Episodios

  • Preparing the Next Steward

    Preparing the Next Steward
    Apr 10 2026
    Jonathan Edwards once said, “True legacy consists not of what we leave behind, but of what we instill in others.” That insight cuts against the grain of how many of us think about inheritance. We often focus on leaving behind money, assets, or property. But Scripture calls us to think bigger. What we pass on isn’t just wealth—it’s wisdom, character, and a legacy of faithfulness. So the real question isn’t simply, "What will I leave behind?" It’s, “Who am I preparing to receive it?” The Tension: Wealth Without Wisdom There’s a natural desire in all of us to provide for the people we love—children, grandchildren, or others God has entrusted to our care. And that desire is good. Proverbs 13:22 reminds us: “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.” But Scripture also gives us a warning. Proverbs 20:21 says, “An inheritance gained hastily in the beginning will not be blessed in the end.” Why? Because when wealth is passed on without wisdom, it can become more of a burden than a blessing. The goal isn’t just to transfer assets—it’s to transfer stewardship. Your heirs are not merely recipients. They are future managers of what ultimately belongs to God. And that changes everything. Inheritance Is About Responsibility Throughout Scripture, inheritance is deeply tied to identity and responsibility. In the Old Testament, land wasn’t just property—it was connected to covenant, calling, and faithfulness. Families didn’t simply receive something; they were entrusted with something. The same is true today. If we pass on wealth without preparing the heart, we risk creating confusion—or even harm. But if we invest in spiritual formation, in a biblical understanding of stewardship, and in trust in God as the true Provider, then what we leave behind becomes a tool for Kingdom impact. How to Prepare the Next Steward 1. Model Faithful Stewardship More is caught than taught. The way you handle money right now—how you spend, save, give, and trust God—is shaping the next generation, whether you realize it or not. Your financial life is telling a story: Is it a story of fear or faith?Of accumulation or generosity?Of control or surrender? Long before your children or grandchildren receive anything from you, they are learning from you. 2. Communicate Intentionally One of the biggest mistakes families make is avoiding conversations about money, values, and legacy. But silence creates confusion. Deuteronomy 6:6–7 encourages us to talk about God’s ways throughout everyday life. That includes how we think about money. Talk about: Why you giveHow you make financial decisionsWhat you hope they carry forward Help them see that money isn’t the goal—it’s a tool. 3. Train, Don’t Just Transfer Psalm 78 calls us to tell the next generation the works of God so that they will “set their hope in God.” Faithfulness is learned over time. That means giving the next generation opportunities to practice stewardship now—not someday. It might look like: Helping a child budget their allowanceInviting a teenager into family giving decisionsWalking alongside an adult child as they navigate financial choices We’re not just preparing them to receive—we’re preparing them to steward. 4. Trust God With the Outcome This is where it becomes deeply personal. Even with the best preparation, you can’t control what someone else will do. At some point, you release what you’ve taught, modeled, and invested—and entrust it to God. Psalm 24:1 reminds us: “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof.” That includes your resources—and your legacy. You are not the owner. You are the steward. And the same will be true for the next generation. The Legacy That Matters Most So instead of asking, “How much should I leave behind?” a better question might be: “How well am I preparing the one who will receive it?” Because the greatest inheritance you can leave isn’t what’s in your accounts. It’s a heart that treasures God above all. It’s a life that says, “God owns it all. I am His steward.” It’s a vision of money as a tool to serve His purposes. That’s the kind of legacy that impacts your children—and your children’s children. Take the Next Step If you want to explore this idea more deeply, Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship walks through what it means to see God—not money—as our ultimate treasure. You can order a copy for yourself or receive a discount when you place a bulk order for your church or small group at FaithFi.com/Shop. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Should my 78-year-old brother keep his 2.2% mortgage or pay it off and invest instead? Also, how should we approach selling his out-of-state property—back to family or to an investor?I’m setting up a trust—what should I expect to pay, and what factors should I consider?After selling our home, should we use the ...
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    25 m
  • Powerful Financial Principles from God’s Word with Sharon Epps

    Powerful Financial Principles from God’s Word with Sharon Epps
    Apr 9 2026
    God’s Word doesn’t just tell us how to manage money—it transforms how we see it. Too often, we approach finances as a purely practical matter: budgets, investments, and goals. But Scripture invites us into something deeper. It reframes money not as something we own, but something entrusted to us by God. When we begin to see money through that lens, everything changes. Today, Sharon Epps, President of Kingdom Advisors, joined the show to unpack several powerful, biblical principles that shape faithful stewardship. These aren’t just financial tips—they’re spiritual truths that guide how we live. Let’s explore them. 1. The Power of Trust It may be surprising, but the foundation of wise financial stewardship isn’t money—it’s trust. Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Before we talk about budgets or strategies, we must understand our role. God is the owner. We are the stewards. That truth brings freedom. It means your financial future doesn’t ultimately rest on your income, your employer, or the economy—it rests on God as your provider. And when you trust Him, you can seek His direction rather than relying solely on your own plans. 2. The Power of Focus In a world that celebrates multitasking, Scripture calls us to focus. Proverbs 4:25 says, “Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you.” And Proverbs 16:3 adds, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” Many people feel financially stuck, not because they lack resources, but because they’re trying to do too much at once—pay off debt, save aggressively, invest, give more, and upgrade their lifestyle. The result? Frustration and burnout. Instead, ask a simple question: What is the next step God is calling me to take? Then focus on that one thing. Progress often comes not from doing everything at once, but from faithfully taking the next step in front of you. 3. The Power of Priorities Every financial decision reflects a priority. Because our resources are limited, every dollar spent in one area affects another. That’s why setting priorities is essential. A helpful framework is the “live, give, owe, grow” model. And notably, the order matters. Start with giving. Then focus on growing (saving and investing). After that, address debt (owing), and finally, living expenses. One practical starting point is the 10-10-80 principle: 10% to give10% to save or invest80% for living and obligations This isn’t a rigid rule, but a helpful guide. Within that 80%, three areas tend to have the greatest impact: HousingTransportationFood If more than half of your income is tied up in those three categories, it becomes difficult to maintain balance in your financial life. That’s why big decisions—like buying a home or choosing a vehicle—carry long-term consequences. As Proverbs 27:23 says, “Know well the condition of your flocks.” In other words, pay attention to where your money is going—especially in the areas that matter most. 4. The Power of Planning Good intentions aren’t enough. Faithful stewardship requires a plan. That means deciding in advance how you will use your money—before the month begins. Planning your spending helps you move from reacting to intentional living. Whether you use a digital tool or a simple system, the goal is the same: to give every dollar a purpose. One time-tested approach is the envelope system—assigning categories to your spending and tracking what remains. Interestingly, research shows that when we’re more aware of our spending (what experts call “saliency”), we tend to spend less. That’s one reason using cash—or closely tracking your spending—can be so effective. Without a plan, money tends to drift. With a plan, it begins to align with your values. 5. The Power of Decision-Making Every purchase is an opportunity to seek wisdom. James 1:5 offers this promise: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God… and it will be given him.” Before making a financial decision, consider asking: Is this expense essential?Will it help or hurt my financial situation?Does it move me closer to my goals—or set me back?Can I wait?Is there a less expensive alternative? In a culture of instant gratification—where purchases can arrive at your door within hours—it’s easy to move too quickly. But wisdom often requires slowing down. Sometimes, the best financial decision is simply pausing long enough to think and pray. 6. The Power of Unity Money is rarely just about numbers—it’s about relationships. For couples, one of the most powerful financial habits is intentional communication. Consider setting aside a regular “money date”—a time each month to review your finances, talk about upcoming expenses, and align on goals. These conversations build unity. And as Sharon ...
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    25 m
  • The Cycle of Grateful Living with John Cortines

    The Cycle of Grateful Living with John Cortines
    Apr 8 2026
    “Everyone also to whom God has given wealth and possessions and the power to enjoy them…this is the gift of God.” — Ecclesiastes 5:19 What if true joy doesn’t come from gaining more—but from gratefully receiving what God has already provided? That’s the invitation we find in Ecclesiastes, and it’s the focus of a powerful conversation with John Cortines, Director of Partnerships and Growth at the McClellan Foundation and author of FaithFi’s study on the book of Ecclesiastes called, Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money. His insight centers on what he calls the cycle of grateful living—a biblical framework that reshapes how we view money, work, and contentment. Rediscovering Joy in God’s Gifts Ecclesiastes 5:18–20 sits at the heart of Scripture’s teaching on money and meaning. These verses remind us of something we often overlook: Not only are wealth and possessions gifts from God, but so is the ability to enjoy them. That means joy isn’t something we manufacture through achievement or accumulation. It’s something we receive. Whether we have little or much, Scripture calls us to find satisfaction in the life God has already given us—our work, our relationships, and even our daily routines. Yet many of us miss this. We’re quick to recognize the dangers of money, but slow to embrace the goodness of God’s provision. The “E.A.T.” Cycle for Grateful Living John Cortines summarizes this biblical vision with a simple acronym: E.A.T. 1. Enjoy God’s Provision Everything we have—our resources, our health, our relationships—is a gift. Even the capacity to enjoy these things is given by God. Gratitude begins when we recognize that nothing we have is ultimately self-made. It all flows from His hand. 2. Accept Life’s Brevity Ecclesiastes repeatedly reminds us that life is short. This isn’t meant to discourage us—but to awaken us. When we accept the limits of our time and season, we begin to live with greater purpose. We stop postponing joy and start embracing the present as a gift. 3. Toil with Joy Work is not something to escape—it’s something to embrace. While our culture often dreams of financial independence as freedom from work, Scripture presents a different vision. We were created with purpose, and meaningful work is part of that design. Even in retirement, we’re called to engage in what is good, fruitful, and God-honoring. What Gets in the Way of Joy? If this cycle is so clear, why do so few people experience it? Cortines points out three common obstacles: Taking God’s provision for granted instead of cultivating gratitudeIgnoring life’s brevity, living as if time is unlimitedResenting our work, constantly longing for escape These patterns lead to anxiety, discontentment, and a constant pursuit of “more.” Ironically, many people today live with more wealth and comfort than any generation in history—yet struggle deeply with dissatisfaction. As Cortines notes, even great wealth cannot produce lasting joy on its own. A Better Vision Than “Someday” One of the most subtle traps in our culture is the belief that joy lies somewhere in the future: When I earn more…When I retire…When life slows down… But Scripture calls us to something radically different. Joy is not found in a future we’re trying to build—it’s found in the present moment with Christ. This echoes Jesus’ teaching in Luke 12, where He points to the birds and the flowers. They do not worry, yet God provides for them. Their lives are both sustained and limited—and so are ours. This is both comforting and sobering: God will provide for us.Our time here is brief. So instead of striving endlessly, we’re invited to live faithfully and gratefully today. What Does a Grateful Life Look Like? Ecclesiastes 5:20 gives us a beautiful picture: “God keeps him occupied with joy in his heart.” This kind of life is marked by: Presence instead of distractionPeace instead of anxietyContentment instead of comparison It’s a life where gratitude crowds out worry—where the heart is so full of God’s goodness that it no longer fixates on what’s missing. Living Within Our Limits—and God’s Greatness One of the most profound insights from Ecclesiastes is this: we are small, and that’s okay. In a world that tells us to dream bigger and achieve more, Scripture gently reminds us that our lives are finite—but God is not. And that’s where true freedom is found. We don’t need to be everything or accomplish everything. Christ has already accomplished what matters most. Our role is simply to be faithful in the life we’ve been given. Finding Joy in What God Has Already Given The cycle of grateful living is simple—but deeply transformative: Enjoy what God has givenAccept the limits of your lifeRejoice in the work before you When we live this way, we step out of the endless pursuit of “more” and into the quiet, steady joy of God’s presence. And in ...
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    25 m
  • Our Ultimate Treasure: Intentional Giving

    Our Ultimate Treasure: Intentional Giving
    Apr 7 2026
    Every day, we make decisions about money—but not every decision is made on purpose. When it comes to generosity, many of us wrestle with familiar questions: Where should I give? How much is enough? Does my giving really make a difference? But Scripture invites us to see generosity differently—not as a financial habit, but as an act of discipleship. Intentional giving connects our everyday resources to God’s redemptive work in the world. From Overwhelmed to On Mission We’re surrounded by needs. Local churches, global missions, ministries serving the poor, organizations strengthening families and sharing the gospel—the opportunities are endless. And because of that, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or default to reactive giving when something tugs at our hearts. But God’s Word points us to something deeper. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Generosity isn’t random. It’s part of the purpose God has written into your life. You’re not just managing money—you’re participating in His mission. Generosity That Lasts Intentional giving begins when we realize that our work and income aren’t just about survival or success. They’re about joining God in meeting needs and restoring lives. The Apostle Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6:18–19 that we are “to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share… thus storing up treasure… so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” Every intentional gift becomes an investment in eternity. It’s a present-tense glimpse of God’s Kingdom breaking into this world. Where Do We Start? Practicing intentional giving doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does require clarity and purpose. 1. Start with your local church. God designed the church to equip believers, reach communities, and advance the gospel. Supporting it isn’t just tradition—it’s participation in His ongoing work. 2. Care for the vulnerable. Proverbs 19:17 says, “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord.” Whether through local outreach, relief efforts, or helping a neighbor, these acts reflect God’s compassion in tangible ways. 3. Invest in the spread of the gospel. Romans 10:15 reminds us, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news.” Every gift that helps someone hear about Christ carries eternal significance. When we give this way, our finances begin to tell a story—about what we love, what we value, and whom we trust. Grace, Not Guilt Here’s what makes intentional giving so powerful: it flows from grace, not guilt. 2 Corinthians 9:7 tells us, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart… for God loves a cheerful giver.” We don’t give to earn God’s favor—we give because we’ve already received it. Jesus Himself modeled this. Though He was rich, He became poor so that we might share in His riches (2 Corinthians 8:9). That’s the foundation of all generosity: the gospel. When grace takes root, open hands follow. A Different Way to See Money Intentional giving asks a different set of questions: Where is God inviting me to participate?Who has He placed in my path?What opportunities has He prepared for me? You’ve been uniquely positioned—with your experiences, relationships, and resources—to make a difference in ways no one else can. And when generosity becomes intentional, it reshapes how you see money. It’s no longer just income or savings—it becomes a tool for Kingdom impact. Because giving doesn’t just change someone else’s life—it changes yours. It loosens your grip on money, deepens your trust in God, and aligns your heart with His purposes. Because when generosity becomes intentional, it becomes transformational. Take the Next Step If you want to grow in this mindset—seeing every dollar as an opportunity to participate in God’s work—I’d encourage you to go deeper. In Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Devotional to Faithful Stewardship, we explore how generosity fits into God’s bigger story and how your finances can reflect His grace and purpose. You can purchase your copy—or place a bulk order for your church or small group—at FaithFi.com/Shop. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I’m retiring soon and selling my home, with about $250,000 in proceeds. My advisor suggests a 10-year annuity, but I’m concerned about locking up the money. Is this a wise move?Do I have to pay federal taxes on interest earned from a high-yield savings account?I know I can still contribute to last year’s retirement account, but can I do a Roth conversion now and have it count for 2025?As a widow, can I still use my late husband’s capital gains exclusion when selling our home? And would buying another home or leaving it to my children affect the taxes? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a ...
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    25 m
  • Common Misconceptions about Faith-Based Investing with Brian Mumbert

    Common Misconceptions about Faith-Based Investing with Brian Mumbert
    Apr 6 2026
    Faith-based investing has been around for decades, yet many investors still wrestle with an important question: Does aligning your investments with your values mean sacrificing performance or diversification? As more people seek to steward their resources in ways that reflect their convictions, it’s worth taking a closer look at what faith-based investing really is—and what it isn’t. On today’s show, Brian Mumbert, President of Timothy Plan—a pioneer in faith-based mutual funds—joined us to help clear up some of the most common misconceptions and offered a clearer picture of how values-driven investing really works. What Is Faith-Based Investing? At its core, faith-based investing seeks to align financial decisions with biblical values. This often involves screening out companies whose practices conflict with those convictions while still pursuing wise, disciplined investment strategies. Despite its growing popularity, several misconceptions persist. Misconception #1: “Faith-Based Funds Always Cost More” One common assumption is that filtering companies based on values automatically leads to higher fees. In reality, faith-based funds are managed much like traditional mutual funds. They involve professional research, portfolio management, and strategic allocation. In many cases, expense ratios are comparable—especially with the availability of lower-cost options like ETFs. That said, there may be instances where costs are slightly higher. But as Brian Mumbert noted, many investors are willing to pay slightly more to ensure their investments reflect what they truly value. Misconception #2: “You Have to Sacrifice Performance” Another concern is that prioritizing values means settling for weaker returns. But values-based screening doesn’t replace sound investment analysis—it works alongside it. Professional managers still evaluate fundamentals, risks, and long-term opportunities. In fact, many faith-based funds have demonstrated competitive performance over time, and in some cases, have even outperformed their unscreened counterparts. As Mumbert explained, the goal is to combine wise stewardship with disciplined investing—not to choose between them. Misconception #3: “It Doesn’t Really Make an Impact” Some critics argue that faith-based investing lacks real-world impact since most stock transactions occur on the secondary market. While it’s true that buying and selling shares doesn’t directly fund companies in the same way as an initial public offering, investing still represents ownership—and ownership matters. Mumbert pointed out that shareholders have a voice. They can vote proxies, engage with companies, and choose not to profit from industries that conflict with their convictions. For many believers, that’s a meaningful form of stewardship. Misconception #4: “Screening Limits Diversification” A final concern is that excluding certain companies will significantly narrow investment options. In practice, even strict faith-based screens still leave a vast majority of the investable universe available—often around 90%. That means investors can still achieve broad diversification across sectors and asset classes while remaining aligned with their values. A Better Way to Think About Investing Faith-based investing isn’t about making a symbolic statement or checking a box. It’s about recognizing that every financial decision reflects what we value—and choosing to steward those decisions intentionally. It invites us to ask a deeper question: What does faithfulness look like in the way I invest what God has entrusted to me? You don’t have to choose between conviction and competence. Faith-based investing offers a way to pursue both—aligning your portfolio with your beliefs while still practicing wise, disciplined stewardship. Because in the end, investing isn’t just about returns—it’s about responsibility. Learn More If you’d like to explore faith-based investing options, Timothy Plan has been a trusted leader in this space for more than 30 years—offering mutual funds and ETFs designed to help investors align their portfolios with their biblical values. To learn more, visit TimothyPlan.com. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I’m confused about how to report an annuity on our taxes. We started it with $6,000 in 2011, and it’s now worth about $205,000. How do I determine the correct cost basis, especially with fees over time?We have $20,000 to invest and want something safe and fairly liquid. Should we use CDs or T-bills, and how do T-bills work through TreasuryDirect or a brokerage?My son’s business is struggling, and he’s relying on payday loans. How can he get out of this cycle, and who should he talk to for guidance or debt consolidation? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Timothy PlanFidelity | Charles SchwabChristian Credit CounselorsChristian Community ...
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    25 m
  • It Is Finished

    It Is Finished
    Apr 3 2026
    “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 8:9 Good Friday invites us into a sacred tension—one marked by sorrow, gratitude, and deep hope. It is the day we remember the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, when the Son of God bore the weight of our sin on the cross. And yet, for centuries, Christians have called this day good. Not because the events were easy or lighthearted—but because of what Christ accomplished through them. The Sorrow and the Wonder of the Cross For many believers, Good Friday carries a heaviness. We reflect on the suffering Jesus endured and the sobering reality that our sin made the cross necessary. Scripture reminds us that sin is not merely a mistake—it is a separation from God, the very source of life and love. And yet, alongside that sorrow is overwhelming gratitude. We remember the love of the Father who gave His Son, and the love of the Son who willingly laid down His life. Jesus stood in our place, absorbing the penalty we deserved so that we could be reconciled to God. This is the wonder of the cross: justice satisfied and mercy extended. A Story That Doesn’t End in Darkness Even on Good Friday, there is anticipation. We know what Sunday brings. The resurrection is coming—the victory over sin and death, and the promise of eternal life for all who trust in Christ. Good Friday is not the end of the story. It is the turning point. What looked like defeat became the doorway to redemption. That’s why we call it good. Here at Faith and Finance, we often talk about stewardship, generosity, and wise financial decisions. But Scripture frequently uses financial language to help us understand spiritual realities. Terms like debt, ransom, redemption, and inheritance appear throughout the Bible—not by accident, but because they reveal the depth of what Christ has done for us. Romans 6:23 — “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”Mark 10:45 — “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”1 Corinthians 6:20 — “You were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” These aren’t just metaphors—they are windows into the gospel. Our sin created a debt we could never repay. Left to ourselves, we had no way to restore what was broken. But Jesus stepped in. “It Is Finished” As Jesus breathed His last, He declared, “It is finished” (John 19:30). The Greek word is tetelestai—a word rich with meaning. It was used by servants to report that a task was completed. It appeared on legal documents to indicate that a requirement had been fulfilled. Most strikingly, it has been found on ancient receipts to signify that a debt had been paid in full. No balance remaining. Nothing left owed. So when Jesus spoke those words from the cross, He wasn’t simply marking the end of His life—He was announcing the completion of His mission. The price of our redemption had been paid. The debt of sin was canceled. The separation between God and humanity was bridged—not by our effort, but by His sacrifice. That changes everything. Because of Christ, we are no longer living in a state of spiritual deficit. We live in the overflow of grace. Jesus didn’t make a partial payment—He paid it in full. There is nothing left for us to earn. No amount of striving can add to what He has already accomplished. Instead, we are invited to receive this gift by faith and walk in the freedom it brings. We are free from guilt. Free from striving. Free to live for the One who gave everything for us. A New Way to Live On this Good Friday, we’re invited to hear those final words again—tetelestai—and let them settle deep into our hearts. It is finished. And because it is finished, our obedience is no longer a transaction to earn God’s favor. It becomes a joyful response to His grace. We follow Christ not to gain life, but because in Him, we’ve already found it. That’s the beauty of the cross. And that’s why Good Friday is truly good. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My wife and I bought a small home in 2024 and now have two young kids, with hopes for more. Should we consider moving or refinancing for more space? Also, should I keep $16,000 in savings or invest some of it?My son and daughter-in-law adopted four Ukrainian teens who may attend college. Where can we find scholarships for them, especially lesser-known ones?I’m 79, still working as a bi-vocational pastor, and owe about $17,000 on my home. Would a reverse mortgage make sense for me? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Fastweb | Peterson’s | Scholarships.comOur Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob WestWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on ...
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    25 m
  • Clearing Up Reverse Mortgage Myths with Harlan Accola

    Clearing Up Reverse Mortgage Myths with Harlan Accola
    Apr 2 2026
    Reverse mortgages often trigger strong reactions—especially among believers who want to honor God with their finances. But are those reactions grounded in biblical wisdom…or outdated information? When it comes to debt and home equity, emotions can run high. Yet Scripture calls us to something deeper than instinct—it calls us to understanding. As Proverbs 19:20 reminds us, “Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.” To help bring clarity to this often misunderstood topic, Harlan Accola—who leads the reverse mortgage team at Movement Mortgage—joins the show today to separate fact from fiction. Why Reverse Mortgages Carry So Much Stigma For many people, the phrase reverse mortgage immediately raises red flags. And to be fair, some of that concern is rooted in history. As Harlan Accola explains, earlier versions of these loans—and in some cases, unethical practices—damaged trust. Like many industries, there were bad actors who misused the product and took advantage of seniors. But today’s reverse mortgage is very different. Modern reverse mortgages are federally regulated through the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and include strong consumer protections designed specifically for older homeowners. Still, misinformation persists—often passed along by well-meaning friends, family members, or even within church communities. That’s why biblical wisdom matters here. We’re called not just to react, but to understand. Not All Debt Is the Same One of the biggest misconceptions about reverse mortgages is that they’re simply another form of dangerous debt. But as Harlan points out, not all debt functions the same way. Traditional consumer debt—like credit cards or auto loans—requires monthly payments. Miss those payments, and the consequences can quickly escalate, creating stress and financial strain. A reverse mortgage, however, works very differently: There are no required monthly principal or interest paymentsThe homeowner must continue paying property taxes and insuranceThe loan is non-recourse, meaning the borrower will never owe more than the value of the home That final point is key. If the home’s value declines, the borrower (or their heirs) is not personally responsible for the difference. As Harlan emphasizes, understanding the mechanics of a financial product is essential before comparing it to others—or dismissing it altogether. A Practical Scenario: When Cash Flow Becomes a Struggle Harlan highlights a situation that’s becoming increasingly common. Many homeowners in their 60s and 70s have built substantial equity—but still carry monthly mortgage payments. In fact, a significant number of Americans over 62—and even over 75—are still making those payments. When unexpected expenses arise—a roof repair, a broken water heater—many turn to high-interest credit cards to cover the gap. This is where a reverse mortgage may offer relief. By eliminating a monthly mortgage payment, it can: Improve monthly cash flowReduce reliance on high-interest debtLower financial stress Harlan also notes that this added margin can even open the door to greater generosity—freeing individuals to steward their resources more intentionally. A Stewardship Lens: Discernment Over Reaction For Christians, financial decisions are never just about numbers—they’re about faithfulness. That means we shouldn’t reject or embrace any financial tool without first understanding it. Wisdom requires discernment, not assumptions. Reverse mortgages aren’t right for everyone. But as Harlan Accola reminds us, decisions should be based on accurate information—not outdated fears. As Proverbs 19:20 encourages us, listening, learning, and seeking wise counsel is part of faithful stewardship. Learn More If you’d like to better understand reverse mortgages or explore whether one might fit your situation, you can learn more at FaithFi.com/Movement. Taking time to understand your options isn’t just practical—it’s a step toward stewarding God’s resources with wisdom and care. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I’m building a home on land I already own and have about $150,000 saved—roughly half the cost. Should I use a construction loan or a traditional mortgage, and how does that process work?I’m 53 and hope to retire in about four years. I’m in good financial shape, but don’t have a financial advisor or a will. How do I find a trusted advisor, and what should I look for in how they’re paid and whether they’re a fiduciary?Is it wise to use about 25% of my retirement savings to remodel my home if it could increase its value? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Movement MortgageOur Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob WestWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on ...
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    25 m
  • Do Your Finances Need Scam-Proofing?

    Do Your Finances Need Scam-Proofing?
    Apr 1 2026
    “The simple believe everything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.” — Proverbs 14:15 In a world where scams are increasingly sophisticated, Scripture reminds us that precaution is not paranoia—it’s stewardship. Protecting the resources God has entrusted to us isn’t just practical; it’s spiritual. Today’s threats may come through phone calls, emails, text messages, or even impersonations of people we trust. But as followers of Christ, we are not called to live in fear—we are called to walk in wisdom. So what does wise, faithful stewardship look like in a digital age? 1. Slow Down and Verify Scammers thrive on urgency. They want you to act before you think. If someone pressures you—claiming to be your bank, a government agency, or even a loved one—pause. Hang up. Verify the source using official contact information. Remember: Pressure is a red flag. Wisdom takes a breath. 2. Be Wise About How You Send Money One of the clearest warning signs of fraud is how payment is requested. Never send money via wire transfer, gift cards, or peer-to-peer apps (like Zelle or Venmo) to someone you don’t personally know.Legitimate organizations will not demand payment this way. If something feels off, trust that instinct and walk away. 3. Use Tools That Protect You Not all payment methods are created equal. Use credit cards when shopping online—they typically offer stronger fraud protection than debit cards.Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on financial accounts—it’s like adding a deadbolt to your digital front door.Use an authenticator app when possible instead of text-based codes. These simple steps dramatically reduce your vulnerability. 4. Strengthen Your Passwords Weak or reused passwords are one of the easiest entry points for thieves. Use a password manager like Bitwarden or NordPass to create and store strong, unique passwords.Avoid reusing the same password across multiple accounts. Think of your passwords as keys—each door should have its own. 5. Monitor and Lock Down Your Accounts Staying alert can help you catch problems early. Set up bank alerts for large transactions or unusual activity.Freeze your credit with all three major bureaus—it’s free and highly effective against identity theft. This is like installing an alarm system for your finances. 6. Be Cautious Online and in Public Convenience can sometimes come at a cost. Avoid accessing financial accounts on public Wi-Fi unless you’re using a VPN.Only log into accounts on your personal devices.Limit what you share on social media—details like birthdays, family names, or locations can be used against you. Not everything needs to be public. 7. Protect Your Physical Information Digital security matters—but so does what’s on paper. Shred documents containing sensitive information like bank statements, tax forms, or medical records.Be cautious of phishing emails or messages—even if they appear to come from someone you know. When in doubt, verify before you click. 8. Make It a Family Conversation Scammers often target the most vulnerable—especially older adults and teenagers. Take time to: Talk with your family about common scamsShare what you’re learningStay informed together Stewardship is not just personal—it’s communal. 9. Use Caution After Data Breaches If a company offers identity theft protection after a breach: Take advantage of it—but verify firstContact the company directly through their official website or number Don’t trust links or instructions in unsolicited messages. Faithful Stewardship Without Fear There’s no question that in today’s world, financial faithfulness includes digital awareness. Guarding your data, protecting your family, and staying alert to fraud are essential parts of stewardship. But this isn’t about fear—it’s about faith expressed through wisdom. With a few intentional steps, you can protect what God has entrusted to you and live with peace—not panic. If you’re looking for a simple way to manage your money and grow in faithful stewardship, the FaithFi app can help. It’s designed to help you handle God’s resources with clarity and purpose. You can download it today at FaithFi.com/App. On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I’ve been helping a friend financially while he’s unemployed, but it’s starting to strain me. He has no credit and doesn’t know where to start. How can he build a financial foundation—and how can I help without hurting myself?I need to update my will and mainly want to pass my home to my children. I’ve heard a trust might be better. Can I set that up without an attorney?I’m working to rebuild my credit after medical debt, but I want to avoid taking on new debt. What are my options—and would borrowing against my paid-off home help or hurt?I was told I could pay off my $125,000 mortgage faster by moving it to a HELOC and running my income through it. Is that strategy legitimate? Resources ...
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