Faithful Finance by Emily G. Stroud

This book is a good general one for people looking for basic financial information. Stroud writes that her goal in the book is to give readers “an overview of what a successful financial plan looks like.” (21) I think she has accomplished her goal and has done it in a very personable way.

Stroud combines insight from the Bible with practical financial management. We should manage our money because doing so wisely will yield a more “peaceful and fruitful life.” (16) She covers a number of basic topics like choosing a financial planner, making a budget, developing a savings plan, giving generously, reducing debt, planning for children's education, insurance, retirement, and estate planning.

While this book is a somewhat typical one on the topic, I did really like a couple of her sections. I was amazed at the amount of credit card debt people hold. She identifies the basic problem, I think, wanting more. She reminds readers that only God can fill that emptiness in the soul. Stuff will never do that.

I really like her short Epilogue, including the 10 Secrets for Living Life Well. My favorite one was #2, “Read as many books as you can get your hands on.” (199) These ten life admonitions are a good addition to the financial ones.

I recommend this book as a good one on the basics of managing finances in a wise and godly way. Stroud is very personable and tells stories on herself. That made the book more readable and interesting. She also lists a number of resources at the end of the book.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Emily G. Stroud is president and owner of Stroud Financial Management, Inc. and has been a financial advisor for two decades. A member of the Association of Investment Management and Research, Stroud has an MBA and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). She lives in Fort Worth, Texas, with her husband and their two children.

Zondervan, 208 pages.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Handlebar. My comments are an independent and honest review.