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With mortgage rates fluctuating, now might not seem like the perfect time to buy a home, but it’s an ideal time to prepare, especially for first-time homebuyers. Movement Mortgage recently shared helpful tips on FaithFi.com for those looking to enter the housing market. Here’s a breakdown of these critical steps to set you up for a successful and financially wise home purchase.Step 1: Determine Your Budget—And Keep It ConservativeFirst things first, know what you can afford. It’s wise to set a sale price and monthly payment that’s less than the maximum a lender or loan calculator may suggest. Keeping a buffer in your budget allows for unexpected costs and helps you avoid financial strain. As Proverbs 21:20 says, “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.”Step 2: Set a Savings Goal for Your Down PaymentWhile a 20% down payment isn’t always required, it has some major benefits:Reduces the loan amountEliminates private mortgage insurance (PMI)It gives you enough equity

There’s a great investing option out there, and chances are, it’s not in your portfolio.That option is Exchange-Traded Funds or ETFs, and they’re worth considering. Brian Mumbert joins us today to discuss the advantages of ETFs.Brian Mumbert is Vice President and Regional Sales Executive at Timothy Plan, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.What is an ETF?An Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) is an investment option similar to a mutual fund but with distinct features. ETFs typically follow an index, such as the S&P 500 or NASDAQ, and are not actively managed. This means that an ETF holds a broad mix of investments, providing diversification that tracks the chosen index. One key advantage is that ETFs, like stocks, can be traded throughout the day, allowing investors to buy or sell at the current market price.How Do ETFs Differ from Mutual Funds?Unlike mutual funds, where the exact purchase price isn’t known until the end of the trading day, ETFs offer real-time pricing. This flexibility allows investors to trade

Did you hear about the guy who paid his taxes to the IRS with a smile? It didn’t work out, though—it turns out they prefer money.Well, paying taxes is certainly no laughing matter, and we don’t want to miss something that could end up costing us money. Fortunately, Kevin Cross is here today with a list of year-end tax tips you don’t want to miss.Kevin Cross is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) who has headed CPA firms in Florida and now Georgia. He has studied the tax code extensively and specializes in representing taxpayers before the IRS. 2024 Year-End Tax StrategiesAs the end of 2024 draws near, these are some critical financial moves that can help you maximize your tax savings: 1. Review Withholding and Estimated PaymentsThe first step in year-end tax prep is to check how much you’ve paid in taxes this year. Avoid underpaying (which leads to penalties) or overpaying (which gives the government an interest-free loan on your money). For those behind on withholding, consider adjusting your remaining paych

They say that winners never quit and quitters never win, but that’s not really true, is it? What if you’re trying to quit a bad habit?It’s not only okay to quit a bad habit; it’s something we should always strive to do—especially with investing. Mark Biller joins us today with a list of bad habits you should quit if you find yourself doing them.Mark Biller is Executive Editor and Senior Portfolio Manager at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. Go Ahead, Be a QuitterIn a recent article titled “Go Ahead, Be a Quitter” at SoundMindInvesting.com, six bad investing habits are discussed as they explain why quitting them can lead to better financial outcomes.1. Quit Standing on the SidelinesOne of the worst habits in investing is not starting at all. Time is crucial for building wealth, thanks to the power of compound interest—often referred to as the “8th wonder of the world.” Investing in well-managed, growing businesses, primarily through stocks, has historically provided returns that outp

You’ve heard of the Great Wealth Transfer taking place as Baby Boomers pass away, but did you know that women will inherit the majority of those assets?It’s true. The Great Wealth Transfer is really horizontal, with widows inheriting most private wealth before it’s passed on to the next generation. Sharon Epps joins us today to talk about how women should prepare.Sharon Epps is the president of Kingdom Advisors, our parent organization. Kingdom Advisors is a group dedicated to training financial professionals to guide and advise you according to biblical principles.Women as the Primary InheritorsOne surprising fact is that women will inherit the majority of this wealth. Since women typically outlive men by about six to seven years, nearly 70% will experience widowhood and manage their spouse’s share of assets. In addition to inheriting from their husbands, many women will also receive an inheritance from their parents, and, increasingly, they are generating their own income through employment. This convergenc

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” - Proverbs 15:1That verse reminds us to keep a cool head when we experience conflict or crisis in a relationship—and maybe even more…when that crisis involves the marriage relationship. Howard Dayton joins us today to talk about surviving a marriage crisis.Howard Dayton is the founder of Compass Financial Ministry and the former host of this program. He is also the author of several books on Christian Finance and Stewardship, including Money and Marriage God's Way.Recognizing the Warning Signs of a Marital CrisisMarriage challenges can emerge when stress or unresolved conflicts grow too intense for a couple to manage. Financial struggles, in particular, often go beyond “dollars and cents” and can breed emotions like anger, resentment, and frustration. This strain can lead to poor communication or even emotional withdrawal. A financial crisis in marriage becomes incredibly complex when both partners contribute to it, eroding trust in the relati

Bonds are considered safe investments but also a bit boring. Is that true, though?In the investing world, all the drama, for good or ill, is in the stock market. It’s up, it’s down, you get the picture. However, bonds also have an interesting story, and Benjamin Bailey is here to tell us about it.Benjamin Bailey is Vice President of Investments and Senior Fixed Income Manager at Praxis Mutual Funds, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.Introduction to Bonds and StocksBonds play a unique role in building a well-rounded investment portfolio compared to stocks. Stocks represent ownership in a company—owning a small piece of a business like Verizon or Lowe's. Investors typically buy stocks hoping for price appreciation, aiming to sell them for more than they paid. Bonds, however, function differently. When a large company needs significant funding, they may issue bonds to raise capital, allowing investors to “lend” the company money. In return, bondholders receive interest payments (often bi-annually) and get th

Christmas is six weeks away, and some folks may already be feeling the stress.The holidays should be a time of spiritual reflection and reconnection with family and friends…but too often, we lose sight of that in the quest for perfection. Crystal Paine is here to help us stay focused on the actual “reason for the season.”Crystal Paine is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com and the author of The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most.1. Start with a Christmas BudgetOne of the best ways to enjoy a stress-free holiday is by setting up a Christmas budget. A budget is like a set of guardrails—it keeps you on track, preventing you from overspending or going into debt. Here’s a simple way to create one:Determine Your Total Spending Limit: Decide how much you can comfortably spend this season.List Your Recipients: Write down everyone you’re buying for and assign a spending amount for each.Track Your Spending: Use a spreadsheet or the FaithFi app to keep a running total o

If you’ve ever thought you view the world differently than others—that has probably never been more true.A new study has revealed a sharp drop in the number of Americans with a biblical worldview. Chad Clark joins us today with his insights.Chad Clark is the Executive Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance and the co-author of Look at the Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety. The State of the Biblical WorldviewRecent findings from the 2023 American Worldview Inventory conducted by Arizona Christian University. This survey, led by Dr. George Barna, polled over 2,000 Americans on topics like marriage, money, and morals. The results were surprising: only 4% of American adults hold a biblical worldview, a percentage that has been on a steady decline. Particularly concerning, just 1% of those under 30 identified with a biblical worldview.The survey further revealed that even among self-identified Christians, only 6% hold a biblical worldview. This means that a significant majority—94%—are

The Bible is full of wisdom on managing money and possessions, yet there are common beliefs about wealth that are simply unbiblical. These misconceptions can lead people away from God’s truth about finances, creating confusion and stress. Let’s examine five of these myths and explore what the Bible actually teaches.1. The “I Win, You Lose” MentalityOne widespread belief is that money is a zero-sum game: for someone to have more, someone else must have less. This scarcity mindset fuels anxiety and fear, making people view wealth as something limited.Scripture, however, reveals God’s generosity and ability to provide abundantly. In Psalm 50:10, God reminds us that He “owns the cattle on a thousand hills.” Jesus also demonstrated abundance in Matthew 14:13-21 when He fed five thousand with just five loaves and two fish, leaving behind twelve baskets of leftovers. God is not restricted by human limitations; His resources are limitless, allowing us to live with trust rather than fear.2. Building Wealth Is SelfishS

Having an emergency fund is great, but how can you ensure it’s there when you really need it? It’s easy to set aside money for a rainy day, but what happens when we start dipping into that fund for things that aren’t actually emergencies?The Bible has much to say about wisdom and preparation, and Proverbs 21:20 offers a powerful reminder: “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours them.”This verse highlights the importance of saving rather than consuming everything we earn, urging us to be prepared for the inevitable challenges that come our way. An emergency fund is one of the most effective financial tools for navigating these moments. It provides a safeguard against unexpected expenses and helps you avoid unnecessary debt.Financial emergencies are almost a certainty in life. They can range from minor inconveniences, like a flat tire, to major setbacks, like a costly medical bill. Establishing an emergency fund reduces stress and provides a financial defense. While bu

In 1897, hymn writer Johnson Oatman Junior penned the timeless words, “Count your blessings, name them one by one,” a refrain that has encouraged generations. It reminds us of the profound role gratitude plays in the Christian life. As Thanksgiving approaches, this theme of gratitude takes on even greater significance. Let’s look closer at Oatman’s hymn and the enduring truths it holds for us.The Importance of GratitudeThankfulness isn’t just a holiday sentiment. It’s foundational to a life of faith. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, we’re reminded to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Gratitude reorients our focus, reminding us of God’s faithfulness, especially in challenging times. As Oatman writes in the first verse: “When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed… Count your many blessings, name them one by one… And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.”By acknowledging God’s goodness, we find renewed strength even in hardship.Fear and doubt can feel overwhe

Psalm 82:3 says, “Give justice to the poor and the orphan, uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute.”This powerful verse reminds us of our responsibility to care for those in need. Today, we turn our attention to a ministry doing just that—India Partners, which is providing hope and rescue to the oppressed in India.David Harms has devoted nearly a decade of ministry to the work of India Partners, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. With over 35 years of experience in rescuing victims of human trafficking, India Partners continues to make a profound impact on the lives of the most vulnerable.The Horrific Reality in IndiaIndia is a nation of contrasts—technologically advanced in many respects, yet home to nearly 300 million people living in extreme poverty. Among the most vulnerable are young girls, some as young as eight, who are trafficked into red-light districts and subjected to unimaginable horrors. These girls endure horrific conditions, facing abuse daily in slums filled with filth and ope

Marriage is a living relationship that requires constant care and attention. Dr. Gary Chapman, renowned author of The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts, highlights this in his resource, A Couple’s Guide to a Growing Marriage. This Bible study helps couples invest in their marriage with a structured, intentional approach, ensuring their relationship grows stronger.Working on your marriage benefits not just the couple but also their children and the broader community. Strong marriages create strong families, which have a positive impact on society. For Christian couples, it’s essential to follow biblical principles for marriage, as the Bible has much to say about how to nurture this sacred relationship.What’s In The Study?This 12-week Bible study includes:Weekly Activities and Bible Study: Each session starts with an opening activity and a Bible study focused on topics related to marriage and our relationship with God.Practical Exercises: Couples engage in learning exercises that apply biblical te

“Test everything; hold fast what is good.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:21In that verse, the Apostle Paul teaches that we should practice discernment in all things. We would include financial advice.One of the most common questions we receive is, "How can I choose a financial advisor who I can trust and who fits my financial situation?" Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to ensure you find someone reliable, especially by starting with a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA).At FaithFi, we recommend beginning your search with Kingdom Advisors. With over 1,600 CKAs, these professionals are skilled in various financial disciplines and share your Christian values. You can easily connect with one by visiting our website and clicking "Find a Professional."When selecting a financial advisor, we always recommend interviewing two or three candidates to find the best fit. Below are key questions to help guide your conversations.1. Experience and QualificationsHow long have you been in practice?What professional certi

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”- Proverbs 22:6God’s Word tells us that children should be taught early how to live wisely and righteously, including how to handle money. Howard Dayton is here to explain why it’s especially important to teach kids about the dangers of debt.Howard Dayton is the founder of Compass Financial Ministry and the former host of this program. He is also the author of a number of books on the topic of Christian Finance and Stewardship.  The Little-Big Principle: Starting SmallThe Little-Big principle is based on Luke 16:10: “He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much.” This principle encourages parents to start small when teaching children about money. The idea is to give kids small amounts to manage, like nickels and dimes, and then gradually increase the amount as they prove responsible. Eventually, they’ll be prepared to manage larger amounts of money.Parents should aim to steadily increase their chil

The Fed is scheduled to meet next week. Will it lower interest rates again? With one rate cut already on the books and perhaps two more coming before the end of the year…folks are wondering what effect all this will have on mortgages and home sales. Dale Vermillion joins us today to talk about it.Dale Vermillion is the author of Navigating the Mortgage Maze: The Simple Truth About Financing Your Home. This book covers everything you need to know about securing a mortgage—all from a biblical perspective.Current Mortgage Rate TrendsWith recent shifts in the economy, many are wondering about mortgage rates and how decisions from the Federal Reserve impact them. While the Fed recently lowered interest rates by half a percent, the market already anticipated this move. Mortgage rates dropped nearly a full percent before the Fed’s decision, but they’ve since started to climb back up. Currently, the national average for mortgage rates sits between 6.30% and 6.40%, and experts predict that they will remain in the low

Why do you suppose Jesus had so much to say about money and possessions?Our Lord and Savior knew that how we handle money can reveal our spiritual priorities. Every financial decision has a spiritual component, which can even be true of our investing. Bob Doll joins us today to answer, “Why should we strive for faith-based money management?”Bob Doll is the CEO and CIO of Crossmark Global Investments. He regularly contributes to Faith and Finance and other media outlets, such as Bloomberg TV, Fox Business, and CNBC. The Mission of Crossmark Global InvestmentsCrossmark Global Investments is one of the few faith-based money management companies dedicated to helping people align their investments with their faith and values. They are faith-based money managers helping people align their investments with their faith or values while still achieving good investment performance. The goal is not just financial gain but to ensure investments reflect biblical principles. Crossmark offers both screened and unscreened pro

If you’re self-employed, a contractor, or a small business owner, you’re probably familiar with the ups and downs of variable income. In some months, your earnings may exceed your expectations, while in others, they may fall short. This makes budgeting a little more complex—but not impossible! Let’s walk through how to create a budget tailored to your fluctuating income.Start by Finding Your Average IncomeThe first step is to look at what you know. Review your income from the past six to 12 months and total it. Then, divide that total by the number of months to find your average monthly income. This figure will serve as the foundation for your budget, helping you set realistic expectations. You’ll make more than this average in some months, and in others, you'll make less. That’s okay—as long as you plan for it.Save Excess Income for Lean MonthsHere’s the critical piece: In the months you earn more than your average, save the excess. This savings will buffer those lean months when you don’t meet your income t

There’s a saying, “Any port in a storm.” Does that apply to your savings?The economic waters seem choppy these days, so where’s a safe harbor for your savings that still gives you a return? Aaron Caid helps you plot a course for your money today.Aaron Caid is the Chief Marketing Officer at Christian Community Credit Union, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. Understanding Savings OptionsIf you've ever wondered which one is right for you, here are the basics of each type of account so you can determine which best suits your needs. Savings Accounts: The BasicsSavings accounts are a safe, insured, and highly liquid option. Most people use them in tandem with checking accounts, making them ideal for new or low-dollar savers. One downside is that interest rates can be lower than other products, as they fluctuate with market conditions. However, CCCU offers a high-yield savings account that provides competitive returns and is a great option for those looking to grow their savings.Money Market Accounts: A Step-Up