__You are on Amazon, looking for a book your best friend recommended. Before you can type the book’s title in the search engine, you see an item on the homepage that Amazon suggests you purchase. Within fifteen seconds, you have purchased the suggested item.__

Impulse buying is the sudden purchase of an item for which you did not plan. They are often mindless purchases. Of course, the concept of impulse buying is not new. Believe it or not, impulse purchases actually predate Amazon Prime.

These sudden purchases can wreak havoc on our finances and create significant frustration and regret. If you are married, it can also lead to relational tension. And as a steward of God’s resources, impulse buying can reduce our ability to live and give generously. If you struggle with impulse buying, here are some ideas to reduce the temptation to “buy now.”

__1. Acknowledge that impulse buying is a problem.__

Admitting that impulse buying is an issue is crucial. This self-awareness allows you to understand the impact of your habits on your finances, relationships, and spiritual life. Reflect on past purchases that you made on a whim and consider how they made you feel afterward. Did they bring lasting joy or satisfaction, or did they lead to regret and financial strain?

__2. Pay attention to the triggers.__

Acknowledging the problem also involves recognizing the triggers and patterns in your behavior. You might notice that you tend to shop impulsively when you’re feeling emotional or stressed. Is it at night when you are tired? Is it at work when you are bored? Is it when you are sad? Is it right after you finish looking at Facebook? Is it when you go to the grocery store on an empty stomach?

Understanding these triggers can help you anticipate and manage them more effectively. It's also important to accept that impulse buying can be influenced by external factors such as marketing tactics and social pressure, and that it’s not solely a personal failing.

Identify when you are most likely to make impulse purchases.

__3. Have a Blueprint for Mission.__

A budget is a plan to accomplish God’s purposes in your finances. A budget helps you reach your financial goals. It also allows money to flow toward things you value and reduce spending on things that mean little to you. Because of this, we refer to the budget as your Blueprint for Mission.

__4. Create a 24-hour (or 48-hour) rule.__

Before making any non-essential purchase, commit to waiting 24 or 48 hours. This cooling-off period helps you distinguish between a genuine need and a fleeting desire. Often, you’ll find that the urge to buy fades with time.

__5. Calculate how much time a purchase will cost you.__

Think about your income in terms of hours worked rather than dollars earned. For example, if you make $20 per hour and you’re eyeing a $100 gadget, that purchase represents five hours of work. This perspective can help you evaluate if the purchase is worth the amount of time you spent earning the money.

__6. Keep track of all purchases for a week and calculate how much unplanned money you spend.__

This exercise can be eye-opening. Write down everything you buy and total the amount spent on unplanned purchases. Seeing the numbers in black and white can motivate you to be more mindful about your spending habits.

__7. Consider your opportunity cost.__

When you spend money on impulse purchases, that money is no longer available for other things. What are you giving up by making these unplanned buys? Maybe it’s a dream vacation, a new car, or a more comfortable retirement. Understanding what you’re sacrificing can help curb impulse spending.

__8. Have a plan to combat temptation.__

Develop strategies to resist the urge to buy. This could include unsubscribing from marketing emails, avoiding certain stores, or setting spending limits on your credit cards. You could also enlist the help of a trusted friend or family member to hold you accountable.

__9. Consider the deeper cause of the struggle.__

Sometimes, impulse buying is a symptom of a deeper issue. Are you using shopping to cope with stress, boredom, or loneliness? Are you trying to fill a void with these purchases that only God can fill? Money management reflects heart management.

By implementing these strategies, you can take control of your spending habits, reduce financial stress, and become a better steward of God’s resources.

*[Image](https://kajabi-storefronts-production.kajabi-cdn.com/kajabi-storefronts-production/file-uploads/blogs/2147689326/images/c27a336-2a55-f2e-255-02a0ac8ba768_1.jpg) used with permission.*

You were meant for more. Your money was meant for more. You and your money are meant for an exciting, adventurous, and satisfying purpose. You were designed to live and give generously. And deep inside you know this and want this.

Christian Money Solutions

Debt

Impulse buying is the sudden purchase of an item for which you did not plan.  Here are some ideas to  help this mindset.

9 Ideas to Reduce the Temptation to “Buy Now”

Gifts obviously benefit the recipient. The church continues its ministry, the hungry are fed, and missionaries are sent. But from God’s point of view generosity is more important for the giver than the recipient. *“Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’”* ([Acts 20:35](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+20&version=NIV)).

__1. AN INCREASE IN INTIMACY__

Above all else, giving draws our heart to Christ. [Matthew 6:21](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew+6&version=NIV) says, *“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”* When you give to Christ and His work as a way of expressing your love for Him, it draws your heart closer to Him. And nothing on this planet is more important that knowing Jesus well.

__2. AN INCREASE IN CHARACTER__

Our heavenly Father wants us to conform to the image of His Son. The character of Christ is that of an unselfish giver. Unfortunately, humans are selfish by nature. One way we become conformed to Christ is by regular giving. Someone once said, “Giving is not God’s way of raising money; it is God’s way of raising people into the likeness of His Son.”

__3. AN INCREASE IN HEAVEN__

[Matthew 6:20](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew+6&version=NIV) reads, *“Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal.” *The Lord tells us that heaven has its own “First National Bank,” where we can invest for eternity.

Paul wrote, *“Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account”* ([Philippians 4:17](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=philippians+4&version=NIV)). Each of us has an account in heaven that we will be able to enjoy for eternity. And although we “can’t take it with us when we die,” we can make deposits to our heavenly account before we die.

__4. AN INCREASE ON EARTH__

Many people have a hard time believing that giving can result in material blessings flowing back to the giver. However, we encounter that very principle in the pages of Scripture. Consider [Proverbs 11:24-25](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=proverbs+11&version=NIV): *“There is one who scatters, and yet increases all the more, and there is one who withholds what is justly due, and yet it results only in want. The generous man will be prosperous, and he who waters will himself be watered.”*

One reason the Lord reveals that we can anticipate such an increase is because He wants us to recognize that He is behind it. God has chosen to be invisible, but He wants us to experience His reality.

__When we give, we should do so with a sense of expectation—anticipating an increase from the Lord even though we have no idea how or when He may choose to provide it. Our experience has shown Him to be very creative! Remember, givers experience the advantages of giving only when they give cheerfully and with love—not when the motive is just to get.__

__[Image](https://compassfinancialministry.org/4-reasons-it-is-more-blessed-to-give-than-receive/)__ used with permission

Compass helps people worldwide to know Christ more intimately in one of the most personal arenas of life, finances.

Compass Financial

Money Topics

Gifts obviously benefit the recipient. But from God’s point of view generosity is more important for the giver.

4 Reasons It Is More Blessed to Give Than Receive

__Is Jesus Lord of *all* your affairs, or is there still one part of your life where you insist on being “in charge?”__

That one area, all too often, is money. We all have to make a decision. Will we live in God’s economy or Man's? This is sometimes described as being *“in the world”* or *“of the world.”*

__Being "In the World" but Not "Of the World"__

Oswald Chambers said our Lord did not teach detachment from other things: He taught attachment to Himself. Jesus Christ was not a recluse. He did not cut himself off from society. He was amazingly in and out among the ordinary things of life, but He was disconnected fundamentally from it all. He was not aloof but lived according to His Kingdom's values, not the world’s.

Larry Burkett wrote that only some Christians seem to understand the devastation generated through the misuse of money.


Some have accepted God's financial plan (God's economy) as their own and stand out like giants among their brothers. Still, more commonly, the Christian who withholds this area of his life from God struggles within the world’s financial system (man's economy).


The same frustrations, worries, and anxieties that characterize non-believers are common to many, perhaps most, Christians. What drives peoples’ actions in man's economy?

The contrasts between the two economies are found in Psalm 4:6-8, *“Why is everyone hungry for more? ‘More, more,’ they say. ‘More, more.’ I have God’s more-than-enough, More joy in one ordinary day Than they get in all their shopping sprees. At day’s end I’m ready for sound sleep, For you, God, have put my life back together.”* (The Message)

__Key Differences Between God’s Economy and Man’s Economy__

A list of the questions can help reveal the difference between God's and man's economies. The first is “Who is the master?” In God’s economy, He is the master, of course, but in man's economy, *money* is the master. It doesn’t matter how much you have; money controls you.

If God is the master, then “What is the source of income?” Of course, God is the source, but if you live in man's economy, you’ll be tempted to say, “*I* earned it.” The fact is God provides everything, even our ability to earn money. Deuteronomy 8:18 says, *“But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.”*

Another question we must answer is, “Why do we have wealth in the first place?” Man's economy says we have wealth to live independently and do not need God. In God’s economy, wealth—abundance more than we need—is to help others. If some Christians did not have a surplus, nothing would be available for God’s Kingdom to help others and show Christ's love.

__The Role of Money__

A follow-up question is, “What is the real purpose of money?” Money is no different than anything else in the universe. It’s there to fulfill God’s purposes. It’s just one part of His plan, but in man's economy, we think money is there to insulate us from the world’s problems. In man's economy, we’re constantly afraid that something is about to go wrong, and we can never have enough money to fix it.

If that’s the role of money, what then is our role? In God’s economy, our role is to be trustworthy stewards of the wealth he gives us temporarily. We’re simply to steward or manage those resources wisely. He has given us more than 2300 Bible verses on money and possessions to help us do that. He expects us to learn them and follow them.

That’s quite a bit different from mankind’s economy. If you live there, your role is to seek personal fulfillment and happiness. Ironically, we’ll never achieve that if we’re living in man's economy. Only God provides true fulfillment and joy.

Another question is, What are my goals? If you’re living in God’s economy, your goal is simple: to follow God’s will. You need to be in regular prayer with him to discern His will. A simple version is, “Lord, what would you have me do?”

It’s the opposite if you’re living in man's economy. There, your goal is to benefit yourself. It’s all about *your* will, not God’s will.

Next, ask yourself how you’re doing. Defining success is straightforward if you’re living in God’s economy. It’s *faithfulness.* That means you only have to follow God’s financial principles. That’s your part. God is responsible for the outcome. You just need to be faithful.

In man's economy, you might have many achievements that mark your success. It’s not wrong to have financial goals and celebrate when you achieve one, but not for its own sake. If you fail to accomplish a goal in man's economy, you’ll probably feel like a failure. There, *you* are responsible for the results. There’s not much joy in that!

__What Drives Us?__

You might also then ask about rewards at the end of life. How will you manage the return on your life? Here, the difference is *enormous.* In God’s economy, you have eternal rewards. We all want to hear, *“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!”* - Matthew 25:23

Of course, in man's economy, you can measure your return on life by all the earthly gains you’ve made, mainly your net worth—none of which you can take with you.

You should also ask, What is the source of my significance? We all want to feel good about ourselves. In God’s economy, it’s your identity as a child of God. You are adopted into God’s family, and that can’t be taken away from you. In man's economy, you view your significance or worth as your work, riches, and power. You are only what you do or have. There's not a lot of joy there, either.

You could ask, What makes me get up in the morning? What drives me?” In God’s economy, it’s His glory and fame. In man's economy, it’s your significance and security.

Finally, ask yourself, How is my emotional state determined? In man's economy, your emotional state depends on circumstances. If things don’t go well financially, you’ll probably experience anxiety and depression. Nobody wants that.

Here, we see that the benefit of living in God’s economy is *priceless*. You are content in all circumstances. You understand that God is in charge of results. He has promised to provide, and He always fulfills His promises. We all have concerns, but deep-seated worry has no place in God’s economy.


__Have you decided in which economy you’ll choose to live?__

You can also __[listen](https://www.faithfi.com/search?q=God%E2%80%99s%20Economy%20vs.%20Man%27s%20Economy&videos=true&articles=true&podcasts=true&posts=true&groups=true&events=true&support=true)__ the related podcast on this topic.

FaithFi

Articles

Is Jesus Lord of all your affairs, or is there still one part of your life where you insist on being “in charge?”

God’s Economy vs. Man's Economy

__If your car insurance seems a lot more expensive now than it was a few years ago, that’s because it is. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average insurance premium for city drivers is more than 50% higher today than in January 2021.__

You can’t undo all of that increase, but you may be able to roll back some of it — if you’re willing to ask for discounts, tweak your coverage, modify your driving habits, and adopt new technology. Of course, you can also try to find a better deal from a different carrier. The savings could amount to several hundred dollars a year.

__Here are details about several options to help you get the insurance you need at the best possible price.__

- __Ask for every possible discount.__Most insurance companies offer price cuts if you meet certain criteria. You may already receive some of these discounts but double-check to be sure.For example, you may qualify for a “good driver” discount if you have no recent accidents or traffic violations. If you have a short commute or work from home, a “low mileage” discount may be available. Young drivers with good grades can get a “good student” discount.If you insure multiple vehicles, you may be eligible for a “multi-car” discount. If you have car insurance and a homeowner’s insurance with the same company, there is probably a “multi-policy” discount.  Some carriers offer “loyalty” discounts for long-time customers.In addition, most insurance companies offer discounts if a car is equipped with anti-theft technology and newer safety features (such as blind spot detection and automatic emergency braking).Almost all carriers offer a discount for customers who pay up front rather than in monthly installments. You may also get a discount if premiums are auto-drafted from your bank account.
- __Increase your deductibles.__
A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket on an insurance claim. For example, if you’re insured for a loss of $10,000 and have a $500 deductible, the insurance company will “deduct” $500 from the settlement and pay $9,500. Increasing your deductible(s) will lower your premiums because the insurance company assumes less financial risk, and you assume more.Auto insurance policies typically have separate deductibles for collision coverage (for accident damage) and comprehensive coverage (loss caused by theft, vandalism, storms, etc.). According to the Insurance Information Institute, an industry-backed organization, increasing a deductible from $500 to $1,000 can reduce an annual premium by about 20 to 25% on average.(Deductibles don’t come into play with “liability” coverage, which covers medical expenses and property damage if you are at fault in an accident. States typically mandate a certain amount of liability coverage.)
- __Don’t pay for what you don’t need.__
If you drive an older car, you may want to drop collision coverage entirely since the car’s value may not justify the premium. The general rule is that if the premium is more than 10% of the car’s value, maintaining collision coverage isn’t worth it. (You could also drop comprehensive coverage for an older car, although it can come in handy if a tree falls on your car or a rock cracks your windshield!)
- __Take driver’s ed.__
Even if you’ve been driving for decades, completing a defensive driving course could result in a multi-year discount on your car insurance, depending on the insurance carrier and, in some cases, your age. (Some companies offer special discounts for 55+ drivers who take a course.) Before signing up, be sure your carrier approves the course. Also, weigh the course cost and the time involved against what you could save. Typically, such courses range from $25 to $100 and require an investment of 4-12 hours (either online or in person).
- __Park in a garage.__
You may dread cleaning out your garage, but taking on that chore could cut your insurance bill. Here’s why: Parking your car in your garage — rather than in the driveway or street— makes it less likely to be vandalized or stolen. Also, a car parked on the street could be hit by a passing vehicle. So, if you have a garage, park in it — and let your carrier know.
- __Sign up for monitoring.__
(You can ignore this one if you don’t want an insurance company tracking your movements.) Some companies now offer a discount if you allow your driving habits to be monitored via a smartphone app or a “black box” device installed in your car. The tracking device can verify if you’re a safe driver (avoiding excessive speeds and hard braking, for example). The result could be a reduction in your premium. (Conversely, if the device data suggests you are an unsafe driver, you could see your premium increase.)
- __Pay by the mile.__
Monitoring devices can track your mileage too, so some insurance companies now offer premiums based on the actual amount of driving you do, rather than a fixed amount. If the “pay as you drive” approach interests you, ask if your carrier offers that option.
- __Comparison shop.__
If you’ve explored savings opportunities with your current insurance company but are still unsatisfied, you may find that it pays to shop around. Each auto insurance company has its own method for calculating rates, so the cost of virtually identical coverage can vary significantly from one carrier to another.

Recent research by [Bankrate.com](http://bankrate.com/) found that average rates offered by the least expensive major carrier (for a full-coverage policy) were about 40% lower than at the most expensive large carrier. Of course, “your mileage may vary.” Much depends on your driving habits, what kind of vehicle you own, and where you live.

To shop effectively, get quotes from at least three carriers, using identical coverage amounts, liability limits, and deductibles. Also, pay attention to the coverage period. Some companies may offer a six-month quote, while others provide a quote for an entire year of coverage. (Keep in mind that if you choose a company offering a six-month quote, your rates could go up at the end of that period.)

To request a quote, visit an insurance company’s website or contact one of the company’s local agents, if available. Alternatively, work with an *independent* insurance agent who doesn’t represent a single carrier. An independent agent can access quotes from several companies and help you weigh the options. A third approach is to use an insurance-comparison website such as [policygenius.com](https://policygenius.com/) or [valuepenguin.com](https://valuepenguin.com/).

Remember, however, that the lowest-priced policy may not always be the best choice. If you ever have to make a claim, you’ll want to deal with a carrier with a solid reputation for customer service. (See NerdWallet’s [auto-insurance reviews](https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/insurance/auto-insurance-reviews). )

__Be an inflation fighter__

__Inflation is accelerating again, putting additional strain on household budgets. Fortunately, you can restrain at least some of the rising costs with a little effort. Your car insurance is one area where you may be able to tap the brakes.__

__[Image](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/getting-the-right-auto-insurance-coverage-at-the-right-price)__ used with permission

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

Sound Mind Investing

Personal Finance

If your car insurance seems a lot more expensive now than it was a few years ago, that’s because it is.

Getting the Right Auto Insurance Coverage at the Right Price

__The Puritan poet Anne Bradstreet once wrote, “Wisdom without an inheritance is better than an inheritance without wisdom.”__

As Baby Boomers age, it’s estimated they’ll leave a tidal wave of wealth to their heirs, perhaps as much as [$68 trillion](https://www.newsweek.com/boomers-millennials-transfer-wealth-future-1795099) by 2030. But is the next generation ready for that wealth? 

It’s evident that Anne Bradstreet read her Bible back in the 17th century. She was no doubt inspired by Ecclesiastes 7:11-12. It reads, *"Wisdom is good with an inheritance, an advantage to those who see the sun. For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it."*

While Boomers are on the verge of making the greatest wealth transfer in history, research shows they’re not preparing the next generation to manage that inheritance.

The investment giant Edward Jones recently published a [study](https://www.edwardjones.com/us-en/why-edward-jones/news-media/press-releases/great-wealth-transfer-research) on the issue. It found that half of all Americans, or 48%, plan to leave an inheritance. Half will leave money and property to their children only, and 36% will leave assets to their children and grandchildren.

That much is good, but the next set of numbers is troubling. The study also found that only 27% of Americans have talked about wealth transfer with their heirs-to-be, and another 35% actually said they don’t plan to.

That will leave millions of millennials and gen-Z-ers in the dark about the assets they’ll inherit and many without the wisdom required to manage them. Experts say it’s more important than ever for families to discuss wealth transfer and to seek professional guidance when necessary.

__Other factors come into play as well. While generational wealth transfer as a whole will be the highest ever, some future heirs may not receive as much as they expect.__

That’s mainly because people are living longer. Boomers may consume more of the assets they’ve saved up than previous generations. That’s due in large part to the ever-increasing cost of health care.

This is likely to affect how assets are passed along, and in fact, that same study found four different ways this may happen.

The first is ”traditional giving.” That’s when parents simply pass along their assets to children, including cash, stocks, and real estate. Children need to ensure that their parents are utilizing a sufficient amount of their assets to maintain a healthy lifestyle. In contrast, parents must start talking to their adult kids about transferring those assets.

__Another approach the study uncovered could be called “giving while living.” This is when the older generation helps the younger by paying for education, helping to purchase a home, and maybe even paying for vacations.__ The younger generation may wonder if there will be anything left to inherit and whether they’ll have to support their parents financially in retirement. Having an early conversation about assets can alleviate those concerns.

__Another form of wealth transfer may be the “generational skip.”__ Boomers may elect to give their assets directly to grandchildren to help with education, to start a business, or to set up investment accounts. Here at FaithFi, we get many calls from folks wanting advice on how to help their grandchildren get started in the world.

The Edward Jones study also found that one out of four respondents believes their grandchildren will be better stewards than their children. When that happens, it’s critical to have a money conversation with children who are skipped over to avoid damaged relationships.

Finally, some millennials and gen Z-ers may find that there’s nothing left to inherit. Longer living spans may force the older generation to use up their assets, leaving little or nothing for the next generation. It’s generally advised that retirees draw down only 4% a year from retirement assets to safeguard the principal of their investments, but for some retirees, that may not be possible.

__What’s the solution?__ Obviously, Boomers need to start talking to their adult children about wealth transfer. They must pass along the wisdom they’ve gained over the years that enabled them to acquire and keep wealth.

Family conferences are great for this. If you feel you need help with this, you can bring in a financial advisor to “emcee” the discussion. We recommend getting one with the [Certified Kingdom Advisor__®](https://www.faithfi.com/find)__ designation. One conference probably won’t be enough because things change over time.

__The goal is to prepare your kids to be faithful stewards of whatever is left to them. They need to understand that God owns everything, and they’re expected to manage an inheritance wisely. They’re expected to provide for their families and cheerfully give back to God. Teaching them how is the greatest inheritance you can leave them.__

You can also __[listen](https://www.faithfi.com/search?q=Talking%20Inheritance&videos=true&articles=true&podcasts=true&posts=true&groups=true&events=true&support=true)__ the related podcast on this topic.

Boomers are on the verge of making the greatest wealth transfer in history, but is the next generation being prepared?

Talking Inheritance

__One of the most important financial institutions in your life is your bank or credit union. It is the conduit for most of your financial transactions, receiving your paychecks, facilitating payment of your expenses and bills, and more. So, it’s important to choose your bank partner well.__

Whether you’re actively looking for a new bank or not, read through the following suggestions. It might be that it’s time make a change. If so, doing that is not as difficult as you may assume. Here’s what to look for.

- __The right products and services.__ What do you need in a bank? Just a checking account? Most should have that. What about a savings account, with the option for a higher-rate money market account? If you have kids, does the bank offer accounts designed with their unique needs in mind? Are you looking for a credit card? Will you need a home or car loan sometime in the near future?

Think about your needs and choose a bank partner that offers the products and services that will best meet those needs.

- __Low minimums and costs.__ One benefit to look for in a bank partner is ease of use. That means your accounts should be simple to manage, with low minimum required balances and low or no fees. So, find out what the bank you’re considering requires and charges. What are the minimums for opening a checking or savings account, and what ongoing minimum balance requirements are in place? Are there any fees involved in opening accounts? How much does the bank charge if your balance should happen to slip below what’s required?

If you’re in the market for a loan, does the bank offer favorable rates?

- __ROI.__ Along with low or no fees, how much does the bank *pay* in interest on money kept in its savings accounts? Does it offer high-interest CDs? Does it pay interest on checking accounts? Is it offering any incentives for opening a new account?
- __Convenience.__ For many people, convenience is king. If that’s you, does the bank you’re considering offer online banking, with mobile deposits and online bill-pay? Is its app intuitive and easy to use? If you like to use ATMs, how many does the bank have and where are they located?
- __Compatibility.__ All of the above are fairly normal criteria for choosing a bank partner. It makes sense to look into a bank’s products and services, its fees, and interest rates. What isn’t so normal—and yet, *is* so important—is to see if the bank you’re considering is one you can feel good about doing business with.

Here’s a suggestion: Do an internet search on the name of the bank you’re considering and the word “fine.” See what comes up. Has the bank been penalized for running afoul of any financial industry rules or regulations? Has it been found to have done anything illegal? You may be surprised to see how common this is.

__It will give you added satisfaction and peace of mind to do business with a bank that operates with honesty and integrity.__


Partner with an institution that enables you to bank with your Christian values! Unlock exceptional growth with CCCU’s Harvest Savings account! Earn a remarkable 5.00% APY* interest rate while supporting the expansion of churches and ministries with every deposit. Plus, maximize your earnings by bundling a Harvest Savings account with a Harvest Checking account at 4.00% APY**, and enjoy the convenience of managing both accounts in one place. __[Click this link](https://www.mycccu.com/personal/savings/harvest-savings/)__ to learn more!

This article should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. You may wish to consult a tax or financial advisor about your individual financial situation.

Each account is insured up to $250,000. By members' choice, this institution is not federally insured.

__[Image](https://www.mycccu.com/resource-center/blogs/matt-bell-choosing-the-right-banking-partner-a-helpful-guide/)__ used with permission

One of the most important financial institutions in your life is your bank or credit union.  Here’s what to look for.

Choosing the Right Banking Partner: A Helpful Guide

__Many first-time homebuyers are so focused on saving up for their down payment and closing costs that they forget that there are also costs that come with getting the stuff from your old home to your new home.__

Whether you're moving down the block, from the city to the suburbs (or vice versa) or going all the way across the country, moving costs can add up quickly. Start factoring in these costs ahead of time and get ahead of the curve to make your transition easier without breaking the bank with last-minute movers — and without paying to move a lot of stuff, you don't really need in your new place anyway.

Let's get started.


![](https://movement.com/getmedia/9f15d1c3-e997-4593-9aa9-0e381ea665eb/Pull-Quote.jpg)

__Why should I save up for moving costs?__

How far you're moving can be one of the biggest expenses when it comes to moving costs. Moving across town will likely take a few brawny guys and a truck, as they can make multiple trips if necessary. Moving cross-country takes logistics, multiple crews and a whole lot of fuel.

The cost of a move is also dependent on how much stuff you're moving. If you're single, you probably have a lot less to move than a married couple or a family. Less stuff = lower costs. Likewise, if you're moving from an apartment to a home, you probably have less than someone moving from one home to another. Especially since you may have accumulated more items than you thought if you have a garage, basement and attic in your old home. So keep that in mind when you start to untangle and estimate potential moving expenses.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when creating a budget to cover your move:

__Supplies__. Sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape. All these things add up.

- *TIP: check Craigslist or Facebook for people who have recently moved and might be giving away their moving boxes. They can be expensive, but they're typically tossed out after a single use. You'll be saving the planet and your pocketbook.*

__Cleanouts.__ You'll want to do a clean sweep of your prior home — especially if you're a renter — or you may be charged a fee.

- *TIP: Do it yourself if you can. Or hire a cleaning service to handle the dirty work for you. Your out-of-pocket costs will certainly be less than a landlord will change you.*

__Movers.__ If you're feeling up to it, rent a van and get some friends to help you move (consider offering some pizza or refreshments to soften the deal). But if that’s not possible, you may have to spring for movers.

- *TIP: Save your back. Injuries happen more than you care to know when moving heavy furniture and appliances. Be smart and hire professionals. And make sure they are insured!*

__Packers.__ There’s no shame in having a moving company pack your things for you. It may cost a little more to add on a packing service, but it's so worth it.

- *TIP: Before packers descend on your home, give yourself plenty of time to weed out the stuff you no longer need. There's nothing worse than getting to your new home and realizing you have too much stuff you don't need, like or have room for. Then, you have to pack it all up again to donate or dispose of.*
## 
__What costs can I expect?__

__Packing Costs__

The cost to pack a home, according to [Home Advisor](https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/storage-and-organization/packing-unpacking-service/), depends on the size of the home. But typical ranges — including materials and labor to packing boxes and furniture — are from $280 to $2,200, with $1,000 being the average. Hiring a mover to pack and unpack runs from $380 to $3,600.

__Moving Costs__

Reaching out to a reputable moving company is one of the best calls you can make to help reduce the stress of moving. You might be wondering, "How much does it cost to move?" According to [moving.com](https://movement.com/blog/2024/06/moving.com) (and based on a 2-3 bedroom move of approximately 7,500 pounds), local moves average out to about $1,250. The average cost of a long-distance move (about 1000 miles) is $4,890.

__Moving Fees__

If you're moving into (or out of) a condo or apartment building, you might be charged a moving service fee. This is to cover the use of a freight elevator or make up for inconveniences to other tenants by decommissioning a regular elevator for a short time. You may even have to pay for a superintendent to supervise the move or be required to move out/in on certain days of the week. Check with your buildings before arranging movers.

__Weekend Rates__

The specific date you choose to make your move can affect the costs dramatically. For example, a move during peak season or a weekend move on or near the end of a month — or any weekend, for that matter — tends to cost much more than a weekday, off-season move. From our experience, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays can be the cheapest.

__Our big pre-move tip: Purge your unnecessary belongings__

If you're like most Americans, you have closets and drawers full of stuff you haven't used in a long, long time. And the thought of boxing it all up and moving it all can be overwhelming. So, why not use the months before your move to declutter? Having a yard sale — either in your own yard or garage or digitally — can be profitable and great fun, but you need to figure out WHAT you will sell first.

There are decluttering services you can hire, but you can always do it yourself! Need a little help? We're stealing decluttering tips from best-selling authors and organizing guru Marie Kondo.

Marie has six basic rules. To purge successfully, you must follow the six rules in order.

1. __Commit yourself to tidying up.__ This may seem simple, and it is. Set your mind to it. Do a little every day. Little by little. Don't give up. Take breaks if you need to.
2. __Imagine your ideal lifestyle.__ Write down what you want your life to look like moving forwards. Consider what matters most.
3. __Finish discarding first.__ Go through older items before sifting through the things you love.
4. __Tidy by category, not by location.__ Do your purging by category, not by room. Start with clothing and move on to books, paper, miscellaneous items and sentimental items.
5. __Follow the proper order.__ Don't veer off the course. You'll be tempted to go on to other categories while finishing one. Don't! Do your best to finish one by one.
6. __Ask yourself if it sparks joy.__ After removing unnecessary things, pull out the essentials and ask, *"Does this produce joy?"* If you don't get pleasure from it, get rid of it.

Here are some extra tips to help relieve your stress around moving:

7. __Plan out your packing and moving schedule:__ Don’t be afraid to lay out the process ahead of you; get a notebook and even write it down. This can help keep the process organized and structured.
8. __Transfer your utilities:__ With all the hustle and bustle of moving, don’t forget to transfer your utilities. This way, you can make sure you get your final bill that aligns with your move-out date and even get your utilities set up at your new home.
9. __Change your mailing address:__ Don’t forget about your mail, too! You can easily change your mailing address online on [USPS’s website](https://www.usps.com/manage/forward.htm). Usually, your mail will be forwarded within three business days of your request, but it can also take up to two weeks. If your move is coming up fast, it may be worth going into your local post office to get the address changed.
10. __Do a final lap around your home:__ It’s always smart to check one more time around the house to make sure everything is packed up and ready to go to your new home. Check all the drawers and closets so you don’t leave any valuables behind.

__Take control of your moving costs!__

__Unless you are free of possessions, moving to a new home will carry some sort of cost. Deciding what you're willing to spend money on — and what you're not willing to spend it on — will help you estimate *and optimize* your family's moving costs. Budgeting to cover these costs is the key to managing a stress-free move.__

__~~~~~~~__

*About Movement Mortgage, LLC (“Movement”)

Movement is not just a mortgage company – they’re an Impact Lender and force for positive change. With more than 4,000 teammates across all 50 states, they reinvest the majority of our profits back into the communities they serve. Movement is the 10th ranked top-producing residential mortgage company in the U.S., funding more than $20 billion in residential mortgages annually. The company has contributed nearly $400 million to the Movement Foundation since 2012, funding the Movement Schools network, affordable housing projects and global outreach efforts. For more information on Movement and Impact Lending, visit movement.com/impactreport .*

__[Legal Information](https://movement.com/legal) __

MOVEMENT MORTGAGE © 2024.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
[Dial Phone Number877-314-1499 ](tel:877-314-1499) | NMLS ID 39179
For licensing information, please visit
[https://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org(opens in a new tab)](https://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/)

__[Image](https://movement.com/blog/2024/06/managing-moving-costs-for-first-time-homebuyers)__ used with permission

Whether you're moving down the block or going all the way across the country, moving costs can add up quickly.

Managing Moving Costs: Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

__Like so many areas of life, the COVID-19 pandemic turned the investing world upside down. But not in the ways you might imagine.__

Usually, when the stock market tanks, investors run for cover, often selling at the worst possible time (when their investments have lost value). Then they typically wait on the sidelines too long, too fearful to get back in even as the market recovers.

Not so with the COVID crowd. In the first quarter of 2020, as the dread disease started moving through the U.S. in earnest, initially there *was* a lot of fear-based selling. From mid-February of that year through mid-March, the U.S. stock market fell 34%. It had never fallen so far so fast.

But then something very unpredictable happened. The market rallied, finishing 2020 with a remarkable 21% gain. The next year, with COVID keeping kids home from school and people working from home, the market boomed, growing nearly 27%. A strange confluence of events propelled stocks higher.

__Hello, Kitty__

Several social media influencers, including one who goes by the screen name “__[Roaring Kitty,](https://www.youtube.com/c/roaringkitty)__” gained widespread publicity for live-streaming their day-trading. As the media frenzy grew, millions of people were drawn to the stock market for the first time, many certainly motivated by the lure of seemingly easy money.

And therein lies an opportunity for today’s churches.

There are, no doubt, many people attending our churches who are new to investing. Others who have been investing for some time are likely to have renewed interest in the topic, and perhaps some new questions.

If ever there was a need for good counsel in what is arguably the most complicated aspect of personal finance, that time is now. And if ever there was an institution especially well-positioned to provide that counsel, that institution is the church. The Bible has some very important guidance to offer that pertains to investing.

__Remove the roadblocks__

One reason churches may be hesitant to teach on this topic is a concern about how far they can go in giving investment advice. While churches definitely should not recommend specific investments, there is much to learn—and therefore, much the church could teach—before someone gets to the decision of what investments to make.

In fact, that’s one of the more important points to make in teaching about investing: Don’t focus too early on choosing what investments to make; instead, choose a trustworthy investing *process* and let it tell you what investments to make.

__Broadly speaking, a biblical approach to investing is distinct in two ways: *motives and methods.*__

__Motives matter__

God-honoring investing is all about glorifying God by providing for your family’s long-term needs and living generously. While retirement as our culture defines it has no basis in Scripture, the fact is that most of us will one day step out of the paid workforce. Oftentimes, that’s due to health issues or a change at work. It’s simply wise stewardship to build a nest egg that will help cover our family’s later life needs. As the Bible says, “Whoever does not provide for their relatives, and especially their immediate family, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever” (1 Timothy 5:8).

As far as generosity goes, giving after your salary days are over can be fueled from your investment account. Steadily contributing to an IRA or 401(k) plan account throughout one’s career can lead to a significant account balance at retirement, which, in addition to helping you provide for your family, can provide ample opportunities for generosity: “You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God” (2 Corinthians 9:11).

__Methods matter__

Chief among the various biblical principles that apply to building an investment portfolio are diversification and taking the long view. Ecclesiastes 11:2 counsels, “But divide your investments among many places, for you do not know what risks might lie ahead” (NLT). In a culture filled with headlines about this hot stock and that, diversification feels increasingly *counter-*cultural. And yet, it has stood the test of time as the wisest approach to investing.

The same can be said about Proverbs 21:5 (TLB): “Steady plodding brings prosperity; hasty speculation brings poverty.” On any given day, the stock market has about a 50% chance of increasing in value. However, the longer the time horizon, the more the odds move in an investor’s favor. In fact, over every 20-year period since 1926, the stock market has generated a gain.

__Even faithful Christians can be tempted by headlines promising quick riches. Now more than ever, God’s people need to hear from their churches about how to invest in God-honoring ways.__

__~~~~~~~~__
Matt Bell is managing editor at Sound Mind Investing, a Christian company that helps Christians invest well. The company was founded over 30 years ago by Austin Pryor, prompted by his friend, Larry Burkett, who said Christians need a source of trustworthy, biblical counsel for their investing. The company’s four-session video based resource, *Multiply: A Biblical Guide to Investing,* is designed for use in a small group or workshop setting. The videos are available for free through RightNow Media or for purchase at [this link](https://multiplystudy.com/).

__For Further Reading__
[Diagnosing the Health of Church Giving](https://www.christianstewardshipnetwork.com/blog/2024/4/18/diagnosing-the-health-of-church-giving)
[How Do I Grow Generosity at My Church?](https://www.christianstewardshipnetwork.com/blog/2024/4/18/how-do-i-grow-generosity-at-my-church)
[3 Church Leadership Conversations on Giving](https://www.christianstewardshipnetwork.com/blog/2024/4/4/3-church-leadership-conversations-on-giving)
[Stewarding Your Calling and Purpose](https://www.christianstewardshipnetwork.com/blog/2024/2/8/your-calling-and-purpose)
[Capital Campaigns and Biblical Stewardship](https://www.christianstewardshipnetwork.com/blog/2024/1/2/capital-campaigns-and-biblical-stewardship)
[How to Use “Thank You” as a Powerful Opportunity to Connect with Givers](https://www.christianstewardshipnetwork.com/blog/2023/10/31/use-thank-you-to-connect-with-givers)

__*Are you a pastor or church leader?*__
*At Christian Stewardship Network, we are passionate about teaching the biblical perspective on finances so that you can teach your church with authority, confidence, and integrity. Our network is a group of passionate Christ-followers with a burden to teach and equip God's people in stewardship and generosity. [Sign up for our mailing list](https://mailchi.mp/christianstewardshipnetwork.com/signup) to get new content directly to your inbox!*
*[Become a member of our network](https://membership.christianstewardshipnetwork.com/) to access our entire library of online courses, participate in monthly network calls, and more!*
*CSN is a recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Help us reach more churches with the message of stewardship and generosity, [Support our mission through giving.](https://www.christianstewardshipnetwork.com/give)*

We teach church leaders the biblical perspective on finances.

Christian Stewardship Network

Blog

The COVID-19 pandemic turned the investing world upside down. But not in the ways you might imagine.

Why Churches Should Leverage Teaching on Investing to NexGen as a Discipleship Opportunity

__If you’re tired of living paycheck-to-paycheck, you can make a decision today that will change your life.__

All you have to do is put God’s financial principles into practice and then wait to see what happens. You’ll be amazed at the results. Like most things, the first step in making financial changes is admitting that you have a problem and then identifying what you’re doing wrong. So, what’s not right with the way you’re handling money?

Maybe you worry about bouncing a check, or you fear the phone ringing because it might be a bill collector, or you’re dealing with the gas or electricity being turned off for non-payment. Maybe you argue with your spouse about money. Or you’ve stopped giving to your church because you’re afraid you won’t have enough.

Those are all signs that something needs to change. And you shouldn’t fear that change. It might be a little unsettling initially, but it’s nowhere near as scary as living paycheck to paycheck. Following God’s principles will give you welcome relief from worrying about money.

Isaiah 43:18-19 tells us, *“Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”*

__So, how do you begin to bring about this change?__ Start by dispelling the notion that God’s Word doesn’t contain everything you need to transform the way you handle money. Hebrews 4:12 reads, *“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”*

Understanding and believing in biblical truth is essential. The first principle you need to grasp is that God owns everything. Psalm 24:1 says, *“The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, the world, and those who live in it.”* When you fully embrace that principle, everything else can fall into place.

You won’t be consumed with thoughts about how you’re handling *your* money, because it’s not yours. Instead, you’ll begin to think about managing *God’s____ *money, because you’re simply His steward, or manager, of the resources He’s temporarily entrusted to you.

As His steward, God will never abandon you to fend for yourself. He’s always with you, and He’s promised to provide. Luke 12:24 reads, *“Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn…yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds!”*

Once you believe that God will provide, Scripture becomes your guide for changing the way you think and act about money. Instead of running away from God’s financial principles, you’ll run to them. The Bible says a lot about spending, saving, investing, and getting out of debt, along with contentment and generosity— *everything* you need to know for wise money management.

__Take just one principle to start. Pray earnestly about it.__ Ask God for strength, discipline, and the desire to carry it out. Maybe that’s setting aside a few dollars from your paycheck, paying more than the minimum on your credit card, or adding a little more to give to your church. Pick one and stick with it. Then, when it’s part of your life…you can go on to the next and the next.

This is putting the principle into practice. You do that with tools and structure, a budget, a will, a long-term financial plan, and so on.

If you’re not living on a budget, you need to develop a spending plan now. Proverbs 27:23 teaches, *“Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds.”* These days, our “herds and flocks” are our bank accounts and other financial assets.

There’s no better tool for developing a spending plan than the FaithFi app. With three money management options, you can easily find one that fits your unique needs and preferences. Download it from your app store.

Many people find it difficult to change by themselves. They need someone to encourage them and hold them accountable. As our friend Howard Dayton likes to say, *“to hold their fuzzy feet to the fire.”*

You may need someone to keep you on track. It could be a spouse, another family member, or a friend, but someone to hold you accountable for staying on budget.

__Those are the tools you need to start putting God’s financial principles into practice. When you do, you’ll see big changes in your life—not right away, but be patient—it will happen. And then you can stop worrying about money. Get started today.__

You can also __[listen](https://www.faithfi.com/search?q=Put%20Your%20Principles%20Where%20Your%20Money%20Is&videos=true&articles=true&podcasts=true&posts=true&groups=true&events=true&support=true)__ to the related podcast on this topic.

If you’re tired of living paycheck-to-paycheck, you can make a decision today that will change your life.

Put Your Principles Where Your Money Is

__We often learn more from our mistakes than from our successes. But making mistakes with money can be costly — literally. So it’s far better, if possible, to learn from *other people’s* mistakes.__

Two years ago, investment firm Natixis surveyed 2,700 financial professionals worldwide about the most prevalent mistakes they’ve observed regarding retirement planning — errors and oversights people commonly make about later-life financial preparation. We’ve detailed several of those common errors below.

- __Underestimating the impact of inflation.__

The survey of financial professionals tagged this as the single most common retirement-planning mistake. Just as most people don’t fully appreciate the power of compounding in the long-term growth of an investment portfolio, they also fail to grasp the destructive impact of *inflation’s* compounding. 

Although inflation is generally discussed in terms of “higher prices,” price increases result from what is truly happening: the devaluation of money makes it lose “purchasing power.” That’s why what used to cost, say, $75, now costs $100. It’s because the money is worth less than it used to be.

Even with a relatively tame rate of inflation, the compound effect over many years [destroys considerable purchasing power](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/the-large-impact-of-even-low-inflation-over-time). Consider the situation 20 years from now if inflation grows at just 3% a year: Today’s $75,000-a-year lifestyle [would cost](https://www.calculator.net/inflation-calculator.html) $135,000. That’s $60,000 additional dollars to achieve or maintain roughly the same standard of living provided by $75,000 today.

- __Investing too conservatively.__

This error ties directly to the inflation-related point above. To meet the challenge posed by inflation, one must invest in instruments that have the potential to match or outpace inflation. Although fixed-income instruments such as CDs, bonds, and savings accounts serve essential functions within one’s overall financial holdings, they are ill-suited for beating inflation. That’s why investing too conservatively can be quite risky.

- __Overestimating investment income.__

A realistic retirement plan should consider your potential longevity (see next point) and use return projections that aren’t overly optimistic. Withdrawing too much money too soon from your retirement account(s) will create problems later, especially if you or your spouse live to a ripe old age.

A general rule is that withdrawing no more than 4% annually from your portfolio will ensure the account isn’t depleted early. However, the “4% rule” [isn’t always optimal](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/how-much-should-you-withdraw-each-year-during-retirement). Your personal “safe withdrawal rate” depends on several factors, including other sources of income, the size of your portfolio, and the [sequence in which your investment returns occur](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/this-is-not-a-test-retiring-in-or-near-a-bear-market).

- __Underestimating your life span.__

As SMI noted in a [recent article](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/claiming-social-security-benefits-timing-can-make-a-big-difference), even though the average life expectancy in the U.S. is 76 years, a man who reaches age 65 in good health has a greater than 60% probability of living to age 85. A 65-year-old woman in good health is more likely than not to live into her 90s.

Therefore, for many people, making wise financial preparations for their retirement years must take into account two decades or more of life after age 65. Again, it is impossible to know how those years will play out concerning investment performance and inflation. However, failing to plan for 20 or more years of retirement and not considering the [range of possibilities](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/the-monte-carlo-method-a-primer) is asking for trouble.

- __Forgetting healthcare costs.__

In the U.S., Medicare covers many — but not all — health expenses for people 65 and older. Generally speaking, Medicare covers routine medical costs (including some [preventive care](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/an-ounce-of-prevention-free-preventive-services-from-medicare)) and short-term hospital stays. Covering other expenses with insurance requires purchasing a [supplement plan (Medigap) or a Medicare Advantage plan](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/bridging-the-gap-covering-what-medicare-doesnt-pay), and you’ll likely face out-of-pocket expenses for co-pays and other things such plans don’t cover. Many plans, for example, [don’t include dental coverage](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/be-prepared-for-post-retirement-financial-shocks).

Of course, the biggest health-related wild card in retirement planning is the potential cost of extended care. Insurance policies that cover long-term care have grown prohibitively expensive for most people, but a more affordable [short-term-care policy](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/short-term-care-insurance-an-alternative-for-extended-care) may be an option. For those who qualify for a Health Savings Account, [building up an HSA](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/a-health-savings-account-the-other-retirement-account) during one’s working years can help fund later-life health costs.

Remember that one of the best ways to prepare for later-life health is to take good care of yourself today. Many common health issues result from poor diet, lack of exercise, too little sleep, too much stress, and other controllable factors.

__Take advantage of helpful resources__

Because so many variables change over the years, it is difficult to anticipate everything that might happen. Fortunately, resources are available to help you avoid common errors and oversights.

One is MoneyGuide, the award-winning web-based financial planning tool [available to SMI Premium-level members](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/personalized-financial-planning-is-within-your-reach). MoneyGuide can run hundreds of “what if” scenarios, taking into account variables such as market reversals and higher inflation rates.

Additionally, you may want to seek guidance from a financial professional, such as a Stewardship Advisor at [SMI Private Client](https://soundmindinvesting.com/smiprivateclient) (a separate business from the SMI newsletter, although the two businesses are affiliated).

__In an unpredictable world, no retirement plan will work out perfectly. But by thinking carefully and taking advantage of helpful resources, you can go a long way toward securing your financial future.__

__[Image](https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/avoiding-the-most-common-retirement-planning-mistakes)__ used with permission

Retirement

We often learn more from our mistakes than from our successes. But making mistakes with money can be costly — literally.

Avoiding the Most Common Retirement-Planning Mistakes

__Marriage is one of the most beautiful things we do. When we get married, we leave our old families and become one with our spouse. It is an amazing picture of the relationship between Christ and his church. Being on the same page regarding life goals and identity in Christ is essential to a fulfilling marriage.__

While the idea of retirement is relatively new to our culture, it’s nonetheless essential to have conversations with your spouse about it early and often. Here are some questions to consider as you and your spouse discuss what retirement could look like for both of you.

__1. What does it mean to be retired?__

This is a super broad question. But it’s a necessary one. Often, you hear the idea of endless vacations, travel, and golf. However, I think this question should lead us to ponder more than luxuries or comforts. Is retirement all about living the easy life, or is it an opportunity to do something much more? I think it’s the latter. Retirement offers the freedom to make a significant Kingdom impact through both finances and time.

__2. Where should we live?__

This is another question that will spawn even more questions. *Here are some of the things to consider when choosing where to live:*

- Proximity to family (think kids and grandkids)
- Access to healthcare (critical if you have health issues)
- Availability of a local church
- Opportunities to serve within the community

This list isn’t exhaustive, but it provides a good starting point for discussion and prayer over where God may call you in your next season of life.

__3. What kind of work will we do?__

A standard view of work is that we do it until we’ve saved enough money to escape the daily grind. However, Scripture sees work as an inherently good thing. Good work does far more than provide a daily paycheck. On the contrary, work allows us to better reflect God's image and to do things or provide services that promote human flourishing.

As you consider the work you want to do, remember that it doesn’t necessarily need to be paid work. However, consider how you could still use your gifts and talents to provide service to others (1 Peter 4:10).

__4. How will we pour into other people?__

When I was in college, many students were “adopted” by older people at our church. It’s a time that I cherish greatly. I had the opportunity to learn and be mentored by a couple who had walked with God for decades.

You could also have similar opportunities. Now, you may not have a bunch of college students at your church, but younger families do crave your mentorship and wisdom. You can also consider how to pour into other church members and how you might be a gospel light to your neighbors.

__5. How will we prepare financially?__

This question may involve some of the more technical and nerdy aspects of retirement planning and also spawns more questions. While considering this, you’ll want to ask yourself, “How much is enough for me to live and give generously?” This question could help you determine a financial “finish line” to aim for. The next question would likely be, “How do we get there?” You’ll need to consider what tools you have, which include IRAs, Roth accounts, workplace retirement plans, and so forth.

__6. Do we have our estate planning documents in order?__

Your estate planning documents determine what happens with your assets after you pass away. It’s essential to keep these documents updated regularly.

*There are three important documents that you need to have in order:*

- A will (dictates what happens to your assets)
- A durable power of attorney (dictates who manages your finances if you’re incapacitated)
- An advanced medical directive (dictates who can make medical decisions for you if you’re incapacitated)

Additionally, you need to keep your beneficiaries updated on all of your retirement accounts. Beneficiaries on these accounts supersede anything written in your will, so you must make sure the beneficiaries reflect your wishes.

__7. What are some advanced giving strategies we can use?__

In my opinion, this is where wealth-building starts to get super exciting! There are tons of giving strategies out there that offer amazing tax benefits to you as the donor and to the organization as the donee. You can gift appreciated stock, utilize qualified charitable distributions from your traditional IRAs after age 70 ½, or take advantage of donor-advised funds.

Retirement can be some of the best years of your life, but not for the reasons of endless luxury or vacation. Instead, retirement can be a season of fruitful investment in God’s Kingdom. If you need help planning for retirement, consider working with a [Kingdom Advisor](https://kingdomadvisors.com/) who can help you determine the path to a retirement that maximizes Kingdom impact.

__[Image](https://www.christianmoneysolutions.com/blog/7-retirement-questions-to-ask-your-spouse)__ used with permission

While the idea of retirement is relatively new to our culture, it's essential to talk about it with your spouse.

7 Retirement Questions to Ask Your Spouse

__In the 1st century BC, Roman historian Sallust said, *“Prosperity tries the souls, even of the wise.”*__

Most people would choose financial prosperity despite its temptations, but what if you’re living with financial *adversity*? When things are going well financially, it’s tempting to take credit for your success. This can lead to sins such as pride and greed.  Adversity has its own set of temptations. Self-pity, bitterness, and envy are a few typical responses to hard times and these aren’t godly attitudes, either.

There is a better way, of course. Christians are called to live with integrity, no matter the circumstances we face. But how do we do that consistently? According to the Bible, the key to godly living in both good times and bad is *wisdom*.

Proverbs 1:7 says, *“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.”* Fearing the Lord means respecting and honoring His authority. It also means obeying His commands. We do this because we understand the *consequences* of breaking God’s rules. Scripture confirms that fearing the Lord in this way is the first step toward living wisely.

Good parents know that children need boundaries, both for safety and healthy development. God has set boundaries for his children as well, boundaries that protect us spiritually and physically. When God says “no” to something, such as stealing or dishonesty, it’s because those things hurt us by breaking relationships with other people and with the Lord.

Because God loves us, he sets these boundaries for our lives. When we obey, we are safe and at peace. So, fearing the Lord isn’t about being afraid, it’s about learning to love and obey our heavenly Father even more.

Wisdom is something that begins with a healthy respect for God’s authority.  That means, whether you’re struggling financially, or experiencing a time of prosperity, you can still live wisely. __Pay attention to what God says, and you’ll begin to receive the *benefits of wisdom.*  Here are a few of those:__

- __Discernment.__ Proverbs 2:9 says the wise *“…will understand what is right and just and fair.”*
- __Guidance.__ Proverbs 3:6 reminds us that, "*in all your ways acknowledge Him…and he will make your paths straight.”*
- __Blessing.__ In Proverbs 3:13 we hear that *“blessed is the man who finds wisdom.”*
- __Good reputation.__ In Proverbs 3:35 *“the wise inherit honor.”*
- __Protection.__ Proverbs 16:6 says, *“through the fear of the Lord a man avoids evil.”*

Those are certainly desirable benefits, and all available to you no matter your financial state.

What about those who choose *not* to honor God and live by His rules? The Bible calls those people *fools.*  “Fool” is a strong term referring to someone who deliberately destroys themselves. Psalm 14:1 puts it plainly: “*The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’ They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds; there is none who does good.”*

God warns that fools will suffer shame, disaster, distress, and troubles. You definitely don’t want to be foolish in your finances or your life. How can you follow a path of wisdom in your day-to-day financial decisions?

__First, understand how God views money and possessions.__ The Bible tells us that God owns everything, and we are to be wise caretakers of whatever we have. He’s not really concerned about your bank balance. What matters is where your heart is. Ask the Lord to change your heart so you can follow Him in this area.

__Second, being financially wise means living by biblical principles.__ For example, practice integrity in all your dealings and consider others more important than yourself. You can find out more about this at [FaithFi.com](http://faithfi.com/).

__A third key to financial wisdom is *contentment*.__ When you invite God into your finances, trusting him to lead you and provide what you need, you’ll begin to understand 1 Timothy 6:6, *“Godliness with contentment is great gain.”*

What do your actions and attitudes about money reveal about you?  Are you wise or foolish? If you’re committed to Jesus, following the Lord with all your heart, it will show in your financial choices.

__Whether God in *His* wisdom has provided you with adversity or prosperity, you can be confident in God’s love and provision. You can be prepared to deal with *any* financial circumstances when you’re focused on what’s really important and that’s *following Jesus*.  As it says in 1 Corinthians 1:30, “*Jesus Christ…has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.”*__

You can also __[listen](https://www.faithfi.com/search?q=Living%20Wisely%20in%20Either%20Prosperity%20or%20Adversity&videos=true&articles=true&podcasts=true&posts=true&groups=true&events=true&support=true)__ to the related podcast on this topic.

Most people would choose financial prosperity if given the choice, but what if you’re living with financial adversity?

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