Episodios

  • What Daily Bread Really Means

    What Daily Bread Really Means
    Feb 20 2026
    “Give us this day our daily bread.”These seven words from the Lord’s Prayer are so familiar that we can easily miss how radical they are. When Jesus taught His disciples to pray in Matthew 6:11, He invited them to trust God for provision—not all at once, but one day at a time. In a world obsessed with tomorrow, this simple request calls us back to dependence, humility, and trust in God’s care today.Daily Bread in the WildernessThe idea of daily bread takes us back to Israel’s journey through the wilderness. In Exodus 16, God fed His people with manna each morning. It was enough for the day—no more, no less. When they tried to store extra, it spoiled.The lesson wasn’t primarily about food; it was about trust. God was teaching His people that He—not their stockpiles or strategies—was their provider.Today, we work, budget, plan, save, and invest—and Scripture commends those practices. Proverbs celebrates diligence, and Joseph’s preparation in Genesis 41 helped save entire nations. Trusting God isn’t passivity, and faith isn’t irresponsibility.But here’s the tension: our planning must never replace our dependence. When Jesus taught us to ask for daily bread, He was establishing a rhythm—trusting God with today rather than burdening ourselves with controlling tomorrow.When Financial Anxiety Feels Close to HomeFor many people, this teaching hits close to home. We live in a time of economic anxiety. Budgets are tight, housing is expensive, and the future often feels uncertain.And if we’re honest, money doesn’t just expose financial fears—it reveals deeper questions: Will I have enough? Will I make it? Does God see me?Will He take care of me?Jesus speaks directly to those fears in Matthew 6:25–26: “Do not be anxious about your life… Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.”Jesus isn’t calling us to ignore real needs. He’s inviting us to rest in real care. Birds still work—they gather, build, and hunt—but they don’t live in anxiety. They don’t wake each morning wondering whether God will provide. Provision is built into creation because God is faithful.Three Responses to Daily BreadTrusting God for daily bread shapes the way we live. It invites three important responses: gratitude, contentment, and generosity.1. Daily Bread Invites GratitudeWhen we ask God for what we need today, we’re reminded that what we have today is a gift. Gratitude pushes back against the relentless pressure for more—more comfort, more security, more status.Ecclesiastes reminds us, “Everyone to whom God has given wealth and possessions and power to enjoy them… this is the gift of God” (Ecclesiastes 5:19). Even the ability to enjoy what we have is grace.2. Daily Bread Invites ContentmentContentment doesn’t mean settling for less—it means refusing to treat the future as the only place where peace exists.Paul writes, “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content” (Philippians 4:11). That learning happened within real circumstances, not after ideal ones arrived. Contentment grows as we trust God in the present moment.3. Daily Bread Invites GenerosityWhen we trust God to provide for today, our grip loosens. Fear tightens our hands; trust frees them.In 1 Kings 17, a widow shared her last flour and oil with Elijah, trusting God’s promise—and God sustained her household through the drought. The lesson isn’t that generosity guarantees prosperity. It’s that generosity reveals where our security truly lies.Trusting God Through Everyday Financial HabitsTrusting God for daily bread often expresses itself in very ordinary financial decisions.Building an emergency fund can shield us from unnecessary anxiety.Creating a budget helps us steward what God provides.Saving for future needs reflects wisdom, as Proverbs 21:20 states: “The wise store up choice food and olive oil.”Yet even the wisest planning must remember this: financial stability is not ultimate security. No account balance is large enough to silence fear if our hope rests in money.At the same time, there is no scarcity so deep that God cannot sustain His children.Whether in Need or in PlentyFor some, trusting God for daily bread is literal. You’re not sure how the bills will be paid. You’re praying for provision in a very real way. For others, the challenge is different. You’re in a season of abundance—and the danger isn’t lack, but forgetting the Giver.God warned Israel about this in Deuteronomy 8: “Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.’” Every opportunity, every skill, every breath comes from Him.In the Lord’s Prayer, the request for daily bread comes after “Hallowed be your name” and “Your kingdom come.” Provision is framed by worship and mission. God meets our needs not only for our comfort, but for His purposes.A Prayer for...
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    25 m
  • A New Generation of Investors with Matt Bell

    A New Generation of Investors with Matt Bell
    Feb 19 2026
    Younger investors are reshaping the markets—from crypto and AI to ETFs and gaming. But with so many new platforms, trends, and voices competing for attention, how can believers invest wisely across generations?Matt Bell, Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, has been tracking these shifts closely, and he joins the show today to share his insights and highlight both what’s changing and what remains timeless—especially when biblical wisdom guides our financial decisions.The Surge of Younger InvestorsSince 2020, millions of new investment accounts have been opened—many by Gen Z and millennials. In fact, a significant portion of today’s investors entered the market during the early pandemic years, despite dramatic market volatility. Why? Several factors converged:Extra time at home during lockdownsStimulus payments and increased savingsCommission-free trading platformsSocial media influencers showcasing day tradingApps that made investing feel simple—even entertainingInstead of retreating when markets dropped, many younger investors leaned in.How Younger Investors Are Engaging the Market DifferentlyCompared to previous generations, younger investors tend to:Use mobile apps as their primary investment toolsExplore emerging sectors like crypto, AI, and fintechGet advice from social media and peers rather than advisorsTrade more frequentlyFavor ETFs over traditional mutual fundsETFs, in particular, appeal to younger investors because they trade like stocks, often have lower costs, and allow for more active participation.At the same time, themes like cryptocurrency, gaming-related funds, and sports gambling investments show the sharpest generational divide—drawing the most interest from the youngest investors.A Cultural Shift in InvestingInterest in newer asset classes isn’t limited to younger investors anymore. Crypto, AI, and alternative investments are gaining traction across all age groups.Major developments—such as the approval of Bitcoin ETFs and growing conversations about private equity in retirement plans—signal that the investing culture is evolving rapidly.But rapid access can create risk.Availability and hype can outpace understanding. New investment options often carry complexity, and without careful research, investors may unknowingly take on risks they don’t fully grasp.The Social Media EffectOne of the most defining features of today’s investing landscape is the role of social media.Anyone can build a following and offer financial advice—even without credentials. In a crowded digital space, the loudest voices often gain the most attention, not necessarily the wisest ones.That’s why discernment matters. Before acting on advice:Check credentialsEvaluate track recordsSeek multiple perspectivesCompare guidance against long-term principlesWise investing has always required counsel, patience, and humility—traits that don’t trend easily online.The Opportunity of Starting YoungDespite the risks, the growing interest in investing among younger generations is largely positive.Time is one of the most powerful tools in investing. Starting early allows compounding to work over decades, creating opportunities for steady growth and long-term stability.Encouraging young investors to begin is wise. Helping them begin wisely is even more important.How Parents and Mentors Can Guide the Next GenerationFor parents, grandparents, and mentors, the goal isn’t to criticize younger investors—it’s to walk alongside them.Start by affirming their interest. Then introduce principles that shape a healthier approach:DiversificationLong-term thinkingWise counselProcess-driven investingOngoing learningThese conversations can help shift the focus from chasing trends to building a thoughtful strategy.Why Process Matters More Than TrendsIn fast-moving markets, a clear investment process becomes essential.Emotion—fear when markets fall and greed when they rise—is one of the greatest risks investors face. A disciplined strategy helps guard against impulsive decisions.For believers, process also reflects stewardship. The money we manage ultimately belongs to God, and our responsibility is to steward it wisely and intentionally.A thoughtful plan helps investors stay grounded when markets—and headlines—shift.Understanding What You OwnOne practical test of wise investing is simple: can you clearly explain what you own and why?If an investment can’t be explained in plain language, it may not be fully understood. And stewardship requires understanding.Clarity leads to better decisions. It also protects against blindly following trends or hype.When Investing Starts to Feel Like GamblingModern platforms often blur the line between investing and entertainment. Frequent trading, instant feedback, and gamified interfaces can encourage short-term thinking.But Scripture points to a different path:Ecclesiastes 11:2 encourages diversification.Proverbs 21:5 praises steady, disciplined planning.1 ...
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    25 m
  • Our Ultimate Treasure: Wisdom for Every Decision

    Our Ultimate Treasure: Wisdom for Every Decision
    Feb 18 2026
    Every day, we’re faced with financial decisions—some small, some life-shaping. We decide how to spend, save, give, borrow, invest, and provide for our families. But behind each of those choices lies a deeper question: where do we go to find wisdom?Many assume the Bible is a spiritual book meant only for spiritual matters, not for the realities of modern financial life. After all, Scripture was written thousands of years ago. There were no index funds, tax-advantaged accounts, or credit cards in ancient Israel. So how could it possibly speak to retirement planning, debt, generosity, or contentment today?Yet what Scripture offers isn’t a financial playbook—it’s something better: timeless wisdom rooted in the character of God.Timeless Wisdom, Not Financial FormulasBiblical wisdom isn’t about giving us modern strategies or formulas. It’s about helping us understand who God is, who we are, and what we were made for. Until we know the Author, we won’t trust His instruction. And without trusting His instruction, we won’t build our lives—financially or otherwise—on His Word.The primary purpose of Scripture isn’t merely to tell us what to do. It’s to reveal who we belong to. It introduces us to the God who provides, who owns all things, who defines true success, and who calls us to steward not just money, but all of life.Once that foundation is laid, Scripture certainly does speak to how we live. The apostle Paul writes:“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable… that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16–17).Financial decisions are included in those “good works.” The Bible isn’t irrelevant to a modern economy—it’s indispensable.Biblical Principles for Modern Money DecisionsThe questions people wrestle with today aren’t new. Scripture addresses the very issues many of us face:Diversification: “Invest in seven ventures, yes, in eight; you do not know what disaster may come upon the land” (Ecclesiastes 11:2).Debt and co-signing: “Be not one of those who give pledges” (Proverbs 22:26).Living below your means: “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it” (Proverbs 21:20).Planning ahead: “The prudent sees danger and hides himself” (Proverbs 27:12).Generosity: “You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way” (2 Corinthians 9:11).Seeking wisdom: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God” (James 1:5).These aren’t technical instructions about financial products. They are heart-level principles that guide every generation, in every economy.Financial Wisdom Is RelationalBiblical wisdom is not merely practical—it’s relational. Scripture doesn’t just tell us what to do; it shows us why God is trustworthy.It reveals a Father who “owns the cattle on a thousand hills” (Psalm 50:10), who feeds the birds of the air (Matthew 6:26), who gives good gifts to His children (James 1:17), and who never abandons those who walk by faith (Hebrews 13:5).Much of our financial anxiety isn’t ultimately about money—it’s about trust. And trust doesn’t come from spreadsheets or strategies. It comes from knowing the God who inspired Scripture.When we know Him, financial obedience becomes freedom rather than drudgery. Living below our means becomes contentment. Avoiding debt becomes a matter of wisdom rather than fear. Giving becomes a joyful response to grace. Planning becomes stewardship instead of self-reliance.Ancient Words, Timely GuidanceScripture is ancient, but it is not outdated. Technology changes. Markets change. Financial products change. But the human heart does not.Because the heart hasn’t changed, God’s Word still speaks. It equips us for every season of life, every financial decision, and every act of stewardship.The Bible never treats money as evil, but it refuses to let it become a savior. It presents money as a tool—good when stewarded wisely, dangerous when worshiped, and temporary, no matter how well invested.That’s why the goal of biblical financial wisdom isn’t accumulation—it’s transformation.Becoming Faithful StewardsUltimately, Scripture doesn’t just shape what we do with money; it shapes who we become. It forms us into people who trust God, steward His resources, and live with eternal purpose.That’s the heart behind Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship. The devotional walks through how Scripture reshapes our view of money by helping us see God as Owner, Provider, and our ultimate treasure—so finances fall into their proper place.If you’d like to take that journey, you can get your copy—or order in bulk for your church or small group—at FaithFi.com/Shop.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I want to buy savings bonds for my grandson’s first birthday, but my bank and credit union don’t handle them. Where do I go and how do I do it?My son bought a Jeep he...
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    25 m
  • What Monks Can Teach Us About Money with Dr. Shane Enete

    What Monks Can Teach Us About Money with Dr. Shane Enete
    Feb 17 2026
    Monks and money don’t seem to go together—but maybe they should. Early Christian monastics developed a biblical approach to possessions that offered freedom from fear and created space for generosity. Their example continues to resonate with believers navigating modern financial pressures.Dr. Shane Enete, Chair of the Finance Department at Biola University, joins the show today to help us explore what he calls “monk finances,” drawing on early Christian history to uncover insights that remain strikingly relevant today.Why Monks and Finances Feel Like OppositesFor many people, the idea of monks and money in the same sentence feels contradictory. That perception has historical roots.In the early centuries of the church, some believers reacted to growing spiritual complacency by withdrawing from society. These early monks sought lives of radical devotion and discipline. In extreme cases, they rejected material possessions entirely, viewing the physical world—and even the body itself—as spiritually dangerous.But this wasn’t the final word on monastic life.Leaders like St. Anthony and St. Benedict helped reshape the movement. They recognized that God created the material world before the fall; therefore, possessions, work, and even money could be used for His glory. Instead of rejecting material things, they began developing thoughtful, disciplined ways to steward them.Out of that shift came a surprisingly rich theology of money.Recovering a Biblical View of PossessionsAs monastic communities formed, they began to rethink how Christians should live with resources.Rather than treating money as evil, they saw it as necessary for life—but not as a source of identity or security. Their approach emphasized moderation, equality, and shared responsibility.Their guiding principle was simple: Meet your needs, then help meet the needs of others.Money became a tool for self-sufficiency that led to hospitality, not a means of achieving independence from God. This perspective echoed the Apostle Paul’s teaching to the early church, especially in communities wrestling with wealth and inequality.In many ways, the monks’ worldview stands in contrast to modern financial culture. Where today’s systems often prioritize accumulation and long-term personal security, the monastic tradition emphasized dependence on God and care for neighbor.Economic Sufficiency vs. Economic SecurityOne of the most striking insights from monastic life is the distinction between economic sufficiency and economic security.The monks worked hard. They cultivated gardens, produced goods, and provided for themselves. But they intentionally stopped short of building wealth for personal protection. Their goal was sufficiency—having enough to live and to share.A well-known story about St. Anthony illustrates this progression. After initially living in isolation, he began growing food to avoid burdening others. Eventually, he expanded his efforts to feed visitors and care for those who came seeking wisdom. His work produced enough for his needs and created margin for generosity. That pattern shaped monastic communities:Work diligentlyMeet basic needsCreate marginPractice hospitalityThey believed the danger came when financial planning shifted from provision to self-protection—when wealth began to replace trust in God.Guarding the Heart from the Love of MoneyMonks viewed wealth with a sober realism. They saw it as useful but spiritually risky.Money, they believed, has a way of whispering false assurances: “You’re safe. You’re secure. You don’t need God.”To guard against this, monastic communities developed “rules of living”—structured rhythms that shaped how they worked, spent, and shared. These practices served as guardrails, protecting their hearts from drifting into consumption and self-reliance.The goal wasn’t deprivation. It was clarity. They wanted money to remain a servant, never a master.The Power of an “Economy of Excess”One of the most compelling ideas to emerge from monastic life is what might be called an “economy of excess.”In many monasteries, individuals were trained not to consume everything they were given. Instead, they intentionally left a portion unused—placing it at the center of the table for others.Imagine a community of dozens of people, each holding back a small amount. The result was abundance. Tables overflowed, and anyone in need could be cared for.This practice created margin without requiring wealth.It also mirrors biblical principles found throughout Scripture. In the Old Testament, landowners were instructed not to harvest their fields to the edges so the poor could gather what remained. The design was intentional: leave space for others, and generosity becomes woven into everyday life.When consumption stops short of the limit, community flourishes.Freedom from Financial AnxietyThe monks’ approach offers a powerful corrective to modern financial anxiety.Today’s culture ...
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  • Gold and Silver: What Wise Investors Should Know

    Gold and Silver: What Wise Investors Should Know
    Feb 16 2026
    From ancient times to modern markets, gold and silver have captured people’s attention—especially during seasons of uncertainty. It’s one reason more believers are asking whether precious metals belong in their investment portfolios. The question isn’t simply financial; it’s also about stewardship. Where do metals fit—and where don’t they—when we’re seeking to make wise, faithful decisions with what God has entrusted to us?A Long History as a Store of ValuePrecious metals are among the oldest forms of money in human history. For thousands of years, gold and silver have served as a store of value. Even today, in an economy dominated by fiat currencies, they still carry an aura of stability and permanence.There’s a practical reason for that: governments can print more dollars, but they can’t print more gold or silver. As a result, investors often turn to metals during periods of inflation, geopolitical tensions, or financial instability. They’re commonly viewed as a hedge—an asset that may preserve purchasing power when confidence in broader systems begins to waver.That perception holds some truth. But it’s also important to separate reality from myth. Precious metals are not magic assets, and they don’t function like traditional growth investments.How Precious Metals Differ from Traditional InvestmentsThey Don’t Produce IncomeStocks may pay dividends, bonds generate interest, and real estate can produce rental income. Precious metals, by contrast, do not produce income. They simply exist as assets whose value rises or falls over time.That doesn’t mean they can’t appreciate. But it does mean their return profile is fundamentally different from owning productive assets. Gold sits still; businesses build.Prices Can Be VolatileMetals are often described as “safe,” yet their market prices can swing sharply. There have been extended seasons when gold and silver prices barely moved—or declined—reminding investors that stability and growth are not the same thing.Costs MatterOwning physical metals involves more than just the purchase price. Coins and bars often carry premiums, and they require storage, insurance, and security considerations.For those who prefer not to handle physical metals, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and similar vehicles offer another path. These track the price of gold or silver without the logistical challenges of storing them, making them a practical option for many investors.Allocation Is KeyFinancial professionals who favor precious metals typically recommend keeping them as a small portion of a diversified portfolio—often around 5%, and rarely more than 10%. When metals dominate a portfolio, they can crowd out assets better suited for long-term growth.What Scripture Says About Wealth and SecurityThe Bible references gold and silver frequently—not only as commodities, but also as symbols of value, beauty, craftsmanship, and worship. Yet Scripture consistently warns against placing our trust in them.Paul writes, “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God” (1 Timothy 6:17).The issue isn’t money itself; it’s misplaced hope. Gold cannot redeem us, rescue us, or ultimately secure our future. Only the Lord can do that.Proverbs echoes this truth: “The wealth of the rich is their fortified city; they imagine it a wall too high to scale” (Proverbs 18:11). The key word is imagine. Wealth—even in solid forms like precious metals—can create an illusion of safety.That’s especially important to remember because metals often attract attention during periods of fear. But fear is not a reliable investment strategy. Wisdom is. Fear rushes; wisdom moves slowly, with patience and prayer.Three Principles for Faithful Investors1. Metals Are a Tool, Not a TreasurePrecious metals don’t need to be spiritualized or demonized. They’re simply one part of God’s created resources—useful when held with open hands and proper perspective.2. They Should Complement, Not Replace, DiversificationSome investors feel tempted to go all-in on gold during uncertain times. But Scripture doesn’t call us to make decisions rooted in fear. Metals may play a role, but they shouldn’t replace a well-diversified plan built for long-term growth and stability.3. Every Financial Decision Is Ultimately SpiritualWhether investing in index funds, bonds, real estate, or bullion, the deeper question remains: Lord, how can I honor You with what You’ve entrusted to me?If precious metals help reduce risk, preserve purchasing power, or support generosity over time, they may serve a wise purpose. But if they fuel anxiety or foster a bunker mentality, they can quietly pull our hearts off course.Precious metals may help preserve purchasing power, but they don’t produce income, guarantee returns, or provide ultimate security. They are a hedge—not a haven.Our true security isn’t ...
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    25 m
  • The Money on Purpose Conference with Brian Holtz

    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

    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

    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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