Faith And Finances

Is there an implied obligation that parents are to save up and leave their children an inheritance? Are we bad parents if we do not leave an inheritance? What about the verse in Scripture that says a good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children?   In This Episode, We Look At: Saving or not saving for your children is a personal value. Solomon warned against leaving an inheritance. We'll talk about some "Do's and Don’ts" for those wishing to help out the kiddies. Proverbs 13:22 is often misunderstood for meaning money rather than the family farm (which would provide the means for children's children to work the land, laboring for their income)   Improve Your Faith and Finances: Do plan wisely for the passing of whatever funds we may leave behind, utilizing beneficiary designations, or see an estate planning attorney for legal documents to do so.   Share Your Thoughts: If you have a question or comment about today's topic, we invite you to share your thoughts. Podcast on Facebook Ti

Wealth is not always observed. The reality is that many Americans are quietly saving and accumulating wealth. You'll not see them living in the priciest houses in the neighborhood, nor driving the newest luxury car. Paycheck after paycheck they are willing to forgo the temporary pleasure that spending can provide, choosing rather to pay their "future selves."   In This Episode, We Look At: Accumulating wealth does happen quickly, which is a challenge as many of us today are conditioned to see and receive immediate rewards. Time and diligence are key. Lifestyle are required, and possible (You may be surprised by what you are able to do without).   Resources and Links: Proverbs 28:22 "He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him." Christians and Wealth— Episode 03 of Faith and Finances which discusses whether it is right or wrong for Christians to accumulate wealth. This has been a sticky subject among Believers.   Improve Your Faith and Financ

  The timing belt needs to be replaced in your car, you get a speeding ticket, someone in your family needs a PT scan not covered by your health insurance. We've all been there; the unexpected bills! Life can hit with expenses that nearly knock the wind out of us. One sad statistic is that most American households could not handle an unexpected expense of $400. You do not have to be part of this statistic.   In This Episode, We Look At: How to plan for the unexpected. First, acknowledge that expenses arise, and you do not have to be caught off guard. Make the time to stop and consider all the possible expenses that may come up in one year's time: Consider your medical plan and the extent of your out-of-pocket responsibility; consider the condition of your automobile(s) and identify what parts may need to be replaced or repaired and research the cost ahead of time; consider the age and model of your cell phones and identify when they might need to be replaced—the same for computers. Designate a spe

Our lives are driven by many pursuits. There are career pursuits, financial pursuits, relational, physical and even status pursuits. How common is it to list "seek wisdom" at the first action item on one's daily planner?   In This Episode, We Look At: The Bible promises that those who pursue wisdom find life and obtain favor from the Lord. "Life" and "favor" can be easily overlooked, as we tell ourselves I have eternal life and I have favor of the Lord because of Christ, but we may be missing some key truths. The word life in Proverbs 8:35 means green- as in vegetation, flowing- as in fresh water, and reviving- as in Spring time. This is the kind of life God wants us to have and we can experience such a rich life as we pursue wisdom. Wisdom is greater than riches. Proverbs 8:19 says, "My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than fine silver." Verse 11 states, "For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it." The wisd

"What is God's will for my life?" is a common question among Christians. That is a wonderful question to ask, as well as a spiritual goal to pursue. God has three wills for every person: Salvation (2 Peter 3:9), Sanctification (1 Thessalonians 4:3), and to be Spirit-filled (Ephesians 5:17-18). If we are saved but not sanctified, we are not in God's will. If we are saved and sanctified, but not living Spirit-filled, we are not in God's will. While this is helpful to know, you may be thinking, What does this have to do with money? We should not fool ourselves into thinking that we are in God's will if we aren't yielding our finances to Him.   In This Episode, We Look At: It is God's will that we are to be completely dependent upon Him. God uses money to develop trustworthiness in our lives. (Luke 16:11) God proves His love for us by demonstrating that He is our Provider. (Matthew 7:7-11)   Improve Your Faith and Finances: When we fully embrace our role as steward and God's role as Provider, we will

I get asked regularly about students loans. Usually, the question is "What can I do about these loans?" The percentage of college graduates who carry student loan debt is staggering, ranging from 66% to 88%, depending on the type of college or university they attended. The debt balances range from $23K to $160K, with the average in 2017 being $39K.   In This Episode, We Look At: The tough love answer to this question (which is Biblical truth) is to pay it. A "vow" has been paid, defer not to pay it (Ecc. 5:5) In this episode we address a couple of methods which can be used to accelerate the elimination of student loan debt in record time. We also talk about means of avoiding student loans and still have the college education paid for.   Resources and Links: U.S. Student Loan Statistics 2018   Share Your Thoughts: If you have a question or comment about today's topic, we invite you to share your thoughts. Podcast on Facebook Tim Website or Twitter Troy Twitter Matt Website or Twitter

"Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God." 2 Corinthians 5:20 We are familiar with the term, ambassador, but do we know the implications of truly living as an ambassador?   In This Episode, We Look At: What is an ambassador? Definition: an accredited diplomat sent by a country as its official representative to a foreign country We live in a foreign country (this brief life on earth), but we will not remain in this foreign country. We will return from where we have been sent. It's so easy to lose sight of who we are, who has sent us, and why we are here. Ambassadors are held accountable for their representation. What are the consequences of failing to properly represent? 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 2 Corinthians 5:10   Improve Your Faith and Finances: Rewards earned and lost are real. We have these promises to motivate us to live with eternity in mind, to live further the Kingdom, and enjoy real, eternal rewar

I talk with my family frequently about the quality of food (or junk) that we put in our bodies. Yet there are times when I would see an amazing-looking dessert (just Google "Monster shakes") and all of a sudden I'm now telling my family how awesome this thing looks and that we ought to try it! That is not integrity! The healthy talk is somewhat recent in my life, but the junk food temptations stems from decades of bad habits.   In This Episode, We Look At: Deep seeded bad habits and bad behavior do not suddenly disappear overnight. This applies to financial habits and behaviors as well. You cannot dig yourself out of a 20, 30, or 40-year hole in just weeks or months. Financial integrity means handling money in a manner consistent with your beliefs—and words. Listen as we provide an Integrity self-test for Christians .   Improve Your Faith and Finances: Saturate yourself in God's Word, seeking to learn what is acceptable, and then practice awareness of your own thoughts, words, and deeds.   Sha

Many of us grew up being encouraged to "Be all you can be!" and to climb the ladder of success—which generally translates to more! Learn more, do more, get more, keep more… We do not want the opposite do we? Learn less, do less, get less, keep less…   In This Episode, We Look At: What is the problem with more? Can Christians strive for more? A biblical look at the real problem and how to avoid it. What is the purpose for more? The traps of seeking more for the purpose of more The blessings and promises when we seek to honor God with more   Improve Your Faith and Finances: Seek God's will for your life, be faithful with that which He has provided, and He can entrust you with more. (Luke 16:10)   Share Your Thoughts: If you have a question or comment about today's topic, we invite you to share your thoughts. Podcast on Facebook Tim Website or Twitter Troy Twitter Matt Website or Twitter

Millennials get a bad rap for being easily dissatisfied with jobs, but that seems to be an unfair stereotype. Forbes reports that 60% of Millennials are currently open to a new job opportunity and are by far the most likely generation to switch jobs. Interestingly, the data shows that it's largely the younger Millennials and not the older ones that job-hop.   In This Episode, We Look At: Job-hopping is not new. It has been common for all generations based on age, not culture. Possible reasons for job-hopping The downsides of job-hopping Possible benefits to job-hopping   Resources and Links: Millennials Aren't Job-Hopping, Young People Are   Improve Your Faith and Finances: If you leave a job, keep a good name and don't burn bridges. Strive to gain and retain experiences from past jobs to apply to future jobs.   Share Your Thoughts: If you have a question or comment about today's topic, we invite you to share your thoughts. Podcast on Facebook Tim Website or Twitter Troy Twitter Matt We

Glenn Mosher has been  a Presidential speech writer, Congressional aide, Capital Fundraiser, English Instructor, and Public Speaker who gained credibility and practiced integrity without ever losing humility or humor. He has raised over $75 million advocating for non-profit clients and designed programs of marketing excellence for companies and small businesses.   In This Episode, We Look At: Glenn's early years with Ronald Reagan Glenn's assistance and guiding Tim when he started a Bible Study on his High School campus and the School Board told him that he cannot have a Bible Study on campus. How and why Christians should stand for the Truth, the Gospel, and for our rights, even in the midst of vicious opposition. Christians involvement in Government.     Resources and Links: Young America's Foundation Clare Booth Luce Policy Institute   Improve Your Faith and Finances: Call or e-mail your State elected Officials and thank them for their work, and let them know you are praying for them. Don't be afraid to

We are pleased to share with you a previously aired interview with Ellie Kay, America's Family Financial Expert.   What do you do when you get married and then discover that your new spouse in debt to the tune of $40,000? Today we'll hear from Bob and Ellie Kay and learn how they addressed this serious issue, how they paid off this debt in only two and half years, strengthened their marriage in the process, and built the foundation to put several children through college—while remaining debt free!   In This Episode, We Look At: The decisions and adjustments Bob and Ellie had to make and live with. How they determined each other's financial roles and responsibilities. How they got out of debt and paid cash for the necessities of life—all while honoring the Lord in tithes and offerings.   Resources and Links: The 60-Minute Money Workout: An Easy Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Finances into Shape [Affiliate Link] EllieKay.com Ellie's Contact Page Tim's blog post on the subject   Improve You

What comes to mind when you hear "Faith promise giving?" For some it means their church is embarking on a building program, for others it may mean that it is time to prayerfully consider committing to a large dollar amount, and praying that God provides for you to give it.   In This Episode, We Look At: Where did this term come from? What does it mean, in practice, today? Are there biblical principles to support it?   I've interviewed several respected pastors, and have asked them these questions. I was very pleased to find a consensus among them as to the meaning and practice of faith promise giving.   Improve Your Faith and Finances: Look to God and ask: "How much can I trust you to  give through me?"   Share Your Thoughts: If you have a question or comment about today's topic, we invite you to share your thoughts. Podcast on Facebook Tim Website or Twitter Troy Twitter Matt Website or Twitter

Is it acceptable for Christians to be prosperous? Many are on the fence on the issue. Are riches evil? Do we avoid prosperity?   In This Episode, We Look At: "Prosper" defined Our ability to earn money comes from God Labor is expected of us from God Prosperity in the NT Stewarding prosperity   Improve Your Faith and Finances: Seek to prosper in everything God has entrusted to you, to His glory. Be ready and willing to be used of the Lord in greater ways.   Share Your Thoughts: If you have a question or comment about today's topic, we invite you to share your thoughts. Podcast on Facebook Tim Website or Twitter Troy Twitter Matt Website or Twitter

Some Christians will appear to have more than others. Then there are worldly people who have a lot more. Try as we may; we serve, we save, we sacrifice, but sometimes it just seems we can't get ahead. Is it fair?   In This Episode, We Look At: More is rarely the solution. You do not want to trade trials with other Christians. God's timing and plans are far superior than ours. The folly of comparing ourselves with other Christians. The wicked also increase.   Improve Your Faith and Finances: 1 Samuel 15:7 …for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart. Rather than concern ourselves with what others seem to have, let us focus on the intangibles treasures of the Lord: The privilege of abiding with Christ, wisdom which comes from God, and knowing the guidance of the Holy Spirit which, is in us.   Share Your Thoughts: If you have a question or comment about today's topic, we invite you to share your thoughts. Podcast on Facebook

Got a budget? Awesome! You are a step ahead of many. Yet, while drafting and agreeing upon a budget is a wise discipline, the budget itself does not get the job done. In real life our spending does not always match our budgets…then the wheels fall off.   In This Episode, We Look At: The importance of the monthly financial review. Did your financial activity align with your planned spending plan? Did you go over or under budget in areas? Look back on your bank statements for potential escapees, areas where spending was not budgeted and not tracked. Revisit long-time service bills to assure you are paying the lowest (fairest) rate: Homeowners and Auto Insurance are just two examples, and I share my personal experience in reducing both.   Improve Your Faith and Finances: Inspect what you expect. Keep diligence in dollars—by regular review of your cash flow and making adjustments where necessary.   Share Your Thoughts: If you have a question or comment about today's topic, we invite you to share y

Eighty percent of divorcees attribute arguments over money as the leading contributor to the divorce. There are going to be differences in how couples view money-related issues. So, what do you do when spouses do not see eye-to-eye in financial matters?   In This Episode, We Look At: Responses to avoid. "He's selfish", "She's immature", "he's irresponsible", "I'm the only one who cares in this marriage!" Setting aside pride and addressing issues openly and lovingly. Seek input and advice from older, godly couples. Take a course together. Avoid burying thoughts of bitterness, anger, and frustration.   Resources and Links: Rewired: Recognizing and Retraining Wrong Thinking, by R.B. Oullette Love and Respect, by Emerson Eggerichs   Improve Your Faith and Finances: Ephesians 4:1-3 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavoring to k

God has given us emotions. Emotions can help or hurt us. There are God-honoring emotions, and there emotions that lead to sin.   In This Episode, We Look At: The emotions of Jesus. The emotions related to the fruit of the Spirit. Biblical warnings related to emotions. Emotions that hurt or help our saving and investing efforts.   Improve Your Faith and Finances: "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life." Proverbs 4:23   Share Your Thoughts: If you have a question or comment about today's topic, we invite you to share your thoughts. Podcast on Facebook Tim Website or Twitter Troy Twitter Matt Website or Twitter

The automation episode.   In This Episode, We Look At: Eliminating many mental distractions in our lives through a few clicks to set priorities in motion — automatically. Your calendar. Bills. Saving. Investing. We'll look at many benefits, plus some "How-to" suggestions.   Resources and Links: Buffer Hootsuite   Share Your Thoughts: If you have a question or comment about today's topic, we invite you to share your thoughts. Podcast on Facebook Tim Website or Twitter Troy Twitter Matt Website or Twitter

The most-asked questions regarding life insurance I find are: "Should I buy life insurance?", "What type of Insurance?" and "How much Insurance should I have?"   In This Episode, We Look At: Life insurance defined. What is it's primary purpose? Would your passing eliminate an income that a loved one is dependent upon? Two main "types" of life insurance, their functions and pros and cons. Help with figuring the amount of insurance coverage that is appropriate for your family. Bonus: How to avoid being "sold."   Improve Your Faith and Finances: Take a quick inventory of your own financial planning. If the Lord were to take you home today, what would be the financial impact on your family? Have you taken steps to provide for them in your absence?   Share Your Thoughts: If you have a question or comment about today's topic, we invite you to share your thoughts. Podcast on Facebook Tim Website or Twitter Troy Twitter Matt Website or Twitter