A budget is a plan for managing what God has entrusted to you, not a burden or source of shame. It's a tool for faithfulness, helping you live with biblical wisdom and generosity, and revealing patterns in your spending. Best practices include starting with giving, knowing your true income, giving every dollar a job, planning for irregular expenses, building margin, and reviewing and adjusting your budget regularly. [... more]

Many families are struggling with credit card debt and financial pressure due to rising costs and stagnant wages. Credit counseling can help break the cycle of high interest payments and provide a structured debt management plan to pay off debt responsibly. Financial literacy is growing, and online resources are helping consumers learn responsible ways to pay off debt and understand the risks of debt settlement programs. A certified credit counselor can review your specific situation and help you create a plan to achieve financial freedom. [... more]

Rob West discusses six financial choices that can help individuals steward their resources wisely, including choosing to spend with a plan, choosing the right car for their budget, and preparing for the unexpected. He also answers listener questions on topics such as reverse mortgages, charitable donations from IRAs, and finding a certified kingdom advisor. [... more]

An emergency fund acts as a financial shock absorber, providing stability and breathing room during uncertain times. Wise financial planning involves considering factors such as income stability, job loss, and medical emergencies when determining the right amount to save. Understanding Social Security and disability insurance can help individuals plan for retirement and navigate complex financial situations. Charitable giving through qualified charitable distributions can also be a strategic way to reduce taxable income and give back to the community. [... more]

Families are struggling with rising healthcare expenses, but there are alternatives to traditional health insurance. Medical cost sharing programs like Christian Healthcare Ministries allow individuals to share medical costs with a community of believers, providing a more affordable option. Meanwhile, listeners ask questions about Social Security, retirement planning, and investing, highlighting the importance of financial stewardship and making informed decisions about one's money. [... more]

President Donald Trump's 2026 State of the Union address highlighted several key issues, including the economy, tariffs, and the impact of AI data centers on utility grids. He also discussed the housing shortage, immigration, and the need to prevent large investment firms from purchasing single-family homes. Additionally, the president called for legislation to bar states from granting commercial driver's licenses to illegal aliens and highlighted the case of Irina Zarutska, a Ukrainian refugee who was murdered on the Charlotte Light Rail. [... more]

A major winter storm is set to impact North Carolina, with a state of emergency declared and power outages expected due to ice accumulation. Meanwhile, the state's General Assembly is considering a federal school choice tax credit program, with neighboring Georgia already opting in. Additionally, vaccines are being promoted to strengthen the immune system against respiratory illnesses. [... more]

Faith-based investing continues to grow, with more individuals and institutions seeking to align their investments with their faith and values. Experts like Bob Dahl provide market predictions and investment strategies, emphasizing the importance of economic growth, managing inflation, and making informed decisions about retirement planning and stock market investments. [... more]

North Carolina's state auditor released a report revealing over 11% of the state workforce is vacant, with more than 14,000 positions unfilled, resulting in over $1 billion in lapsed salaries. The report also found that some state agencies intentionally keep positions vacant to generate lapsed salaries. Meanwhile, a North Carolina Supreme Court justice announced a breast cancer diagnosis but plans to remain in the 2026 judicial race. In other news, the state's Christmas tree industry had a strong season despite the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene in 2024. [... more]

Living with a variable income can be stressful, but God's Word offers timeless wisdom for managing finances. Building a plan around your lowest or average income, creating an income holding account, and distinguishing between fixed and flexible expenses can bring stability and peace. Remember, God is not unpredictable, and His provision is faithful. By integrating your faith and financial decisions, you can cultivate faithful stewardship and grow in generosity. [... more]

Generosity is about more than dollars; it's about discipleship, financial literacy, and passing on wisdom along with wealth. A giving fund can be a powerful tool for generosity, allowing individuals to give easily and strategically, and involving family members in the process. Modeling generosity can also leave a spiritual legacy for future generations, and planning ahead can help families navigate the challenges of succession planning and wealth transfer. [... more]

Many people want their investments to reflect their values and convictions, and they need guidance from financial advisors to align their finances with their faith. Research shows that 48% of investors have already connected their investments with their faith or are interested in doing so, but a gap exists between investor interest and advisor action. Financial advisors can help clients incorporate faith-based investing into their financial plans, and tools are available to screen portfolios and exclude companies that conflict with their values. [... more]

Understanding your personal cost of living is crucial for making informed financial decisions. It's not just about rent and groceries, but also includes less frequent expenses like insurance premiums and car repairs. Tracking your cost of living can give you clarity and help you live intentionally with a heart that seeks to honor God with every dollar. [... more]

A North Carolina court ruling has sparked a dispute over the governor's appointment authority, while tariffs have hit the agriculture industry hard, particularly in North Carolina, where John Deere has seen significant losses. Meanwhile, crime rates in Winston-Salem and other cities in North Carolina have raised concerns, and the USDA has announced projects to improve forest health and reduce wildfire risk. [... more]

A federal appeals court ruled that a majority of President Trump's tariffs are illegal, but allowed them to remain in place until October 14th. Meanwhile, a case between two parents and a private school in Charlotte, North Carolina, is set to be heard by the state Supreme Court, which could have implications for the state's school choice movement. In another development, State Treasurer Brad Breiner and Republican legislative leaders are opposing Governor Josh Stein's proposal to pause a court dispute involving state judicial and utilities commission appointments. [... more]

North Carolina's Department of Transportation launches a public comment period for its next infrastructure plan, amid growing concerns over congestion in major metropolitan areas. Meanwhile, the state's General Assembly faces scrutiny over gerrymandering, and a recent poll shows widespread concern among voters about foreign ownership of farmland, particularly from China. [... more]

North Carolina's General Assembly continues to work on disaster relief funding, with a $700 million package stalled due to Republican disagreements. Meanwhile, a bill aimed at curbing the diversity, equity, and inclusion agenda in public schools is moving forward, and a court ruling has restricted Governor Josh Stein's ability to appoint judges. The state is also working to resolve a lawsuit over missing voter ID numbers, with a plan to collect information from over 195,000 voters. [... more]

The North Carolina General Assembly continues to address the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, approving a $700 million recovery package for Western North Carolina. Meanwhile, a contentious shrimping ban is being debated, with opponents threatening lawmakers and a three-judge panel is set to hear arguments in a lawsuit challenging Republican-backed changes to state appointments. Additionally, a technology company, Wolfspeed, is filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to significant financial struggles and a downturn in the electric vehicle market. [... more]

Creating an emergency binder can bring peace of mind and direction in difficult moments, while also promoting financial stewardship and generosity. Guests discuss various financial topics, including inheritance tax, estate planning, and capital gains, highlighting the importance of seeking God's wisdom and guidance in managing one's resources. [... more]

Compass Financial Ministry's Making Ends Meet project addresses financial struggles by providing a simplified method for managing spending, the importance of an emergency fund, and building a network of people to rely on. The project combines biblical perspective with tactical step-by-step instructions to help individuals move from struggling to thriving. [... more]