Aaron Caid is Chief Marketing Officer at <a href="https://www.mycccu.com/">Christian Community Credit Union</a>, an underwriter of this program. Again, this is part two of our discussion. Please give us a brief recap of what your survey revealed and how folks feel about banks that don't share their values.<ul><li>Over 30% of Christians surveyed in a recent study considered switching banks in the last year.</li><li>One of the top three reasons for switching was misalignment with Christian values.      </li><li>More than 60% of respondents care deeply about managing their finances biblically.    </li><li>Over 50% believe it's crucial for their bank to align with and support their Christian values.</li></ul> What would you encourage Christians Aaron to consider when they're thinking about where they bank?<ul><li>Christians should consider how their bank uses the money they deposit.       </li><li>They should ask whether the bank maximizes profits for shareholders or supports Christian causes.</li><li>Christians can assess if their bank helps advance the gospel or attempts to silence it.</li><li>They should inquire about how the bank uses its profits, whether for moral causes or ministries.</li></ul> Switching banks may feel like a lot of effort. So what would you tell that person?<ul><li>Switching banks is a small time investment, similar to adopting a new spiritual practice.  </li><li>Aligning finances with faith is worth the effort.</li><li>Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU) provides an alternative aligned with Christian values.</li></ul> What are the primary differences between CCCU and big banks? <ul><li>CCCU offers quality financial products and robust digital tools.</li><li>Members enjoy competitive rates and low fees.        </li><li>Financial activities support building churches, expanding ministries, and aiding Christian charities.         </li><li>CCCU operates with Scripture as its primary authority, in contrast to secular banks.</li></ul> What are some of the compelling offerings you all have at CCCU today?<ul><li>Recently introduced the "Harvest High Yield Checking Account" with a 4% APY on the first $5,000 in deposits.</li><li>They offer a "Welcome CD" with a 5% APY, fully insured up to $250,000 per account.     </li><li>CCCU provides a "Cash Rewards Card" that offers 1.5% cashback and contributes to Christian charities with each use.</li></ul>You’ll find more information at <a href="http://joinchristiancommunity.com/">JoinChristianCommunity.com</a>. On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: <ul><li>When moving money between brokers, what should I know about the different types of accounts and fees involved?</li><li>Is it a good idea to sell my wife's car, which is worth around $5,000, and get a cheaper one?</li><li>Should I sell my properties and put the money into an annuity to protect against potential Medicaid eligibility issues in the future?</li></ul> Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the <a href="https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/faith-and-finance/">Moody Radio Network</a> as well as <a href="https://afr.net/podcasts/faith-finance/">American Family Radio</a>. Visit our website at <a href="https://www.faithfi.com/">FaithFi.com</a>where you can join the FaithFi Community, <a href="https://faithfi.netviewshop.com/donate2">and give</a> as we expand our outreach.

FaithFi

Faith & Finance is a daily radio ministry hosted by Rob West. The program offers a practical, biblical and good-natured approach to managing your time, talents and resources.

Faith & Finance with Rob West

It’s 2023. Do you know what your bank is doing these days? A lot of people don’t.
Many of the nation’s big banks are supporting abortion and other ungodly practices— and many Christians are saying they’ve had enough. Today we’ll have part two of our discussion with Aaron Caid about a very revealing survey on this topic.

Is Your Bank Unbiblical, Pt. 2 With Aaron Caid

<ul><li>God created human beings for work, emphasizing its importance throughout the Bible for personal growth and God's glory.</li><li>Adam and Eve were given the responsibility of caring for the Garden of Eden, showcasing that work was a gift to maintain their relationship with God.</li><li>Despite the challenges brought about by sin, the desire for meaningful work persists within people.</li><li>Many individuals are working multiple jobs, influenced by financial constraints, with more than 7.7 million workers in such situations as of 2022.</li><li>Keeping multiple jobs organized is crucial, requiring task, schedule, and contact management, whether using online apps or traditional planners.</li><li>Effective communication is essential when managing multiple jobs, including regular check-ins with employers, team members, and clearly defined expectations and deadlines.</li><li>Time management is crucial, with boundaries and breaks necessary to prevent burnout.</li><li>Maintaining one's spiritual well-being is essential even in busy times, as overemphasis on work can lead to it becoming an idol.</li></ul> Here are a few clues that your work might be an idol, whether you have one job or many:<ul><li>Your self-worth rises or falls based on meeting your income goals.</li><li>You give up rest, family time, and church in order to put in extra work hours.</li><li>You can’t take your mind off of work tasks, e-mails, calls, and issues.</li><li>You are stressed out, discouraged and exhausted by working.</li><li>You believe that financial security is the main reason for work.</li><li>You are obsessed with productivity, success, income, and promotion.</li><li>You believe your paycheck is your provider.</li><li>And finally, a very telling indication…You make money, but you don’t like to give money.</li></ul> If work is becoming an idol for you, rest and turn to Jesus instead. Satisfying work isn’t about you– it’s about Who.  When you focus on Christ and follow biblical principles, your attitude towards work will change as well.  You’ll begin to see the opportunities God’s giving you to reach others.  You’ll understand that difficult circumstances are sometimes God’s way of helping you “grow up” as a Christian. You’ll recognize that God is your provider, and you can trust Him to lead you and take care of you. On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: <ul><li>How do we put our parents' house in my name before any major events and tax implications? </li><li>Should I change the allocation of my 401(k) investments at 61 years old?</li><li>Is it a good idea to pay off our home mortgage using a CD and savings when we already have a substantial emergency fund and no other debts?</li></ul> Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the <a href="https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/faith-and-finance/">Moody Radio Network</a> as well as <a href="https://afr.net/podcasts/faith-finance/">American Family Radio</a>. Visit our website at <a href="https://www.faithfi.com/">FaithFi.com</a>where you can join the FaithFi Community, <a href="https://faithfi.netviewshop.com/donate2">and give</a> as we expand our outreach.

The Bible calls work a gift.  But if you have to work more than one job, it might not feel like it. We’ll offer a few practical and spiritual insights for working multiple jobs, today on Faith and Finance.

Working Multiple Jobs

“And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.”  Jeremiah 3:15Brian Kluth is a best-selling author of several books on generosity. He was a pastor himself for 10 years and is now the national spokesman for the annual Bless Your Pastor initiative, which is organized by the National Association of Evangelicals. Tell us about the three-step program for blessing pastors and church staff.The three steps are:1. Download free materials for your church and share them with church leaders, including a flier titled "50 Ways to Bless Your Pastor and Church Staff. 2. Take up an appreciation offering.      3. Publicly honor the pastor and staff.Completing these steps allows pastors to receive a marriage retreat scholarship to a Weekend to Remember and access other free and discounted retreat and vacation opportunities. Over 3,000 churches have already participated in this program. What are some examples from the "50 Ways to Bless Your Pastor" resource?<ul><li>The resource provides ideas on how to pray for your pastor, affirm your pastor, encourage them, and offer practical assistance.       </li><li>Examples include offering dental care, car repairs, lawn care, and other practical acts of service.</li><li>The goal is to show deep appreciation for those who minister in the church, as encouraged by 1 Thessalonians 5:12.</li></ul> How does collecting an appreciation offering work (Step 2)?<ul><li>Leaders inform the congregation that they will collect an appreciation offering for the pastor and church staff.   </li><li>This offering is a gift to help pastors and staff, many of whom may have limited financial resources.       </li><li>It can make a significant difference in their lives, especially during times like Christmas.</li></ul> Give an example of what celebrating (Step 3) looks like.<ul><li>Celebrating can involve various forms of recognition or appreciation, such as public prayers, appreciation meals, or handwritten notes.</li><li>The key is to honor pastors and church staff publicly to show appreciation for their service.</li></ul> All materials and information can be found at <a href="https://blessyourpastor.org/">blessyourpastor.org</a>, available in both English and Spanish. On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: <ul><li>Should you convert some traditional retirement accounts to a Roth IRA based on my financial situation?</li><li>What's the best way to start a Roth IRA with a monthly contribution of $400-$500?</li><li>Should I take a lump sum or an annuity from my pension as I approach retirement?</li><li>I have $30,000 in a checking account, and I'm looking for ways to make it earn more interest without taking risks. What should I do with it?</li></ul> RESOURCES MENTIONED:<ul><li><a href="https://www.bankrate.com/">Bankrate.com</a>  </li></ul>Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the <a href="https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/faith-and-finance/">Moody Radio Network</a> as well as <a href="https://afr.net/podcasts/faith-finance/">American Family Radio</a>. Visit our website at <a href="https://www.faithfi.com/">FaithFi.com</a>where you can join the FaithFi Community, <a href="https://faithfi.netviewshop.com/donate2">and give</a> as we expand our outreach.

October is Pastor Appreciation Month. It’s a great time to show your appreciation for the shepherds the Lord has given you, who feed you with knowledge and understanding. We’ll talk with Brian Kluth about that today on Faith and Finance.

3 Steps to Bless Your Pastor With Brian Kluth

Mark Biller is executive editor at <a href="https://soundmindinvesting.com/">Sound Mind Investing</a>.Mark recently published an article in the latest SMI newsletter titled “<a href="https://soundmindinvesting.com/articles/measuring-the-market-s-valuation-part-1-p-s-and-p-e-ratios">Measuring the Market’s Valuation</a>."Market valuation" refers to the process of assessing the worth or value of the overall stock market or individual stocks within it. It involves determining whether the current prices of stocks accurately reflect their underlying fundamentals, such as earnings, assets, and growth potential. Market valuation is essential because it helps investors make informed decisions about buying or selling stocks. Here's why market valuation is important:<ul><li>Price Assessment: It helps investors assess whether the prices of stocks are reasonable, overpriced, or underpriced based on their intrinsic value. This information guides investment decisions.</li><li>Risk Management: Understanding market valuation can assist in managing investment risk. If stocks are overvalued, it may indicate a higher risk of a market correction or crash.</li><li>Asset Allocation: Market valuation influences asset allocation decisions. In an overvalued market, investors may choose to allocate more funds to safer assets like bonds or cash.</li><li>Long-Term Returns: It can impact long-term investment returns. Buying stocks when they are undervalued can lead to better long-term gains.</li><li>Behavioral Factors: Market valuation can provide insights into investor sentiment and behavior. During periods of overvaluation, investors may be overly optimistic, while undervaluation may lead to pessimism.</li><li>Overall, market valuation helps investors make informed and rational decisions in the stock market, balancing potential returns with risk. It's a crucial tool for both individual and institutional investors in managing their portfolios.</li></ul> It’s important to recognize that the price investors are willing to pay for company earnings changes over time, right?<ul><li>Investor attitudes and the price investors are willing to pay for company earnings change significantly over time.</li><li>These changes are driven by emotional swings, with investors being optimistic at times and pessimistic at others.</li><li>These shifts in investor sentiment contribute to extended bull markets and occasional stock market bubbles, as well as bear markets when investors become pessimistic.</li></ul> The key to measuring how expensive a given company, or the stock market as a whole, is to know how much it is earning - is that right?<ul><li>Yes, measuring a company's or market's valuation often involves comparing its price to its earnings.     </li><li>One common measure is the "P/E ratio" (price to earnings ratio), which compares the stock price to earnings per share.</li><li>Similar measures can be applied to the entire market to assess its overall valuation.</li></ul> Mark offers some important warnings about market valuation in his article. <ul><li>Market valuation is not a useful short-term timing tool.      </li><li>It can indicate when the market is overvalued or undervalued, but it doesn't predict when corrections will occur.      </li><li>Market valuation is primarily helpful for long-term projections and can inform financial planning.</li><li>High valuations may suggest below-average returns in the coming decade, while low valuations may suggest above-average returns.</li></ul> So we shouldn’t necessarily run out and make a bunch of trades based on this information. How can we use it to help us make decisions?<ul><li>Market valuation can help in long-term financial planning.  </li><li>If the market is highly valued, conservative return estimates can be used in retirement planning.   </li><li>Adjusting expectations based on market valuation can guide decisions about savings rates and retirement age.</li></ul> What do the various measures say about the market’s valuation today?<ul><li>Most measures suggest that the market is currently expensive.</li><li>A decade of economic growth and massive stimulus have contributed to high valuations, although they have moderated slightly from late 2021.</li></ul> Are there other factors that can affect market valuations, and how do these types of situations typically resolve?<ul><li>Other factors can impact valuations, and over the decades, the trend has been toward higher valuations.</li><li>Market valuations often correct through bear markets, which can cut market values significantly.</li><li>These corrections set the stage for future bull markets as valuations become more favorable.</li><li>The discussion provides insights into market valuation, its limitations, and its relevance in long-term financial planning.</li></ul> On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: <ul><li>Are Certified Kingdom Advisors professionals with extra training or volunteers who have undergone additional training?</li><li>Is there a formula to determine whether to repair a car when the repair cost exceeds the car's current market value?</li><li>Is it a good idea to keep a 17-year term life insurance policy for mortgage protection, or would it be better to use the money for emergency funds and investments?</li></ul> RESOURCES MENTIONED:<ul><li><a href="https://www.faithfi.com/find">Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor</a>  </li></ul>Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the <a href="https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/faith-and-finance/">Moody Radio Network</a> as well as <a href="https://afr.net/podcasts/faith-finance/">American Family Radio</a>. Visit our website at <a href="https://www.faithfi.com/">FaithFi.com</a>where you can join the FaithFi Community, <a href="https://faithfi.netviewshop.com/donate2">and give</a> as we expand our outreach.

Are stocks overvalued right now? No doubt some are. Better question: Is the stock market as a whole overvalued? We’ll talk to Mark Biller about that today on Faith and Finance.

Measuring the Market’s Valuation With Mark Biller

First, a hat tip to our friends at The Gospel Coalition for <a href="https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/kids-ready-inherit/">a great article</a> on this topic.<ul><li>By 2030, Baby Boomers are expected to pass nearly $68 trillion in assets to their children, primarily millennials.</li><li>Millennials are projected to hold five times as much wealth by 2030 compared to today.</li><li>Concerns arise regarding the impact of declining church giving as Boomers pass away.</li><li>Smaller and larger churches alike are experiencing a downturn in giving, with even larger evangelical churches seeing a drop during the COVID-19 pandemic.</li><li>Younger generations prioritize charitable giving, potentially offsetting the decline.</li><li>Christian Boomers can influence their adult children's generosity by modeling it and engaging in discussions about wealth transfer.</li><li>Three ways Christian Boomers can leave a legacy of generosity are engaging with their family, planning their estates to include charitable giving, and educating and encouraging their heirs.</li><li>Estate planning can include strategies for supporting churches, ministries, or missionaries.       </li><li>Ethical wills can capture life stories, religious values, ethics, and beliefs to pass on to future generations.</li><li>Financial literacy should also be a focus to ensure heirs are prepared to handle the wealth they receive, promoting stewardship and generosity.</li></ul> On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: <ul><li>Should you use 401k funds to pay off a mortgage? </li><li>Should a person in their mid-30s with no dependents get life insurance? </li><li>Does it make sense to move savings into a high-yield savings account? </li><li>Is it true that banks will ask people to convert their cash to digital currency soon?</li></ul> RESOURCES MENTIONED:<ul><li><a href="https://www.bankrate.com/">Bankrate.com</a></li><li><a href="https://app.faithfi.com/login">App.faithfi.com</a>  </li></ul>Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the <a href="https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/faith-and-finance/">Moody Radio Network</a> as well as <a href="https://afr.net/podcasts/faith-finance/">American Family Radio</a>. Visit our website at <a href="https://www.faithfi.com/">FaithFi.com</a>where you can join the FaithFi Community, <a href="https://faithfi.netviewshop.com/donate2">and give</a> as we expand our outreach.

There’s a financial tsunami coming and it’s not what you might expect. It’s not about debt— it’s actually a tidal wave of wealth. As Baby Boomers pass away, they will transfer an immense amount of assets to their children. Analysts are calling it “historic.” We’ll talk about that today on Faith and Finance.

A Tidal Wave of Wealth

Start with the differences between how men and women tend to think or approach life.<ul><li>Broad generalities about men and women in relationships don't apply to every couple.</li><li>Contrasts between men and women: builders vs. beautifiers, risk takers vs. nest builders, task-focused vs. relationship-focused, big picture vs. detail-oriented, factual vs. intuitive, compartmentalized vs. centralizing.</li><li>Men tend to be the head of the home, and women tend to be the heart of the home.</li><li>Opposites often attract in couples, with one being more of a thinker and the other more of a feeler, both holding equal importance.</li></ul> When it comes to these differences, how have you seen it show up?<ul><li>Common patterns in differences between spouses: husband focusing on big-picture decisions and retirement planning, while the wife handles day-to-day expenses.</li><li>Husband taking the lead on significant purchases like homes or cars, while the wife accumulates expenses over time through household shopping.</li><li>Highlighting the variance in risk tolerance between men and women, emphasizing the value of compromise for the family's benefit.</li><li>Men tend to have a higher risk tolerance than women do. And yet, if they will come together and meet in the middle, they often find that the compromise is really the best fit for the family.</li></ul> What are some of the reasons that you've found that couples operate this way where only one of them is overseeing the investments?<ul><li>The big one is busyness and the need for task specialization in marriage.</li><li>But there's also a really positive reason that sometimes this occurs, and that is that there's something in the heart of a man I think, in particular, that wants to provide for his family, and feels blessed when his wife trusts Him with the investment decisions and feel confident that he's able to do that.</li></ul> You talked to us about how men being the head of the home and the woman being the heart of the home, we might think of that as thinker and feeler. So how does that apply specifically to investing? <ul><li>Thinking spouse focuses on technical, factual aspects like return, risk, lock-up period, and fees.</li><li>Feeling spouse emphasizes safety, availability for family needs, and alignment with family values, including social responsibility.</li><li>Both men and women can value socially responsible investing, but research highlights its importance to women.</li></ul> Let's talk about some of the potential dangers of having just one spouse make the investment and long-term planning decisions. <ul><li>Longevity: Women tend to live longer than men, so if one spouse handles everything and passes away, the surviving spouse may struggle with complex financial matters during a time of grief.</li><li>Responsibility imbalance: If the feeling spouse becomes too passive in financial matters, it can place a heavy burden on the thinking spouse, potentially leading to dissatisfaction with the outcomes and marital friction.</li><li>Ignoring spouse's intuition: The thinking spouse, while being financially savvy, may overlook their partner's concerns or intuitions, which can lead to poor decisions. Listening to each other's input is essential.</li></ul> What is the potential benefit of making both investment and major financial decisions together?<ul><li>God created men and women with different and complementary attributes, representing different facets of God's image.</li><li>Reflects the biblical principle that two are better than one.</li><li>Supports and strengthens the marriage, particularly in significant investment decisions.</li><li>Encourages prayerful decision-making and unity in financial matters.</li></ul> For that spouse that's hearing this today and says, Yes, that's what I desire. But her spouse, let's say, has been managing everything. And she wants to be a part of it. How would you encourage her to approach that conversation?<ul><li>Encourage the spouse to approach the conversation delicately.</li><li>Suggest a gentle approach that acknowledges the partner's service.</li><li>Express the desire to learn and become involved in financial matters.</li><li>Seek the partner's guidance in getting educated and engaged with investment.</li></ul> If you're a woman in the Denver or Colorado Springs area, and you'd like to meet Rachel and hear more on this topic, The National Christian Foundation will be hosting two women's events October 4, 5. Rachel will be speadking she'll be diving deeper on the topic of men, women and investing for impact. You can request information at Rocky Mountains at <a href="https://www.ncfgiving.com/">NCFgiving.com</a> or via email at <a href="mailto:rockymountains@ncfgiving.com">rockymountains@ncfgiving.com</a>.You can find out more about Rachel at <a href="http://www.wealthsq.com/">www.wealthsq.com</a>.  On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: <ul><li>Should I withdraw my money from my fixed annuity and invest it in something else with potentially higher interest rates despite facing surrender charges?</li></ul> RESOURCES MENTIONED:<ul><li><a href="https://www.faithfi.com/find">Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor</a>  </li></ul>Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the <a href="https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/faith-and-finance/">Moody Radio Network</a> as well as <a href="https://afr.net/podcasts/faith-finance/">American Family Radio</a>. Visit our website at <a href="https://www.faithfi.com/">FaithFi.com</a>where you can join the FaithFi Community, <a href="https://faithfi.netviewshop.com/donate2">and give</a> as we expand our outreach.

Two become one in marriage, but what does that mean when it comes to investing? Should both spouses be included in investment decisions? Rachel McDonough certainly thinks so, and today she’ll tell us about the benefits of both husband and wife engaging in that process.

Rachel McDonough is a Certified Financial Planner and a Certified Kingdom Advisor.

When Spouses Invest Together with Rachel McDonough

Some statistics claim that 54 percent of American employees are happy with their jobs. Then again, apparently, 83 percent of us are suffering from work-related stress.  So, what does all this mean for you?  If work-related pressure is getting you down, what do you do? Quit? Re-train and change jobs? Grit your teeth and keep going?We suggest you step back and ask a different question: As a believer in Christ, why are you working in the first place?The desire to do productive, meaningful work is in our D-N-A.  In fact, when God created Adam and Eve, He immediately set them to work naming the animals and tending their beautiful garden.  Unfortunately, along with everything else, work was twisted by sin after the Fall.  Now, instead of always being productive and satisfying the way God intended, work can literally make us sick.In Colossians 3: 23 and 24, we see the key to rediscovering meaningful work: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.  It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”Serving God in your work, whether your job is secular or not, is the key to contentment on the job.  The verse says “whatever you do”, so it’s not the work itself that matters, it’s the boss.  And if you’re a Christian, your boss is Jesus - not you, and not even your employer.Here’s an example of someone who did her job as unto the Lord.We don’t know her name, but her virtues are outlined in Chapter 31 of Proverbs. She’s referred to as “A wife of noble character”, but her actions and attitudes are worth studying and imitating, no matter who you are.One characteristic of this Bible hero that stands out to me is what we might call her work ethic. Here are some of the phrases that describe this woman of “noble character”.  You can ask yourself: Does this describe me, too?“She works with eager hands…” A person of noble character has a positive attitude towards work, knowing that diligence can produce many benefits.“She gets up while it is still dark, she provides food for her family…” The Bible makes it clear that providing for your family is a primary responsibility. She takes it very seriously.“She considers a field and buys it…out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.” Part of the biblical work ethic involves expertise – gaining useful skills and using them for the benefit of your family and community.“She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks” This hero is aware that living well requires strength and determination.  You don’t get there sitting on the couch watching YouTube.“She opens her arms to the poor” This woman of character is so successful in her work…that she is able to be generous with her surplus.  Are you working just for yourself, or so you can help others also?She speaks with wisdom…”  A person of noble character develops enough experience to teach others.  Her work ethic is the water that raises all boats, because everyone benefits from her industry.“She does not eat the bread of idleness”.  It’s pretty clear that a biblical work ethic means NOT being lazy.The most important quality of the woman of noble character is that she follows and honors the Lord: “A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised”.  Everything she does comes from a desire to serve God, and all of her success springs from this priority.We can learn a lot from the Proverbs 31 woman about working as unto the Lord. We encourage you to read through Proverbs 31 and make it a point to follow her example!Finally, as you consider your own job stresses, remember Proverbs 3: 5-6. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.  On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: <ul><li>What recourse do you have if you buy a used vehicle and it turns out to be a lemon? </li><li>How do you go about redeeming bonds of a deceased parent? </li><li>Does it make sense to take money out of investments to pay off a vehicle? </li><li>Can you provide suggestions for rebuilding my savings, considering my retirement situation and the funds I've used for home repairs, taxes, and my current financial status?  </li></ul>Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the <a href="https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/faith-and-finance/">Moody Radio Network</a> as well as <a href="https://afr.net/podcasts/faith-finance/">American Family Radio</a>. Visit our website at <a href="https://www.faithfi.com/">FaithFi.com</a>where you can join the FaithFi Community, <a href="https://faithfi.netviewshop.com/donate2">and give</a> as we expand our outreach.

If you’re bringing home stress along with your salary, maybe it’s time to re-think the purpose of your work. Today we’ll see what it looks like to “work as unto the Lord.”

Working as Unto the Lord

Jerry Bowyer is our resident economist and author of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Maker-Versus-Takers-Justice-Economics/dp/1642933708">The Maker versus the Takers: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics</a>Today, we’re continuing our series on just what a Christian economic worldview should look like and how we can return to God’s plan for a healthy economy.Last time, Jerry told us that we have to see and think clearly and understand that an economic system fits together coherently with cause and effect. We need to see that the God who made man and the God who made the earth is one God with one mind and we are compatible with one another.  As we start out today, sum up where we’ve been.<ul><li>The series begins by examining how things were supposed to be, often referring back to the original creational intent and biblical principles.</li><li>It is emphasized that the economy of Genesis 1 and 2 represents the ideal state of affairs as designed by God.</li><li>However, humanity abandoned this ideal, leading to the economy of Genesis 3 and 4, marked by curses, worsening conditions, and the replacement of God with idols.</li><li>The way out involves returning to biblical principles and organizing nations according to God's original intentions.</li><li>The current state is described as the church era, with nations varying in their adherence to biblical principles and Providence shaping events since the fall of the Tower of Babel.</li><li>The dispersion of nations allows people to vote with their feet and capital, and adherence to God's principles tends to enrich while violation leads to degradation.</li><li>This natural order serves as a protective limit on the evil in the world, even though the original Edenic intention cannot be fully restored.</li></ul> So how would you then describe where we find ourselves today?<ul><li>The present era is characterized as the "church era" where God's influence operates through the church in various nations.</li><li>Different nations exhibit varying degrees of adherence to biblical principles, with some following, some abandoning, and others moving toward them.</li><li>Since the fall of the Tower of Babel, Providence has shaped the world to limit the power of the powerful and protect the vulnerable.</li><li>God's statement about "nothing these people can't do" implies the potential for harm to - one another in a world.</li><li>The dispersion of nations enables people to vote with their feet and capital, influencing the dynamics of global economics.</li><li>Capital movement, exemplified by money flowing in or out of nations like the United States and Europe, demonstrates how adherence or violation of God's principles can impact economies.</li><li>Following God's principles tends to enrich, while violating them tends to degrade and impoverish, serving as a protective limit on the extent of evil in the world.</li></ul> We can see on full display the evidence of that when we just look at the U.S. taking off like a rocket ship because of our adherence to those principles, right? <ul><li>The evidence of adherence to biblical principles is seen in the rapid growth of the US, surpassing much older nations.</li><li>The US outpaced older nations, including old Europe, despite potential flaws in Christian economics in the latter.</li><li>However, there's a recognition that the US is slowing down due to violations of these principles.</li><li>The world operates in a way where there are inherent consequences for both violating and following these principles, creating a system of punishment and reward.</li></ul> Where do we go from here as the body of Christ and the church? <ul><li>The church is where the desired transformation should take place, following Adam's failure and Israel's shortcomings.</li><li>The dispersion of nations at the Tower of Babel limited the power of individual states to act as gods.</li><li>The ultimate solution is seen in Jesus, the new Adam, who succeeded in the garden where Adam failed, and in Pentecost, where language barriers were overcome.</li><li>The church is described as a nation, a holy nation, and a priestly nation, and it has the capacity to do the right thing independently of the nations.</li><li>There is a contrast between Babel, which moved east and caused language confusion, and Pentecost, where nations moved west and understood each other's languages.</li><li>The church embodies God's ideal economy by prioritizing God, productivity, and generosity, avoiding extremes like the health and wealth gospel.</li><li>The church's productivity is crucial because, without it, there is nothing to share, aligning with God's original intent for His people.</li></ul> We can often be frustrated because we know we have limited impact on the national economy. And yet what we have direct control over is our own personal economy, right?<ul><li>Frustration often arises from the limited impact on the national economy, while individuals have direct control over their personal economies.</li><li>Having agency in one's household and local church can counteract frustration, as it allows for meaningful actions on a small scale.</li><li>The choice is between fretting about national issues with limited impact or acting in the right way on a small scale, creating a model for potential imitation by nations.</li><li>The focus should be on doing what is right, regardless of the scale, as God is responsible for the rise and fall of nations.</li><li>God's command is for the church to be the kind of nation it's meant to be, embodying a holy and priestly identity.</li></ul> What is it going to take for us to get back in line with God's design? <ul><li>To get back in line with God's design, there are a couple of key factors.</li><li>First, the church should serve as a model for handling money better than the world does.</li><li>Secondly, the church should adopt a prophetic role, not only doing the right thing but also speaking truth to the nation.</li><li>Inflation, for example, should be seen as more than just an economic or math problem but as an abomination, echoing God's perspective on unjust weights and measures.</li><li>While voting is part of the process, the real power lies in setting a positive example, preaching the truth, and relying on God's intervention.</li><li>The hope is for America to be restored, not just to its former glory but to a higher moral standard.</li><li>Historical examples, such as Sodom and Gomorrah, show that a nation can be salvageable if there is a prophetic voice, even if it's as small as a group of ten speaking the truth.</li><li>Concern arises when there's no prophetic voice, as that could lead to the nation's downfall, but there is still hope if the church raises its voice more clearly.</li></ul>You can read Jerry Bowyer’s insightful columns for World News Group at <a href="https://wng.org/">WNG.org</a>. On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: <ul><li>How do you determine whether to keep funds in an IRA or move those funds elsewhere?</li><li>What should you consider in deciding whether to take money out of an IRA to build a house? </li></ul> Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the <a href="https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/faith-and-finance/">Moody Radio Network</a> as well as <a href="https://afr.net/podcasts/faith-finance/">American Family Radio</a>. Visit our website at <a href="https://www.faithfi.com/">FaithFi.com</a>where you can join the FaithFi Community, <a href="https://faithfi.netviewshop.com/donate2">and give</a> as we expand our outreach.

God’s economy is quite different from that of the world— and vastly superior. God has a perfect design for how an economy should work, but man corrupted it. Today Jerry Bowyer tells us how to get back to God’s economy, and it starts with the Church.

Following the Money With Jerry Bowyer

Brad Guffey is Chief Medical Director at Family Legacy Missions International where he specializes in treating infectious diseases. Family Legacy is the ministry changing the lives of around 13,000 orphans in Zambia.They do that through a 4-part program: helping children grow academically, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.  The physical and healthcare services that Family Legacy provides to Zambian children have grown tremendously in the last 10 years. <ul><li>Emphasis on pragmatism and efficiency in their approach.</li><li>Belief in being faithful in small tasks.</li><li>Acknowledgment of God's significant impact on their work and the lives of many children.</li><li>Transformation from starting in a tent in a shipping container 10 years ago to a high-quality healthcare facility.</li><li>Active service to several thousand families at any given time.</li></ul> What does medical care look like in Zambia?<ul><li>Zambia presents unique challenges with a population of 20 million, two-thirds of whom are under 25 years old.</li><li>The challenges of healthcare in Zambia include efforts to prevent children from being left uncared for.</li><li>Differences in healthcare include fewer prior authorizations but still dealing with paperwork.</li><li>Seasonal rainy flooding affects access to homes, necessitating home visits.</li><li>Various medical issues are highlighted, including opportunistic infections, cancers from advanced HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, rheumatic fever, heart valve disease, liver cancer due to environmental toxins, and uncommon conditions like lymphatic worms and blood flukes.</li><li>Routine medical problems are also common, often complicated by resource limitations, with severe malnutrition being a frequent issue, often stemming from poverty.</li></ul> Healthcare is absolutely essential before these amazing children can take on any other challenges.<ul><li>Emphasis on the essential role of healthcare for the 13,000 children in their program.</li><li>A comprehensive approach to helping and caring for vulnerable and orphaned children in Zambia is highlighted.</li><li>The mission is to glorify God by empowering these children to realize their God-given potential.</li><li>Acknowledgment of the importance of good health for the children to thrive.</li><li>Positive outcomes are observed, with children accessing modern medicine and receiving care from a dedicated team.</li><li>Despite improvements and modernization, there are still cases where children arrive at the clinic in dire conditions.</li><li>Brad shares an example about a child named Lydia, who overcame severe malnutrition, tuberculosis, seizures, and HIV, now living a healthier and happier life.</li></ul> To learn more and find out how you can help, visit <a href="http://hopeforzambia.com/faithfi">HopeForZambia.com/faithfi</a>.  On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: <ul><li>Does taking a loan from an insurance policy affect your credit? </li><li>Should you put the name of an adult child on a property deed for estate planning purposes to help it pass more easily to them upon the death of the parent? </li><li>Upon the death of a parent, does it make sense to sell the parent’s home and split the proceeds with a sibling? </li><li>What is the best way to start saving money for grandkids? </li><li>Is a home equity line of credit a good way to pay for home improvements? </li></ul> Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the <a href="https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/faith-and-finance/">Moody Radio Network</a> as well as <a href="https://afr.net/podcasts/faith-finance/">American Family Radio</a>. Visit our website at <a href="https://www.faithfi.com/">FaithFi.com</a>where you can join the FaithFi Community, <a href="https://faithfi.netviewshop.com/donate2">and give</a> as we expand our outreach.

“Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers … you did it to me.”  Matthew 25:40.   That verse describes what happens when Christians give of themselves with no expectation of earthly return. Helping the helpless. Today we’ll talk with Brad Guffey about a way you can do that for Zambia’s orphans.

Helping “the Least of These” with Brad Guffey

“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.”  Ephesians 6:11Chris Meyer is Manager of Stewardship Investing Advocacy and Research at Praxis Mutual Funds,  an underwriter of this program.  What exactly is shareholder advocacy and how does Praxis do it?<ul><li>Many people begin by screening or avoiding certain industries or companies based on their values.</li><li>Screening is a valid approach but has limited power to create real change.</li><li>Praxis uses seven different impact strategies for investments.</li><li>Shareholder advocacy is one of these strategies, leveraging ownership rights to drive change.</li><li>Shareholder advocacy includes activities like writing letters, filing proposals, and engaging in dialogues with company management.</li><li>The goal of shareholder advocacy is not to chastise or embarrass companies but to encourage profitability while also promoting positive impact.</li><li>Praxis collaborates with other investors, primarily from the faith community, in their advocacy efforts.</li></ul> How does Praxis work with many other investors, especially the faith community, to advocate for Christian values? <ul><li>Collaboration with others significantly enhances the impact of their work.</li><li>Coalition efforts with various faith-based institutional investors broaden and deepen their reach.</li><li>Companies are more receptive when approached collectively by a coalition.</li><li>Collaborations focus on common interests and shared capacities.</li><li>Example: Praxis collaborates on human rights and child labor issues, while others may focus on pharmaceutical companies and medication affordability.</li><li>Praxis takes leadership roles in some engagements and partners actively in others.</li><li>Prioritization of issues and companies is essential due to limited resources.</li></ul> What kind of preparation goes into this type of engagement? <ul><li>Engagement preparation involves issue prioritization and collaboration with investor partners.</li><li>Teams are formed, leadership structures are established, and goals are set.</li><li>Education and strategy sessions, both in-person and virtual, are organized to become well-informed about relevant topics.</li><li>External expertise is often brought in to enhance understanding.</li><li>Example: Engagement with Target and Walmart on human rights and child labor issues.</li><li>Focus is on encouraging robust human rights policies and supply chain enforcement.</li><li>Pre-engagement research includes reviewing company publications, reports, and industry news.</li><li>Input from human rights experts and NGOs is sought to understand global supply chain issues.</li><li>Thorough preparation is crucial for gaining understanding and credibility in engagement with companies.</li></ul> If company dialogues are central to real change, what do these engagements look like, and what makes an effective conversation or dialogue with a company?<ul><li>Meaningful dialogue with company management is the pinnacle of shareholder advocacy for impactful change.</li><li>Engagement usually starts with an investor letter outlining concerns and requesting dialogue.</li><li>Initial communication may be with investor relations and corporate counsel.</li><li>The goal is to engage with decision-makers overseeing the relevant issue, often vice presidents.</li><li>Dialogues are typically in-person or via video conference, lasting one to two hours or longer.</li><li>Building strong, trusting relationships is crucial.</li><li>Success comes when companies see a vested interest in their future success and the relevance of the concerns raised.</li></ul> So what is the end game? How do you know you've been successful in making meaningful change in supportive kingdom values in these engagements?<ul><li>Setting clear goals and ways to measure success is crucial in advocacy.</li><li>Having a vision of the desired outcome of the dialogue is important.</li><li>Long-lasting engagements can lose meaning without a clear endpoint.</li><li>Avoid being seen as a nuisance by the company or becoming their free consultants.</li><li>Common scenarios for ending dialogues include a company refusing to engage or dismissing concerns.</li><li>In the best case, all goals are met or exceeded, and the engagement transitions to a monitoring phase to ensure commitment follow-through.</li></ul>Learn more about Praxis at <a href="https://www.praxismutualfunds.com/">PraxisMutualFunds.com</a>.  On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: <ul><li>Is there a more affordable way to handle the Medicaid paperwork and power of attorney, given limited financial resources?</li><li>What’s the best way to invest for a child’s future? </li></ul>Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the <a href="https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/faith-and-finance/">Moody Radio Network</a> as well as <a href="https://afr.net/podcasts/faith-finance/">American Family Radio</a>. Visit our website at <a href="https://www.faithfi.com/">FaithFi.com</a>where you can join the FaithFi Community, <a href="https://faithfi.netviewshop.com/donate2">and give</a> as we expand our outreach.

Do you sometimes feel you’re spiritually at war with your own investments? How do you take on corporations that engage in ungodly policies and practices? One way is through something called shareholder advocacy, and we’ll talk with Chris Meyer about that today on Faith and Finance.

Shareholder Advocacy With Chris Meyer

The past few years haven’t been easy for small businesses in the U.S. The pandemic threw the supply chain, the workforce, and the economy into chaos, forcing many small companies to close their doors, and sending workers home by the millions.But small business owners are nothing if not resourceful, and many of you have pivoted into the new realities with determination and creativity. Of course, as Christians in business, we are called to a higher standard.  Colossians 3:23 – 24 says, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”The benefit of tying your business standards to eternal values is that those values don’t change with the whims of culture or economic trends. The end result for Christian employers is a faithful witness to everyone. As Jesus told his disciples in John 15:8, “By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.”Here are a few basic biblical principles that should guide your professional actions and attitudes. GUIDING BIBLICAL PRINCIPLESThis first principle is fundamental, and once you truly get it, the rest makes much more sense. We’re talking about stewardship. In a nutshell, stewardship is what happens when you understand that “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it,” as it says in Psalm 24.So, as business owners and managers, we submit our work, our resources, and our profits to the Lord, because He is really the boss. We can have a kingdom perspective on everything, from hiring, to inventory, to profits and losses.As managers, we turn to Christ, seeking first his kingdom and his righteousness, trusting that he will provide what we need to take care of all the business details. That includes taking care of our families.Ultimately, success or failure in the business becomes God’s problem, while we do our best, letting him take care of the rest.In the post-pandemic business environment, workplace norms have really shifted.  Many workers who left the office to work at home have stayed there. Lots of small businesses are dealing with hybrid workforces that have different sets of expectations.This is where eternal biblical principles can keep you moving in the right direction. Because, once you have God’s authority over your business figured out, you can focus on the horizontal relationships — how you interact with your employees, customers, suppliers, contractors, and competitors.Most importantly, treat everyone with integrity. Deuteronomy 16:19 says, “You shall not distort justice, you shall not be partial, and you shall not take a bribe.” What does that look like in a business context?  Well, pay fair wages, show concern for your employees’ well-being, and treat your customers, contractors, and even your competitors, fairly.According to smallbiztrends.com, workplace expectations have changed in recent years, especially along generational lines. In general, Millennials want a positive workplace culture and flexible schedules, and Gen Z workers value fun even more than money! Maintaining biblical values in your company can help meet the felt needs of every employee.One way to maintain a healthy company culture is to set an example. As a business owner who belongs to Christ, you have an opportunity to demonstrate godly character to those around you. You can do that by pursuing righteous business practices. Here’s how:Be honest. Communicate clearly. Keep your promises, and pursue excellence. As Larry Burkett once said, “There’s nothing more honoring to God than quality service or a quality product from a professing Christian.” Proverbs 22:29 confirms this: “Do you see a man skilled in his work?  He will stand before kings.”As a business owner or manager, you’re in a unique position to have an impact on your community through your generosity and compassion. We pray that you will use your professional resources and influence to further Christ’s kingdom right where you live. On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: <ul><li>Should you add your children as authorized users on our credit card to help them build their credit? </li><li>Is it a good idea to give your kids a debit card tied to their first bank account? </li><li>If one spouse enters a debt management program, does that affect the credit score of the other spouse? </li><li>Does care maintenance insurance make sense? </li><li>What can you do if you’re trying to get a mortgage but your debt-to-income ratio is too high due solely to student loans? </li></ul> RESOURCES MENTIONED:<ul><li><a href="https://www.capitalone.com/bank/checking-accounts/teen-checking-account/?06288_SE002516_Brand_Teen_Checking=&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwl8anBhCFARIsAKbbpyT_s6NCXwg_C3xVhHc48SAE9CFEC3I4e-1dISmJRi6uWbygqHXLYhoaAh9dEALw_wcB&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds">Capital One teen checking</a></li><li><a href="https://www.christiancreditcounselors.org/">Christian Credit Counselors</a>  </li></ul>Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the <a href="https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/faith-and-finance/">Moody Radio Network</a> as well as <a href="https://afr.net/podcasts/faith-finance/">American Family Radio</a>. Visit our website at <a href="https://www.faithfi.com/">FaithFi.com</a>where you can join the FaithFi Community, <a href="https://faithfi.netviewshop.com/donate2">and give</a> as we expand our outreach.

If you’re a Christian who owns or manages a small business – even if you’re just making a few extra bucks on the side, this is for you. Today, we’ll look at what’s changing for small businesses, and, more important, what doesn’t change when you’re following Christ, today on Faith and Finance.

Small Business by the Book

Family financial expert Crystal Paine is the creator of the amazing website <a href="https://moneysavingmom.com/">MoneySavingMom.com</a>. SAVING MONEY WHEN PLANNING A WEDDING The biggest thing is you need a budget. How much money can you realistically devote to paying for this wedding? Really think about your priorities when it comes to that budget.  CREATE A BUDGETCreate a budget by category and then decide what categories you want to prioritize and put a little bit more money in. And in which areas could you live with spending a little less? For example, perhaps you decide that spending a lot of money on professional photography isn’t all that important to you, but you would really like to have nice flowers. Decide ahead of time how to prioritize your resources. And we highly recommend that you do not go into debt!  It’s not worth it. You can simplify your wedding and still have a great marriage. We promise! WHEN TO WED?According to knot.com, about 43% of weddings now take place between September and November. So how does that affect the cost of a wedding?Just remember the laws of supply and demand. If you’re holding your wedding at a really popular time of the year, your costs may increase. Venues, photographers, cake decorators, etc. … all may charge more because demand is higher at that time of year. So if possible, consider holding your wedding outside of those peak months. Perhaps you could consider a December through February wedding date. If you go in the offseason, it's also going to be easier to find service providers as they’re less likely to be booked up. OTHER MONEY-SAVING TIPSCrystal shares that she wore her mom's wedding gown during her wedding. But there are a lot of places online that offer great deals. For instance, David's Bridal offers sales a few times a year with significant discounts. Crystal says she’s seen wedding dresses for as little as $99. So planning ahead can really save you a lot of money there. Also, ask around to see if there’s anyone you know who can actually decorate cakes. There may be someone in your circle of friends, or a friend of a friend, who could help you save a lot of money on your cake. And if you’re willing to hold your wedding at your church, rather than an expensive outside venue, you may be able to save a bundle there as well. Unless you’re planning a super simple wedding, one investment that may be well worth your while is a wedding planner. Crystal shares that hiring a planner was the best investment she made for her wedding. A good planner can take a ton of stress off your plate. But they can also negotiate prices, help you stay within your budget, and may even save you money in the end.  On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: <ul><li>What are the tax implications of giving an adult child a large cash gift? </li><li>Does it make sense to enter into a rent-to-own agreement for a home if your credit isn’t great? </li></ul> Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the <a href="https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/faith-and-finance/">Moody Radio Network</a> as well as <a href="https://afr.net/podcasts/faith-finance/">American Family Radio</a>. Visit our website at <a href="https://www.faithfi.com/">FaithFi.com</a>where you can join the FaithFi Community, <a href="https://faithfi.netviewshop.com/donate2">and give</a> as we expand our outreach.

Unless you’re planning a wedding, you probably had no idea that we’re entering the busiest season of the year for saying, “I do.” Traditionally, June was considered the height of the wedding season, but that’s no longer the case. How does that affect the cost of a wedding and how can you save money on yours? We’ll talk about that with Crystal Paine, today on Faith and Finance.

Save Money On Your Wedding With Crystal Paine

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Join Rob West and special guests as they address today's financial questions with biblical answers.

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