***“All his days are full of sorrow, and his work is a vexation. Even in the night his heart does not rest. This also is vanity.”* — *Ecclesiastes 2:23***

That verse reveals a painful truth: even a productive life can feel empty when our work is driven by the wrong purpose. Wealth on its own doesn’t bring peace—often, it brings more pressure. But Scripture offers a better way.

**What’s Driving All the Effort?**

It’s easy to admire someone who plans wisely, saves consistently, and builds steadily over time. Our culture praises that kind of discipline as responsible and virtuous—and often, it is. But Ecclesiastes challenges us to ask: **What’s driving all that effort?**

*“I hated all my toil... seeing that I must leave it to the man who will come after me.”* — *Ecclesiastes 2:18*

The Preacher isn’t condemning hard work—he’s grieving that all he’s built will one day be handed off, possibly to someone who won’t value or steward it well.

**Success Without Peace**

That’s where sorrow begins—not in failure, but in success without peace.

The more we accumulate, the more we fear losing it. What promised security only multiplies anxiety. What a striking image—someone lying awake at night, not from failure, but from success. The more they possess, the more they worry.

This is the irony of accumulation: it convinces us that security is just one more achievement away, while quietly making us more anxious the more we gain.

Jesus echoes this same warning in Luke 12. He tells the parable of a rich man who reaped such a bountiful harvest that he decided to build bigger barns to store it all. His conclusion?

*“Take life easy—eat, drink, and be merry.”*

To the world, that sounds like winning. But Jesus calls him a fool. Why? Because that very night, his life would be demanded of him. Then comes the haunting question:

*“The things you have prepared, whose will they be?”*

**The Danger of an Entitled Heart**

What’s even more interesting is the context of that parable. Jesus responds in this manner to a man who asks Him to settle an inheritance dispute. This wasn’t someone who earned the wealth—he simply wanted his share, and maybe more.

Jesus’ warning is clear: a greedy heart isn’t the only danger. **An entitled heart is just as spiritually destructive.**

And that’s exactly what the Preacher feared in *Ecclesiastes*—wealth falling into the hands of someone who didn’t labor for it and may not know how to handle it wisely.

We see this all the time in real life. Many financial advisors and estate planners will tell you that inherited wealth, especially when passed down without spiritual or emotional maturity, can do more harm than good. It can fracture families, distort priorities, and erode purpose.

The problem isn’t money itself—it’s the absence of wisdom alongside it.

**Where True Peace Comes From**

That’s why this lesson matters. You can save well, build wealth, and still feel anxious and unsatisfied—not because you failed, but because you expected your efforts to give you what only God can: **peace, joy, and purpose.**

But here’s the good news—Ecclesiastes doesn’t leave us in despair.

*“To the one who pleases Him, God has given wisdom and knowledge and joy.”* — *Ecclesiastes 2:26*

The solution isn’t to stop working or saving. The solution is to stop worshiping our work.
 Stop defining success by the size of your bank account and start defining it by your faithfulness to the One who owns it all.

When we live as stewards instead of owners, the pressure lifts. We begin to see wealth not as a prize to secure our future, but as a tool to serve God’s Kingdom. Accumulation loses its grip, and generosity takes root. That’s when real joy begins.

So, ask yourself today:

- *Am I building bigger barns, or am I faithfully stewarding what God has already entrusted to me?*
- *Am I chasing peace through my possessions, or receiving it from the Prince of Peace Himself?*

Because in the end, **peace doesn’t come from what we’ve earned. It comes from who we trust.**

**Go Deeper with *Wisdom Over Wealth***

If you’re wrestling with these questions, consider getting a copy of our Bible study based on Ecclesiastes called *[Wisdom Over Wealth](https://www.faithfi.com/shop/wisdomoverwealth)*. It dives deeper into this theme of dethroning the idol of accumulation and learning to live with contentment and purpose.

This month, when you support the ministry of FaithFi with a gift of $35 or more, we’ll send you *[Wisdom Over Wealth](https://www.faithfi.com/shop/wisdomoverwealth)* as our way of saying thank you. Just head over to[ FaithFi.com/wisdom](https://www.faithfi.com/wisdom) to request your copy.

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Wealth on its own doesn’t bring peace—often, it brings more pressure. But Scripture offers a better way.

The Search for Satisfaction: When Pleasure Falls Short

__*“I said in my heart, ‘Come now, I will test you with pleasure; enjoy yourself.’ But behold, this also was vanity.”*  —Ecclesiastes 2:1__

That verse kicks off one of the boldest experiments in all of Scripture. The Preacher in the book of Ecclesiastes set out to discover whether pleasure could deliver lasting satisfaction. He pursued laughter, wine, work, wealth—every earthly delight you can imagine.

So what was his conclusion?

*“Behold, all was vanity and a striving after wind.”* —Ecclesiastes 1:14

Despite having unlimited resources and access to every pleasure imaginable, he found it all to be empty. And that’s a message our culture desperately needs to hear. Because today, we’re constantly bombarded with messages like “treat yourself,” “follow your heart,” and “do what makes you happy.”

__The Illusion of Fulfillment__

From the trips we plan to the gadgets we buy, the world tells us that joy is just one more experience or purchase away. But Ecclesiastes forces us to ask a harder question:

What if pleasure doesn’t lead where we think it does?

Imagine a bag of old receipts. Each one represents a moment that once brought excitement: a nice dinner, a new gadget, a spontaneous splurge. But now? They’re just scraps of paper. The feeling is gone. The thrill didn’t last. That’s exactly what the Preacher experienced—only on a far greater scale.

In the passage referenced in the beginning, the Preacher says: *“Come now, I will test you with pleasure,”* and test it he did. He pursued laughter and wine, built houses and planted vineyards. He created lush gardens, amassed wealth, hired singers, gathered servants, and surrounded himself with every earthly comfort—even concubines.

This wasn’t reckless living. This was a thoughtful, calculated test. He says, *“Whatever my eyes desired, I did not keep from them.”* In today’s terms, it would be like saying, *“If it looked fun, I bought it. If it felt good, I did it.”* He chased every high with purpose—and still came up empty.

__Why Pleasure Can’t Satisfy__

Why?

Because pleasure was never meant to carry the weight of our deepest longings. It promises fulfillment but delivers only a momentary escape. The author of Ecclesiastes says it’s like trying to hold smoke in your hands—real for a moment, then gone.

Now, most of us don’t live lavishly like this, much less have the ability to do so. But we do have our own versions. We grab a comfort snack. We scroll social media a little too long. We click “add to cart,” hoping the package will brighten our week. And for a moment, it might. But that moment fades. And the cycle starts again.

This reminds me of Jesus’ parable of the prodigal son. Here was a young man who took his inheritance and pursued a life of pleasure, only to end up broke and broken.

But think about this: the Preacher had everything the prodigal son wanted. He had wealth, freedom, and opportunity—yet he ended up just as empty.

Different stories. Same outcome.

__A Word of Warning—and Hope__

But here’s the grace in His story: we don’t have to repeat it. His experiment, his pain, his regret—it all serves as a warning. He turns around to tell us, *“There’s nothing here. Don’t waste your life chasing shadows.”*

That’s a gift. It frees us to reflect:

- What am I turning to when I feel tired, discouraged, or disconnected?
- What “quick fixes” do I reach for without thinking?
- And more importantly, what would it look like to seek joy in God instead?

That doesn’t mean we need to stop enjoying life. God is a generous Father who delights in giving good gifts. He created joy. But those gifts were never meant to replace Him.

When pleasure becomes the destination, we miss the Giver. We settle for the gift and forget the One who gives it.

So, the next time you reach for something to boost your mood, pause and ask:

- Is this about joy or escape?
- Is this feeding my soul or just distracting it?

Ecclesiastes doesn’t just warn us—it points us back to what matters most. It helps us dethrone the idol of pleasure and place our trust in Someone, not something. And that Someone will never fail.

__Explore More: *Wisdom Over Wealth*__

If you would like to learn more about throwing down the idol of pleasure and discovering true, lasting joy in God, we encourage you to check out our new Bible study based on Ecclesiastes, *[Wisdom Over Wealth](https://www.faithfi.com/shop/wisdomoverwealth)*. This 12-lesson study is designed to help you reflect deeply on themes like pleasure, wealth, contentment, and what it really means to live with God as your ultimate source of joy and fulfillment.

And if this message has resonated with you, would you consider supporting the mission of Faith and Finance by becoming a [FaithFi Partner](https://www.faithfi.com/give)? When you give $35 a month or $400 a year, you’ll receive this new Bible study as our gift to you, along with:

- A quarterly subscription to our *[Faithful Steward](https://www.faithfi.com/give)* magazine
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- Bulk discounts for additional copies of [FaithFi Studies, Devotionals, and Magazines](https://www.faithfi.com/shop)
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Your generosity helps us continue producing biblical resources and programming that equip God’s people to live wisely, give generously, and find their ultimate treasure in Christ.

__Visit [FaithFi.com/Partner](http://faithfi.com/Partner) to learn more and join us today. Let’s walk this journey of wisdom and worship together.__

From the trips we plan to the gadgets we buy, the world tells us that joy is just one more experience or purchase away.

Tearing Down the Idol of Pleasure

***“I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and a chasing after wind.”* – Ecclesiastes 1:14**

Life is full of pursuits and ambitions, each pressing for our attention. Like a collage, the individual pieces may not make sense until we step back and see the bigger picture. But with the gift of perspective, viewing our lives through an eternal lens can change everything.

If there’s one book in the Bible that invites us to zoom out and take an honest look at life, it’s Ecclesiastes. It’s raw, reflective, and unafraid to ask big questions:


- What’s really worth pursuing?
- What has lasting value?
- What are we building—and why?

Our new study, *[Wisdom Over Wealth](https://www.faithfi.com/shop/wisdomoverwealth)*, explores the book of Ecclesiastes with these questions in mind. It helps us see how financial wisdom fits into the broader story of a life lived for God. I’ll tell you how to get your copy in a moment.

**Chasing the Wind**

In our everyday financial lives, it’s easy to be consumed by the immediate—this week’s bills, that investment opportunity, or the looming tax deadline. Every issue seems urgent. But what if, instead of focusing on just one puzzle piece, we looked at how it fits into the whole? What if we could pull back and see our finances as part of a much bigger story?

That’s the gift of perspective. It lifts us out of the weeds and helps us see clearly. When we understand how our financial choices connect to our spiritual priorities, we begin making wiser, more intentional decisions.

Ecclesiastes invites us to take a mile-high view of not just our money but life itself. The Preacher, on whom this book is based, says he has seen all the works done *“under the sun”* and found them to be vanity, a chasing after the wind. Not because work or wealth are bad, but because they leave us empty when they become our ultimate goals.

That’s a message we need in a culture that constantly tells us to buy more, earn more, and do more. But *Ecclesiastes* points out that it’s all meaningless if disconnected from God’s purposes.

**Wealth as a Tool, Not a Treasure**

This doesn’t mean that wealth is meaningless—far from it. When we view money through a biblical lens, we understand that it’s not something to be worshiped or hoarded. It’s a tool to be used for God’s Kingdom purposes. When stewarded wisely, wealth can be used for incredible good: to bless others, to support ministry, and to bring glory to God.

That’s where the book of Ecclesiastes speaks about stewardship. It reminds us that we don’t truly own anything. Everything we have is entrusted to us by God. We’re stewards, not owners—and that changes everything.

It changes how we think about earning, saving, giving, and even retiring. It redirects our focus from accumulation to impact. Instead of asking, *“How much can I gain?”* we begin to ask, *“How can I use what I have to reflect God’s character?”*

### 

**The Call to Contentment**

That’s the heart of biblical stewardship—living with open hands, trusting God as our provider, and using what we’ve been given for His glory.

Ecclesiastes also teaches us something else that’s crucial for our financial lives: contentment. The writer encourages us to enjoy our work, to appreciate what we have, and to find joy in the simple gifts of life. It’s a call to be present, to stop comparing, and to stop chasing.

Whether we’re in a season of plenty or a season of little, contentment helps us stay grounded. It reminds us that peace isn’t found in having more—it’s found in walking with God, where we find lasting peace no matter our financial situation.

So, how do we begin to cultivate this perspective? How do we step back and see our finances in light of God’s larger story?

Start by asking some honest questions:


- *“What truly matters to me?”*
- *“What do I want my financial legacy to be?”*
- *“How can I reflect God’s values in how I manage His money?”*

When you pause to reflect, you begin to see money not as the end goal, but as a resource to be used wisely and generously. Perspective leads to peace because it ultimately leads us back to God. It frees us from the endless striving and invites us into a deeper trust in His provision.

**FaithFi’s Newest Study: Wisdom Over Wealth**

If you’re ready to explore how God’s wisdom speaks into your financial life, we invite you to journey through *[Wisdom Over Wealth](https://www.faithfi.com/shop/wisdomoverwealth)*—a 12-lesson study through the book of Ecclesiastes. You’ll reflect on Scripture, engage with practical and personal insights, and be guided in prayer as you consider how to live with financial wisdom in a fleeting world. This study will challenge your assumptions about money, deepen your trust in God’s provision, and help you treasure Christ above all.

**You can request your copy when you become a [FaithFi Partner](https://www.faithfi.com/partner) with a monthly gift of $35 or more, or a one-time gift of $400 annually. Just visit [FaithFi.com/Partner](http://faithfi.com/Partner) to get started. Through your partnership, you’ll not only grow in biblical wisdom—you’ll help equip others to do the same.**

Life is full of pursuits and ambitions. But with the gift of an eternal perspective, our view of life changes.

The Gift of Perspective

__*“Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.” –* Proverbs 15:22__

When it comes to managing your money wisely, few decisions are as important as choosing a financial advisor. But for Christians who want their finances to reflect their faith, it’s about more than just numbers and returns—it’s about finding someone who shares your convictions and walks with wisdom.

Here are three foundational categories to help you make a thoughtful, values-based decision.

__Values Alignment: Does Your Advisor Share Your Biblical Worldview?__

At the heart of every financial decision lies a set of values. For believers, those values are shaped by Scripture and a desire to honor God with everything, including money. That’s why the first and most critical step in choosing a financial advisor is making sure they see financial planning through a biblical lens.

__Key questions to ask:__

- *“What role does faith play in your financial advice?”*
- *“What’s your definition of financial success?”*

Look for someone who not only respects your beliefs but actively integrates biblical wisdom into their guidance. Are they encouraging you to be generous, to see money as a tool rather than a goal, and to pursue faithfulness over financial status?

To help in this search, consider looking for a [Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®)](https://www.faithfi.com/find)—a professional trained specifically to apply biblical principles to financial planning. You can find one at[ FaithFi.com](https://www.faithfi.com/) under “Find a Professional.”

__Competency: Do They Have the Skills and Experience You Need?__

Even the most aligned values won’t get far without practical expertise. A wise advisor should be equipped to handle the complexities of your financial situation and bring clarity to your planning.

__Ask questions like:__

- *“What are your credentials and certifications?”*
- *“How long have you been in practice, and who do you typically work with?”*
- *“What is your approach to financial planning?”*

Credentials like CFP® (Certified Financial Planner), CPA® (Certified Public Accountant), or CFA® (Chartered Financial Analyst) signal rigorous training and ethical standards. Just as important is their ability to explain their process clearly and tailor their advice to your unique circumstances—whether that’s preparing for retirement, navigating investments, or stewarding an inheritance.

__Process & Compensation: Are They Transparent and Client-Centered?__

Understanding how an advisor works—and how they’re paid—is vital. Their process should be relational, thorough, and focused on your best interest.

__Questions to consider:__

- *“What is your process for creating a financial plan?”*
- *“How are you compensated for your services?”*

Some advisors charge a flat fee (fee-only), while others earn commissions based on products sold. A transparent advisor will explain their compensation model and how it may affect their recommendations. Ideally, their incentives should be aligned with your goals, not driven by sales.

__Seek Wisdom, Not Just Wealth__

Selecting a financial advisor isn’t just a logistical choice—it’s a spiritual one. You're choosing someone who will help shape how you steward God’s provision. That’s why it’s worth taking the time to evaluate not just their credentials, but their convictions.

__By asking the right questions about values, competency, and process, you’ll be better positioned to find an advisor who will not only help you grow financially but also walk in greater faith and faithfulness.__

For Christians who want their finances to reflect their faith, it’s about more than just numbers and returns.

How To Choose The Right Financial Advisor

__*“Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”* - Luke 12:15__

In a culture of instant gratification, it's easier than ever to get what we want, even if we can't afford it. Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) programs make it possible to purchase just about anything in a few quick taps, from furniture and electronics to a fast-food meal. But beneath the convenience lies a growing financial and spiritual concern.

Services like DoorDash now allow users to split food orders into four equal payments. That means your cheeseburger and fries could come with a payment plan.

If that sounds like something out of a cartoon, say, Wimpy promising to *"gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today”*, you’re not wrong. The difference is, this isn’t satire. It's happening now, and it’s reshaping how millions of Americans think about money and debt.

BNPL isn’t just about big-ticket items anymore. It's integrated into daily purchases through apps and retailers. Klarna, Afterpay, Affirm, Zip, Sezzle, and PayPal are just a few of the companies fueling the trend. According to [Experian](https://www.retaildive.com/news/report-80-of-us-shoppers-use-buy-now-pay-later-to-avoid-credit-card-debt/622541/), over 80% of U.S. shoppers have used a buy now, pay later program.

__The Debt You Don’t Feel (But Still Carry)__

While these offers may feel harmless, after all, it's “just four easy payments,” they can stack up quickly. The [Consumer Financial Protection Bureau](https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-research-reveals-heavy-buy-now-pay-later-use-among-borrowers-with-high-credit-balances-and-multiple-pay-in-four-loans/) has warned that BNPL users are more likely to carry multiple balances, overdraft their accounts, and experience increased financial stress.

That’s partly because BNPL doesn’t *feel* like debt. However, missed or extended payments often come with interest rates as high as 36%. The ease of use masks the risk.

Let’s say you order $60 of takeout through a BNPL service. That breaks down to $15 every two weeks. Add a few more meals and a couple of online impulse buys, and suddenly your food budget is competing with your rent or utilities.

Or take something larger: a $3,000 couch. Miss one payment, and now you're hit with interest. You start making minimum payments at 25% APR, and by the time it’s paid off, you could end up spending close to $8,000. That’s not just expensive, that’s exhausting.

__The Spiritual Weight of Financial Slavery__

The Bible is clear about the dangers of debt. Proverbs 22:7 reminds us, *“The borrower is the slave of the lender.”* And that burden is more than financial; it affects your emotional and spiritual life. Debt introduces anxiety, divides our focus, and often distracts us from God’s best. That’s why it’s wise to pause when you’re faced with BNPL offers. Ask yourself:

- Do I truly need this item?
- Am I acting out of faith or impulse?
- Am I content with what God has already provided?

In Philippians 4:11–13, Paul gives us a deeper perspective: *“I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content…I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”*

Contentment isn’t found in the ability to swipe or click; it’s found in trusting God’s timing and provision. So, how should we respond to these modern financial temptations?

__A Better Way: Building Margin and Trust__

So, how should we respond to modern financial temptations like BNPL?

__Practically:__ Build margin. Budget ahead for what you want to purchase. Start a “wants” fund with automatic transfers. Use cash whenever possible—it brings clarity and limits regret. For smaller extras like takeout, try a weekly envelope system or digital limit. When it’s gone, it’s gone.

__Spiritually:__ Ask God to search your heart.

- Are you trusting Him to provide?
- Are you trying to manufacture your own comfort?
- Are your spending habits shaped by gratitude or striving?

The next time you see a “Pay in 4” option, stop. Ask yourself: *Do I need this? Can I afford it? Does this reflect trust in God or trust in a payment plan?*

__Saying no to unnecessary debt isn’t about guilt but freedom. The kind of freedom that lets you give generously, live simply, and sleep soundly. Most of all, it’s the freedom to live with open hands and a content heart, rooted in Christ, not credit.__

In a culture of instant gratification, it's easier than ever to get what we want, even if we can't afford it.

The Hidden Danger of Buy Now, Pay Later

__What would you do if you discovered something so valuable—so life-altering—that you gladly gave up everything else just to have it?__

That’s the picture Jesus paints in two brief but powerful parables in Matthew 13. In verse 44, He says:

*“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.”*

And again, in verses 45–46:

*“The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.”*

__Joyful Surrender__

In both parables, something of immense worth is discovered, and the response is total surrender, not with reluctance or fear, but with joy. That joy is the natural overflow of encountering something so good, so worthy, so eternal, that it reshapes every other desire. Once the treasure is found, all other pursuits fade in comparison.

But let’s be honest—in today’s economy, with interest rates rising, inflation persisting, and headlines about layoffs, it doesn’t always feel like we’re standing on treasure. Maybe you’re grasping for financial security. Or lying awake at night, wondering how to make it through the month.

If that’s where you are, you’re not alone. The fear is real, but so is the invitation of Jesus.

__Our Ultimate Treasure Is a Person__

Jesus is saying: There is something more valuable than everything you own. And that “something” is actually someone—Him.

When Christ is your treasure, money loses its power over you. Your peace no longer rises and falls with the market. Your identity isn’t rooted in your paycheck, but in God's unshakable Kingdom.

The apostle Paul discovered this firsthand. In Philippians 3:7–8, he wrote:

*“Whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.”*

Paul had status, education, and influence, but once he met Jesus, he considered them all secondary. He found the pearl and gave up everything to gain it.

The Macedonian believers in 2 Corinthians 8 offer another powerful example. Though living in poverty, Paul says they gave with joy and generosity. Why? Because they had found a greater treasure in Christ.

That’s the paradox of the Kingdom: when you loosen your grip on material things, you’re free to take hold of eternal ones. Giving becomes worship. Loss becomes gain.

__God Sees You__

Still, some days the treasure feels far away. Fear sets in. Anxiety whispers. Jesus understood this, which is why He reassures us in Matthew 10:29–31:

*“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father... Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”*

God sees you. He knows your needs. His care isn’t based on your net worth—it’s based on your worth to *Him*.

That’s the heart behind the 21-day devotional, *[Look at the Sparrows](https://www.faithfi.com/shop/sparrows)*. It was written to meet people right where they are—in the middle of financial fear and anxiety.

Each day helps re-center your heart on God’s promises, His provision, and His presence. Because when you’re in a storm, you don’t just need a budget—you need a Savior. And the good news? He’s near. As Jeremiah 29:13 says:

*“You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.”*

__A New Way to See Money__

Jesus isn’t just part of your financial life—*He is your life*. When He becomes your treasure, money no longer defines you. You begin to hold what you have with open hands. You invest in what truly matters. You trade the stress of accumulation for the peace of contentment. And yes, *joy returns*.

So, if your heart is anxious today, remember the man who found treasure in the field, the merchant who discovered the pearl, and the Savior who invites you to find lasting treasure in Him.

__To go deeper, you can order *[Look at the Sparrows](https://www.faithfi.com/shop/sparrows)* at[ FaithFi.com](https://faithfi.com/). Just click “Shop” to place your order—or consider ordering in bulk for your church or small group.__

What would you do if you discovered something so valuable that you gladly gave up everything else just to have it?

The Treasure That Changes Everything

“There is always some sun around which the planets of our lives turn.” 

Let David Powlison’s imagery settle in. There is always a gravitational pull on something deep inside us. Our hearts are magnets, and there’s always an opposing pole. Always. We were made that way. 

Scripture gets at this with the language of “heart”** (*lebab *in Hebrew; *cardia* in Greek) or sometimes “kidneys” (Hebrew: *kilyah*). “You shall love the Lord your God with all your *heart* (*lebab*). . .” (Deut. 5:6). “My heart (*kilyah*) faints within me!” (Job 19:27). The language points to the deepest part of a person—the pith of the soul. This is the source of our motives. “All of our rational and volitional life,” writes Herman Bavinck, “has its point of origin in the heart and is governed by it” (*Wonderful Works of God*, 3). All rational and volitional life—all that we think and all that we desire. According to Scripture, the heart is the epicenter for everything a person does. 

**Jesus uses the image of a treasure chest.** Every one of our thoughts, words, and actions is a coin pulled from the heart’s coffer. “The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45). 

This is far more practical than we think because it applies to everything we do. One of the most important questions anyone can ask you about anything you do is this: ***Why* are you doing what you’re doing?** That’s a question of motive, a question of volition, a question of the heart. And it’s worth much more than we suppose. 




## **A Motive for Pennies**




Let me show you how. There’s a famous story from Mark’s Gospel called “The Widow’s Offering” (also in Luke 21:1–4). Jesus is at the temple with his disciples, sitting and watching a procession of people putting offerings in a box. Amidst the clangs and clamor, he waits and stares. And, indirectly, he uncovers motive; he sees a human heart in action.

41 And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums. 42 And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny. 43 And he called his disciples to him and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. 44 For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.” (Mark 12:41–44)

**Usually, we jump to *proportions* to interpret what Jesus says.** The woman had little, so what she gave in proportion to what she had was much more than what others gave. But this misses the point. Jesus doesn’t say that her offering was more “for her.” He says simply that she has “put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box.” 

**Her offering was *more*. Period.** 

It was greater, of higher value. To everyone else, this was a poor woman putting down a penny. To Jesus, it was a daughter of God dropping a mountain of gold. She out-gave everyone. How?

**Look at the source of her giving, her *motive*.** Everyone else there was giving out of their abundance. They were saying, “I have much, so I will give something.” But the widow gave out of her poverty. She said, “I have little, so I will give everything.” The logic sounds off, doesn’t it? She would have nothing left after this. Jesus says she gave “all she had to live on.” She opened her impoverished hand and went from deficient to destitute, from little to none. It sounds like financial suicide. Why would she do this?

That’s where the *heart* comes in. Remember the motive question: *why is she doing what she’s doing?* The text doesn’t say directly. But Jesus implies it. **The woman gives everything because she believes—she *actually* believes—that she already has everything . . . because she has *God*.** She has loving, trusting faith in the God who gives. God means all to her. God is the sun around which the planet of her life turns. 

That’s the only way she could do what she did. She truly loved God with *all* her heart (Deut. 6:5). In the pith of her soul, she is so full that she can let go of everything else. What is a penny compared to the God of glory? She trusts not only in God’s care for her but in God’s care for what she has. She knows that God can do more with her money than she can. God can do *more*. So she lets go. 




## **Motive Matters Most**




Many of us get hung up on earning and then investing our money in all the “right places,” but we don’t think about motive nearly enough. We don’t think about the *heart*. We don’t think about the sun around which the planet of our lives turns. **But the heart, to Jesus, is the most important.** 

Think about it: all the people at the temple that day looked like they were doing the same thing. They were all dropping coins in the coffer. From the outside, they were uniform. *But that’s not what matters most to the Son of God*. Like his heavenly Father (1 Sam. 16:7), Jesus looks at the heart. In that moment, he looked at the widow’s heart. He looked at the hearts of the religious leaders. And right now he looks at your heart and mine. What does he see?

**What matters most to God is not *what* you give; it’s *why* you give.** God wants to see that *He* is the sun around which the planet of your life turns. Because if He isn’t, then the only other possibility is that you’re one of the ones who gives “out of your abundance.” Giving out of abundance costs us little because it requires less faith, less heart. How many of the people that day thought twice about what they were giving? How much did the widow think about her own giving? After her fingers released their grip, it was all faith for her, from that moment on. She knew what she was doing. She was *worshiping*—giving all of herself for all of who God is and all he promises to be for us. And Jesus saw it.

Motive is everything to God. The heart is everything. The planet of your life is turning around something right now. What is it? And when the time comes, will you give out of poverty or out of abundance? 






*Pierce Taylor Hibbs (MAR, ThM Westminster Theological Seminary) serves as Senior Writer and Communication Specialist at Westminster Theological Seminary. He is the author of over 20 books, including the Illumination Award-winning titles Struck Down but Not Destroyed, The Great Lie, One with God, The Christ-Light, and [The Book of Giving.](https://https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736341138?) He lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and three kids. Learn more about his work at [piercetaylorhibbs.com](http://piercetaylorhibbs.com) or find him on [Substack](https://piercetaylorhibbs.substack.com).*

The heart of our actions is what matters most to God, and true worship is revealed not in what we give but in why we give—because motive is everything.

Motive is Everything

__*“The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.” –* Proverbs 22:3__

Life is unpredictable. Illness, accidents, or even death can strike without warning. And while we can’t control the future, we *can* prepare for it. Scripture calls us to live wisely, and one of the most practical expressions of that wisdom is planning ahead for life’s most serious emergencies.

Ask yourself:

- What if something serious happened to you or your spouse?
- If you were hospitalized, who would manage the household, pay the bills, or care for your kids?
- If you were to pass away unexpectedly, would your loved ones know how to locate critical documents and make necessary decisions?

In moments of crisis, the last thing your family needs is confusion. That’s why creating a household emergency binder can be one of the most loving and practical things you do.

__What Is an Emergency Binder?__

An emergency binder is a single, organized place for all your essential information. Think of it as a manual for managing your household in your absence. Your binder should include:

- Financial information
- Medical details and prescriptions
- Childcare contacts
- Monthly bills and due dates
- Funeral preferences
- Any other important documentation

Creating this binder may feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by listing out your categories, then focus on just one at a time. Dedicate 30 to 60 minutes a day to gathering the documents and filling in each section. Step by step, you’ll build something of lasting value.

Once your binder is complete, print a physical copy and store it in a visible, secure place, such as a red three-ring binder in a fireproof safe. Also, keep a digital version stored securely in the cloud. Be sure to give access information (safe combinations, passwords) to a few trusted family members.

__A Simple Step of Stewardship__

No one likes to think about worst-case scenarios. But preparing for them is an act of love—an expression of godly stewardship that brings peace, not fear. When the hard moments come, your family will be grateful for the clarity and care you provided in advance.

For an easy way to get started, [Christian Money Solutions](https://www.christianmoneysolutions.com/) offers a pre-designed [Essential Emergency Binder](https://www.christianmoneysolutions.com/essentialemergencybinder), complete with more than 60 pages of templates and instructions. All you have to do is fill in the blanks.

__You don’t need to finish it in one sitting. Just begin. And as you do, remember: this is more than an organizational project. It’s a gift of love, peace, and wisdom to the people who matter most.__

Life is unpredictable. Illness or accidents can strike without warning. How do you prepare for them?

Why Every Household Needs an Emergency Binder

__The Bible contains more than 2,300 verses about money and possessions. That’s a staggering number—so there’s got to be a reason.__

But while the number is accurate, it can also be a bit misleading. Money itself isn’t what’s most important. What truly matters is what money reveals about our hearts.

Let’s unpack why Scripture talks about money so much—and why your financial life is ultimately a spiritual matter.

__Jesus Talked About Money—But Not for the Reasons You Think__

When Jesus spoke about money, He was never just talking about money. He was talking about something deeper—something eternal. His goal wasn’t to teach financial literacy. It was to expose the true condition of our hearts.

God’s Word uses money as a spiritual teaching tool. Why? Because no matter who we are or where we live, money is something we all have to deal with. Whether it’s groceries or giving, saving or spending, money touches every part of our lives.

That’s why financial struggles can feel so personal. Money can stir up stress, create confusion, and ignite conflict—especially in our relationships. But Scripture reminds us that the problem is rarely the money itself. It’s what the money reveals.

In Matthew 6:21, Jesus says:

*“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”*

That’s the heart of the matter—literally. It’s not about how much you make or spend. It’s about what you value.

When we look beneath the numbers, we find a spiritual reality: Money is a mirror. It reflects what we truly trust, desire, and love.

__Money and Marriages: It's About Values, Not Amounts__

Consider how often money shows up in marriage conflicts. It’s frequently cited as one of the leading causes of divorce. But more often than not, the issue isn’t really about the dollars. It’s about values.

One spouse might want to save for the future, while the other wants to enjoy the present. One sees money as a way to bless others; the other sees it as a source of security. Neither view is inherently wrong—they’re just different. But when those differences clash, tension arises.

And in that tension, it’s easy to argue about expenses without ever addressing the deeper, spiritual divide.

__Every Spending Decision Is a Spiritual Decision__

It might seem strange to call a purchase—like a cup of coffee or a pair of shoes—a spiritual decision. But in a way, it is because every financial choice reflects our priorities.

In *Matthew 6:24*, Jesus says:

*“No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve God and money.”*

Jesus is inviting us to examine where our loyalty lies. That doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy what God provides. In fact, Ecclesiastes 3:12–13 affirms that we should:

*“I perceived that there is nothing better for them than to be joyful and to do good… everyone should eat and drink and take pleasure in all his toil—this is God's gift to man.”*

God delights in our joy. He’s not against lattes or leisure—He just wants those things to sit beneath, not above, our love for Him.

__What Do You Do When Values Collide?__

Whether you’re navigating money as an individual or a couple, the first step to peace is recognizing that financial disagreements are opportunities for spiritual growth.

And that growth starts with prayer. As our friend Howard Dayton says:

*“It’s hard to quarrel when you’re praying together.”*

Prayer invites God into the conversation. And as *James 1:5* assures us:

*“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God… and it will be given to him.”*

Through prayer, we find clarity. Through humility, we find unity.

For couples, the next step is open, respectful communication. Talk about your values. Share your hopes. One of you might prioritize saving for retirement, while the other longs to create meaningful family memories through travel. Both desires can honor God—you just need to find common ground.

When needed, a financial advisor—especially a [Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)](https://www.faithfi.com/find)—can help you identify shared goals and build a plan that reflects both wisdom and faith.

__A Path Toward Unity and Growth__

Financial disagreements don’t have to create division. In fact, when addressed with humility and a desire to honor God, they can build trust and draw you closer—not only to each other but to Christ.

So, if you’re wrestling with a financial decision today—or feeling relational strain because of money—don’t walk through it alone.

Invite God into the process. Talk it through with someone you trust. And above all, remember this: __It’s not about the money. God wants your heart.__

__And when your heart is aligned with His, your financial life will begin to reflect the peace, purpose, and priorities of His Kingdom.__

The Bible contains more than 2,300 verses about money and possessions. That’s staggering, so there’s got to be a reason.

It’s Not About the Money

__Summer isn’t far off, and chances are, your kids are already dreaming about that long-awaited vacation. The real question is: Will you be ready for it financially?__

Great family memories don’t have to come with a high price tag. With a bit of intentionality and creativity, you can plan a vacation that’s both memorable and budget-friendly. Here are five tips to help you do just that.

__1. Start Planning Early__

The earlier you start, the more options you’ll have—especially if you're looking to save money. Booking flights and accommodations in advance often leads to better rates and more availability.

Pro tip: Use tools like [Google Flights](https://www.google.com/travel/flights) to explore affordable destinations. Just input your travel dates and click “Explore” or “Fly Anywhere” to find the lowest airfare across the country.

Also, take time to decide what matters most for your trip. Is staying near the beach a must? Would you rather cook your own meals than eat out? Set a clear trip budget and prioritize what matters most to your family.

__2. Find Free (and Fun!) Activities__

Every destination has hidden gems that don’t cost a dime. Search your destination online, along with phrases like “best free things to do” or “free local attractions.”

Many places offer scenic hikes, self-guided tours, free museums or exhibits, and even local festivals or concerts. These can become some of the most memorable parts of your trip—and they won’t touch your wallet.

__3. Involve the Whole Family__

Let your kids in on the planning process. Give each child a mini budget and let them plan a few hours of the trip based on that amount. This teaches practical financial skills and ensures everyone feels involved and valued.

Plus, you may be surprised by what simple experiences are the most fun!

__4. Be Smart About Meals__

Dining out adds up quickly. One way to save big is by staying at a hotel that includes complimentary breakfast. Then pack your own snacks or lunches to cut down on eating out.

Even if you're flying, you can still hit a local grocery store upon arrival. A loaf of bread, peanut butter and jelly, and some fruit and chips can feed the family for a fraction of a restaurant meal.

__5. Set a Daily Spending Limit__

Decide ahead of time how much you want to spend each day—and turn it into a family challenge! See how far you can stretch that amount without going over.

To stay on track, consider using daily cash envelopes, a prepaid card, or a budgeting app like FaithFi. The [FaithFi app](https://www.faithfi.com/manage) helps you track spending in real time and stay aligned with your goals—turning budgeting into a shared family value.

__Family vacations don’t have to mean financial stress. With these five simple strategies, you can enjoy a summer getaway that’s fun, meaningful, and financially wise. Start planning now, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories—all while staying on budget.__

Summer isn’t far off, and chances are, your kids are already dreaming about that long-awaited vacation. Are you ready?

5 Smart Tips for a Budget-Friendly Family Vacation

__*“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich”* (2 Corinthians 8:9).__

This week may feel somber, but it’s actually meant to be filled with hope. This Friday is Good Friday—a day Christians around the world set aside to remember the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. What happened on that cross over 2,000 years ago remains the greatest act of grace in human history.

Let’s reflect on what makes this day so good.

__Why We Call It “Good” Friday__

At first glance, the name “Good Friday” may seem odd. After all, we’re remembering the brutal death of Jesus on a Roman cross. But it’s good—not because the events were painless or cheerful—but because of what Christ accomplished through His suffering.

There’s sorrow in recalling the agony He endured. There’s weight in recognizing that it was our sin that led Him there. But there's also deep gratitude—for the love of the Father who sent His Son, and for the obedience of the Son who gave Himself willingly. Good Friday is good because it was the turning point of human history.

This is the day we remember that Jesus bore the full weight of our sins. He took our place, suffered our punishment, and reconciled us to God. The Cross is not just a tragic event—it’s a triumph of love.

But even as we mourn, we look ahead with anticipation. We know the end of the story: Resurrection Sunday is coming. Jesus’ death wasn’t defeat—it was the gateway to victory. His sacrifice purchased eternal life for all who believe.

__Financial Terms, Eternal Truths__

Here at [FaithFi](https://www.faithfi.com/show), we talk a lot about money—stewardship, budgeting, and giving. But did you know that Scripture often uses financial language to describe spiritual truths?

Words like debt, ransom, redemption, and inheritance fill the pages of the Bible. Why? Because those terms made the gospel accessible to everyday people—then and now.

Consider:

- __Romans 6:23__ – *“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”*
- __Mark 10:45__ – *“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”*
- __1 Corinthians 6:20__ – *“You were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”*

These verses remind us that sin incurred a debt we couldn’t pay. But Jesus paid it—fully.

__“It Is Finished”: What Tetelestai Means__

One of Jesus’s final words from the cross was, *“It is finished.”* In the original Koine Greek, He said [tetelestai (τετέλεσται)](https://bible.org/question/what-does-greek-word-tetelestai-mean). That one word carried profound meaning.

In the ancient world:

- Servants used it to declare a task complete.
- Artists spoke it over a finished masterpiece.
- Priests used it after approving a spotless sacrifice.
- Merchants wrote it on receipts to indicate a debt had been paid in full.

So when Jesus cried out, *“It is finished,”* He was announcing the completion of His mission. The debt of sin was fully canceled. No balance remained.

Here’s the beauty of that moment: Jesus didn’t make a down payment on our salvation—He covered the whole cost. There’s no spiritual tab left open. No merit we must achieve. His grace is sufficient. We don’t live in spiritual deficit—we live in the overflow.

That changes everything.

We’re free from guilt, shame, and striving. Obedience becomes a joyful response—not a burden to gain God’s favor. In Christ, we have everything we need. We follow Him not to earn life but because in Him, we’ve already found it.

__The Goodness of Good Friday__

So, on this Good Friday, as you pause and remember the cross, listen again to Jesus's final words: It is finished. Let those words sink deep into your soul.

The debt is paid. The work is done. Salvation is secure.

You are loved beyond measure and invited into a life of grace, freedom, and eternal hope.

__And that’s why this Friday is so very good.__

This week may feel somber, but it’s actually meant to be filled with hope. Let’s reflect on what makes this day so good.

It Is Finished: Why We Call It “Good” Friday

__Imagine going back in time to evaluate a stock portfolio on Dec. 31, 1999. Over the prior five years (1995-1999), foreign stocks have performed well, nearly doubling in value (+95%). But then you look at your U.S. stocks, which have gained 2.5 times as much (+244%)!__

That huge performance disparity caused many global investors to pile into U.S. tech stocks during the dot-com bubble. Alas, from the dot-com bubble peak in March 2000, performance for these classes flipped back the other way. Over the next 7½ years, U.S. stocks earned a meager +13.5% (total), while foreign stocks were much better, gaining +69%.

Global investors have recently relived a similar, if even more dramatic, setup. Over the past 14 years, U.S. stocks have gained *four times* more than foreign stocks: +493% vs. +114% (13.6% vs. 5.6% annualized). As during the 1990s’ dot-com bubble, the default decision for many global investors has been to increasingly pile into large U.S. growth stocks.

__Catalysts are emerging__

The effect of 14 years of U.S. outperformance on stock valuations has been profound. The average weighted Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio for the MSCI U.S. Index is 26.5. For the MSCI World ex-US index, it’s just 16.1.

However, as SMI has written countless times, valuation is not a helpful timing indicator. Foreign stocks have been cheap for years now. The valuation gap tells us that if/when investors favor foreign stocks again, the reversal could pack a powerful punch. But it doesn’t tell us anything about *when* that is likely to happen.

What factors should we be watching for signs of a reversal between U.S. and foreign stocks? SMI has covered some of this ground before, specifically in the January 2024 article, *[Uncomfortable Regime Shifts](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/uncomfortable-regime-shifts)*. That article explained how the higher inflation environment since COVID has led to rising interest rates. Higher rates make “tangible” businesses more attractive relative to the more “ethereal” tech businesses that thrived during the recent era of ultra-low interest rates. Not coincidentally, the U.S. market is dominated by big tech companies (Magnificent Seven, etc.), while foreign markets are much less heavily weighted toward tech.

That’s a solid over-arching thesis to keep watch on. But as we’ve watched the opening months of the new [Trump 2.0 administration](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/trump-2-0-using-objective-investing-models-to-guide-us-through-anticipated-disruption) with keen interest, other factors have emerged to cause global investors to question their devotion to the “U.S. Exceptionalism” trade that has been the default in recent years.

__New administration policies tipping investor preferences?__

There’s considerable recent evidence that global investors are starting to vote with their feet. February and March have seen significant outflows of U.S. stocks, while foreign stocks are seeing huge inflows. Given the extent and duration of U.S. stock dominance in recent years (see chart below), we’re not willing to say this trend has definitively reversed. But given the massive degree of mean reversion possible after such a long one-sided move, it’s something we’re watching closely.


![](https://soundmindinvesting.com/assets/articles/l3-us-share-world-market-capitalization.png)


Here are a few reasons investors may be inclined to favor foreign stocks.

1. __Fiscal impulses are reversing.__
Over the past five years (since COVID), the U.S. has run enormous deficits, allowing the government to spend at a rate unprecedented outside of past wars or recessions. U.S. deficits of roughly 7% of our GDP have dwarfed the spending of other countries (most of whom have run deficits of 2-3% of their much smaller GDP levels). The net effect of this gusher of U.S. government spending has been much stronger U.S. economic growth than other countries.Suddenly, and somewhat unexpectedly, this is reversing. Much of the attention since President Trump’s inauguration has focused on cutting U.S. government spending. At the same time, tariff and treaty uncertainty has triggered numerous foreign nations to significantly boost their own plans for government spending.Put simply, the U.S. is *reducing* its fiscal spending while the rest of the world is *increasing* theirs. Government spending has a powerful short-term impact on the companies that receive it and their stock prices.
2. __Growth expectations are diverging.__
This is another angle on the prior point. The U.S. avoided a recession when most expected one in 2022-2024. In contrast, Europe and China suffered through recessions and now appear to be emerging out of them. Declining growth here vs. improving growth elsewhere changes the relative attractiveness of high-priced U.S. stocks vs. the relative bargains available overseas.
3. __Re-writing the global economic agreement.__
For many years, the global economy ran on the following rough equation: the U.S. bought everyone else’s stuff (exports), and then the rest of the world recycled many of the dollars used to buy those goods back into U.S. financial assets (stocks and bonds). That’s arguably been a bad deal for U.S. workers, but it’s been great for U.S. asset prices which have boomed.Now, President Trump has clearly stated his intent to rewrite this equation by increasing U.S. manufacturing. This means less U.S. buying of everyone else’s exports...and by logical extension, less foreign buying of U.S. financial assets.
4. __Interest rate differentials are closing.__
Interest rates are impacted by many factors, but one of the biggest is growth expectations. So it’s not surprising that after several years of very low growth expectations in major economies like Europe and Japan (plus China fighting through their own 2008-type financial crisis the past several years), improving foreign growth prospects are causing foreign interest rates to finally rise from the extreme lows of the past decade.More competitive rates at home make foreign investors incrementally more inclined to bring their capital home, rather than seeking higher yields in U.S. assets, including U.S. Treasuries. These global capital flows matter to national economies (money flowing *in* to a country creates a virtuous cycle for business, money flowing *out* tends to create challenges). And these flows matter a lot to financial markets.
5. __National pride.__
It’s easy to forget that while U.S. financial markets are disproportionately large relative to U.S. population or the U.S. share of global economic activity, the rest of the world combined isn’t far behind. International money managers control vast amounts of capital, assets that could potentially be on the move as the U.S. appears to become a less reliably friendly place for global capital.Opinions vary widely on some of the international decisions being taken by the Trump Administration. But even if they are necessary and appropriate, they clearly are triggering other nations to perceive them along a sliding scale ranging from pulling back from long-time friendships (Europe) to outright economic warfare and threats (Canadians are mad!). In addition to the purely logical points listed here, it wouldn’t be shocking to see emotions play a role in some foreign investors choosing to bring their savings back home
6. __Currency revaluation.__
Currency fluctuations are complicated, but here’s a high-level overview. When the dollar is *rising* in value relative to foreign currencies, foreign investors get a secondary benefit by owning U.S. stocks, as dollar profits are more valuable when converted back into their native currencies. Meanwhile, U.S. investors see the opposite effect from their own holdings of foreign stocks — foreign profits are less valuable because it takes more of them when being converted into stronger dollars.This dynamic flips when the dollar is *falling* relative to foreign currencies — foreign investors become relatively less enthused by U.S. returns, while U.S. investors get a boost from foreign stock returns.Many factors impact the value of currencies, so we don’t want to oversimplify here. But generally speaking, lower U.S. growth should lead to lower interest rates. Higher foreign economic growth should lead to higher foreign interest rates. These trends appear to be contributing to the dollar’s roughly -6% decline in value relative to foreign currencies since peaking in early January. The dollar decline has provided a recent tailwind to U.S. investors owning foreign stocks while potentially incentivizing foreign investors to reduce their holdings of U.S. stocks.
### 
__Broader options are a good thing for SMI strategies__

The factors we’ve reviewed here help explain why President Trump and Treasury Secretary Bessent keep repeating the idea that an adjustment period is required for the U.S. economy and that some pain may be ahead for U.S. asset prices. Starting points matter a lot in investing, and the reality is U.S. markets began 2025 with some of the highest valuations ever. In contrast, many foreign markets have very attractive valuations after being largely ignored for years.

Even if a rebalancing between U.S. and foreign markets is underway, it’s difficult to know whether this will be a rapid repricing vs. a trend that unfolds gradually. Either way, the SMI strategies will monitor this via our trend and momentum processes. Those processes led DAA into foreign stocks at the end of January, which has helped blunt the recent correction in U.S. stocks. (DAA’s foreign stock holding was up +11.2% year-to-date through March 25, while the S&P 500 was down -1.5%.) This month, [Stock Upgrading](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/stock-upgrading-new-fund-recommendations-for-april-2025) is buying a new foreign stock fund for the first time since December 2023.

Importantly, this isn’t the first time SMI has navigated a potentially significant trend shift away from large U.S. stocks and into foreign stocks. The years following the dot-com bubble saw huge outflows from large U.S. growth stocks that went into other parts of the market, including foreign stocks. Those years were some of SMI’s *strongest relative performance years ever*.

__The simple fact is that it’s difficult for active management to outperform when the biggest U.S. growth stocks are beating every other investment type by a wide margin. In contrast, active management tends to thrive when market activity broadens out to include foreign, small company, and value-oriented stocks. It’s too early to say definitively the trends have shifted in this direction, but the recent pickup in foreign stock returns has certainly grabbed our attention.__

Since 1990, do-it-yourself Christian investors have relied on SMI for proven strategies and trustworthy guidance.

Sound Mind Investing

Investing

Have stocks shifted in a different Direction? Recent pickup in foreign returns has certainly grabbed our attention.

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