Episodios

  • The Blue Temperament with Kathleen Edelman and Andrew Stanley

    The Blue Temperament with Kathleen Edelman and Andrew Stanley
    Jul 14 2025
    “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.” - 1 Corinthians 14:33We’re continuing our series on temperaments—how our God-given wiring shapes the way we communicate, relate to others, and make financial decisions. Kathleen Edelman is back with us, joined by Andrew Stanley, as we take a closer look at the Blue temperament and its influence on our approach to money.Kathleen Edelman is the author of I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication. She is certified in Biblical Studies and Christian Counseling Psychology and has spent over 30 years coaching clients in the art of effective communication.Andrew Stanley is a nationally touring stand-up comedian who’s been performing across the country since 2016. You can learn more at AndrewStanleyComedy.com. In this episode, he also joins us as our representative for the Blue Temperament.The Four Temperaments in a NutshellBefore diving into blue specifically, Kathleen offers a quick primer on all four temperaments:Yellow (Sanguine) – Extroverted and people-oriented, they speak the language of fun and relationships.Red (Choleric) – Task-oriented extroverts who value power and control.Blue (Melancholic) – Introverted and task-focused, they speak the language of perfection and order.Green (Phlegmatic) – Introverted but people-oriented, seeking peace and harmony.Each temperament influences not just relationships, but also how people handle money, make decisions, and respond under pressure.Blues and the Search for SafetyFor those with a blue temperament, safety isn’t just a preference—it’s a core emotional need. Blues thrive in environments where things are predictable, orderly, and well-organized. They naturally seek clarity, structure, and control to feel secure. When it comes to money, this often means creating detailed budgets, developing long-term plans, and being cautious when making financial decisions without having all the necessary information. Blues may prefer to save rather than spend, not because they’re stingy, but because a growing bank account feels like a safety net against life’s uncertainties. They can struggle with risk and may delay action if they feel unsure, even if the opportunity is wise or time-sensitive.In relationships, this drive for safety shows up in how blues communicate and connect with others. They crave understanding and support but may not always express those needs clearly. Because they process deeply and thoroughly, they often require space and time before responding, especially in moments of conflict or when making big decisions. If rushed or misunderstood, they may withdraw, using silence as a way to regain control or avoid making a mistake. However, when their need for emotional safety is honored through patience, empathy, and clear communication, they can be deeply loyal, thoughtful, and intentional partners. Understanding this temperament helps others engage them with compassion and build stronger, more harmonious relationships.Advice for and About BluesIf you have a blue temperament, give yourself permission to take the time you need to process decisions, especially those involving finances. Your thoughtful, analytical nature is a gift, but it can also lead to overthinking or decision paralysis. Don’t let the desire for perfection keep you from making progress. Instead, set realistic deadlines, seek wise counsel, and remember that not every choice has to be airtight before it’s made. Lean into your strengths—planning, order, and foresight—while also allowing space for joy, spontaneity, and relational connection. A budget isn’t just a safety tool; it can also be a pathway to shared experiences and generous living.For those in a relationship with a blue—whether in marriage, friendship, or at work—understand that their quiet moments are rarely a sign of apathy. Blues often feel deeply but express slowly. They value being understood and respected, especially when making important decisions. Don’t rush them. Instead, provide information clearly and give them time to reflect. Be patient if they seem hesitant or cautious. Underneath that careful exterior is someone who longs for peace, harmony, and purpose. When you honor their need for safety and support, you’ll discover a loyal, wise, and dependable partner who brings depth and stability to any relationship.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My wife and I are carrying about $8,500 in credit card debt, plus a car loan. I’ve been considering opening a new credit card with an introductory 0% interest rate to help us pay it down more quickly. My wife’s grandmother also mentioned a credit card relief program, but I’m worried it might hurt our credit. What’s the best way for us to tackle this debt?Thank you for the financial advice you share on the program. It’s helped me organize my finances, set up separate accounts, and ...
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    25 m
  • Getting Smart About Tax-Free Weekends with Crystal Paine

    Getting Smart About Tax-Free Weekends with Crystal Paine
    Jul 11 2025
    Three words that can make any parent’s wallet flinch: “Back to school.” But there’s a silver lining—especially if your state has a tax-free weekend.For families gearing up for a new school year, those tax holidays can make a real difference. Today, Crystal Paine shares smart, practical ways to get prepared and save money along the way.Crystal Paine is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com and the author of The Money Saving Mom's Budget: Slash Your Spending, Pay Down Your Debt, Streamline Your Life, and Save Thousands a Year. Does Your State Participate?Not every state offers a tax-free weekend, and the rules vary widely from state to state. Crystal recommends checking your state’s Department of Revenue or the Federation of Tax Administrators for up-to-date information.Understand what qualifies, as in some states, clothing must be under $100, and online purchases often count—if ordered and paid for within the specified window. Even if you’re not shopping for back-to-school items, this can still be a good time to purchase other qualifying necessities.Don’t treat the tax-free weekend like a shopping spree. Instead, we suggest that you:Make a list of what your family actually needs.Set a budget—especially if your kids are old enough to be involved (around age 8–10).Know the limits so you don’t go over a price cap and lose the exemption.Stack your savings by searching for coupons or shopping through cashback sites like RetailMeNot.Simply search for the site name and ‘coupon code’ before making a purchase.What About Online Shopping?A common misconception to keep in mind is that if you order and pay during the holiday window, and the item qualifies, it’s usually tax-exempt, even if it ships later. Please ensure it ships to an in-state address.One important caveat to remember is that Amazon may not always participate, and shipping costs may be included in item price caps in some states. Therefore, read the fine print and always check your confirmation receipt to ensure that tax wasn’t accidentally charged.Stewardship Over SavingsThe ultimate goal isn’t just saving money—it’s honoring God. Sometimes we think we’re saving when we’re really just spending less wastefully. But that’s still spending. Ask yourself: Am I buying this because it’s a wise investment, or is it just because it’s on sale?Make prayerful purchases—asking God for wisdom, guidance, and even provision when looking for specific items. God is faithful to lead us when we invite Him into our financial decisions.Good stewardship is about more than just saving money. It’s about aligning our spending with God’s purposes. To learn more and find additional resources, visit MoneySavingMom.com.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’m 63 and still plan to work for a couple more years. My employer has just started offering a Roth 403(b), and I’m wondering—if I'm at my age, does it make sense to contribute?I’m 46 and considering selling my townhome, but I’m unsure if now is the right time. If I do sell, what’s the best way to invest the equity?I took out a home improvement loan in my name to help a friend. Could I qualify for debt forgiveness on that loan?I recently started investing in goldbacks and noticed more states are adopting them. What are your thoughts, and do you think it’s a good time to invest in them?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)The Money Saving Mom's Budget: Slash Your Spending, Pay Down Your Debt, Streamline Your Life, and Save Thousands a Year by Crystal PaineMoneySavingMom.comWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
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  • Investing That Brings Joy with Robin John

    Investing That Brings Joy with Robin John
    Jul 10 2025
    What if your investments could do more than grow your wealth? What if they could also fight injustice, uplift your neighbor, and even bring joy to the world? Joy probably isn’t the first word that comes to mind when you think about investing, but maybe it should be. Robin John joins us today to share how investing can be more than financial—it can be deeply spiritual.Robin John is the CEO at Eventide Asset Management, LLC. Views expressed in this podcast are intended for information purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Eventide does not provide tax, accounting, or legal advice. Eventide's values-based approach to investing may not produce desired results and could result in underperformance compared with other investments. There is no guarantee that any investment will achieve its objectives, generate positive returns, or avoid losses.A Life-Changing Encounter in IndiaRobin was just 23 years old when his employer sent him to Pune, India, to support an outsourcing initiative. Although born in India, he had moved to the U.S. at the age of eight and was returning for the first time as a young professional.While staying in a guesthouse, he noticed two young men—Amal and Kamal—who took care of him daily, preparing meals and ironing his clothes. One evening, Robin asked where they slept and was shocked to learn they were sleeping on the hard floor of a hot, cramped pantry.“I had a beautiful air-conditioned room with extra space,” Robin recalled. “But they had no bed, no pillow, no blanket. And I looked just like them.”When he raised his concerns, he was told the guesthouse workers were not his company’s responsibility. That response, though typical in business, left Robin deeply unsettled. It pushed him into prayer, fasting, and a season of searching. He began to ask: “Is business just about profit? Or could it be something more?”From Disillusionment to a Renewed MindThrough time in Romans 12—“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind”—Robin experienced a major shift in perspective. He began to see that work, business, and investing could all be expressions of love for neighbor and tools for redemptive impact.That shift eventually led him, alongside his friend Dr. Finny Kuruvilla, to launch Eventide Asset Management—an investment firm with a bold mission: to invest in companies that make the world rejoice.What Makes a Company Worth Investing In?Eventide’s approach centers on one key question: Is this company doing good?They look for companies whose products are truly good and whose practices serve others well—employees, customers, supply chains, communities, even the environment. Investing is a form of ownership, and when we invest, we are rooting for that company’s success.But Eventide doesn’t just embrace the good—it also avoids the harmful. In the book, Robin likens harmful companies to dragons that lurk outside the village in ancient stories, threatening human flourishing.Companies profiting from gambling, addiction, or exploitation—like sports betting platforms—may look appealing on a spreadsheet, but Robin challenges us to consider their deeper impact. As Christian investors, we must ask: What are we promoting in the world? Are we fighting the dragons, or feeding them?Cultivating Goodness, Like a GardenFrom the very beginning in Genesis 1, we see that we are called to cultivate, to build, to bring about flourishing. Business and investing can be part of that calling.From companies developing cancer treatments to those honoring their truck drivers by ensuring they can sleep at home with their families, these are the stories of modern cultivation, and they’re the kinds of businesses Eventide champions.A Framework for Faith-Driven InvestingEventide’s “Business 360” framework reflects biblical values and centers on love for neighbor. It seeks to:Avoid companies that cause harm.Embrace companies that promote human flourishing.Engage with companies to encourage positive change.Investors can explore two free tools at GoodInvestor.com:Portfolio Screening Tool – See how your current investments align with biblical values.Advisor Connection Tool – Get connected with a financial advisor who practices faith-aligned investing.Your Investments Can Honor GodRobin’s hope for every reader of his new book, The Good Investor, is that they will walk away inspired, believing their investments can change the world and honor God in the process.You can purchase The Good Investor wherever books are sold. And if you’re ready to explore how your wealth can serve the Lord and bless others, visit GoodInvestor.com to begin your journey.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:You’ve mentioned a specific company when talking about reverse mortgages on past shows. I recall you saying that it’s the one you usually recommend. Can you remind me of the name?My wife and I are both chiropractors, ...
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    25 m
  • Financial Ethics Series: Should Christians Play the Lottery? with Dr. David W. Jones

    Financial Ethics Series: Should Christians Play the Lottery? with Dr. David W. Jones
    Jul 9 2025
    “A faithful man will abound with blessings, but whoever hastens to be rich will not go unpunished.” - Proverbs 28:20Powerball jackpots and scratch-off tickets might seem like a shortcut to financial freedom, but should Christians be buying in? Dr. David W. Jones returns to our financial ethics series today to help us think biblically about the lottery and whether it aligns with a life of faithful stewardship.Dr. David W. Jones is Senior Professor of Christian Ethics at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He holds a Ph.D. in Christian Financial Ethics and is the author of Every Good Thing: An Introduction to the Material World and the Common Good for Christians.Quick Wealth vs. Steady StewardshipProverbs 13:11 warns, “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” Hebrews 13:5 exhorts believers to “keep your life free from the love of money and be content with what you have.” These passages highlight the value of work, patience, and contentment—virtues that stand in direct contrast to the quick-fix allure of lottery winnings.The lottery promises flourishing without labor, but God’s design in Genesis 1 calls us to be co-creators with Him—to work, to produce, and to flourish through effort. Skipping that process isn’t just unwise—it violates God’s design for human flourishing.Is playing the lottery merely harmless entertainment? We should pay close attention to what our financial decisions reveal: Jesus taught, ‘Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also’ (Matt. 6:21). If someone regularly spends money on lottery tickets, it could point to deeper issues—discontentment, greed, or misplaced hope.Scripture reminds us in Proverbs 23:7, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” Our actions—including how we spend—are often the most honest indicators of our spiritual condition.Entertainment or Exploitation?While scratching a ticket at a birthday party may seem harmless, there’s a big difference between a one-time event and a habitual lifestyle of gambling. And even if the act is permissible, that doesn’t make it wise (1 Cor. 10:23).We must also consider the industry behind the lottery. It preys upon the poor. Statistics show that the lowest-income Americans buy more than half of all lottery tickets, with some spending up to 6% of their income. In many ways, it functions like a regressive tax, taking from those who can least afford it.Some believers wonder whether it's ethical to accept scholarships or grants funded by state lotteries. Of course, there’s room for Christian liberty here. Some will choose to opt-out due to conscience. Others will recognize we live in a fallen world and may receive such benefits without directly participating in the system. Either way, we should be aware of what we're engaging with and remain open before the Lord.A Better Way to FlourishIf you're feeling convicted, confess it to the Lord. ‘If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us’ (1 John 1:9). And as with any area of struggle, don’t walk alone. Seek accountability and encouragement through your local church.Ultimately, the Christian life invites us to a different kind of richness—one rooted not in luck or chance but in trust and obedience. As Ecclesiastes 3:13 says, “Everyone should eat and drink and take pleasure in all his toil—this is God's gift to man.”For more biblical insight on wealth and stewardship, pick up Dr. David W. Jones’s book Every Good Thing: An Introduction to the Material World and the Common Good for Christians, available wherever books are sold.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:Around this time last year, I had several credit cards with balances ranging from $5,000 to $6,000 each. I stopped paying on the top three and am still making payments on one. I’m not sure what steps to take next.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Every Good Thing: An Introduction to the Material World and the Common Good for Christians by Dr. David W. JonesWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
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  • Preparing for Life’s Transitions with Sharon Epps

    Preparing for Life’s Transitions with Sharon Epps
    Jul 8 2025
    In C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Aslan tells Lucy, “Things never happen the same way twice.” It’s a good reminder that life brings changes. They’re unavoidable, but how we choose to meet them is up to us. Sharon Epps joins us today with sage advice about preparing for life’s transitions.Sharon Epps is the President of Kingdom Advisors, FaithFi’s parent organization. Kingdom Advisors serves the broad Christian financial industry by educating and equipping professionals to integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.Lessons from NarniaC.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia holds a surprising amount of wisdom for real life. In one poignant scene, Aslan comforts Lucy Pevensie about the changes she and her siblings are facing. “Things never happen the same way twice,” Aslan tells her. Change is constant, and each new season requires fresh wisdom. Even when we’re no longer in school, the rhythms of August to May still shape our lives and planning.When Life Goes Into Transition, Money Goes Into MotionFinancial author Mitch Anthony says it best: “Money goes into motion when life goes into transition.” Whether you’re sending a child off to college, caring for aging parents, or planning a move, each change brings financial decisions with it. Here are five strategies to help us steward these moments well:1. Pray for WisdomEvery new season needs fresh wisdom. You can learn the hard way through pain or the better way through prayer. Proverbs 3:6 reminds us: “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”2. Seek Godly CounselLearn from those who’ve been there. If you’re sending your first child to college, ask parents of graduates what they’d do differently. Their experience can save you time, money, and stress.3. Plan the Financial Details of the TransitionWith college, for example, have you clarified who will cover living expenses? Will your child work part-time? Will you offer a monthly stipend? Define expectations now to avoid confusion later.4. Prepare for the UnexpectedThings rarely go according to plan. What if your child runs out of money mid-semester? Do you have an emergency fund? Thinking through these “what ifs” now builds resilience.5. Communicate Ahead of TimeGood communication brings clarity and accountability. Whether you’re dealing with a child, a spouse, or a realtor, the earlier you clarify financial expectations, the smoother the transition will be.These five practices are simple but powerful. They’ll help you stay grounded through every kind of life change. And remember, God doesn’t just care about what we go through—He cares about how we go through it. Let’s walk into our next season with prayerful wisdom, godly counsel, and faithful stewardship.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’m new to investing and want to understand the basics of the stock market, as well as how to avoid scams.I’m considering buying precious metals to pass on to my children and grandchildren. What’s the best way for them to sell or redeem them in the future?If I give to animal charities, does that count as tithing? Or is tithing meant specifically to support ministries focused on people?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
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  • The Green Temperament with Kathleen Edelman and Rachel Petty

    The Green Temperament with Kathleen Edelman and Rachel Petty
    Jul 7 2025
    “The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception.” — Proverbs 14:8Today, we’re continuing our series on temperaments—how our God-given wiring shapes the way we communicate, relate to others, and make financial decisions. Kathleen Edelman is back with us, joined by Rachel Petty, as we take a closer look at the Green temperament and how it influences our approach to money.Kathleen Edelman is the author of I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication. She is certified in Biblical Studies and Christian Counseling Psychology and has spent over 30 years coaching clients in the art of effective communication.Rachel Petty is a valued member of Kathleen Edelman’s team and is our Green Temperament representative for this episode. What Are the Four Temperaments?The concept of temperaments dates back to Hippocrates, whom Galen followed in naming the four temperaments. Each temperament is a wiring we’re born with—more like eye color than personality—and it shapes how we communicate, relate, and even handle money. The four types are:Yellow (Sanguine): Extrovert, people-oriented; speaks the language of people and fun.Red (Choleric): Extrovert, task-oriented; speaks the language of power and control.Blue (Melancholic): Introvert, task-oriented; speaks the language of perfection and order.Green (Phlegmatic): Introvert, people-oriented; speaks the language of calm and harmony.Temperament is your innate wiring. Personality develops through life experiences, but temperament remains relatively consistent.Meet the Green: Introverted and People-OrientedGreens are known as “relationship glue”—calm in chaos, steady in presence, and always people-conscious. They’re inward processors, but also deeply relational.They are drawn to budgeting with others and long-term planning. They don’t like flashy risks or micromanaging. They prefer round numbers and fewer check-ins.Because Greens crave harmony, they might avoid financial conflict or decisions altogether. But with gentle encouragement and time, they become wise and thoughtful stewards.Strategies That HelpRachel offers practical tools for those who fall under the Green category or know somebody who does:Stay involved. Greens can sometimes disengage easily. It’s a discipline to speak up.Name what matters. Clarifying what’s most important—whether for a trip or a purchase—helps prioritize.Set deadlines. It gives them the gentle nudge that action is needed.Greens thrive when respected and heard. Their insights are valuable—they just need time and space to process them fully.However, don’t pressure a Green. Invite them in gently and clearly. They want to contribute—they just need the right environment.The Innate Needs of a GreenAccording to Kathleen, Greens have four core needs:Harmony – a peaceful environment.Lack of Stress – minimal conflict.Feeling of Worth – appreciation for who they are.Respect – being asked for their input.When these needs are met, Greens are kind, steady, and confident. When ignored, they may retreat or procrastinate.For those in the Green category, take the time to understand what matters to you and lean into your steady nature. And for those in a relationship with a Green—give them time, space, and encouragement. There’s more going on than you might see.And remember this: if you are a Green, your calm is a gift. Advocate for yourself—peace sometimes requires courage. Your voice matters.Want More?If you've found this information valuable, make sure you don’t miss Kathleen’s latest article on temperaments, featured in the newest issue of Faithful Steward magazine. This quarterly publication is a special resource we send to our FaithFi partners—those who support the ministry at a monthly rate of $35 (or more) or an annual rate of at least $400. To become a partner and receive your copy, along with other exclusive benefits, just visit FaithFi.com/Give.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband and I are both in our second marriage, and we have a blended family. His children are grown and financially independent, while mine are still in college. We have different perspectives on how to manage the assets we each brought into the marriage, and we’re unsure how to align our financial approach moving forward. What would you suggest?Is it true that any interest earned from a high-yield savings account must be reported to the federal government for tax purposes?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)I Said This, You Heard That: How Your Wiring Colors Your Communication by Kathleen EdelmanWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (...
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  • The Power of Financial Commitment: Trusting God with Every Dollar

    The Power of Financial Commitment: Trusting God with Every Dollar
    Jul 4 2025
    Getting fit takes willpower. Earning a degree takes determination. Reaching your career goals takes hard work. In short, success takes commitment.And the same is true when it comes to your finances. Today, we’ll explore what changes when you commit to managing money God’s way.You’ve heard the saying, “Things worth doing are worth doing well.” And when it comes to your finances, there are certainly some things worth doing—like saving for the future, creating a spending plan, paying down debt, giving generously, and living with honesty and integrity.If you want to see real results in any area of life, it’s going to take effort—sometimes a lot of it. And that’s true for your financial life, too. Following biblical financial principles takes determination, planning, patience, and even sacrifice. So, why is it worth the effort?Because while commitment requires something of us, it also gives something to us. When we live with faith and integrity in our finances, we experience peace, contentment, and even joy. It’s not just about doing the right thing—it’s about being transformed more and more into who God wants us to be.Joining God in His WorkWhen you honor Him with your finances, you join in His work, bringing mercy and blessing to others. And as you experience His provision personally, your faith deepens, and your story becomes a testimony to encourage others.The Bible is filled with examples of faithful commitment. Hebrews chapter 11 is sometimes called the “Hall of Faith” because it highlights men and women who trusted God, even when they couldn’t see the outcome. Abraham, Moses, Rahab—they placed their hope in God’s promises before Christ ever came.But the ultimate example of commitment is Jesus Himself. Hebrews 12:2 says:“For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”A Savior who gave everything to redeem us is more than worthy of our full devotion in return.Faith lies at the heart of such a commitment, especially when it comes to finances. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as:“Confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”That means trusting God’s promises, even when circumstances feel uncertain.Who’s Really in Charge?So, committing to manage money God’s way starts with faith, but it also requires surrender. That means asking: who’s really in charge—me, or the Lord?In Matthew 6:24, Jesus says:“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”That’s a heavy reminder for all of us. We can’t be fully committed to both God and money. One will always take priority, and when it’s not the Lord, we will feel that tension.Here are a few honest questions to consider:Do financial worries consume your thoughts?Do you find yourself chasing more and more money, more stuff, more status?Is your sense of security tied to your job or investments?If you answered yes to any of those, you’re not alone. Many of us wrestle with divided hearts. It’s easy to lean on what we can see, especially when life feels uncertain. But money, career, or comfort can never offer the lasting peace only God provides.Choosing to follow God’s financial principles takes daily trust and perseverance. Galatians 6:9 offers this encouragement:“Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”Another gift of commitment is the encouragement we receive from God’s people. You weren’t meant to follow Jesus—or manage your finances—on your own.Colossians 3:12–15 paints a powerful picture of Christian community:“As God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience… Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.”If you’ve ever felt like giving up on your budget or putting off your giving goals, you’re not alone—we all face struggles. But if everything were easy, we’d never grow stronger.Walking With YouThat’s why we’re here at FaithFi—to walk alongside you. Whether you’re just starting out or have walked this path for a long time, we want to offer help rooted in grace, wisdom, and truth.Most of all, we want you to experience the joy of following Jesus with every part of your life, including your finances. Because true freedom doesn’t come from having more—it comes from trusting the One who gave everything for you.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I turned 65 in March and am now eligible for Medicare; however, I remain employed and have employer-sponsored health insurance that includes an HSA, which I continue to contribute to. I’ve received conflicting information—can I delay Medicare enrollment and still have both my employer and I contribute to ...
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    25 m
  • Being Rooted in Christ, Not Riches

    Being Rooted in Christ, Not Riches
    Jul 3 2025
    “He who has ears, let him hear.” – Matthew 13:9Those were Jesus’ closing words after telling the Parable of the Sower—a story that invites us to listen carefully, not just with our ears, but with our hearts. Today, we’ll look at this story and what it reveals about the heart behind our finances, especially the warning about “the deceitfulness of riches”.The Parable of the Sower and the State of Our HeartsThe Parable of the Sower appears in Matthew 13, Mark 4, and Luke 8. It begins with a farmer scattering seed, which falls on four types of soil. Jesus later explains that the seed is the Word of God, and the soils represent different heart conditions. Some hearts are hard, others shallow. Some are fertile and ready. But one soil in particular draws our attention today: the seed that fell among thorns.In Matthew 13:22, Jesus says,“As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.”Understanding the Thorns: Worry and WealthLet’s break that down.First, Jesus points to "the cares of the world"—the daily anxieties and distractions that can crowd out our trust in God. Then, He adds “the deceitfulness of riches.” It’s not wealth itself that’s the issue. It’s the lie wealth tells: that more money will bring more peace, that possessions equal security, and that success means significance.The Bible consistently warns us about that lie:Proverbs 11:28 — “Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like a green leaf.” 1 Timothy 6:17 — “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God.”Wealth deceives us by offering the illusion of control and independence. It tempts us to believe we’re self-sufficient. And when we buy that lie, we slowly stop depending on God. Like thorns in a garden, worldly cares and the lure of wealth take root in our hearts, slowly crowding out our affection for God. The space once reserved for trust and obedience becomes overrun with distraction and self-reliance.As C.S. Lewis put it:“Prosperity knits a man to the world. He feels that he is 'finding his place in it,' while really it is finding its place in him.”Time for a Heart CheckYou might be saving diligently, investing wisely, and even giving regularly. But if you’re trusting in your portfolio more than God’s promises—or if your finances have become a source of anxiety—then it may be time to do a heart check. What kind of soil are you cultivating?When unexpected expenses hit, what comes first—prayer or panic? When you think about the future, is your hope grounded in your retirement account or in the One who holds all things together?Jesus said the seed among thorns becomes “unfruitful.” The Word doesn’t lose its power, but when wealth and worry take over our hearts, we stop responding to it. Outwardly, we may look faithful, but inwardly, our love for Him is being choked out. So, how do we respond?Jesus points to the solution just a few verses later. In Matthew 13:23, He says:“The good soil is the one who hears the word and understands it; he indeed bears fruit and yields.”Receiving God’s Word deeply isn’t a one-time event—it’s a lifelong process of cultivating the soil of our hearts. It means creating space where God’s truth can take root, thrive, and grow, without being overtaken by competing desires.Three Practices to Cultivate “Good Soil”Prioritize Your Giving—Start with generosity, not as an afterthought, but as an act of worship. Giving reminds us that money is not our master and that we trust God to provide for us. Check Your Emotional Temperature—If your peace rises and falls with your financial circumstances, that’s a signal to lean into God’s Word more than your wallet. Rethink Your Financial Goals—Ask Yourself: What Am I Building? And why? Is your financial plan aligned with Kingdom purposes, or is it just chasing comfort or status?As Dallas Willard said, “The main thing God gets out of your life is the person you become.” That includes how you handle money. Generosity, peace, and contentment are fruits of a life rooted in Christ, not one choked out by wealth.What Are You Trusting In?Remember that the condition of your heart matters more than the condition of your accounts. If you want to be fruitful in your finances and faithful in your walk with God, start by asking: What am I trusting in?Let the answer lead you back to Christ, because only in Him will your life bear lasting fruit.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I own a two-flat apartment building valued at around $650,000. We’ve received an offer and are considering buying another building listed at $640,000 in a different area. Since I’ve never sold a property before, I’d like to understand the ...
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