Following the Money With Jerry Bowyer

Broadcast Episode

September 13, 2023

This series examines how a Christian economic worldview should look like and how to return to God's plan for a healthy economy. It is highlighted that the economy of Genesis 1 and 2 is the ideal state of affairs as designed by God, but humanity abandoned this ideal. The current era is the "church era" where God's influence operates through the church in various nations, with some following, some abandoning, and others moving toward biblical principles. The US has seen rapid growth due to adherence to these principles, but this is slowing down due to violations. The church is where the desired transformation should take place, and it has the capacity to do the right thing independently of the nations. Individuals have direct control over their personal economies, and the focus should be on doing what is right, regardless of the scale. To get back in line with God's design, the church should serve as a model for handling money better than the world does and adopt a prophetic role.

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About Faith & Finance

How does your faith in Jesus influence your daily financial decisions? As believers, our faith must be the foundation of our financial stewardship, which is why we're excited to announce that the MoneyWise radio show is now Faith & Finance. Join Rob West and special guests as they address today’s financial questions with biblical answers. To be a part of the broadcast, call 1 (800) 525-7000 or you can email your questions to: [email protected]

More from Faith & Finance

Broadcast Episode

Today

Financial Advice for Students and Early Career Adults with Bob Doll

"Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gains understanding, for her profit is better than silver, and her gain surpasses gold. " - Proverbs 3: 13-14Making wise financial decisions early in life can set the stage for long-term stability and generosity. But where should students and young professionals begin? Today, Bob Doll joins us to share practical financial advice to help young adults start their careers on the right foot. Bob Doll is the CEO and CIO of Crossmark Global Investments. He regularly contributes to Faith and Finance and other media outlets, such as Bloomberg TV, Fox Business, and CNBC. Building a Life of Faithful Stewardship from the StartFinances can feel overwhelming for students and young adults stepping into the world of work—budgets, debt, investing, generosity…where do you even begin? Yet these early years are some of the most formative when it comes to your long-term financial health and spiritual growth. That’s why it’s critical to lay a foundation not just of financial literacy but of biblical stewardship. Here are some timeless pieces of practical wisdom for young adults who want to honor God with their money from the beginning. 1. Begin With a Plan—And a BudgetWithout a clear plan for spending, saving, and giving, it’s easy to drift into debt or financial anxiety. A solid budget helps you take control of your finances before they start controlling you. And you don’t have to do it alone. Tools like the FaithFi app make creating an intentional, faith-filled budget easy. It's not just about numbers—it’s about aligning your finances with your values. 2. Save for Emergencies—And Stay Out of DebtAfter budgeting, build an emergency fund with three to six months of expenses. Life is unpredictable, and this cushion can keep you from turning to debt when the unexpected hits. Also, make sure to pay off your cards in full each month and chip away at any student loans as quickly as you can. 3. Learn from Others—and Find a MentorThere’s no substitute for wise counsel. Watch those who are succeeding with money—and those who aren’t. Learn from both. Having a mentor or a financial advisor who shares your values is essential. Surrounding yourself with godly counsel can help you avoid pitfalls like overspending or failing to save. 4. Give Generously—Even When It’s HardStart giving now. Like Randy Alcorn says, “God prospers us not to raise our standard of living, but our standard of giving. ” Even when budgets are tight, generosity opens your heart and reminds you that God is the true provider. 5. Start Investing Early—and ConsistentlyCompound interest is a powerful force—either for or against you. The earlier you start investing, the more time your money has to grow. Even small, consistent contributions—what financial experts call “dollar-cost averaging”—can make a huge impact over time. Start with low-cost index funds or retirement accounts like a Roth IRA. And don’t overlook your workplace benefits. If your employer offers a match, take it. That’s free money. 6. Align Your Investments with Your FaithToday’s investors have more opportunities than ever to make faith-based investment choices. As the movement toward values-based investing grows, believers can increasingly steward their portfolios in ways that reflect biblical principles. 7. Embrace Rhythms and Celebrate MilestonesThe journey to financial stability can feel long, especially when progress is slow. That’s why we suggest setting milestones and celebrating small wins. God wants us to enjoy things. We’re not meant to live like monks but are called to be wise. These rhythms of budgeting, saving, investing, and giving aren’t just habits—they’re acts of worship. 8. Talk About Money—Especially in MarriageMoney fights are one of the top reasons for marital conflict. Get on your knees in prayer and ask the Lord to guide you both. Set goals as a couple and revisit them often. Being on the same page financially brings unity and builds trust. It’s also a way of inviting God into your relationship in a very practical, day-to-day way. 9. Grow in Wisdom—And Keep LearningStaying in God’s Word and learning from wise voices is crucial. Some books that we recommend to help you discern what the Bible really says about wealth and generosity are: Money, Possessions, and Eternity: A Comprehensive Guide to What the Bible Says about Financial Stewardship, Generosity, Materialism, Retirement, Financial Planning, Gambling, Debt, and More by Randy Alcorn The Treasure Principle: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving by Randy AlcornStart StrongTo the student, recent graduate, or young couple just starting out: the best time to build wise financial habits is now. Begin with a plan. Learn from mentors. Avoid debt. Save for emergencies. Give generously. Invest consistently. Talk honestly. And let Scripture shape how you think about money. After all, financial wisdom isn’t just about building wealth—it’s about building a life that reflects the heart of God. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 70 years old and have $112, 000 in my checking account. I'm about to retire and unsure what to do with this money. Should I pay off my $110, 000 mortgage or use the funds for home repairs and a new car? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly MagazineCrossmark Global InvestmentsMoney, Possessions, and Eternity: A Comprehensive Guide to What the Bible Says about Financial Stewardship, Generosity, Materialism, Retirement, Financial Planning, Gambling, Debt, and More by Randy AlcornThe Treasure Principle: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving by Randy AlcornWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look 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

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Broadcast Episode

Yesterday

Following Jesus Through Every Financial Season

In the first century B. C. , the Roman historian Sallust wrote, “Prosperity tries the souls, even of the wise. ” That statement still holds true today. While most people would gladly accept financial prosperity despite its pitfalls, few are as eager to embrace financial hardship. Yet both seasons—wealth and want—reveal what we believe, what we value, and ultimately, where we place our trust. When things are going well financially, it’s easy to take the credit. But self-reliance and comfort can open the door to pride and greed. As Jesus warned in Luke 12, “Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions. ”Prosperity can dull our spiritual sensitivity. We may forget our dependence on God or assume His blessings are tied to our performance. But success isn’t always a sign of God’s approval—sometimes it’s a test. The Temptations of AdversityFinancial hardship brings its own spiritual challenges. Temptations like bitterness, envy, fear, and self-pity can creep in. We might compare ourselves to others or question God’s goodness. But just as prosperity tests our humility, adversity tests our faith. James 1: 2-3 tells us, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. ”So how do we remain grounded—whether in feast or famine? The answer is wisdom. Proverbs 1: 7 lays the foundation: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. ”This kind of fear isn’t cowering in dread—it’s reverent awe. It’s the recognition that God is holy, sovereign, and good. And it’s trusting that His commands are given for our good, not our restriction. Just as a loving parent sets boundaries to protect their child, God gives us instructions to guide us toward freedom, peace, and flourishing. What Wisdom BringsGodly wisdom isn’t reserved for the wealthy or educated. It’s available to anyone who humbly seeks it. Scripture outlines several benefits of living wisely: Discernment: “Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path” (Proverbs 2: 9). Guidance: “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3: 6). Blessing: “Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding” (Proverbs 3: 13). Reputation: “The wise inherit honor, but fools get only shame” (Proverbs 3: 35). Protection: “Through the fear of the Lord a man avoids evil” (Proverbs 16: 6). Your income or assets do not' bind these benefits—they’re available to anyone who listens to God and walks in His ways. In contrast, the Bible describes a fool not as someone lacking intelligence but as someone who rejects God’s wisdom. Proverbs 12: 15 says, “The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice. ”When we define right and wrong on our own terms—especially in our finances—it leads to confusion and brokenness. God’s warnings are invitations to return to the life He designed us for, one marked by peace, generosity, and joy. Applying Wisdom to Your FinancesHere are three practical ways to walk in financial wisdom: 1. Recognize God’s OwnershipEverything we have belongs to God. We are stewards, not owners. Psalm 24: 1 says, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it. ” When we view money as a trust rather than a possession, it changes how we spend, save, and give. Ask the Lord to help you desire faithfulness over financial status. He’s not looking at you.networth—He’s looking at your heart. 2. Live by Biblical PrinciplesScripture is full of practical wisdom for managing money: avoid debt, practice generosity, work diligently, and act with integrity. Philippians 2: 3 reminds us, “In humility, consider others more significant than yourselves. ”3. Pursue ContentmentPaul writes in 1 Timothy 6: 6, “Godliness with contentment is great gain. ” True wealth isn’t about how much you have but about how much you trust God. Contentment sets you free from the endless cycle of comparison and consumerism. What Do Your Habits Reveal? At the end of the day, your financial decisions reflect your spiritual direction. Are your habits shaped by God's wisdom or the world’s values? Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6: 21). If you’re following Christ, your money will follow Him, too—toward generosity, simplicity, and trust. Whether you’re walking through a season of prosperity or adversity, God is with you. And if you seek His wisdom, you’ll be equipped to handle both with grace. The world measures success by accumulation, but God measures it by faithfulness. So whatever financial season you’re in right now, stay focused on what truly matters: following Jesus. In Him, there is peace, purpose, and joy—no matter your bottom line. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I want to move from our 26-acre farm, but house prices are high. Do land prices follow house prices if the housing market drops? I want to put my house in a trust to protect it in case I end up in a nursing facility, but I can't afford an attorney. What do you think of using an app like Quicken Willmaker for this purpose? I'm a federal employee planning to retire within a year. My TSP is invested 70% in the C fund and 30% in the G fund. Is this a good allocation, or would it be safer to start moving more of my investments into the G fund? I own a house, and I decided a long time ago to put it in my name and my three daughters' names. I'm wondering if I have done the right thing and what the advantages or disadvantages of this decision are. I want to transfer my Arizona property to my children to avoid probate. Are CDs offering 7. 5% better than stocks with broker fees? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly MagazineWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look 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

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Broadcast Episode

Tuesday, April 15

Time for Foreign Stocks to Shine? with Mark Biller

For the past decade, U. S. stocks have stolen the spotlight. Fueled by the dominance of tech giants and ultra-low interest rates, American equities have outperformed much of the world—leaving many investors to wonder if there’s any need to look beyond U. S. borders. But history—and current market conditions—suggest it may be time to take a fresh look at foreign stocks. A recent article from Sound Mind Investing by Mark Biller outlines why international markets could be poised for a resurgence. From valuation gaps and shifting fiscal policy to global capital flows and post-COVID economic trends, several factors are aligning that could make foreign equities an important part of a well-diversified portfolio again. Let’s walk through the key highlights and insights from the article—and why this may be a wise moment to think globally in your investment strategy. Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. Why Should U. S. Investors Consider Foreign Stocks? 1. Diversification and Market DynamicsForeign stocks offer investors the opportunity to diversify—not just by geography but also by market behavior. While U. S. stocks declined by more than 4% in Q1 of this year, a common international fund used by Sound Mind Investing rose by over 8%. That kind of divergence underscores the value of spreading risk across global markets. Two decades ago, having 20% or more of your equity portfolio in international stocks was standard practice. However, as U. S. markets have surged over the last 14 years—outperforming foreign stocks by a factor of four—many investors have pulled back. History, however, suggests the pendulum could be swinging back. 2. The Tech Bubble ParallelRemember the late 1990s tech boom? From 1995 to 1999, the S&P 500 rose more than 20% annually, driven largely by internet stocks. Sound familiar? After the dot-com bubble burst in March 2000, U. S. stocks stalled—gaining just 13% over the next 7. 5 years. Meanwhile, foreign stocks soared, climbing 69% during that same stretch. Market cycles like this remind us that chasing performance can lead to missed opportunities elsewhere. 3. A Price-to-Earnings DisparityCurrently, U. S. stocks trade at a P/E ratio of around 26—well above historical norms. Foreign stocks? Around 16. That’s a significant valuation gap. While valuation alone doesn’t indicate when markets will shift, it does suggest that the upside potential for international equities is greater—especially if investor sentiment begins to shift. 4. Post-COVID Spending and Sector ShiftsCOVID-19 marked the end of a 40-year trend of declining inflation and interest rates. Since then, we’ve entered a new environment with higher inflation and rising rates—conditions that benefit the more industrial, less tech-heavy composition of many foreign markets. U. S. tech stocks, dominant in low-rate environments, may not fare as well moving forward. Foreign markets, which lean toward traditional sectors, could outperform in this new economic climate. 5. Shifting Fiscal PolicyOne potential catalyst for foreign stock performance is shifting government policies. The U. S. has begun cutting back on spending, while other countries—facing rising defense needs and new trade dynamics—are ramping up. Historically, higher government spending boosts economic growth in the short term. If the U. S. tightens its belt while others open their wallets, we may see a reversal in relative market performance. 6. The "Sequencing Risk" of Tariff Policies“Sequencing risk” is a dynamic in which the pain of policy changes is felt up front, while the benefits come later. For example, tariffs initially slow economic activity but are implemented in hopes of long-term economic independence and stability. This could reduce U. S. growth projections in the short term as some foreign economies accelerate. This divergence can significantly influence investment returns. 7. Follow the MoneyFor decades, the global economy has operated under a system where the U. S. buys, and the rest of the world recycles its earnings back into U. S. assets. This has been a tailwind for U. S. stocks and bonds. But what happens if the U. S. begins importing less? Those recycled dollars may dry up—meaning less foreign investment in U. S. markets and potentially more reinvestment at home, in countries where those goods are produced. That shift could fuel a rally in international markets. 8. It’s Not Either/Or—It’s Both/AndThis isn’t about abandoning U. S. stocks. It’s about recapturing the value of a globally diversified portfolio. With international stocks looking attractively priced and a number of tailwinds forming, now may be a wise time to add foreign exposure through mutual funds or ETFs. The impact could be substantial if global capital starts flowing back into foreign stocks. If your portfolio has drifted into a U. S. -only approach over the last decade, now may be the time to revisit your strategy. While no one can predict the future, wise stewardship includes preparing for it with thoughtful diversification. For a deeper dive into this topic, you can read Mark Biller’s full article, “Time for Foreign Stocks to Shine? ” at SoundMindInvesting. org. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I want to buy an expensive watch. Is this being a bad steward of God's money? Where's the line between treating myself and overspending? I own a condo unit in a homeowners' association that has been assessed $870, 000 for a roof replacement. The association claims the original contractor was paid $438, 000 and ran away with the money. Are there any government agencies that can investigate this, and what rights do I have? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly MagazineSound Mind Investing | Time for Foreign Stocks to Shine? By Mark Biller Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look 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

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Broadcast Episode

Monday, April 14

Investing vs. Gambling: What’s the Difference?

In today’s fast-paced world of cryptocurrency booms, sports betting apps, and market volatility, it’s easy to blur the lines between investing and gambling. Some even suggest they’re essentially the same: putting money at risk in hopes of a reward. But that’s a serious oversimplification—and it misses what sets these two activities apart, not just financially but morally and biblically. Let’s examine closely how Scripture, wisdom, and faith guide us in thinking rightly about risk, wealth, and the difference between gambling and godly investing.

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Broadcast Episode

Friday, April 11

Investing in Israel with Brian Mumbert

Israel is a nation often in the news but seldom for its potential as an investment. Israel is a tiny country but a powerhouse for investing opportunities, particularly in the tech sector. Brian Mumbert joins us today to examine Israel in a different light. Brian Mumbert is Vice President and Regional Sales Executive at Timothy Plan, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. Is It Safe to Invest in Israel? Despite frequent headlines about conflict in the Middle East, Israel stands out as a remarkably resilient nation with an entrepreneurial spirit. Israelis have a low view of debt culturally. In fact, at one point, the government even sent out piggy banks to every citizen to encourage savings and wise stewardship. That mindset—combined with a tech-forward economy—creates strong fundamentals that appeal to values-based investors. Understandably, some investors may wonder about the safety of investing in a country with frequent regional conflict. Israel is regulated just like the U. S. They have their own stock exchange—the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange—and the top 125 companies are listed on the Tel Aviv 125 index. Even during times of war, Israel’s economy continues to operate. Brian compared it to the U. S. during World War II: while volatility occurred, the Dow still gained over 50% from 1939 to 1945. A Developed Economy with Room to GrowIsrael graduated from the emerging markets category to a developed economy in 2009. While this was a major step forward, it ironically resulted in less attention from global investors, since many international funds tend to favor larger developed economies like Japan or those in Europe. Still, the fundamentals are strong. Israel’s unemployment and inflation rates remain low, and the U. S. continues to be a committed ally. Israel has earned the nickname “Startup Nation” for good reason. Its high-tech sector employs 12% of the workforce and generates 20% of the country’s GDP. Many Israeli companies don’t become household names because giants like Apple, Google, and Amazon acquire them. Notable examples include: Mobileye—A leader in automotive safety tech. Waze—The crowd-sourced navigation app developed to navigate Jerusalem’s winding roads. Cherry Tomatoes—Yes, even innovations in agriculture like drip irrigation and cherry tomatoes can be traced back to Israeli ingenuity. The government’s support of tech innovation has made Israel the third-largest tech hub globally by capital raised—just behind Silicon Valley and New York. While tech leads the way, Israel’s financial sector is also strong due to the cultural avoidance of debt. This contrasts sharply with many Western nations. Innovations in agriculture (like drip irrigation) and strong export activity also contribute to Israel’s economic resilience. Over 50% of Israel’s exports are tech-related; major U. S. companies like Apple have invested heavily in Israeli startups, demonstrating the global demand for their innovations. Israel’s global relationships are improving, with normalization efforts such as the Abraham Accords expanding diplomatic and trade ties across the Middle East. Venture capital is thriving, too. Israel boasts over 270 active VC funds, and from 2014 to 2018, investment in Israeli startups grew by 140%—more than double the rate in the U. S. during the same period. The Timothy Plan’s Israel Common Values FundTimothy Plan offers the Israel Common Values Mutual Fund for those interested in investing in Israel in a biblically responsible way. This fund stands out in several ways: Actively managed—Fund managers respond in real time to geopolitical developments. Focused exposure—At least 80% of companies in the portfolio are domiciled in Israel. Faith-based screening—Just like all Timothy Plan funds, this one avoids investments in companies involved in abortion, pornography, and other areas contrary to Christian values. The fund performed very well last year as the Israeli Stock Exchange closed the year up over 20%, with most of that growth coming in the second half. If you’re interested in learning more about investing in Israel and doing so in a way that aligns with your faith, visit TimothyPlan.com. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I just sold my home with $200, 000 in profit. Where's the best place to put this money to earn more interest while keeping it ready for my next home purchase in 6-9 months? As a veteran with limited funds, can I set up a Christian investment account to tithe $100 monthly and distribute it to ministry programs after my death? I'm considering buying a rental property for passive income, but I would like to know if it is wiser to meet with a financial advisor and invest in the stock market instead. I'm single, planning for the future, and want to avoid the time-consuming aspects of managing a rental property.

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Faith & Finance

Christian talk radio with Rob West

Broadcast Episode