How Can I Help Others Without Hurting Myself?

How can you give from the heart without draining your bank account—or your peace? Many families feel the pressure to make the holidays “magical,” often stretching themselves too thin financially. However, generosity shouldn’t come at the expense of your stability.

In this episode of The Financially Confident Christian, Ralph Estep Jr. answers one of the season’s most common questions: “How can I help others without hurting myself?” Through a heartfelt story about his father-in-law, who played “Santa” every year, Ralph reveals how even the kindest of giving can turn into a burden when it’s not rooted in wisdom. He shares practical steps to give intentionally: planning early, setting boundaries, offering time and skills, and avoiding debt-based giving. Grounded in 2 Corinthians 9:7, this episode reminds listeners that true generosity is about grace, not guilt. You don’t need to spend more to make the holidays meaningful—your presence and your planning matter more than any price tag.

Read today's blog article:
https://www.financiallyconfidentchristian.com/blog/finding-balance-others/
https://financiallyconfidentchristian.com/help-without-hurting

Podcast Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Listener Question
01:58 Father-in-Law Story: Playing Santa Without Savings
03:00 Dave Ramsey: “You Can’t Pour from an Empty Cup”
04:25 Giving Time, Skills & Presence
05:06 Avoid “Double Bondage”: Don’t Borrow to Give
05:39 Plan & Budget Your Generosity
06:37 Prayer for Wise Generosity
07:06 Action Step: Create Your Giving List & Pray
07:43 How to Submit Your Questions to Ralph
08:12 Closing Message: Give with Grace, Not Guilt

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The Ask Ralph Media Podcast has been honored as the Best Christian Finance Podcast in the U.S. for 2025 by Best of Best Review. This prestigious award recognizes the show’s unwavering commitment to blending biblical wisdom with practical financial guidance, empowering listeners to make wise money decisions rooted in faith. Through its concise, impactful 10–12 minute episodes, the Ask Ralph Podcast has inspired and equipped audiences nationwide, standing out among countless voices in the finance and faith space.
https://bestofbestreview.com/awards/ask-ralph-media-inc-best-christian-finance-podcast-in-the-u-s-of-2025