Preparing for Life’s Transitions with Sharon Epps

In C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Aslan tells Lucy, “Things never happen the same way twice.” It’s a good reminder that life brings changes. They’re unavoidable, but how we choose to meet them is up to us. Sharon Epps joins us today with sage advice about preparing for life’s transitions.Sharon Epps is the President of Kingdom Advisors, FaithFi’s parent organization. Kingdom Advisors serves the broad Christian financial industry by educating and equipping professionals to integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.Lessons from NarniaC.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia holds a surprising amount of wisdom for real life. In one poignant scene, Aslan comforts Lucy Pevensie about the changes she and her siblings are facing. “Things never happen the same way twice,” Aslan tells her. Change is constant, and each new season requires fresh wisdom. Even when we’re no longer in school, the rhythms of August to May still shape our lives and planning.When Life Goes Into Transition, Money Goes Into MotionFinancial author Mitch Anthony says it best: “Money goes into motion when life goes into transition.” Whether you’re sending a child off to college, caring for aging parents, or planning a move, each change brings financial decisions with it. Here are five strategies to help us steward these moments well:1. Pray for WisdomEvery new season needs fresh wisdom. You can learn the hard way through pain or the better way through prayer. Proverbs 3:6 reminds us: “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”2. Seek Godly CounselLearn from those who’ve been there. If you’re sending your first child to college, ask parents of graduates what they’d do differently. Their experience can save you time, money, and stress.3. Plan the Financial Details of the TransitionWith college, for example, have you clarified who will cover living expenses? Will your child work part-time? Will you offer a monthly stipend? Define expectations now to avoid confusion later.4. Prepare for the UnexpectedThings rarely go according to plan. What if your child runs out of money mid-semester? Do you have an emergency fund? Thinking through these “what ifs” now builds resilience.5. Communicate Ahead of TimeGood communication brings clarity and accountability. Whether you’re dealing with a child, a spouse, or a realtor, the earlier you clarify financial expectations, the smoother the transition will be.These five practices are simple but powerful. They’ll help you stay grounded through every kind of life change. And remember, God doesn’t just care about what we go through—He cares about how we go through it. Let’s walk into our next season with prayerful wisdom, godly counsel, and faithful stewardship.On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I’m new to investing and want to understand the basics of the stock market, as well as how to avoid scams.I’m considering buying precious metals to pass on to my children and grandchildren. What’s the best way for them to sell or redeem them in the future?If I give to animal charities, does that count as tithing? Or is tithing meant specifically to support ministries focused on people?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.