Episodios

  • The Generosity of Saint Nicholas

    The Generosity of Saint Nicholas
    Dec 19 2025
    As Christmas Day draws near, we often hear stories of generosity, kindness, and the spirit of giving. But perhaps no story has inspired these virtues more than the life of St. Nicholas—a real man whose faith-filled generosity continues to echo through the centuries.Long before red suits and reindeer entered the picture, Nicholas lived a quiet, Christ-centered life marked by sacrificial love. His story reminds us that the true meaning of Christmas isn’t found in what we receive, but in how we reflect the love of Jesus to others.A Childhood Shaped by Faith—and LossNicholas was born around A.D. 280 into a wealthy Christian family in Patara, a bustling port city in modern-day Turkey. From an early age, his parents taught him the teachings of Jesus—especially the call to care for the poor and the vulnerable. Their daily example planted seeds of compassion that would later bear extraordinary fruit.A tragedy occurred when Nicholas was still young. An epidemic claimed the lives of both his parents, leaving him orphaned—but also leaving him with a significant inheritance. In his grief, Nicholas turned to his faith. Rather than clinging to his wealth, he saw it as a means to serve others and live out the gospel.Nicholas became known for quietly helping those in desperate situations. His most famous act of generosity involved a poor man and his three daughters. In that culture, a dowry was required for marriage. Without it, the daughters faced the horrifying prospect of being sold into slavery.Moved by their plight, Nicholas acted—secretly. Under the cover of night, he delivered a bag of gold to the family, securing the eldest daughter's future. He returned twice more, each time providing enough to ensure another daughter could marry safely.When the father eventually discovered Nicholas’s identity, Nicholas urged him to thank God alone. He took Jesus’ words to heart: “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing” (Matthew 6:3). Nicholas didn’t seek recognition—only faithfulness.A Shepherd With Courage and ConvictionLater in life, Nicholas became the bishop of Myra, where his compassion expanded beyond individuals to an entire community. He was known for defending the poor, standing up for the innocent, and shepherding his people with deep love.During the persecution of Christians under Emperor Diocletian, Nicholas risked imprisonment for his faith. He later attended the Council of Nicaea in A.D. 325, standing firm for the truth of the gospel. Yet what truly defined him wasn’t his position—it was his Christlike love.Nicholas lived as if true wealth was found not in possessions, but in a living relationship with God.After his death on December 6, A.D. 343, stories of Nicholas’s generosity spread across generations. He became known as a protector of children, a patron of sailors, and a symbol of selfless giving. Over time, his life inspired the figure we now associate with Santa Claus—but behind the legend stands a man devoted to glorifying God.The story of St. Nicholas challenges us to reconsider the meaning of Christmas. His life wasn’t about extravagant gifts or public praise. It was about embodying the love of Christ—sacrificial, humble, and freely given.Living the True Meaning of ChristmasThis Christmas, as we exchange gifts and gather with loved ones, let’s remember that the greatest gift has already been given—Jesus Christ, who came to save sinners and offer eternal life.Like St. Nicholas, we are called to share that gift with others. Through generosity, service, and simple acts of kindness, we can reflect the light of Christ in a world desperate for hope. As Jesus reminded us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”May the story of St. Nicholas inspire us to give generously, love deeply, and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas—because it’s not the gifts we receive, but the love we share, that makes this season truly special.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’ve heard that even if you have a will, your estate still has to go through court, but that having a trust allows you to avoid that. Is that correct? Since I currently have both a will and a trust, is it advisable to keep both?I’m the CFO of a company that’s considering a sale. The CEO wants to sell to a buyer I’m concerned could ultimately harm the company. Given my role, what counsel or perspective can I offer the CEO as we consider this decision?I’m 82 years old and have lost my eyesight, which makes it difficult to write checks and pay bills. What options are available for setting up automatic bill pay or managing my finances more easily?I’ll be retiring soon—I turn 62 next year—and I still owe about $119,000 on my home. I work part-time, and my husband works full-time. Should I start collecting Social Security now, even though I’ll continue working, so we can pay off the house more quickly?My husband and I are in...
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    25 m
  • Paying for College Through Military Service with Matt Bell

    Paying for College Through Military Service with Matt Bell
    Dec 18 2025
    With college costs rising faster than inflation, many families feel cornered—scrambling for scholarships, stretching savings, or bracing for years of student loan payments. But there’s one meaningful option that often gets overlooked: military service.For students who feel led to serve, military pathways can provide full tuition, a monthly stipend, and exceptional leadership development—all while graduating debt-free. Today, we sat down with Matt Bell, Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, to explore how these programs work and who they’re best suited for.Matt brings a personal connection to this topic. One of his sons is currently attending the U.S. Air Force Academy, and his insight helped illuminate both the opportunity—and the responsibility—this path entails.Why Military Education Pathways Are Often MissedFor the right student, military service can be a remarkable way to fund higher education. And that qualifier matters.As Matt shared, these programs are designed for students who are willing to serve their country and take on demanding challenges. In return, the military offers generous education benefits through several primary pathways—most notably the U.S. Service Academies and the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC).Beyond the financial benefits, these programs offer leadership training and real-world experience that traditional colleges can’t replicate. Matt mentioned that his son is currently choosing between summer programs such as jump school, where cadets learn to parachute, and soaring school, which involves flying gliders. Those aren’t exactly typical college electives.The U.S. Service Academies: What Families Should KnowThere are five U.S. Service Academies:U.S. Military Academy (West Point)U.S. Air Force AcademyU.S. Naval AcademyU.S. Coast Guard AcademyU.S. Merchant Marine AcademyAt each academy, tuition, room, and board are fully covered, and students receive a monthly stipend. But admission is highly competitive. Some academies have acceptance rates as low as 9–10%.Applicants are evaluated holistically. Strong academic performance, high SAT or ACT scores, physical fitness, athletic participation, and demonstrated leadership all matter. Character is essential as well—letters of recommendation play a key role.And then there’s one more hurdle: a nomination from a member of Congress or the Vice President (required for all academies except the Coast Guard). That process alone requires early planning and persistence.Graduates of the service academies don’t walk away with a “free” education—they earn it through service.Typically, graduates commit to five years of active-duty service followed by three years in the reserves. Specific roles, such as pilots, require longer commitments—often up to ten years after specialized training.All graduates are commissioned as officers, gaining leadership experience that opens doors to a wide range of future careers, both within and beyond the military.ROTC: A Different—but Still Powerful—OptionROTC offers another pathway and is available on more than 1,700 college campuses nationwide.Unlike the academies, ROTC students experience a more traditional college environment. They typically wear uniforms one day a week rather than full-time, and they integrate military training alongside their academic studies.ROTC scholarships can cover tuition and room and board, and graduates are commissioned at the same officer rank as academy graduates. Service commitments are generally slightly shorter, but the calling to serve remains central.As appealing as debt-free college and leadership training may sound, there’s a sobering reality families must weigh carefully.Choosing this path means committing to serve your country—and that includes the possibility of combat. This isn’t just a financial decision or a résumé booster. It requires discernment, maturity, conviction, and a willingness to place service above self.Final ThoughtsMilitary education pathways are not for every student—but for the right one, they can be transformative. They offer freedom from student debt, unparalleled leadership development, and the opportunity to serve something greater than oneself.As families prayerfully consider college decisions, this option deserves thoughtful, informed consideration—not just for what it provides, but for what it asks in return.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have Parkinson’s and will need to stop working soon. I live in a paid-off home, and I also own a beach property with a mortgage. Once I stop working, I won’t be able to afford that payment. The beach home has been on the market for over a year and a half without selling. If I allow the bank to foreclose on it, what are the consequences—especially when it comes to taxes and whether it could affect my primary residence?I’m trying to understand whether a will is enough for my situation or if I need additional estate planning. ...
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    25 m
  • How to Help the Poor this Christmas—and Beyond with Lisa Sheltra

    How to Help the Poor this Christmas—and Beyond with Lisa Sheltra
    Dec 17 2025
    The holidays naturally inspire generosity. As Christians, we feel a heightened awareness of need—empty tables, struggling families, and financial hardship made more visible by the contrast of celebration all around us. And that impulse to give is good.But God calls us to something deeper.True, Christ-centered generosity goes beyond a one-time act of charity. It invites us to walk alongside people in ways that restore dignity, build hope, and reflect God’s heart for renewal—not just during Christmas, but throughout the year.To explore what that kind of generosity looks like in practice, we sat down with Lisa Sheltra, Director of Community Engagement at Salt & Light, a ministry committed to helping without hurting by empowering individuals rather than creating dependency.A Biblical Vision for Deeper GenerosityScripture sets the tone for how we approach generosity. “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4). That verse reminds us that generosity is inherently relational. It’s not just about meeting needs—it’s about entering into someone’s life with humility and care.Lisa explained that while giving material help is often necessary, biblical generosity must flow from our relationship with Christ. God’s model for giving isn’t transactional. It’s restorative.She pointed to John 3:16 as the ultimate framework for generosity. When God gave, He didn’t offer something temporary or superficial—He gave His Son to address our deepest brokenness and bring true flourishing. If our generosity reflects God’s heart, it should aim not only to relieve immediate pain but to support long-term restoration, reconciliation, and community.Many churches and families feel pressure in December to focus heavily on relief efforts—food drives, toy collections, clothing donations. These are good and often necessary responses, especially in moments of crisis.But Lisa cautioned that relief, by its nature, creates a giver-receiver imbalance. When relief becomes the default instead of the exception, it can unintentionally harm both sides of the relationship. It can reduce people to passive recipients and rob them of agency, dignity, and participation.Relief is best understood as a tourniquet—it stops the bleeding in an emergency. But most ongoing struggles, including those we notice during the holidays, are not emergencies. They are development needs, requiring long-term walking together, not repeated short-term fixes.Relief vs. Development: Understanding the DifferenceSalt & Light works closely with principles championed by the Chalmers Center, which emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between relief and development.Relief addresses urgent, immediate crises.Development focuses on long-term growth, dignity, and restored relationships.During the holidays, what looks like an emergency is often a symptom of a deeper, ongoing struggle. Repeated relief may feel satisfying to the giver, but it rarely moves families toward lasting stability or community.Development, on the other hand, invites people to use their own gifts, make their own choices, and participate fully in solutions. It treats individuals not as problems to fix, but as image-bearers with capacity and value.At Salt & Light, empowerment isn’t seasonal—it’s woven into everyday ministry. Participants invest in the program year-round and are treated not as charity cases, but as customers and guests with agency.Rather than handing out preselected gifts, families can choose items for their loved ones. That choice matters deeply. Lisa shared that many participants have said, “This is the first Christmas in years I’ve been able to buy gifts for my family myself.”That shift—from receiving charity to exercising choice—restores dignity in powerful ways.A Better Path for ChurchesFor churches wanting to steward holiday generosity wisely, Lisa offered several practical insights:Partner with ministries already practicing development. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel.Encourage relational volunteering, not just donation drives.Support year-round ministries, not just seasonal projects.Use the holidays as an on-ramp, connecting people’s enthusiasm for giving to sustainable, ongoing involvement.The goal isn’t to do more—it’s to do good in ways that last.What This Looks Like for IndividualsMany believers want to help but fear causing harm. The answer isn’t to stop giving—it’s to give differently.Lisa encouraged individuals to approach generosity with humility and a willingness to learn. We don’t need perfect solutions. We need presence, patience, listening ears, and respect for dignity.She reminded us that kingdom impact isn’t measured by numbers alone. While it may feel impressive to count meals served or gifts distributed, God’s metrics are relational. Sometimes faithfulness looks like doing for one what we wish we could do for everyone.When asked to ...
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    25 m
  • Home Equity: The Most Overlooked Asset in Retirement Planning with Harlan Accola

    Home Equity: The Most Overlooked Asset in Retirement Planning with Harlan Accola
    Dec 16 2025
    Many retirees today feel squeezed. Rising costs, fixed incomes, and market uncertainty can make the retirement years feel more fragile than expected. Yet for many households, one of their largest assets—their home—often sits unused in their financial plan.For years, reverse mortgages carried a mixed reputation. But significant reforms over the last decade have reshaped the program, making today’s options safer, more flexible, and better aligned with thoughtful retirement planning. Today, we are joined by Harlan Accola, National Reverse Mortgage Director with Movement Mortgage, to explore how home equity can play a more intentional role in retirement.Why Home Equity Is Often OverlookedFor many retirees, their home represents their single largest asset. Yet it’s frequently absent from retirement conversations.One reason is perception. Outdated assumptions and negative press have long hampered reverse mortgages. Another reason is structural: many financial advisors simply aren’t trained—or compensated—to incorporate home equity into retirement planning. As a result, planning conversations often focus on investments, Social Security, pensions, and insurance, while equity is quietly ignored.That oversight can create strain. When too much wealth is locked inside a home, retirees may feel cash-poor even while sitting on significant net worth—especially if they’re still making monthly mortgage payments.Much of what people fear about reverse mortgages no longer applies. Major legislative reforms roughly a decade ago addressed earlier concerns and strengthened consumer protections. Today’s reverse mortgage programs are federally regulated and far more transparent.In fact, recent industry surveys—including data from J.D. Power—show that more than 90% of reverse mortgage borrowers report being satisfied with their experience. As more people hear positive stories from neighbors and friends, perceptions continue to shift.Key Benefits of Today’s Reverse MortgagesThe most immediate benefit for many retirees is simple: eliminating a monthly mortgage payment. I’ve spoken with retirees who are using a significant portion of their Social Security income just to cover housing costs. Removing that payment can dramatically improve monthly cash flow—even for those who technically “can afford” the payment.Another powerful benefit is preparation. Long-term care remains one of the largest unfunded risks in retirement. For homeowners who have already paid off their house, a reverse mortgage can establish a guaranteed line of credit before it’s needed. Think of it as getting an umbrella before it starts raining—access to funds that can be used later if health care needs arise or unexpected expenses surface.A Third Bucket in Retirement PlanningTraditionally, retirees think in terms of two buckets: income and investments. But home equity can function as a third.The early years of retirement are often the most critical. Drawing too quickly from investments doesn’t just reduce the balance—it also eliminates years of future growth. By using home equity strategically, retirees may be able to reduce pressure on their investment portfolio, delay Social Security, and extend the longevity of their overall plan.In many cases, this isn’t about necessity—it’s about stewardship. Rather than leaving a major asset idle or waiting until it must be accessed in distress, home equity can be used intentionally to support stability, flexibility, and peace of mind.Reverse mortgages aren’t for everyone, and they should always be evaluated carefully within a broader financial plan. But for those in the later seasons of life—especially homeowners still making payments or struggling to meet monthly expenses—they can be a valuable option.When used wisely, home equity isn’t about giving something up. It’s about stewarding what God has already entrusted to you, so your resources serve you well throughout retirement.To learn more, visit Movement.com/Faith.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I own a small business with about 10 employees, and I’m looking to set up a 401(k). I’m not sure which type makes the most sense or how to get started—can you help point me in the right direction?I’ve been furloughed, and I’m considering borrowing from my 401(k). I’m trying to understand the tax implications of taking out $50,000 and splitting it between 2025 and 2026. Would it be wiser to take half each year, especially given the uncertainty ahead?I’m a widow with no children or close family. I’ve heard of revocable trusts and powers of attorney, and I’m trying to understand the difference between them. Specifically, how does having a power of attorney compare to setting up a revocable trust—especially if I were to become incapacitated?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Movement MortgageIRS.gov | 401(k) Plans For Small ...
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    25 m
  • 2025 Year-End Tax Tips with Kevin Cross

    2025 Year-End Tax Tips with Kevin Cross
    Dec 15 2025
    We’re deep into December, and the window for smart year-end tax planning is closing quickly. Taxes may not be at the top of your Christmas wish list, but they are an important reminder of God’s provision—and an opportunity to honor Him through wise stewardship.As Scripture reminds us, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1). That includes the resources He’s entrusted to us. Thoughtful planning isn’t about avoiding responsibility—it’s about managing God’s gifts with intention and gratitude.Today, we sat down with Kevin Cross, a seasoned CPA who has helped countless families navigate taxes with clarity and confidence. As we approach December 31 and look ahead to 2026, here are some of the most important moves to consider.Rethinking Charitable Giving at Year-EndCharitable giving is always close to the hearts of our listeners, and year-end is an especially strategic time to consider it.Recent changes to the tax code—including a higher standard deduction and an expanded SALT (state and local tax) deduction—mean many households may now benefit from itemizing again. If that’s you, making charitable contributions before December 31 could provide meaningful tax benefits.But even if your standard deduction is still too high to itemize, there’s another strategy worth considering: bundling your giving. Instead of spreading donations evenly each year, you might combine two years’ worth of giving into one year. That can push you over the itemization threshold and maximize the tax benefit—while still supporting the ministries and causes you care about.Why a Donor-Advised Fund Is a Powerful ToolIf you don’t yet know precisely where you want to give, a donor-advised fund (DAF) can be an incredibly flexible option. We often call it a charitable checking account. You receive the tax deduction when you contribute to the fund, then take your time prayerfully distributing gifts to qualified charities.Kevin likes to say it’s “the most fun fund you’ll ever have”—because it encourages generosity while allowing your resources to be invested and potentially grow before they’re given.For those who want to ensure their giving supports gospel-centered ministries, I recommend opening a donor-advised fund through the National Christian Foundation (NCF). It’s a wonderful way to align generosity with faith-based impact. You can learn more at FaithFi.com/NCF.A New Opportunity for Children and Grandchildren (Starting in 2026)One of the most talked-about developments Kevin highlighted is a new child tax savings account (Trump Account), set to begin in 2026. While no action can be taken until then, it’s worth knowing what to expect.Under this provision, eligible children may receive a government-funded seed contribution, and families can contribute up to $5,000 per year. Even more interesting: businesses may be able to contribute up to $2,500 tax-free under the right circumstances—while still receiving a deduction.What makes this especially notable for generous families is that donor-advised funds may be used to contribute to these accounts, creating new ways to bless the next generation while maintaining a strong commitment to charitable giving. Proper planning and paperwork will be essential, but this is an opportunity many families will want to explore.Qualified Charitable Distributions: A Missed Opportunity for ManyOne of the most underutilized tax strategies Kevin sees involves Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)—and it always surprises me how many people don’t know about them.If you’re 70½ or older, you can give directly from your IRA to a qualified charity and exclude that distribution from taxable income. Once you reach the age for required minimum distributions (RMDs), this becomes even more powerful. Instead of taking the distribution, paying taxes, and then giving what’s left, you can give directly—often satisfying your RMD without increasing your tax bill.And this isn’t limited to small amounts. You can give up to $100,000 per year through QCDs. It’s one of the most effective charitable strategies available, especially for retirees who want to give generously while managing their tax burden wisely.Stewardship with PurposeTaxes can feel complex, frustrating, or even discouraging—but they don’t have to be. When we view them through the lens of stewardship, they become another opportunity to align our financial decisions with God’s purposes.Kevin Cross brings both expertise and encouragement to this conversation, reminding us that wise planning isn’t about fear—it’s about faithfulness. If you’d like to learn more about Kevin and his work, you can visit KevinCrossCPA.com.As we close out the year, our prayer is that your financial decisions reflect gratitude for what God has provided—and confidence that He will continue to lead you as you steward it well.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have about ...
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    25 m
  • How to Have a Christ-Centered Christmas Without Overspending with Crystal Paine

    How to Have a Christ-Centered Christmas Without Overspending with Crystal Paine
    Dec 12 2025
    Christmas is meant to be a season of joy—but for many of us, it becomes a whirlwind of overspending, overcommitting, and feeling overwhelmed. The good news? It doesn’t have to be that way. With a bit of planning and the right perspective, you can slow down, simplify, and savor what truly matters.Today, Crystal Payne—creator of MoneySavingMom.com—shared practical ways to simplify Christmas while keeping your heart centered on Christ. Here’s a look at her best advice for making this season more peaceful, meaningful, and budget-friendly.Rediscover the Meaning of ChristmasBefore diving into logistics or budgeting, Crystal encourages families to anchor the season in what matters most.1. Practice Daily Advent ReflectionsHer family uses Ann Voskamp’s Advent book, complete with ornaments and daily devotionals. The readings are short, kid-friendly, and a gentle, daily reminder of the story at the heart of Christmas.2. Create a Family Giving ProjectEvery December, Crystal’s children choose a giving project—something meaningful to them—and the whole family contributes. The kids even make donation boxes and help gather change throughout the month. It’s a hands-on way to practice generosity and keep the focus on others.Simplify Your Gift ListFor many people, gift-giving is the biggest stressor in December.Crystal recommends asking yourself:Who do I feel I should buy for?Who do I want to buy for?What budget do I realistically have?If your list and budget don’t match, consider simplifying:Family gifts instead of individual giftsExperience gifts rather than itemsHomemade or low-cost gifts, especially for people who “have everything”Crystal’s free Christmas guide at MoneySavingMom.com includes 15 simple DIY gift ideas—from movie-night boxes to Sharpie-designed mugs to homemade baked goods.Keep Spending in CheckOverspending is easy at Christmas—but planning helps.Save Throughout the YearIt’s too late for this season, but Crystal encourages starting a Christmas sinking fund in January. A little each month makes December much lighter.Use Gift Cards as Your BudgetIf you shop online, buying prepaid gift cards (or using ones earned through surveys or reward apps) helps you avoid overspending. When the card is empty, the shopping is done.If money is tight this year, you still have wonderful options:Homemade food gifts: cookie dough, loaves of bread, granola, sweet breadsExperience gifts: monthly treats, babysitting, laundry help, home-cooked mealsSentimental gifts: photo books, recipe collections, handwritten lettersThese gifts often mean more than store-bought items because they’re personal, thoughtful, and memorable.Make Holiday Cooking EasierFood prep can dominate December, but Crystal suggests planning ahead:Make a list of everything you hope to cookShop ahead of timePrep and freeze items like cookie dough, rolls, sweet breads, or dessertsTake shortcuts when needed—premade dough or bread can be inexpensive and time-savingA few hours of prep can give you more space for the moments that matter.Plan Meaningful Family Time (Without Overfilling Your Calendar)Crystal offers several delightful ideas to create memories without adding stress.1. Make a December Bucket ListEach family member chooses one or two special activities. That’s it. This keeps the schedule joyful rather than jam-packed—and ensures you’re doing what everyone actually values.2. Wrap and Read Christmas BooksWrap books you already own and open one each day in December. Kids love the anticipation, and it becomes a shared daily moment.3. Celebrate Early as a FamilyBecause they travel to visit extended family, Crystal’s family sets aside a full “Christmas Day” together the week before. It allows them to savor time at home without rushing through traditions.Stay Organized and Reduce StressCrystal’s top principle: Ask, “How can I make this easier?”A few of her go-to strategies:Write everything down – brain dump into Google Calendar so it’s not “living in your head.”Time-block your to-dos – small chunks of planned tasks prevent last-minute chaos.Share the workload – say “yes” when someone offers help. Ask guests to bring a dish. Let kids take part in preparations.Simplifying isn’t just about doing less—it’s about doing what matters most with more peace.Crystal’s brand-new resource includes:15 DIY gift ideasFood gifts, homemade gifts, and simple creative optionsIdeas to simplify and save money this ChristmasYou can download it for free at MoneySavingMom.com.A Final WordCrystal’s wisdom reminds us that Christmas doesn’t need to be hectic or expensive to be meaningful. With planning, intention, and a focus on Christ, you can give joyfully—not regretfully.And if you’re looking for help managing your Christmas budget—or planning for any financial season—the FaithFi App can be a tremendous toolkit. It’s designed not just to track your spending, but to help you align every financial...
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    25 m
  • How Faith Shapes Every Financial Decision with Afton Phillips

    How Faith Shapes Every Financial Decision with Afton Phillips
    Dec 11 2025
    Faith shapes every part of life—not only what we believe, but how we spend, save, invest, and give. Every financial decision reveals something about what we value, trust, and treasure most. That’s why conversations about money are never just about budgets or balances; they’re deeply spiritual.Today, Afton Phillips, our Head of Content at FaithFi, joins the show to talk about how our faith reshapes the way we steward God’s resources. This conversation grew out of our upcoming 21-day devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure, and the themes behind it.The Heart Behind the New DevotionalAfton has been shaping this project from its earliest concept to its final pages. She shared that when she first joined FaithFi, she longed for a place where people could revisit core biblical principles—not simply hear them once, but reflect on them deeply.“Money isn’t just about math,” Afton said. “It’s really about our hearts.”The devotional walks readers through foundational truths:God owns it all.Money issues are heart issues.Our financial lives are deeply connected to our spiritual formation.If that’s true, then what we need isn’t a formula—it’s space with God. Scripture. Prayer. Reflection. This devotional is designed to help readers slow down long enough to allow God to reshape how they see and handle money.Redefining Success: What We Surrender, Not What We StoreOne of the early themes in Our Ultimate Treasure is the truth that God doesn’t measure success by what we store up, but by what we surrender.We’re all tempted to believe that just a little more—more savings, more security, more achievement—will finally bring peace. But no amount of accumulation ever delivers the rest our souls crave.True biblical success is about formation more than finances.Are we growing in Christlikeness?Are the fruits of the Spirit becoming more evident in our lives?Are we learning to let go of fear, control, and comfort so God can shape us?When surrender becomes the lens, money stops being a monument to ourselves and becomes a tool for becoming more like Jesus.Restoring Purpose in Our WorkAnother key section of the devotional explores a truth we often forget: work is not a curse—it’s a calling.From the very beginning, God designed work as something good. Not something we merely do to earn or survive, but something through which we participate in His redemptive mission.Your desk, job site, classroom, or kitchen table isn’t just a workplace—it’s holy ground. Your work is one of the primary arenas where God shapes your character and blesses others through you.Why Margin Matters for Faithful StewardshipMargin is one of the most important threads running through the entire devotional.Afton put it simply:“Margin creates space for God to move.”When we max out:our moneyour timeour energyWe leave no room to listen, pause, or respond to God’s leading.Margin isn’t restrictive. It’s freeing. It enables generosity, rest, trust, and wise decision-making. It’s one of the clearest marks of faithful stewardship.The Power of Wise CounselMoney can feel personal—sometimes even private. But Scripture is clear: we’re not meant to navigate finances alone.Every day, callers to our program remind us how many people long for guidance, encouragement, and clarity. That’s why we devoted an entire day in the devotional to seeking wise counsel.Afton shared:“When we invite wise counsel into our lives, we begin to see things we might have missed.”That’s also why Certified Kingdom Advisors (CKA) exist—to help believers apply biblical principles to their real-life financial situations. You can find one at FindaCKA.com.Generosity Rooted in Grace, Not GuiltIf there’s a single thread that runs through the whole devotional, it’s generosity.But not guilt-driven generosity. Grace-driven generosity.We give because God has first given to us—lavishly, sacrificially, joyfully. When we understand His grace, generosity becomes something we get to do, not something we feel pressured into.Every act of giving becomes an act of worship.A Devotional Designed for Reflection, Beauty, and FormationOne of the most unique aspects of Our Ultimate Treasure is its built-in rhythm of reflection.Each day includes:ScriptureA devotionalGuided reflection questionsA written prayerBeautiful, thoughtful imageryThe artwork itself invites contemplation. Everyday images—like a simple desk—are visually transformed to reflect biblical truth, reminding readers that God reshapes the way we see everything, even our work and money.This devotional was designed not just to be read, but to be experienced.Finishing with What Truly Lasts: Eternal RewardsThe final day draws us back to what matters most: our ultimate treasure is Christ Himself.Earthly wealth fades. Opportunities change. Seasons shift. But our life in Christ—His presence, His love, His Kingdom—endures forever. Afton summed it up beautifully:“What are we investing in that ...
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    25 m
  • Smart Year-End Financial Moves with Cole Pearson

    Smart Year-End Financial Moves with Cole Pearson
    Dec 10 2025
    As the year winds down, most of us feel the crunch of holiday travel, family gatherings, and a calendar that fills up faster than we expect. But this season also offers something incredibly valuable: a natural pause. A moment to look back, look ahead, and make sure our financial lives still reflect the things—and the people—we care about most.To help us think through this year-end reset, we sat down with Cole Pearson, President of Investment Solutions at OneAscent, a family of companies committed to helping believers invest in alignment with biblical values. Cole shares practical, hope-filled steps to set your finances on a firm footing as you head into a new year.Start With What Matters Most: Your ValuesBefore crunching numbers or updating accounts, Cole suggests beginning with the why behind your financial decisions.“As the year winds down,” he says, “it’s the perfect time to pause and make sure our financial life still reflects our actual life—our goals and values.”This is the heart of wise stewardship. Money isn’t the goal; it’s a tool. And when our tools aren’t aligned with what matters most, our decisions can drift.Cole encourages families to sit down—whether with a spouse, children, or even a financial advisor—and ask a simple but powerful question:“What is most important for us to reflect through our financial life?”These conversations reconnect us with the things God has entrusted to us: people, opportunities, relationships, and resources. When your values are clear, your financial decisions begin to tell a consistent story.The Three Lenses for a Year-End CheckupTo help families gain clarity, OneAscent uses three helpful “lenses” that offer a holistic view of stewardship. Each one enables you to assess where you are and where God may be inviting you to grow.1. Perspectives: How You Think and Feel About MoneyEvery financial decision begins with a mindset. Do you naturally want to give? Save? Spend? Invest?None of these instincts is wrong—money is simply a tool. But understanding how God has wired you helps you use that tool intentionally rather than reactively.2. Priorities: What Matters Most to Your FamilyOnce your perspectives are clear, it’s time to identify your priorities.Is this season about legacy?Providing stability for your family?Creating margin for relationships?Leaning more fully into generosity?“When you know your top priorities,” Cole says, “you can give every dollar a job. It brings focus and direction to your plan.”3. Milestones: What’s Changing in Your Life?The end of the year is a great time to reflect on transitions:A new jobA retirementA new child or grandchildA loss in the familyA health changeLife transitions always put money in motion. Recognizing them early allows you to adjust your financial plan before drifting off course.Together, perspectives, priorities, and milestones provide a complete picture of your financial health—and help ensure your plans align with your values.Preparing for the Year Ahead Through Intentional GenerosityFor many families, generosity naturally comes up during year-end reflections. The holidays remind us that giving is both worship and witness—an expression of God’s grace through us.Cole encourages families to approach generosity as intentionally as investing.“Whether you’re investing or giving,” he says, “we think of both as investing God’s resources. We want all of it moving in the same direction—reflecting the same values.”Talking about generosity as a family:Fosters unityClarifies your shared purposeCreates a legacy of open-handed livingThis is a season when many families give. But it’s also the perfect time to ask: “How can our giving reflect what we believe most deeply?”Considering Faith-Based Investing in 2026Some listeners may be feeling a nudge toward Faith-Based Investing in the coming year. If so, Cole suggests an easy first step: screen your current portfolio.“Start by asking what you’re invested in that may not align with your faith,” he says. Screening helps identify areas where your dollars are unintentionally supporting companies or causes that conflict with biblical values.From there, you can begin redirecting your investments toward companies that create blessing, contribute to human flourishing, and reflect God’s heart.This simple exercise can lead to a powerful sense of alignment between your faith and your finances.Explore Values-Aligned Investing With OneAscentOneAscent exists to help believers invest with clarity and conviction—directing capital toward companies that make a positive impact and reflect biblical values. To learn more or begin screening your own portfolio, visit: OneAscent.com/FaithFi.It’s a great next step as you prepare to start a new year with purpose, unity, and renewed stewardship.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’ve been offered a small settlement after several years of litigation. My attorney ...
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