James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States, is a lesser-known figure in American history. Despite his lack of charisma and personal scandals, Polk was a highly effective one-term president who added more territory to the United States than the Louisiana Purchase. He was driven by the concept of Manifest Destiny, which held that Americans were destined to spread their culture and religion across the North American continent. Polk's presidency was marked by his ambitious goals, including the annexation of Texas and the acquisition of Oregon and California. He was a workaholic who trusted no one and was involved in every aspect of government. Polk's legacy is complex and multifaceted, and his story is a fascinating one that sheds light on the early 19th century and the growth of the United States. [... more]

Jim Keyes shares his story of rising from poverty to become the CEO of 7-Eleven, and how he discovered the American Dream through the company's franchisees. He talks about the importance of convenience and innovation in business, and how 7-Eleven's early success was due to its ability to adapt to changing times. [... more]

The Nativity story is filled with examples of God using the ordinary to accomplish the extraordinary. The city of Bethlehem holds great significance, being the birthplace of Jesus and fulfilling an important prophecy about his birth with amazing accuracy. The story of Bethlehem is one of sorrow, selection, and salvation, with the city being prepared historically, symbolically, and prophetically for the birth of Christ. [... more]

A family recounts their harrowing experience during the 2018 mass shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and grapples with the mystery of why some lives are spared while others are lost. [... more]

The history and significance of Veterans Day, including its origins as Armistice Day and the use of Blue Star and Gold Star banners to honor those who served and sacrificed during World War I and other conflicts. [... more]

Faith is the realization of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen, and the substance of God's promises. It's a gift from God that enables believers to treat the future as present and the invisible as visible, making the unseen world a part of their reality. Through faith, people can overcome obstacles and achieve the impossible, as seen in the examples of the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11. [... more]

The American Revolution is a pivotal moment in American history, but its significance extends beyond the war itself. Meanwhile, the cost of childcare has become a major challenge for millions of families, with some states offering free childcare as a solution. In other news, actor George Clooney discusses his latest film and his approach to aging, while author Salman Rushdie reflects on his life and work in the face of adversity. [... more]

Joshua's leadership and dependence on God led to the Israelites' victory in the promised land. He circumcised the second generation of Israelites, remembered God's faithfulness, and met Jesus in a Christophany. This encounter with God's presence and power prepared them for the challenges ahead, demonstrating that dependence on God is key to achieving victory and success. [... more]

Jim Keated shares his story of turning around companies, including 7-Eleven and Blockbuster, and the lessons he learned along the way. He discusses the importance of persistence and determination in the face of adversity, and how he was inspired by a quote from Calvin Coolidge to keep pushing forward. [... more]

The Bible teaches that Jesus Christ will return to earth visibly, supernaturally, literally, and to the same spot where he left from, bringing justice to those who have wronged others and fulfilling the promise of God's righteous judgment. [... more]

The feeling of loneliness can be overwhelming, but Jesus offers a promise of presence and companionship in the darkest of times. Through the Bible, we see that God has always been with His people, even in the midst of fear and anxiety, and that He will never leave us or forsake us. This promise brings hope and resiliency to our lives, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles, but rather, we are with the living Christ, together in every valley of the shadow of death. [... more]

Jesus gives his followers the prime directive, also known as the Great Commission, to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything he has commanded. This mission has a well-defined scope, message, and goal, and is not a suggestion but a command from the risen Lord. [... more]

The importance of loving others as Jesus has loved us is emphasized, and Pastor Lutzer shares a story about a church that showed compassion to those in need, highlighting the need for Christians to love one another as Jesus has loved us. He also explains that the Ten Commandments were given to show us our helplessness and sinfulness, and that Jesus' death on the cross fulfills the law and provides the righteousness we need to enter the kingdom of heaven. [... more]

Jesus teaches that the greatest commandment is to love God with all one's heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love one's neighbor as oneself. This fulfills the law and pleases God, and is the foundation for living a holy life. [... more]

Jim Keyes, former CEO of 7-Eleven and Blockbuster, shares his inspiring story of overcoming poverty and adversity to achieve success. Growing up in a challenging environment, Keyes learned the value of hard work and self-sufficiency, which ultimately led him to become a leader in the business world. [... more]

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is predicted to be slightly above-average, with 13 to 19 total named storms, 6 to 10 of which are expected to become hurricanes. The North Carolina DMV is facing long-standing issues, including outdated computer systems and strained staffing levels, which are causing frustration for customers. Officials are working on solutions, including privatizing some services and modernizing systems, to improve the customer experience and efficiency. [... more]

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a pivotal moment in history, authenticating his message and changing lives. Mark's Gospel highlights Jesus' servanthood and the power of the Holy Spirit, transforming individuals and communities. The resurrection is not just a celebration, but a reality that empowers believers to live a new life, break addictions, and overcome prejudice, treating others with love and respect. [... more]

Wendy Speak shares her book 40 Days Social Media Fast, encouraging listeners to put their phones down and focus on real-life devotion. She discusses the importance of setting a good example for children, managing screen time, and being aware of how God might want to use us in relationships. [... more]

The concept of freedom in Christ is explored through the lens of Scripture, highlighting the difference between living under the law and living under God's grace. The discussion delves into the nature of sin, the curse of the law, and the transformative power of God's unmerited blessings. The importance of repentance, sanctification, and holy living is emphasized, with a focus on the joy and peace that come from obeying God and staying within His boundaries. [... more]

The book of Ecclesiastes explores the meaninglessness of life under the sun, where people seek purpose without Christ. Earthbound thinking limits us to a materialist perspective, leading to a fleeting and frustrating life. God's self-disclosure offers a glimpse of meaning and purpose beyond the material world, revealing a higher purpose and future full of hope. [... more]