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.
Dear Chuck,
We are struggling to give and save right now. We have low debt, but inflation has reduced our financial margin, and our stress is high. What can we do?
High Financial Stress
Dear High Financial Stress,
Inflation is considered the “invisible tax.” Money seems to simply be disappearing. This has caused you and so many others to live on the edge of a financial cliff, feeling vulnerable and hopeless. Oftentimes, we need new ideas to recover from the lack we are experiencing. While there are many practical tips I have written about over the years, today, I want to focus on a story in Luke 5. Christ’s miraculous provision has financial lessons that I hope will encourage you as much as it has me.
Jesus Shows His Power to Provide
“And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.’
“And Simon answered, ‘Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.’
“And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.
“But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’s knees, saying, ‘Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.’ For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon.
“And Jesus said to Simon, ‘Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.’ And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him” (Luke 5:4–11 ESV).
The Financial Lessons
Faith-Fueled Effort
Peter initially expressed doubt but ultimately obeyed. Jesus’s instructions seemed illogical and a waste of time and energy. He was tired after working all night. But, out of respect, Peter did what Jesus said.
Even though human reasoning seems more logical, obedience can lead to unexpected blessings.
Obedience to Divine Instruction
Peter’s obedience resulted in a massive catch. Following the Lord, though His ways are not our ways, can lead to breakthroughs and abundance. Aligning our decisions and plans with God’s financial principles requires a step of faith that ultimately leads to unexpected blessings and provision. God intimately knows our situations and lovingly asks us to trust Him.
“Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need” (Malachi 3:10 ESV).
Israel had strayed from the Lord’s statutes. Speaking through the prophet Malachi, God told them to test Him. That would require a step of faith. That’s very uncomfortable, illogical, and even counter to all worldly wisdom, but God shows Himself strong when we obey.
Trusting God’s Timing
The disciples had fished all night without success. Jesus’s instruction to try again demonstrates that His timing is often different from our own. We can trust Him, even when things don’t go as we might have planned. His ways are perfect—beyond our comprehension.
Unexpected Abundance
The magnitude of the catch shows that God can provide in unexpected ways that sometimes exceed our expectations. The men could not have achieved this through their own efforts. Yet God is not limited in what He is capable of doing. Trust Him, even when you doubt, fail, or fear.
Applications for Financial Fear and Stress
Faithful stewardship is rooted in obedience. It’s the key to experiencing financial freedom. Peter obeyed Jesus, though it seemed unreasonable. The result? The largest catch any of the disciples had probably ever witnessed. Rather than being led by emotions or human rationale, do what God says—whether it makes sense or not. Then look forward with great anticipation to the way He will work things together for your good and His glory. We are not promised prosperity, but He said he would supply our needs.
Jesus demonstrated His divinity through a mass of fish. This motivated Peter and the others to leave their nets and follow Him. We may not change our careers when God moves in mysterious ways, but it should cause us to pause, question, and reset our priorities. Jesus’s divine power sheds light on our limited faith. Confession and repentance will draw us into a deeper relationship with God and others. Through it, we discover that living with purpose transcends material wealth.
I’d like to invite you to join a free Crown Bible study on the YouVersion app. We have several devotionals regarding money and stewardship that can provide wisdom and encouragement by bringing God’s Word into your daily life.
This article was originally published on The Christian Post on August 29, 2025.
Dear Chuck,
By the end of the week, my wife and I are exhausted. We have two children under the age of 10. We both have good jobs and work hard, but we barely get by. We’re tired by Friday but seem to have no time to rest, even on the weekends. How would you advise young families stuck in a hamster wheel of activity?
Exhausted Parents
Dear Exhausted Parents,
Modern society has laid claim to 100% of our time. So many Americans are trapped in the cycle of never-ending fatigue: work all week, stay continuously plugged in to our jobs and friends via technology, keep an eye on social media, take the kids to their activities on Saturdays, knock out a few chores around the house in our spare time, fall into bed Sunday night, and start back again Monday morning.
This cycle, if not addressed, will lead to physical, psychological, and emotional burnout. Add in financial stress, and the need for real rest of the mind and body is not just a nice idea—it is essential.
Created to Rest
Our heavenly Father rested after He created the world and commanded it for our good.
“For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them,
and rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.” Exodus 20:11 ESV
This is an invitation to God’s gift of rest and renewal from a week of worthwhile work. In slowing down, we can more clearly see His hand in the world around us. Resting is an act of faith.
The problem is that many of us don’t really know how to rest. Without it, our emotional well-being, physical health, performance, and safety on the job will suffer. Rest, or the lack thereof, significantly impacts our financial well-being.
Many couples, like you, need a genuine time of restorative pause from the normal activities of life. We need to be unplugged from the constant motion and engagement of our minds and emotions.
What Is Sabbathing?
“Sabbathing” is being intentional in resting your mind, body, and soul. We all need and benefit from time set aside to really rest. Aim to make Sundays truly special. If you must work on Sunday, then honor the Sabbath on another day.
These are perfect days to speak blessings over your spouse and children. Learn to enjoy preparing meals together, planning potlucks or picnics, or having a dessert that you only eat that day. Play, read, and worship together. Do whatever restores your soul, glorifies God, and honors your neighbor.
Make rest and “Sabbathing” a priority in your family. It’s a holy time that will benefit you for life. I suggest reading these Scriptures: Deuteronomy 5:12–15; Isaiah 58:13–14; Mark 2:27; and Matthew 11:28-30.
Fatigue Is Dangerous
When tired, our emotional control is diminished. We become vulnerable to outbursts of anger, poor judgment, and overspending. I have counseled people who incurred great debt to finance their annual “escape,” such as a cruise or visit to their favorite vacation spot. They arrive exhausted and, though temporarily recharged, come home to debt, more stress, and more overwork. Other people overspend weekly by eating out, ordering in food, and buying entertainment as a means to try to relax. These activities are expensive and subtly deceptive.
Get Practical
Stepping off the treadmill of life is required to rest well. If you prepare for it, you can step away guilt-free from the demands of your life.
Rest Impacts Every Area for the Better
If you are also experiencing financial stress, I suggest these resources:
A budget is one way to help you rest from financial stress while achieving your goals. Consider connecting with a Crown budget coach to develop a customized spending plan and debt-elimination strategy.
This article was originally published on The Christian Post on August 22, 2025.
Dear Chuck,
I don’t believe in the sacred/secular divide when it comes to our jobs or careers. Can you provide Biblical insights that I can use with others for a devotional on this topic?
Our Work Is Sacred to the Lord
Dear Our Work Is Sacred,
The Bible certainly does not support the idea that work is secular and only spiritual activities like going to church, reading the Bible, or praying are sacred. Because we are redeemed by God’s mercy and His Spirit dwells in us, Christ is with us when we get up, when we lie down, when we work, and when we rest. Let’s look at the Bible verses that can be helpful in your outreach to others.
This Is Best For You
Since the average American spends about 100,000 hours working, this is no insignificant topic! Did you know that we are in the top ten nations/cultures that work the most hours each year? We are also at the top of the list of nations/cultures that take the least amount of vacation days.
A major part of one’s adult life is involved in work. God instituted work from the beginning. “The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it” (Genesis 2:15 ESV). He put Adam to work for his own benefit. It was not a curse, although work was made more difficult after the fall.
The work we do and the jobs we hold are not simply means to earn money. They are also the ways by which our talents and abilities are used to develop our character and to minister in countless ways to others. The old saying is true: “The man may build the house, but the house also builds the man.”
God gave us many principles to help us improve our work habits and cure our “overwork” habits. Larry Burkett used to say, “God’s principles are His way of saying, ‘This is best for you.’ They are not laws that, if broken, lead to punishment but guides that, if not followed, lead to pain, loss, or missed blessings.” Let’s look at some of the key principles.
We Work, God Provides
“All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty” (Proverbs 14:23 NIV).
God designed us to work. It is His method for providing for our needs. He never promised to provide for our needs through gambling, attempting to get rich quickly, or praying that money would fall from the sky into our bank account. God is a worker. He created us to be workers. The Apostle Paul even stated, “If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10b).
Work with Excellence
“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 actually serve the Lord in our work. Martin Luther King Jr. once said:
“If it falls your lot to be a street sweeper, sweep streets like Michelangelo painted pictures, like Shakespeare wrote poetry, like Beethoven composed music; sweep streets so well that all the host of Heaven and earth will have to pause and say, ‘Here lived a great street sweeper, who swept his job well.’”
Trust the Lord for Promotion
“For promotion and power come from nowhere on earth, but only from God” (Psalm 75:6–7 TLB).
Try to imagine Jesus as your employer. It will change the mindset you have at work. He can raise you up, move you to another job, or give you all you need to do the job at hand.
Work Hard
Scripture encourages hard work and diligence, while laziness is condemned. “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might” (Ecclesiastes 9:10a ESV). “He who is slack in his work is a brother to him who destroys” (Proverbs 18:9 ESV).
Give every task your best effort; don’t hold back when asked to do even the most menial tasks.
A radio listener once shared his testimony with me that he could not find a job after being released from a seven-year prison sentence. The only chance he got was to provide maintenance at a truck stop that was a combination of a convenience store, restaurant, and gift shop. His boss asked him to clean the restrooms every hour on the hour as part of his responsibility. After only two weeks, he received a promotion to manager with a hefty raise. His boss explained that he was the only employee who had ever faithfully cleaned the restrooms every hour as expected.
Work with a Great Attitude
Godly employees should follow the standard set for elders: “He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined” (Titus 1:7–8 ESV).
Workers should live above reproach so that employers, colleagues, or customers will not question or doubt their honesty; rather, they should have a positive attitude at all times.
Work to Honor Fellow Employees
Avoid gossip, backbiting, or slanderous talk. Go out of your way to serve in love. Your example can be contagious and bring lasting change to a work environment.
Work to Bring Salt and Light to the Marketplace
Just as Daniel demonstrated his faith, workers today can too. The challenge is to do so in a winsome way without condemnation or judgment.
Don’t Overwork
“But seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33 ESV).
Hard work must be balanced by one’s relationships with Christ, spouse, and family. If work interferes with any of these three relationships, priorities must be assessed.
“You shall work six days, but on the seventh you shall rest; even during plowing time and harvest you shall rest” (Exodus 34:21 NASB).
Remember, God “rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done” (Genesis 2:2b ESV). He set the perfect example for us; we should certainly rest too!
I hope this simple outline will be helpful as you share with others the idea that our work is sacred and pleasing to the Lord. Pray for those you will share with, and ask God to open doors for you to share your personal story and joy in working as unto the Lord.
I’d like to invite you to join a free Crown Bible study on the YouVersion app. We have several devotionals regarding money and stewardship that can provide wisdom by bringing God’s Word into your daily life.
This article was originally published on The Christian Post on August 8, 2025.
Dear Chuck,
I grew up in the church but wasn’t taught God’s way of handling money. It seems our debt crisis is related to ignoring God’s Word. What can we do about it?
Worried About America’s Debt
Dear Worried About America’s Debt,
Back when Larry Burkett started a comprehensive teaching of what the Bible says about money, nearly 50 years ago, he was very concerned about America’s runaway federal, state, and local government debt—and that of the average American. Those trends have only gotten worse. We believe you are correct; this is a symptom of ignoring God’s financial principles.
The Bible and Money
We may never be able to change the course of massive federal overspending and borrowing, but we can advocate for more Christian leaders to equip others to learn and apply God’s financial principles. The Bible addresses every aspect of every area of handling money. God used more than 2,350 verses in His Word to instruct us in His principles of earning, giving, saving, spending, investing, getting out of debt, and teaching children how to handle money. Yet most Christians are unaware of the biblical principles because they were not taught them.
In Matthew 28:18–20, Jesus issued the Great Commission: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
After evangelizing the nations, the second command is, “teaching them to observe all that I commanded you.” This has been largely ignored with respect to one of the most addressed subjects in the ministry of Jesus: God’s financial principles. Spiritual leaders must take seriously the command to make disciples by teaching people all that He taught. His financial principles are essential for our freedom from the control of money and for the perpetuation of the Church.
The Core Lesson
Most Christians believe that the Lord has no part in their finances. But Scripture reveals that He plays the central role as Owner of all things. Psalm 24:1 says: “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein…” (ESV).
Any financial teaching in the church is usually confined to handling the tithe, or 10% of one’s income. Although this is crucial, most believers do not understand the reason for giving or the Lord’s perspective for handling the other 90%. That remaining money is perceived to be theirs to use as they please. Nothing could be further from the truth.
All income, assets, and possessions belong to God; we own nothing. We are merely stewards, or managers, of what belongs to Him. Hence, we do not have the liberty to spend as we might desire. He has granted us the tremendous responsibility to manage things in a way that would please Him.
If we are to effectively present the message of the Great Commission, we cannot fail to address the subject of financial stewardship. Failing to teach the full counsel of God’s Word on biblical financial stewardship omits a major segment of Jesus’ command. A look at America’s debt levels shows the need for education in our churches and our homes.
See the Stats:
Proverbs 22:7 has been ignored: “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.” So has Deuteronomy 15:6, which was given to the nation of Israel: “For the Lord your God will bless you, as he promised you, and you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow, and you shall rule over many nations, but they shall not rule over you.”
What Can We Do?
To insulate yourself against the economic threats created by excessive debt, be sure to minimize or eliminate your personal debt as much as possible. The less you owe, the freer you become.
Place your faith and confidence in God’s hands, and avoid worrying about the condition of the economy. God will be with us in a good economy or a bad economy.
Pray that our churches, spiritual leaders, and godly parents will teach Biblical financial principles in order to raise up faithful stewards who will be free to work, give, save, spend, and invest in ways that will grow God’s Kingdom.
Let’s remember that biblical stewardship is not being free to spend money however we want; it is being free for God to spend us however He wants.
Crown has many free resources to help: online courses, budget coaches, Bible studies, and training courses. I invite you to help us reach more people like yourself who want to help others become faithful stewards.
If you need help digging out of credit card debt, 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.
Dear Chuck,
I just finished paying off credit card debt from Christmas. What should I do right now to avoid repeating this mistake?
Christmas Is Coming
Dear Christmas Is Coming,
The term Christmas in July was introduced as a fun celebration at a girls’ camp in Brevard, North Carolina, back in 1933. Over the years, “Christmas in July” has been used to call people to action to collect gifts in advance of the real Christmas celebration in December. A church in Washington, D.C. held a summer donation drive in 1942 to gather gifts to send to missions in time for Christmas. The U.S. Post Office did the same during World War II for soldiers stationed overseas.
Similarly, you can plan ahead for Christmas now to avoid being burdened with last-minute shopping and debt. Love, affirmation, joy, and hope can be given without spending any money, but it does take planning!
Many of our sweetest Christmas memories cost nothing. Ask God for creativity to bless those you love while staying within your budget. Determine how much cash you can spend, and resolve to stick to that. Keep things simple and God-honoring. Contrary to what the world or your peers tell you, gifts do not have to cost a lot of money. Give your time or talent, or pass down heirlooms. The memories spent together will last longer than the latest retail trends.
Traditions
Now is the perfect time to ask your family to submit their favorite traditions. Record them for reference, and plan a way to implement what you can.
Decorations
Make your own, or begin shopping at garage sales and thrift stores. Facebook Marketplace has a wide variety of items for sale.
Food
Collect your favorite holiday recipes. You could assemble a “family favorites” cookbook with generations of traditional dishes. It would make a nice gift!
Gifts
If you are artistic, begin projects that will bless others.
Have family heirlooms you can pass down? These make special gifts. Like to cook? Gather recipes you can prepare and freeze in the months ahead. Are you a gardener? Propagate living gifts. I know my wife loves receiving plants from friends!
Write affirmations. You have months to thoughtfully prepare. I did this one year and spoke them aloud to each of our children and grandchildren. The children were spellbound as I celebrated how God uniquely created them. Send the affirmations in cards to those who cannot be with you.
Think of a family or individual you can bless anonymously. Pull the children in on this so they have the joy of giving money or sharing toys with someone in need. They will love knowing you entrust them to keep it a “big secret!” They do not have to know names or details, but they can experience that “it is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Remember your church staff and missionaries. December can be tough for them.
Activities
Review your calendar to see what you did last December. It may have been a flurry of recitals, concerts, and parties. Prioritize your family by guarding your time.
Build compassion in the hearts of your children by visiting the lonely, sick, or grieving in your community. Find ways you can serve together.
Schedule an afternoon or evening to host a caroling party or potluck open house. A white elephant gift exchange can be hilarious or deeply meaningful, depending on your intent. We know a family who does this among themselves every year. We were privileged to be invited one year to experience the fun.
Put Christmas concerts, plays, and programs on your calendar, especially those that are free! Start saving now for those that aren’t.
Collect good books to read aloud as a family. Check used book stores. Read an Advent devotional together.
Gather holiday puzzles. They are fun to keep out on a table. Have a stash of board games? One of my sons buys his at thrift stores. Monopoly marathons are a tradition at the holidays with our now-grown sons.
Do you send Christmas cards? Book your photographer (or friend with an iPhone), and order them early.
Plan a New Year’s Day walk, followed by a brunch. Include friends, family, or neighbors. Pray a blessing over each attendee for the year ahead.
Make A Commitment Not to Use Debt
Whether or not money is an issue, we have the privilege and responsibility of stewarding what God provides. Ignore retailers’ gimmicks, and choose to give that which has lasting value.
Often, we overspend on ourselves during the Christmas season as we see things we want while shopping for others. When tempted to spend money on yourself, ask if it is a need or a want. What better uses could you find with the money you will save? Remind yourself how much more joy you will have after showing affection and generosity to your loved ones, but not having any debt in January!
Check out this article about ways you can cultivate a grateful attitude in your kids at Christmas.
This July, plan your December around the gift of Christ. Set goals, and prepare your time wisely so you and your loved ones will be blessed—free of debt!
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth,
where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal,
but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven,
where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:19–21 ESV
If you have other burdensome credit card debt, 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 July 25, 2025
Dear Chuck,
I had great hopes of teaching my children about money this summer. With only a few weeks left, can you give me some easy talking points?
Raising Money-Savvy Kids
Dear Raising Money-Savvy Kids,
First of all, I love to hear that you want to be intentional about teaching your children financial stewardship. Summer is a great time to introduce the subject to your children, but don’t stop once they head back to school. Children are sponges. They watch us handle money and often come to their own conclusions. That’s why it is critical that we, as adults, understand what God says about the topic, so we demonstrate what we want them to know. In this article I have broken down some age-appropriate ways to teach your children about financial stewardship.
Teaching Toddlers
This is a great time to instill the habit of delayed gratification—of learning to wait before getting what is wanted and seeing the reward that follows work. Requiring children to pick up their toys before they get a treat is a life skill in the making. As children begin to ask or demand things, patiently talk with them about why the answer is “No.” For example, a child who wants pizza for dinner can be told that Friday is pizza night, and that is what you budgeted for. This illustrates the financial construct of planning, waiting, and reward. They are capable of understanding anticipation, a plan, and the word “No.”
Teaching Elementary-Age
At the heart of every well-rounded budget are three goals: saving, giving, and spending. I encourage parents to give children an allowance for work around the home. When my children were young, my wife, Ann, got a three-ring binder for our boys with three pouches labeled Saving, Giving, and Spending. This taught them how to divide money as they earned it. The lifetime discipline of setting aside 10% of all money earned for the work of the Lord has eternal ramifications. As a child sees their savings grow, they can participate in making plans, another good discipline. While spending may seem like the easy part, how to shop can be a learned skill as you help your child think through wants and needs and work toward that end.
Our free eBooks and Coloring downloads may be helpful.
Teaching Teens
A great way to connect with your teens is by discussing money. It opens the door to great conversations about life. Walking through a functional budget is a good place to start, and we have free tools that can help. Too many teens enter adulthood without counting the costs in their purchasing decisions. A budget is the sum total of all the financial parts they will have to consider when they are on their own.
Invite them to join you when you go through bills. They will gain an education on the cost of things, from utilities to insurance, food, rent, and more. Have them accompany you when shopping for a car or making choices at the grocery store. Patiently explain how you balance needs versus wants.
Warn them about the dangers of scams via phones, texts, mail, and social media.
Towfiqu Barbhuiya 0itvgxau5oo Unsplash
Family Resources
Consider enrolling your entire family in Crown’s Online MoneyLife Personal Finance Study to learn practical financial skills. Or gather a small group of parents and teens. Many years ago, I took one of my sons and his friends through Crown’s 10-week study. To celebrate our completion, I told them each to bring $5, and instead of going out to eat, my wife was going to show them how much more food cooking at home would provide. They had a feast complete with a teen-pleasing dessert. The lessons stuck with that son!
Our God Provides video series will make a lasting impression on your family and create opportunities to discuss important themes.
The July 11th Ask Chuck about financial freedom can also provide some insight into being a good steward.
This Crown article gives more details on teaching the following topics to children:
Help your older children discover their purpose and unique design through the several tools we have on our website. Give them the confidence they need to face the worldly lies they either already have or will encounter in the future. Encourage them to rest in the promises of God. The principles He gave in His Word are not meant to restrict them but are for their good and ultimately their freedom.
Remember the words of Moses:
“And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the Lord, which I am commanding you today for your good?” – Deuteronomy 10:12–13 ESV
“You shall teach them to your children, talking of them when you are sitting in your house, and when you are walking by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” – Deuteronomy 11:19 ESV
I’d like to invite you and your family to join a free Crown Bible study on the YouVersion app. We have several devotionals regarding money and stewardship that can encourage you by bringing God’s Word into your daily life.
This post was originally published on The Christian Post on July 18, 2025.
Hey Chuck,
I occasionally listen to your radio program. You talk a lot about being a steward and gaining financial freedom. I must admit I am a bit skeptical. What do you mean by the term“financial freedom”?
Skeptical About Financial Freedom
Dear Skeptical About Financial Freedom,
I appreciate the honesty reflected in this question. It’s easy to throw around a word, assuming people have a clear understanding of what it means. So thank you for the opportunity to explain.
First, these two statements are interrelated, starting with the Biblical truth that we do not own anything:
Living as a steward means surrendering your finances to God
and recognizing yourself as a manager, not an owner, of all you have.
Financial freedom is becoming free of the control money has exerted over our lives.
Once we have surrendered our ownership rights and become faithful to managing what God has provided for us, we are able to serve only one Master, Jesus Christ. This is not the poverty gospel, which declares money and riches to be evil, nor is it the prosperity gospel, which exalts riches as a sign of God’s favor or something that can be demanded of the Lord. This is the freedom to be content with what you have and to enjoy the true riches promised to the righteous, regardless of their income or wealth. Let me walk you through part of the process to get there.
Transfer Ownership
This is a crucial first step for experiencing the Spirit-filled life in the area of finances. It involves surrendering your money, material possessions, time, family, education, and future earning potential to God. There is no substitute for this step. If you believe that you own even a single thing, then events affecting it will affect your attitude. God is a gentle Master. He does not force His perfect will into our lives but beckons us to surrender our wills to Him.
Honor God First
This step involves giving to God before spending anything on ourselves. It is a physical act to show that we have truly given ownership of our finances to God. (See Malachi 3:8–10; 2 Corinthians 9:7.)
Accept God’s Provision
No matter how much money you have, take the step to recognize that God’s provision is enough. His will can be accomplished no matter how much or how little you have. Not all Christians will experience abundance, but living in poverty does not necessarily make one closer to God either. His desire is that all who are capable will live by the virtuous cycle: work, give, save, spend, and invest. That is how we find fulfillment as stewards.
Become Debt Free
This is an important step because it gives you more margin and freedom to be used by God.
Keep a Clear Conscience
If God convicts you of having wronged someone, go and make restitution. Operate with absolute integrity so that you are free from worry, stress, bitterness, and strife.
Put Others First
Serve others in love. This step does not imply being a doormat for others. It involves an attitude that does not seek to profit at the disadvantage of another.
Limit Time Involvement
Set boundaries on time devoted to business or your career. Do not make money a priority over your family or relationships.
As Proverbs 23:4–5 (ESV) says: “Do not toil to acquire wealth; be discerning enough to desist. When your eyes light on it, it is gone, for suddenly it sprouts wings, flying like an eagle toward heaven.”
Set aside time with God and your family. Turn off screens, lovingly serve your spouse, play with the kids, teach them God’s Word, and pray together. Money cannot buy those relationships—and time will not stand still while you work.
Avoid Indulgence
“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23 ESV)
“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. For on him God the Father has set his seal.” (John 6:27 ESV)
Learn What God’s Word Says About Your Finances
The Bible contains thousands of verses about money. Crown’s online studies provide help in learning to live as a faithful steward and in how to make practical changes to align your finances with Scripture.
Get Christian Counsel and Advice
Proverbs 15:22 (ESV) says, “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.”
Many Christians become frustrated in financial management because they lack the necessary knowledge and just give up. God has equipped others with the wisdom, experience, and ability to help. Crown has trained budget coaches and a trusted partnership with Christian Credit Counselors.
The financial principles given throughout God’s Word are for our good. They are not an arbitrary set of rules to govern us; they are a loving Father’s wisdom to those who will listen and trust Him. May you find great pleasure in stewarding all He has given you and experience the joy of true financial freedom.
Do you want more tools and tips on financial stewardship? Are you interested in receiving 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 July 11, 2025
