Most of us innately know that saving and investing are not the same, but do we understand the difference? Because clarity in this distinction can greatly impact one’s financial well being, realizing these difference is vital. The key is in two words: risk and liquidity. Savings are low risk funds that must be liquid (available) when you need them. The purpose of saving money is so you can have it for a specific purpose within a short time frame. Investments,... Read more
If you are like the majority of Americans, you are expecting to receive a tax refund when you file your taxes. So what exactly is a tax refund? It is NOT winning some sort of income tax lottery, nor is your Uncle Sam sending you some special “government money”. It is simply a refund. Because you overpaid your taxes, the government, after keeping your money all year long, is giving it back to you. What should you do with Your... Read more
And the answer is – (simulated drumroll)…It depends! Sorry, but it doesn’t fit neatly into one of those one-size-fits-all answers. Let’s take a look at the possibilities… In theory, tithing is tax-deductible. But whether or not you can do it depends on your tax situation. Tithing comes under the tax deduction category of charitable contributions. That makes it tax-deductible. But there’s a glitch. It’s only deductible if the amount of your tithe, plus other tax-deductible expenses, exceeds the standard deduction.... Read more
Have you ever given a gift and it just didn’t have the effect you desired? Maybe you’ve given one too many gift cards and you’re ready for something different – something creative! There are better ways you can give – the Bible even has something to say about it! Below are some better ways you can give and make someone’s day! Whether you are giving to a stranger or someone you know, they’ll be sure to love these gift ideas.... Read more
Abraham Lincoln Washington, DC October 3, 1863 An excerpt from Abraham Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Day proclamation. I do therefore invite my fellow-citizens…to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings they do also…commend to His tender care all those who have become... Read more
Sometimes it’s tempting to think about the life we’re working toward. We can’t wait until _____________ (fill in the blank). That something could be school, a better job, a bigger paycheck, a newer car or house, or better health. Don’t get me wrong, these things can motivate us sometimes when we feel overwhelmed, and can help to stay on track. But when the ‘next phase’ is all that we think about, we risk losing sight of what we have in... Read more
The Bible gives hope, changes lives, and encourages people each and every day. The Word of God is living and active and still applies to us today. The Bible says in Galatians 1:8: But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned! If you are new to Christianity, understand that the only true word of God is the Bible itself. No other books... Read more
Zig Ziglar was one of the most inspiring voices of the 20th century. His motivational books and speaking events inspired thousands of people to improve their lives. He wrote over two dozen books and was considered the King of Motivation and the ultimate coach of salesmanship. Unfortunately, Zig Ziglar passed away on November 28, 2012; he was 86 years old. He will always be remembered for his inspiring words and his encouraging messages. While there are many great quotes out... Read more
$37,172 This is the average debt load a student will end up with after graduating college. If you’re like the 66% of all undergraduate students who have taken a student loan, you probably want to get rid of those things as fast as possible. It’s easy to get caught up in the borrowing maze in college and managing your loans can become a headache quite fast. With lenders selling your loan to other places and changing their name – it’s... Read more
The holidays are great, but buying gifts can get expensive. Real expensive. But if you’re like me, you enjoy giving gifts to people and watching them open them on Christmas day. Even better is giving someone a homemade gift that you invested your own time and energy creating. Making a homemade Christmas gift or decorations can be economical and thoughtful at the same time. If you’re the DIY type of person, consider one of these 20 homemade Christmas gift ideas... Read more
Faith and Finance
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