The Money Minister

Send us a textWelcome back to the Money Minister, the podcast where we deal with Christian questions about money and following Jesus, relying on the Bible and the Holy Spirit for insight into our lives. Today, we’re talking about an intense topic that I work through with people pretty often. When I’m working with Christians, whether they make $2000 per month or $40,000 per month or somewhere in between, we end up talking about the guilt they’re feeling making money and prioritizing their financial health. Some people tell me that money is the root of all evil. Have you heard that one? Other people tell me that they can’t walk around their city without feeling this weight of guilt washing over them when they see others who are not as fortunate. Guilt is a heavy emotion. When we start to do better for ourselves, it can feel really good at times, and it can also feel like we’re doing something wrong. I know I felt shame at first when I started making in the top 5% of incomes in the United States. It’s hard to be in this world, seeing all the terrible things that happen and realizing that people want what you have. Most people, when they feel the guilt that comes with making more money, they do one of a few things:They either hide and stay to themselves, avoiding guilt by not going out into the world anymore.Or they go out and pretend like they don’t have money, leading to a little more guilt because they feel like they’re deceiving the people around themOr they start giving a LOT of money away, much more than their tithe and usually creating a dependency problem with their friends or family. If you’ve felt this guilt, what was your first reaction?This episode works through how to view money as God's blessing, steward God's wealth well, and dedicate our whole hearts and lives to Jesus without denying God's blessings in our lives.Book a free coaching session: https://www.saverstreet.com/free-consultationsaverstreet.comcatherine.vanderlaan@saverstreet.comFB: @SaverStreetIG: @saver.street

Send us a textIn this episode, we discuss the tension between being told we have to tithe and being told we should be cheerful givers.We dive into scripture in 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 to listen to what God said through Paul to the Corinthian church in his third letter to them. There's a lost letter, so 2 Corinthians is largely believed to be Paul's third letter.Let's figure out how to change our minds and hearts to become cheerful givers. We'll talk through how to figure out if God has given you enough to give and what God means when he asks us to be cheerful givers.Book a free coaching session: https://www.saverstreet.com/free-consultationsaverstreet.comcatherine.vanderlaan@saverstreet.comFB: @SaverStreetIG: @saver.street

Send us a textI'm going to get in trouble for this one. I'm sure of it. Are financial roles within a Christian marriage preordained by scripture, or is there more to the story? What does the Bible say?Let's shatter some long-held misconceptions together as we explore the intersection of faith and finances on the Money Minister podcast. Your host, Catherine Van Der Laan, financial coach and aspiring minister, guides you through the often-misunderstood Proverbs 31 and what it truly suggests about the economic partnership in a marriage. Prepare to be inspired by the example of the wife of noble character and how she exemplifies financial acumen, regardless of gender expectations. We tackle the tough questions head-on, offering insights that promise more harmony in your financial and marital life.This episode is not just about debunking myths; it's a call to foster communication, teamwork, and the discovery of financial truths that align with both scripture and personal well-being. We examine the lives of biblical couples like Aquila and Priscilla and their harmonious approach contrasted against the cautionary tale of Ananias and Sapphira. It's time to move past fear-based motivations in managing money within marriage and, instead, embrace the strength found in unity. Join us as we chart a path towards financial wisdom that does more than just align with scripture – it reinforces the bonds of marriage and deepens your connection with God.Book a free coaching session: https://www.saverstreet.com/free-consultationsaverstreet.comcatherine.vanderlaan@saverstreet.comFB: @SaverStreetIG: @saver.street

Send us a textCan you still give to others even when you're drowning in debt? In this touching episode, we share the story of a woman who found herself struggling with debt and job prospects. Through our coaching sessions, we embarked on a journey to explore the heart of giving for Christians, using the widow's offering in the Bible as a model for us to follow... all while getting her completely out of debt. We delve deeper into the challenges of giving when burdened by debt, discussing the distinction between giving out of love and giving out of obligation. We also emphasize the importance of financial discipline and trusting in God's plan, even in the most difficult financial situations. Listen in as we uncover how to prioritize giving, both in time and money, and how God will call you to greater faith, love, and service as you draw closer to Him.In our conversation, we also touch on the topic of tithing and explore how, in the New Testament, there is no biblical command to tithe but rather to give out of love and within your means. Join us as we navigate the complexities of giving when in debt, and learn how to trust and rely on God's guidance and provision in even the toughest of circumstances.Book a free coaching session: https://www.saverstreet.com/free-consultationsaverstreet.comcatherine.vanderlaan@saverstreet.comFB: @SaverStreetIG: @saver.street

Send us a textEver felt overwhelmed or unequipped to share your faith with your colleagues at work? Fear not! We're here to guide you through the challenging topic of being a Christian in a secular workplace, and leading others to Christ without getting fired. As your hosts, Catherine Van Der Laan and Erica Fluckus, we're on a mission to empower Christians in the workplace to break free from fear and embrace their calling to be a light in their office.Together, we'll explore practical steps to take bold steps of faith in the workplace, from praying for your colleagues to meeting them where they are and following God's guidance. Drawing on Jesus' example of loving those He encountered and building relationships with them, we'll discuss how you can be an effective witness in your office, regardless of your occupation. So, join us in this inspiring conversation and discover the joy of living out your faith at work, all while staying employed!Book a free coaching session: https://www.saverstreet.com/free-consultationsaverstreet.comcatherine.vanderlaan@saverstreet.comFB: @SaverStreetIG: @saver.street

Send us a textDo you ever struggle with asking for a raise, especially as a Christian? You're not alone! We're diving into the challenges Christians face when advocating for themselves in the workplace and how the story of Joseph demonstrates that faith, integrity, and work ethic can lead to success. Prepare to be inspired by Joseph's steadfast commitment to God while discovering practical steps for asking for a raise, including finding your KPOs or KPIs, rating yourself on those, and researching the next role.In this enlightening episode, we also discuss the difference between asking for a raise and a market adjustment, as well as when to approach your boss about it.  Performance reviews can be an excellent opportunity to demonstrate initiative and discuss recognition, so make sure you're prepared! Most importantly, we shed light on the significance of prayer and stepping out in faith when seeking a raise. Remember that it's not about buying a Maserati, but rather asking for resources to help, serve, and be present. So, tune in and learn how to embrace your worth as a child of God and effectively ask for a raise!Book a free coaching session: https://www.saverstreet.com/free-consultationsaverstreet.comcatherine.vanderlaan@saverstreet.comFB: @SaverStreetIG: @saver.street

Send us a textIs it wrong for a Christian to be rich? This thought-provoking question drives our conversation in this episode as we, Catherine Van Der Laan and Erica Fluckus, explore the two opposing opinions held within the church. We discuss how God talks about money in the Bible and share the inspiring story of one of Catherine's multimillionaire clients who uses his wealth to serve God and give Him glory. Join us as we examine the biblical figure of Abraham, a wealthy Christian, and how his example relates to this question.In our exploration, we also delve into Jesus' interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well and the importance of using money to serve the Lord. We consider the temptations of the devil, the significance of obedience, and how our hearts should be focused on God rather than money. Listen in as we reflect on the armor that God has given us to resist temptation and protect us from the devil's schemes in this insightful conversation on the relationship between Christianity and wealth.Book a free coaching session: https://www.saverstreet.com/free-consultationsaverstreet.comcatherine.vanderlaan@saverstreet.comFB: @SaverStreetIG: @saver.street

Send us a textHave you ever wondered how to manage your finances in a way that aligns with your Christian faith? Join us, Catherine Van Der Laan and Erica Fluckus, as we share life-changing insights on money management and giving from a Christian perspective. We'll explore how following God's plan for our finances can lead to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.In this eye-opening episode, we discuss the importance of planning, budgeting, and trusting God's direction for our financial journey. We share the story of a client who, with our guidance, discovered clarity and purpose in her financial life, embracing God's promises for her. Discover why planning and budgeting are crucial for freeing ourselves to give generously and live joyfully, and how to prioritize tithing in our lives without testing God's trust. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable wisdom on navigating the world of finances as a Christian!Book a free coaching session: https://www.saverstreet.com/free-consultationsaverstreet.comcatherine.vanderlaan@saverstreet.comFB: @SaverStreetIG: @saver.street

Send us a textAre you aligned with God's plan for your finances? Join Erica Fluckus and Catherine Van Der Laan as we unpack the importance of understanding God's intentions for our money and share our personal experiences of divine guidance in our financial choices.Discover the life-changing story of Joseph, who, despite being thrown into circumstances beyond his control, remained faithful and followed God's plan. We also explore the 'mansion exercise' to align our hearts with God's desires and dive into the passions He has placed within us. As we examine the significance of having a plan when it comes to managing God's wealth, we'll discuss how pastors prepare their sermons and how to remain receptive to God's plans for us.Finally, we'll share powerful lessons on giving and obedience, emphasizing the need to trust God and follow His guidance, even when we don't understand the reasoning behind it. We'll discuss how God uses our circumstances to reveal His plans and share an incredible testimony of a five-figure gift request that was met with God's surprising abundance. Tune in and open your heart to uncovering God's plan for your finances and learning how to align your actions with His desires.Book a free coaching session: https://www.saverstreet.com/free-consultationsaverstreet.comcatherine.vanderlaan@saverstreet.comFB: @SaverStreetIG: @saver.street

Send us a textAre you struggling to reconcile your relationship with money and your faith? You're not alone. In today's episode, Erica Fluckus, a life coach, career coach, and coordinator with a nonprofit, as well as a dedicated Christian and seminary graduate, and Catherine Van Der Laan, financial coach and minister-in-training, talk through what it means to navigate money and faith decisions. Together, we explore the intersection between money and faith, diving into what God says about managing money and how Jesus came to save us from our sinful relationships.We discuss how money is a reflection of our hearts and a tool of worship, examining the importance of tithing and giving to others in need while keeping our hearts fully devoted to God. We also consider the connection between money and the Christian heart and the spiritual impact of money trauma. By sharing practical ways to create a healthy relationship with money and faith, we aim to help you navigate this challenging topic and align your financial decisions with God's word.Join us for this enlightening conversation as we uncover the true meaning of money in the eyes of God and how we can best manage it according to His will. Through examining over 2,000 verses in the Bible directly related to money (in the podcast, not in this one episode!), we hope to provide valuable insights and guidance to help you on your journey toward a healthier, more faithful relationship with your finances. So tune in, and let's grow together in understanding God's perspective on money and its role in our lives.Book a free coaching session: https://www.saverstreet.com/free-consultationsaverstreet.comcatherine.vanderlaan@saverstreet.comFB: @SaverStreetIG: @saver.street