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.
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.
