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We live in a world where the price tags have been switched. The values of God are reduced, and the values of this Earth are inflated. Given a choice between wealth and wisdom, many would choose money. Dr. John echoes Solomon's teaching on the riches of wisdom. We are reminded that since we are not born wise, the first rule of wisdom is: get wisdom! No one who is willing to pay that price will lose.

Wisdom Matters: Is it better to be wealthy, good looking, successful, popular or wise? If any Christian isn't sure of the answer, then Proverbs has something to say! In this 10-message series, Dr. John will point us to wisdom that shapes our living. Proverbs doesn't guarantee us wealth or popularity, but it does promise the blessings of God. 

Cutting your budget doesn’t have to mean cutting joy out of your life. With a bit of creativity and intention, you can save money while still enjoying what truly matters. Here’s how to bring more purpose—and even fun—into your spending plan.

Before diving into practical steps, begin with prayer. Ask God to help you cultivate contentment, because wise spending starts with a heart that trusts Him. As Paul reminds us in 1 Timothy 6:6, “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” Budgeting isn’t just about numbers; it’s about aligning your heart with gratitude for what God has already provided.

Commit to eating what you already have in your fridge, freezer, and pantry for an entire month. You’ll reduce grocery spending and uncover forgotten items—maybe even a few surprises. Free apps like SuperCook or Cooklist can help you find creative recipes using your existing ingredients, turning the challenge into a fun family adventure.

Entertainment doesn’t have to be expensive. Set a monthly cap for fun activities and get the whole family involved in choosing them. One week could be a hike and picnic at the park; another, a cozy movie night at home with popcorn and dollar-store candy. This approach teaches that joy isn’t tied to a price tag.

Childcare can be costly, but community is a gift. Partner with another family you trust to take turns watching each other’s kids. One week, you get a date night, the next they do—and no one spends a dime. You’ll save money, build relationships, and create margin in your budget.

Pick one recurring expense and try handling it yourself for a season—such as washing the car, mowing the lawn, or grooming the dog. You may save more than you expect and even gain a new skill or appreciation for the task.

Choose one weekend a month to spend nothing beyond the essentials. Use the time to rest, reconnect, and enjoy free or low-cost activities, such as playing board games, going for a hike, or visiting the library. Turn it into a family challenge by deciding together how to use the extra savings for giving, saving, or a future treat.

When tempted by a big purchase—like a gadget or appliance—write it down with the date and wait 30 days. If you still want it and it fits the budget after a month, you can move forward with confidence. More often than not, the urge will pass, and you’ll keep your money where it belongs.

None of these ideas is earth-shattering—and that’s the beauty of them. Real transformation often comes from small, consistent decisions: choosing contentment over consumption, planning over impulse. Each intentional step strengthens your financial stewardship and, even more importantly, your trust in God.

When your kids see you making wise choices, they learn the importance of being a good steward. When your spouse feels included, it builds unity. And when you invite God into your day-to-day financial decisions—even the small ones—you’ll see His faithfulness in significant ways.

If you’re ready to take the next step in intentional budgeting, the FaithFi app is a great place to start. It helps you track spending, build margin, and grow in biblical wisdom—all in one place. Visit FaithFi.com and click “App” to get started.

With a little creativity and a lot of intentionality, you can cut costs without cutting out what matters most.

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If you want to experience deeper and more fulfilling love, and you want to simplify your life in the process, then join Chip as he wraps up this series by presenting 3 essential things you must do to love more and do less.

How do you sustain spiritual simplicity?

Get on board the Love Train! - The love train is the Church of Jesus Christ

What’s life like on the Love Train? -- 2 Corinthians 5:14-21

• Christ's love compels us (verse 14)
• Our life focus changes (verse 15)
• We get new eyes (verse 16)
• We get new hope (verse 17)
• We get a new responsibility (verses 18-19)
• We get a new role (verses 20-21)

How It Really Works

Jesus' Command: Love God and love people—the marks of a mature disciple.

The Profile of a Disciple (Romans 12 Christian): Surrendered, Separate from the world, Sober self-assessment, Serving in love, Supernaturally responding to evil

Practices to Become a Romans 12 Christian:

• BEFORE God (personal devotion)
• IN Community (fellowship and support)
• ON Mission 24/7 (living out faith daily)

The Process that Ignites Life Change:

• "I'm all in!" (Overcoming fear of the future)
• "You accepted me." (Overcoming fear of rejection)
• "God used me." (Overcoming fear of failure)

A Call to All: "Get on Board!" (James 1:19-27)

Broadcast Resource

• Spiritual Simplicity Resources
• Message Notes

Additional Resource Mentions

• Small Group Resources
• I Choose Joy Book
• I Choose Joy Small Group

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Today on Bold Steps with Pastor Mark Jobe, we’ll learn about becoming … Citizens—People of the Kingdom.As believers we have a dual citizenship. We live on Earth … but as a member of God’s Kingdom, we’re also citizens of Heaven! A lot of people don’t realize that there are characteristics that define who we are as part of that Kingdom. It’s not about politics, but the approach we take about ruling and governance. Join us as we get a better grasp on how to be People of the Kingdom.

Bold Step Gift:  Walk Like Jesus: Who He Calls Us To Be

Become a Bold Partner: https://www.moodyradio.org/donateto/boldsteps

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In some marriages, one of the spouses tends to be the disciplinarian while the other spouse is the "fun" parent. Learn how to balance that out in your marriage. That's all on the next edition of A Love Language Minute.

Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/lovelanguageminute

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At the GSA meetings, teachers and guest speakers encouraged discussion on gender identity to the point of handing out prizes for those who “came out” as gender confused. Constitutional expert, lawyer, author, pastor, and founder of Liberty Counsel Mat Staver discusses the important topics of the day with co-hosts and guests that impact life, liberty, and family. To stay informed and get involved, visit LC.org.

Do you ever wonder if marriage can be great—not for the rare few—but for you? Today’s episode answers that question with a resounding yes.

In her new book, Making Marriage Easier, Arlene Pellicane shares lots of funny (and painful) stories that we’ll talk about today. Like her mortifying story about electrolysis and how her wedding almost went off without her! She also gives practical wisdom like the four key decisions that make marriage easier and how to keep a marriage vibrant when you feel like roommates. Arlene was a delight to interview, and you’ll love her honest feedback when it comes to knowing how to make marriage easier.

Go to CarolRoper.org/podcast for the link to your free 50 date ideas

Watch on YouTube Christian Marriage Advice That Will Make You Laugh, Cry and Actually Use with Arlene Pellicane

Luke 18:31-33

Taking the twelve disciples aside, Jesus said, “Listen, we’re going up to Jerusalem, where all the predictions of the prophets concerning the Son of Man will come true. He will be handed over to the Romans, and he will be mocked, treated shamefully, and spit upon. They will flog him with a whip and kill him, but on the third day he will rise again.”

Question

Prayer