Episodios

  • The Money on Purpose Conference with Brian Holtz
    Feb 13 2026
    What happens when we stop drifting financially and start stewarding intentionally?When God’s purposes shape our financial decisions, money takes its rightful place—not as a source of identity or security, but as a tool that brings clarity, freedom, and faithful living. That conviction is at the heart of our conversation today with Brian Holtz, CEO of Compass Financial Ministry, about an upcoming gathering designed to help believers live it out in practical ways.Why Purpose Matters When It Comes to MoneyBrian explains that the idea for the conference begins with a familiar phrase: money is just a tool. While that’s true, tools are always created with intention. A hammer isn’t good or bad—but it’s designed for a specific purpose. When we don’t understand what money is for, we risk using it indiscriminately, assuming every financial decision is wise simply because it seems practical.Scripture calls us to something better: stewardship shaped by God’s design. When we understand His purposes for money, our decisions become clearer—and our faithfulness more intentional.Introducing Money on PurposeThat’s the vision behind Money on Purpose, Compass Financial Ministry’s global conference happening February 26–28, 2026, in Orlando.Over three days, attendees will experience:Christ-centered worshipTeaching rooted in ScriptureFellowship with believers seeking to steward God’s resources faithfullyEach keynote explores a specific purpose of money through a biblical story or character from both the Old and New Testaments, followed by workshops focused on real-life application.One of Compass's strengths has always been its ability to make biblical stewardship accessible, regardless of where someone is on their financial journey. This conference reflects that same heart.Whether you’re a young adult seeking guidance, a parent shaping financial values at home, or a church leader looking to integrate stewardship into discipleship, Money on Purpose is designed to meet you where you are.Workshop topics range from biblically grounded investing to navigating economic uncertainty—all anchored in God’s Word.What often surprises attendees most, Brian notes, is how comprehensively Scripture speaks to modern financial questions. When people realize their real concerns are addressed in God’s Word, something shifts.Just as powerful is the community. Being surrounded by like-minded believers moves the experience beyond information toward transformation. People leave not only knowing what to do, but encouraged, supported, and eager to see God work through their obedience.What Participants Walk Away WithCompass’s mission is simple but profound: to help people grow closer to Jesus, live free to serve Him, and help fund the Great Commission.Those who attend Money on Purpose leave with:A clearer understanding of God’s financial principlesA practical plan to live them outA community of believers committed to walking togetherThat’s what purposeful stewardship is ultimately about.When we handle money on purpose—God’s purpose—we discover greater freedom, direction, and joy in stewarding what belongs to Him.To learn more or register for the Money on Purpose conference, visit CompassFinancialMinistry.org, where you’ll find full details on sessions, workshops, and the event schedule.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband and I are debt-free and saving for retirement through a mix of Roth and traditional accounts. I’m a state employee with deferred compensation options. A friend is urging us to buy a whole life insurance policy as an investment. Is that a wise choice, or could we be getting bad advice?I’m calling on behalf of a friend in Colorado who needs cash flow and has equity in her home. She’s single and a senior, and I thought a reverse mortgage might help—but she says it’s not an option. Are reverse mortgage rules different by state or age, and who could help her explore this?I’m retired military and run a side business that earns over $100,000 a year. I live on about half, and I’m doing well. I’m considering paying off my home and possibly buying a second one. How do I know when enjoying what I have crosses into greed rather than faithful stewardship?Once I pay off a credit card, should I keep it open or close it to protect my credit score? And if it has an annual fee, what’s the best way to handle that?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Compass Financial MinistryYour Money Counts: Money on Purpose Conference 2026Movement MortgageOur Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful StewardshipWisdom 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)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) ...
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    25 m
  • Choosing a Bank That Serves Your Needs and Faith with Aaron Caid
    Feb 12 2026
    Banking isn’t usually the first place we think about living out our faith. Yet for many believers, where we bank is becoming an important part of faithful stewardship. Financial institutions don’t just hold our money—they decide how it’s used, invested, and leveraged for impact.That’s why faith-based banking is gaining attention. It offers Christians an opportunity to align everyday financial decisions with deeper convictions about money, integrity, and service.Today, we sat down with Aaron Caid, Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU) and AdelFi, to talk about why believers may want to reconsider where they bank—and what truly matters when evaluating a financial institution.Start With the Basics: Stewardship Still Requires ExcellenceBefore talking about faith alignment, there’s a practical reality we can’t ignore: a bank still needs to do its job well.Good stewardship requires systems that are secure, efficient, and reliable. Strong digital tools, responsive customer service, and clear processes aren’t luxuries—they’re necessities. A banking partner should simplify your financial life, not complicate it with friction, confusion, or outdated technology. In other words, expecting excellence from your bank isn’t selfish. It’s wise.Once the basics are covered, a deeper question emerges: Does this institution share your values?Every bank makes decisions about how money is used and where it’s invested. Those choices reflect a worldview—whether explicit or not. Faith-aligned banking starts from a biblical understanding of stewardship, integrity, and service, recognizing that money is a tool entrusted by God, not an end in itself.Where we bank, then, quietly reflects what we believe about the purpose of money.Faith That Shows Up in ActionOne of the distinctives of organizations like Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU) and AdelFi is that faith doesn’t remain a mission statement—it’s lived out through tangible generosity.Collectively, these organizations have more than 125 years of supporting Christian ministries, missionaries, church-planting efforts, and disaster relief. Together, they’ve given millions of dollars toward Christ-centered work around the world.Their impact goes beyond large-scale initiatives. Recent efforts include:Supporting financial discipleship resources for married couples, addressing one of the leading contributors to marital stress and divorce.Partnering with members to contribute over $10,000 to Operation Christmas Child, serving children in need, and sharing the love of Christ.Investing earnings back into members through better rates and lower fees—while also tithing corporately to support gospel work.This is what it looks like when banking becomes a shared mission rather than a purely transactional relationship.Red Flags That May Signal It’s Time to Reconsider Your BankRegardless of where you bank today, there are warning signs that may indicate your institution isn’t serving you—or your values—well:Unclear or high fees that quietly erode your savingsOutdated technology that complicates everyday money managementPoor access to real people when problems ariseBusiness practices or investments that conflict with your Christian convictionsFeeling like a number, rather than a valued customerThese issues don’t just affect convenience—they affect stewardship.What the AdelFi Transition Means for MembersWith the merger of Christian Community Credit Union and AdelFi, members are already seeing expanded services, greater reach, and enhanced capabilities. The combined organization will soon operate under the AdelFi Christian Banking brand, positioning it as the largest Christian banking solution of its kind.The goal is simple: better serve individuals, families, churches, ministries, and Christian-owned businesses—while amplifying Kingdom impact.When financial services function well and align with your faith, your money can serve both your everyday needs and God’s Kingdom purposes.As a special opportunity for Faith & Finance listeners, you can earn up to a $400 bonus when opening a qualifying high-yield checking or savings account—or a Visa cash back card.Visit FaithFi.com/Banking and enter code “FAITHFI” to learn more.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’ve heard that Social Security limits how much you can have in savings—$2,000 for singles and $3,000 for couples—or you could lose benefits. Is that true?I’m 66 and will soon qualify for full Social Security, but I plan to keep working. I have about $45,000 in savings and am hesitant to invest it in the stock market given current market conditions. What should I do with that money?I want to honor God through generosity, but I give so much that my account sometimes goes negative. I still want to help people in need, but I know I need more wisdom and self-control. How can I balance generosity with saving, and are there any resources...
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    25 m
  • Renting vs. Homeownership: What You Need to Know
    Feb 11 2026
    Scripture reminds us that wisdom often begins with counting the cost. As the average age of a first-time homebuyer approaches 40, many people are asking an important and sincere question: Is now the right time to buy a home—or should we continue renting?That question usually reflects a desire to make a wise, lasting decision—one that supports long-term stability rather than undermining it. Before comparing monthly payments or imagining life in a new space, it’s worth taking a clear-eyed look at what it truly costs to move from renting into homeownership.The Upfront Costs Many First-Time Buyers MissOne of the biggest surprises for first-time buyers is the sheer cost of getting into a home. The pre-approval and closing process involves numerous expenses, including appraisals, inspections, credit reports, earnest money, title searches, loan origination fees, and closing costs. Taken together, these can add up to thousands of dollars before move-in day ever arrives.For renters transitioning to homeownership, these costs are typically paid out of pocket. That’s one reason many advisors encourage having close to 20% of the purchase price available—not only for a down payment, but to create margin for the entire process. This isn’t about delaying dreams unnecessarily; it’s about ensuring homeownership doesn’t begin with financial strain.Many renters feel a growing weariness with paying rent month after month, especially compared with building equity. That desire for something tangible and lasting is understandable—but it’s important to remember that rent is not wasted money.Rent pays for shelter, safety, maintenance, and predictability. It meets a real and ongoing need and, in that sense, pays for a valuable service. During certain seasons of life, that flexibility and stability can be a wise and intentional choice.Understanding What a Mortgage Really IncludesIt’s also helpful to understand how a mortgage payment actually works. A typical payment includes principal, interest, property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and often private mortgage insurance if you own less than 20% of the home’s value. In some cases, HOA fees are also added.In the early years of a traditional 30-year mortgage, a significant portion of each payment goes toward interest rather than reducing the loan balance. Thirty-year mortgages can still be wise—they keep payments manageable and allow flexibility if you want to make extra principal payments—but they are designed to be long-term loans. Early equity growth often comes more from market appreciation than from paying down the balance.Rising home prices can create fear about waiting too long, pushing buyers to act before they’re ready. While market trends are worth paying attention to, they shouldn’t be the deciding factor. A home should fit your current season of life and support your responsibilities and priorities—not stretch your finances or limit your ability to live and give faithfully.It also helps to release the pressure of finding a “forever home.” On average, first-time buyers stay in their homes seven to ten years. Career changes, growing families, and life transitions often make moving a natural part of the journey. The first home simply needs to perform well in the current season.Rising Costs Don’t Disappear with OwnershipRising rents are another common frustration, especially when lease renewals result in higher monthly costs. But owning a home doesn’t eliminate rising expenses. While a fixed-rate mortgage keeps principal and interest steady, property taxes and homeowner’s insurance typically increase over time. Even after a mortgage is paid off, those costs remain.Maintenance is another reality worth considering. Once you own a home, repairs are your responsibility—roofs, plumbing, electrical systems, and heating or cooling issues can bring unexpected expenses. While insurance offers protection, deductibles and coverage limits often mean high out-of-pocket costs, and filing claims may lead to higher premiums later.Renting, by contrast, offers predictability. Repairs are the landlord's responsibility, which can provide stability during periods of debt reduction or saving. The phrase house poor exists for a reason. Buying before you’re ready can strain budgets, limit generosity, and leave you feeling trapped rather than thankful.While homeownership can be a blessing, it’s not a measure of faithfulness—and it isn’t right for every situation. Sometimes, the wisest choice is to continue renting, patiently preparing for what comes next, and trusting that God’s timing is often kinder than our urgency.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’d like to understand what an irrevocable trust is and how it works.I have $30,000 I’d like to invest outside of real estate. I won’t need the money for about 10 years. Where would you recommend investing it?I took out high-interest loans to pay for my wife’s dental ...
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    25 m
  • How Counterfeit Verses Distort Stewardship with Taylor Standridge
    Feb 10 2026
    Counterfeits are dangerous precisely because they look convincing. The same is true of spiritual sayings that sound biblical but quietly distort how we think about God, stewardship, and money.Many believers can quote phrases that feel deeply spiritual—comforting even—but when placed under the light of Scripture, they don’t actually appear there at all. Or worse, they twist what Scripture truly says. These “counterfeit verses” often shape how we view success, risk, provision, and dependence on God without us even realizing it.To explore this issue, we sat down with Taylor Standridge, Production Manager of FaithFi and a regular contributor to Faithful Steward. Taylor is also the lead writer behind Look at the Sparrows and Our Ultimate Treasure. In his recent article, Counterfeit Verses: How to Spot The Sayings That Aren’t in the Bible, Taylor traces this problem all the way back to the beginning.“Did God Really Say?”—The First CounterfeitTaylor begins in Genesis 3, when the serpent approaches Eve with a deceptively subtle question: “Did God really say…?” (Genesis 3:1).This moment is critical because the enemy doesn’t begin with an outright lie. Instead, he distorts what God has said and, in doing so, undermines God’s character. The implication isn’t merely that the command is questionable—but that God Himself may be withholding something good.Once Adam and Eve doubt God’s goodness, disobedience follows naturally.That same pattern persists today. Many modern financial lies—whether cultural narratives or counterfeit verses—aren’t blatant falsehoods. They’re half-truths. They sound wise. They feel spiritual. And because they’re close enough to the truth, they feel safe.Like a ship that veers off course by only one degree, the deviation seems harmless at first. But over time, it leads somewhere very different from what was intended.At the heart of every counterfeit is the same ancient question: Can God really be trusted?Counterfeit verses don’t come with warning labels. They borrow biblical language, appeal to our emotions, and speak to real desires—hope, comfort, identity, and security.Sometimes they even quote Scripture, but rip it out of context.The danger isn’t familiarity with Scripture—it’s fragmented familiarity. When we know verses as slogans rather than as part of God’s larger story, we become vulnerable to subtle distortions. The goal, however, isn’t suspicion or cynicism. It’s discernment—learning to recognize when a truth has been nudged just slightly off course.Studying the Real Thing: A Lesson from Counterfeit CurrencyTaylor uses a powerful illustration from the film Catch Me If You Can. Frank Abagnale Jr. succeeds as a forger not by inventing fake money from scratch, but by studying the real thing in obsessive detail—down to the ink, paper, and watermarks.Ironically, that expertise later makes him invaluable to the FBI.Banks don’t train tellers by showing them every possible fake. They train them by handing them genuine currency until authenticity becomes instinctive.The same is true of Scripture. Discernment doesn’t come from memorizing every error—it comes from knowing God’s Word so deeply that when something sounds “almost right,” you can feel that it isn’t.Common Counterfeit Verses That Shape Our View of Money“Money is the Root of All Evil”This misquote radically reshapes our theology of money. If money itself is evil, then wealth becomes suspicious, and stewardship feels compromising.But Scripture says something far more searching: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils” (1 Timothy 6:10).The issue isn’t possession—it’s devotion. Scripture doesn’t demonize money; it disciples our hearts.“God Helps Those Who Help Themselves”This phrase flips the gospel upside down. It places self-sufficiency at the center and turns God into a backup plan.Biblically, grace always comes first. God meets us in our need, not our strength. Stewardship, then, isn’t self-rescue—it’s dependence. Jesus says it plainly: “Apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).“God Won’t Give You More Than You Can Handle”This saying sounds comforting, but it places the burden of endurance squarely on our shoulders.Paul tells a different story: “We were so utterly burdened beyond our strength… so that we would not rely on ourselves but on God” (2 Corinthians 1:8–9).God often allows what we cannot handle so that we learn to rely on Him.“Let Go and Let God”This phrase requires nuance. Scripture does call us to trust—but never to passive disengagement.Faith and obedience always move together. Noah builds. Abraham goes. Ruth works. Grace empowers action; it doesn’t replace it. As J. I. Packer once said, the Christian motto isn’t “Let go and let God,” but “Trust God and get going.”Growing in Discernment Without FearDiscernment begins with familiarity. Counterfeits thrive when ...
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    25 m
  • Money In Marriage: It’s a Matter of Value with Shaunti Feldhahn
    Feb 9 2026
    What would you call a marriage where spouses see “eye to eye” about money? Some might call it bliss.It’s true that most couples at least occasionally quarrel about their finances. But could a better understanding of each other’s values help spouses avoid that bickering? Shaunti Feldhahn thinks so, and she joins us today to talk about it.Shaunti Feldhahn is a Harvard graduate, former Wall Street analyst, social researcher, best-selling author, and a prominent public speaker. She is the co-author of Thriving in Love and Money: 5 Game-Changing Insights about Your Relationship, Your Money, and Yourself, written with her husband, Jeff, and has co-authored several other books with him, revealing impactful truths about relationships at home and in the workplace.A Lesson Learned Over DinnerShaunti and her husband, Jeff, learned this lesson early in their marriage. Living in New York, they often ate out due to their demanding schedules. However, a seemingly small issue—ordering a Diet Coke—would trigger recurring arguments. Jeff, concerned about their financial future and mounting student loan debt, saw the expense as unnecessary, while Shaunti viewed it as a simple enjoyment that enhanced her meal.It wasn't until years later, during their research for their book Thriving in Love & Money, that they realized their conflict stemmed from differing values. Jeff prioritized financial security, while Shaunti valued the experience and enjoyment of a meal. Once they uncovered this, they could communicate more effectively and honor each other's perspectives.The Root of Money Conflicts in MarriageFinancial disagreements often arise because couples fail to recognize and respect each other's values. In Shaunti and Jeff’s national study, they found that:67% of couples in financial conflicts believe their perspective is the logical one.Couples often perceive their spouse’s spending habits as irrational simply because they prioritize different things.For example, one spouse might see value in spending money on a gym membership for networking and health benefits, while the other might believe household essentials from Costco are a better use of resources. The key takeaway? Neither perspective is wrong—both are rooted in deeply held values.The Power of CommunicationThe solution to money conflicts isn’t just budgeting or financial planning; it’s communication. It’s crucial that couples discuss not just what they want to spend money on, but why it matters to them.By having open and honest conversations about financial priorities, couples can:Build mutual understanding and trust.Find compromises that respect both perspectives.Create a financial plan that aligns with their shared goals and values.While couples can work through these issues on their own, it can be very beneficial to seek guidance from financial advisors—especially those with a biblical perspective. Kingdom Advisors, for example, are trained to address not just the numbers, but the relational and spiritual aspects of money management.Advisors can help couples navigate tough conversations, align their financial goals with their values, and ultimately steward their resources in a way that honors God and strengthens their marriage.At the heart of every financial decision in marriage lies an opportunity to foster unity rather than division. God cares just as much about the marriage as He does about the finances. By understanding and honoring each other’s values, couples can turn money from a source of conflict into an instrument of peace and purpose.————————————————————————————————Shaunti Feldhahn’s full article, “Money in Marriage: It’s a Matter of Value,” appears in the 1st issue of Faithful Steward magazine. When you become a FaithFi Partner with a monthly gift of $35 (or $400 annually), you’ll receive Faithful Steward magazine and other exclusive resources to help you grow as a faithful steward. Visit FaithFi.com/Partner to learn more.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My husband and I sold a property, paid off all our debt except our mortgage, and I’m rebuilding my savings after a $14,000 home project. Once my savings are fully restored, should I start investing? And if so, should I invest all of it or just a portion? I’d be looking at about $112,000, but I’m cautious and not experienced with investing.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Thriving in Love and Money: 5 Game-Changing Insights about Your Relationship, Your Money, and Yourself by Shaunti and Jeff FeldhahnOur Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful StewardshipWisdom 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)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in ...
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    25 m
  • How to Choose a Trustworthy Tax Preparer This Season
    Feb 6 2026
    The holidays are behind us; you know what that means—it’s tax season! But before you start gathering your W-2s and receipts, there’s an important question: Do you know who will prepare your taxes this year?With a nationwide shortage of Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and tax professionals, waiting too long to find a preparer could leave you scrambling—and vulnerable to scams. Here’s how to protect yourself and find a trusted tax preparer.Who Can Prepare Your Taxes?When hiring a tax professional, your preparer will likely fall into one of three categories:Certified Public Accountant (CPA): These professionals undergo rigorous education, exams, and licensing requirements. Many specialize in tax preparation and can also provide broader financial guidance.Enrolled Agent (EA): Licensed by the IRS, EAs are tax experts who can prepare and file returns, represent clients before the IRS, and provide tax planning services.Tax Attorney: These legal professionals specialize in tax law and are particularly useful for complex tax situations, audits, or disputes.Each of these professionals is highly qualified—but the problem is there aren’t enough of them.There is a growing shortage of CPAs and tax professionals, largely due to fewer young people entering the field. One of the major "Big Four" firms, KPMG, continues to offer high school students internships at $22 an hour to encourage them to become CPAs.What does this mean for you?Longer wait times to book a tax preparerHigher fees due to increased demandGreater risk of falling into the hands of fraudulent preparersWhen people are desperate to file their returns, they can become easy targets for scammers who fake credentials or engage in tax fraud.How to Avoid Tax Scams and Find a Qualified PreparerTo protect yourself, follow these IRS-recommended steps when choosing a tax preparer:1. Choose a Year-Round Tax PreparerA reputable preparer should be available year-round. You don’t want your tax preparer to disappear if you get audited.2. Verify Their IRS CredentialsAsk for the IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). All paid tax return preparers must register with the IRS and enter their PTIN on every return they file.Check their status using the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers at IRS.gov.3. Look for Professional CredentialsAsk if the preparer holds a credential such as:CPA (Check with the State Board of Accountancy)Enrolled Agent (Verify at IRS.gov under "Verify Enrolled Agent Status")Tax Attorney (Confirm with their State Bar Association)Additionally, inquire about continuing education, as tax laws change frequently; professionals should stay current.4. Be Cautious About FeesBeware of tax preparers who:Charge fees based on a percentage of your refundClaim they can get you a larger refund than competitorsA legitimate preparer should charge a flat or hourly rate based on the complexity of your return.5. Verify IRS E-File CapabilityMost tax preparers handling more than 10 clients must file electronically. If your preparer refuses to e-file, that’s a red flag.6. Ensure Proper DocumentationA trustworthy tax preparer will ask for the following:Your W-2 and 1099 forms (not just a pay stub)Records of deductions and creditsIf a preparer doesn’t ask for supporting documents, walk away. The IRS requires proper documentation to verify your return.7. Understand Representation RulesOnly CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and tax attorneys can represent you before the IRS if you're audited. Non-credentialed tax preparers—including your math-savvy cousin Bill—cannot represent you in an audit.8. Never Sign a Blank or Incomplete Tax ReturnPlease review your return carefully before signing. Ensure all information is accurate, and ask questions if anything appears incorrect.9. Your Refund Should Go to You—Not the PreparerCheck the routing and account number on your tax return to ensure your refund is deposited into your own account, not your preparer’s.Looking for a Faith-Based Financial Professional?If you want to work with a tax professional who aligns with biblical financial principles, consider finding a CPA, Enrolled Agent, or tax attorney with the Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®) designation. To find a trusted, faith-based tax professional, visit FindaCKA.com. With tax season here, choosing a reputable, qualified tax preparer is more important than ever. Don’t wait until the last minute—start your search today to avoid scams and ensure your taxes are filed accurately and ethically.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have long-term care insurance and want to know if it covers assisted living, and for how long. Also, how expensive are these policies—what’s the range?I’m 45 and looking to buy a house with a 30-year mortgage. Is that a wise move since I’d be nearing retirement by the time it’s paid off?I’m remodeling our bathroom for my husband, who has Parkinson’s, and it will cost about $25,000–$30,000...
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    25 m
  • What to Know About Faith-Based ETFs with Brian Mumbert
    Feb 5 2026
    Faith-based investing has expanded dramatically in recent decades. What began as a niche concept—often misunderstood or difficult to implement—has grown into a global movement driven by conviction, transparency, and a renewed understanding of stewardship. Today, new tools are opening fresh doors for Christians who want their investing to reflect biblical values.Among the most discussed innovations are exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which offer investors greater flexibility and access. To explore the growing opportunity, we spoke with Brian Mumbert, President of Timothy Plan and a long-time pioneer in Faith-Based Investing.From Idea to Movement: The Story Behind Timothy PlanBefore ETFs and portfolio screens were commonplace, Timothy Plan helped shape the language and frameworks believers use today to think about investing.“Back in the early 90s, Timothy Plan was really just an idea,” Mumbert recalls. “In 1994, that idea became a mutual fund aimed to serve non-denominational pastors. Our very first slogan asked, ‘How much is okay to invest in abortion or pornography?’ And the answer is simple—none.”The motivation wasn’t merely strategic—it was theological. It pushed Christians to wrestle with a deeper question: If God owns it all, how would He want us to invest what He has entrusted to us?Over time, what began as a single fund evolved into a broader conversation about alignment between faith, stewardship, and financial markets. Three decades later, Mumbert describes Faith-Based Investing not merely as a strategy, but as a movement—one that begins “with the heart” and calls believers to steward God’s resources rather than treat them as their own.What’s Driving the Momentum Today?While conviction hasn’t changed, the landscape around investing has. Mumbert points to one factor in particular: information.“When we started, it was incredibly hard to access meaningful information about companies—what they owned, where they profited, or whether their business practices aligned with biblical values,” he explains. Today, the opposite is true. Digital media, public disclosures, and social platforms constantly reveal what companies support and how they operate.That transparency has awakened discernment. Investors are asking new questions: What am I participating in? What am I profiting from? Is there a better alternative?With more options now available—across asset classes and risk profiles—momentum continues to build.ETFs Explained: Why They’re Attracting Faith-Based InvestorsAmong the fastest-growing vehicles in the investing world are ETFs—exchange-traded funds. For those less familiar, Mumbert offers a simple explanation:“ETFs hold a basket of investments and trade throughout the day like a stock. They generally offer lower fees, greater transparency, and the ability to buy or sell at any point during the trading day.”Mutual funds remain a valuable entry point for many investors, but ETFs introduce distinctive advantages:Lower average costsPassive, rules-based strategiesReal-time liquidityFull disclosure of holdingsEase of access across platformsAnd most importantly for Faith-Based Investing, greater transparency reinforces values alignment.What Sets Timothy Plan’s ETFs Apart?While the vehicle may be new, the convictions behind Timothy Plan’s offerings remain unchanged.“Every Timothy Plan product is pro-life and pro-family,” Mumbert emphasizes. “Our ETFs are screened and filtered the same way as our mutual funds. The convictions haven’t changed—just the investment vehicle.”Timothy Plan also employs volatility-weighted strategies designed to prevent oversized company exposure, helping reduce the impact of major market corrections.A Growing Opportunity for Purpose-Driven InvestorsThe rise of ETFs represents more than access—it represents maturation within Faith-Based Investing. With stronger tools, better research, and expanding product sets, Christians now have more opportunities than ever to align their portfolios with their values.For Mumbert, that alignment is not merely practical; it’s an expression of stewardship.“It’s really about how God would have us invest the money He’s entrusted to us.”As the ecosystem grows, so does the hope that more investors will embrace that vision—not out of obligation, but out of conviction shaped by faith.If you're exploring how to bring greater alignment between your financial decisions and your values as a follower of Christ, Faith-Based Investing continues to expand with new tools, new research, and more accessible investment vehicles. To learn more about faith-aligned investment strategies, visit TimothyPlan.com to explore their ETFs, mutual funds, and educational resources.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’m 60 and living off mutual funds with no income. My expenses are about $2,024 a month, so my savings will run out in about two years. I have health challenges and can...
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    25 m
  • Navigating the 2026 Housing Market with Dale Vermillion
    Feb 4 2026
    Many Americans are wondering whether the housing market has finally begun turning a corner—or if uncertainty is still here to stay. After years of elevated mortgage rates, stubbornly low inventory, and affordability concerns, the question feels more relevant than ever.Today, mortgage expert Dale Vermillion, author of Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home, joined the show to weigh in on what the 2026 housing landscape may look like and how today’s buyers and sellers can navigate it with wisdom.A More “Normal” Market ReturnsAccording to Vermillion, the extreme swings of recent years may finally be behind us.“It isn’t the market of 2020–2021 when rates were in the twos, threes, and fours,” Vermillion explains. “But it’s also certainly not 2008. This is a very normal market.”He noted that although many think of today’s mortgage rates as high, they are actually below the 30-year average. Inventory is rising, sales are stabilizing, and government attention on housing has increased. Together, these factors point toward a gradual shift into a buyer’s market—a welcome change for those who’ve spent the last few years watching listings disappear before they could schedule a tour.A common frustration remains: if rates have risen, why haven’t prices fallen faster?The answer is complex. While price increases largely flattened this year (+0.7%), Vermillion notes that the market remains regional rather than national. Certain areas have softened, but not enough to drive a nationwide price reset.A major reason: the “lock-in effect.” Millions of homeowners refinanced below 3% in 2020–21 and weren’t willing to trade those rates for a higher one. But as Vermillion observes, that dynamic is fading. For the first time in years, more loans now exist above 6% than below 3%, allowing inventory to loosen.Why Fed Rate Cuts Don’t Equal Lower Mortgage RatesEven though the Federal Reserve has been cutting rates, mortgage rates haven’t always followed. That’s because mortgage rates are tied more closely to the bond market, inflation data, and job reports—not directly to the Fed’s benchmark rate.Another overlooked factor: mortgage-backed securities (MBS). When the government increases MBS purchases, mortgage rates often decline more reliably than when the Fed cuts consumer rates.The emotional side of the housing market can’t be ignored. The bidding wars of 2020–21 left many would-be buyers discouraged. But Vermillion believes attitudes are shifting:“Inventory is up from roughly 450,000 units nationally early last year to over a million now. So from a buyer standpoint, it’s time to be encouraged again.”With more sellers re-entering the market, buyers have choice again—and choice increases leverage.Vermillion stressed that affordability challenges today are driven as much by property taxes and insurance costs as by mortgage rates. Homeowners in several states have seen insurance premiums and assessments climb dramatically—sometimes outpacing wage growth.For aspiring first-time buyers, budgeting remains the first step. Vermillion’s advice: determine what you can afford before visiting a lender, rather than letting a lender tell you what qualifies on paper.For First-Time Buyers: Get Pre-Approved, Not Pre-QualifiedA true pre-approval involves:A full applicationCredit checkIncome verificationDocumentation of debts and assetsThis makes offers more competitive and prevents buyers from shopping at unrealistic price points.During the pandemic boom, paying $20,000–$50,000 above asking price became the norm in many markets. Vermillion notes that this period has largely ended:“Homes today are selling around 94–97% of the listing price in most areas. We’re not seeing bidding wars like before.”For buyers, that’s stabilizing. For sellers, it simply resets expectations toward reality.Move-Up Buyers: Timing May Be Better Than You ThinkFor homeowners considering a move—whether for space, schools, or lifestyle—Vermillion’s advice mirrors that given to first-time buyers: set a realistic budget and lean on wise counsel.Sellers should also invest in preparing their homes to show well, as presentation still drives both speed and price.Vermillion believes 2026 may be a strategic window:“I think this is the year to do it. Rates may come down a little more, but not dramatically. Buyers and sellers who plan well and manage expectations can succeed in this environment.”From a stewardship standpoint, the takeaway is simple: markets change, rates fluctuate, and headlines swing. But Christians are invited to place their confidence not in economic cycles but in the Lord, “who establishes our steps” (Proverbs 16:9).A wise plan, a realistic budget, and sound counsel can go a long way—especially in a year where the housing market is finally beginning to level out.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’m looking for a ...
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