Money Made Faithful With John Putnam

What if the power to change the world was in the palm of your hand?
In this episode, we're exploring the incredible impact of a simple act of giving and how it can transform lives. Inspired by the inspiring story of a small village in India, I delve into the profound significance of generosity and worshiping God through our giving. Proverbs 31:20 serves as our anchor, guiding us to open our hands and reach out to those in need. Join me as we embrace the "handful challenge" and witness the worshipful handiwork that can change lives for God's glory!

In this episode, John discusses:

• Exploring the amazing abilities of human hands
• How small gifts can create a massive impact
• Transforming lives with a handful of rice in a village in India
• Proverbs 31:20 - Opening hands to the needy

Key Takeaways:

• Inspired by Proverbs 31:20, a village in Mizoram, India, embraced biblical generosity by sacrificially offering a handful of rice at each meal, resulting in over $1 million in financial support for their church, proving that simple acts of giving can yield a profound impact.
• A simple act of generosity, like offering a handful of rice, can lead to remarkable results and empower communities to worship God together.
• Embracing the "Handful Challenge" by setting aside a symbolic handful of our resources, as a family or individually, can create a powerful expression of worship and generosity, making a significant difference in the lives of others and glorifying God.

“Set aside your handful of rice at each meal on each day. And as your eyes are open to the needs of others, and your mind is open to this idea, and your heart is open to the spirit, and your hand is open to grab a handful of the resources that you have, just like in Mizoram, there will be a big pile of worship released for God's glory.”
VIDEO - A Handful of Rice:

• 3-minute version: https://vimeo.com/generousgiving/handfulofriceshort
• 7-minute version: https://vimeo.com/generousgiving/handfulofrice

Additional resources:

• Get your free “Get Recession Ready” mini-course at https://changeforyourdollar.com/
• Free Goal Achievement Supercharger Lessons & Worksheets

Let’s continue the conversation!
Connect to Smarter Stewardship at https://smarterstewardship.com/ and gain access to resources that will help you stay in the loop for resources that will actively help you shape your financial future.
If you’re interested in growing in your faith, wealth, and life, visit https://changeforyourdollar.com/ for all the tools you need from coaching and speaking to my latest book, He Spends, She Spends!
If this blessed you today, please Subscribe, Leave a Review, and Share with someone who you believe will benefit from this message!
Contact John:
Website: https://changeforyourdollar.com/
Website: https://smarterstewarship.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarterstewardship
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smarterstewardship

Do you ever wonder if a little gift even matters?
I dive into a powerful story today that reminds us of the incredible impact we can make with what's in our hands - just like “Saint” Jean Webster, who started an inspiring ministry of faith and stewardship from a simple offering she had. I'll explore how her story connects to the Bible verse of John 6:5-12, where Jesus feeds the 5,000. In our daily lives, when we may feel inadequate or lacking resources, remember that God can do remarkable things with just a little, when we let Him. Let these incredible outcomes encourage and empower you to believe as you trust Him with what's in your hands!
I n this episode, John discusses:

• The impact of simple acts of kindness and generosity in challenging times.
• The story of "Saint" Jean's ministry and the lessons from feeding the 5,000 (John 6:5-12).
• Embracing the inadequacy of resources and trusting God's multiplication.
• Learning to trust God's hands and multiply the impact of our resources when serving others in need.

Key Takeaways:

• Be a faithful steward of the resources in your hands, no matter how small, and trust in God's ability to multiply your efforts for His impact.
• Just like "Saint" Jean, use what you have in your hands, whether it's money, time, or resources, and offer it in service to others, trusting that God can use it for remarkable outcomes.
• When faced with a need, don't be discouraged by what may seem like limited resources; instead, let go of what you have and trust that God can work with it beyond your understanding.
• Allow yourself to be amazed by God's blessings and multiplication when you offer your simple offerings to Him and watch as He transforms and blesses the lives of others through your actions.

“Look around to see where there may be a need, a situation, or a person. Then, look and see what you have in your hands. It could be your money, a resource, a tool, your influence, or a phone call. Whatever it may be, take what you have and offer it to God in service to others. Then, watch Him do so much.”

Resources Mentioned:

• Jean Webster Wikipedia page link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jean_Webster_(cook)

Additional resources:

• Get your free “Get Recession Ready” mini-course at https://changeforyourdollar.com/
• Free Goal Achievement Supercharger Lessons & Worksheets

Let’s continue the conversation!
Connect to Smarter Stewardship at https://smarterstewardship.com/ and gain access to resources that will help you stay in the loop for resources that will actively help you shape your financial future.
If you’re interested in growing in your faith, wealth, and life, visit https://changeforyourdollar.com/ for all the tools you need from coaching and speaking to my latest book, He Spends, She Spends!
If this blessed you today , please Subscribe, Leave a Review, and Share with someone who you believe will benefit from this message!
Contact John:
Website: https://changeforyourdollar.com/
Website: https://smarterstewarship.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarterstewardship
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smarterstewardship

There may actually be 'free money' waiting for you! In this episode, we'll specifically focus on the potential benefits of some employer-sponsored plans and explore the importance of following through on the wisdom of scripture. By taking advantage of three poential opportunities that may be an option at your company, you might just uncover some 'free money' waiting for you. So, let's explore some financial benefits and make informed choices for your future!
In this episode, John discusses:

• A story of following instructions and taking action through the game of pickleball.
• The potential of ‘free money’ and how employer contributions can enhance your financial well-being.
• Maximizing employer-sponsored benefits for financial benefit, moving from principle to practical.
• Understanding some common employer plans and their impact on your financial future.

Key Takeaways:

• Just like in pickelball, where knowing the rules but failing to follow them led to frustration and lost points, it's vital to apply the wisdom of Scripture in our lives rather than merely being acquainted with it (Ephesians 5).
• Find out if there is ‘free money’ on the table by taking advantage of employer contributions and tax-efficient opportunities available to you.
• Explore the benefits of employer-sponsored plans like 401(k)s, health savings accounts, and flexible spending accounts to improve savings and tax advantages.
• Reach out to your HR/Benefits department and inquire about potential employer-funded benefits that you may be missing out on
• And as always, seek guidance from a financial advisor or benefits specialist before making any changes to your benefits!

“We know the right things to do, but we just don't always do them. See, if you don't use the wisdom in scripture, if you don't follow it, I mean, what good is it to know it, but not do what it says? A friend of mine puts it this way. He says, you can be filled with information, but have no transformation. So today I want to take us from principle to practical.”

Resources Mentioned:

• Employer-sponsored plans (401k): https://www.investor.gov/additional-resources/retirement-toolkit/employer-sponsored-plans/traditional-and-roth-401k-plans
• Health savings accounts (HSA): https://www.investor.gov/introduction-investing/general-resources/news-alerts/alerts-bulletins/investor-bulletins-28
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA): https://www.healthcare.gov/have-job-based-coverage/flexible-spending-accounts
• Find a CKA: https://kingdomadvisors.com/find-a-cka

Additional resources:

• Get your free “Get Recession Ready” mini-course at https://changeforyourdollar.com/
• Free Goal Achievement Supercharger Lessons & Worksheets

Let’s continue the conversation!
Connect to Smarter Stewardship at https://smarterstewardship.com/ and gain access to resources that will help you stay in the loop for resources that will actively help you shape your financial future.
If you’re interested in growing in your faith, wealth, and life, visit https://changeforyourdollar.com/ for all the tools you need from coaching and speaking to my latest book, He Spends, She Spends!
If this blessed you today, please Subscribe, Leave a Review, and Share with someone who you believe will benefit from this message!
Contact John:Website: https://changeforyourdollar.com/
Website: https://smarterstewarship.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarterstewardship
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smarterstewardship

As we reflect on our freedoms and the Declaration of Independence, (I know, I know, I'm a week late, details inside!) let's consider this question: Are you truly experiencing financial freedom amidst the incredible freedoms we have today? Let's explore the balance between our dependence on God and our approach to money and the freedoms we can enjoy. Join me as we journey toward true financial freedom and why you need a Declaration of Dependence.
In this episode, John discusses:

• Reflecting on the Declaration of Independence
• Financial freedom and dependence on God
• Finding balance and the pursuit of true financial freedom
• Celebrating the 4th of July and our Declaration of DEpendence on God

Key Takeaways:

• The Declaration of Independence serves as a timeless reminder of the ideals that founded the United States and the courage it took to achieve freedom.
• Financial independence can either enhance or hinder our spiritual relationship and dependence on God, as exemplified by the timeless wisdom of C.S. Lewis and the biblical truth that we cannot serve both God and money.
• True financial freedom allows you to have money and use it responsibly while keeping your ultimate desire and dependence on God alone.
• As we celebrate Independence Day, let us also celebrate our dependence on God for all that we are, have, and do, finding rest and peace in His plan.

“Once you choose God and God alone, whether abundance or scarcity may come, you will rest in that sweet and peaceful place where God is your only desire and money is only another resource used to honor him as you live for free.

Resources Mentioned:

• The Declaration of Independence: https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration
• Get your free “Get Recession Ready” mini-course at https://changeforyourdollar.com/
• Free Goal Achievement Supercharger Lessons & Worksheets

Let’s continue the conversation!
Connect to Smarter Stewardship at https://smarterstewardship.com/ and gain access to resources that will help you stay in the loop for resources that will actively help you shape your financial future.
If you’re interested in growing in your faith, wealth, and life, visit https://changeforyourdollar.com/ for all the tools you need from coaching and speaking to my latest book, He Spends, She Spends!
If this blessed you today, please Subscribe, Leave a Review, and Share with someone who you believe will benefit from this message!
Contact John:Website: https://changeforyourdollar.com/
Website: https://smarterstewarship.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarterstewardship
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smarterstewardship

Are you prepared and protected for daily financial life?
Drawing inspiration from an inspiring story, I explore the opportunity of spiritual armor and its relevance to our financial decisions. To illustrate its significance, I delve into the story of chemist Stephanie Kwolek, whose invention protects and saves countless lives. Just as Kevlar protects professionals in dangerous situations, we have access to spiritual armor that can shield us from financial pitfalls. Join me as I uncover the three key components of this armor and discover how they can transform our approach to stewardship.
In this episode, John discusses:

• Stephanie Kwolek, Kevlar, and the potential impact of innovative discoveries
• The opportunity of spiritual armor and its relevance in protecting oneself in a world full of financial choices and challenges
• The significance of seeking God's wisdom in making sound financial decisions and aligning one's choices with His truth
• The three key components of the spiritual armor and how they can transform our approach to stewardship

Key Takeaways:

• Protect your financial choices and opportunities by wearing the spiritual armor of God, just like Kevlar shields professionals and armed service members in battles.
• Rely on God's strength, protection, and guidance to make wise financial decisions and avoid the temptations of materialism and greed.
• Prayer is vital in seeking God's guidance and wisdom in financial decisions, inviting Him into your financial journey, and aligning your choices with His truth and word.
• By wearing the spiritual armor of God, you not only protect yourself but also contribute to a larger story, fulfilling God's purposes and bringing glory to Him while blessing others.

“He's given you the armor you need for the battles you will fight. It's time to put it on.”

• John Putnam

Resources Mentioned:

• Stronger Than Steel: How Chemist Stephanie Kwolek Invented Kevlar https://www.forbes.com/sites/kionasmith/2018/07/31/stronger-than-steel-how-chemist-stephanie-kwolek-...
• Get your free “Get Recession Ready” mini-course at https://changeforyourdollar.com/
• Free Goal Achievement Supercharger Lessons & Worksheets

Let’s continue the conversation! Connect to Smarter Stewardship at https://smarterstewardship.com/ and gain access to resources that will help you stay in the loop for resources that will actively help you shape your financial future.
If you’re interested in growing in your faith, wealth, and life , visit https://changeforyourdollar.com/ for all the tools you need from coaching and speaking to my latest book, He Spends, She Spends!
If this blessed you today, please Subscribe, Leave a Review, and Share with someone who you believe will benefit from this message!
Contact John:Website: https://changeforyourdollar.com/
Website: https://smarterstewarship.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarterstewardship
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smarterstewardship

Are you ready to replace your striving with thriving?
I take a moment today to reflect on a childhood memory from the farm—a time of beauty and growth. Amidst all the beauty, there was a plant that my father did NOT want in his fields, but it teaches us a valuable lesson about striving and thriving. Drawing inspiration from Matthew 6:26-29, I explore the significance of effortless growth and being and how it relates to our financial stewardship. Join us as we participate in God's transformative work!
In this episode, John discusses:

• Exploring an encouraging approach to life and finances by replacing striving with thriving
• Lessons in thriving from nature through the story of a “yellow weed”
• Four key takeaways in wise financial stewardship
• The transformative impact of wildflowers and financial stewardship in our daily lives

Key Takeaways:

• Replace the struggle of striving with the flourishing of thriving by centering your attention on the source of growth and cultivating a proper relationship with Jesus, mirroring the carefree grace of the lilies in the field.
• Concentrate on our heavenly Father and stay focused on Him rather than solely on your circumstances to experience spiritual growth and be unexpectedly impactful, molding and shaping lives like the stars in the sky and the lilies of the field.
• Four key takeaways in wise financial stewardship: Trusting in God's provision, practicing simplicity and contentment, seeking God's kingdom, and making an unconscious impact through faithful stewardship.
• Let the beauty of wildflowers remind you to shift your focus from anxieties about material possessions and circumstances to trusting in our heavenly Father, who knows your needs and will provide for you.

“When we are faithful in our financial stewardship and we make better money choices that are aligned and guided in our faith and God's truth and his wisdom, it has a ripple effect. People see it, our families see it, our friends see it, and we can positively influence others and advance God's kingdom.” - John Putnam
Resources Mentioned:

• Get your free “Get Recession Ready” mini-course at https://changeforyourdollar.com/
• Free Goal Achievement Supercharger Lessons & Worksheets

Let’s continue the conversation!
Connect to Smarter Stewardship at https://smarterstewardship.com/ and gain access to resources that will help you stay in the loop for resources that will actively help you shape your financial future.
If you’re interested in growing in your faith, wealth, and life, visit https://changeforyourdollar.com/ for all the tools you need from coaching and speaking to my latest book, He Spends, She Spends!
If this blessed you today, please Subscribe, Leave a Review, and Share with someone who you believe will benefit from this message!
Contact John:
Website: https://changeforyourdollar.com/
Website: https://smarterstewardship.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarterstewardship
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smarterstewardship

TIme to energize your money goals!
Do you know the story of Derek Redmond, the runner in the 1992 Olympics who overcame adversity with his father's help? In the same way, there is help for you to achieve your faithful financial stewardship goals. I'll share three tips to keep you energized and encouraged on your financial goal achievement. Keep on track with your goals and remember that you're not alone in achieving them. You can do this!
In this episode, John discusses:

• Encouragement and biblical wisdom for achieving financial goals
• Lessons for financial stewardship from the inspirational story of Derek Redmond
• Overcoming challenges in pursuit of long-term financial objectives
• Three tips for staying motivated and seeking help on your financial journey

Key Takeaways:

• The story of Derek Redmond and his father's unwavering support serves as a powerful reminder that even when we encounter setbacks and challenges, our heavenly Father is always by our side, guiding us toward our financial aspirations.
• To stay motivated and focused on long-term financial objectives, reinforce your daily spiritual disciplines, remember your why, and ask for help from an accountability partner or money buddy.
• When you incorporate spiritual practices, find your true purpose again, and reach out for support in overcoming challenges and achieving your goals, it becomes smoother to navigate the challenging middle phase of your financial journey.
• Experiencing setbacks and hurdles is a natural part of the path of financial stewardship, yet with the God’s comforting presence and strength, you can stay resilient and steadily advance towards your wise and faithful financial goals.

“Stay in the game. The finish line is there, you can do it. So reinforce those daily spiritual disciplines.”
Resources Mentioned:

• Get your free “Get Recession Ready” mini-course at https://changeforyourdollar.com/
• Free Goal Achievement Supercharger Lessons & Worksheets

Let’s continue the conversation!
Connect to Smarter Stewardship at https://smarterstewardship.com/ and gain access to resources that will help you stay in the loop for resources that will actively help you shape your financial future.
If you’re interested in growing in your faith, wealth, and life , visit https://changeforyourdollar.com/ for all the tools you need from coaching and speaking to my latest book, He Spends, She Spends!
If this blessed you today, please Subscribe, Leave a Review, and Share with someone who you believe will benefit from this message!
Contact John:
Website: https://changeforyourdollar.com/
Website: https://smarterstewarship.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarterstewardship
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smarterstewardship

Financial storms and uncertainty are real and can evoke fear and doubt. But, how does fear affect us and how do we navigate through these storms? It's normal to feel fear during our own financial uncertainties and turbulent times. However, are we allowing negative fear to consume us, or are we harnessing fear to focus our resources and plan wisely? In this episode, I take inspiration from a story set in the tempestuous Sea of Galilee, where Jesus and his disciples faced a raging storm. Let us remember that Jesus calls us to not fear, and we can find solace in his presence and grace.In this episode, John discusses:● Trusting Jesus' care amidst financial and real storms
● How our response to fear in times of uncertainty can shape our decisions
● Drawing insights from the disciples' experience on the Sea of Galilee (Mark 4:35-41)
● Embracing the presence of Jesus as a source of comfort and strength during financial hardships
Key Takeaways:
● When the disciples asked Jesus amidst the storm, "Don't you care if we drown?", it exposed their underlying doubts about Jesus' care and love, a question that frequently troubles us during difficult times.
● Reflecting on the storm Jesus and the disciples faced, we find parallels in current financial uncertainty, reminding us to confront our fears, trust in Jesus' care, and navigate through the impending tough times with faith.
● Throughout history, humanity has weathered numerous storms, demonstrating our resilience in the face of adversity, and it is essential to acknowledge and anticipate our ability to overcome the challenges of the present.
● Fear can either paralyze us or sharpen our focus; by harnessing fear in a positive way, we can make thoughtful decisions, conserve resources, and plan effectively, finding strength in our faith and the presence of Jesus.“Whether the storm is mild or rough, Jesus is in the boat with you. He cares about you. He wants what's best for you, and you know that he loves you, and he asks us to do not fear.”
- John Putnam
Resources Mentioned:
● Get your free “Get Recession Ready” mini-course at https://changeforyourdollar.com/
Let’s continue the conversation!
Connect to Smarter Stewardship at https://smarterstewardship.com/ and gain access to resources that will help you stay in the loop for resources that will actively help you shape your financial future.
If you’re interested in growing in your faith, wealth, and life, visit https://changeforyourdollar.com/ for all the tools you need from coaching and speaking to my latest book, He Spends, She Spends!
If this blessed you today, please Subscribe, Leave a Review, and Share with someone who you believe will benefit from this message!
Contact John:Website: https://changeforyourdollar.com/
Website: https://smarterstewarship.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarterstewardship Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smarterstewardship

What happens when you “hold a dollar in your hand”? When you’re faced with a financial decision? What to do?
Today, I reflect on an old story in the context of five general money tendencies. We'll dive into them and how they relate to our faith and finances. Each of us has our own mix of these tendencies, but ultimately, relying on the influence of God’s truth and faithful actions are the key to wise stewardship!
In this episode, John discusses:
● Exploring the five general money tendencies
● Navigating the relationship between faith and finances
● Lessons on perception and money tendencies from "The Blind Men and the Elephant"
● The power of being a wise and faithful steward of our money and lives
Key Takeaways:
● Exploring the relationship between faith and finances requires finding a balance between over-simplification and over-complication, acknowledging the complexities while seeking simplicity
● Reflecting on "The Blind Men and the Elephant" story, it becomes evident that diverse perspectives on money, like the blind men's views of the elephant, can lead to both partial truths and misunderstandings, emphasizing the need for a nuanced conversation on faith and finances.
● Understanding your money tendencies can provide valuable insights into your financial behavior: are you a giver, spender, saver, builder, or planner when you hold money in your hands? Recognizing your primary instinct can help shape your financial decisions.
● Embracing our role as faithful stewards and followers of Jesus in handling our money and all areas of our lives allows us to unlock our greatest potential for success and wise decision-making.
“Whenever we hold dollars in our hands, just like in any other area of our lives, our first tendency should be to follow Jesus. This gives us the greatest chance for success, allowing us to be wise, smart, and faithful stewards not only of our money but also of our lives and the opportunities he puts in our paths.” - John Putnam
Resources Mentioned:
● CLICK ON THIS LINK to get your free “ Vacation Maximization Guide ”
● Free Goal Achievement Supercharger Lessons & Worksheets Let’s continue the conversation! Connect to Smarter Stewardship at https://smarterstewardship.com/ and gain access to resources that will help you stay in the loop for resources that will actively help you shape your financial future
If you’re interested in growing in your faith, wealth, and life, visit https://changeforyourdollar.com/ for all the tools you need from coaching and speaking to my latest book, He Spends, She Spends!If this blessed you today, please Subscribe,
Leave a Review, and Share with someone who you believe will benefit from this message!
Contact John: Website: https://changeforyourdollar.com/Website: https://smarterstewarship.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarterstewardshipFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/smarterstewardship

Have you ever been ON vacation, but not AT vacation? We’ve all been there. It can take days to let go of our daily routines and truly embrace the joy of being away. I’m here to help with five INVALUABLE tips to help you stay present during your vacation. A vacation should be more than just a break from work; it should be a rejuvenating and restful time that leaves you feeling clear-minded and ready to tackle anything upon your return. As we wrap up this series, I hope these insights and recommendations have resonated with you, inspiring a spiritual connection and a renewed focus on making your vacation truly extraordinary. So let's dive in and discover how you can position yourself for the BEST vacation experience yet!
In this episode, John discusses:
● Five tips for maximizing and being present on your vacation
● The transformative power of embracing a mindset of gratitude and joy during vacations (Psalm 118:24)
● Reflecting on the Vacation Maximization series: Setting expectations, preparation, family focus, and being present each day
● Remember to download your Vacation Maximization Guide at ChangeForYourDollar.com
Key Takeaways:
● Maximize your vacation by prioritizing God, starting each day with prayer, disconnecting from work, being flexible, and staying financially present.
● If at all possible, don’t let work sneak into your vacation—be present and maximize every moment of rest and rejuvenation to return clear-minded and ready to tackle your tasks with joy.
● Embrace each day of your vacation with a grateful and joyful mindset, rejoicing in the blessings of rest and rejuvenation that come from being fully present. (Psalm 118:24)
● Immerse yourself in this Vacation Maximization series to center your vacation around God, set expectations, prepare diligently, be present, and experience the blessings of your best vacation ever. “ My prayer for you is that before your vacation, on your vacation, and even when you get back from your vacation, that you would be closer to God, closer with each other, and have experienced the blessing of your best vacation ever. ” - John Putnam
Resources Mentioned:
● CLICK ON THIS LINK your free “ Vacation Maximization Guide ”
● Free Goal Achievement Supercharger Lessons & Worksheets
Let’s continue the conversation! Connect to Smarter Stewardship at https://smarterstewardship.com/ and gain access to resources that will help you stay in the loop for resources that will actively help you shape your financial future.
If you’re interested in growing in your faith, wealth, and life, visit https://changeforyourdollar.com/ for all the tools you need from coaching and speaking to my latest book, He Spends, She Spends!
If this blessed you today, please Subscribe, Leave a Review, and Share with someone who you believe will benefit from this message!
Contact John:
Website: https://changeforyourdollar.com/Website: https://smarterstewarship.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarterstewardshipFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/smarterstewardship