WDAC Podcasts

Most people think of fasting in terms of what we don’t do—which is eat. But Dr. Tony Evans explains how the Bible outlines behaviors that show our sacrifice goes beyond simply giving up a meal and calls us to a lifestyle that reflects God’s heart.

Scott Hamilton is an Olympic gold medal figure skater and former national television commentator. His compelling story begins with being adopted and overcoming physical illness as a child to compete in skating, followed by cancer and multiple brain tumors. Reaching the pinnacle of his sport couldn’t fill the hole in Scott’s heart. Not until he found his identity in Christ did he arrive at true peace and joy. He’ll share about his lifelong journey of overcoming as he inspires others with the Gospel.

Receive the book Finish First and the audio download of the broadcast "An Olympic Champion’s Journey to Real Life and Meaning" for your donation of any amount!

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Feel like your spouse is physically present but emotionally checked out—especially after long days, travel, or career demands? Matt and Sarah Hammitt (Sanctus Real) get brutally honest about emotional absence and the tension that builds when one partner carries the load alone. Matt and Sarah offer practical ideas to help true love survive conflict, defensiveness, and absence--for a love that goes the distance.

Show Notes and Resources

• Lead Me: Finding Courage to Fight for Your Marriage, Children, and Faith by Matt Hammitt
• Marriage After Dark: the podcast where a real couple answers the questions you’re too embarrassed to ask. Get it at FamilyLife.com/MarriageAfterDark

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Scripture reminds us that wisdom often begins with counting the cost. As the average age of a first-time homebuyer approaches 40, many people are asking an important and sincere question: Is now the right time to buy a home—or should we continue renting?

That question usually reflects a desire to make a wise, lasting decision—one that supports long-term stability rather than undermining it. Before comparing monthly payments or imagining life in a new space, it’s worth taking a clear-eyed look at what it truly costs to move from renting into homeownership.

One of the biggest surprises for first-time buyers is the sheer cost of getting into a home. The pre-approval and closing process involves numerous expenses, including appraisals, inspections, credit reports, earnest money, title searches, loan origination fees, and closing costs. Taken together, these can add up to thousands of dollars before move-in day ever arrives.

For renters transitioning to homeownership, these costs are typically paid out of pocket. That’s one reason many advisors encourage having close to 20% of the purchase price available—not only for a down payment, but to create margin for the entire process. This isn’t about delaying dreams unnecessarily; it’s about ensuring homeownership doesn’t begin with financial strain.

Many renters feel a growing weariness with paying rent month after month, especially compared with building equity. That desire for something tangible and lasting is understandable—but it’s important to remember that rent is not wasted money.

Rent pays for shelter, safety, maintenance, and predictability. It meets a real and ongoing need and, in that sense, pays for a valuable service. During certain seasons of life, that flexibility and stability can be a wise and intentional choice.

It’s also helpful to understand how a mortgage payment actually works. A typical payment includes principal, interest, property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and often private mortgage insurance if you own less than 20% of the home’s value. In some cases, HOA fees are also added.

In the early years of a traditional 30-year mortgage, a significant portion of each payment goes toward interest rather than reducing the loan balance. Thirty-year mortgages can still be wise—they keep payments manageable and allow flexibility if you want to make extra principal payments—but they are designed to be long-term loans. Early equity growth often comes more from market appreciation than from paying down the balance.

Rising home prices can create fear about waiting too long, pushing buyers to act before they’re ready. While market trends are worth paying attention to, they shouldn’t be the deciding factor. A home should fit your current season of life and support your responsibilities and priorities—not stretch your finances or limit your ability to live and give faithfully.

It also helps to release the pressure of finding a “forever home.” On average, first-time buyers stay in their homes seven to ten years. Career changes, growing families, and life transitions often make moving a natural part of the journey. The first home simply needs to perform well in the current season.

Rising rents are another common frustration, especially when lease renewals result in higher monthly costs. But owning a home doesn’t eliminate rising expenses. While a fixed-rate mortgage keeps principal and interest steady, property taxes and homeowner’s insurance typically increase over time. Even after a mortgage is paid off, those costs remain.

Maintenance is another reality worth considering. Once you own a home, repairs are your responsibili

What question shapes your life—”Lord, are You pleased?” … or “Do people approve?”  Today on BOLD STEPS, Mark Jobe concludes a leadership message with Saul’s devastating example.  Watch how insecurity can sabotage legacy and spiritual destiny, and find the freedom of living for God’s applause alone.  Lead with confidence in God’s calling ... listen to Bold Steps with Mark Jobe.

Bold Step Gift: Unshakable Hope: Building Our Lives on the Promises of God

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