Where Your Treasure Is...

In the concluding episode of the ‘Money According to the Bible’ season, Simon and Bex discuss various points made in the final books of the Bible about wealth, possessions and our attitudes towards them.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Bex starts off by noting the prominence given to Moses in the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 11.24-28) as a result of his decision to place his faith in God rather than relying on the wealth and status to which he was entitled. [01:31]The focus then turns to the Book of James, starting off with his call to put belief into action and to ‘walk the walk’ as well as ‘talking the talk’, as illustrated by his words in chapter 2 verses 14-17. [05:48]James expands on the nature of ‘religion’ that is ‘pure and faultless (James 1.27) by stressing the importance of acting out of humility and without any selfish motivation (James 3.13-16). [09:34]James’s warning and strong words for ‘the rich’ (James 5.1-6) prompt Bex and Simon to reflect on the implications for us and for modern society as far as issues such as fair pay, fair trade and ethical shopping are concerned. [12:23]The final point that Simon highlights from the Book of James is the emphasis placed on adopting a God-focused attitude - ‘if it is the Lord’s will’ – as a crucial element of our decision-making processes (James 4.13-17). [16:28] Prompted by the words of 1 Peter 2.18-20, Bex asks Simon for his thoughts on how we should respond when we encounter unfairness in our lives. [18:17]In response to the warning about idols found in Revelation 9.20, Bex and Simon discuss the modern-day preoccupations that can replace God’s rightful place in our lives. [21:55]Simon draws attention to the fact that our attitude to money has been a key theme throughout this podcast season and that it is no surprise, therefore, that the final book of the Bible includes statements designed to turn around our perception of riches and wealth (Revelation 2.9 and 3.17). [24:30]The recurring theme of stewardship is also revisited and reinforced in a passage about the judgment of the dead (Revelation 20.11-12). [25:21]Season 7 of the ‘Where Your Treasure Is…’ podcast is likely to return to matters relating to practical financial planning. In the meantime, listeners should watch out for a couple of bonus episodes that will be coming up soon. [27:55]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

In the penultimate episode of the ‘Money According to the Bible’ season, Simon and Bex discuss various points made in the Letters of Paul about wealth, possessions and our attitudes towards them.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Simon explains that the focus of this episode will be on the money-related themes covered by Paul in his letters to new and developing churches [02:02]. Bex notes that a major point picked up by Paul is God’s ownership over everything, to which he draws attention in verses such as Romans 11.36 (“For from him and through him and for him are all things”) and 1 Corinthians 10.26 (in which Psalm 24.1 is quoted: “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.”). [02:44]A second major, recurring theme, as highlighted in 2 Corinthians 9.6-15 for example, is that of giving generously and cheerfully. [04:20]Prompted by comments made in 1 Timothy 5.17-18 and then in Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 2.9 & 2 Thessalonians 3.7-9), Bex asks Simon what he thinks Paul is saying about the kind of financial provision that should, or should not, be made for church leaders and teachers. [08:24]Bex and Simon discuss the implications of Paul’s inclusion of generosity in the list of spiritual gifts that he provides in Romans 12.6-8. [12:17]Simon refers to 1 Timothy 6.6-10 (which includes the well-known statement, “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.”) when talking about the need to train our hearts to be disposed towards ‘giving’ rather than ‘wanting’. [16:52]Simon identifies one final progression that is required to complete the journey of our hearts in their relationship with money: the importance of being motivated by love in all that we do, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 13. [18:50]Simon draws attention to some of Paul’s other observations about money, wealth and possessions in his letters, including comments on issues relating to the workplace. [20:30]Quoting 2 Corinthians 12.14 (“Children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.”), Bex asks Simon what the financial relationship between parents - especially as they grow older - and their children should be. [24:11]When wrapping up the episode, Simon refers to 1 Timothy 6 again – verses 17-19 on this occasion – to emphasise the importance of the recurring message from the Bible that we should not rely on money but should regard it as a tool or a resource, instead placing our trust in God. [26:21]The final episode of this season will explore what the books of the New Testament that haven’t been covered yet, including the Book of Revelation, have to say about money. [28:33]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

In the sixth episode of the ‘Money According to the Bible’ season, Simon and Bex discuss various points made in the Book of Acts about wealth, possessions and our attitudes towards them.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Bex and Simon introduce this episode, which explores what we can learn from the way that the early church dealt with money and possessions, as described in the Book of Acts. [00:54]Bex begins by asking Simon for his thoughts on two very well-known passages in Acts (Acts 2.42-47 and Acts 4.32-37), which describe the willingness of members of the community of believers to sell all they possessed for the benefit of others. [02:37]Simon brings in the story of Ananias and Sapphira from Acts 5 to illustrate how things can go badly wrong when underlying principles of honesty, trust and community are disregarded. [07:54]Simon and Bex reflect on the example provided by Paul, in Acts 28 and Acts 18 respectively, of an attitude of holding money, possessions and a home lightly, and also of working his passage as a tentmaker despite his priority being to preach the gospel. [11:00] Bex highlights the approach taken in Acts 6 towards providing for the widows, who were a particularly vulnerable group in society at that time. By appointing additional leaders and delegating responsibilities and tasks, the disciples found a way of meeting that need while also ensuring that they were able to continue spreading the message of hope and good news available through Jesus. [16:03] The account of Cornelius and his appeal to Peter in Acts 10 shows how one individual’s generosity and softness of heart can be used by God to produce positive and far-reaching consequences. [20:03] Simon wraps up the episode by quoting the words of Paul from Acts 20.32-35: “Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified. I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing. You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ” There will be more from Paul in the next episode of this season as it will focus on ‘Money According to the Letters of Paul. [23:37]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

In the fifth episode of the ‘Money According to the Bible’ season, Simon and Bex discuss various points made by Jesus about wealth, possessions and our attitudes towards them.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:When introducing the episode, Simon and Bex note that Jesus spoke extensively about attitudes towards wealth, money and possessions during his ministry and did so in a manner that was new and radical at the time. [00:36]To start off, various points are drawn out of the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25.14-30 & Luke 19.12-27), especially the emphasis that is placed on being a good, wise and effective steward of resources by using money received wisely and effectively in support of the purpose for which it was given. [04:11]When it comes to the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10.25-37), it is suggested that the key message being put across is that what is important is not our role, status or wealth but how we use what we have. In this example, it is the understated and less ‘noteworthy’ individual who shows up his more ‘illustrious’ co-travellers by his instinctively generous action in putting aside personal inconvenience and risk to come to the aid of a victim of circumstances who has been abandoned to his fate. [09:40]The crucial importance of attitude is further illustrated in the parable of The Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18.10-14) and also by the example of sacrificial giving provided in the account of The Widow’s Offering (Mark 12.41-43 & Luke 21.1-4). [11:11]Simon then draws attention to the message conveyed via the Parable of the Hidden Treasure and the Parable of the Pearl (Matthew 13.44-45): that our perception of what is truly ‘valuable’ is subject to change when it is placed alongside something of infinite value. And when that happens, it is not just money but also reputation, power and authority that are worth sacrificing in pursuit of that new goal. [15:35]Bex asks Simon to comment on two seemingly contradictory parables associated with wealth and forward planning: the Parable of the Tower (Luke 14.28-30) and the Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12.13-21). Simon’s suggestion is that the distinguishing factor between the two situations is likely to be the motivation behind each of these enterprises as it seems that the second endeavour was much more of a self-serving activity than the former. [18:47]The final Bible extract explored in this episode is Matthew 6.19-21, from which the name of this podcast is derived. Simon sums up the message of this passage as being an encouragement to put our money where God wants it to go, which will have the outcome of drawing us closer to God and His purposes. [23:07]Bex warmly invites comments and feedback before eliciting from Simon that next week’s episode will consider what the Book of Acts says about money. [25:14]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

In the fourth episode of the ‘Money According to the Bible’ season, Simon and Bex discuss various points about attitudes to wealth and possessions that are highlighted by the Old Testament Prophets.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Bex starts off the episode by remarking that, through verses such as Haggai 2.8 and Jeremiah 27.5, the Prophets continue a key theme that has run throughout the rest of the Old Testament: that everything belongs to God and our role is to be responsible and diligent in the way that we steward, on His behalf, the resources which have been entrusted to us. [02:15]Simon then uses the example of Isaiah being given a message by God for King Cyrus to highlight the importance of understanding the context in which the Prophets operated. [03:10]Simon refers to Amos 8 to illustrate another recurring theme of the Old Testament: the importance of putting God first rather than allowing greed and a preoccupation with acquiring wealth to become the factors that determine and drive our behaviour. [06:00] Encouragement to adopt a different, and life-giving, approach - of handling our possessions with integrity and as faithful stewards – is conveyed in Malachi 3.7-11. [08:13]Daniel is then introduced as a case study of an individual who consistently displayed integrity and obedience to God, even when subjected to highly challenging situations and pressures from the foreign, and very intimidating, rulers whom he was serving: Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar and Darius. [11:35]Simon wraps up the episode by suggesting that we can learn all kinds of things from the Prophets, including – thanks to Hezekiah’s experience, as recounted in Isaiah 38 – prompts that may cause us to reflect on ways in which we might come to terms with our own mortality. [19:02]In the next episode, the focus will switch to the New Testament and, in particular, to what Jesus had to say about money. [21:42]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

In the third episode of the ‘Money According to the Bible’ season, Simon and Bex discuss various points about wealth and possessions that are highlighted by the Old Testament Poets.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Simon and Bex introduce the episode, with Bex commenting that The Bible Project has helpful resources that can assist us to understand and appreciate the various literary styles used in the Bible. [00:54]Simon starts off by sharing some reflections on the key biblical theme of stewardship, prompted by Psalm 24.1, one of his favourite money-related verses from the Bible: ‘The Earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the World, and all who live in it’. [02:57]For Bex, the poetic extract that immediately captured a significant theme for her – in this instance, the importance of dealing with debt promptly and effectively - was Proverbs 3.27-28: ‘Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. Do not say to your neighbour, “Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you”— when you already have it with you.’ [05:35]Bex and Simon discuss the Book of Ecclesiastes and the striking approach taken by the writer in using poetic form to highlight aspects of the human condition, including the frustration and sense of futility that can be experienced if God and His principles are ignored. [09:55]A number of intriguing and thought-provoking comments are made in Proverbs about attitudes and behaviour relating to work and how we go about our daily business, prompting Bex and Simon to delve into what this book of the Bible has to say about those topics. [16:42]Bex asks Simon for his thoughts on the ‘wife of noble character’ from Proverbs 31, who is held up as an example for others to follow not only in a domestic context but also in business and trade endeavours. [20:41]Simon concludes by commenting on one passage from Job and another from the Song of Songs. [25:42]The next episode in this season will explore what the Old Testament Prophets have to say about money and possessions. [29:29]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

In the second episode of the ‘Money According to the Bible’ season, Simon and Bex discuss various points about wealth and possessions that are highlighted in the Old Testament Books of History.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Simon identifies the Old Testament Books of History and then previews some of the topics that will be covered in the episode. [00:42]David’s passion for giving generously to support the building of the temple, as described in 1 Chronicles 29, is used to draw attention to the importance that is attached throughout the Bible to being a cheerful, enthusiastic and committed giver. [03:39]Obedience and selfless integrity when dealing with financial matters is also noted as a key theme throughout the History books [06:42] and is exemplified by Samuel’s challenge to Saul in 1 Samuel 15.22 that ‘To obey is better than sacrifice’. [09:33]The story of Ruth is then used to illustrate the far-reaching and positive consequences of (i) the gleaning arrangements that, under Old Testament Law, are designed to support the poor, and (ii) the godly actions of a wealthy individual in the form of Boaz, who behaves with such compassion and integrity. [16:16]By contrast, Haman, in the Book of Esther, is the epitome of a talented, wealthy and influential figure who falls foul of events, having allowed his power and position to undermine his judgement. Meanwhile, Esther demonstrates what can be achieved by those are willing to sacrifice everything and place their trust in God. [20:33]In Simon’s concluding comments, he observes that the History Books of the Old Testament provide us with many examples of God’s people failing to hold land, possessions or wealth lightly, creating much frustration, disappointment and pain for themselves as a consequence. [24:19]The focus of the next episode will be on money-related themes that were emphasised by the Poets of the Old Testament. [25:37]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

In the first episode of this season on ‘Money According to the Bible’, Simon and Bex identify key themes that are introduced in the Old Testament Books of the Law.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Simon explains that this new season of the podcast will explore what the Bible says about money by tracing key themes as they emerge and develop through the Old and New Testaments. He has been helped in this endeavour by being able to draw on a resource produced by Howard Dayton called ‘2350 Verses on Money and Possessions’. [02:54]This episode identifies some key themes that are introduced in the Old Testament Books of the Law (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy). [03:54]Simon notes that the topic of how much we should give is mentioned early on in the Bible, with the concept of donating a tithe (a tenth) of our wealth to God receiving a mention as early as Genesis 14. [06:07]Bex then goes on to remark that while the expectation that God’s people will give is in the process of being formalised into a legal requirement, there is also very strong emphasis on generosity and a willingness to give being crucial ingredients. This point is illustrated with reference to Exodus 35, a chapter which also provides examples of other themes which will go on to be significant throughout the Bible, including (i) giving not being restricted to money, and (ii) the contribution that creativity can make to giving. [10:16]Two other key principles are identified: the importance of prioritising giving to God by setting aside ‘first fruits’ for Him; and the importance of providing for those in need, for example by means of a ‘Sabbath Year’ from which they can benefit. [13:49]Simon draws attention to the thought-provoking and challenging concept of the Year of Jubilee (the ’Sabbath of Sabbaths’) as outlined in Leviticus 25, which embodies principles of social justice, debt relief and stewardship. [18:38]When wrapping up this episode, Bex and Simon talk about the opportunities and challenges that arise from the theme that is developed in the Bible of there being a ‘Promised Land’ for God’s people. [22:46]Finally, Simon lists a number of other themes relating to money, wealth and possessions (including investing, borrowing and debt) that are brought to our attention within the first five books of the Bible. [25:04]The next episode in this season will explore what the Books of History in the Old Testament have to say about money. [26:08]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

Drawing on a number of examples from history, Simon and Bex discuss the amazing impact that generous giving can have on individuals, communities and society as a whole.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Simon starts off by describing the very significant, but not widely known, role of Humphrey Monmouth (a wealthy cloth merchant) in spreading the gospel as a result of his financial support of Bible translator, William Tyndale, during the first part of the 16th century. Monmouth’s story is one of a number of interesting and inspiring accounts included by John Rinehart in his book, Gospel Patrons. [02:18]Simon’s second tale of the impact of individual generosity features 18th century businessman, John Thornton, a supporter of many charitable causes, who provided the financial and practical assistance that made it viable for former slave trader, John Newton, to publish his first book of hymns, which included ‘Amazing Grace’. [07:16]Simon describes the improved conditions and facilities for workers initiated by businessman and social reformer, George Cadbury, at Bourneville before going on to recount the part played by another member of the Cadbury family, Sir Adrian Cadbury, in the building of the first purpose-built Serbian Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom. [10:26]A salutary tale of the importance of consistency and acting with integrity in every circumstance comes in the form of the mixed legacy arising from the various endeavours and activities of William Lever (Lord Leverhulme). On the one hand, he created in Port Sunlight a widely admired model village, founded on Christian principles; and, on the other hand, his reputation has been seriously compromised not only because he could be uncomfortably paternalistic in his attitudes but, most significantly, because of his links to slave labour in the Solomon Islands and the Belgian Congo. [16:03]In Simon’s final historical example, he brings his narrative full circle by giving an example of modern philanthropists, the Laing Family, who have supported and extended the work of sharing biblical knowledge and understanding that had been started by William Tyndale and Humphrey Monmouth. [21:15]Simon concludes by sharing his own experience of being a recipient of generosity and the impact that it had upon him. [26:37]The ‘Where Your Treasure Is…’ podcast will return with Season 6 early in 2024. In the meantime, a couple of bonus episodes on the theme of ‘Giving’ will air before Christmas. [30:50]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

Simon and Bex discuss the different attitudes that we can have to giving and how that can influence when we give. Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Simon explains that, originally, the focus of this episode was to have been on the question of ‘When to give?’ but, ultimately, it went on to explore wider issues, notably the different kinds of attitudes that we can have towards giving. [00:27]Simon identifies four broad categories into which givers can fall, with each one being the result of a specific attitude that has been adopted towards giving. He suggests that the first type of giver can be described as being desultory, because they have a tendency to be haphazard and irregular in their giving. [02:40]A second possible approach towards giving is exemplified by the deliberate giver. [08:22]In a brief aside, Simon notes that other ways of categorising levels of giving have been devised in the past, most notably by the twelfth century Jewish scholar, Maimonides. [11:00]Next up in Simon’s scale is disciplined giving. [13:36]And finally, Simon describes the characteristics of the dedicated giver, as illustrated by the sacrificial giving of the Macedonian church that is described in 2 Corinthians chapter 8. [17:07]Simon explains that the final episode of this season on Giving will feature various stories from history that he hopes will demonstrate how powerful the impact can be when God’s people give freely and generously. [22:24]Contributions, suggestions or feedback in response to this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

Simon and Bex discuss various practical and strategic points relating to giving as they discuss the question, ‘How much should we give?’Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Bex begins the episode by mentioning biblical principles relating to giving that have been covered in discussions to date. Simon explains that, on this occasion, his emphasis is going to be on practical and context-sensitive factors that can help us to implement our giving in an effective, efficient and appropriate manner. [00:42]One point to take into account is the tendency of our giving to depreciate ‘in real terms’ over time if it remains at the same amount. For that reason, it makes sense to review our giving regularly, taking account of that factor and other relevant considerations. [02:35]Being clear about your priorities when giving to charities and causes will help you to make appropriate and strategic decisions about how much to give and whether your giving in specific instances should take the form of a one-off gift or regular donations. [08:37]Building on previous discussions, Simon highlights the importance of thinking through carefully how much time we should give to various causes and activities. [12:53] He uses a personal example to illustrate the kind of approach that can be adopted to ensure that there is helpful clarity and openness about commitments to give time. [15:53]Simon includes the following points in his concluding remarks: giving should be a priority and should be responsive to what is ‘normal’ as far as your spending patterns are concerned; it should be sacrificial and it should take into account how much you have left over after you have given; and it should be done thoughtfully and strategically, for example by allocating resources with awareness that gifts may achieve more in certain contexts compared with others. [20:47]The next episode in this season will deal with the question of when to give. [24:27]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

Simon and Bex discuss the factors that come into play when we are going through the process of deciding to whom we wish to give.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Simon and Bex start their conversation about to whom to give by discussing which comes first: the decision to give or identifying who we are going to give to? [01:15]Simon introduces the idea of ‘opportunity cost’ because the fact that we have ‘limited resources’ means that we are likely to have to choose between ‘mutually exclusive alternatives’ ie a decision to give in one direction will often rule out a donation towards another possible recipient. [04:32]The key question then becomes: 'What criteria do we use to determine how we should prioritise our giving?', especially when members of our family can be in the mix as one of the options. It is suggested that a giving policy can be really helpful when weighing up the issues prior to making a decision of this nature. [10:10]Simon and Bex begin their consideration of specific giving options by itemising a number of different ways in which we can give to church-related activities. [16:07]Similar decision-making processes also need to be employed when considering to which non-church charities and causes we might want to give. [18:38]In Simon’s concluding remarks, he highlights the importance of being deliberate in our giving, making sure that we are giving effectively and reviewing our giving periodically. [19:47]The question being examined in the next episode of this season will be ‘How much to give?’ [21:12]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

Simon and Bex delve further into the practicalities of Giving, focusing on three further ways in which charitable giving can be made more tax efficient. Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:After a quick recap on Gift Aid [00:50], Simon introduces the three main topics that will be covered in this episode: Give as you Earn/Payroll Giving; Wills and Legacies; Limited Company Donations. [03:15]Simon explains how Give as you Earn/Payroll Giving works [03:46] and then, in response to a question from Bex, goes over the pros and cons of using this option as opposed to Gift Aid. [05:02]Simon then turns his attention to lifetime giving at the point of death (and even after death), which can be managed through wills and legacies. Apart from providing clarity regarding bequests and charitable donations etc, this approach can be of great benefit in connection with any Inheritance Tax factors that may arise. [14:08] NB Bex points out that listeners may find it useful to listen to the conversation with Fiona Clarke, private client solicitor, in Season 3 Bonus Episode 2 as many helpful points relating to wills and legacies are covered during that discussion.Bex asks Simon for his thoughts on balancing lifetime giving with giving solely at the point of death, typically via a will. [20:41]Simon outlines the arrangements that pertain for donations made by limited companies. [22:01]Bex then asks Simon to comment on the pros and cons of one-off gifts compared with regular giving [24:15] and on how best we can ensure that we are accountable in connection with our giving. [25:26]The focus of the next episode in this season will be on ‘Who to give to?’ [28:09]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

Simon and Bex delve into the practicalities of Giving, concentrating on Gift Aid in this episode. Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Bex starts the episode with a quotation emphasising that Giving is essentially a matter of the heart [00:52], and Simon lists 17 approaches to Giving which the Bible encourages us to adopt. [02:03]Simon goes on to explain that the focus in this two-parter is going to be on how to give - specifically on the best way to give money to a charity or organisation, and how the UK tax system can enhance the amount that we give. [03:06]Simon explains the nature of Gift Aid [04:48] and answers some questions from Bex [06:38] regarding the detail of how it works in practice, including how the arrangements can vary depending on the amount of tax paid [11:57] & [18:16].Simon concludes the episode by highlighting a number of additional points relating to Gift Aid that may be of interest to listeners. [20:26]Part 2 of ‘How to Give?’ will explore some other ways in which charitable giving can be made more tax efficient, as well as considering the balance to be struck between lifetime giving and giving at the point of death. [26:19]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

In the second episode of this season on Giving, Simon and Bex discuss what we can give, noting that money is an obvious choice but is by no means the only option.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Simon and Bex start by talking about matters relating to giving money. [01:12]When turning to what we can give other than our money, the first option that Simon and Bex talk about is how we can give our time. [06:20]Prompted by Simon’s comments about volunteering time, Bex asks him to suggest how else we can donate our expertise and skills to a church or charity. [12:42]Simon then comments that we can give our reputation to a cause and goes on to explain the benefits and impact that can come from doing that. [15:15]Simon then talks about a number of practical ways in which we can support charities by donating and selling items and also by buying goods and services from them. [17:06]We can also show love and commitment by giving away ‘space’ in our homes by being hospitable, which some people will extend to providing accommodation for others. [18:22]Simon concludes by suggesting a number of other ways in which we can give, including by giving property, shares, our career and through wills and legacies. [21:03]The next episode will focus on how we give in order to ensure that we are doing so as effectively and efficiently as possible. [24:22]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

In the first episode of this season on Giving, Simon and Bex discuss some basic principles of the topic in response to the question, ‘Why Give?’Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Simon and Bex introduce the topic of Giving by considering some recent statistics about the extent to which people in the UK give to charity and the reasons that people give for donating. [02:15]Reference is made to what the Bible says about Giving, with particular attention being drawn to 2 Corinthians 9.6-11: ‘Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.' [06:04]Simon shares seven advantages of the practice of Giving that were identified by Mark Lloydbottom in his 2009 book, ‘The Money Devotional: 40 Bible Reflections on Money Wealth and Possessions’. [10:03]Time is spent considering whether Christians are under an obligation to give, what our motivations to give should be and how those factors might affect the way that we deal with requests to give. [11:48]Simon draws attention to the fascinating conclusions about using money strategically and generously that are included in the 2014 book, ‘Happy Money’ by Elizabeth Dunn and Michael Norton. [18:37] The positive effects that donating money can have on society are illustrated with reference to the principles outlined in the Old Testament books of Leviticus, Deuteronomy and Ruth (eg Deuteronomy 14.28-29) and by the contemporary benefits and importance of food banks. [22:16]Generosity as a theme is highlighted by reflecting on the positive nature of so many individuals who are generous and also by noting that the Bible encourages us (eg in Romans 12.6-8) to eagerly desire spiritual gifts, including the gift of Giving, with the exhortation being to give enthusiastically and generously. [24:11]In a change of tack, it is noted that there are practical ways in which our giving can be assisted or enhanced - including through tax relief, which will be covering fully in a future episode. [25:55]Finally, this introductory episode concludes with some thoughts about giving to our families and the kinds of questions that can arise in that context. [27:15]The next episode in this season will consider the question, ‘What should we give?’ [30:46]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken

In this bonus episode, Simon talks listeners through the HMRC tax return, highlighting some key points that they may find useful. Various items covered in this episode that may be of particular interest include the following:Simon starts off by outlining the purpose and nature of the HMRC tax return, as well as explaining who needs to complete it on an annual basis. [01:19]Simon talks about the circumstances in which people might find it helpful to have professional input or assistance from the likes of a financial planner or an accountant. [08:01]Simon mentions the importance of good record keeping before going over the information that needs to be reported and the distinctions (eg between allowable and non-allowable expenses) that need to be made when completing a tax return. [09:41]Particular attention is drawn to the opportunity to report Gift Aid contributions because of the relevance of this option for those who give money to charities (including churches). [15:07]Simon then goes on to explain the dates by which tax returns and payments are required. [16:59]Simon speaks about payment matters, including what to do if you think that you won’t be able to pay the tax due or will be late in making a payment. [21:57]Simon explains how tax codes work. [26:45]Simon concludes by listing some top tips for anyone required to complete a tax self-assessment. His recommendations include the following: consult an accountant if you are finding the process challenging; put money aside for tax payments as the year goes on; be aware of the likelihood of needing to make payments ‘on account’; take advantage, if helpful to do so, of the flexibility available when allocating Gift Aid to a tax year; bear in mind that pension contributions can reduce tax payments; if relevant, carry forward a loss on an investment so that it can be used to offset tax in the future; use the HMRC app to help you to manage your tax information. [29:34]Season 5 of the ‘Where Your Treasure Is…’ podcast, on the theme of ‘Giving’, is coming soon. In the meantime, please use the contact details below to send in any questions that you have about the HMRC tax return that were not answered during this episode. [32:25]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

In this bonus episode, Bex interviews Simon about his own faith and finance journey, including the values and principles that have underpinned the creation and development of his business, Stewardship Wealth.Some key points covered in this episode include the following:Simon describes an incident that triggered his appreciation of the power of generosity [01:38] and goes on to talk about various other factors that shaped his thinking about why we might want to cultivate the habit of giving some of our money away. [03:18]Prioritising giving money away and exploring what it means to give sacrificially were two themes that came to the fore for Simon when moving on from being a student to the world of paid employment. [06:00]Simon outlines the steps and experiences that led him to conclude that God was prompting him to start up his own business. [11:43]Simon identifies three key values [16:34] and six big goals [18:28] that he feels have been the hallmark of his business and have distinguished it from other financial planning companies.In response to a question from Bex, Simon provides some headline advice for anyone interested in following in his footsteps by setting up a generosity-inspired business venture of their own. [22:52]In his concluding remarks, Simon encourages each of us to make a priority of identifying the unique skills and abilities that God has given us and also the individual passions that He has put within our hearts. That will then provide a great platform for us to serve God’s purposes in an individually fulfilling and distinctive manner. [25:02]Next up will be a second bonus episode, explaining the intricacies of the HMRC Tax Return, which will then be followed by Season 5, on the theme of Giving, which will commence in early September. [27:25]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

Simon and Bex identify five common stumbling blocks to having great conversations about money and discuss ways of overcoming them.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Stumbling block number one to having good conversations about money is failing to actually start the process! [01:48]The second barrier is that talking about money can have an emotional dimension that many people find difficult to handle. [05:23]Thirdly, if you find financial content difficult and don’t fully understand the issues, you are going to struggle to have good money conversations. [13:12]Similarly, if you are unclear about the objectives of a money conversation or don’t want to face up to what needs to be addressed, no progress is going to be made. [18:50]Finally, Bex and Simon highlight the importance of following up our conversations about money and revisiting them, as appropriate. [23:49]As this is the final episode of Season 4, Simon asks Bex whether or not the ‘Where Your Treasure Is…’ podcast is going to continue! [27:06]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.

Simon and Bex discuss how an awareness of the future can have a positive influence on our conversations about money.Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:Simon and Bex introduce the episode by talking about the individual goals that they feel that God has placed on their hearts and how important these are to them. [01:43]They then go on to discuss what contribution money can make to the efforts that we each make to fulfil our goals and what that might look like in practice. [04:52]Bex comments that each of us faces a challenge in trying to establish an appropriate balance between effective stewardship and living generously; Simon suggests that people are likely to respond to this issue in different ways, and what is most important is for each person to develop their own response through a process of hearing from God regarding what is right for them individually. [07:48]When it comes to putting into practice the personal principles that we have established, Simon suggests that, for much of the time, it can be a case of simply using the godly common sense, discernment and responsiveness that we each tend to develop over time if we are following the Lord sincerely and are interacting meaningfully with other Christians. [12:02] It is also noted, however, that it is very easy to over-commit or to end up being pulled in several different directions. For that reason, it can be very important to be rigorous and pragmatic in our decision-making processes. [15:05]Various suggestions are made about how we can start to respond practically to the challenge of managing our money effectively to support a long-term goal that God has put on our hearts. It is noted that, rather than being a solo undertaking, it can have all kinds of benefits to join with others in pursuit of such objectives. [18:45]Simon stresses the importance of taking action and getting started, even if that is at a very modest level or is in combination with others. [24:03] He also highlights the benefits of ensuring that we have conversations about money on an ongoing basis. [26:37]The final episode of the ‘Money Conversations’ season will consider how we can deal with the challenges that arise when we try to have conversations about money. [27:50]Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast. This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting. You can sign up to receive news and updates about this podcast by filling out the brief form to which you will be taken when clicking on this link.