What This Episode Is About

Dr. Van Moody and Pastor George explore the rich tradition of Black wealth-building and how to honor that legacy through biblical stewardship. They share five practical steps to create a God-honoring legacy that goes beyond money.

Key Scriptures: Luke 12:48 | Deuteronomy 8:18 | Matthew 25:14 | Proverbs 13:22

Five Steps to Building a God-Honoring Legacy

1. Define Legacy Beyond Money

Pass down three things: Faith, Wisdom, and Finances. The average inheritance lasts less than 11 months when you only pass money. Knowledge is more valuable than money alone.

Key idea: "My ceiling should be the floor for my kids"

2. Tell the Story, Then Build the Strategy

Share your family's financial journey with the next generation. Teach through real-life examples and stories. Don't just hand over money—teach the "how" and "why."

3. Move from Income to Assets

Shift from earning money to owning things that generate income. Build multiple streams of revenue. Teach your children the difference between working for money and money working for you.

4. Put Your Stewardship in Writing

Document your financial plans and goals. Involve family in planning sessions. Show both the plan AND the execution—let kids see bills being paid, maintenance handled, and decisions made.

Example: Use vacation planning as a teaching moment about budgeting and priorities.

5. Tie Wealth to Mission, Not Ego

Connect wealth-building to kingdom purpose. Love people and use money—don't use people and love money. Make room for giving and community impact.

Remember: You're blessed to be a blessing.

Connect with the Hosts

Pastor George B. Thompson: georgebthompson.com

Dr. Van Moody: vanmoody.org

Welcome to the January 2026 edition of The Freedom Podcast! Join Dr. Van Moody and Pastor George B. Thompson as they kick off the new year with powerful insights on aligning your finances with God's purpose for your life.

Episode Highlights

In this episode, Dr. Moody and Pastor George discuss why your financial goals should be more than just numbers—they should be connected to God's assignment for your life in 2026. Drawing from Proverbs 16:3, they explore how to commit your plans to the Lord and allow Him to establish your path.

The 5 Steps to Setting God-Honoring Financial Goals:

Start with Prayer, Not a Calculator - Begin the year seeking God's wisdom and revelation about your finances, relationships, and purpose. Consider joining a 21-day fast to set the spiritual tone for your year.

Clarify Your Kingdom Assignment - Identify your roles this season (spouse, parent, business owner, ministry leader) and ensure your money aligns with how you serve. Remember: your priorities are revealed by your bank statement and your time.

Write Clear, Measurable Financial Goals - Set specific targets for debt reduction, savings, investments, and giving. As Habakkuk 2 reminds us, write the vision and make it plain. Include individual goals, marriage goals, and family goals.

Build a Budget That Matches Your Mission - Align your spending plan with your written goals. Count the cost before you build, just as Jesus taught. Your budget should reflect what matters most to you and your family.

Create a Rhythm of Review and Adjustment - Schedule monthly family financial check-ins to stay on course. Make adjustments early and often—small course corrections are easier than major overhauls.

Key Takeaways

Kitchen table conversations are essential for family financial success

Include children in age-appropriate financial discussions to prepare them for future decisions

Be flexible and make financial planning fun, not stressful

Remember that God gives us the ability to create wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18)

Monthly reviews help you make small adjustments before getting off track

Special Insights

Pastor George shares wisdom about "not running out of fuel upon descent"—planning ahead so you can finish strong in your financial journey. Dr. Moody provides a powerful real-life example of how his family navigated college decisions using transparent financial conversations.