Carolyn Calupca on the program was a long time senior producer at Crown Financial Ministries where she worked closely with Larry Burkett for many years. She’s now a frequent contributor here at Faith and Finance and the author of our new 4-week study guide, Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool ( . 

WHAT IS THE HISTORICAL CONTEXT OF THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL?

Jesus delivers this parable in 33 AD, during a time of significant political and spiritual tension in Judea under Roman rule. As Jesus moves toward Jerusalem for the last time, he attracts a large following, drawn by his authoritative teaching and miraculous deeds. Amidst his teachings on judgment and preparation, an individual interrupts to seek Jesus’ mediation in a familial inheritance dispute.

• The setting is marked by societal unrest and anticipation for spiritual guidance.
• Jesus’ teachings captivate thousands, highlighting his unique authority and the miracles he performs.
• The request for arbitration on an inheritance matter presents a moment of personal concern amidst broader spiritual teachings.

WHY IS THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL RELEVANT TODAY?

Jesus’ teachings are timeless, addressing the core issues of the human heart, which remains unchanged. The parable of the rich fool is particularly poignant in today’s materialistic society, where the accumulation of possessions often overshadows spiritual richness.

• The human heart’s condition and its inclinations have remained constant throughout history.
• Modern society mirrors the parable’s theme with its focus on accumulating material wealth.
• Jesus’ message challenges individuals to examine the true source of satisfaction and richness in life.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE ‘RICH TOWARD GOD’?

Being rich toward God entails prioritizing a relationship with God over material wealth and possessions. Unlike the rich fool, who focused solely on his earthly treasures, being rich toward God means acknowledging His sovereignty and utilizing His blessings to serve others rather than oneself.

• Treasuring God above all material possessions and successes.
• Recognizing and giving credit to God for all blessings, contrasting the rich fool’s self-centeredness.
• Utilizing God’s resources to serve others, highlighting a shift from self-service to serving God and community.

HOW CAN THE STUDY “RICH TOWARD GOD” HELP GOD’S PEOPLE?

The study “Rich Toward God” encourages introspection on personal values and priorities, guiding individuals toward a deeper understanding of what truly satisfies the soul. It asks probing questions about one’s deepest needs, the pursuit of abundance, and the journey to becoming rich toward God.

• Encourages self-examination of one’s deepest needs and sources of true satisfaction.
• Guides individuals on a reflective journey to discover how to become genuinely rich toward God.
• Offers practical questions and insights to facilitate personal spiritual growth and reevaluation of life’s priorities.

ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:

• I’m considering a reverse mortgage for my home valued at $200,000 and want to know if I qualify and the benefits.
• I want to place an alert on inherited property to be notified if someone tries to sell it or use it as collateral.
• I have my savings sitting in cash within a Fidelity account after losing money during the pandemic. I’m 71 and need to know about required minimum distributions for this year.
• As newlyweds living debt-free in a tiny house, my husband and I are looking for advice on saving for a larger home to start our family, considering our modest beginnings and desire for financial literacy.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Fidelity (
• Bankrate ( for emergency savings tips.
• FaithFi App ( for tracking monthly expenses and budgeting.
 

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network ( as well as American Family Radio ( . Visit our website at FaithFi.com ( where you can join the FaithFi Community, and give ( as we expand our outreach.

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network ( as well as American Family Radio ( . Visit our website at FaithFi.com ( where you can join the FaithFi Community, and give ( as we expand our outreach….(read more)

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In today’s fast-paced and materialistic world, it can be all too easy to prioritize worldly wealth and possessions over spiritual riches. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to be rich toward God – to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth.

One woman who exemplifies this principle is Carolyn Calupca, a devoted Christian who has dedicated her life to serving others and spreading the message of God’s love. In a recent interview, Carolyn shared her insights on what it means to be rich toward God and how we can strive to live out this principle in our own lives.

According to Carolyn, being rich toward God means putting Him first in all areas of our lives – our time, our talent, and our resources. It means being generous with our blessings and using them to further God’s kingdom here on earth. It also means living with gratitude and contentment, recognizing that true wealth comes from knowing and serving the Lord.

Carolyn emphasized the importance of living with an eternal perspective, focusing on the things that truly matter in light of eternity. She shared how she has seen firsthand the impact of living a life surrendered to God and how it has brought her joy and fulfillment beyond measure.

One way Carolyn practices being rich toward God is by giving back to her community through acts of service and kindness. Whether it’s volunteering at a local food pantry, visiting nursing home residents, or simply lending a listening ear to those in need, Carolyn believes that we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus in a hurting world.

In addition to serving others, Carolyn also prioritizes her relationship with God by spending time in prayer and studying His word. She believes that a strong foundation in faith is essential for living a life that is rich toward God.

As we reflect on Carolyn’s example, may we be inspired to follow in her footsteps and strive to be rich toward God in all that we do. Let us look for opportunities to serve others, prioritize our relationship with God, and live with an eternal perspective. In doing so, we will not only experience true wealth and fulfillment but also bring glory to God’s name.