Dear Chuck,
I love shopping the Black Friday deals with my friends—it’s a fun tradition for me. My husband says it’s just a marketing gimmick, and I’ll end up spending more money. What do you and your wife do?
Black Friday Shopper
Dear Black Friday Shopper,
My wife, Ann, who helps me with research and insights into every Ask Chuck column, does most of our Christmas shopping. She is not a Black Friday shopper because she finds deals all year round and sees through the hype of the so-called promos this time of year. She offers her insights in our response to your question.
What Is Black Friday?
Black Friday falls on November 28th this year. The “deals” go from Thanksgiving evening through Sunday evening and are followed by Cyber Monday. They have become the unofficial start to the holiday shopping season. The name originated back in the 1960s, identifying the time of year when retailers’ books went from red to black—that point in time when they would begin to actually profit from sales. More and more stores recognized the value of increased sales volume with the accompanying foot traffic. It has evolved into a shopping phenomenon.
Today, many companies offer sale prices before these days. Just be aware of price inflation leading up to Black Friday, making discounts deceptive. Recognize emotional marketing that traps consumers into buying unneeded or unplanned items, like “once in a lifetime,” “doorbusters,” and “limited time offer.” I like to remember that nothing is truly scarce or worth pushing and shoving to get.
Overspending Is Common
According to the National Retail Federation, 197 million shoppers participated in the five days of Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales in 2024. They spent an average of $235 on holiday gifts, including clothing, accessories, toys, gift cards, food, candy, personal care, and beauty items. A survey conducted by Experian found that 63% admitted spending too much during the holidays. 56% felt stressed about their finances during the holiday season. There’s a graph on this website that shows how people overspent. Nearly half of the consumers felt obligated to spend more than they could afford on holiday gifts, making it hard to enjoy the season. A third worried that spending would negatively affect their credit.
Pros of Black Friday
Cons of Black Friday
Thankfully, there is a growing trend toward conscious consumerism, leading many people to prioritize sustainability and ethical considerations over discounted prices.
Beware of Materialism
John Bunyan referred to the danger of materialism at Vanity Fair in his classic work Pilgrim’s Progress. Christian and Faithful were distracted by all the temptations and then suffered for refusing to participate in the folly.
Charles Dickens visited America several times and was dismayed at the obsession with material possessions and the lack of genuine human connection.
We should prayerfully discern if and how we have fallen for the world’s ways. We can avoid it by being grateful. We can guard our hearts (and wallets) by limiting media consumption and time with people who encourage us to spend too much money—knowing and avoiding our triggers. We can declutter and donate what we do not need while passing valuables on to loved ones.
Celebrate Well
Spend time with your family this Thanksgiving! Enjoy this season free of stress. Let the true meaning of Christmas reign in your heart and home. May it overflow to your neighbors and co-workers.
I am all about giving! Just know why and for what you are shopping. Ask family what they want for Christmas. In the years when our kids all get together, we use an online tool to draw names and enter our gift requests. A spending limit allows all to enjoy without the stress of money.
I challenge you to think less about what you want and more about what others need. Ask God how you can help the poor, needy, widows, orphans, prisoners, and persecuted church.
“And he said to them, ‘Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.’”
Luke 12:15 (ESV)
Here’s an additional resource you may find helpful:
10 Ways to Avoid Overspending on the Biggest Shopping Day of the Year
If credit card debt is a financial woe, Black Friday shopping can lead to even more stress. Consider reaching out to Christian Credit Counselors. They are a trusted partner of Crown and are able to help consolidate debt and get you on the road to financial freedom.
This article was originally published on The Christian Post on November 7, 2025.
Dear Chuck,
I finally graduated with my master’s degree and would love to buy a new car. My spouse and I do not agree; she wants me to keep driving my 2017 clunker and pay off the student loan debt. Who is right?
Ready for My Dream Car
Dear Ready for My Dream Car,
So glad you asked. Let me turn this around and ask you some questions before I reply. Let’s start with a few probes so you and your spouse can get on the same page.
Context of Your Financial Picture
When a Dream Car Becomes a Nightmare
I have written previously about how people are getting in over their heads with massive car payments. With rapid depreciation before the new car smell even wears off, young couples often regret their choice to buy new. For transparency, my wife and I can afford to buy new cars without debt, but we choose to drive what some may consider clunkers. Last year, I upgraded to a 2018. Her vehicle is a 2016. We are happy to live without a new car.
If driving a new car raises your debt load, consider whether that is more important than driving your current car and experiencing financial freedom.
It has become an accepted way of life in America to have a mortgage, car payments, and consumer debt. Unfortunately, many people sleepwalk into this scenario without thinking through the long-term ramifications.
Some are asking if owning a car has become a luxury. Is owning one or two even necessary? For couples or families with multiple vehicles, consider whether having two or more is really necessary. Selling an unnecessary vehicle can provide margin in several ways, including paying down debt, saving for a home, or paying off student loans.
Young couples need to analyze their priorities and take a serious look at personal debt in general. If possible, driving dependable, older model vehicles is a way to avoid paying interest on value-depreciating new ones. A recent article at BankRate.com found that Americans pay $575 per month in hidden ownership costs. That is almost $7,000 per year. That could go a long way to paying off student loans or other debts early in life!
Many couples, if willing to get beyond the stigma, can figure out how to get by with one car, especially if they live in an area where it is possible to walk, bike, carpool, or use public transportation. Check out the following pros of taking your wife’s advice.
Pros
Questions to Discuss With Your Spouse
Delayed Gratification Is Always Wise
Just because you can afford to replace a car doesn’t mean you need to. We often fail to give thanks for the way a car has lasted because we’re more concerned with how it looks or how we are perceived by others. In what other ways could that money be used? What will you have to give up to own it? How about the joy of making your spouse happy; why push for what may divide you?
Buying new may be best in certain situations. But learning to discern between wants and needs is important for financial wellness. Above all else, staying united in your marriage pays long-term dividends!
“Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread,
and your labor for that which does not satisfy?”
– Isaiah 55:2 (ESV)
Before you make a final decision, here are some important articles that will give you more perspective:
Crown’s Family & Finances Podcast is a great resource for those who want to dive deeper together. Chuck and Ann Bentley discuss lessons they’ve learned and offer wisdom in the areas of marriage and family related to finances.
This article was originally published on The Christian Post on October 31, 2025.
Dear Chuck,
How can I have Christmas without putting it all on a credit card? January bills have stressed me out for three years in a row, and I’m resolved to avoid that this year!
Christmas Without Debt
Dear Christmas Without Debt,
The “Holiday Debt Hangover” is a cycle that can and should be broken. It is a vicious trap for you and millions of Americans. You don’t have a lot of time, so let’s look at some drastic measures.
Try a Spending Freeze
Ever heard of “No-Spend September”? It doesn’t matter that the month has already passed! Any time during the year works to help you reset your spending to save for a specific goal. Here’s how it works: pay your regular bills, but cut out all discretionary spending. In other words, cover your needs, and curb your wants. You may be shocked at how much money you can save by carefully freezing all unnecessary spending.
Kiplinger reports that a one-month freeze is eye-opening. It is not easy, and you can burn out unless you modify spending around certain life situations. So aim for flexibility in your effort to reach the goal you set. Keeping track of how much you save can motivate you to steward your finances with care in the months following. Besides being financially beneficial, you will be rewarded emotionally. If you continue spending with care, you will develop habits that can benefit you for a lifetime.
Before you start, ask God for wisdom and self-control. Ask Him to help you be content with what you have and depend on Him more during this time. Look for ways to give thanks for all that you have and all you can do, rather than complain about what you can’t do.
Do
Don’t
Generate Extra Cash
Try selling personal items you no longer need. Do you have a storage unit that can be emptied with a weekend sale? What about listing some items on Facebook Marketplace that you no longer need? Or take on extra work. Seasonal jobs are in demand during the holidays.
Meanwhile
Develop a budget for Christmas shopping that helps you avoid spontaneous decisions. Remember that you are a steward (manager) of all God provides. You have been entrusted to wisely spend what you earn. The world has countless ways to get us to part with money, and our enemy enjoys putting Christians in financial bondage. The more interest we pay on debt, the less we can give to the Kingdom.
Also, we don’t need to spend like the world spends at Christmas. Materialism is a trap. It hurts our children and our marriages and distracts from the true meaning of the season. Instead of getting caught up in the pressure of the season, sit back and think through what really matters.
Research shows that experiences have more of an impact than gifts. Consider a card for each of your loved ones that promises to take them to their favorite destination or experience in the coming year. Discover ways you can spend time with friends and family and give what matters most: love expressed with quality time together.
Scripture
“So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”
1 Corinthians 13:13 (ESV)
Remember the poor, the lonely, and the isolated. Invite them into your Christmas plans. I can’t help but think of Dickens’ Christmas Carol. After experiencing three vivid dreams, Scrooge woke up a changed man. The realization that he was still alive filled him with overwhelming joy and led him to bless the Cratchit family and others abundantly. It costs nothing to spread Christ’s love and joy during this celebration of our Savior.
May each of us experience that kind of joy in the days ahead!
Here is some extra reading for more ideas on how to steward resources during the holidays:
If credit card debt is a financial burden for you in general, consider reaching out to Christian Credit Counselors. They are a trusted partner of Crown and are able to help consolidate debt and get you on the road to financial freedom.
This article was originally published on The Christian Post on October 24, 2025.
Dear Chuck,
I’m a 28-year-old professional female, a committed Christian, and single. Although I date occasionally, I am in a waiting pattern for the right man. So many of my friends say I am too picky, but I want to marry a man who knows how to manage money well so we have financial security. What is the best way to know if they are good with money?
Looking for Mr. Right
Dear Looking for Mr. Right,
While you have a great general idea, I am so grateful that Ann and I got married in spite of my financial shortcomings. We married in December 1979, during our senior year in college. It took us 21 years to get on the same page financially. We had our share of struggles over money, but our commitment to the Lord and one another enabled us to stand against the storms.
I will give you some guidelines, but remember this: the world will use anything to subvert marriage and strong families. Our enemy definitely wants to prevent Christians from marrying, having children, and filling the world with more Christ followers!
The Capstone Model vs. the Cornerstone Model
Like you, many couples want to have their finances in order and certain goals met before getting married. A recent article in the Wall Street Journal addresses how marriage seems to increasingly be for the “affluent:”
The idea of both parties waiting to build a career or wealth before tying the knot is called a capstone model of marriage. It has replaced the “cornerstone” approach, where couples married in their early 20s and worked together to meet financial goals: buying a home, building a nest egg, and progressing in careers. Brad Wilcox, sociology professor at the U of VA and fellow at the Institute for Family Studies, says, “You achieve a measure of success educationally and professionally before you put a ring on it.” It’s what’s driving up the age at which people are first married or postponing it all together [sic].
Kasen Stephensen at the Institute for Family Studies writes that the capstone model comes with two major risks:
He cites a study showing that merging bank accounts actually increases marital satisfaction. Couples fight less about money and are more satisfied with how finances are handled.
“By seeking marriage earlier rather than postponing it indefinitely, you’re creating the opportunity to dance through life’s challenges and triumphs with someone who loves you, supports you, and helps you grow.”
Marriage Is Good for Women
A recent survey of American women conducted by the Institute for Family Studies and YouGov concluded that marriage and children are both good things. They found that married women are happier than unmarried women, and married mothers are the happiest of all. They report:
Marriage Is Good for Men
Another recent article explains why marriage is good for men. The data cited points to married men as:
Marriage and Charlie Kirk
Charlie wrote on Instagram, “Having a family will change your life in the best of ways, so get married and have kids. You won’t regret it.” He was a powerful influencer, and I hope many young adults listen to his advice.
Look for These Qualities in a Future Spouse
A foundation based on Deuteronomy 6:5 is necessary in marriage: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.” Cement it with Paul’s words in Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” In a future spouse, look for someone who:
“Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’”
Hebrews 13:4–5 (ESV)
“He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.”
Proverbs 18:22 (ESV)
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.”
Psalm 127:3 (ESV)
It is time young adults recognize the lies because statistics verify the great benefits of marriage. They must recognize the world’s idols they have fallen for and repent: sex outside of marriage (sexual sin in general), financial “success,” and the freedom to pursue self-interests without the “burden” of a family.
I hope pastors and parents will counter the lies of the world by modeling the beauty of marriage. Fertility rates are dropping. Young adults cannot assume they will have a lot of money and a family if they postpone marriage for years and years.
Financial security is a worthwhile goal, but don’t let it stop you from finding God’s best for your future spouse! Faith and character are more important than money. With those two traits, a couple can learn to handle money wisely while married.
Here are some extra articles that may be helpful:
Crown has many beneficial resources regarding family and finances. From podcasts and videos to courses and calculators, let Crown encourage you as you pursue a godly marriage.
This article was originally published on The Christian Post on October 17, 2025
Dear Chuck,
I know that Christ commands us to give, but I am struggling to justify it while trying to provide my family with all they want. I feel that the world is selfish, and I am stuck in it.
Stuck in a Selfish World
Dear Stuck in a Selfish World,
Thank you for your honesty. In many ways, we are all stuck in a selfish world, but we do not have to conform to it.
Many sincere Christians struggle with giving because the “wants” in our lives always eat away at the money we could give. As a result, we may think we can’t afford to give.
We Are All Generous
I like to say it this way: we are all generous. The question is, will we be generous only toward ourselves or toward God and others? You see, when our “wants” are in control of our spending, we tend to be perpetually stuck in generously spending on ourselves.
Giving overcomes the control that the world has on our lives and demonstrates the degree of our love for Christ. Fear overrules if we become too earthly-minded. God wants us to trust Him and to depend on His provision, even—and perhaps especially—if it defies logic. He can provide in ways beyond our comprehension, causing us to respond in gratitude, knowing He sees the sacrifices we make. Consider this promise to those willing to overcome the desire to spend everything we have on ourselves:
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency
in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. As it is written,
“He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor;
His righteousness endures forever.”
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.
2 Corinthians 9:8–10 (ESV)
God Promises to Repay Us
God does not promise to make us rich on Earth like the false prosperity gospel teaches. Sometimes, He does reward us financially. Other times, He refreshes us spiritually or emotionally. He also gives in ways we do not immediately recognize, for example:
Proper Motivations to Give
Biblical generosity is not a tax or law but rather a principle that God says is good for us. We must give with a proper heart attitude. Here are some key concepts and verses to guide you:
How to Give
Some Rewards of Giving
Give Better
Since God owns everything, ask yourself, “How much of God’s money should I spend on myself?” instead of, “How much of my money should I give to God?” This will transform your attitude and help you take giving seriously.
Check your spending. Are there areas where you can cut back—things you don’t really need? Constantly giving in to wants robs us (and our children) of learning to be content. It ruins the joy of occasional splurges, and luxuries can become expectations. Our flesh is never fully satisfied, so we must take control. Read and meditate on Psalm 112.
Getting Unstuck in a Selfish World
How we manage money, according to the Bible, will impact eternal rewards, which will not compare to earthly comforts. Take hold of that which is truly life by wisely stewarding whatever God entrusts to you. It helps to develop a lifestyle of giving more than just money. You can be generous with words of encouragement, spiritual gifts, time, talents, possessions, wisdom, and experience. One day, each of us will stand before the Lord to give an account. Generosity is for our good but, more importantly, for His glory!
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)
Here are some extra resources if you want to read more:
If credit card debt is holding you back from being generous, consider reaching out to Christian Credit Counselors. They are a trusted partner of Crown and a valuable resource to help you get on the road to financial freedom.
This article was originally published on The Christian Post on October 10, 2025.
The assassination of Charlie Kirk is an inflection point in American history. He is the first non-public office holder assassinated in the United States since Martin Luther King Jr. Ironically, both were public figures who called for nonviolence. Just as the senseless death of Dr. King sparked the transformational Civil Rights movement, it is certain that much good will come from the senseless killing of Charlie Kirk. But we must resist the temptation to react with anger, bitterness, name-calling, and violence.
I propose that those of us who name the name of Christ learn to fight for peace using genuine love as our weapon without compromising truth or justice.
Grace for Enemies
The polarization between those who loved Charlie Kirk and those who loathed him has made the once invisible war of worldviews now visible. We can see it with our own eyes. It is visceral and disturbing. Both sides see the other as the fascists, the haters, and the deceived. This is a very dangerous cultural moment. We are in an “us-versus-them” frame of mind. We are not seeing people on the other side of the divide. Ideology and language are painting each other in broad strokes, leading to rejection and condemnation.
Our faith informs us that the most potent and powerful way to push back darkness is with sincere love and truth. This does not mean we accept evil. Sin has consequences. But it does mean we are not free to fight evil with evil. As many have noted, if we still practiced the law of “eye for an eye,” the entire world would be blind. None of us is without sin, and we must show grace to the sinner and allow justice from our legal system to do its work as needed.
“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you.”
– Luke 6:27 (NIV)
Lessons from Rwanda
The assassination and funeral service of Charlie Kirk all happened while I was traveling in Africa—interestingly, in Rwanda, the nation with the painful past of the worst genocide in modern history. Most of the people I talked with had never heard of Charlie Kirk, but this tragedy garnered many questions about the polarization and violent outbreaks we are experiencing in America. Today, I pulled from lessons learned in Rwanda and from Scripture that I believe can help our nation heal from the extreme political, cultural, and spiritual divide we find ourselves in now.
Break the “Us-Versus-Them” Paradigm
An oversimplification of the roots of the genocide that saw over a million people slaughtered in 100 days by their neighbors, sometimes their former friends, was an “us-versus-them” divide. The tribal majority harbored hatred toward the tribal minority and often referred to them as “cockroaches.” The hatred and rejection were fomented by the media and political rancor until there was an organized, full-scale assault on innocent, unarmed men, women, and children. The Church failed to bring peace and, in some cases, was complicit in the hellish evil that was unleashed. In so many ways, we are witnessing similar “pre-genocide” conditions of hatred and division in our nation.
Celebrate Unity, Not Diversity
Most shocking to many visitors to Rwanda is that it is now united and one of the safest nations on Earth. Instead of celebrating their diversity, they now identify only as “Rwandan.” Tribal identification has been outlawed as it only led to more strife and bitterness. After massive efforts to bring the key perpetrators to justice, community tribunals were formed for forgiveness and reconciliation so that neighbors could return to being neighbors. It took genuine love to restore what had been generationally devastating to the victims. The grotesque, sickening result of the anger of “man versus man” left a lasting scar in the souls of the people—all the people. Once the horror was brought to an end, the result was a revulsion to the heartless carnage of violence that cannot be forgotten.
Avoid the Horror of Unconstrained Evil
Evil reared its ugly head and spilled out into the streets. Yet today, the Rwandans look back in regret, horror, and lament over how they got to such a senseless, unimaginable place of unconstrained violence. A visit to the Genocide Museum is a sobering reminder that now is the time to rise up and fight for peace.
“For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.”
Galatians 5:14–15 (NIV)
Love and Acceptance Are Powerful Forces
Many of those spewing hatred today are the lonely, disenfranchised, outcast, or rejected. I grew up with an awareness that a wounded dog would lash out at those who tried to offer help. We should not be surprised that many of those carrying out violent acts today respond in a similar way. These are people suffering on the inside who want to live in a world where they are understood and accepted.
When I encounter people like this, I seek to understand their fear, pain, or perspective. Many people held captive to lies are operating from a place of deep hurt. Rather than mock or condemn, ask if you can pray for or with them. It shows you care, and God may open their hearts.
So we must become fighters, not for vengeance, power, or control but for peace. This does not mean we accept sin or evil. But it does mean we don’t fight the way Satan fights, with lies, deception, division, and destruction. If we don’t participate in the cultural divide but rather love our neighbors, we will do more for our country than those casting stones.
Are you interested in receiving encouraging ministry updates from around the world? Do you want 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 at The Christian Post on October 3, 2025.
Ask Chuck
Dealing with Financial Failure
Dear Chuck,
I have made so many mistakes with money. We are not struggling from month to month, but I constantly feel like a financial failure. My wife thinks I need God’s help.
Feeling Like a Financial Failure
Dear Feeling Like a Financial Failure,
I can identify! I have made just about every mistake that can be made with money, so I have lots of compassion for those who are struggling. Men, in particular, tend to place their identity in their work or finances.
The important shift is to learn from failure and grow from it instead of allowing Satan to constantly remind you of what happened in the past.
In my life, turning to God for help changed everything. I realized that this is not my home and that my goal of storing up treasures on Earth was foolish.
Think about the night Jesus was betrayed. In Luke 22:31–34 (NIV), Jesus told Simon Peter, “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.”
But he replied, “Lord, I’m ready to go with you to prison and to death.”
Jesus answered, “I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me.”
Peter’s Redemption from Failure
Peter’s denial is an important reminder in the midst of financial failure. Pride, fear, uncertainty, and doubt can lead us to act in ways contrary to our faith. Rather than isolate ourselves, like Peter in the courtyard, we need the strength and prayers of our Christian community. We need the counsel of wise stewards. If married, we need to seek and consider the advice of our spouse. They tend to know our strengths and weaknesses, so God often uses them for our protection.
Peter’s overconfidence prevented him from taking Jesus’s warning seriously. We, too, can neglect the financial principles given in Scripture by overconfidently trusting our own judgment or abilities. We often prioritize what the world says over the Word of God. Peter’s denial was rooted in the fear of his own life. Likewise, fearing the loss of money, business, or social status can lead us to act in ways that we’ll later regret. However, it was Peter who overcame the shame of his denials and went on to make a world-changing impact for God’s Kingdom and glory.
Don’t Hang on to Your Mistakes
Hanging on to past mistakes, becoming overconfident, or trying to prove ourselves can lead to impulsive financial decisions and unwise choices. Expect the rooster to crow if we fail to pray, depend on God, or seek wise counsel.
Mistakes are painful. Thankfully, God can redeem them.
Remember that He’s always there, working in ways we cannot see. We must admit our failure, take responsibility, and then take proper steps to rebuild trust within our family, our business, and our community. Most importantly, when we confess our sin and turn to the Lord with a heart ready to obey Him at all costs, our relationship with Him is restored.
Ask the Lord to redeem what you have lost. His power can lead to unexpected blessings in all areas of life, including finances. It may not come in the form of dollars but in peace of mind or restored relationships. Humbly apologize, and seek forgiveness from those you have unintentionally hurt. Do so without expectation. Then trust in the Lord to work as only He can.
Pray for spiritual strength, as Paul did for the Ephesians (3:14–20 ESV):
“For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”
The Lord will guide you, restore you, and show you His faithfulness as you steward whatever He provides.
Crown has many resources to help you and your wife get united in the way you manage your finances. The Family & Finance section on the website has several free tools available, including a study guide that you and your wife can do together.
This article was originally published on The Christian Post on September 25, 2025.
Dear Chuck,
Finances are a real headache for my husband and me. We have tried lots of programs but never stick with them. How can we get back on our feet again?
Financial Headaches
Dear Financial Headaches,
Financial headaches are far worse than the pain of getting on a plan. Anyone can learn to manage money wisely so long as they have a simple method.
Set Realistic Goals
Many people think they have goals—but really don’t. The key to successful goal-setting is to identify realistic long-term and short-term goals that are simple and measurable. One of the most noble characteristics of ants is the way they plan for the future by storing food in good times for use when times are bad. It’s an example we can all follow. The Proverbs 31 woman is an example of someone whose planning is key to good stewardship. We’re told she worked hard, spent wisely, and planned ahead.
God’s Word advises us to be planners for reasons beyond building a savings account or avoiding indulgence. When we plan, we experience more margin and freedom in our lives, which means we are freed to further God’s work here on Earth.
Rather than hoping to “get rich” or “live like no one else, so someday you can live like no one else,” be specific. For example: set aside a specific percentage of your income over the next six months to establish an emergency fund. Or apply a certain number of dollars to consumer debt with the goal of paying it off in a specific timeframe. Determine what you can set aside each month; then start paying yourself. Post your goals where you can see them, and celebrate milestones!
Keep It Simple
Road maps are extremely useful because they show where you are, where you want to go, and the path to get there. If you don’t like the term “budget,” you can call your plan a “financial road map” so you know where you are financially. You do not know how much you can save, apply to debt, or invest if you don’t know your current and upcoming expenses. Here are some simple steps:
Short-term goals involve your current lifestyle: debt reduction, saving, giving, investing, etc.
Long-term goals are accomplished over a number of years: funding education, saving for retirement, giving an inheritance, etc.
Control Spending
Learn to faithfully handle the money God has put under your authority. (Luke 16:11) Acknowledge that everything is His; then establish self-discipline, and put all assets and spending under His control. Determine how much you need to spend in each category of your road map (budget), and stick to it. Settle the question of how much is enough, or you’ll never be satisfied with your lifestyle. Be thankful for what you have, and learn to be content. (Philippians 4:10–12)
Debt Management
The Bible doesn’t prohibit borrowing, but it does establish specific limits. If we follow God’s principles, we must not take on debt that we have no reasonable expectation of repaying. Spouses need to discuss with one another, and singles need to talk with a trusted adviser about their debt tolerance levels. Know what the Bible says about debt. If your current debt level exceeds your comfort level, pray about finding ways to reduce it. These articles may help:
Saving
One important short-term goal is deciding how much to save. Initially, the amount is not as important as your diligence in saving. Every dollar saved today is a dollar available for tomorrow’s needs.
Set specific guidelines for your family. With discipline, savings can give freedom and peace of mind when you encounter inevitable emergencies. Savings allow you to pay credit card balances at the end of the month and take advantage of sales.
Try to maintain a minimum of three months’ income in an emergency savings account. If you have fluctuating incomes, the amount should be six months. Save something every month because over time, it adds up. Aim to allocate 5% of your income, after paying taxes and tithes, to savings. If you can do more, great! You may have lots of catching up to do—don’t be discouraged. Just start!
Giving
Perhaps the most important short-term goal for Christians is how much to give to God’s work. If giving habits aren’t established as a result of spiritual conviction, giving often declines when more money becomes available. Setting goals will help control impulsive or emotional overreaction. Unless giving to the Lord is planned, money may not be available once all other bills are paid.
Planning is necessary and scriptural. But don’t ever lose the spontaneity that comes with serving God. If He reveals a need, even though you may already have given your planned amount, give as He prompts you. As Luke 6:38 says, “Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”
Call it what you want: a financial plan, budget, or financial road map. It takes time, but it is a necessary ingredient to faithful stewardship. It shows that you know where you are, where God wants you to go, and the steps for getting there. Review it on a regular basis, adjust as needed, and celebrate when goals are achieved!
My prayer is that your headaches go away permanently!
Here are some more resources:
If credit card debt is adding to your financial headaches, consider reaching out to Christian Credit Counselors, a trusted partner of Crown. They are a valuable resource to help get you on the road to financial freedom.
This article was originally published on The Christian Post on September 19, 2025.
Dear Chuck,
Our son graduated from college in May and has not found a job in his desired career field yet. We think we will give him a few more months and then expect him to start paying his own bills. Are we being too hard on him?
Parenting an Unemployed College Grad
Dear Parenting an Unemployed College Grad,
It is hard to say if you are being hard on him or not without more information. However, my initial reaction is that you are doing your son a favor by setting a deadline and expecting him to take charge of his financial responsibilities. In fact, considering that he is waiting on an opening in his “desired career field,” I would begin expecting him to pay the bills now, whether he is working in a career he likes or not.
Most young people can find some sort of gig, part-time or full-time, that will pay the bills at this point in their lives. As an employer, I would view an application from a recent graduate who is working in any kind of job—while waiting for the best opportunity to open—as a major positive.
I believe in the old saying, “The man may build the house, but the house is also building the man.” Work experience is priceless training for any career. It teaches us to hold down responsibility, get along with people, and value our time, while developing our character. I have read studies that correlate early work experience outside the home with future career success.
Adam was created to work. Genesis 2:15 shows us that he was given a job tending God’s garden before he sinned. Thus, work is not a curse but a way to fulfill our life purpose. For many, working to pay our own way is a form of dignity that cannot be gained in any other way. Consider a recent article about a phenomenon in China where unemployed young people fake like they have a job.
Pretend Jobs
Unemployed young adults in China are paying companies so they can pretend to work for them. The BBC News Chinese, Hong Kong reports that youth unemployment is high, more than 14%. So these young people, many of whom are highly educated, are joining others to pretend they are working—yes, to fake it.
Companies are popping up in major cities across China that function like true offices, equipped with computers, internet access, meeting rooms, and tea rooms. A 30-year-old owner of the Pretend to Work Company says, “What I’m selling isn’t a workstation, but the dignity of not being a useless person.”
He understands how depressing and powerless unemployment can be because he had to close a retail business during the COVID pandemic. He started this company, and within a month, the workstations were full. 40% are recent university grads; the others are freelancers. The average age is 30. He sees the business as a social experiment. “It uses lies to maintain respectability, but it allows some people to find the truth… Only by helping them transform their fake workplace into a real starting point can this social experiment truly live up to its promise.”
While paying $4 to $7 daily to pretend, these young people benefit by being in community. They become friends, look for jobs together, improve skills (like AI), chat, play games, and often have dinner together. Some hope to improve their self-discipline. Others pay the daily fee to deceive their family or to receive a diploma.
One young lady graduated from a university that requires students to sign an employment contract or provide proof of internship. She rented a workstation and took photos to deceptively gain a diploma. She is not interning, although she has written online novels while paying for space.
Read more here: BBC.com, EconomicTimes.IndiaTimes.com.
A Better Way
Set a date that your son will begin paying for his bills. Give him notice that he needs to find any kind of employment that will put some money in his pocket, such as driving for Uber, working at a quick-service restaurant, or freelancing at something he is good at. In the meantime, use a focused networking effort to try to land an interview for the dream job. He is much more likely to be motivated to look for a better job when he does not like the one he has. Also, getting a personal interview will enhance his chances of being hired. Use the part-time or temporary gig as a way to show determination and grit.
Of course, do all of this in love. Setting high standards should not be considered punishment or being too hard on your child. In fact, it is a very high form of love to assist him to get where God wants Him to be.
Crown’s Career Direct Assessment has helped thousands of professionals and recent graduates discover work they love. By looking at personality, interests, skills, and values, it can help with finding meaningful work and increasing job satisfaction.
This article was originally published on The Christian Post on September 14, 2025.
Dear Chuck,
My parents are retired and have a very low interest rate on a small amount of remaining mortgage. They told me they want to sell their home and rent, thinking they will save money. I am gathering information to help them. Would you suggest they rent or keep owning their home?
Retired: Rent or Buy?
Dear Retired: Rent or Buy?
It depends. I don’t have the full financial picture of your parents, so I don’t want to give advice based on false assumptions. Let me disclose a few assumptions from your question:
Renters by Choice
Many people 55 and over desire financial flexibility. Rather than having the majority of their money tied up in a home, they prefer to rent. They realize a home is not the most liquid asset.
Some no longer want the responsibility of maintenance and repairs. Losing a spouse, physical limitations, and the desire for a more flexible lifestyle can play into the decision. I call this “renters by choice.”
Prepare for a Deeper Conversation
Try talking with your parents about their financial situation, desired lifestyle, and long-term goals. Have they personally sought wise counsel—especially from those who are older than themselves? Are they seeking financial margin due to consumer debt or medical expenses? Do they have a lien against the property? What is the driving force?
If the home is paid for, how do they plan to use the equity? Will they have to pay capital gains taxes? Have they considered downsizing to a low-maintenance housing option, in which case HOA fees must be considered. My wife thought she found an incredible deal on a condo until we discovered the fees were outrageous. If they want to rent, can they support that lifestyle indefinitely? Are they healthy? What is their life expectancy? What sources of income do they have or expect?
Growing Trend
FoxBusiness.com reports that renting is a growing trend among those 55 and older. Rising property taxes, insurance, and repair costs are major factors. People want a simpler life so they can pursue traveling and hobbies. Some find it lonely (and expensive) to occupy the big homes in which they raised their children. The widowed, single, or divorced sometimes desire a community that their home or neighborhood may not provide.
Insurance Is Up
Consumer Federation of America: Between 2021 and 2024, property insurance premiums rose an average of $648 a year. Premiums increased in 95% of U.S. ZIP codes, with a third increasing more than 30%.
Taxes Are Up
National Association of Realtors: Taxes have increased across all states. The national median annual real estate tax surged by 23% between 2019 and 2023. It represents 4% of the median annual household income. Twenty-seven states recorded hikes of 20% or more, with Florida experiencing the largest rise, followed by Wyoming, Louisiana, Indiana, Georgia, and Utah.
The following information is for anyone, regardless of age, when deciding to purchase or rent a home.
Pros to Buying/Owning
Pros to Renting
Cons to Buying/Owning
Cons to Renting
Whether buying or renting, housing costs should not exceed 30% of one’s monthly income. Analyze objectively, not emotionally, and compare apples to apples. Costs are in the details, like age of structure, square feet, lot size, location, etc. Most experts advise against buying if the owners do not plan to be there for a number of years to recoup the costs. My rule of thumb is to plan to stay at least five years.
Redfin suggests answering the following questions:
Helpful Zillow articles:
Remember, This Is Not Our Home
“In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”
John 14:2–3 ESV
Keep an eternal perspective when you talk to your parents, being mindful of three financial milestones: making it to the end of the month without running out of money, making it to the end of life without running out of money, and preparing to stand before the Lord to be evaluated for stewardship. Talk to them about each of these milestones, and see what is on their heart.
Hopefully, you can support them and help them whichever way they decide to go.
Walking through a functional budget is a good place to start, and Crown has free tools that can help. We also offer a variety of calculators that can help with making financial decisions.
This article was originally published on The Christian Post on September 5, 2025.
