Biggest Financial Mistakes with Ron Blue

Dec 31, 2024

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Some people learn from the mistakes of others. Unfortunately, some people have to be the others.

Well, you certainly don’t want to be one of the “others” who have to learn things the hard way by making mistakes. Today, we’ll talk to Ron Blue about some of the biggest financial mistakes you want to avoid.

Ron Blue is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of many books on biblical finance, most notably “Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment.”

Setting Financial Goals

Without clear financial goals, you're essentially aiming at nothing. Goals help you prioritize and manage your spending effectively. Setting goals provides direction and ensures that your spending aligns with your priorities.

Avoiding a Consumptive Lifestyle

A consumptive lifestyle involves spending significantly more than necessary, often on things that don’t build financial equity. We all face the temptation of greed—a new car or a dress. Overspending on consumable items leads to a lack of financial growth. Instead, focus on investing in things that build equity and create long-term value.

The Pitfall of Greed

Greed is often disguised in pursuing the American dream. It's a subtle but pervasive issue. Tim Keller, a well-known pastor, once pointed out that in his experience, greed is rarely confessed as a sin. We often justify our spending under the guise of higher motives, which can lead to financial mismanagement. Avoiding greed starts with creating and sticking to a budget.

The Importance of Budgeting

Many view budgeting as restrictive, but it's quite the opposite—budgeting is liberating. A budget allows for pre-planned spending, which includes saving for vacations and preparing for emergencies like car repairs or broken appliances. Planning your expenses provides financial freedom and security.

Giving: A Key to Financial Freedom

Many believe that giving should come from surplus rather than regular income. However, giving is essential for experiencing true financial freedom. It's not about the money but about your heart and willingness to trust and honor God with your finances.

By following these principles, you can achieve financial contentment and freedom.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

I'm 62, and my wife is 56. Due to market concerns, our advisor recommended shifting our portfolio to 50% stocks and 50% bonds a few years ago. We're generally more aggressive investors. Am I missing out on potential earnings by being more conservative?
My in-laws are about 80 years old and have some well-matured savings bonds. The last time they used some of the bonds for home upgrades, they got hit with a significant tax bill. Is there anything they can do to move the savings bonds in a way that avoids the tax impact?
I just turned 65 in July. I read that the age for collecting full Social Security benefits was pushed back. What is my full retirement age now? And can I still work without affecting my benefits once I reach full retirement age?
I'm 72 years old. Last year, I set up charitable contributions from my IRA, but the church I attend is not a 501(c)(3) organization. Does it need to be a 501(c)(3) for me to make those qualified charitable distributions from my IRA? Also, I've been working part-time. How much can I contribute to a Roth IRA this year?

Resources Mentioned:

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