The persecuted church is a reality for millions of Christians around the world, facing intense pressure, violence, and discrimination. In this podcast, a guest shares stories of believers in Nigeria, Iran, and North Korea, highlighting their courage and resilience in the face of adversity. The conversation also touches on the importance of empowering the persecuted church, providing support and resources to help them stand strong in their faith. [... 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]

North Carolina's state budget is facing a surplus, with lawmakers cautioning that rising costs and future tax cuts could strain finances. The North Carolina State Board of Elections certified the 2026 primary election results, with early voting up 25% from the last midterm primary. The Trump administration canceled two large offshore wind farm electrical generation leases, with Total Energies set to reinvest the money into LNG, oil, and other forms of electrical generation. North Carolina's community colleges are enrolling more students than at any point since before the COVID-19 pandemic, with full-time equivalent enrollment growing by 23%. A new labeling standard for meat, poultry, and egg producers, known as Product of the USA, was launched by the USDA, allowing producers to label their products as 'Made in the USA'. [... more]

Understanding the three-legged stool of retirement income, Americans rely on Social Security, employer-sponsored plans, and personal savings, with individual retirement accounts playing a crucial role. Mark Biller breaks down the differences between traditional and Roth IRAs, discussing tax implications, contribution limits, and eligibility. He also shares practical advice on setting up business finances, including separating personal and business accounts, choosing a simple accounting system, and treating taxes as a bill to be paid. [... more]

Voters in North Carolina head to the polls on primary election day, with a Senate primary and several other key races drawing attention. The state's voting requirements include showing a valid photo ID, and voters must cast their ballots in their assigned precinct. Despite low turnout, the election is expected to be closely watched, with some races potentially going down to the wire. [... more]

A recent poll in North Carolina shows that 50% of Republican primary voters are unsure of their choice, with Michael Wiley leading at 38%. The poll also found that 81% of Republican primary voters approve of President Donald Trump's job performance, but only 68.7% are enthusiastic about the primary. The poll also touched on media consumption, with 43.7% of respondents getting their news from cable TV and 39.5% from social media. [... more]

Developing spiritual intimacy in marriage is key to a deeper connection with your partner. Chip Ingram shares practical steps to build this foundation, including praying together, worshiping together, and taking baby steps towards a stronger relationship. By focusing on God's love and commitment, couples can overcome challenges and cultivate a more fulfilling marriage. [... more]

Cultivating spiritual intimacy is key to keeping love alive in marriage. Chip Ingram shares practical insights on how to develop this essential skill, drawing from biblical teachings and personal experiences. By focusing on God's design for marriage and choosing unconditional love, couples can build a deeper connection and navigate life's challenges together. [... more]

Developing spiritual intimacy in marriage requires recognizing the supremacy of Christ's role and relationship in your marriage, actively believing in God's love, and cultivating a deeper connection with your mate by following God's design for marriage. [... more]

The release of the Epstein files has exposed a vast network of powerful individuals and organizations involved in pedophilia and other illicit activities. The files reveal a coordinated effort to cover up these crimes and protect the perpetrators. The discussion centers around the implications of these revelations and the potential consequences for those involved. [... more]

Chip Ingram reveals the secret to authentic humility, explaining that it's not something you feel your way into, but rather something you obey your way into. He shares the importance of servanthood, love, and faith in achieving true greatness, and challenges listeners to consider others more important than themselves and to serve without seeking recognition. [... more]

Choosing contentment is a daily path that comes from a surrendered heart, cultivated through walking with Christ. It's not found in having everything, but in knowing the one who is everything. A biblical approach to financial decisions and stewardship can help individuals navigate their finances and make wise investment choices, especially in retirement. Additionally, seeking help with debt and credit counseling can provide freedom and peace of mind. [... more]

North Carolina's finances are heading in the right direction in the new year, with a $20 billion reduction in total debt, according to State Treasurer Brad Breiner. The state's economic outlook for 2026 is also strong, with experts predicting a 2.6% increase in real GDP. However, a major political scandal is rocking the state, with federal officials threatening to pull nearly $50 million in federal funding due to issues with commercial driver's licenses issued to foreign nationals. [... more]

The Christmas story reveals the heart of God and generosity through the lives of unlikely people, including the Magi, shepherds, Joseph, and Mary, who respond to God's love and sacrifice, demonstrating that generosity is not just about giving money, but about giving time, reputation, future, and life, and that increasing levels of generosity bring increasing levels of reward and blessing. [... more]

God measures generosity not by the size of the gift, but by the size of the sacrifice. True generosity touches the deepest parts of who you are and what you value most, and is an act of love that cultivates intimacy with God and overflows into relationships. [... more]

Pastor Greg Laurie discusses the significance of Jesus' birth and the importance of eagerly awaiting his return. He shares the stories of Simeon and Anna, who waited for the Messiah, and encourages listeners to live with a sense of purpose and expectation, using their treasure, talent, and time to serve God and share the gospel with others. [... more]

North Carolina's charitable donations have rebounded after a slump last year, with licensed charities collecting $48.14 million from July 2024 to June 2025, a $21 million increase from the previous year. The state's tax competitiveness has also been ranked 13th in the 2026 State Tax Competitive Index, with North Carolina performing well in corporate taxes and property taxes. However, the index recommends that the state reform its franchise tax and adopt permanent full expensing to improve its tax competitiveness. Meanwhile, the University of North Carolina system is considering tuition increases, with some universities already seeking increases citing strained budgets. A lawsuit is also ongoing regarding the state health plan's exclusion of certain treatments for transgender individuals, with all parties agreeing to put the case on hold until a similar case in West Virginia is decided. [... more]

Life is full of troubles, but Jesus says, 'Don't let your heart be troubled, but believe in God, believe also in me.' Pastor Greg Laurie shares how to find peace and trust in God's sovereignty, even in the face of uncertainty and fear. [... more]

Bill Gates discusses his personal reasons for investing in Alzheimer's research, including his father's experience with the disease, and a new treatment breakthrough that could be a game changer. He talks about the importance of funding research and the potential side effects of decreasing investment, including delays in breakthroughs and increased costs for the government and families affected by the disease. [... more]

Generosity is more than just giving money; it's about heart and presence. Long-term generosity begins at home and grows outward, shaping hearts, strengthening families, and building communities of grace. Christian financial advisors can help individuals align their values with their financial decisions and investments, leading to a lasting impact. [... more]