Utah's Hope

For most of us, water is rarely something we think about. It’s as close as the kitchen sink, the refrigerator door, or the bottle beside us at work. But for millions of people around the world, clean water remains out of reach—and the consequences stretch far beyond thirst.

Jesus once said, “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones… that person will certainly not lose their reward” (Matthew 10:42). On today’s episode of Faith & Finance, Aaron Griggs of Cross International shows us just how literal—and transformative—that cup of water can be.

Globally, 2.2 billion people still lack access to safe drinking water. In places like Zambia, Malawi, and Uganda, the crisis is especially severe. Women and children often walk long distances every day to gather water from open pits shared with animals. The water is contaminated, illness is common, and the time lost reinforces generational poverty. Girls miss school, mothers miss work, and entire communities struggle to flourish.

This quarter, FaithFi is partnering with Cross International, a Christ-centered humanitarian ministry working alongside local churches and Christian leaders to meet urgent needs and create sustainable change. Their work in Sub-Saharan Africa is showing what can happen when clean water meets the living water of the gospel.

After a well is installed in a village, physical health improves quickly—but the long-term effects are even more remarkable. Hours once spent fetching water are freed for school, work, farming, and small business. Women gain economic opportunity. Children gain education. And through Cross International’s ministry partners, families are introduced to Jesus, often receiving their first Bibles in their own language.

One woman in Zambia described this transformation with simple gratitude:

“I never knew that I would be where I am now. My family is healthier, and my children are in school. God has blessed us.”

Another woman, Grace, shared how access to water restored not only her family but also her church. For years, her congregation met under a tree because there wasn’t enough water for construction. After a new well was installed, the church was rebuilt, children joined their parents in worship, and an entire community experienced renewed dignity and hope. Her favorite Scripture says it best:

“Whoever believes in me… rivers of living water will flow from within them.” — John 7:38

Cross International’s work meets physical needs, but always in the name of Christ. Water is a doorway—opening opportunities for flourishing today and pointing to eternal life in Him. That’s why FaithFi is partnering with Cross International this quarter to serve 250 children across Malawi, Zambia, and Uganda, providing not only clean water but also food, education, and the hope of the gospel.

For just $62, one child receives these essential resources for a year. Every gift supports not just a child, but often an entire family and community, moving them toward long-term stability and lasting hope.

Clean water changes everything—it restores dignity, strengthens families, and reflects the life-giving love of Christ.

To learn more or to join us in this effort, visit: FaithFi.com/Cross.

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Self-esteem is important. But fixating too much on how your kids feel about themselves is not good for their development. Danny and John share why we need to focus on teaching resilience more than self-esteem. Also, Jim Daly and Jill Garner discuss why healthy self-esteem comes when kids realize life is not all about them.

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Would you walk all the way to work because you forgot to get in your car? Would you stand over a tub doing laundry like it’s 1910 when the washing machine is sitting right there? When power tools are available, we use them. Well today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out that the Lord has made spiritual gifts available to each of us – the power tools, as it were, of serving the Kingdom. And today we’ll see just how important it is that we use them.

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Parenting has a sneaky way of poking every insecurity you thought you’d outgrown. Authors Adam and Chelsea Griffin of the Family Discipleship Podcast join Dave and Ann to uncover why comparison drains us—and how Christ’s steady love refuels patience, grit, and tenacious joy. With honesty, laughter, and a few wince-worthy confessions, this episode will remind all you weary moms and dads: You’re not alone, you’re not behind, and you’re loved more deeply than you think.

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Would you say that most of your days are filled with contentment or anxiety? Dr. Stanley teaches that anxiety is not something God gives but something we bring upon ourselves. Learn how you can overcome obstacles to peace.

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Wise counsel is a gift—especially when it helps us steward money with clarity and purpose. In Scripture, we learn that safety and wisdom are found not in going it alone, but in listening well. On the next Faith & Finance Live, Rob West and Sharon Epps explain how to discern the right voices and what it looks like to seek help with humility and faith. Then, it’s on to your calls. That’s Faith & Finance Live—where biblical wisdom meets today’s financial decisions—weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio.

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Tim and Kathy Bush share their story of radical transformation from infidelity and addiction, to passionately serving the Lord together. They share tools and encouragement for hurting couples to redeem their broken marriages.

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