Money Made Faithful With John Putnam

This refreshed replay brings back a conversation that still resonates deeply: the real value of college education in today’s changing world.

A Wall Street Journal article caught my attention—exploring why Americans are losing faith in higher education—and it sparked fresh reflections. With the rising costs of post-high school education and the shifting job market, it’s more important than ever to approach these decisions with wisdom, clarity, and intentionality.

In this replay, I’m sharing my interview with my dear friend Lisa Marker-Robbins, whose passion for guiding families, teens, and young adults through the college and career journey is unmatched. Over 25 years and more than 4,000 students later, Lisa’s experience offers an invaluable perspective for navigating post-high school decisions in a way that aligns both with practical realities and God-given giftedness.

In this episode, John discusses:

• Shifting confidence in college education
• How to navigate post-high school education choices wisely
• The power of early career clarity
• Practical ways parents can support their teen’s journey

Key Takeaways:

• Confidence in higher education is shifting due to factors like rising student debt and changing perceptions of value—making it essential to weigh educational paths carefully and prayerfully.
• Intentional conversations and exploring a wide spectrum of options (from four-year universities to trades and internships) can open the door to fulfilling, well-matched careers.
• Early career exploration—ideally beginning by mid-sophomore year—can have a profound impact on a student’s college and career path.
• Parents play a critical role in fostering open dialogue, challenging assumptions, and equipping teens to make informed, confident choices.

“There are a lot of benefits to going to college. It shows that you can do hard things; you build your adulting skills while living in a dorm or apartment. But the end goal is a career where your kid will flourish.”  — Lisa Marker-Robbins

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Ever find yourself with a little extra money and wonder what to do with it? Turns out, how you answer that question says a lot more about your mindset than you might think.

In this refreshed replay episode, I'm sharing a real-life street experiment I conducted years ago where I asked everyday folks what they'd do with an unexpected $100. Their answers? Revealing — and a perfect lead-in to today's conversation on a powerful (but often overlooked) concept in behavioral finance: mental accounting.

This isn’t just theory. It’s about the hidden rules you apply to your money — based on where it comes from — and how that impacts your financial decisions more than you realize. Grounded in biblical wisdom and packed with practical steps, this episode is your invitation to reset how you think about income, planning, and faithful stewardship. Let’s align our mindset and our money with God’s bigger vision for our lives.

In this episode, John discusses:

• The unseen impact of mental accounting on everyday financial choices
• How cognitive biases quietly shape spending decisions
• Strategies for bringing your money into alignment — spiritually and practically
• A faith-filled approach to financial planning

Key Takeaways:

• When you begin viewing all sources of money — whether a paycheck, a bonus, or an unexpected refund — as one unified provision from God rather than assigning different rules based on origin, you create space for clarity, consistency, and faithful financial choices that reflect your values.
• By reframing your mindset and refusing to compartmentalize funds into rigid mental categories, you open the door to a more strategic, intentional, and spiritually aligned approach to managing the resources entrusted to you.
• Building a financial plan that reflects biblical wisdom requires more than budgeting — it invites you to consider your habits, decisions, and priorities through the lens of stewardship, generosity, and long-term faithfulness.
• Bringing prayer into every financial decision — not just in crisis moments or big moves — allows you to develop a deeper sense of peace, direction, and confidence that you're walking in step with God’s provision and purposes.

“When we align our mindset and our heart set with God's wisdom, we don't just make better money decisions — we experience more peace, more clarity, more purpose in how we use the financial resources he's entrusted to us.” 

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Ever wondered why money conversations can feel so tense? You’re not alone…

It often comes down to how your natural Money MOs (short for 'modus operandi') interact—with each other, or with your bigger goals. In this refreshed replay of part two in our Money MO series, we’re digging deeper into how awareness of your unique financial wiring can be a powerful step toward unity, peace, and purpose in your money decisions.

This episode is about moving past the friction and into greater clarity, confidence, and connection—with each other and with God’s greater story for your life.

In this episode, John discusses:

• Creating financial harmony in your relationships
• Building stronger marriages through meaningful money conversations
• Celebrating the uniqueness of your Money MO as a path to spiritual growth
• Applying your MO to build wise, aligned, and peaceful stewardship

Key Takeaways:

• Your Money MO—whether you’re a spender, saver, investor, planner, or giver—isn’t about right or wrong; it’s about recognizing how you’re wired and using that awareness to move forward with more intention, alignment, and purpose in your financial decisions.
• When you start to see how your MO either blends beautifully or clashes with someone else’s, you open the door to more thoughtful conversations, less misunderstanding, and a shared path toward peace and partnership in money matters.
• Making space to meet regularly, speak honestly, and pray together around your finances is one of the most practical and powerful ways to reshape your habits, reduce conflict, and build a stronger foundation of trust and connection.
• Ephesians 4:11–16 reminds us that unity and maturity are part of our calling in Christ—and when your financial decisions are made through that lens, even money becomes a way to grow in faith, strengthen relationships, and reflect God’s greater purpose.

“When you are pursuing wise and faithful stewardship through prayer about being a part of God's larger story, your differences can be strengths when they're joined together in faith and wisdom.” 

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Money is more than math—it’s deeply personal. And for many of us, it’s also deeply patterned. In this refreshed replay of a listener favorite, we revisit a conversation that continues to resonate across seasons: understanding your “Money MO.”

Your money MO—short for modus operandi—is the natural way you approach money, shaped by your upbringing, personality, and experiences. Whether you're a spender, saver, investor, planner, or giver, your MO shows up around every financial decision you make.

In this first part of a two-part series, we unpack the five core Money MOs and why identifying yours (and those around you) can shift the way you manage money—and relationships.

In this episode, John discusses: 

• What a “Money MO” is and why it matters
• Five distinct Money MOs and how they show up in real life
• The strengths and struggles of each MO
• How your financial tendencies impact your relationships and your faith journey

Key Takeaways:

• Your Money MO is a deeply rooted pattern that influences how you think about, interact with, and make decisions around money, often without even realizing it.
• Gaining clarity about your financial tendencies can transform how you communicate and collaborate with others, especially within marriage or close relationships.
• Each MO carries both strengths and struggles, and recognizing these dynamics allows you to steward your financial behavior with more wisdom, grace, and intention.
• When surrendered within God’s bigger story, your Money MO becomes more than just a habit—it becomes a tool for spiritual growth, deeper connection, and faithful stewardship.

“The goal here is not to make you into the same person, but to be the person you were made to be with your Money MOs, to have them be surrendered into the context of God's larger story.”

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Today, we’re revisiting a quietly complex part of the stewardship journey—what I call “the weight of wealth.” Growing up on a farm with five brothers, I was introduced to the outdoors and especially backpacking. Just like carrying a pack in the wilderness, managing wealth carries its own kind of weight—ratios, balance, capacity—and no universal formula fits everyone.

We’ll look at five subtle signs that your wealth may be weighing you down, and four faithful steps to help you find your footing again. At the heart of it all is Proverbs 30:7-9, a prayer for just enough—not too much, and not too little.  This isn’t about guilt or fear - it’s about freedom. It's about carrying what you've been given with open hands and a steady heart.

In this episode, John discusses: 

• The surprising parallels between backpacking and managing wealth

• Why financial strain is often more spiritual than practical

• How to recognize when your wealth is 'managing you'

Key Takeaways:

• Managing wealth is a lot like carrying a backpack on a long trail—there’s no universal weight limit, but knowing your capacity and staying aware of when the load gets too heavy is essential to walking well.

• When financial concerns start overshadowing your generosity, peace, or spiritual focus, it’s a sign that wealth may be shaping your priorities more than God’s wisdom is.

• Prayer isn’t just a support tool for financial decisions—it’s the foundation that keeps your heart steady, your perspective clear, and your hands open to whatever God provides or redirects.

• Bringing others into your financial journey—wise counselors, trusted advisors, or Kingdom-minded mentors—can lighten the load and help you carry wealth with clarity, confidence, and grace.

“If you begin to feel a wealth hotspot, if you begin to feel financial strain in your life from the wealth that you have - there may be strain in your friendships, strain in your marriage, strain in your family, strain at work, whatever it may be - as soon as you feel this wealth hotspot forming, stop immediately and deal with it.”  

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As summer shines bright, it’s a perfect time to pause, reflect, and realign. Midyear often lands us in the messy middle—but what if we brought a little Christmas joy to the Summer season?

In this refreshed replay, we’re unwrapping a “Christmas in July” perspective to help you revisit your financial goals with renewed clarity and purpose.

Whether the year has flown by or felt heavy with unexpected turns, this conversation offers a thoughtful, Christ-centered reset to help you finish strong!

In this episode, John discusses:

• Why midyear is a powerful checkpoint for financial reflection
• The importance of revising plans in light of real life
• How to keep your goals aligned with faith and purpose
• Three practical steps to reflect, revise, and refocus

Key Takeaways:

• Taking time to reflect midyear gives you space to acknowledge progress, recognize what still needs attention, and reconnect with the heart behind your goals.
• Revising your financial plans allows you to adapt to life’s inevitable changes while staying grounded in a purpose that reflects your current season and needs.
• Realigning your goals with your faith and God's greater story helps ensure your financial journey is not just productive, but also deeply meaningful and spiritually aligned.
• Simplifying and refocusing your financial priorities can clear the clutter, ease the pressure, and help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and peace.

“We want to leave room for God to move. We want to plan. God asks us to plan, but not so much that we box him out.”  

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Summer is in full swing—a time filled with sunshine, shifting schedules, and all sorts of new opportunities. But as routines relax and plans pile up, it’s easy for our financial focus to fade without us even realizing it.

In this refreshed replay, we’re returning to a timely and practical conversation that really resonated with the Money Made Faithful community. We’re sharing three scripture-anchored tips to help you stay on track with your finances during the summer months so you can enjoy the season while still honoring your financial goals and your faith.

In this episode, John discusses:

• Three simple, biblical strategies to help you navigate summer money choices with purpose
• Why summer often challenges even the best financial plans—and how to stay grounded
• How aligning your money choices with biblical wisdom brings peace, clarity, and impact

Key Takeaways:

• Recognize how easily summer’s busyness and unpredictability can pull you off track. Building awareness—of your spending habits, current financial standing, and upcoming expenses—is the first step toward staying focused and faithful.
• Set clear, meaningful financial goals that reflect both your immediate needs and your long-term vision. By reviewing and adjusting your budget consistently, you can stay on mission—even when summer throws you a curveball.
• Make every financial decision count by choosing intentionally and resisting the impulse to spend without thought. Budgeting with purpose reflects your values, strengthens your faith journey, and allows you to be a good steward of what God has entrusted to you.
• Let scripture shape your summer decisions. When your financial plans grow from biblical truth, you’ll find yourself navigating this summer season with a sense of alignment, purpose, and gratitude—putting first things first and honoring God along the way.

“Every financial decision, even in the sun and fun of summer, is an opportunity to honor God and steward the blessings that He has given you.”

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We’re wrapping up our series on how to have your best vacation ever. We’ve already covered the power of setting and sharing expectations, along with eight intentional steps to make your time away more meaningful. But what happens when tech distractions sneak in and start to steal those special moments?

In this episode, we’re revisiting five practical tech tips to help you stay focused on what really matters during your vacation. A few thoughtful boundaries can go a long way toward keeping your attention—and your heart—right where it belongs.

In this episode, John discusses:

• Setting clear boundaries for technology use
• Using digital tools without letting them take over
• Modeling intentional tech habits for others
• Capturing memories creatively without relying on phones
• Getting active to help minimize screen time

Key Takeaways:

• Designate specific times and areas where phones and devices are off-limits—like meals, game time, or evenings. These tech-free zones help protect face-to-face connection and make space for deeper conversations.
• Schedule intentional moments for using phones—whether it’s snapping photos, checking in with friends, or finding local spots to explore—so tech use stays purposeful, not constant.
• Lead by example when it comes to phone habits. Others, especially kids, will often mirror what they see, so your own behavior can gently shape the group’s overall tech use.
• Bring along a digital or disposable camera to encourage creativity without defaulting to your phone. It adds fun to memory-making and invites everyone to see the trip from a different perspective.
• Plan active group moments that naturally draw attention away from screens—like a hike, a game, or a walk on the beach. Physical activity often creates space for presence, laughter, and lasting memories.

“Stay prayerful, flexible, graceful, and kind. Even with preparations and expectations set and shared, and tech tips in place, and doing your best, a plan is still only a plan.” 

Resources Mentioned:

• How Teens and Parents Approach Screen Time by Pew Research Center: https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2024/03/11/how-teens-and-parents-approach-screen-time/

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With summer right around the corner, many of us are longing for a true break—but how do we make sure our vacation leaves us rested, and not just overly busy in a different location?

In this refreshed replay of a listener favorite, we revisit eight practical and faith-rooted steps to help you plan a vacation that restores your soul, strengthens your relationships, and honors your calling.

Inspired by Mark 6, where Jesus invites His disciples to “come away… and rest,” this conversation blends spiritual wisdom and real-world strategies to help you prepare well and return refreshed.

If you're already planning on getting away this summer, this is the episode you will want to hear before you go.

In this episode, John discusses:

• How to plan for true rest before, during, and after your vacation
• The importance of prayer, preparation, and support systems
• Creative ways to build margin into your time away
• Budgeting and financial strategies that align with faithful stewardship

Key Takeaways:

• Start your vacation with prayer—lift up your work, your family, and your time away, inviting God to go before you and be present in every moment.
• Build support and set boundaries at work—from assigning a vacation buddy to crafting a thoughtful out-of-office reply, prepare to unplug with confidence.
• Plan both structure and spontaneity—leave room for rest, play, delays, and the unexpected ways God may show up in unplanned moments.
• Stay financially grounded—determine your budget in advance and vacation at the speed of cash to enjoy peace both during your trip and after you return home.

“Your work can wait. Your rest cannot. Jesus is waiting. Your family and friends are too. And may this year be the year of your best vacation ever.” 

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Welcome to the first episode in a special season of 'refreshed replays'—a curated collection of listener favorites we’re revisiting with fresh perspective as we journey toward episode 200.

These episodes are packed with timeless wisdom, and we’re pausing to reflect on them with new eyes, fresh hearts, and deeper intention.

Today, we're diving into a highly practical and transformative conversation: setting expectations for your next vacation. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or friends, we'll explore five key areas that can turn your time away into a truly restful and spiritually renewing experience.

Join me as we step into this season of reflection and rediscovery—one faithful conversation at a time.

In this episode, John discusses:

• Why unmet expectations can derail even the most well-planned vacations
• How clear communication can transform family and group trips
• The spiritual and emotional benefits of vacationing with intention
• How physical, financial, and relational awareness shapes a fulfilling break

Key Takeaways:

• Identifying what you and others want from your vacation—like quiet, adventure, or space to recharge—helps you communicate clearly and protect your time for true rest.
• Having honest conversations ahead of time about how you’ll spend time together or apart allows everyone to feel considered and reduces relational tension during the trip.
• Discussing financial boundaries in advance, including budgets and expectations for shared costs, prevents stress and creates space for generosity and enjoyment.
• Intentionally planning spiritual moments—like prayer, reflection, or faith-filled conversations—invites God into your time away and brings deeper purpose to your rest.
• Choosing activities that match your energy, abilities, and capacity allows you to enjoy memorable experiences without returning home more exhausted than when you left.

“Your time and rest with family and friends, I just want to remind you, this is important to God. And I believe it's His sincere desire for you and for me to take a break after the hard work.”

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After 185 episodes, we believe it’s time to reset with intention and seek God’s direction for our next season.

We’re taking a 'prayerful pause'—some time to reflect, listen, and reimagine how we can serve you even better.

This isn’t about stepping back; it’s about leaning in, listening deeply, and preparing for even greater impact.

We’re sharing what’s coming, how you can stay engaged, and how we believe this journey is just getting started.

Key Takeaways:

• We're taking a 90-day pause from new podcast episodes.
• Please stay engaged with us with “refreshed replays” to highlight top past episodes with added insight and updated commentary.
• New resources and workshops are being considered and developed to help you deepen your stewardship journey.
• Keep in touch and let us know of any suggestions, topic ideas, and prayer requests to shape future content.
• We are returning on September 2nd with Episode 200, marking a renewed vision, forward movement, and we're anticipating a few surprises, too!

"I’m embracing this pause not as downtime, but as preparation time. To hear from God. To ask better questions. To get clearer on the mission. To envision what’s next."

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What if the way you’ve been thinking about money is completely upside down?

In this episode, we’re challenging one of the most deeply held beliefs in our culture: ownership. Through scripture, personal reflection, and powerful truth, we’ll explore what it really means to steward something that doesn’t belong to you—and why embracing that reality could change everything about your financial journey.

In this episode, John discusses:

• Shifting your mindset from ownership to entrusted stewardship
• How core beliefs about money shape your goals and decisions
• The connection between spiritual obedience and financial behavior
• Using everyday financial choices to honor and reflect Christ

Key Takeaways:

• When you begin to see money not as something you own but as something entrusted to you by God, your entire approach to money becomes more intentional and aligned with His story.
• Believing that all resources belong to God, invites you to hold your finances with open hands, asking not “What do I want?” but “What does God want, through me?”
• Aligning your financial actions with God's purpose allows your daily decisions—big or small—to serve as visible testimonies of your faith and spiritual maturity.
• True financial peace isn’t found in reaching a number or goal, but in surrendering control and faithfully asking, “Lord, what would You have me do with Your money?”

“Let's stop asking, "What can I do with my money?" and let's start asking, "Lord, what would You have me do with Yours?" Guys, that is the shift that leads to freedom. That is the heart of stewardship—and stewarding what's not yours.” 

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We’re finishing the series on finding calm in the middle of our financial storms—this time focusing on the incredible power and results when Jesus speaks.

In Mark 4, His words don’t just still the wind and waves around the disciples—He challenges the disciples and exposes another storm within. In this episode, we explore how that same voice speaks boldly and divinely into our financial fears today.

With biblical insight and practical application, we’ll unpack how to find real peace, take faithful action, and stay anchored when everything around us feels uncertain.

In this episode, John discusses:

• How Jesus models divine authority in the midst of chaos
• The difference between external and internal turbulence 
• Responding to financial stress with faithful belief
• Building a steady money mindset using biblical truth

Key Takeaways:

• Jesus’ command to the storm in Mark 4 shows that His authority brings instant calm to the external chaos, reminding us that we can rely on His power in our financial storms, too.
• True peace isn’t about having perfect conditions or a fully funded financial plan—it’s about intentionally inviting the presence of Jesus into our decisions.
• Believing in God’s promises, His purpose, and His provision allows us to face external and intermnal pressure with confidence and clarity.

“Peace isn't just a feeling. Peace is a person, and that person is Jesus.” 

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In this episode, we step into the tension of financial storms and reflect on how fear quietly shapes our decisions in times of uncertainty.

We revisit a real storm and story on the Sea of Galilee to draw timeless truths about trust, stewardship, and peace. As we consider unhealthy and healthy fear, we’re reminded that calm doesn’t depend on the storm ending—it depends on knowing who's already in the boat with us.

This conversation lays the groundwork for what’s still to come as we continue navigating faith and finances under pressure.

In this episode, John discusses:

• How fear influences our financial decisions during uncertain times
• What a biblical storm and story can teach us about our current reality
• Distinguishing between types of fear in the face of financial pressure
• Inviting spiritual perspective into money choices

Key Takeaways:

• When we allow unhealthy fear to take over, it hijacks our ability to make wise decisions and pushes us toward reactive, emotionally driven financial choices that often don’t serve us well.
• Healthy fear, in contrast, can sharpen our vision and help us stay grounded, encouraging intentionality, faithful stewardship, and renewed focus on what truly matters.
• Even when our circumstances feel overwhelming and the waves are crashing, we can experience calm by remembering that Jesus hasn’t left—we just need to let Him in.
• His kind of peace doesn't require perfect conditions; it requires awareness of His presence and the courage to trust His guidance even when our financial future looks uncertain.

“I know the storm can feel difficult. I know it can feel tumultuous, but you don't need the storm to stop for Jesus to bring peace to you. You just need to know where He is—and He's in your boat.” 

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Small choices shape big destinies—and that’s just as true with your money as it is with your faith. In this encore episode, we’re revisiting a powerful truth: every financial decision you make is moving you either closer to God and His purpose or further away. 

Using the Financial Forensics model, we’ll unpack the five essential steps behind every money choice and show how you can navigate decisions with greater wisdom, peace, and purpose.

Let’s lean into faithful stewardship one small step at a time—and watch those steps lead to lasting impact.

In this episode, John discusses: 

• How everyday financial choices impact long-term outcomes

• The spiritual significance behind small decisions

• Understanding the internal process of decision-making

• Practical steps to align financial choices with faithful stewardship

Key Takeaways:

• Every financial decision begins with a source—whether seen or unseen—and discerning the true motives behind it helps you respond with greater wisdom and faithfulness.

• What you allow through your senses shapes your mind and heart, making it crucial to guard what you see, hear, and take in when making financial choices.

• Training your mind to dwell on truth and excellence prepares you to think clearly and resist worldly patterns that can derail wise stewardship.

• Since your deepest beliefs and desires live in your heart, nurturing a heart aligned with God’s truth is essential for making faithful financial decisions.

• By submitting each decision to prayer and seeking God’s direction, you invite His wisdom into your finances and anchor your choices in His purpose for your life. 

“I truly believe that the little financial choices we make every day have the ability to bring us closer to God or closer to the world. That's why it's so critical that we choose wisely.”  

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In this post-Easter Sunday episode, we’re exploring how to stand firm in faith during seasons of financial turbulence.

Drawing from Ephesians 4, we’ll reflect on a few powerful words that call us to maturity and unity, even when uncertainty tries to shake our confidence.

These verses remind us that we are being equipped, not just for survival, but for spiritual growth and purposeful stewardship.

Join me as we walk through this timely scripture and discover how your financial decisions can reflect peace, wisdom, and faith, right where you are.

In this episode, John discusses:

• Finding clarity and confidence in your financial decisions during uncertain times
• What scripture teaches us about stability, maturity, and wise financial stewardship
• The connection between personal spiritual growth and how we make our money choices
• How small financial habits can align with a greater mission, even in a volatile economy

Key Takeaways:

• “Until” reminds us that our journey toward spiritual and financial maturity takes time, and every faithful step we take today—even in the face of uncertainty—is preparing us for something greater God is building in and through us.
• “So that” helps us shift our perspective from short-term fixes to long-term faithfulness, anchoring our financial decisions in a bigger purpose that brings unity, growth, and peace.
• “Rather” invites us to resist the pull of fear-based reactions and instead respond with intentional choices rooted in love, truth, and a commitment to becoming more like Christ.
• The most meaningful stewardship isn’t measured by dollar amounts, but by the posture of a heart that chooses faith, generosity, and trust—even when the market is shaky, giving may be small, or the future feels unclear.

“Every dollar you manage, every money choice you make, is a discipleship decision. Every financial step you take is a chance to reflect God and His truth and His wisdom, or to be swayed by the fear that is in the world.”

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It’s tax day—and while the world shouts “show me the money,” Jesus invites us to consider something far deeper. In this episode, we reflect on His powerful response about coins, likeness, and what truly belongs to God. Our financial choices tell a story—not just of dollars and cents, but of mission, identity, and eternal value. Join me as we explore how faith and finances intersect, and what it really means to bear God's image in our money decisions.

In this episode, John discusses:

• The deeper meaning behind Jesus' words about taxes and Caesar’s coin
• How our identity and purpose shape the way we handle money
• Recognizing the spiritual impact of our financial choices
• The invitation to reflect God’s likeness in both our life and finances

Key Takeaways:

• Jesus’ teaching to “render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” reminds us that while taxes are a civic duty, our ultimate allegiance—reflected in all aspects of our lives, including money—belongs to God.
• Like the coin bearing Caesar’s image, we bear the image and inscription of our Creator, and the way we handle money reveals whether we are living out that identity or allowing the world’s values to define us.
• Every financial decision we make—how we earn, give, spend, save, and invest—can either demonstrate faithful trust in God’s provision or expose a reliance on self-sufficiency, fear, and performance.
• When we treat money as a tool, a test, and a testimony, we begin to understand that our financial choices tell a bigger story—one that can point others to God’s character and His Kingdom purposes.

“We are worth more than any deduction, any refund, any return you could ever calculate, because what we give to God—our trust and our obedience and our identity, our lives, and yes, our money and our faithful money choices—has massive eternal value and eternal impact.” 

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We’re revisiting a topic that touches so many American’s wallets: tax refunds. While a big check might feel like a blessing, we’re unpacking why it may not be as helpful—or as wise—as it seems.

Could that extra cash be masking deeper issues with planning, stewardship, and financial alignment?

We’ll take a look at what scripture says about managing our resources and how your approach to taxes can either support or hinder a life of God-honoring stewardship. Let’s explore a lesser-walked path forward—one marked by clarity, wisdom, and freedom.

In this episode, John discusses:

• The hidden financial drawbacks of tax refunds
• How cultural messages shape our money decisions
• The connection between faithful stewardship and tax planning
• Biblical principles applied to everyday financial choices

Key Takeaways:

• When you overpay your taxes and look forward to a refund, you're essentially handing the government an interest-free loan, tightening your cash flow and limiting your ability to meet everyday needs.
• Depending on a refund to cover major expenses often points to weaker financial planning, but proactively estimating your tax liability throughout the year helps you stay prepared.
• Optimizing your tax withholdings allows you to keep more of your income throughout the year, creating space for more purposeful, productive use of your money.
• Rather than letting your refund be influenced by marketing messages and then disappear into impulse buys, choosing to allocate it to help you live with more intention and faithful financial discipline will pay BIG dividends!

“I love the way the Bible stresses the importance in the scripture I just shared about honoring civic responsibilities, and that includes paying taxes as a part of wise and faithful financial stewardship.” 

Resources Mentioned:

It's April Fool’s Day!

While today is full of playful pranks and good-hearted fun, there’s one kind of foolishness that’s no joke—financial foolishness.

In this episode, we dig into Jesus’ parable of the rich fool and uncover three powerful ways to avoid making financial missteps that can hold you back.

Through justice, kindness, and humility, we can align our hearts, minds and finances with God’s greater purpose. Tune in to learn how to make your money tell a better story—God’s story.

In this episode, John discusses:

• The history of April Fool’s Day
• Jesus’ parable of the rich fool and its financial implications
• The role of justice, kindness, and humility in financial decision-making
• Aligning with God’s pland and purpose

Key Takeaways:

• Do justice by ensuring your financial resources are used ethically, advocating for fairness, and helping rather than accumulating wealth solely for personal gain.
• Love kindness by shifting your financial focus from material success to using money as a tool to bless others, strengthen relationships, and reflect God’s love in practical ways.
• Walk humbly with God in your financial journey by surrendering control, seeking His guidance in your decisions, and trusting that true security comes from faith rather than financial control.
• True financial success isn’t measured by how much we store, but by how well we steward what we have, keeping our hearts focused on God’s eternal purpose rather than temporary riches.

“Let's make sure that we're not just successful, but also surrendered. This parable that Jesus told was meant to reshape and redirect our hearts and minds, keeping them focused on Him and His greater story, while hopefully encouraging us to align our financial goals with God's greater purposes.” 

Resources Mentioned:

• The April Fools' Day history excerpt is based on the History Channel article from March 30, 2017: https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/april-fools-day
• The Bible Project - JUSTICE: https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/justice/
• FaithFi - RICH TOWARD GOD bible study: https://www.faithfi.com/shop/rtg

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Do you remember your "starting out" days—the mismatched furniture, budget-friendly meals, and the simple joy of making do with what you had?

In this episode, I'm sharing an excerpt from my book, He Spends She Spends, and exploring how humble beginnings aren’t just a season of 'not enough', but a powerful lesson in God’s provision and financial faithfulness. 

Our "remember when" stories are more than nostalgia; they’re spiritual markers reminding us of gratitude, contentment, and trust. 

Join me as we reflect on how these early lessons can shape the way we steward our finances today, no matter where we are on the journey.

In this episode, John discusses:

• The power of "remember when" stories in shaping financial perspective
• How financial struggles can teach contentment and trust in God’s provision
• The importance of gratitude in shifting from scarcity to sufficiency
• How financial stewardship aligns with faith and long-term fulfillment

Key Takeaways:

• Reflecting on our past financial challenges helps us recognize how God’s provision carried us through difficult seasons, fostering a heart of gratitude that reshapes how we view both abundance and scarcity today.
• Contentment is not about how much we have, but about trusting that God provides exactly what we need in every season, allowing us to release the cultural pressure to chase money, image, or material success.
• When we practice gratitude in our financial journey, we shift our mindset from focusing on what we lack to appreciating what we have, leading to wiser financial decisions and a deeper sense of peace and security.
• Revisiting the humble beginnings of our financial journey can strengthen our relationships, deepen our faith, and remind us that true wealth is found not in possessions but in the love, provision, and purpose God has placed in our lives.

“Gratitude is the currency of a faithful financial life. It helps us see provision instead of pressure and sufficiency instead of scarcity.” 

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Have you ever started a great habit with the best intentions, only to see it slip away after a few days?

In this episode, we’re diving into a simple but powerful way to build consistency in your time with God—through a structured morning routine that supports 'The 5 Fives' framework.

We’ll uncover the key obstacles that get in the way of daily devotion and share practical strategies to remove them. By setting up your space, preparing your heart, and creating intentional cues, you can start each day with focus, faith, and a deep connection to God.

In this episode, John discusses: 

• The importance of morning preparation for spiritual consistency
• How small daily habits create long-term spiritual growth
• Practical ways to eliminate distractions from your devotional time
• Aligning your schedule with God’s presence and purpose

Key Takeaways:

• Setting up your Bible, pad and pen, and a designated space the night before eliminates decision fatigue in the morning, making it easier to begin your time with focus and intention.
• Placing visual reminders, like simple sticky notes with reminder messages or repositioning your morning alarm, helps reinforce prioritizing God before distractions set in.
• Ending each day with a simple prayer of gratitude and surrender not only strengthens your faith but also mentally and spiritually prepares you to stay committed to your morning devotion.
• Rather than striving for a perfect routine, embracing even a few minutes of intentional time with God—whether reading scripture or praying on the go—ensures you stay spiritually focused and connected, even with a busy schedule.

“ This [The 5 Fives] is not about checking a box. It's about just showing up to be with God, the one who loves you unconditionally and wants nothing more than you and your heart.” 

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Spring is a season of renewal, and today we’re diving into how fresh spiritual habits can create lasting transformation in both our faith and finances.

If you’ve ever struggled with consistency in Bible reading, prayer, or seeking God’s guidance in your financial decisions, you’re not alone. In this episode, we’ll explore a simple yet powerful framework called The Five 5’s to build a strong daily foundation. 

These intentional steps will help align your heart, mind, and money with God’s wisdom, leading to greater peace, clarity, and trust in your stewardship journey.

Let’s break free from inconsistency and step into a rhythm of renewal!

In this episode, John discusses:

• The power of fresh starts and spiritual renewal
• How daily spiritual disciplines influence financial decisions
• Practical steps to build consistency in Bible reading and prayer
• Aligning faith and finances through intentional habits

Key Takeaways:

• Starting your day with just five minutes in Scripture helps you gain clarity, wisdom, and direction for both spiritual growth and financial stewardship.
• Taking five minutes to meditate on God’s Word allows His truth to sink in, shaping your thoughts, emotions, and financial choices.
• Spending five minutes in prayer invites God into your daily decisions, helping you surrender financial worries and trust in His provision.
• Practicing five minutes of stillness opens space to hear God’s guidance, leading to faith-driven, rather than fear-driven, financial decisions.
• Ending your day with five 'thank-yous' shifts your focus from financial stress to God’s faithfulness, fostering contentment and peace.

“Imagine what would happen if you just took these Five 5’s every day and engaged with God—His wisdom, His truth, and His love—aligning your financial choices and your life with His heart and His mind. My friends, give this to Him as an offering. Seek Him in the midst of your life and your financial life, and watch how God does what only He can do.” 

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• VISIT MONEY MADE FAITHFUL: https://moneymadefaithful.com/
• GET FREE RESOURCES when you join THE HUB: https://moneymadefaithful.com/resource-library-access/Landing-page

• BOOK A WORKSHOP & DETAILS: https://moneymadefaithful.com/money-made-faithful-workshop-2/Landing-page

• INVITE JOHN TO SPEAK at your conference, church, or event:  https://moneymadefaithful.com/services

Spring is right around the corner, making it the perfect time for a little financial spring cleaning!

Just like dust and clutter can pile up in our homes over time, unnoticed charges, outdated spending habits, and financial disorganization can accumulate in our finances. 

In this episode, we’re uncovering three simple steps to clear out the money "dust, dirt and disarray" and clean up your finances with clear steps and wisdom.

By taking small, practical actions, you can align your financial decisions with faithful stewardship and experience greater financial peace and clarity. 

In this episode, John discusses: 

• The impact of financial clutter on your peace of mind

• Identifying small, unnoticed expenses that add up over time

• Practical steps to reset dialy habits and regain control

• The importance of financial organization for wise stewardship

Key Takeaways:

• Reviewing bank statements can help uncover forgotten subscriptions and automatic payments that no longer serve you—canceling them can free up money instantly.

• Small daily expenses can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars over a year—tracking and adjusting these habits can lead to significant savings.

• Implementing a pause or a list before making online purchases can prevent impulse spending and encourage more intentional financial decisions.

• Conducting a quarterly financial review with three key questions can bring clarity and help align your finances with your values. 

“Ask God for wisdom and discernment—for patience, focus, and stick-to-itiveness—so you can dig in, be diligent in your efforts, and trust that He's guiding you to be the wise and faithful steward of what He has put in your hands.”  

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