Wealth Well Done

In this episode, Eric Scovill is joined by financial advisor Andrew Barlow to discuss biblical investment strategies and portfolio construction. Andrew shares his background in entrepreneurship and tech startups, and how he now focuses on championing biblical financial stewardship through companies like HIS Kingdom Resources. 

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• Andrew's background in homeschooling, entrepreneurship, and faith-based businesses

Episode Highlights:

[13:48] What It Means to Be a Biblically Responsible Investor

Being a biblically responsible investor means screening potential investments to ensure they align with biblical values and do not violate key ethical principles. Some of the criteria Andrew mentioned that Kingdom Resources uses include:

• Avoiding companies involved in activities like abortion, pornography, or human rights violations.

The goal is to invest in businesses that are ethically and morally sound according to scriptural teachings, rather than simply maximizing returns regardless of alignment with faith. It's about integrating biblical stewardship principles into investment decisions and portfolio composition.

[16:22] Building a Portfolio for Stewardship

Andrew discusses the importance of comprehensive financial planning to understand a client's unique situation, goals, and risk tolerance. For a client in their 50s, he recommends constructing a portfolio that balances growth potential with downside protection. This involves diversifying across asset classes like equities, fixed income, and alternatives to reduce volatility. Within equities, he advocates an actively managed approach that implements strategies like trailing stops to limit losses if positions move against them. Non-correlated assets such as real estate and private equity are also discussed as ways to provide portfolio diversification. Andrew stresses considering the client's time horizon and liquidity needs to determine an appropriate asset allocation that achieves their objectives in a risk-conscious manner.

[24:56] Investing for Kingdom Impact through Private Equity

Andrew outlines HIS Kingdom Resources private equity fund, which only considers companies that are both Christian-owned and operated, as well as having a mission or products that are aligned with furthering biblical goals and kingdom work. Each potential investment is thoroughly vetted to ensure it meets these stringent criteria. The fund also targets a minimum 10x return on investments to demonstrate that prioritizing faith-based screening does not require concessionary financial returns. Any profits are then strategically reinvested into amplifying kingdom impact through initiatives like Bible distribution, fighting human trafficking, and supporting pro-life efforts. By taking an active ownership role with board seats in its portfolio companies, HIS Kingdom Resources provides backing, resources, and community to help Christian entrepreneurs thrive in their work and multiply their transformational impact on the world, all while uniting the body of Christ in business.

Resources Mentioned:

HIS Kingdom Resources

Fasting is a tool that can be used for continued spiritual growth when done with the right heart posture. In this episode, Eric Scovill sits down with Pastor Nathan Rychener as they dive deep into the biblical discipline of fasting - what it is, why we do it, and how to get started. 

Whether you're new to fasting or want to take your spiritual life to the next level, this discussion is full of practical wisdom and encouragement. Give this episode a listen to learn more about how fasting can strengthen your walk with God. 

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• Defining biblical fasting

Episode Highlights:

[03:52] Defining Biblical Fasting

Nathan seeks to clearly define what biblical fasting entails according to Scripture. He states that the primary reason Christians fast is because they long for Jesus and want to be closer to Him, not just to receive personal breakthroughs. Fasting is about longing for Christ and intimacy with Him.

[10:34] Fasting for Intimacy with God

Nathan explains that biblical fasting according to Scripture is abstaining from food in order to spend more time praying to and reading the Word of God. He clarifies that fasting is not about trying to earn or manipulate power from God, but rather is a means of cultivating intimacy with Him through dedicated prayer and time in His presence

[14:02] What Fasting Looks Like Based on the Bible

Nathan provides several biblical examples of fasting to illustrate what it entailed according to Scripture. He mentions Moses' 40 day fast with no food or water, Ezra and Nehemiah fasting for protection, Daniel fasting for insight, Esther fasting to seek God's favor, and Jesus' 40 day fast in the wilderness. He emphasizes that biblical fasting generally involved abstaining from food and redirecting that time and energy to prayer and studying God's Word.

[22:20] Fasting as a Means to Cultivate Spiritual Hunger

Nathan discusses how fasting can awaken and increase our spiritual hunger for God. He explains that we don't typically fast unless we already have some level of hunger or longing for more of God in our lives. Fasting intensifies that hunger.

As the physical hunger pains start, taking ourselves deeper into prayer and Scripture can help direct that hunger spiritually. Nathan finds that as he fasts, his hunger and cry for more of God grows stronger. Fasting seems to be a tool the Holy Spirit uses to stir up a deeper spiritual hunger and appetite for Christ within us.

Have you ever struggled to hear God's guidance clearly? In this episode, Eric Scovill continues his conversation with Pastor Nathan Rychener on the topic of partnering with the Holy Spirit. They discuss practical tools for discerning God's will through prayer and partnership with the Holy Spirit. They explore the T-R-U-S-T prayer acronym, ways to wait on the Lord for answers, and developing a deeper relationship with Him over time. Nathan also shares insights from his own journey growing closer to God through praying in tongues. 

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• The TRUST prayer

Episode Highlights:

[07:54] Different Ways to Wait on God for Guidance

Nathan recommends continuing to pray and seek the Lord, rather than giving up after just one brief prayer time. Nathan also suggests taking the decision to trusted advisors in one's church, as the Holy Spirit may provide insight and counsel through other believers. Checking Scripture is another option as God may have already directly answered similar questions in His Word. Nathan acknowledges that demonic interference or a dull spiritual state could potentially cloud what one is hearing from God as well. Overall, he emphasizes the importance of submitting one's ways to God through prayer, talking to Him about the decision, and trusting Him to lead and show the way in His timing, even if clarity is not immediate.

[16:31] Understanding the Holy Spirit’s Gift of Tongues

Nathan seeks to provide biblical clarity around the often misunderstood gift of tongues. He notes that 1 Corinthians 14:2 tells us that speaking in tongues is directed towards God rather than men, as the speaker is uttering mysteries in the Spirit. This aligns with Paul's description in the passage of one who speaks in tongues building up their own spirit. It does not need to be an earthly language but can simply be spiritual speech between the believer and God. He points to Jude 20 which encourages Christians to build themselves up through praying in the Holy Spirit. Further defending the gift, Nathan shares Paul's own example from 1 Corinthians 14:18 of thanking God that he spoke in tongues more than all the Corinthians. This glimpse into the apostle's prayer life underscores the importance and value he placed upon exercising this spiritual gift.

[28:24] Partnering with the Holy Spirit for Spiritual Growth

Nathan clarifies that while God wants to partner with believers, the partnership must be understood from His perspective as master rather than as equals. Nathan emphasizes that the partnership is not about coming to God with our own selfish ambitions, but coming to learn and submit to His goals and dreams for our lives, existing to do His bidding and say yes to His direction rather than expecting Him to help achieve our own agendas. This helps bring clarity around properly understanding the partnership as one that promotes spiritual growth through following where God leads.

Resources Mentioned:

The Beauty of Spiritual Language by Jack Hayford

The Language of Heaven by Sam Storms

How can we embed the Holy Spirit into our daily routines? In this episode of Wealth Well Done, Eric Scovill is joined by Pastor Nathan Rychener to discuss practical ways to partner with the Holy Spirit in our daily lives. They explore what it means to have an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit and seek His guidance.

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• Understanding the Holy Spirit as a person, not just a force

Episode Highlights:

[10:02] Understanding Jesus and the Holy Spirit

• In the passages from John 14-17, Jesus often references the arrival of "another helper", using the same Greek term which describes Jesus as our advocate in 1 John 2:1. The Holy Spirit is very much like Jesus, acting as our helper and counselor. The Holy Spirit's main responsibility is to "bear witness about" Him, essentially testifying of Christ and enhancing our comprehension of His identity. This passage, as interpreted by Nathan, emphasizes how collaboration with the Holy Spirit can deepen our knowledge of Jesus and strengthen our commitment to following Him.

[27:38] Ways to Partner with The Holy Spirit Beyond Just Emergencies

• Nathan warns against relegating the Holy Spirit to a role of an "emergency fire alarm," only summoned in crises. He underscores that the Holy Spirit seeks to be a constant companion in every aspect of our lives - from routine tasks and decisions to interactions, schedules, relationships, and more. Nathan advises daily fellowship with the Holy Spirit through prayer and Scripture reading, and urges us to seek His guidance in all situations, big or small. His key message is to continually integrate the Holy Spirit into every facet of our Christian journey, rather than limiting His involvement to emergencies.

[31:16] Developing Deeper Intimacy through Prayer

Nathan shares a helpful acrostic he uses for prayer called "TRUST" –

• Thanking - expressing gratitude to the Holy Spirit for His constant presence, gifts in his life, and work through him.

Nathan finds the "TRUST" framework particularly valuable for those wanting to develop a deeper prayer life and partnership with the Holy Spirit. It provides structure without being rigid or limiting, encouraging intimacy at each step.

In today's session, Eric Scovill interviews Bango Muzafalu, the director of International Children Care Ministries, an orphanage in Uganda. Having overcome childhood hardships to now care for 32 orphaned children, Bango shares his inspiring journey of faith and perseverance. 

Bango further delves into the present state of Uganda, highlighting the struggles with unemployment, corruption, and issues related to the church. He elaborates on the vision for his orphanage and how you can contribute to their cause. This episode presents an intriguing exploration of faith, resilience, and triumph over adversity.

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• Bango’s childhood backstory

Episode Highlights:

[07:43] Faith in Adversity: How Hardship Strengthened Bango's Relationship with God

Bango shares how losing both of his parents at a young age left him responsible for caring for his younger siblings in their time of need. His story provides valuable insights into how faith often develops and is tested through hardship in parts of Africa. Without their parents, Bango and his siblings faced tremendous challenges merely surviving each day. The circumstances were extremely difficult, with lack of food, shelter, and support. However, it was during these times that Bango's trust in God grew strongest. When all other options were lost, God became his sole source of hope and provision.

[13:51] A Gift of Hope: Bango's Calling to Dance for God Amid Hardship

Even during his most difficult times of poverty and uncertainty, Bango recalls having a strong inner calling to dance for Jesus. From a young age while living on the streets and struggling to provide for his siblings, Bango felt a love rising within him to dance and worship God. He would tell his friends one day he would dance for Jesus. This calling gave Bango purpose and hope during his darkest moments. Bango's passion for dancing was a gift that brought him joy, even in the face of tremendous hardship. 

[21:06] A Glimpse into Life in Uganda

Bango shares some of the challenges facing everyday Ugandans. He explains that unemployment is widespread, as the large youth population struggles to find work. With few job opportunities, poverty is prevalent. Corruption also plagues the country according to Bango, with government resources not always reaching those in need. Despite these difficulties, Bango maintains hope for the future. While life in Uganda presents daily struggles, Bango finds purpose in caring for the community's most vulnerable - its orphaned children. Through his orphanage, he is able to bring relief to families during hardship. Bango underscores both the realities of living in Uganda, but also the resilience of its people. Even amid societal obstacles, compassionate individuals like Bango are making a difference through serving others with optimism.

Resources Mentioned:

International Children Care Ministries

In our latest episode, host Eric Scovill revisits an impactful conversation with Chuck Day from International Justice Mission (IJM). Prompted by a personal experience at an airport where Eric suspected a child was being trafficked, this episode serves as a wake-up call to the horrific realities of human trafficking. Listen in as we unravel the disturbing intricacies of trafficking operations and the unimaginable abuse victims face. This episode is not just informative, but equips you with knowledge about IJM's effective model, preparing you to recognize signs of trafficking and potentially save a life.

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• Eric’s recent experience of witnessing a potential sex trafficking at airport

Episode Highlights:

[10:30] What is Planned Giving?

Giving appreciated stock, real estate, and IRA assets can offer significant tax and financial benefits. As a stewardship advisor, Chuck’s job is to guide families in making effective charitable contributions by assessing their goals and assets. He determines the optimal asset to donate, timing, and arrangement for maximum benefits to all parties involved.

[11:38] A Mission to Combat Human Trafficking and Protect the Poor

The International Justice Mission is a human rights nonprofit organization headquartered in Washington, DC, originally established in 1997. Their mission is to protect the world's poor people from violent crime, as they are by far the largest victims of violent crime of any group in the world. IJM operates worldwide in various forms, but its primary focus is tackling human trafficking and slavery, an issue that many remain unaware of despite its massive scale. It is IJM's most notable area of work, and they strive to combat these atrocities targeted toward the vulnerable and oppressed.

[17:32] How Slavery Evolved Into Modern-Day Slavery

High school taught us that slavery ended in the Civil War, but that's only partly true. Slavery has taken on new forms such as sex trafficking and labor trafficking, affecting more people than ever before. Only 2 billion of the 7 billion people on earth are protected under the law. What happens to the remaining 5 billion?

[19:57] The Devastating Reality of Sex Trafficking: How It Happens and How We Can Stop It

Sex trafficking amounts to a $150 billion industry worldwide. Children are often tricked into this trade after being offered job opportunities by representatives. They remain trapped until someone rescues them. Online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC) is a new form of trafficking that occurs primarily in the Philippines. Here, perpetrators use streaming services to direct children in front of webcams, typing in the sex acts they want the child to perform. Sadly, the only circumstance in which relatives knowingly engage their children in sex trafficking is through OSEC. The International Justice Mission (IJM) focuses on ending this egregious crime before it spreads to other parts of the world. To that end, IJM and the US Government work together to stop the crime in its tracks. Learn more about the devastating reality of sex trafficking and how we can put an end to it.

Resources:

https://legacy.ijm.org/  

The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer

In today's business world, it's easy to get caught up in chasing money, status and success. But as believers, we're called to a higher standard of managing our resources in a way that honors God. In this episode, Eric Scovill and Pastor Nathan Rychener continue the conversation and tackle this important topic head-on. Through insightful biblical teaching and practical advice, take their challenge to reexamine your relationship with finances from a place of heart transformation. Find the encouragement to get into God's word, make a plan, and live generously!

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• Rejecting Jesus through inaction in the face of cultural opposition

Episode Highlights:

[09:57] Finding Motivation and Humility in God's Help

When you earnestly pray and seek God's guidance and assistance, your motivation to follow through on your intentions significantly increases. The essence of being poor in spirit is recognized as humbly approaching God, acknowledging that we possess nothing of merit to impress Him. This understanding shifts the focus from material poverty to a poverty of spirit, emphasizing the importance of relying on God's help in all endeavors.

[14:12] A Call for Contrition: Recognizing the Lack of Brokenness over Sin

In Psalm 119:136, the Psalmist expresses deep sorrow and sheds tears over the disobedience to God's law that he witnesses in the world. His heart is shattered because he understands that sin grieves God. This heartfelt response to sin contrasts with the current state of spirituality, particularly in America, where there seems to be a lack of contrition and brokenness over wrongdoing. This lack of remorse serves as a troubling sign of the spiritual sickness within our society. The Psalmist's example calls us to examine our own hearts and rekindle a genuine sense of sorrow and repentance for our collective transgressions.

[17:40] Tips for Getting Started with the Bible

For those wanting to get started with regular Bible reading, Nathan suggests beginning with short passages like the Sermon on the Mount to avoid getting overwhelmed. Developing a consistent reading plan is also important, whether it's a chapter a day or reading through the whole Bible in a year. Additional resources like the Bible Project videos can help provide context without replacing direct engagement with Scripture. Most importantly, they stress the need to pray and meditate on what is read in order to understand and apply it, not just check reading off a to-do list. With a plan and the Holy Spirit's help, regular Bible study can become a life-changing habit.

[21:17] Practical Steps to Align Your Finances with God's Purposes

Begin your financial journey by examining your heart attitude and embracing the concept of stewardship of God's resources. Gain a comprehensive understanding of biblical teachings on tithing, cheerful giving, and generosity. Develop a generous lifestyle by considering "how much" you can give in each opportunity, rather than questioning whether to give at all. Remember, the importance lies in giving generously, regardless of the amount, as your heart posture matters more than the dollar figure. Stay open to God's guidance in reshaping your financial goals, dreams, and priorities to align with His purposes. Prioritize obedience over personal desires and regularly seek divine guidance through prayer for your spending, saving, investing, and giving, ensuring alignment with God's will.

How serious are you about your faith? On the latest episode of “Wealth Well Done”, Eric and Pastor Nathan Rector challenge comfortable Christianity. They discuss the high stakes of judgment day and urge listeners to truly know and obey God, not just check boxes. Nathan emphasizes responding immediately to Holy Spirit conviction. Don't rely only on second hand knowledge - regularly read Scripture yourself. This episode will stir you up and make you reconsider your relationship with Christ. 

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• Rediscovering the fear of the Lord

Episode Highlights:

[04:55] Rediscovering the Fear of the Lord

In the American church, the fear of the Lord has been lost, along with the reverence, humility, and contrition that accompany it. This absence is evident in our lack of recognition of God's holiness, as seen when Isaiah encountered Him in Isaiah 6. Overwhelmed by a sense of his own unworthiness, Isaiah cried out and fell before the Lord. It is this realization that ignites the fear of the Lord within us. This fear is what safeguards us from sin and compromise, guiding us to walk in integrity and wholeheartedness before God. In an age where this fear is desperately needed, let us seek to rediscover it and cultivate a deep reverence for the Lord.

[08:47] Fear of the Lord for Eternal Perspective and Finances

Without the fear of the Lord, all perspective is lost. We find ourselves chasing after temporary and trivial things of this world, losing sight of eternity and what truly matters. The weight and importance of things in God's eyes fade away when we lack the fear of the Lord. Living for eternity becomes impossible without this reverence. Taking this concept to the realm of money, it becomes clear that faithful handling of finances in light of eternity requires the fear of the Lord residing within our hearts. To gain a proper perspective and live with eternal significance, let us cultivate a deep reverence for God in every aspect of our lives.

[16:53] Genuine Repentance: Actions that Reflect True Transformation

In Acts 26, Paul boldly declares his message of repentance and turning to God to King Agrippa. He emphasizes the importance of performing deeds in line with true repentance. While salvation is a free gift based on the grace of Jesus, it requires action when Jesus says, "Follow me." Paul's message resonates as he urges believers to demonstrate their repentance by taking tangible steps towards change. Whether it's breaking free from addictions or rectifying dishonest practices, genuine repentance calls for actions that align with the transformation of the heart.

[23:03] Wholehearted Devotion: Surrendering All to Love God

In emphasizing the first and most important commandment, Jesus instructs us to love the Lord our God with every aspect of our being - heart, soul, mind, and strength. This goes beyond mere sentimentality; it entails wholehearted devotion and complete surrender to God in every area of our lives. It means obeying Him in all aspects - from our relationships to our finances, from our physical well-being to our business endeavors. True love for God leaves no room for half-heartedness or selective obedience; instead, it encompasses a radical surrender, acknowledging that everything we have belongs to Him, and we willingly follow His guidance in all things.

Are you allowing fear to control your financial decisions? Well, fear can paralyze us when it comes to our finances and obedience to God's calling. In this episode of “Wealth Well Done”, Eric Scovill dives deep into the common fears that hold us back, such as running out of money and fear of failure or rejection. Discover how to recognize and overcome these fears by applying biblical principles and letting faith conquer fear. Don't let fear hinder your financial stewardship and God-given calling.

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• Biblical examples of bravery

Episode Highlights:

[09:24] Identifying the Different Kinds of Fears

• Fear of running out of money - Eric notes this fear can ruin marriages if it causes spouses to argue over finances or hold back from proper stewardship. It can also hinder obedience to God if it keeps someone from fully tithing or supporting causes they feel called to.

[10:49] Overcoming the Fear of Losing

In sports, in order for a team to gain an early lead, they may prematurely shift to "proven defense" out of fear, ultimately changing their entire mindset. Relating this to investing and decision making, Eric emphasizes how some people's fear of losing prevents them from taking risks or even trying in the first place. Instead, don’t let the fear of losing hinder opportunities that God may want to bring into your life through obedience and courageous action, as this fear can impede the plans and calling God has for you.

[23:39] The Herd Mentality

During Jesus' beating and mockery, an estimated 150-200 or possibly up to 600 Roman soldiers participated, despite some having knowledge of his teachings and miracles. Eric highlights the parallel with religious leaders like the Pharisees who, influenced by the herd mentality, failed to stand against the crowd, though their hearts had hardened against Jesus. Only a few, like Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea, displayed courage by defending Jesus even when it was unpopular. Eric encourages us to resist the herd mentality, prioritize what is right in God's eyes, and uphold personal conviction and courage to avoid being swayed by crowd behavior.

[29:02] Overcoming Fear with Faith

When we embrace the challenges of doing what God asks us to do, we often overlook the true magnitude of the monumental achievements and underdog stories in the Bible. It's crucial to comprehend the context of being like an isolated individual surrounded by an army seeking to harm you, yet rising up with unwavering faith and boldly declaring, "No, look at what's beyond them, the presence of angels." Discovering how to let our faith triumph over fear is truly life-giving.

Are you faithfully stewarding the gifts and opportunities God has given you? In this week's episode, Eric delves into the Parable of the Talents found in Matthew 25. This parable teaches important lessons about stewardship, accountability, and faithfully using the gifts God has given us.

In the parable, two servants doubled their talents through wise investment and were praised – but the servant who buried his talent out of fear was severely rebuked. God expects us to develop the abilities He's provided, and not let fear hold us back from His calling.

New perspectives on an often-misunderstood parable await. If you want an encouraging challenge to better steward your God-given talents, listen to this episode! Share with a friend who needs to hear they don't have to live in fear. 

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• Seeing ourselves as stewards, not owners 

Episode Highlights:

[09:05] God's Ownership, Our Stewardship

Everything we possess, including our time, talents, treasures, body, reputation, resources, and relationships, are not truly ours but belong to God. We are merely the stewards, entrusted with these gifts. While it may seem like our hard work brought us these things, it is God who ultimately granted us the ability to earn them. Recognizing this fact shifts our perspective entirely. When we view everything through the lens of stewardship, it alters how we perceive and handle everything around us. The biblical concept of stewardship is a constant theme, reminding us that we are accountable for utilizing God's gifts responsibly and effectively.

[17:31] Making the Most of Our Abilities, No Matter How Small

• Eric discusses the expectation of God for us to maximize the abilities and resources bestowed upon us, regardless of their perceived size. He highlights the parable where the master commends the servant on his faithfulness over a few talents. Eric underscores that in the grand scheme of God's creation, what we consider vast could still be minute. The essential takeaway is that being faithful with small things paves the way for increased responsibilities. We ought to cultivate the gifts and opportunities God has provided without drawing comparisons but instead, using our abilities for His divine intentions.

[27:17] Stepping Out in Faith Instead of Living in Fear

• Eric highlights the parable of the servant who hid his talent out of fear, emphasizing that "fear of failure is no reason for inaction." He cites scriptures like Exodus 20:20, encouraging us not to be afraid as God's tests are meant to strengthen us. Eric urges his audience to act courageously and pursue any ambitious goal that God may have instilled in their hearts, despite any fears they might harbor. He asserts that living in fear is incongruous when God encourages us to take risks for His kingdom. The parable serves as a lesson that God values faith and action over fear-induced stagnation, reinforcing that we should not let fear hinder us from fulfilling our divine purpose.

Resources Mentioned:

www.stewardshipresources.com