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Resolve: A Personal Financial Planning Book for Twentysomethings Getting Serious About Stewardship
*** 2023 American Writing Awards Winner*** First Place Business - Personal Finance/Investing*** 2023 Literary Global Book Awards Winner*** First Place Business - Personal Finance*** 2023 International Book Award Winner *** First Place Nonfiction - Cross Genre*** 2023 Literary Global Book Awards Winner*** First Place Nonfiction - Debut Author*** 2023 Readers' Favorite Book Award Winner *** Silver Medalist Christian Non-Fiction*** 2023 Pencraft Award Winner *** 2nd Place Christian Living*** 2023 Independent Author Network Award Winner *** Finalist Non-Fiction Religion/ChristianThe decade that spans ages 20 to 30 sees adults evolve from complete financial dependence to, humanly speaking, complete financial independence. During their twenties, most people adopt formative financial perspectives and habits in their stewardship journey. Resolve brings focus and clarity to the five foundational stewardship principles that readers (of any age) should understand and apply to build a solid financial framework. Agreeing with the principles is easy. Developing the resolve and conviction to implement them is much harder. Will Ertel draws from his 25-year plus personal financial planning experience and his experiences with his three twentysomething children to exhort the reader to both understand and apply these principles.What are others saying about Resolve?Resolve . . . would make a good gift for a recent college graduate or a young married couple.World Magazine, June 3, 2023In Resolve, Will Ertel has provided young people with an eminently practical guide to the management of finances that is grounded in biblical principles of stewardship and peppered with appreciable wit. Will's style is straightforward and accessible, making sound approaches to the handling of personal finances easily understandable to the lay reader. This is a book I want my own children and all the students I serve to read.Dr. J. Derek Halvorson - President, Covenant College, Lookout Mountain, GAWhile this book would benefit people of all ages, I expect that it will become my go-to book for pre-marriage counseling and helping young adults to mature in their understanding of financial wisdom.Dr. James Newheiser, Jr. - Director of Christian Counseling, Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte, NC and author of Money, Debt, and FinancesThis book is everything I want my children and students to know and do when it comes to their personal finances... This should be required reading for every Christian young person from age 18 to 30.Kurt Cornfield - Financial Planner Professor at Liberty University, Lynchburg, VAWill writes with brevity, clarity and conviction on matters that twentysomethings need to be thinking about, especially with regard to how to view money matters through a biblical worldview, and how to implement specific strategies that resolve to honor God with our finances. Anyone will benefit from the godly principles in this book, but especially those in their twenties.Sarah Ivill - Author, Mother, Bible teacher, Retreat and Conference SpeakerWill’s financial expertise and pastoral heart were united all throughout the work.
140 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 21, 2023
3 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
About the author
Will Ertel
2 books2 followersWill grew up in Elkhart, Indiana before attending Furman University in Greenville, SC where he double majored in math and accounting. He also played baseball at Furman and enjoyed considerable success as a pitcher. After one season of minor league baseball, Will began working as a accountant before entering the financial planning profession.
In 2002, Will founded Tassel Capital Management in Matthews, NC to provide affluent and middle-market individuals fee-only financial planning and investment management services.
Will is a CPA, CFP(R) and a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA). As a CKA, Will seeks to integrate Biblical principles into financial planning services. These principles encourage people to see their roles as stewards and to seek to be generous, to set long-term goals, to live within their means, and to make long-term investments.
Will is married to Debbie, and they have three wonderful daughters (and three wonderful sons-in-law) and two beautiful granddaughters.
In 2002, Will founded Tassel Capital Management in Matthews, NC to provide affluent and middle-market individuals fee-only financial planning and investment management services.
Will is a CPA, CFP(R) and a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA). As a CKA, Will seeks to integrate Biblical principles into financial planning services. These principles encourage people to see their roles as stewards and to seek to be generous, to set long-term goals, to live within their means, and to make long-term investments.
Will is married to Debbie, and they have three wonderful daughters (and three wonderful sons-in-law) and two beautiful granddaughters.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
May 18, 2025
Structured Path to Manage Your Income
I borrowed this book thanks to the Kindle Unlimited subscription that I share with my girlfriend, and I read it between my tablet and my phone using the Kindle app.
This book offers five key principles on how to manage your income to increase your net gains—not just for the present, but more importantly, with the future in mind.
I really liked how the author presents a wide range of investment and money management strategies, clearly explaining each one along with the risks involved. He also includes clear, math-based examples that demonstrate how starting to invest now can lead to long-term financial security.
That said, this book is not intended for people struggling with serious financial issues or looking for ways to start earning money. Instead, it's aimed at those who already have a steady income and are looking for practical financial advice on how to make the most of it.
I borrowed this book thanks to the Kindle Unlimited subscription that I share with my girlfriend, and I read it between my tablet and my phone using the Kindle app.
This book offers five key principles on how to manage your income to increase your net gains—not just for the present, but more importantly, with the future in mind.
I really liked how the author presents a wide range of investment and money management strategies, clearly explaining each one along with the risks involved. He also includes clear, math-based examples that demonstrate how starting to invest now can lead to long-term financial security.
That said, this book is not intended for people struggling with serious financial issues or looking for ways to start earning money. Instead, it's aimed at those who already have a steady income and are looking for practical financial advice on how to make the most of it.
July 3, 2025
It’s a different concept to combine Bible teachings with financial counsel, but even if you are not a religious person, the advice is sound. Teaching children early to be responsible about money by giving them ownership and choices about how to spend, save and invest it, will set them up to pursue successful stewardship as an adult. He believes in giving a percentage of your salary to the church and charities, and limiting lifestyle spending decisions to match your income by being realistic about what is most important to you. He advises readers to build and maintain an emergency fund in case your income suddenly drops or ceases, build cash for major purchases like a house or car, children’s school fees, healthcare and retirement, pay down credit card balances and loans, and limit spending now for long-term gain. A lot of his examples assume 8% return on investment which might be a stretch in the current economic climate. I liked his frog story to show there is a difference between deciding and doing. The overall message is to be disciplined about saving money, and he provides a manageable blueprint for young people to set themselves up financially. It’s all in the planning.
December 22, 2024
Practical wisdom regarding finances and responsible stewardship!! This book is rooted in biblical principles and explains financial planning in an easy-to-understand manner for beginners in finance.
March 5, 2023
There they are. Seventeen frogs sitting on a log. Suddenly, nine of them decide to jump off. Now, the $50 question is, how many frogs are there on the log? There are still seventeen, because deciding to jump off and jumping off are two completely different actions. And that is the point Will Ertel, founder of Tassel Capital, CPA and financial adviser wants to hammer home in his brand-new 138-page softback, “Resolve: A Personal Financial Planning Book for Twentysomethings Getting Serious About Stewardship”. Ertel wrote this book with one major group in mind, his three twentysomething daughters and their spouses. And what he wrote for them he decided to share with others. He wrote to convince us all to move from deciding to jump off the log, to actually jumping off and diving in.
The book revolves around five core exhortations, which end up being the five chapters of the book. Give charitably, set and take action on financial goals, create margin, save and invest in margin, and finally, plan your estate. In each chapter the author shows, in achievable steps, how a reader can go from deciding to jump off of the log to actually diving in. I was struck by how sensible and practical each chapter is. In fact, I was delighted to realize I have communicated many of the same ideas to my adult children while they were growing up in our home.
Two of the biggest items I think are worth the price of the book and the time it will take to read it are in the first and fifth exhortations. The first is to give charitably and make it part of your normal habit. This is a huge concept. So I was deeply pleased that Ertel made it his first concept or exhortation, and returns to it at just the right times throughout the book.
The second item is in estate planning. The author asserts that “Adults with children or grandchildren leave behind three things to the successive generations: financial capital, social capital, and spiritual capital” (102). He then develops each of these, and how the final two are essential in helping those who receive our financial capital, so that they can use it wisely and well. This insight is mammoth concept has large consequences long after we’re gone. Social and spiritual capital are more important than the financial. As he will go on to write later, “The most important aspect of estate planning at a young age is equipping your children with social and spiritual capital” (106). Let that sink in.
Ertel is not only a financial planner, he is an ordained elder in the Presbyterian Church in America, and serves at Christ Covenant Church in Matthews, North Carolina. That means that this volume is not only the work done by a father who loves his daughters and their spouses, but an elder who loves Christ’s people and Christ’s church. I mention these details because I think they add street credibility to this small manual. Though it is written for Twentysomethings, it has much to say to those in their thirties, forties, fifties, and even into their sixties. I’m going to hand the book over to my youngest son who is getting married soon. Who needs this book? You, the reader, do. I highly recommend it.
My thanks to the author who reached out to me and asked if I’d be interested in reading and reviewing this book. After I assented, he sent me the free copy I used in this evaluation, but made no demands on me, laid down no expectations, and took no one hostage. Therefore, this analysis is my own, freely written and freely given.
The book revolves around five core exhortations, which end up being the five chapters of the book. Give charitably, set and take action on financial goals, create margin, save and invest in margin, and finally, plan your estate. In each chapter the author shows, in achievable steps, how a reader can go from deciding to jump off of the log to actually diving in. I was struck by how sensible and practical each chapter is. In fact, I was delighted to realize I have communicated many of the same ideas to my adult children while they were growing up in our home.
Two of the biggest items I think are worth the price of the book and the time it will take to read it are in the first and fifth exhortations. The first is to give charitably and make it part of your normal habit. This is a huge concept. So I was deeply pleased that Ertel made it his first concept or exhortation, and returns to it at just the right times throughout the book.
The second item is in estate planning. The author asserts that “Adults with children or grandchildren leave behind three things to the successive generations: financial capital, social capital, and spiritual capital” (102). He then develops each of these, and how the final two are essential in helping those who receive our financial capital, so that they can use it wisely and well. This insight is mammoth concept has large consequences long after we’re gone. Social and spiritual capital are more important than the financial. As he will go on to write later, “The most important aspect of estate planning at a young age is equipping your children with social and spiritual capital” (106). Let that sink in.
Ertel is not only a financial planner, he is an ordained elder in the Presbyterian Church in America, and serves at Christ Covenant Church in Matthews, North Carolina. That means that this volume is not only the work done by a father who loves his daughters and their spouses, but an elder who loves Christ’s people and Christ’s church. I mention these details because I think they add street credibility to this small manual. Though it is written for Twentysomethings, it has much to say to those in their thirties, forties, fifties, and even into their sixties. I’m going to hand the book over to my youngest son who is getting married soon. Who needs this book? You, the reader, do. I highly recommend it.
My thanks to the author who reached out to me and asked if I’d be interested in reading and reviewing this book. After I assented, he sent me the free copy I used in this evaluation, but made no demands on me, laid down no expectations, and took no one hostage. Therefore, this analysis is my own, freely written and freely given.
July 7, 2025
Good information; lack of audience connection
I am always looking for more ways to enter discussions with my kids about finances, as they are entering adulthood. I appreciated that this book had clear information, and the advice was reasonable. However, I didn't feel like it connects well with the intended audience.
I appreciated the chapter on giving, and how the perspective about money management is from a moral perspective (Christian). That is definitely the philosophy that I want to pass on to my children, and a good starting place for talking about money.
The advice was nice and straightforward — unlike certain Christian financial advisors who ask for no debt ever, etc. I would have liked to see Ertel get into more of a discussion about types of debt and how to analyze interest rates, etc, but he didn't villainize all debt off-hand.
The writing style was easy to read and full of anecdotes that illustrated his points. I found it quick and clear.
However, as a mother and teacher of teens and young adults, the tone was just not the sort of thing that resonates. It was very "aw, shucks" and full of "dad jokes." It felt like it was written from one parent to another, not actually with young people as the intended audience. And by this, I don't mean that I expect modern slang, but anecdotes that center the young person rather than the dad would make a big difference, and the writing style felt mildly condescending. *My* dad would definitely appreciate the humor, but my kids will not.
So, if you are reading this as a parent of elementary or middle school students thinking about how to frame conversations with your kids as they grow, this book could work well, especially if you are not very sure about financial principles yourself. But I'm afraid that I won't be actually handing this to my young adult children to read, which was my goal.
I am always looking for more ways to enter discussions with my kids about finances, as they are entering adulthood. I appreciated that this book had clear information, and the advice was reasonable. However, I didn't feel like it connects well with the intended audience.
I appreciated the chapter on giving, and how the perspective about money management is from a moral perspective (Christian). That is definitely the philosophy that I want to pass on to my children, and a good starting place for talking about money.
The advice was nice and straightforward — unlike certain Christian financial advisors who ask for no debt ever, etc. I would have liked to see Ertel get into more of a discussion about types of debt and how to analyze interest rates, etc, but he didn't villainize all debt off-hand.
The writing style was easy to read and full of anecdotes that illustrated his points. I found it quick and clear.
However, as a mother and teacher of teens and young adults, the tone was just not the sort of thing that resonates. It was very "aw, shucks" and full of "dad jokes." It felt like it was written from one parent to another, not actually with young people as the intended audience. And by this, I don't mean that I expect modern slang, but anecdotes that center the young person rather than the dad would make a big difference, and the writing style felt mildly condescending. *My* dad would definitely appreciate the humor, but my kids will not.
So, if you are reading this as a parent of elementary or middle school students thinking about how to frame conversations with your kids as they grow, this book could work well, especially if you are not very sure about financial principles yourself. But I'm afraid that I won't be actually handing this to my young adult children to read, which was my goal.
July 20, 2025
While the blurb for 'Resolve' hints at a values-based approach through the language of “stewardship,” it doesn’t make it clear just how heavily faith-based the book actually is. Much of the financial guidance is framed with Biblical references and spiritual justification - especially around topics like charitable giving. If you're expecting a secular guide, this may not be the right fit.
That said, the author’s experience in financial planning comes through, and there are some solid foundational principles here:
- Building a 3–6 month emergency fund
- Tackling student debt early
- Preparing financially for the future
However, for a book targeting readers in their twenties, it can feel overwhelming. Saving for retirement, children’s education, and even supporting aging parents - all while getting started in life - may feel like too much, too soon.
The book becomes more practical as it goes on. The appendices in particular are useful - covering compound interest and a practical method for tracking periodic spending.
It’s worth noting that the book is very US-centric, particularly with references to tax rates and retirement structures. If you are not in the US you'll probably find you have a lot less money after tax!
Overall, Resolve is less of a financial how-to and more of a reflective, values-oriented read. It may not suit those looking for purely actionable advice, but for readers open to a Christian lens on financial discipline, it provides thoughtful, if occasionally daunting, encouragement.
That said, the author’s experience in financial planning comes through, and there are some solid foundational principles here:
- Building a 3–6 month emergency fund
- Tackling student debt early
- Preparing financially for the future
However, for a book targeting readers in their twenties, it can feel overwhelming. Saving for retirement, children’s education, and even supporting aging parents - all while getting started in life - may feel like too much, too soon.
The book becomes more practical as it goes on. The appendices in particular are useful - covering compound interest and a practical method for tracking periodic spending.
It’s worth noting that the book is very US-centric, particularly with references to tax rates and retirement structures. If you are not in the US you'll probably find you have a lot less money after tax!
Overall, Resolve is less of a financial how-to and more of a reflective, values-oriented read. It may not suit those looking for purely actionable advice, but for readers open to a Christian lens on financial discipline, it provides thoughtful, if occasionally daunting, encouragement.
May 26, 2025
Will Ertel’s Resolve feels less like a slick finance manual and more like a seasoned mentor sliding a cup of coffee across the table and saying, “Let me show you what actually works.” Drawing on three decades of advisory work, and the trial-by-fire of shepherding his own twenty-something kids, Ertel distills personal finance into five stewardship habits that are as practical as they are biblical.
Ertel never lectures, yet he never dodges hard truths. He tells you, plainly, to give first, carve out margin, and automate saving long before you worry about clever investment plays. The material is concrete (think sample budgets, rule-of-thumb targets, and step-by-step estate primers), but it’s delivered with a light touch and the occasional dad-level joke that keeps the pages turning.
The spiritual framing is woven in, not tacked on. Verses appear where they clarify a principle, then the author shifts right back to nuts-and-bolts execution. Even if faith isn’t your primary lens, the call to generosity and purposeful living feels universally sensible, not preachy.
Is Resolve the last word on asset allocation? Of course not; it’s intentionally broad. But as a launchpad for young adults (or anyone) who sense it’s time to get serious, it strikes the rare blend of accessible, conviction-building, and immediately useful.
Ertel never lectures, yet he never dodges hard truths. He tells you, plainly, to give first, carve out margin, and automate saving long before you worry about clever investment plays. The material is concrete (think sample budgets, rule-of-thumb targets, and step-by-step estate primers), but it’s delivered with a light touch and the occasional dad-level joke that keeps the pages turning.
The spiritual framing is woven in, not tacked on. Verses appear where they clarify a principle, then the author shifts right back to nuts-and-bolts execution. Even if faith isn’t your primary lens, the call to generosity and purposeful living feels universally sensible, not preachy.
Is Resolve the last word on asset allocation? Of course not; it’s intentionally broad. But as a launchpad for young adults (or anyone) who sense it’s time to get serious, it strikes the rare blend of accessible, conviction-building, and immediately useful.
June 23, 2025
Resolve is the kind of book I wish I had in my twenties. It skips the fluff and gets right to what matters, how to handle your money like a grown-up before life forces you to.
This isn’t just a budgeting book or another “stop buying lattes” lecture. It’s about learning to manage your finances with purpose. Stewardship, not just spending. And the way it’s written makes it incredibly approachable, even if you’re brand new to financial planning.
The author does a great job breaking down concepts like budgeting, saving, debt, investing, and giving, without overwhelming the reader. It’s clear, values-driven, and incredibly practical. No jargon. No guilt trips. Just smart guidance for anyone who’s ready to stop winging it and start getting intentional.
What I really appreciated is the tone. It feels like a trusted mentor talking to you, not someone trying to sell you a course or make you feel bad for not knowing all this already. And if you're a person of faith, there's a nice balance of financial wisdom with spiritual stewardship, without ever getting preachy.
If you’re in your twenties or know someone who is and you’re ready to build a financial life that actually leads somewhere, Resolve is a great place to start. Simple, solid, and grounded in real-world advice that will set you up for the long haul.
This isn’t just a budgeting book or another “stop buying lattes” lecture. It’s about learning to manage your finances with purpose. Stewardship, not just spending. And the way it’s written makes it incredibly approachable, even if you’re brand new to financial planning.
The author does a great job breaking down concepts like budgeting, saving, debt, investing, and giving, without overwhelming the reader. It’s clear, values-driven, and incredibly practical. No jargon. No guilt trips. Just smart guidance for anyone who’s ready to stop winging it and start getting intentional.
What I really appreciated is the tone. It feels like a trusted mentor talking to you, not someone trying to sell you a course or make you feel bad for not knowing all this already. And if you're a person of faith, there's a nice balance of financial wisdom with spiritual stewardship, without ever getting preachy.
If you’re in your twenties or know someone who is and you’re ready to build a financial life that actually leads somewhere, Resolve is a great place to start. Simple, solid, and grounded in real-world advice that will set you up for the long haul.
August 23, 2025
While I am no longer in my 20's, I definitely could have done with this book in my 20's. Admittedly, I was not very responsible with money in my 20's. The advice in this book is good, however, even if I read this book in my twenties, it would have been challenging to follow. Maybe I'm wrong, but in my experience the last thing I wanted to do was live life by a spreadsheet of 10% to charity, taxes, insurances, college fund, home deposit, etc. I get it, it's about setting yourself up for the future, but life has to be lived also. I have some regrets, but also a lot of great times.
The book begins with charitable giving, which I naturally do, but not strictly 10% of my wages and rarely to church. (There is a lot of Christian references). The rest of the book covers everything from setting financial goals to saving, investing and even planning your estate for when you die. Again, I find it hard to imagine a twenty something planning their estate, especially with today's cost of living. Not sure the housing situation in the US but where I'm from, owning a home is now out of reach for most of the younger generation.
There is some great advice in here, just not sure if it's out of touch with the reality for most twenty year olds today.
The book begins with charitable giving, which I naturally do, but not strictly 10% of my wages and rarely to church. (There is a lot of Christian references). The rest of the book covers everything from setting financial goals to saving, investing and even planning your estate for when you die. Again, I find it hard to imagine a twenty something planning their estate, especially with today's cost of living. Not sure the housing situation in the US but where I'm from, owning a home is now out of reach for most of the younger generation.
There is some great advice in here, just not sure if it's out of touch with the reality for most twenty year olds today.
June 3, 2025
Personally, I have never been a fan of the Bible because I consider it a long and very old book that has had many manipulations and is also very dense with various information with ancient meanings that are difficult to transpose today. That the author has been able to grasp some important messages and update them to today's needs is a fact, making us understand that perhaps human evolution is the same as thousands of years ago.
The five themes that the author addresses are pillars in the financial life of every individual and none of them should ever be neglected, which unfortunately happens in some families with predilections for other themes, with other priorities, perhaps more noble but certainly less pragmatic. Reading this type of books puts each of us back on track as if we had had the opportunity to grow up with financial experts who also have a particular spiritual inclination. I have always thought that in our life everything is connected, the sacred and the profane, the practical and the abstract, building a good financial base is equivalent to building a solid foundation for the upcoming skyscraper.
The five themes that the author addresses are pillars in the financial life of every individual and none of them should ever be neglected, which unfortunately happens in some families with predilections for other themes, with other priorities, perhaps more noble but certainly less pragmatic. Reading this type of books puts each of us back on track as if we had had the opportunity to grow up with financial experts who also have a particular spiritual inclination. I have always thought that in our life everything is connected, the sacred and the profane, the practical and the abstract, building a good financial base is equivalent to building a solid foundation for the upcoming skyscraper.
November 3, 2025
The kind of book you should of read years ago! Don’t put it off, get it today!
Resolve: A Personal Financial Planning Book for Twenty somethings Getting Serious About Stewardship by Will Ertel is the type of book I should have been reading earlier in my twenties. I’m nearly 30 now and wish I had this type of book sooner. However I will say it is worth it for any age.
The kind of things that should be taught in school to help with finances and mindset in life. With sections about budgeting, paying off debt, retirement and many more. I think the best bit of advice it provides is how to set and keep to a goal in mind, something to achieve has always been in the best interests of human nature.
Seriously this book is fantastic, as a guide and at explaining what to do. It is the kind of book that will save you thousands throughout your life and something to keep coming back to when you forget the idea.
I will be purchasing this book for my Niece as she will soon become and adult and she has no idea of finances in the slightest and this will be the best start for her I wish I had.
I highly recommend this!
Resolve: A Personal Financial Planning Book for Twenty somethings Getting Serious About Stewardship by Will Ertel is the type of book I should have been reading earlier in my twenties. I’m nearly 30 now and wish I had this type of book sooner. However I will say it is worth it for any age.
The kind of things that should be taught in school to help with finances and mindset in life. With sections about budgeting, paying off debt, retirement and many more. I think the best bit of advice it provides is how to set and keep to a goal in mind, something to achieve has always been in the best interests of human nature.
Seriously this book is fantastic, as a guide and at explaining what to do. It is the kind of book that will save you thousands throughout your life and something to keep coming back to when you forget the idea.
I will be purchasing this book for my Niece as she will soon become and adult and she has no idea of finances in the slightest and this will be the best start for her I wish I had.
I highly recommend this!
May 26, 2025
Resolve is a touching though no-nonsense book by Will Ertel on how 20-somethings can plan their financial lives in a careful and productive way. The author is the founder of Tassel Capital Management, and his sage advice shines through on every page.
The sections are divided by “exhortations” with Bible-based advice throughout. The five premises are centered around charity; setting financial goals; creating, saving, and investing margin; and planning an estate. This is not your typical financial self-help read, but it’s nonetheless full of outstanding, perhaps less thought of, advice for getting individuals in this age group to think about their future and then earnestly forming good habits to make it happen.
The author is sincere and personable and deeply cares about helping 20-somethings, starting with his three daughters, whom he has helped in the past. No doubt Resolve is also a book that takes into consideration how the money we earn can help other people, not just ourselves, and Ertel deserves credit for highlighting this.
The sections are divided by “exhortations” with Bible-based advice throughout. The five premises are centered around charity; setting financial goals; creating, saving, and investing margin; and planning an estate. This is not your typical financial self-help read, but it’s nonetheless full of outstanding, perhaps less thought of, advice for getting individuals in this age group to think about their future and then earnestly forming good habits to make it happen.
The author is sincere and personable and deeply cares about helping 20-somethings, starting with his three daughters, whom he has helped in the past. No doubt Resolve is also a book that takes into consideration how the money we earn can help other people, not just ourselves, and Ertel deserves credit for highlighting this.
July 28, 2025
Resolve is a great guide, not just for young adults, who want to get a handle on their money. It covers everything from budgeting and saving to investing and giving, all explained in a way that actually makes sense.
What I liked most is that it’s practical and down-to-earth. The tone is friendly, and the examples feel real. There’s plenty of useful advice throughout, but one part that stood out to me was about teaching kids to take ownership of money early on. I also appreciated the reminder that deciding and doing are two very different things. That point is beautifully illustrated by the story of the author’s dad, “Boppy,” who ran at least one mile every day for nearly 3 years. It’s a simple but powerful example of what it means to keep showing up, even when it’s hard.
That thread runs through the whole book: money is not just about numbers, it is about values, consistency, and doing what matters most over time. The deeper message is that you are more important than money, but the way you manage it will shape your life and your relationships. A thoughtful and encouraging read.
What I liked most is that it’s practical and down-to-earth. The tone is friendly, and the examples feel real. There’s plenty of useful advice throughout, but one part that stood out to me was about teaching kids to take ownership of money early on. I also appreciated the reminder that deciding and doing are two very different things. That point is beautifully illustrated by the story of the author’s dad, “Boppy,” who ran at least one mile every day for nearly 3 years. It’s a simple but powerful example of what it means to keep showing up, even when it’s hard.
That thread runs through the whole book: money is not just about numbers, it is about values, consistency, and doing what matters most over time. The deeper message is that you are more important than money, but the way you manage it will shape your life and your relationships. A thoughtful and encouraging read.
June 9, 2025
A great book to recommend and live by
An excellent reminder of the importance of giving, saving, and, more importantly, the relative value of money. He describes the value of money very well when he likened it to the value of the Franc, the day after the currency became worthless, the day after the Euro became the official legal tender. That example helped me truly grasp how our eternal future is much more valuable than numbers on paper. He comes from a very Christian perspective, which I respect, trust, and can wholeheartedly recommend. This book will find its way onto the “Highly Recommended” reading list for all my kids as a valuable handbook as they embark on their lifelong financial journey.
This quote about procrastination will go down as one of my all-time favorites: “Procrastination. I’ve waited this long to bring it up, and I just couldn’t wait any longer.” The irony is rich! -Erik P. Lessmann, MD
An excellent reminder of the importance of giving, saving, and, more importantly, the relative value of money. He describes the value of money very well when he likened it to the value of the Franc, the day after the currency became worthless, the day after the Euro became the official legal tender. That example helped me truly grasp how our eternal future is much more valuable than numbers on paper. He comes from a very Christian perspective, which I respect, trust, and can wholeheartedly recommend. This book will find its way onto the “Highly Recommended” reading list for all my kids as a valuable handbook as they embark on their lifelong financial journey.
This quote about procrastination will go down as one of my all-time favorites: “Procrastination. I’ve waited this long to bring it up, and I just couldn’t wait any longer.” The irony is rich! -Erik P. Lessmann, MD
June 14, 2025
Resolved by Will Ertel is a refreshingly candid and heartfelt guide to personal finance—especially for those in their 20s standing at the threshold of lifelong financial choices. Ertel, founder of Tassel Capital Management, blends practical financial strategies with timeless values, offering advice rooted in Christian principles without losing relevance for secular readers. The book's unique structure, divided into "exhortations," gently urges readers to reflect on not just how they manage money, but why. From giving generously to building investment margin and planning for the long term, Ertel makes a compelling case for aligning money habits with a deeper sense of purpose. I personally like its sincere tone and emphasis on eternal value—reminding readers that wealth is a tool, not a goal. Whether you’re spiritually inclined or not, you’ll find plenty of actionable, grounded wisdom here. A recommended read for anyone seeking both financial clarity and a value-driven path forward.
July 4, 2025
“Resolve: A Personal Financial Planning Book for Twentysomethings Getting Serious About Stewardship” by Will Ertel is a helpful read.
The author was obviously blessed with the conscientious gene, and it’s to your benefit! Because it takes a serious bent of mind to set up and adhere to the rigid plan of saving and careful spending that must have informed the writing of this book.
But the author is realistic. They know we’re reading the book because we need a primer on how to think about trying to start and keep to it. So the book teaches what to do every step of the way. It includes ways to think about saving. And for those who need more inspiration to actually be productive and save, the Bible verses were helpful – as a result, I wish there were more of them inserted throughout.
So I’ll look forward to reading another book by this author that’s full of inspiring Bible verses – to give me the level of self-control I would need to follow these wise lessons.
The author was obviously blessed with the conscientious gene, and it’s to your benefit! Because it takes a serious bent of mind to set up and adhere to the rigid plan of saving and careful spending that must have informed the writing of this book.
But the author is realistic. They know we’re reading the book because we need a primer on how to think about trying to start and keep to it. So the book teaches what to do every step of the way. It includes ways to think about saving. And for those who need more inspiration to actually be productive and save, the Bible verses were helpful – as a result, I wish there were more of them inserted throughout.
So I’ll look forward to reading another book by this author that’s full of inspiring Bible verses – to give me the level of self-control I would need to follow these wise lessons.
October 3, 2023
Helpful and heartwarming
This author lays out a well-balanced financial planning strategy for those in their late twenties thru end of life. The tone is charming and personable. I especially enjoyed references to Grammy and Boppy. The anecdote about Grammy trying and failing to get Thanksgiving dinnerin served at 5 pm will stay with me. A helpful read for newly independent adults, as well as the rest of us.
This author lays out a well-balanced financial planning strategy for those in their late twenties thru end of life. The tone is charming and personable. I especially enjoyed references to Grammy and Boppy. The anecdote about Grammy trying and failing to get Thanksgiving dinnerin served at 5 pm will stay with me. A helpful read for newly independent adults, as well as the rest of us.
June 28, 2025
Resolve is an important book for people, especially those in their 20s. Will Ertel guides you through the importance of managing your finance straight to the point. There is no coddling and really walks you through about managing your finances. From topics about budgeting, saving, investing, and more, it truly provides much-needed guidance to people who are just starting out their lives without being overwhelming. Definitely a must-read!
May 1, 2023
Down to Earth practical advice
I wish I had read this book at twenty. I read it to help me with guiding disadvantaged late teen and early twenties men and women. I found it to be a wonderful insightful read. While largely based on Christian stewardship I did not find it preachy or Christians only, as some reviews stated, but instead found the book to be a wise spiritual approach to practical money management. I learned things I will apply and I am 64. Worth the read.
I wish I had read this book at twenty. I read it to help me with guiding disadvantaged late teen and early twenties men and women. I found it to be a wonderful insightful read. While largely based on Christian stewardship I did not find it preachy or Christians only, as some reviews stated, but instead found the book to be a wise spiritual approach to practical money management. I learned things I will apply and I am 64. Worth the read.
May 18, 2023
Unique Approach to finances
The book presents the aspect of Financial planning from a very unique perspective. The emphasis on the importance of your goal, importance of others and you over money is a valuable lesson. The author presents charity as the first lesson in Financial planning which was an eye opener for me. Overall a good book from a stewardship perspective
The book presents the aspect of Financial planning from a very unique perspective. The emphasis on the importance of your goal, importance of others and you over money is a valuable lesson. The author presents charity as the first lesson in Financial planning which was an eye opener for me. Overall a good book from a stewardship perspective
August 7, 2023
Interesting
If stewardship is important you you as a means of giving this book does a nice job of breaking it down. I have never heard of giving an allowance to a 20 year old in the beginning of the book. That sounds very problematic but I like what the author did and would suggest it for adolescent kids and early teens for sure
If stewardship is important you you as a means of giving this book does a nice job of breaking it down. I have never heard of giving an allowance to a 20 year old in the beginning of the book. That sounds very problematic but I like what the author did and would suggest it for adolescent kids and early teens for sure
April 24, 2024
I think this is an excellent idea for a book regarding personal finances and stewardship. Some may find it worth reading if you are truly a beginner when it comes to financial planning and stewardship. However, this is not the book for someone looking for a more in-depth study on finances, due to its simplicity.
October 22, 2023
Good spiritual financing
I thought the book was interesting giving advice on saving money from a Christian point of view. Resolve was informative, How not to spend on materialize items not of this world. Trying spend less, save more and give to those in need.
Great book
I thought the book was interesting giving advice on saving money from a Christian point of view. Resolve was informative, How not to spend on materialize items not of this world. Trying spend less, save more and give to those in need.
Great book
September 13, 2024
This is a very practical book for college students and young adults in the workforce. Built on a biblical foundation, this book contains a lot of typical financial advice with an atypical focus on God, the church, the family, and generosity.
October 15, 2023
Great read
This book is a Christian approach to financial planning. Giving to a church or any organization is a commendable thing and you are sure to seek the reward.
This book is a Christian approach to financial planning. Giving to a church or any organization is a commendable thing and you are sure to seek the reward.
July 19, 2023
The book was full of helpful reminders and encouragement for me to continue thinking critically about how I should wisely steward God’s money.
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