Hi Chuck, 

A friend just told me her widowed mother fell for a scam that cost her $20,000. I am concerned about my elderly father and his mobile phone. He now knows that he doesn’t have to answer every phone call. But he reads every text, and I need to know how to help him avoid getting scammed. 

Protection from Scammer

Dear Protection from Scammers,

This happens far too often and can be devastating. Seniors are becoming frequent targets due to their vulnerability, lack of technology skills, and potential access to resources.

The key is to outsmart scammers by pausing, refusing to react emotionally, and getting a trusted person’s opinion before taking any action requested. Help your loved one understand that no legitimate organization will request personal information or demand urgent action in a text.

We pulled together some information that I hope will be helpful to you and your elderly father. 

FBI Warning on Text Message Scams

Texting scams are often referred to as “smishing.” The term comes from combining SMS (Short Message Service or text messages) with “phishing.” The goal is to deceive people into revealing personal information or downloading malicious software. Red flags that are worthy of caution are urgent requests for personal information or offers that seem too good to be true. 

Common “Smishing” Scams

• Bank impersonations: Messages claiming issues with bank accounts and prompting users to click links or provide details
• Delivery notifications: Package delay alerts that lead to fake tracking sites 
• Account verification: Requests to verify account details for PayPal, Netflix, etc., that lead to phishing sites
• Prize or lottery scams: Notification that the recipient has won a prize, with personal information required to claim it 
• Job or money-making offers
• Offers of a low or no-interest credit card
• Offers to help pay off your student loans
• Fake invoices, along with how to dispute the unauthorized purchases 
• “Your account has been compromised” messages, with a notice to reply to an authorization code to confirm your identity
• Government agency impersonations: IRS, Social Security, law enforcement, unpaid traffic ticket, or toll
• Romance scams that seek to deceive the lonely into sending money to facilitate travel or to help with a pressing financial problem

Protective Measures

• Use apps that block spam messages.
• Be skeptical and slow to respond. Ask someone you trust before answering a concerning text to determine if it is real or valid. 
• Never respond to unsolicited business texts. 
• Do not click links. 
• Verify the source. If you think it could be valid, call the organization or check out the situation online. Do not reply via text.
• Common indicators are spelling and grammar errors.
• Report any “smishing” attempts to your mobile carrier or authorities.

Guard Information on Your Phone

• Turn on biometric identification (fingerprint or facial recognition) to prevent a thief from logging in to your phone. 
• Enable your phone settings to send calls from unknown numbers to voicemail.
• Always sign out of financial apps when not using them: credit cards, financial institutions, and peer-to-peer apps, like Zelle, Venmo, or CashApp.

Scammers Are Using AI 

According to an article at Forbes, AI tools are being weaponized by scammers to: 

• Increase the scale of attacks by sending a large volume of automated messages customized for different victims.
• Increase the chances of engagement by using behavior predictive analysis based on typical phone usage patterns.
• Increase the likelihood of success by launching hybrid, multi-stage attacks, combining AI-generated audio messages with fraudulent SMS. 

Fear and Urgency 

Zak Doffman at Forbes reported in June that, according to the FBI, “Scammers always prey on people’s fears. They’re always opportunistic… They try to ratchet up that sense of urgency so that you don’t think about what you’re doing and then they just send the money.”

If anyone gives personal or financial details to a scammer, report the text messages to the FTC using the instructions at the bottom of their guide. Notify the bank or credit card company (without using the same number given when returning the scam text) about the issue. 

There are three ways to report spam text messages:

• Copy the message, and forward it to 7726 (SPAM). This helps your wireless provider spot and block similar messages in the future.
• Report it on the messaging app you use. Look for the option to report junk or spam. 
• Report it to the FTC at www.ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Advice for Believers 

“Smishing” scammers depend on getting victims to click before they think. The Bible instructs us to be shrewd. 

For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice and watching over the way of his saints.

 (Proverbs 2:6–8 ESV)

Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority… ‘I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. Be on your guard.’” (Matthew 10:1, 16–17a NIV)

Advise your Dad to be shrewd, innocent, and guarded when it comes to sharing information and responding to texts. There are wicked people in this world who will take advantage of the innocent. 

Be Diligent

I am receiving more junk emails, calls, and texts than ever before. I delete and report them because it informs my phone’s system and carrier about spam messages. 

This simple step can improve detection and reduce future unwanted messages. Carriers may flag the sender’s number, which can help block future messages from that source. The more we report spam, the better our systems become at identifying and filtering unwanted messages. By deleting and reporting junk texts, you protect yourself and help reduce spam for everyone. (Note, this does not block the sender. That’s a step you have to do yourself.)

Do you want more tools and tips on financial stewardship? Are you interested in receiving encouraging ministry updates from around the world? Sign up to receive the Crown Newsletter emails by using the form on the homepage at Crown.org.

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on February 13, 2026.

Dear Chuck,

The new Trump Account sounds very interesting. Should I contribute to it for my children? Anything that worries you? 

Young Mom of Two 

Dear Young Mom of Two, 

First, let’s define what you mean by “Trump Account” to be sure we are on the same page. I like to think of it as a “Children’s Jumpstart Account.” 

A Trump Account is a new type of long-term investment account created under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) to encourage early saving for minors. Think of it as a starter IRA owned by a child with a parent or guardian acting on behalf of the beneficiary until they reach the age of 18. It’s been described as a cross between a traditional IRA and a 529 savings account. Because of that, they will be difficult and expensive to liquidate before the age of 18 in order to protect the money for the child’s future. 

How It Works 

Seed money can be gained when opening a Trump Account. It is free money that costs you nothing to claim, except the time to complete the form. This government pilot program will provide $1,000 to eligible children born between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2028, who have valid Social Security numbers and are U.S. citizens. The Treasury Department will create and administer the initial accounts, which are slated to be available July 5, 2026. Families can then roll over the account to a financial provider that has a Trump Account product. 

Form 4547 must be filed through the IRS, or go online at trumpaccounts.gov. When filing, elect the option to open the account. Then elect to request the $1,000 if eligible. Two children can be elected on one form. File additional forms if needed. This can be filed with your 2025 tax return.

Individuals (parents and grandparents), employers, and charities may contribute up to $5,000 in total. The initial $1,000 seed money does not count toward the annual limit. If the limit is exceeded, the IRS may assess a penalty until the excess is corrected by withdrawing the over-the-limit contribution and any earnings. 

Qualified general contributions (from charitable organizations) do not have an annual limit, which will benefit eligible families. Investments are limited to low-cost index mutual funds or ETFs with a 0.10% expense cap and no leverage. No withdrawals are allowed before age 18. After that, traditional IRA rules apply, with earnings being taxable when withdrawn.

It is highly important to keep accurate records of contribution sources for future distribution tax purposes and rollover reporting. Also, be aware of new details or changes that may occur prior to July 5, 2026. 

Kiplinger reports that $1,000 allowed to compound at the S&P 500’s average 10% return would be worth over $490,000 by the time a child reaches retirement age. For children born before 2025, you may want to consider the options listed below.

Benefits of a Trump Account

• Tax-deferred growth potential
• No earned income requirement for contributions
• $1,000 government seed contribution for eligible newborns
• Low-cost index fund/ETF investment options
• Flexible funding sources
• No earned income requirement
• No required minimum distributions (RMDs) at the age of retirement

Things to Consider

• Your personal financial circumstances 
• Investment is restricted to U.S stock index funds (low-risk, low-fee, broadly diversified) 
• Less flexibility than other accounts
• Annual contribution cap of $5,000/child
• Taxed as income at the child’s tax rate at distribution (at a lower long-term capital gains rate)
• Contributions are not tax-deductible
• Employer payroll feature depends on plan adoption; it is excluded from taxable income
• No withdrawals before age 18 except in the following conditions:
  • Death of the child
  • Changing financial institution or switching trustees;  moving to another Trump Account
  • Rollover to an ABLE account for those with a qualifying disability the year the child turns 17
  • Correction of excess contributions

Options

• A 529 Plan may be better for college savings (see link below).
• If a child has earned income, a Roth IRA has higher contribution limits, and withdrawals in retirement are tax-free.

No Worries, Just Some Considerations

A slight caveat to be aware of, according to Amanda Macias at FoxBusiness:

“The IRS has issued only preliminary guidance and is now seeking public feedback, a formal process that allows parents, financial experts, companies and advocacy groups to comment before the regulations are finalized. The comment period remains open through February 20, 2026, meaning many details of the program are still subject to change.”

If this is approved, I see no reason not to take advantage of the offer for free money. My advice is to open a Trump Account for each of your qualifying children. It is important to max out your own retirement accounts, particularly if an employee match is available, before you begin socking extra money away in the children’s Trump Accounts. Remember, not every child will go to college, so consider the most flexible options and benefits of a variety of accounts. I have links to additional resources below. 

Consider using the same level of restraint as in the Trump Account for your personal financial management. Treat all funds as dedicated to your future, and be disciplined in how you give, save, and invest regularly. 

As in all things, God is pleased with good stewardship. Keep good records, give faithfully every month, and save and invest a portion of all your income with consistent discipline. Just as a Trump Account, compounded over many years, can yield significant returns, this approach will pay great dividends over time. 

Extra Information

• See the growth charts at the Motley Fool, Fidelity, and Schwab
• Compare Trump Accounts and 529 College plans
• How Trump Accounts compare with other savings options for minors
• Form 4547 as of December 2025

I’d like to invite you and your family to join a free Crown Bible study on the YouVersion app. Saturate your mind daily with instruction and encouragement from God’s Word.

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on February 6, 2026.

Dear Chuck,

Last year was the first time I had ever heard of Frugal February. Our family of four plans to try it, and we welcome some of your ideas to make it work. 

Family Needs to Save More

Dear Family Needs to Save More, 

“Frugal February” is a term that people have adopted as the month to focus on saving money. My guess is it was born out of what many experience as a “Holiday Hangover”—too much spending on the three major events in November, December, and January. Whether desiring to pay off debt, build savings, or work toward a specific goal, February is the chosen month for the challenge.

I have had to learn to be frugal. My wife, Ann, has it in her DNA, but I am the opposite. I always spent more than we had, so progress was a challenge for years. The two of us have collaborated here to share some of our best tips since she is our in-house expert on frugality. We will start with her tip: make frugality fun! Yes, she sees this as fun, which is a very helpful way to get your family excited about it. Let’s get into some of our helpful tips.

Frugal Families Work Together

Small adjustments in spending can add up to make a big impact. Practiced over time, a frugal mentality helps financially strapped individuals and families make great progress. The challenge can actually be fun, so recruit friends or family to join you. Set some goals and rewards for the children to get excited about. 

If you don’t already have one, establish a budget. Try Crown’s Quick Start Guide or NerdWallet’s list of free templates. Track your spending, and aim to reduce variable costs as much as possible. Cut out all unnecessary spending. Do you really need every one of those streaming services, subscriptions, or apps? If you are paying $12.99 per month for one, that is $156 every year. Five services cost $779 per year. Ten services add up to $1559 annually! That money could go a long way toward paying down debt or funding an emergency account. In addition, try the following:

• Cash in your credit card rewards.
• Use your gift cards for necessary purchases or gifts.
• Negotiate a cheaper cell phone package as well as home and car insurance.
• Roll and deposit spare change. Then pay bills, fund an emergency account, or buy necessities.
• See how long you can go without spending money—try a “spending fast.” 
• Avoid online and physical shopping sites to prevent impulse purchases. 
• If you must go to the store, analyze items by asking, “Is this a need or a want?” 
• Clean out closets and drawers. See how much you already have and what you forgot you had! Use it, sell it, or donate it! 

Manage Your Food Costs 

Cut way back on food expenses by planning to eat at home. Weekly meal prep will save you the cost of eating out. Cook from scratch. Don’t know how? Invite an older friend or family member to teach you. Make your own coffee, carry lunch to work, and prepare snacks to avoid buying fast food. Eat out of the pantry and freezer. This is a great way to clean out and save money! Prepare extra to freeze, take for lunch, or enjoy later. 

Get creative. Google “frugal meals.” Have fun! Eat breakfast for dinner, and give thanks. How about hosting a “Frugal Potluck”? Think about poor nations whose people are glad to have anything to eat! Do not complain. Instead, look forward to the extra money you will save during the month. When March comes around, you may have developed new habits that will enable you to continue saving.

Consider Lifestyle Changes

Perhaps this is the month you need to pray about and pursue major lifestyle changes to relieve financial stress and reach important goals. It is easy to get caught up in worldly things, but they will never truly satisfy. Ask the Lord to give you discernment and unity with your spouse in decision-making. 

In addition to cutting spending, use the month to get your financial house in order:

• Review or set short and long-term goals.
• Set up bill pay to eliminate late fees and penalties.  
• Automate savings.
• Prepare a will and estate plans.
• Analyze investment fees.
• Gather paperwork to prepare taxes.
• If you receive a tax refund, consider adjusting your withholding.
• Try to participate in company perks, like an FSA, 401(k), 403(b), etc., if budget allows.  
• Plan now for home and auto maintenance and repairs, as well as other major expenses.
• If marriage, a baby, or buying a car or house is in your future, make a financial plan.
• Take steps to prepare for a debt-free vacation to celebrate your progress.

Cut the cost of entertainment by finding free (or low-cost) museums, parks, and cultural events. Invite friends over. With the money saved in less than 30 days, you can reduce your credit card debt, fund an emergency account, or save for a major goal. 

Take the Frugal February challenge one day at a time, and see how much a little self-discipline can work for you! Contentment is key. Don’t get discouraged because of a setback. You can be frugal in March, April, May, and so on! Seek to become a better steward of what you’ve been entrusted with, and post your frugal tips below!

“For I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:11b–13 ESV)

Set and achieve your goals with the help of a personal business coach. Crown’s online Budget Coaching program matches you with a certified coach who will work with you to develop a customized plan to put you on the road to financial freedom. 

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on January 30, 2026. 

Dear Chuck,

My daughter asked me for my thoughts on FinTok for helping college kids handle money. Can you give me your perspective on this? 

Not a FinTok Mom 

Dear Not a FinTok Mom, 

For those who do not know what we are talking about, there is a community on TikTok where influencers and users share financial advice and education through short videos. The hashtags #FinTok and #PersonalFinance have billions of views, indicating a strong interest in financial topics within the TikTok community. FinTok is especially popular with Gen Z and Millennials, who prefer this platform over traditional financial advisors. 

Entertainment/Financial Advice

The content is designed to be both educational and entertaining. Topics like budgeting, saving, investing, and retirement planning are addressed, and interaction is encouraged through comments, questions, and shared experiences. 

On one hand, it’s good to know that young people are taking an interest in financial literacy. However, just because something is “viral,” the actual money advice isn’t always reliable, especially when compared to Biblical wisdom that has proven to be helpful and accurate for centuries. Content can be misleading or based on personal experience, not expertise. Some scam content posted by influencers promotes expensive courses or products without any real value. 

Third Party Evaluations

We found an interesting source called Daytrading.com that created the Finance TikTok Report Card to analyze viral claims and grade them for “accuracy, disclosures, oversimplification, and educational value.” They reviewed finance and investing videos during September 2025. Combined, the videos they reviewed received nearly 256,000 views. Here is a summary of the article:

The Findings

• 70% of the finance videos didn’t clear a B grade.
• Risk disclosure was weakest: 30% scored an F, only 10% an A.
• Oversimplification was common: 60% of videos were rated D or F.
• Accuracy: 20% A, 40% C, 30% D.

The Discoveries

• Risk-free narratives dominate the feeds.
• Oversimplification drives engagement; accuracy and context don’t.
• Crypto content remains highly popular.
• Thoughtful educators are rare.

The Implications

• Viewers may mistake entertainment for real guidance.
• Loud, flashy content often outweighs accuracy.
• Regulators face enforcement challenges.
• There’s an opportunity for financial firms to provide credible content.

  

It Is Catching On 

Chime.com surveyed 2,000 Americans (Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers) to see how TikTok is shaping financial habits. Here is a summary of the impact in 2025:

User Habits

• Average users scroll through over 400 hours of financial content annually.
• Younger viewers report that the videos make money topics easier to understand.
• Some older viewers (Boomers) find the content inaccurate but still watch.
• Gen Z is more likely than Boomers to find the tips effective.
• 53% of users plan to increase their TikTok finance use in 2026.

Goals & Focus

• The main objectives are improving savings habits and building financial confidence.
• Gen Z is especially focused on paying down debt quickly and learning new investment strategies.

Popular Money-Saving Trends

• 59% of users tried at least one trend; top trends include:
  • Low Budget Living – 30%
  • Side Hustle Sprint – 20%
  • Girl Math – 17%
  • No Spend September – 15%
  • Budget Bucket Challenge – 12%
  • Debt Pay-Off Winter – 12%

Risks of Scams

Pioneer reports: “As more people have gotten wind of the FinTok trend, there has been an increase in scam content. This usually comes in the form of people showing off their money, cars, and houses with promises of helping users become more ‘financially free.’ Sadly, many of these accounts are fake—as are the lifestyles they promote. The creators use their content to gain trust and leverage an audience and then package up their ‘advice’ into expensive courses and products.”

Helpful Biblical Perspective

To help you support your daughter, I would say there is a benefit in that some are taking positive action to improve their finances. However, like any advice, it should be filtered through a Biblical lens to determine if it is truly helpful or just a lie wrapped up in clever marketing. In my own life, I had to learn the dangers of becoming a success in man’s economy but a failure in God’s economy. The following verses will help you discuss what is truly important for her to understand that is not likely to get posted on FinTok: 

God is the Owner. We are temporary stewards.

“The Earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof.”

Psalm 24:1a (ESV) 

He provides, but we are to place our faith totally in Him. 

“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘I will never leave you, never will I forsake you.’”

Hebrews 13:5 (NIV)

Avoid greed and boasting. 

“Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.”

1 Timothy 6:9–10a (NIV)

Be faithful, not greedy. 

“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” 

Proverbs 21:5 (NIV)

Be generous.

“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops.”

Proverbs 3:9 (NIV)

Keep an eternal perspective. 

“Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you.” 

John 6:27 (ESV)

Whether you’ve been part of Crown for years or are just discovering us, we’d love for you to be part of our 50th Anniversary Celebration. For five decades, Crown has taught biblical stewardship principles that transform finances, strengthen families, and deepen faith. Lives have been changed. Communities have been empowered. Purpose has been rediscovered. And we’re just getting started!

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on January 23, 2026. 

Dear Chuck,

Everything seems to be getting expensive fast. What should I do to protect my family? Is it time to buy or sell? I am confused. 

Should I Buy or Sell? 

Dear Should I Buy or Sell?

Your question is very relevant to all of us. Prices are going up, and our purchasing power is going down. Fortunately, this topic is addressed in Scripture. Let’s take a brief look at where we are, and then I will offer some Biblical perspective. 

Everything Is Going Up!

I recently read a report published by The Kobeissi Letter, an industry-leading commentary on the global capital markets (not an endorsement, just a data source), that noted where we are right now: 

• Stocks = Record High
• Gold = Record High
• Silver = Record High
• Home Prices = Record High 
• Copper = Record High
• Platinum = Record High 
• Money Market Funds = Record High
• US Debt = Record High 
• Deficit Spending = Record High 
• Household Debt = Record High 

Their conclusion: “Fiat currencies are depreciating.” My translation: The US dollar is losing purchasing power, and everything is being affected at once.  

One of the most interesting replies to the post on X was: “My Anxiety = Record High.”

The Dollar Continues to Devalue 

The most recent data through December 2025, with updates just released this week from the Consumer Price Index, reveals the following:

• Approximately $8.00 today (early 2026) is equivalent in purchasing power to $1.00 in 1971.
• This represents a cumulative price increase of about 700% (or seven times higher prices on average). This devaluation has occurred over the past five decades, since leaving the gold standard.
• In other words, the dollar has lost roughly 87.5% of its purchasing power since 1971. [Calculation: Today’s dollar buys only about 12.5% (1/8) of what it could in 1971 → 87.5% loss.]
• The average annual inflation rate over this period has been around 3.85% per year. Remember, inflation rates translate to rapid devaluation of purchasing power. 

To Buy or to Sell?  

Your question and the anxiety you may be experiencing are driven by the tension we all have of being unable to know the future. The Bible makes it clear we cannot know what one day will bring. So we must live one day at a time, obey God’s principles, and put our faith in Him—not money. With that perspective, we can try to discern whether we will enter a period of deflation or continued inflation and make necessary adjustments. 

If the supply of goods begins to exceed the demand for those goods, prices will go down. Often, high prices reduce demand (fewer people can afford to buy), and prices begin to drop. If that dynamic persists over a sustained period, we enter a depression, such as happened in 1929–1933. 

If the supply of money exceeds the available goods, then prices go up, and inflation persists. 

The reality is that it is better to buy assets during a period of deflation and sell assets during a period of inflation. This is the proverbial “buy low, sell high” strategy. Sir John Templeton determined his timing by framing it around emotional sentiment. He said we should buy during times of peak pessimism and sell during times of peak optimism. The problem is always a matter of knowing what period we are actually in. This leads me to Solomon’s wisdom and counsel. 

Stay Diversified 

“Give a portion to seven, or even to eight, for you do not know what disaster may occur on the earth.” (Ecclesiastes 11:2 ESV) 

This is widely seen as the Bible’s clearest endorsement of diversification—spreading investments across multiple ventures so that if one fails (due to unforeseen “disaster”), others may succeed. Modern financial experts often cite this as ancient wisdom for not putting all your eggs in one basket. This equates to no more than 12–15% of your investments in a single asset.

Be Patient

“Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” 

(Proverbs 13:11 ESV) 

Building resources gradually through consistent effort (like compounding in investments) rather than chasing quick riches is an approach that demonstrates wisdom. 

It has been said that fear and greed are the two key drivers of when people buy or sell. However, we must set aside our emotional responses to economic news and keep these two Biblical principles in mind. I would not suggest you make a decision to buy versus a decision to sell. Instead, make a decision to sell some assets and possibly buy others after seeking wise counsel or professional advice. Remain diversified, be cautious, and stay diligent, regardless of what may change in the economy. 

Persistent, Escalating Inflation Dangers 

I don’t foresee a case in which the United States federal government starts to exercise fiscal constraint by curtailing deficit spending, paying down debt, and limiting the printing of money.  Socialist thought is spreading, which means the demand for more social services from national, state, and local budgets is increasing. However, an economic crisis could force austerity measures upon us. 

I said in 2021 that we are effectively practicing “Modern Monetary Theory” (MMT), which is a macroeconomic theory that suggests governments that issue their own currency can spend freely without needing to rely on taxes or borrowing. This ideology advocates that Uncle Sam can print and spend our nation’s way out of any financial problem and that federal debt does not matter. I call it the “Monopoly Money Theory” because it is foolish. Debt does matter. Money supply does matter. When people lose confidence in their currency, a deeper devaluation is likely.  Inflation is like an invisible tax the government passes along to us without our permission! 

Without a significant economic crisis to serve as a wake-up call, be wary of persistent inflation, and continually monitor the potential for escalating inflation if fiscal and monetary policy is not reformed. Grow in wisdom and discernment to know when it is best to sell and when it is best to buy. Avoid overreacting or responding to fear or greed. 

You may benefit from reading my book Seven Gray Swans: Trends That Threaten Our Financial Future. In it, I discuss several economic threats, including MMT, digital currencies, universal basic income, democratic socialism, etc., that we should keep in full view as we navigate a volatile economic environment. 

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on January 16, 2026

Congratulations to our Venezuelan neighbors and the brothers and sisters in Christ who have long prayed for Nicolas Maduro to be removed from office. Witnessing millions of Venezuelans celebrating within the country and in other nations around the world brought me great joy. It was a clear indication of the level of misery and suffering the people have endured under evil, tyrannical rule, which began under Hugo Chavez in 1999. This problem impacts all of us because communist nations, such as China, Russia, and Cuba, are all vying for influence and directional control of our very close neighbor on the other American continent.

A Historical Perspective 

In 1950, Venezuela, with its vast oil reserves (the largest known reserves in the world), had the fourth-highest GDP per capita in the world, passing European nations that were recovering from WWII. Fluctuating oil prices, political turmoil, socialist policies, excessive debt, and money printing led to runaway inflation. In 2018, it is estimated that hyperinflation reached 1,700,000%. Poverty soared to over 90%, and more than eight million citizens had to leave their homeland to look for a means to take care of their families. Anyone over 70 years old has witnessed one of the greatest economic collapses in modern history. The estimated 28 million citizens who remain have suffered extreme hardships, and they need our help. 

A Challenge to Help

To my fellow believers, the door of opportunity is opening for significant ministry to take place, assisting the people in restoring their lives and livelihoods that have been stolen from them through unleashed corrupt and oppressive forces for more than 25 years. While the government is doing its part to restore the rule of law, support ethical leadership, and rebuild the petroleum and mineral-based economy, we, the Body of Christ, must do our part as well. 

If you only watch the news, your perspective will be jaded by pictures of gang members, illegal immigrants, and the fringes of society that have caused the nation to suffer a public relations nightmare. But there is a completely different side to the nation that many likely do not know about. My call to help comes from a personal love for the people in this beautiful nation. Allow me to explain. 

Crown Financial Ministries has had trained leaders (nationals) working inside and through local churches in Venezuela for more than 20 years. We were invited to begin our training programs through a highly educated, upright volunteer who helped us expand tremendously without asking for a dime. He eventually became our full-time staff member. I personally traveled to Venezuela when it was still possible for Americans to safely visit the country during Chavez’s tenure in 2011. 

After the economy collapsed in 2018, we helped relocate our staff member and his family to Mexico; then they legally immigrated to our international headquarters, where he continues to serve in executive leadership, overseeing our outreach to Spanish speakers in the United States as well as in Central and South America. His unique, firsthand perspective is shaped from growing up in a prosperous, cohesive society and watching it crumble from within through the iron-fisted dictatorships of Chavez and Maduro. Their relatives, friends, and network of Crown leaders that remain in Venezuela keep them accurately informed of the reality of what is happening on the ground. 

A Plan to Flourish 

In God’s timing, we hope the nation will become stable and secure enough for foreign missionaries and church and business leaders to enter Venezuela again. Please pray for that day to come sooner rather than later. At Crown, we believe it will take many agencies working in collaboration when the window opens to begin to make a difference in the name of Christ. 

Here’s a list of current priorities from the feedback we are receiving:  

1. Humanitarian Aid – Food is scarce. Distribution channels remain in the hands of corrupt leaders who want to seize power in a leadership vacuum. We need to mobilize relief agencies that can get emergency help to the malnourished children and the vulnerable. 
2. Entrepreneurship and Financial Skills Training – Millions will never be able to enter the formal employment sector, even when the macro economy improves. We need to get training for small businesses to develop quickly, combined with training in financial skills that can jump-start the economy at the lower income levels. This is Crown’s expertise. 
3. Human Trafficking – Unimaginable human trafficking is rampant due to corruption, greed, and scarcity. This problem must be addressed, and restoration ministries need to assist the victims in healing from their trauma. 
4. Restoration of Hope and Values – After decades of Marxist brainwashing, the people need renewed hope and a return of the values that can rebuild the economy on trust, while fighting to eliminate corruption. The Church needs to grow, support pastors, and advance community services as quickly as possible. 

A miracle can rise from the ashes in Venezuela. It has the potential to rewrite history from a once strong nation to a failed nation to a nation restored and fully flourishing again because God’s people did their part for their hurting neighbor. Let’s not look the other way. The solution is not political or economic. The people of Venezuela need the love of God on full display in the weeks, months, and years of rebuilding that lie ahead. 

Are you interested in receiving ministry updates from around the world? Do you want helpful and encouraging tools and tips on financial stewardship? Sign up to receive the Crown Newsletter emails by using the form on the homepage at Crown.org.

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on January 9, 2026. 

Happy New Year! What a great time to establish your spiritual and financial goals for another exciting year ahead. 

The Apostle John wrote, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. . . . And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:1, 14 ESV).

Jesus came to dwell among us! This is a direct reference to the Old Testament tabernacle where God’s glory dwelt. Amazingly, Jesus fulfilled God’s promise to dwell with His people. 

Recognizing Christ’s dwelling with us transforms our belief system. Our perspective on money shifts from my rights as an owner to my responsibilities as God’s steward. 

We align our lives with Biblical financial principles and embrace His purpose for our lives, choosing to wisely manage all He provides. This is the job of a steward, no matter how much or how little we may earn. 

We, as believers, are called to operate under a different financial system than what the world offers. Keeping the following truths at the forefront of our minds and hearts protects us from the world’s temptations for more, bigger, better, faster, etc. Remembering who we are and what we have, because of God’s unmerited grace, helps us appreciate how He meets our needs and the ways He provides in unexpected and sometimes unbelievable ways: 

• We are citizens of Heaven. “For many . . . walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven . . .” (Philippians 3:18–20a ESV).

• We have a purpose. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10 ESV).

• We have an inheritance. “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ” (Colossians 3:23–24 ESV).

• We have future rewards. “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life” (1 Timothy 6:17–19 ESV).
• We give, and it produces thanksgiving. “He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God” (2 Corinthians 9:10–12 ESV).

Your Spiritual and Financial Action Plan

• Memorize and meditate on Scripture.
• Learn to listen to the Holy Spirit.
• Embrace the glory of Christ “tabernacling” within you.
• Create a budget to analyze where money goes.
• Write out financial goals, and post them where you will be reminded.
• Practice joyful frugality to meet your goals.
• Work as unto the Lord.
• Give joyfully and generously. 
• Save, spend, and invest wisely.

A Faithful Heart and Disciplined Hands

New Year’s resolutions often wear off before the end of January. Set some realistic goals that will make a meaningful change to your finances over the course of the next 12 months: 

• Pay off consumer debt.
• Increase emergency savings.
• Increase your monthly giving percentage.
• Consider taking on a side gig to boost your income.

To accomplish any worthwhile goal, it takes a faithful heart and disciplined hands—a faithful heart to honor and obey God as first and paramount at all times and disciplined hands to be consistent as you develop good habits. Say no to what you want today so you can have what you need tomorrow.

Awe and Wonder

His presence is the greatest act of love we can know. Everything in the world pales in comparison. With this in mind, remember to:

• Live your life fully aware of God’s constant presence. 
• Recognize His involvement in your life and the world around you.
• Honor Him as the Owner and Provider of all you have.
• Fully rely on Him for comfort, guidance, and hope. 

Now, get your plans together and start strong. Let us know how we can help you along the way! 

Further Reading

• https://www.crown.org/all-resources/ask-chuck-setting-financial-goals-for-the-new-year-and-how-to-reach-them/
• https://www.crown.org/all-resources/ask-chuck-best-financial-moves-for-the-new-year/
• https://www.crown.org/all-resources/ask-chuck-how-can-i-keep-my-new-years-resolutions/

Crown has many financial resources that can equip and encourage you in your financial stewardship journey. From budget coaching, planning calculators, and articles to podcasts, videos, and courses, let Crown be a source of help and motivation in the New Year.

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on January 2, 2026.

My wife, Ann, provides the research and support for every article we publish on the Christian Post. She is a priceless resource to me and to those of you who enjoy these weekly articles. Like a disciplined soldier or athlete who keeps their body fit, she is vigilant about what she puts into her mind. Today, in our last article of 2025, she shares her thoughts and practices that will help us have a better New Year. I know you will be blessed. 

Think About What You Think About

In the days following Christmas, it’s easy to let travel, fatigue, bills, and more rob us of the joy surrounding the celebration of Christ’s birth. The tyranny of the urgent, for young and old, can steal the peace from our hearts and minds. To avoid letting Satan have his way, we must vigilantly guard what we allow into our minds. Think about what you’re thinking about! 

Remember what the Apostle Paul told the Philippians:

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

(Philippians 4:8 ESV, emphasis mine)

Another way to renew your mind is to contemplate the blessings you have in Christ. To personalize the impact, I reframed Ephesians 1:3–14 (ESV) using “I”, “me”, and “my” instead of “we” and “our.” Read it slowly, focusing on the truth of your real identity: 

Blessed be the God and Father of my Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed me in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose me in him before the foundation of the world, that I should be holy and blameless before him. 

In love he predestined me for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed me in the Beloved. 

In him I have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of my trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon me, in all wisdom and insight making known to me the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in Christ, things in heaven and things on earth in him.

In him I have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will. . .  

In him I also, when I heard the word of truth, the gospel of my salvation, and believed in him, was sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of my inheritance until I acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory. 

Allow God’s Word to saturate your mind at the beginning and end of every day. In addition, here are some practical ways to help avoid the after-Christmas blues and prepare for the New Year ahead: 

• Take care of yourself. Prioritize sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise daily.
• Know your financial limits. Shop only for what you need, and focus on paying off debt. 
• Don’t isolate yourself. We were made for community. 
• Find God in the everyday. Go outside, breathe deeply, and admire the sunrise, sunset, stars, and moon. Christmas is a time of wonder—but so is every other day God gives us. 
• Look for ways to serve others. This gets your mind off yourself and puts things in perspective. You’ll find that others have challenges too.
• Practice hospitality. Make plans for hosting others in the coming weeks. It will dispel the quiet and give you something to look forward to. 
• Practice gratitude. Refuse to feel sorry for yourself. Take every thought captive, and replace pity parties with Truth. Write down and post blessings where you can see them throughout the day (and night). 
• Praise the Lord. He is in control, reigning on high, and blessing us in countless ways. Your gratitude will bring joy and a peace that surpasses understanding. He is your rock and fortress, an ever-present help in times of pain or trouble (Psalm 46:1). 

  

Here are a couple of other resources for further reading:

• How to Steward Your Mind, Body, and Money in the New Year
• Stewardship of the Mind

Thank you, Ann. And thank you to all of you who read our weekly article. May God bless you and give you a wonderful New Year. Please let the Christian Post know you appreciate them for carrying Ask Chuck. 

I’d like to invite you and your family to join a free Crown Bible study on the YouVersion app. Saturate your mind daily with instruction and encouragement from God’s Word in the New Year.

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on December 24, 2025. 

Dear Chuck,

My wife and I earn about $11,000/month combined, but with lots of student loan debt, our money is gone by the end of the month. I’m super frustrated that we are unable to save or get ahead. Something’s always coming up—causing us to overspend. It is depressing to be living paycheck to paycheck. We’ve tried many times but never seem to really make progress. Can you help us get out of this rut? 

Frustrated with Our Finances

Dear Frustrated with Our Finances, 

Yes, I can certainly help point you in the right direction. What immediately comes to mind is that you and your wife are better off than you may realize. 

A Change of Perspective

First, acknowledge that income is not your problem. The median household income in 2024 was $83,730 annually, or around $7,000/month, according to the Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey Annual Social and Economic Supplement. Essentially, you are earning 57% more each month than the middle-income American. 

Next, acknowledge that you need to deal with your student loan debt sooner rather than later. The Bible says that the “borrower is [a] servant to the lender” (Proverbs 22:7 KJV). My guess is that you may both have excessive student loans. Far too many young couples assume that they will take the long and slow approach to paying off those loans. I want to encourage you to make it a top priority to get debt-free. If you have other high-interest debt, use the Debt Avalanche method to prioritize the most expensive (highest interest rate) first.

Good Money Managers 

To be effective managers of all God entrusts to us, we need to be guided by the manual He gave us. The Bible, His revealed, authoritative Word, is filled with financial principles that are for our good; but the freedom they promise cannot be experienced in full unless believed and obeyed, challenging though they may be. 

Rich and poor alike can know the peace of God, who guides, strengthens, and disciplines us to rightly handle His money, as we meditate on His Word. Start by establishing a budget that will give you the ability to reach your financial goals. 

A Spending Plan That Works

Living on a budget requires habitual practice. Distractions may sidetrack you, but with the strength of the Lord and the accountability of a mentor or loving spouse, you can regain focus. Don’t get discouraged, but move forward trusting Paul’s words in 2 Timothy 1:7 (AMP):

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].”

A budget empowers us to reach our financial goals. It helps our money work for us, not the other way around. Rather than limiting our spending, it teaches us how to spend the right way. It is simply a plan to wisely spend the money we have. Since everything we have is a gift from God, we are not the owners. We are the managers of what He’s entrusted to us. A budget is a great tool to make sure we are being faithful. This worksheet can get you started. More resources are available here.  

If you’re planning to spend money, you need to know how much you have, where it needs to go, and how it needs to be allocated. Here are the simple steps to get you started:

• Know your monthly income.
• Know your monthly expenses.
• Create your categories.
• Compare income and expenses.
• Implement the budget.
• Plan, and adjust.

Attack the Student Loan Debt 

Once you get your budget established, commit to paying off your student loan debt (and any other debt) as fast as possible. Reducing the principal will help reduce the overall interest cost of the debt.

• Beware of scammers who promise to consolidate debt.
• Cut expenses, and direct your savings toward paying extra on the debt. Hidden costs like streaming services, eating out, or entertainment should be curtailed.
• Direct any windfalls, bonuses, or tax refunds toward debt repayment.
• Earn extra income with a side gig that is dedicated solely to the debt elimination plan.
• Sell items that you do not need, and apply the money toward debt.

It will take time and discipline, but once you get momentum, you will have the joy of financial freedom and a new way of managing money to reach exciting financial goals.   

Remember, Satan came to “steal and kill and destroy” (John 10:10 NIV). He wants to keep you feeling defeated and trapped in a vicious cycle of working and spending without freedom to give and serve as God intended. Never give up. Renew your mind, and ask the Lord to help you every step of this journey. 

If credit card debt is a financial burden that is also robbing you of joy, consider reaching out to Christian Credit Counselors. They are a trusted partner of Crown and can help you consolidate debt and get on the road to financial freedom.

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on December 19, 2025. 

Dear Chuck,

I hate paying taxes. With the many changes under President Trump, is there anything I should do differently to legally avoid paying more taxes? 

Legal Tax Avoidance  

Dear Legal Tax Avoidance, 

I often do not agree with how tax dollars are used (or wasted), but there are many good reasons to legally pay the taxes that you owe, not the least of which is that Jesus told us to. It is also good stewardship to do your best to avoid overpaying taxes, but my hope is that you are not trying to skirt the law and escape paying what you honestly owe. It is better to seek an “income tax minimization” strategy rather than a “tax avoidance” strategy. 

The following steps can assist you and potentially enable you to lower your federal tax bill.

Year-End Tax Prep

No matter how much we dread the work of doing taxes, prepping for April’s filing can be financially rewarding. However, you need to take action now.  

Organize Documents

• Gather pay stubs, bank and credit card statements, investment account statements, and last year’s tax return.
• Check your Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), and use remaining funds before they expire.

Maximize Tax-Advantaged Contributions

• Retirement Accounts: Contribute to 401(k) or 403(b) by December 31. The limit for 2025 is $23,500 plus $7,500 catch-up contribution for anyone aged 50 or older. $11,250 is allowed for those 60–63 in some employer plans. 
• IRAs: You can contribute to traditional and Roth accounts until the tax-filing deadline (April 15, 2026), but workplace retirement contributions must be made by year-end. 
• HSAs: Try to maximize contributions, especially if you have a high-deductible health plan. Unlike FSAs, unused funds can be used to pay for future qualified medical expenses. Contributions can be made until the tax deadline in April, but if added outside of payroll, you will not get the same tax benefit as contributing through payroll. 
• Qualified Charitable Contributions: Gifts to a qualified charity by December 31 will be tax-deductible should you qualify for itemization on your 2025 federal tax return. 

Review Deductions and Credits

• Itemized Deductions: For 2025, married couples have a standard deduction of $31,500. The amount for single filers is $15,750. Review your medical expenses, home mortgage interest, state and local taxes, and theft and casualty losses due to a federally declared disaster.
• Tax Rules: New tax rules may impact your giving strategy. Consider bunching donations into a single year if itemized deductions are below the level of the standard deduction. Maximize your tax benefits with charitable contributions that support your church, para-church organizations, and reputable, deserving nonprofits. You can donate highly appreciated long-term assets to avoid tax on the gained income. Read about estate tax and lifetime gifting strategies here. 
• Tax Credits: Check eligibility for the Child Tax Credit or the Earned Income Tax Credit.
• AMT: Be aware of the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) rules if you are a high-income earner. 

Education Breaks

• College: Trim college costs with qualified educational expenses. You might want to consider prepaying the first semester of 2026 this year if you need the deduction this year. 
• 529s: Some states may recognize contributions made to a 529 college savings account. 

Plan for Investment Income

• Tax-Loss Harvesting: Sell losing investments to offset gains and reduce taxable income. Be aware of the wash sale rule. 
• Roth Conversions: It may be beneficial for you to convert a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA for future tax-free withdrawals and no required minimum distributions. However, conversion generates a tax bill. So it may be worth planning for the future. This conversion calculator may prove helpful. If 2026 has market volatility, converting when stock prices drop means you can convert more shares at a lower price.  

Defer Income

• Those who freelance or have gig income can limit taxable income this year by delaying billing for services until after January 1st. Of course, that will increase taxable income for 2026. If you expect to be in a higher tax bracket next year, do not defer income. Do your research, or seek the help of a professional to help with the timing of this step.

Avoid the “Kiddie Tax” 

• This tax was created to prevent families from shifting taxable investment income from the parents’ high tax bracket to a child’s low tax bracket.

Remember Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)

• Starting at age 73, withdrawals are required from traditional IRAs and 401(k) accounts, even if income is not needed. These strategies may reduce taxes on that income. 

Schedule a Meeting with a Tax Advisor

• If your tax situation is complex, seek the help of a professional to maximize deductions and credits. 

Pay to Caesar What Is Caesar’s 

The Bible makes clear that paying taxes is a responsibility of a nation’s citizens. When the Pharisees approached Jesus with a question about paying taxes, they hoped to trip him up. Upon hearing his answer, however, they marveled and went away. 

“‘Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?’ But Jesus, aware of their malice, said,

‘Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? Show me the coin for the tax.’

And they brought him a denarius.

And Jesus said to them, ‘Whose likeness and inscription is this?’

They said, ‘Caesar’s.’ Then he said to them, 

‘Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’”

Matthew 22:17–21 (ESV)

Jesus is asking us for far more than the coins collected by Caesar; He is asking for our hearts. When we give Him our hearts, we don’t have to fear the demands that Caesar may place upon us because we belong to the Everlasting God. So pay the taxes you owe, and remember, no matter how much you do not like it, we have better and lasting treasures coming when we give our hearts to Christ. 

Additional Resources

• Year-End Tax Planning by Kiplinger
• Financial Framework for the Year Ahead

Do you want more tools and tips on financial stewardship? Are you interested in receiving encouraging ministry updates from around the world? Sign up to receive the Crown Newsletter emails by using the form on the homepage at Crown.org.

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on December 12, 2025.