In this episode, host AB Ridgeway dives into the essential components of Christian investing, distinguishing it from traditional financial planning. He outlines the four pillars of Christian investing: debt management, savings, investing, and wealth transfer. Emphasizing the spiritual and practical aspects, AB Ridgeway guides listeners on how to build a robust financial foundation while aligning their investments with their Christian values.

Debt Management: Managing debt is a continuous process that lays the groundwork for a Christian financial plan. Understanding interest rates and loan terms is crucial to avoid overpaying. For example, using a credit card with a 20% interest rate means a $1 hamburger could end up costing $1.20 if not paid off immediately. This principle applies to larger debts like mortgages, emphasizing the importance of prudent borrowing.
Savings: True savings isn't about finding deals but about preserving today's purchasing power for future needs. AB Ridgeway highlights that Americans often spend tomorrow's dollars today, which undermines their financial stability. He advocates for maintaining six to nine months of emergency savings to handle unexpected expenses like job changes or natural disasters, ensuring long-term financial security.
Investing: Before investing, it's essential to address debt and build savings. Without this foundation, the risks of losing invested money can jeopardize financial stability. Once ready to invest, individuals should seek professional advice to navigate options like 401(k)s, IRAs, and brokerage accounts. A Christian financial advisor focuses on prudent decision-making that aligns with personal values and spiritual goals.
Wealth Transfer: Proper estate planning is essential to pass on financial and spiritual legacies. Creating clear documentation, like wills and medical proxies, ensures that your wishes are honored and prevents disputes among heirs. This preparation helps maintain the continuity of core beliefs and values across generations, mirroring the biblical tradition of passing down wisdom.
1. "Money does cost. How much does your dollar cost? If you put a hamburger on your credit card and don’t pay it off, it costs you $1.20 instead of $1."
2. "Saving money is taking your purchasing power today and pushing it into the future to use if needed. Spending tomorrow’s dollars today is destroying your financial plan."
3. "Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, especially their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." (1 Timothy 5:8)

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*Disclaimer: This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy or the completeness of any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. This is strictly for information purposes. We recommend you speak with a professional financial advisor.