Faith & Finance on American Family Radio

Before you borrow, it’s worth asking what the debt may cost beyond the interest rate. Debt can affect your budget, your marriage, your margin, and your ability to respond freely when God leads. That doesn’t mean borrowing is always wrong, but it does mean it should be approached carefully. On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Ron Blue help you think wisely about borrowing.

1 Corinthians 4:2 says, “Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” Faithful stewardship doesn’t happen by accident. In fact, the choices we make with money can either create pressure or help us manage those resources with wisdom and devotion to God. On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West looks at six financial choices that can help us steward well what God has entrusted to us.

Credit card rewards can look like easy money—especially when we hear about earning flights, hotel stays, and cash bonuses, just by opening new cards. On this episode of Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West cautions us about a growing strategy called, “credit card churning” that may carry more risk than reward. Learn what it is, where the dangers are, and how Christians can think wisely about rewards, debt, and stewardship. Then, it’s on to calls.

Do you know if your retirement plan is on track—or are you simply hoping it is? Whether retirement is years away or just around the corner, it’s wise to pause and take a closer look at your plan. On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West walks you through a retirement checkup—what numbers to know, what assumptions to test, and how to think biblically about the season ahead. Then, it’s on to calls.

Why wait to give when the impact could start today? It’s easy to assume generosity will grow over time—after we’ve earned more, saved more, or reached a certain level of financial security. But what if waiting causes us to miss something greater? On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Cody Hobelmann discuss the impact of giving now, rather than later. Then, it’s on to calls.

James 1:5 says, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you.” When we think about financial decisions, we often turn first to budgets, spreadsheets, or expert advice. And those tools can be helpful. But for followers of Christ, wisdom begins with prayer. On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Sharon Epps joins Rob West to talk about inviting God into our financial lives and seeking His guidance with trust and humility. Then it's on to calls.

When Christians respond with generosity, doors open for hope that lasts. You’ve heard about the devastating crisis in Lebanon and how families are displaced by war. On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and May-Lee Melki revisit that story because, while much has been done, the need remains great. They share what your generosity has already made possible—and the opportunity still before us. Then, it’s on to calls.

Joshua Becker states, “Minimalism isn’t about removing things you love. It’s about removing the things that distract you from the things you love.” Clutter not only competes for your space, but it also vies for your attention, affection, and generosity. On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Joshua Becker joins Rob West to discuss possessions and simplicity. Discover how owning less can help you love more and live more purposefully. Then, it’s on to calls.

With Father’s Day approaching, we’re asking a deeper question: What kind of legacy are we leaving as men, as dads, and as stewards of what God has entrusted to us? On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Jonathan Lewis from Fathers for Fathers joins Rob West to talk about fatherhood, faith, and the financial discipleship that shapes generations. Then, it’s on to listener calls.

When the paycheck stops, and retirement income begins, how should giving change? During our working years, giving often feels straightforward. But in retirement, income may come from Social Security, pensions, investments, or savings—and that can raise new questions about what to give from and how to think about it biblically. On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West is joined by Anthony Saffer to help us think wisely and faithfully about tithing in retirement. Then it’s on to calls.

When one listener’s burden became another’s calling, the body of Christ went to work. Every now and then, through this program, we get to see what happens when God’s people respond to very real struggles in extraordinary ways. On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rene in North Carolina joins Rob West to share how a simple phone call led to a powerful act of generosity. Then, it’s on to listener calls.

Many investors wonder whether the market is getting ahead of itself—especially in AI and tech. What if the better question isn’t whether we’re in a bubble, but how we should respond if we are? On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Mark Biller discuss what investors should do when markets look overheated. They also explain why trying to predict the exact peak usually backfires. Then, it’s on to listener calls.

In Genesis 11:4, the people of Babel said, “Let us make a name for ourselves.” That same temptation can surface in times of success, when achievement becomes a personal monument rather than a platform for God’s glory. On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Jim Wise discuss the spiritual risks of prosperity. They also explain how to keep the focus on God’s Kingdom, rather than our own name. Then, it’s on to calls.

Did you hear about the guy who tried to pay his taxes with a smile? Unfortunately, for him, the IRS still prefers cash. All jokes aside, failing to file your taxes for several years is no small matter . . . but it's not the end of the road, either. On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Kevin Cross share practical steps to help you get back on track. Then, it’s on to calls.

More Christians are asking whether their financial lives reflect their deepest convictions. This includes how to give, spend, invest, and even bank. On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Aaron Caid explain how everyday banking can reflect our values and even support Kingdom work. Then, it’s on to calls.

Psalm 90:12 states, “So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” In this Psalm, readers are reminded to live wisely and intentionally with the time God gives us. For families with kids or grandkids, summer provides a unique opportunity to do just that. On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Brian Holtz talk about making room for work, play, and rest in the summer months. Then, it’s on to calls.

We can spend a large amount of time chasing what we think will satisfy. Jesus, however, offers a radically different vision of abundance--one that can’t be measured by what we own. On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West explores what true abundance is and why it matters for every financial decision we make. Then, it’s on to calls.

As Christians, we are called to be generous, but what does that look like when someone asks for money on the street? Should we give? Is there a better way to help? On this Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Dr. David W. Jones explore the ethics of giving to homeless people. They also share how to show compassion without causing harm. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

Generosity isn’t something God wants from you—it’s something He wants for you. Many people approach generosity with hesitation, wondering if it will lead to pressure, obligation, or another financial ask. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Todd Harper explain that generosity is an invitation into joy, freedom, and deeper fellowship with God.

Could the equity in our home become a wise means for stewardship in the next season of life? For many, the words, “reverse mortgage” raise immediate concerns—sometimes because of outdated information, fear, or even guilt. But is it possible we’ve dismissed this tool too quickly? On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Harlan Accola joins Rob West to help separate myth from reality. Then, it’s on to listener calls.

Wealth is both a tool and a test. In Matthew 6:20, Jesus says to store up treasures in heaven, and that changes the way we think about money, possessions, and generosity. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Randy Alcorn explain why wealth can be dangerous when it owns us—but deeply life-giving when it’s surrendered to God. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

Our work is not just a way to make a living. It’s also a way to love our neighbor. Whether we’re leading a company, teaching a class, managing a home, or serving our community, God has entrusted us with influence. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Dr. Amy Sherman explain vocational stewardship and how our work can contribute to the flourishing of others. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

Some of the costliest financial mistakes are made in isolation. When big decisions come our way, pride and pressure can convince us we need to figure it all out ourselves. But God designed us to walk in community, and His wisdom often comes through trusted voices. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West explores why seeking wise counsel is a key part of faithful stewardship. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

What does it really mean to store up treasure in heaven? On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West explores eternal rewards. Discover how understanding God’s heavenly riches can reshape how we steward our time, money, and influence. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

Imagine if a quarter of our country suddenly had to flee—unsure what tomorrow might bring. That’s the kind of hardship many families in Lebanon face. As Lebanon encounters another humanitarian crisis, innocent families are caught in the middle. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Camille Melki of Heart for Lebanon joins Rob West with a boots-on-the-ground report and a powerful opportunity to respond. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

Randy Alcorn says, “Abundance isn’t God’s provision for me to live in luxury. It’s his provision for me to help others live.” When God entrusts us with more, the question isn’t simply, “How much can I keep?” but “How much can I use for His purposes?” On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Cody Hobelmann joins Rob West to share how this concept changed his own view of money. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

If you're drowning in debt and someone offers a lifeline, make sure it's not really an anchor. You have a few different choices for paying off debt, but they're definitely not all equal. Options include debt settlement, debt consolidation, and debt management. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Neile Simon explain the difference. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

We’re called to be good stewards of God’s resources, but being financially faithful amid the busyness of modern life isn’t easy. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, host Rob West will explain how you can stay faithful in managing your money amidst the busyness of life. Then he’ll answer questions on various financial topics.

Well, summertime is here—and while the kids are counting down the days until school’s out, parents and grandparents might be counting something else . . . the cost. But keeping kids entertained during the summer doesn’t have to break the bank. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West shares 10 fun, free things the family can do this summer—activities that build memories, rather than debt.

Over the past decade, U.S. stocks have been the center of the investing universe. But does wise diversification mean looking beyond our own borders? The U.S. market remains strong, but global markets, currencies, and economic leadership are always changing. So how should investors think about international opportunities without taking on unnecessary risk? On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Mark Biller joins Rob West to help us think more globally about investing. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

What are the biggest financial questions people ask? The money-related questions with which we grapple often reveal our fears, our hopes, and what we believe about God’s provision. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Sharon Epps share the questions financial advisors hear most often. Explore how a biblical perspective can help us address them wisely. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

Retirement isn’t the end of your purpose—it can be the beginning of a new expression of it. For years, retirement has been framed as the time to finally stop working, but what if that idea is incomplete? What if this season is for something more enduring than leisure alone? On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Mitch Anthony discuss how to live a purpose-driven retirement. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

An emergency fund can be the difference between a financial setback and a financial crisis—but only if it’s built the right way. Many people know they should have an emergency fund, but they’re unsure how much to save—or where that money should actually be kept. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West talks about developing an emergency fund, so the reserves are available when you need them most. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

How can you make great family memories without breaking the budget? That’s always the challenge and since summer is not that far, the kids are already thinking “vacation.” What can you do to be ready? On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Crystal Paine share some great tips for a budget-friendly family vacation. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

What do you do when the cost of staying healthy starts straining the family budget? For many households, rising healthcare expenses have become one of the biggest financial pressures they face. But even when traditional coverage feels out of reach, you have options. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Lauren Gajdek discuss medical cost sharing, how it works, and why more families are taking a closer look. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

A growing number of Christians are asking not just how to invest, but whether their investments reflect what they believe. For many, investing has been treated as a purely financial activity. But can it also be deeply connected to our calling? On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Luke Bolton discuss faith-based investing. Explore why it may be more about theology than strategy. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

What if investing could be about more than performance—what if it could also be about purpose? More believers are asking whether their portfolios reflect their convictions, and new tools are making that easier than ever. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Mike Schnackenberg talk about ETFs, stewardship, and how to invest in ways that honor God and serve the common good. Then Rob will answer questions on various financial topics.

Unexpected wealth can feel like a blessing—but without wisdom, it can quickly become a burden. A sudden financial gain—a large inheritance, a life insurance payout, even the sale of a business—can change your circumstances overnight. But what you do next matters far more than what you receive. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West talks about the implications, options, and emotions. Then he'll answer questions on various financial topics.

2 Timothy 1:5 states, “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” This verse highlights how deeply a mother's faith can shape generations. Moms quietly cultivate our hearts, our values, and even our view of God. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West celebrates the impact of faithful mothers. Then he'll answer questions on various financial topics.

Is it possible to help your adult children in a way that actually stunts their growth? It’s not an easy question—but it’s an important one because the way we offer support can shape not just their circumstances, but their character. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West explores how to empower adult children. Then, Rob answers questions on various financial topics.

Economic headlines may shake our confidence, but God’s wisdom provides a firm foundation. When uncertainty emerges, fear often follows. Making financial decisions based on that worry can lead to regret. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Ron Blue share how we can fortify our finances for uncertain times while continually trusting the Lord. Then, Rob answers questions on various financial topics.

We’re continually tempted to want more, upgrade faster, and pursue the next big purchase—but what if all this activity actually costs us our freedom? On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Bob Lotich explain why wanting less may be one of the most powerful financial decisions you can make. Discover how making this shift can reshape your life. Then, Rob answers questions on various financial topics.

Billy Graham once said that a checkbook is a theological document; it tells you who and what you worship. Each day, we make financial decisions—often without much thought. It is wise, however, to slow down and look deeper because how we spend may reveal more about our hearts than we realize. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West explores how our typical purchases reflect what we truly value. Then, Rob answers questions on various financial topics.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 begins, “For everything there is a season . . .”. God has designed life to unfold in seasons. With each one comes new challenges, opportunities, and, sometimes, new finish lines. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Cody Hobelmann discuss why it’s not only okay to adjust your financial finish line—it’s often the wise and faithful thing to do. Then, Rob answers questions on various financial topics.

Could a reverse mortgage strengthen your financial plan? It may depend on whether it’s part of the plan at all. For many retirees, home equity is their largest asset; however, in most financial plans, it’s treated as if it doesn’t exist. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Harlan Accola explore how bringing your home into the plan can change everything. Then, they take listener calls with questions on reverse mortgages.

How much is enough, and why does sufficiency frequently seem just out of reach? We often think the answer is a number—a financial target that will bring peace. But what if “enough” isn’t something you reach, but something you define? On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West explores how that question is reframed biblically and why it matters for your contentment, your decisions, and your generosity. Then he'll tackle a few financial questions.

In a culture of instant gratification, it has never been easier to get what we want, when we want it—even if we can’t afford it. But at what cost? On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West will explore the hidden dangers of “Buy Now, Pay Later” programs. Then he'll tackle a few financial questions.

We’re told to plan for the future—but what happens when the future doesn’t follow the plan? We are reminded in Scripture that even our best plans are not the final word. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West explores a tension many of us experience but rarely talk about—the Paradox of Planning.

We are told clearly in Scripture that God owns everything, and we are merely stewards of what He has entrusted to us for a season. Part of good stewardship is knowing when you have enough. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, Rob West and Cody Hobelmann discuss how you can establish your first financial finish line. Then, Rob answers questions on various financial topics.

A humanitarian crisis is unfolding—and for hundreds of thousands of families, survival is now a daily question. Lebanon is once again facing a devastating conflict, and the impact on families—especially women and children—is overwhelming. On today's Faith & Finance on AFR, May-Lee Melki from Heart for Lebanon joins Rob West to share what’s happening and explain how we can help bring lasting hope.