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]

When someone you love is suffering, it's tough to discern what they actually need from you. A biblical model for coming alongside the suffering involves compassion, instruction, exhortation, and intercession. God promises to walk with us through hardship, not to rescue us from it. [... more]

A new committee is formed in the North Carolina General Assembly to investigate the release of 4,200 inmates from prison under a settlement in 2021, sparking public safety concerns. Meanwhile, a state audit reveals $1.25 million in mental health resources were spent on items like stuffed animals and plants instead of supporting students and faculty in Western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene. The state auditor's office is working to bring transparency to how hurricane relief funds are spent, and the issue raises questions about waste and abuse in government spending. [... more]

Developing faith, exposing wrong, learning obedience, cultivating humility, and glorifying God are reasons we suffer, as explained through scripture and personal experiences, highlighting the importance of compassion, instruction, and exhortation in helping those who are suffering. [... more]

Chuck Swindahl explores five biblical reasons for suffering, including developing faith, exposing wrong, learning obedience, cultivating humility, and glorifying God. He draws from 2 Thessalonians and shares practical ways to encourage those who are suffering, emphasizing the importance of compassion and affirming their dignity and security in God's family. [... more]

Paul's message in Galatians emphasizes the importance of understanding the gospel and not reducing faith to a list of moral codes or external regulations. He highlights the difference between being a slave and a son, and encourages believers to walk with God in a personal and intimate relationship, rather than relying on external rules and rituals. [... more]

Coming to the throne of grace, we find mercy and help in time of need. As children of God, we have instantaneous access to His presence, and He provides exactly what we need, whether it's comfort, forgiveness, or encouragement. The Heavenly Father's love and goodness are undeserving, and He desires continuous fellowship and conversation with us, making our relationship with Him the most satisfying and contenting experience in life. [... 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]

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]

God invites believers to come into His presence, to talk with Him in fellowship, and to experience His love, mercy, and grace. This is made possible through Jesus Christ, who took the sin debt of the world upon Himself at the cross and made it possible for us to approach the throne of God with confidence and boldness. [... more]

A look at the latest developments in North Carolina politics, including the U.S. Senate race between Roy Cooper and Michael Watley, and the ongoing debate over tax reform and property tax rates. Additionally, the state health plan is seeking a new third-party administrator and pharmacy benefit manager. [... more]

The biblical view on paying taxes is discussed, with a focus on the responsibility of Christians to be good citizens and stewards of their finances. The conversation also touches on the importance of accountability in government and the need for Christians to trust God with their finances. [... more]

Exploring a more biblical perspective on borrowing and debt management, and how it can impact our financial freedom and ability to live out God's call in our lives. Discussing the importance of budgeting, retirement planning, and understanding taxes and Medicare, to make informed financial decisions and find freedom rooted in contentment, not comparison. [... 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]

North Carolina made a pivotal decision 250 years ago, adopting the Halifax Resolves, which authorized its representatives to vote for independence from Great Britain, making it the first colony to do so. The document's significance is being renewed as state leaders and historians commemorate its anniversary. Meanwhile, a Vietnamese electric car manufacturer, VinFast, has faced delays and setbacks in its North Carolina factory plans, raising questions about the company's ability to meet its hiring goals and the state's investment in the project. [... more]

North Carolina's rural healthcare system is on unstable footing, with hospital leaders warning of potential closures due to financial strain. The state legislature is considering a $213 million plan to stabilize and transform care in rural areas. Meanwhile, a lawsuit is underway challenging the Trump administration's tariff policies, with multiple states, including North Carolina, joining the suit. Additionally, wildfires are burning across the state, with agricultural officials warning of the risks facing communities statewide. [... more]

Joseph's brothers come to Egypt to buy grain, unaware that they are bowing down to their long-lost brother, who has risen to become the Prime Minister. Joseph, exercising his authority, begins a calculated deception to test his brothers' character and faith, mirroring God's way of chastening his people. [... more]

Allegations of election mismanagement and misconduct have been made against the election director in Anson County, North Carolina, with claims of failure to execute lawful board duties, interference with statutory duties, and mismanagement affecting election administration. The county board has filed a petition to remove the director, and the state board of elections will decide whether to terminate her. Meanwhile, a lawsuit over election integrity in North Carolina has been settled, with the state board of elections agreeing to comply with a 2023 law requiring the removal of non-citizen voters from the rolls. [... more]

North Carolina's latest statewide audit of federal spending identifies questionable costs and reporting failures across multiple agencies. The audit resulted in 19 findings, including 18 related to federal awards and one tied to financial statement reporting. The state auditor's office will provide oversight for the $650 million stadium renovation project in Charlotte, the largest expense of public dollars in the history of the state. [... more]

Intentional giving is an act of discipleship that connects our resources to God's redemptive work in the world. It's not just another financial habit, but a response to the favor we've already received. Generosity becomes one of the most exciting things we do with our money when we realize that our work and income aren't just about survival or success, but about joining God in meeting needs and restoring the lives of others. [... more]

A majority of North Carolina voters oppose deploying ground troops to Iran, and a plurality say the United States was wrong to launch military action there. Meanwhile, lawmakers in the North Carolina General Assembly are scrutinizing the costs of renewable energy, particularly solar power, and its impact on the state's energy grid and taxpayers. [... more]

Loving our neighbors is the second greatest commandment, foundational to everything, yet it can be a challenging area in the Christian life, requiring help from God and a personal transformation to live out what we intellectually believe. [... more]

Jesus' final request in his high priestly prayer is for those whom God has given him to be with him and see his glory, a selfless desire rooted in the love of the Father for his Son, and a promise of eternal life and union with God. [... more]

Faith-based investing can align your investments with your values without sacrificing performance or diversification. Professional portfolio managers use sound investment analysis to produce competitive returns. T-bills are a low-risk investment option, but high-yield savings or money market accounts may be a better long-term solution. Payday loans can lead to a cycle of debt and should be avoided, with debt consolidation options available through organizations like Christian Credit Counselors. [... more]

God humbles those he uses greatly, and Peter's life changed after facing his failure and being corrected by Jesus. Jesus' love for Peter was tested, corrected, and protected by the provision of grace, showing that our love for Christ is tested in opposition, corrected by brokenness, and protected by the provision of grace. [... more]

Harlan Akola discusses the benefits and misconceptions of reverse mortgages, explaining how they can be a valuable tool for seniors struggling with cash flow and high-interest debt. He also addresses common concerns and provides guidance on how to approach debt management and retirement planning with a biblical perspective. [... more]

The United States is facing challenges with Iran, NATO, and the Strait of Hormuz, with President Trump's policies sparking controversy and debate. Meanwhile, immigration and economic issues continue to be major topics of discussion, with some arguing that the US needs to take a stronger stance on global politics and foreign policy. [... more]

North Carolina faces a nearly $2.8 billion revenue shortfall over the next two years, according to Governor Josh Stein. Meanwhile, a long-standing election dispute in the small town of Pembroke has finally been resolved, with the challenger, Alan Dial, being certified as the winner after a two-and-a-half-year battle. The state is also dealing with wildfires and a burn ban, with crews making progress in containing the fires. [... more]

A federal judge upholds a North Carolina law changing same-day voter rules, while the state's Board of Elections reviews 15,000 comments on its adoption of a rule for non-citizen list maintenance. Meanwhile, the state's tax policy is compared to that of Vegas casinos, which treat high-net worth individuals well, and the North Carolina Forest Service is working to contain multiple wildfires across the state. [... more]

A statewide burn ban is in effect in North Carolina due to drought severity and forecast fire weather, with six major wildfires burning across the state. Meanwhile, recovery efforts continue in western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene, with some areas seeing progress and others still facing significant challenges. North Carolina's Republican congressional delegation is urging the Department of Homeland Security to clear administrative bottlenecks that have delayed FEMA aid for Hurricane Helene. Additionally, a state audit has found delivery gaps in the ABC system, which generates over $1.4 billion in revenue annually, despite meeting cost accuracy and safety performance indicators. The audit recommends improvements to the system, including developing contingency plans and establishing improved fleet maintenance schedules. [... more]

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. This statement of trusting belief will mean a lot more after understanding the intimacy of the relationship between a shepherd and his sheep. Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, cares for his sheep, providing them with green pastures, quiet waters, and protection from anxiety, hunger, and thirst. [... more]

Dr. Gary Chapman discusses the importance of understanding and expressing love in different languages, particularly in relationships and the workplace. He shares practical advice on how to identify and speak your partner's love language, and how to use the concept to build stronger relationships and improve communication. [... more]

The book of Deuteronomy is a single sermon by Moses, aiming to help believers understand how the Lord leads His people. It's a book about the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua, pointing to the critical nature of leadership and ultimately to Christ as the King and greater Joshua. The book is full of spiritual help and is full of Jesus. [... more]

Christian financial advisors equipped with biblical wisdom and professional credibility help clients align their values with financial decisions and investments. They provide guidance on faith-based financial planning, retirement planning, and navigating complex financial situations, including Social Security benefits and inheritance tax. [... more]

Former U.S. Senator Ben Sasse shares his experience with a terminal cancer diagnosis and how it has shaped his faith, emphasizing the importance of living intentionally and prioritizing relationships with God and family. He discusses the concept of suffering as a means of spiritual growth and the need to stay faithful in the face of adversity. [... more]

Rapid spending on autism therapy in North Carolina's Medicaid program is projected to exceed a billion dollars within the next two years, prompting state lawmakers to raise alarms and press health officials to explain these rapidly rising costs. Meanwhile, a legal challenge in North Carolina is testing the limits of body camera footage access, and a ballot selfie ban is being appealed to the Fourth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. [... more]

Jesus' high priestly prayer reveals the devil's identity and strategies, described in the Bible as the devil, Satan, and the evil one, who seeks to discredit God's word and destroy his works, employing tactics of deception, intimidation, and disguise to lead humanity away from God. [... more]

Former Senator Ben Sass shares his poignant thoughts on life, death, and eternity as he faces a terminal diagnosis of stage four pancreatic cancer. He discusses how his faith in Christ has given him peace and perspective, and how he's learning to trust God's plan despite the difficulties he's facing. He also talks about the importance of ordering one's loves correctly, and how Christians can respond to the challenges of social media and the culture around them with the fruit of the Spirit. [... more]

The ongoing situation with Iran and its use of intermediate-range ballistic missiles has sparked a debate about the country's nuclear capabilities and the potential for conflict in the Middle East. Meanwhile, concerns about voter fraud and the need for voter ID requirements have been raised, with some arguing that it is a necessary measure to protect the integrity of elections. Additionally, the topic of global warming and the potential for geoengineering to mitigate its effects has been discussed, with some experts warning about the risks of chemtrails and other forms of solar geoengineering. In the field of technology, quantum computing has made significant advancements, with IBM's research director, Jake Mpata, discussing the potential for fault-tolerant quantum computers. Furthermore, the importance of maritime strength has been emphasized, with President Trump taking steps to improve America's maritime might and counter China's influence in the region. Finally, the American economy has been a focus, with discussions about the impact of high-interest debt and the need for financial reform. [... more]

Navigating financial decisions in blended families requires intentional effort and a clear plan. Couples can use a Togetherness Agreement to promote peace and unity in their marriage by addressing emotionally charged issues and creating a roadmap for their financial future. This agreement can provide clarity on financial decisions, including how to manage debt, investments, and assets, and can help couples make decisions that align with their values and faith. [... more]