Most Christians want to be generous But wanting to give and actually following through are two different things With so many worthy causes competing needs and financial decisions to consider even the best intentions can become overwhelming Without a plan our giving can become reactive rather than purposeful driven more by the requests we receive than by a thoughtful understanding of how God has entrusted us to steward His resources So how can we move from good intentions to meaningful action Kendra VanderMeulen CEO of the National Christian Foundation NCF joined the show today to discuss how developing a thoughtful [... more]

In this episode of Finishing Well Certified Financial Planner Hans Scheil and host Robby Dilmore unpack one of the most misunderstood areas of retirement planning Social Security spousal benefits While many people focus only on maximizing their own benefit Hans explains why the smartest strategy often comes from looking at Social Security as a household decision rather than an individual one Through practical real-life examples you'll discover how spouses surviving spouses and even divorced individuals may qualify for benefits they never realized were available Hans illustrates how proper timing and claiming strategies can significantly increase lifetime income helping couples create [... more]

Artificial intelligence can help you build a budget explain an investment or compare financial options in seconds But how much should you trust it with your money AI is quickly becoming part of everyday life including the way we manage our finances And like any tool it can be used wisely or unwisely For Christians the better question isn't simply Should I use AI but How can I use this tool wisely and faithfully A Helpful Tool But Not a Source of WisdomWhen new technology arrives we can be tempted toward one of two extremes We either embrace it without [... more]

Financial decisions are not just about numbers, but about values and priorities. Certified Kingdom Advisors offer biblical guidance to help individuals plan for the future, make informed investment decisions, and achieve financial independence while staying true to their faith. [... more]

Certified Financial Planner Hans Scheil discusses the importance of integrating financial planning elements, including tax planning, to preserve families in retirement. He explains how taxes fit into the overall financial plan and how to manage taxes on Social Security, Medicare, and long-term care. Hans also touches on the importance of estate planning and how to avoid the widow tax. [... more]

Dr. Tony Evans discusses the concept of finding meaning in life and the importance of maximizing the time we have. He draws from the book of Ecclesiastes, highlighting the idea that we should focus on enjoying life while we can, rather than trying to find ultimate fulfillment. Dr. Evans emphasizes the need for balance between work and rest, and encourages listeners to prioritize their relationships and experiences over material possessions. [... more]

Understanding the three-legged stool of retirement income, Americans rely on Social Security, employer-sponsored plans, and personal savings, with individual retirement accounts playing a crucial role. Mark Biller breaks down the differences between traditional and Roth IRAs, discussing tax implications, contribution limits, and eligibility. He also shares practical advice on setting up business finances, including separating personal and business accounts, choosing a simple accounting system, and treating taxes as a bill to be paid. [... more]

Faith in Finance explores the intersection of faith and finances, offering biblical wisdom for managing God's resources. Host Rob West discusses the importance of stewardship, the role of a Christian financial advisor, and practical tips for navigating financial challenges with a heart anchored in peace and joy. [... more]

Everyone seems to be looking for the next get rich quick scheme or fast return on investment But such financial endeavors can only benefit us in the short term Dr Robert Jeffress encourages us to invest in eternity by maximizing the time talents resources and opportunities God has given us To support Pathway to Victory go to ptv org donate [... more]

Learning to manage stress and anger involves admitting mistakes, laughing more often, taking care of oneself, and getting a high view of God. By understanding how our minds work and the importance of perspective, we can minimize stress and maximize God's presence in our lives. [... more]

Investing and gambling may seem similar, but they have distinct differences in their nature and purpose. Investing involves taking calculated risks to support growth, contribute to the economy, and provide for the future, whereas gambling is a zero-sum game that exploits rather than builds. Christians must approach investing with a biblical mindset, considering the impact on the world around us and seeking to steward God's provision wisely. [... more]

Maximizing Social Security benefits requires careful planning and consideration of long-term consequences. Certified financial planner Hans Scheil discusses strategies for couples and individuals to optimize their Social Security checks, including delaying benefits and using retirement savings to supplement income. By understanding the impact of their decisions on their financial future, individuals can make informed choices to secure their retirement and achieve financial peace of mind. [... more]

Navigating back to school expenses and tax holidays, listeners seek advice on financial decisions, biblical worldview, tax relief, and real estate options, including renting versus buying and viatical settlements. [... more]

Choosing productivity over laziness is a key to a fulfilling life, as Dr. Robert Jeffress explains in his message. He discusses the characteristics of a sluggard, including refusing to begin a job, not completing work, ignoring opportunities, and craving riches. Dr. Jeffress also shares five practical ways to develop an attitude of productivity, including clearly defining one's purpose, spending time effectively, managing financial resources, disciplining oneself, and making sure to define productivity correctly. [... more]

Rob West discusses the qualified charitable distribution, a tax benefit for individuals over 70 and a half with an IRA, allowing them to transfer funds directly to charity without reporting the income, and the potential to satisfy required minimum distributions. He also answers listener questions on retirement planning, financial decisions, and stewardship, providing biblical wisdom and guidance on managing finances. [... more]

Transforming your relationship with money from fear and dread to trust and joy is possible when you prioritize God above all else and integrate your faith and financial decisions for His glory. [... more]

Couples who disagree on handling their finances can avoid conflicts in marriage by understanding each other's temperament and learning to manage money together as a team. Research shows that men and women tend to have different spending priorities, emotional perspectives, and financial topics of interest, which can lead to conflict. By discovering their individual temperaments and understanding how God has wired them up, couples can foster empathy and grace, and learn to maximize each other's natural money management strengths while navigating around their weaknesses. [... more]

Rob West discusses three ways to avoid losing money, including not contributing enough to a 401k, not taking full advantage of a flexible spending account, and lending too much to Uncle Sam through excessive tax withholding. He also answers listener questions about selling gold coins, capital gains tax, and rolling over a 401k to an IRA or current employer's 401k plan. [... more]

Understanding the benefits of waiting until full retirement age to file for Social Security, and how it can impact taxation and overall retirement income. A certified financial planner shares a case study of a client who was able to maximize her Social Security benefits and create a more secure retirement. [... more]

Pastor Paul Shepherd encourages listeners to get out of the negative labeling business and focus on God's perspective, emphasizing the importance of redemptive thinking and maximizing what you have, just like Jesus taught. [... more]