Second, I went on offense for my own Rich Life vision. This included setting aside money for specific goals. Bob: That’s been/she literally added that part to the book when we were coming up with a concept/this whole idea. This is so much of the value that she adds to what we do—is just this component of enjoying money—but also doing it without guilt and shame—and to breaking that part off; because we’ve just seen so much of that/so much—people are carrying so much guilt and shame about finances in their marriage/in their personal lives. That’s a big part. I always encourage people to spend extravagantly on the things they love, as long as they cut costs mercilessly on the things they don’t. Ask yourself: What do you love spending money on? Not just “like,” but love. Now ask yourself what it would feel like to quadruple your spending in that area. Dave: Yes. Here’s a tension question—as I’m sitting here with a couple, who’s written about this, and has really gone on a journey with God to get a handle on your money in a good way; and you’re helping others now—if a person says: “My life is about Jesus; He’s everything,” and they don’t give more than two percent—because that’s the average in the American church. I know, as a pastor, most of my congregation gave less than two percent. I didn’t look at the numbers; I just know that’s true in America—and yet, they would say, “Jesus is everything,”—what do you think of that? Is that true? I’m throwing that out to the money guys.

Her just willingness and desire to enjoy the blessings that He’s given us—to trust that God’s going to provide; whereas I might have a tendency to trust in how big our savings account is/might lean more in that direction—she has something that’s been a lot of value to me. As I’ve allowed her to rub off on me, our marriage has gotten better/our financial situation has gotten better. It’s like we still save; and in that/in my yielding to her on that, she’s yielded in my direction and has worked to control her spending a little bit more and to stay within budget, and things like that. It’s really been a great thing that God has just brought us to a more healthy balance. When I ask people this, their eyes light up. The most common response is “travel,” followed by “eating out,” then “health/wellness” as the third. These are examples of Money Dials, or the areas we love to spend money on. Bob and Linda see money and generosity through a completely different lens than most. I admire them greatly. Their authenticity, depth of wisdom, and heart to advance God’s Kingdom are deeply inspiring.” As a child, I thought this was normal. Only later did we realize how hilarious it was to squeeze 6 people into a room for 2. But without things like this (and little Ramit sleeping on a couch) it gets pretty expensive to take a big family on a trip.

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I particularly enjoyed the section on giving titled “Give All You Can.” I was inspired personally, which surprised me given that I worked in ministry fundraising. Ann: —we’re going to somebody’s house for dinner tonight, and they have some kids; I’d probably buy something for those kids to take with me. In addition to the joys of traveling, we leave time for relaxing, reading, and setting our goals for the next year. A Rich Life isn’t all about money. At IWT , we see money as a tool for designing, enhancing, and enjoying the life you’re meant to live.

Dave: We didn’t just talk about money; we talked about family and marriage. You’ve been so helpful to our listeners; thanks.

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Bob: Sure, it’s a whole lot less spiritual;—[Laughter]—but I would probably take Linda out on a nice date. Now, in his casual and approachable style, Bob (along with his fun-loving wife, Linda) shares everything he has learned about achieving true financial freedom in Simple Money, Rich Life: Achieve True Financial Freedom and Design a Life of Eternal Impact (WaterBrook, on-sale 4/26/22). This hope-filled money guide willhelp Christiansincrease savings, earnings, and giving—andactuallyenjoy it all—whiledesigning a life of freedom and eternal impact. Bob Lotich began sharing his inspirational financial journey online, becoming an award-winning blogger and podcast host ofSeedTime Money. For the last 14 years, he has been a trusted voice for Christians wanting to find financial freedom the way God intended. I call this the 85% Solution. I’d rather act and get it 85% right than do nothing. Think about it: 85% of the way is far better than 0%. This can be especially true when we’re designing our Rich Life. That’s why the easiest way to build your Rich Life is to take it one step at a time—and not worry about being perfect.

If you can focus on the 5-10 Big Wins, rather than 50 little things, you can have an insurmountable edge in life.When Bob Lotich reached out and asked me to review his book I was a little hesitant. I was at the point where I was not taking a lot of review requests. However, once I realized the topic of his book, I was all in. My husband and I had just talked about our finances, and we were both ready for things to change. This applies to money too. Once your money system is good enough—or 85% of the way there—you can get on with your life and go do the things you really want to do.