

Keeping Faith at the Center

A trusted advisor can help you avoid mistakes, manage taxes, stay disciplined during market swings, and design a generosity plan that reflects your calling. Most importantly, the right advisor will keep your focus on faithfulness, not just finances—helping you honor God with every decision.

If you’re ready to seek biblically wise financial advice, consider working with a Certified Kingdom Advisor®. CKAs meet rigorous standards of character, competence, and biblical training. You can start your search today at FindaCKA.com.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I’m considering a reverse mortgage. I have some credit card debt, a second mortgage, and I’d like to make home modifications for my husband, who is in a wheelchair. How exactly does a reverse mortgage work, and will it affect my credit?
• I’m a single mom with a limited income. What steps can I take to improve my credit score?
• We received a disaster loan from the Small Business Administration at 1.5% interest. My wife thinks we should invest the money instead of paying off the loan. What’s your advice?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• Understanding Reverse: Simplifying the Reverse Mortgage by Dan Hultquist
• AnnualCreditReport.com
• Christian Credit Counselors
• Movement Mortgage
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) 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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