Faith & Finance - Finding the Right Financial Advisor with Sharon Epps

"Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." — Proverbs 15:22

When it comes to managing money wisely, many of us could use some help, but how do you know you’ve found the right financial advisor? Today, we’ll explore a few key questions you should ask when hiring someone to help you with your financial decisions. Sharon Epps is here to help us navigate that process.

Sharon Epps is the President of Kingdom Advisors, FaithFi’s parent organization. Kingdom Advisors serves the broad Christian financial industry by educating and equipping professionals to integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.

How to Find a Financial Advisor Who Aligns With Your Faith

Finding a financial advisor can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right questions and a clear framework, you can confidently choose someone who aligns with your values, demonstrates technical competence, and offers a transparent process. Here are three things to consider when hiring a financial advisor who shares your faith and values.  

1. Values Alignment: Do They Share Your Worldview?

The most important starting point is finding an advisor whose faith informs their advice. There’s a big difference between an advisor who is a Christian and one who actively discusses financial decision-making through a biblical lens.

Key Questions to Ask:

• What role does faith play in your financial advice?
• How do you define financial success?

You’re listening for more than a respectful nod toward your faith. You want to know if they see money as a tool for stewardship, generosity, and Kingdom impact, not just a means of personal gain.

2. Competency: Are They Qualified to Serve You?

Once values are aligned, it is essential to ensure the advisor has the technical skills and experience necessary to guide your financial decisions.

Look for:

• Industry certifications (like CFP®, CPA, CKA®, etc.)
• Experience working with clients in your stage of life

Key Question to Ask:

• Can you tell me about clients you’ve served who are in a similar situation to mine?

Good advisors won’t name names, but they should be able to share stories of impact that demonstrate how they’ve helped people like you.

3. Process & Compensation: Are They Transparent and Clear?

A trustworthy advisor will be open about how they make money and how they work with clients.

Key Questions to Ask:

• Can you explain how you're compensated—fees, commissions, or both—for someone like me?
• What is your process for creating a financial plan?

They should be able to explain their step-by-step approach, timeline, and what you’ll