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Faith & Finance

Christian talk radio with Rob West

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Broadcast Episode

Monday, November 11

5 Money Myths Christians Should Stop Believing

The Bible is full of wisdom on managing money and possessions, yet there are common beliefs about wealth that are simply unbiblical. These misconceptions can lead people away from God’s truth about finances, creating confusion and stress. Let’s examine five of these myths and explore what the Bible actually teaches.

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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]

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

Teaching Grandkids Generosity with Ron Blue

“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the sinner's wealth is laid up for the righteous. ” - Proverbs 13: 22God’s Word is clear that faithful stewards should leave an inheritance for future generations. That inheritance doesn’t have to be money. Passing along biblical principles such as generosity to grandkids, well, that’s priceless. Ron Blue joins us to talk about it. Ron Blue is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, including Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives. More Than Money: The Heart of GenerosityGrandparents have a unique opportunity to model and teach generosity to their grandchildren. Generosity is about much more than giving money. Money is just a tool we can use to bless others and make the world a better place. When taught early, generosity can break the grip of materialism and shape how children view and manage money for a lifetime. By demonstrating that financial success involves not just acquiring wealth but sharing it, grandparents can instill values that reflect God’s Kingdom. Starting the ConversationThe best way to teach generosity is to connect it to core Christian values like love, stewardship, compassion, and service. Ron Blue suggests beginning with young grandchildren by reading Christian children’s books that highlight stories of generosity. From there, move to practical activities: Set aside money to give to the grandchildren, and let them choose the charity. Engage in community service together, such as volunteering at a soup kitchen or helping a neighbor in need. Discuss how giving often involves sacrifice, such as donating toys to children in homeless shelters. Experiencing the joy of giving firsthand can leave a lasting impression. These activities help children see that generosity isn’t just a concept—it’s an actionable way to reflect Christ’s love. Generosity in Everyday LifeGrandparents can incorporate lessons about generosity into everyday life by encouraging grandchildren to: Donate part of their birthday or allowance money to a cause they care about. Participate in family conversations about budgeting for spending, saving, and giving. Volunteer for local community projects together. These experiences not only teach the importance of generosity but also demonstrate that giving is a planned and intentional part of the Christian walk. Generosity and Legacy PlanningMany grandparents focus on leaving a financial legacy, but weaving generosity into their estate planning is even more critical. Some ways to do this include: Allocating part of their estate for charitable giving. Setting up a Giving Fund through organizations like the National Christian Foundation and involving grandchildren in decisions about where the funds should go. These steps ensure that generosity remains a central value in the family’s legacy. The Long-Term ImpactTeaching grandchildren about generosity has profound long-term effects. It helps them avoid the chains of materialism and be more faithful stewards of God’s resources. By modeling and encouraging generosity, grandparents can leave a lasting legacy that impacts their family and furthers God’s Kingdom. Grandparents, you have an incredible role to play in shaping your grandchildren’s values and faith. Start small, be intentional, and watch as your legacy of generosity grows in the hearts of your family. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I have a 403(b) that's earning 3% interest. I'm 72 and will soon need to start taking the required minimum distributions. Since I have yet to pay taxes on this money, what's the best way to handle the withdrawals to minimize the taxation? Should I put it in a savings account or roll it into an IRA? I have a double-wide manufactured home with a 9. 4% interest rate mortgage. How can I upgrade the house to increase its value and get a lower interest rate through refinancing? We're living paycheck-to-paycheck with no savings. I've been a Christian for 40 years, and my wife and I have always tithed, even when money was tight. In the last couple of years, God has provided an income stream we never thought possible, proving His faithfulness to us. We now have resources we never dreamed of having. Resources Mentioned: Samaritan’s Purse: Operation Christmas ChildLook 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

Gospel Generosity with Dr. Nathan Harris

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich. ” - 2 Corinthians 8: 9That verse is among the most cited on the subject of generosity…and for good reason. It links generosity with the Gospel. Dr. Nathan Harris joins us to make that connection even stronger. Dr. Nathan Harris is the Vice President of Advancement at Grace College in Winona Lake, Indiana. He is also the author of A Short Guide to Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace. What Is Gospel Generosity? Gospel generosity is giving rooted in the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ. Generosity is not merely a virtue for the Christian life but a cheerful disposition that springs forth from the gospel. This kind of generosity arises from new life in Christ, is empowered by the Holy Spirit, and reflects the Father’s model of grace throughout creation. At its core, gospel generosity isn’t just about giving—it’s about proclaiming and portraying Christ’s saving work in our lives. It signifies a radical transformation of a believer’s heart and mind, leading to joyful stewardship of resources in service to God’s kingdom. Beyond the Tithe: A Higher CallingOne of the most debated topics surrounding generosity is the concept of tithing. Are Christians called to tithe, or is there a greater expectation? While tithing—giving 10%—is not explicitly required for Christians, the gospel calls us to something far greater. We aren’t obligated to give; instead, Christians have an incredible gospel opportunity. We are called to live generously, humbly, selflessly, and with the kingdom of God in mind. This perspective reframes giving not as a rule to follow but as an act of grace and worship, rooted in gratitude for what Christ has done. How the Gospel Transforms Our View of MoneyThe gospel transforms our hearts and minds and revolutionizes how we approach money and stewardship. Martin Luther once said: “There are three conversions in one’s life—the conversion of the heart, the mind, and the pocketbook. ”When we encounter Christ, our hearts are filled with affection for Him, and our minds are set on heavenly things. However, many Christians struggle to surrender their finances to God fully. You can’t hold on to Christ while also holding on to your money. A heart transformed by the gospel desires to honor Christ above wealth. A mind renewed by the gospel prioritizes kingdom values over worldly ones. This transformation shapes every aspect of our financial lives, from earning and saving to spending and giving. Living as Stewards of God’s ResourcesWhen our hearts and minds are fully surrendered to Christ, our finances naturally follow. Giving becomes not just an obligation but an act of worship and a reflection of the gospel’s transforming power. To explore these ideas further, check out Dr. Nathan Harris’s book, A Short Guide to Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace. This concise guide offers biblical wisdom and practical insights into living a life of joyful, gospel-rooted generosity. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: When I went to the bank, they offered me a HELOC (home equity line of credit) with no fees. I don't need it, but I noticed that the credit score they pulled for me was significantly different from the score I see when I check my credit reports online. Why is there such a big difference between the score the bank pulled and the scores I see from consumer credit reporting services? I have about four years left on a 2. 9% mortgage with $17, 000 remaining. Should I sell some of my gold, which is currently valued at around $2, 700 per ounce, to pay off the mortgage entirely and become debt-free? What do you think about that? I used to be into partying and drugs, even selling drugs, which landed me in prison. On September 10, 2021, I gave my life to Jesus Christ, and now I’m clean, sober, and working to rebuild my finances. I have some debts in collections, including a repossessed auto loan, medical bills, and an overdraft. I’m unsure of the exact amounts, but I want to consolidate and start paying them off to honor those debts and move forward. What’s the best way to start? I've received calls from my current lender and others about refinancing my mortgage. Last month, I tried applying at a different bank, but they said my credit score needed to be higher. My current interest rate is 7. 25%. What are your thoughts on whether I should refinance or wait until my credit score improves? Resources Mentioned: A Short Guide to Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace by Dr. Nathan HarrisChristian Credit CounselorsLook 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, December 2

Having The Mind of Christ in Your Finances

Did you know that as a believer in Jesus, you already have what it takes to make wise financial decisions? The Bible tells us that Christians “have the mind of Christ. ” But what does this mean for managing money and possessions? Let’s explore how adopting Jesus’ perspective can transform our financial decisions and bring us closer to God’s purpose for our lives. Understanding the Mind of ChristHaving the mind of Christ means seeing the world—and our finances—through Jesus’ perspective. As Christians, we aim to serve, think, and love like Him in every area of life, including how we handle money. One practical way to apply this is by asking, “What would Jesus do in this financial situation? ”The Bible emphasizes the vastness of God’s wisdom. Isaiah 40: 13 reminds us of His unmatched understanding: “Who can fathom the Spirit of the Lord or instruct the Lord as his counselor? ” Yet in 1 Corinthians 2: 16, Paul tells us something remarkable: “But we have the mind of Christ. ”Through Jesus, we’re no longer limited to worldly thinking. Instead, we’re empowered to manage our resources with godly wisdom, aligning our financial decisions with His eternal purposes. Bridging the Gap: Jesus as Our GuideSo, how do we gain this wisdom? The answer lies in Jesus, who bridges the gap between our limited understanding and God’s perfect knowledge. Jesus came to restore us to God and bring clarity to the confusion caused by sin. When we follow Jesus and rely on the Holy Spirit, we gain a clearer understanding of God’s plan for our lives—including how to steward our money. This perspective frees us from the worldly mindset that often prioritizes wealth and possessions over faith and trust in God. It’s easy to slip back into managing money with a “worldly mind, ” focusing on solving problems or planning for the future without seeking God’s perspective. When we separate our finances from our faith, we risk missing the opportunity to honor God in this crucial area of life. God cares about every part of our lives, including how we earn, spend, save, and give. He invites us to trust Him fully and integrate our financial decisions into our relationship with Him. Growing in Relationship with GodTo embrace the mind of Christ, we must deepen our relationship with God. In John 14: 11, Jesus said: “I am in the Father, and the Father is in me. ” Jesus modeled reliance on God’s wisdom and strength, and the same is true for us. Drawing closer to Him gives us the guidance and resilience needed to make godly financial decisions. This doesn’t mean financial challenges will disappear, but it does mean we’re not alone. God is actively working in and through us. As 2 Corinthians 10: 5 reminds us: “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. ”Living with the Mind of Christ in FinancesWhat does it look like to manage finances with the mind of Christ? Here are three key principles: Align Your Attitudes and Actions with Christ—Seek to honor God in every financial decision. Rely on God’s Strength—Trust His guidance when faced with financial challenges or temptations. Resist Worldly Influences—Stand firm against cultural pressures that prioritize money over faith. Grace in the JourneyNone of us will get it right every time. Mistakes and setbacks are part of the journey. But the good news is that God’s grace is sufficient. As 1 John 1: 9 assures us: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. ”When we stumble, let it be an opportunity to draw closer to God and realign our finances with His will. Remember, you have the mind of Christ. This truth empowers you to reject the world’s approach to money and manage your resources in ways that honor Him. Having the mind of Christ in your finances means trusting God’s wisdom and provision in every decision. By seeking His guidance, we can manage money with faith, purpose, and confidence. Let this truth encourage you to view your finances not as a separate part of your life but as an integral way to glorify God. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My husband and I had about $40, 000 in credit card debt a few years ago and barely got by. I heard about Christian Credit Counselors on the radio, so I called. They were able to lower our $1, 600 monthly credit card payments down to $925. We then used some money from my mother's passing to pay it off early, and we are now completely debt-free. It feels incredible to be debt-free. I would encourage anyone in a similar situation to call Christian Credit Counselors—they were very helpful in lowering our payments so we could pay them off. I've been trying to pay off about $50, 000 in student loan debt. I've heard that after 20 years, they'll review the debt and potentially forgive the remaining balance. Is that true? Also, I consider myself a generous giver, donating weekly to various organizations. Should I reduce my giving to pay off the student loans faster? I'm struggling to balance being generous and paying down this debt. My husband and I are selling a cabin and a pontoon boat. I'm assuming we should tithe on the proceeds from those sales. Is that correct? Also, if I need to tithe on the sale, should I give that 10% to my church specifically, or can I split it up and give it to other organizations, like pro-life groups or ministries like yours? My credit score was 768, but it recently dropped significantly. I didn't see any new credit applications or late payments on my report, but I think some credit card companies may have been making inquiries. How can I investigate the reason for the drop? Is there a way to stop credit card companies from making these inquiries if that's the cause? Resources Mentioned: Christian Credit CounselorsLook 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

Friday, November 29

Praying for Our Daily Bread

In Matthew 6, Jesus tells us how we should pray and how not to… “…do not' heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words.” Of course, Jesus then gives us the Lord’s Prayer as an example of how we should bring our needs to God. But are we skimming over part of it?

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Broadcast Episode

Thursday, November 28

The Story of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is more than just a feast—it's a celebration rooted in faith, courage, and sacrifice. The Pilgrims' journey and pursuit of religious freedom have shaped American heritage and continue to inspire gratitude. The Pilgrims, also known as Separatists, broke away from the Church of England, believing it had strayed from biblical teaching. In contrast, the Puritans, or Non-Separatists, sought to reform the church from within. While the Puritans aimed to purify, the Pilgrims chose complete separation, making their journey to the New World a bold stand for freedom of worship.

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