North Carolina lawmakers have passed a state budget that includes tax cuts, teacher raises, and disaster recovery funding. The budget, which was passed with bipartisan support, now heads to Governor Josh Stein's desk for signature. The budget also includes funding for economic development projects, including a commercial aircraft manufacturing facility in Greensboro. Meanwhile, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved over $197 million in additional disaster recovery funding for Western North Carolina, which was affected by Hurricane Helene. [... more]

The North Carolina General Assembly has passed a budget that includes significant investments in teacher pay raises, public safety, and infrastructure. The budget also allocates funds for farming and water and wastewater infrastructure. Representative Brendan Jones, the Republican majority leader, described the budget as a responsible and conservative budget that prioritizes the needs of working families, teachers, and law enforcement. However, some Democrats have expressed concerns about the budget's impact on public schools and the diversion of taxpayer money to private school vouchers. [... more]

A $34.4 billion state budget has been unveiled in North Carolina, with a 7% increase from the last budget. The plan includes an average 8% pay raise for educators, a 3% raise for all other state employees, and bonuses for certain positions. The budget also includes tax cuts, with the personal income tax rate set to decrease to 3.49% from 2027 to 2029. Additionally, the plan allocates more than $700 million for Hurricane Helene relief and $450 million to the Rainy Day Fund. [... more]

Certified Kingdom Advisors help individuals integrate their faith with financial decisions, offering guidance on biblical finance, faith-based investing, and charitable giving. They emphasize the importance of stewardship, financial planning, and living out Christian values in all aspects of life. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers are set to unveil a new state budget, which includes raises for state employees and teachers, as well as tax cuts. Meanwhile, Duke Energy has agreed to cancel its offshore wind energy project and reinvest $129 million in other energy sources. A lawsuit filed by bar owners against former Governor Roy Cooper and the state of North Carolina over COVID-19 restrictions is moving forward, with the plaintiffs seeking depositions from Cooper and his former Health and Human Services Secretary, Mandy Cohen. [... more]

Rob West and his team offer guidance on retirement planning, financial stewardship, and biblical finance, discussing topics such as investment strategies, debt management, banking options, charitable giving, and fixed indexed annuities, helping listeners make informed decisions about their finances and live out their faith. [... more]

Pastor JD Greer discusses the importance of unity in the church, using the book of 1 Corinthians as a guide. He explains that unity is not uniformity, but rather a shared understanding and conviction about the gospel, and that it requires embracing grace, enlarging Christ, and weaning oneself off celebrity leaders. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers are tackling gang violence with new legislation, while also addressing budget concerns and promoting economic growth through tax cuts. Meanwhile, the state is pushing for health care reform, including a repeal of the certificate of need law, and re-evaluating the NC Innovation program. [... more]

Believers are becoming more intentional about incorporating their values into financial decisions, including where they bank and how their bank uses their money. Christian banking options like Adelphi Christian Banking offer a way to integrate faith and financial decisions for the glory of God. Meanwhile, individuals are navigating complex financial decisions such as retirement planning, budgeting, and tithing, seeking to honor God with their finances and trust in His provision. [... more]

Exploring biblical generosity and its impact on financial stewardship, discovering the joy and freedom that comes from giving, and navigating complex financial situations with wisdom and trust in God's guidance. [... more]

The case for God's existence is a central theme in apologetics, with various approaches, including classical and presuppositional methods. Classical apologetics aims to prove God's existence through rational arguments, while presuppositional apologetics starts with the assumption of God's existence. The debate between these two approaches highlights the importance of establishing God's existence in the process of knowing. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers are set to tackle a busy legislative calendar in June, with a focus on the state budget and tax cuts. The state's economic growth has been bolstered by tax cuts, but Medicaid expansion has put pressure on the budget. Lawmakers are also considering changes to the Rainy Day Fund and the NC Innovation program, which has been criticized for using taxpayer dollars for venture capital investments. [... more]

The early church had to deal with the heresy of Gnosticism, which rejected the physical world and saw matter as inherently evil. Gnostics believed in a cosmology where God emanated from a higher spiritual realm, and the material world was a result of an intermediate creator. They also believed in a dualistic view of reality, separating spirit and matter. The Gnostics' view of Jesus was as a spiritual being who appeared in human form, but not as a physical person. This view was rejected by the early church, which saw it as fundamentally anti-Christian. [... more]

Understanding the proper biblical doctrine of election and salvation is crucial for gaining true assurance of one's salvation. Dr. R.C. Sproll examines the relationship between election and assurance, highlighting the importance of theology and the role of the Holy Spirit in regeneration and salvation. [... more]

The New York Knicks pull off an epic comeback in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals, with Jalen Brunson leading the charge. Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama shines in his first game back from an injury, scoring 41 points and grabbing 24 rebounds for the San Antonio Spurs. In the NFL, the Pittsburgh Steelers welcome back Aaron Rodgers, who is looking to lead his team to victory in his first game back. [... more]

The San Diego mosque shooting has raised concerns about sectarian violence and the mosque's history of controversy. Meanwhile, the Iran-US conflict continues to escalate, with the US considering a military attack. The FBI is undergoing reforms to restore public trust and focus on its core mission of protecting the American people. The Second Amendment is also a topic of discussion, with some arguing that it can deter crime. Additionally, identity theft is a growing concern, and Relief Factor is a product that can help alleviate everyday aches and pains. Florida Man is a recurring segment that highlights bizarre news stories, and an asteroid is narrowly missing Earth. [... more]

North Carolina's latest revenue forecast shows stronger than expected economic growth and tax collection across the state, with projected general fund revenues revised to $2.6 billion above the certified budget. A constitutional amendment to protect the right of people to engage in farming and forestry is being proposed, and lawmakers are considering a budget that includes a $500 million endowment for NC Innovation to commercialize university research. [... more]

An emergency fund acts as a financial shock absorber, providing stability and breathing room during uncertain times. Wise financial planning involves considering factors such as income stability, job loss, and medical emergencies when determining the right amount to save. Understanding Social Security and disability insurance can help individuals plan for retirement and navigate complex financial situations. Charitable giving through qualified charitable distributions can also be a strategic way to reduce taxable income and give back to the community. [... more]

The nature of a true church is discussed, with emphasis on the marks of a valid church, including the faithful preaching of the gospel, the administration of sacraments, and authentic discipline. The importance of discerning between a true and false church is highlighted, and guidance is provided on when to leave a church, including situations where the church is corrupt, apostate, or failing to discipline its members. [... more]

President Trump calls on Americans to make more babies, and the Todd Sterns Radio Show creates a Baby Making Music playlist to help set the mood. The show also discusses the importance of family, marriage, and love in American society, as well as the challenges facing the country, including a declining birth rate, a struggling economy, and a growing national debt. The hosts also touch on politics, including the upcoming midterm elections and the role of social media in shaping public opinion. [... more]

Jesus calls a notorious tax collector named Matthew to be one of his disciples, showing that no unbeliever is ever beyond the reach of redemption. Matthew's conversion is a powerful example of God's grace and mercy, and he becomes a faithful disciple, using his past experiences to reach out to others and introduce them to Jesus. [... more]

Historic Christianity has always struggled with heresy and the impact of liberalism on the church, leading to division and the need for unity and purity in doctrine and practice. [... more]

Representative Carla Cunningham switches party affiliation from Democrat to unaffiliated, potentially impacting veto overrides in the North Carolina House. Meanwhile, a new infusion of federal disaster funding highlights progress and challenges in Western North Carolina's recovery from Hurricane Helene. Governor Josh Stein's proposed budget would phase out the Opportunity Scholarship Program, affecting an estimated 60,000 students. The U.S. Postal Service's regulations on cluster box units are causing delays and adding costs to housing developments, making homes less affordable for many families. U.S. Representative Alma Adams was cleared of any wrongdoing after an investigation by the House Ethics Committee regarding an alleged inappropriate relationship with a staffer. [... more]

Faithful planning is a delicate balance between preparation and surrender, trusting in God's guidance and wisdom. It's about holding plans loosely enough for God to redirect them, embracing the paradox of planning, and finding peace and trust in the one who holds the future. [... more]

A contentious committee hearing in Raleigh revealed that the Chapel Hill-Carborough City School District is not in compliance with Senate Bill 49, the Parents' Bill of Rights, which aims to increase transparency in curriculum and protect children from inappropriate content. The district's superintendent, Dr. Rodney Trice, was questioned by lawmakers over the district's handling of materials in its libraries, with some lawmakers expressing concerns that the district is intentionally subverting the law. Meanwhile, the North Carolina Supreme Court is considering a rehearing of the Leandro case, a 32-year-old legal challenge to education funding in the state. The case has been a major point of contention in North Carolina politics for decades, with some lawmakers arguing that it is a key factor in the state's education funding woes. [... more]

Governor Josh Stein laid out his recommended state budget for fiscal year 26-27, proposing a $3 billion spending increase and tax cuts. He emphasized the need to invest in public education, workforce development, and public safety, while also addressing issues like childcare and housing costs. The governor's budget also includes proposals to increase teacher pay, expand community college programs, and provide more funding for school safety and mental health services. [... 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]

The North Carolina State Board of Elections adopted new non-citizen voter rules despite heated debate. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein is calling for the legalization of recreational marijuana, citing a report that warns of the dangers of the state's unregulated cannabis market. Additionally, Duke Energy is seeking a $800 million rate increase to recoup energy costs from a recent cold snap. The U.S. birth rate has hit a record low, with implications for the economy and public education. North Carolina's demographic shift is expected to have significant impacts on the state's economy and education system. [... more]

Everyday banking can become a tool for God's kingdom when financial decisions align with faith. Christian Community Credit Union and Adelphi offer unique approaches to banking, supporting churches, families, and ministries worldwide. By integrating faith with finances, individuals can make a tangible impact on their communities and beyond. [... more]

Mark Nicholson shares his testimony as a pro-life missionary and executive director of Passion Life Ministries, highlighting the importance of introducing the gospel in difficult circumstances, particularly in countries with declining population rates and abortion issues. [... more]

The Artemis mission and its Christian pilot's witness, the Iran war and just war theory, transgender issues and gender dysphoria, the decline in teen birth rates and its implications, and the complexities of abortion and assisted suicide are all discussed from a Christian worldview. [... more]

Preparing the next steward is crucial to intentionally passing on wisdom before wealth. The Bible never defines inheritance as merely financial, but rather as a tool for kingdom impact. Families should focus on transferring stewardship, not just assets, and prioritize spiritual formation, understanding of stewardship, and trust in God as the true provider. [... more]

Dr. Tony Evans discusses the importance of serving Christ sacrificially, authentically, enthusiastically, relationally, and dependently, emphasizing the need to live a life based on grace rather than merit or human effort. [... more]

Developing holy craving for God's word is essential for spiritual growth and maturity. Christians must put aside sinful attitudes like malice, deceit, envy, and slander to cultivate a deep longing for the pure milk of God's word, which brings about growth in faith and salvation. [... 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]

The Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of spiritual maturity in young men, urging them to live a lifestyle that is radically different from the world. He commands Titus to show young men the pattern of godly living, which includes self-control, good deeds, and purity in doctrine. Paul stresses that spiritual maturity is not guaranteed and must be modeled, and that young men need a culture that can help them define worthy aspirations and live a life that matters. [... 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]

Women are increasingly becoming the primary financial decision makers after inheriting wealth from their spouses, and with this responsibility comes the opportunity for wise and faithful stewardship. Sharon Epps, president of Kingdom Advisors, shares insights from research on Christian women's financial habits and generosity, highlighting the importance of clarity, confidence, and biblical understanding in making financial decisions. [... more]

A report from the North Carolina Energy Policy Task Force warns of rising energy rates amid a demand boom, recommending policies to ensure affordable, reliable, and clean energy supplies. Meanwhile, the state's Department of Environmental Quality awards $5.7 million in grants for flood resiliency projects in Western North Carolina, aiming to reduce flood risks and protect surrounding communities. [... more]

The desire for genuine connections and friendships is a fundamental human need, but the rise of social media has led to a sense of loneliness and disconnection. A Christian author shares his personal struggles with loneliness and how he found meaningful friendships through vulnerability and authenticity. [... more]