A Salvation Army officer and her husband discuss the challenges of being a good neighbor in a busy life, and how their community is affected by poverty and a housing crisis. They share their experiences of serving others and how it has helped them live out their calling as Salvation Army officers. [... more]

Meet Louis, a charismatic pool player from St. Louis, Missouri, who dominated the sport for over two decades. Louis's incredible skills, wit, and charm made him a legend in the billiard industry. He even made appearances in the film industry, including in the movie 'The Color of Money.' Unfortunately, Louis's life was cut short when he took his own life in 1991, sending shockwaves throughout the billiard community. [... more]

Matthew McQuarter, a former atheist, shares his journey from law school to becoming a Christian apologist, discussing the importance of evidence and faith in understanding the Bible and Christianity. He explains how his research and experiences led him to trust the Bible and believe in God's existence, and how he now uses his skills as a lawyer to present the case for Christianity. [... more]

The story of Margaret and H.A. Ray, the creators of Curious George, who fled wartime Europe and arrived in the US bringing their ideas and art. Their courage and optimism inspire a new generation of readers and artists, and their legacy lives on through the beloved character of Curious George. [... more]

A family's experience with a horrific car accident highlights the importance of having a long-term care insurance policy in place. The policy provided financial security and allowed the family to focus on their loved one's care, bringing them closer together. A comparison of traditional and hybrid long-term care insurance policies reveals that the hybrid policy may offer more benefits, including a death benefit and tax-free cash, making it a valuable option for families to consider. [... more]

Thomas Jefferson's inaugural address was an impressive event, marked by his speech, which addressed the partisan divide and the bitterness of the election that had just passed. He made a strong claim that the will of the majority must be reasonable and that the minority possess their equal rights, which equal law must protect. Jefferson's words were the balm that the nation needed, and he went on to make a beautiful defense of the American Republic and its ideals. [... more]

Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas engaged in a series of debates in 1858 that would shape the course of American history. The debates centered on the issue of slavery and the principles of democracy, with Lincoln arguing that slavery was morally wrong and Douglas advocating for popular sovereignty. The debates made Lincoln a national figure and set him on the path to the presidency, while also defining the American experiment as the pursuit of natural rights embodied in the Declaration of Independence. [... more]

Christian financial advisors can help clients align their values with their financial decisions, leading to a more fulfilling and responsible approach to money management. By prioritizing stewardship and biblical principles, individuals can make informed choices about their finances and create a more secure financial future. [... more]

A Salvation Army pastor and volunteer share practical ways to make a tremendous impact in local communities through acts of kindness, listening, and prayer, highlighting the importance of being a good neighbor and engaging with those around us. [... more]

A childhood experience of a boy who brings stinky boots to school teaches him valuable life lessons about not judging others, being sensitive, and forgiveness. [... more]

Robert E. Lee, a complex and beloved general, made a decision that would alter the course of his life and history. He rejected command of the Union Army and resigned from the military, citing his inability to raise his sword against his native state of Virginia. However, Lee's decision was not as straightforward as it seemed, and he was motivated by a desire to preserve his family's property and protect his relatives in Virginia. Lee's military strategy was to plunge the Army of Virginia deep into the North to sow chaos and undermine the Union's will to fight. He crossed the Potomac and marched his army northwards, but his plan was foiled by the Federal Army's determination and tenacity. The Battle of Gettysburg was a pivotal moment in the Civil War, and Lee's defeat marked a turning point in the conflict. Despite his military setbacks, Lee remained a respected and admired leader, and his legacy continues to be debated and studied by historians today. [... more]

Retirees face a crucial question: how much can they safely withdraw from their savings without depleting their retirement funds too soon. Mark Biller joins the discussion to revisit the widely used 4% rule and explore a more flexible, thoughtful approach to retirement withdrawals. [... more]

Stu Epperson Jr. shares his personal story of coming to Christ and the importance of being a witness for the gospel. He emphasizes that every believer has an obligation to share the good news with a lost world and that life is a mission trip. Stu also discusses his writing ministry and the need for people to be intentional about sharing their faith with others. [... more]

Character growth, relationships, and the gospel are key to manifesting patience in our lives. We must learn to trust God's timing and have faith that the harvest will come, even if we don't see immediate results. Practicing patience requires understanding people better, being willing to learn from mistakes, and persevering through challenges. [... more]

Dr. Joseph Warren, a young physician, played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, advocating for the rights of the colonists and leading the charge against British tyranny. His bravery and leadership inspired others, and his legacy continues to shape American history. [... more]

Navigating Medicare can be a daunting task, especially with the various options and potential pitfalls. Understanding the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage is crucial, as is being aware of sign-up penalties, the Medicare tax, and the lack of coverage for long-term care. Additionally, knowing how to choose the right Medicare supplement and avoiding managed care can make a significant difference in one's healthcare experience. [... more]

Money is not a zero-sum game, and success is not achieved by exploiting others. Christians should strive to be wise stewards of their finances, creating experiences that draw people closer to Christ and His Word, and then encouraging them to give generously. This approach leads to a more sustainable and substantial inspiration to give, inspiring people to support the church and its mission. [... more]

Washington's farewell address is a pivotal moment in American history, cautioning against the dangers of political parties and factionalism, while emphasizing the importance of unity, national morality, and avoiding entangling foreign alliances. [... more]

Women often struggle with financial confidence due to uncertainty about their identity in Christ, leading to hesitation in making financial decisions. A faith-based approach to financial stewardship can provide a foundation of security and clarity, empowering women to make wise financial decisions and live out their purpose. [... more]

Jim Henson's life and work are a testament to his creativity, innovation, and ability to adapt and innovate. From his early days as a puppeteer to his creation of the Muppets and Sesame Street, Henson's legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world. [... more]

Wealth in itself is not the problem, but the behavior of those who have it can be. Christians often struggle with the topic of money, but it's not about being reckless or making bad decisions. It's about not letting money control your life and being generous to others. [... more]

Dr. Abadan Shah and his team discuss the dangers of procrastination in ministry and leadership, highlighting the importance of living in the present and making decisions with urgency, as they reflect on the consequences of delaying actions and the benefits of living a life of faithfulness and productivity. [... more]

On this episode of Our American Stories after RMS Titanic struck an iceberg on April two young men spent the next minutes sending frantic distress calls across the North Atlantic to anyone who could hear them Their names were Jack Phillips and Harold Bride They kept working as the ship took on water using one of the most advanced communication systems of its time to reach nearby vessels and call for help before the sinking became inevitable After all the fate of more than people rested in their fingers William Hazelgrove author of One Hundred and Sixty Minutes The Race [... more]

The Salvation Army's Words of Life podcast explores the importance of being a good neighbor and spreading hope in local communities through faith and community engagement. Guests share personal stories of building relationships and providing support to those in need, highlighting the impact of loving one's neighbors and the transformative power of faith. [... more]

Abraham Lincoln's body was nearly stolen by a group of grave robbers after his death, but the Secret Service foiled the plot. The would-be thieves were led by Big Jim Canali, who planned to steal Lincoln's body and hold it for ransom. The Secret Service had infiltrated the gang and were waiting for the perfect moment to catch them. However, one of the agents accidentally fired his gun, causing the gang to flee. They were eventually caught and arrested, but not before the Secret Service had to move Lincoln's coffin to a more secure location. The coffin was moved several times over the years, and it wasn't until 1887 that it was finally secured beneath 18 inches of cement. [... more]

The church plays a vital role in shaping the faith of children, but with the rise of screen addiction, parents and pastors must find new ways to disciple kids in today's digital age. Awana, a global leader in child discipleship, equips churches with training and resources to help parents and leaders shape the faith of children and reach them with the gospel. [... more]

God's sovereign will and plan for our lives is a concept that is often misunderstood. Many people view God as distant and uninvolved, but the Bible teaches that He is a living person who cares deeply about every decision we make. When we understand this, our approach to planning and decision-making changes. We begin to ask, 'What is God's will for my life?' and 'How can I align my plans with His?' This requires a daily walk with Jesus Christ, where we seek to know Him and His ways. Through prayer and obedience, we can learn to discern God's voice and follow His lead, even in the midst of uncertainty and suffering. [... more]

The 1864 Battle of Monocacy, also known as the battle to save Washington, D.C., was a pivotal event in American history. Union General Lou Wallace, with a small force of mostly inexperienced troops, held off Confederate General Jubal Early's army, giving Grant time to send reinforcements to the capital. The battle resulted in significant casualties on both sides, but ultimately, the Confederates were repelled, and Washington, D.C. was saved. This event had a profound impact on the 1864 presidential election, as Lincoln's victory was largely due to the Union's success in defending the capital. [... more]

Discovering true contentment in a world that always pushes us toward more requires a shift in perspective. It's not about reaching a certain number, but about trusting God as our source and recognizing that enough is ultimately a matter of the heart, not a number. By understanding that enough is rooted in stewardship, not ownership, and that it's about purpose, not possessions, we can find peace and security in our financial journey. [... more]

When one spouse dies, the surviving spouse's Social Security check is affected, and the amount they receive depends on various factors, including the deceased spouse's filing status, age, and benefit amount. Understanding these complexities is crucial for effective retirement planning and ensuring a secure financial future. [... more]

Planning for the future without God can lead to disaster, while trusting in His plan can bring long-term success and fulfillment. Dr. Shah emphasizes the importance of valuing people and seeing them as valuable, rather than just using them as means to an end. He also encourages listeners to take their life seriously and not waste it, as life is short and unpredictable, like a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. [... more]

The cure for conflict lies in changing one's perspective, understanding the world's system, and resisting the devil. Humility is key, and drawing near to God can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and the world. [... more]

Washington Irving, an American original, was a literary celebrity who brought literature to the common man using plain spoken English. He created the modern American Christmas story and inadvertently gave us Halloween through the headless horseman. Irving was a huge fan of Spain and lived there, where he worked as a diplomat and ambassador, and he was known for his hustle and loyalty to his friends. [... more]

Conflict is a natural part of life, but it can be devastating to relationships and marriages when left unchecked. Selfishness is often the root cause of conflict, and it can manifest in subtle and obvious ways. The Bible teaches that prayer and faith are essential in dealing with conflict and seeking God's will. By admitting our selfishness and seeking God's intervention, we can begin to work towards healing and reconciliation in our relationships. [... more]

Henry Ford's legacy is deeply ingrained in American history, from the invention of the Model T to the creation of the modern assembly line. His innovative approach to mass production and consumerism transformed the automobile industry and had a profound impact on society. Ford's courage and conviction in the face of adversity are a testament to his enduring legacy. [... more]

Exploring the concept of grateful living and how it can transform our approach to money and contentment. John Cortinez discusses the cycle of grateful living, which involves enjoying God's provision, accepting life's brevity, and rejoicing in our toil. He also shares practical insights on how to apply this biblical financial vision in our daily lives. [... more]

Wise people are those who exhibit integrity, peaceableness, gentleness, teachability, willingness to yield, and fullness of mercy. They do not let bitterness consume them and instead choose to trust God's grace and timing. A wise person is also one who plays fair and does not pretend to be perfect, but rather acknowledges their weaknesses and trusts others to do the same. [... more]

Women played a crucial role in boosting military morale during World War I by interacting with soldiers in canteens and clubs, creating a sense of home away from home. Organizations like the YMCA and Salvation Army sought out women to work with soldiers, but had to balance their roles as wholesome reminders of home and family with the need to keep soldiers from prostitution. The experience of women like Emma Young Dixon, who served in a canteen in France, helped pave the way for women's suffrage and the eventual formation of the USO. [... more]

George Washington's approach to leadership and the early years of the United States are explored, including his cabinet appointments, the creation of a national bank, and the country's early economic development. The podcast delves into the competing visions of America held by Washington's cabinet members, particularly Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson, and how these visions shaped the country's future. [... more]

Dr. Abadan Shah discusses the characteristics of wisdom, as outlined in the book of James, including maintaining integrity, being peaceable, having a gentle spirit, being willing to yield, and being full of mercy and good fruits. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating these qualities in one's life and provides examples from his own experiences and the lives of others. [... more]