Thousands of educators from across North Carolina are expected to gather at the state capitol to call for increased teacher pay and education funding, while the governor signs a $319 million Medicaid bill into law, but expresses concerns about the ongoing costs of Medicaid and the elimination of health care coverage for nearly 27,000 children and pregnant women. [... more]

When life seems chaotic, God is always in control. He works for our good, even in the midst of darkness and confusion. Through faith and trust, we can find peace and certainty in a chaotic world, knowing that God's invisible hand is always at work, guiding and caring for us. [... more]

Billy Sunday was a renowned evangelist who rose to fame in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Iowa in 1862, Sunday's life was marked by hardship and loss, but he found solace in Christianity after attending an evangelical rally. He went on to become a prominent preacher, leading numerous crusades and converting millions of people to Christianity. Sunday's influence paved the way for other notable evangelists, including Billy Graham, and his legacy continues to be felt in American history. [... more]

George Washington's life is marked by his desire to belong and be accepted by the Virginia elite. He faces economic collapse and the British refusal to recognize his status as a gentleman. Washington's experiences in the French and Indian War and his subsequent appointment as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army shape his leadership and commitment to the American cause. He repeatedly slips the British noose, choosing strategic retreat over honorable defeat, and ultimately surrenders his commission, establishing the idea of civilian control of the military. [... more]

You are a living letter bearing God's mark, carrying his peace, and extending his grace to a watching world. Your distinguishing mark is a unique gift that sets you apart, and it's essential to exercise it personally, bountifully, cheerfully, and broadly to make a meaningful impact. [... more]

In this episode Greg outlines the diverse spiritual fires that began spreading out into the world from Jerusalem after the amazing Christ-designed-and-executed outpouring of the Holy Spirit as tongues of fire fires of devotion of light of rapidly spreading faith and so forth Was this New Testament fire something new Or was it like previous fires manifest during the period of Law Was it strange fire Or was it the same fire that burned in the bush which Moses gazed upon and to which captivated with wonder he drew near Was it the same fire that was enveloped by the [... more]

Paul Blavin, a former Wall Street workaholic, shares his transformation from success to significance and real purpose. He founded the Blavin Scholars Program to support foster care youth, and his son Joseph, a Blavin scholar, is working on a novel approach for the early detection of cancer. Paul's story highlights the importance of connection, community, and support in helping foster care youth thrive and achieve their goals. [... more]

The election of 1800 led to Thomas Jefferson's presidency, marking a significant shift in the federal government's power dynamics. Jefferson's informal style and emphasis on Republican values contrasted with his predecessors, particularly John Adams, who strengthened the Federalist control over the judiciary. The Marbury v. Madison case, decided by Chief Justice John Marshall, established the doctrine of judicial review, giving the Supreme Court the power to declare acts of Congress unconstitutional, and had a lasting impact on American politics and the Constitution. [... more]

Knowing who you are as a Christian is what keeps you going, and it's relieving to know who you're not. You are a living letter of Christ, and your actions need to reflect his character. You are a representative of the king, and your life is a manifestation of Christ's presence in the world. [... more]

The passage in Deuteronomy 10:17 is the structure of the Amidah prayer, emphasizing God's power and majesty. The concept of fear of the Lord is crucial, as it is the beginning of wisdom and requires intimacy with God's power, which is beyond human understanding. [... more]

On this episode of Our American Stories Thomas Jefferson stood at the center of the American founding writing the Declaration of Independence and later serving as the third president of the United States He believed deeply in liberty and in the promise of the country but his life was marked by contradictions that continue to shape how he is remembered including the fact that he never freed his slaves despite his lofty ideals about freedom In this talk at the Library of Congress acclaimed historian and bestselling author of Thomas Jefferson The Art of Power Jon Meacham explores Jefferson as [... more]

Defining enough is a crucial step in achieving financial contentment and living a life of purpose. Scripture reframes the question of enough, emphasizing trust, stewardship, and contentment. By setting a financial finish line and prioritizing generosity, individuals can create margin for kingdom impact and live on mission. [... more]

God's presence is always with us, even when it seems absent. Pastor Greg Laurie shares stories from the Bible, including Joseph's journey from prison to palace and Esther's bravery in the face of adversity, to illustrate God's providence and care for us. He encourages listeners to turn to Jesus Christ for eternal life and forgiveness of sin. [... more]

When we come prepared to see God for who He is, we don't leave the same person we walked in. Worship is God's antidote for hypocrisy, and it has the power to transform our lives. By encountering God in corporate worship, we can experience spiritual transformation and grow deeper in Christ. [... 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]

Carlos Colon recounts his life of gang violence, murder, and prison time, but also his journey towards redemption and forgiveness through Christianity, ultimately finding a new path in life and a chance to make amends with the families he hurt. [... more]

Faith-based investors can use their ownership to influence companies for good through corporate engagement, a process of talking with company management to encourage better policies and practices on issues that align with their values. [... more]

Hypocrisy can be overcome through worship, which allows us to see God and be progressively transformed into His likeness. Corporate worship, personal worship, and practicing the presence of God are all ways to encounter and experience God, leading to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. [... more]

Understanding the non-negotiable factor of faith in Christ, Pastor Lutzer emphasizes that Jesus' sacrifice is enough for salvation, and that assurance comes from persuasion of the heart, confirmed by the Holy Spirit, and the life of God working itself out. [... 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]

Chess McCartney, known as the Goat Man, left his Iowa farm at 14 to join a circus, where he became a target for a Spanish beauty and eventually married her. After four years, he left her and traveled across America, preaching about the coming of the Lord and selling postcards featuring himself and his goats. He became a legendary figure, with many people remembering his visits and the impact he had on their lives. [... more]

A homeless man named Ted is given $100,000 and documents his spending and financial decisions, revealing the challenges of managing sudden wealth and the difficulties of overcoming personal demons and societal expectations. [... more]

Theodore Roosevelt Jr., son of the 26th President of the United States, led his troops onto Utah Beach during the D-Day invasion of France, despite needing a cane to walk, and played a crucial role in the successful establishment of the beachhead in France. [... more]

The Christian faith starts with God, continues with God, and ends with God. The ultimate purpose of God is not our happiness, but his glory. He is over all, working through all, and present in all, sustaining and pervading the church He has created. [... more]

In the face of hardship and judgment, Christian praise is not about pretending that pain doesn't exist, but about recognizing reality and anchoring oneself in God's presence, power, and pardoning nature, finding joy in the Lord as Savior and Redeemer, and trusting in His faithfulness to sustain and deliver. [... more]

The promise of the Beatitudes is that the pure in heart shall see God, face to face, and experience the beatific vision. This promise is not just about the future, but also about the present, as it encourages Christians to manifest a spirit of mercy and to be peacemakers, bringing reconciliation and true peace to bear without compromising integrity or truths. [... more]

David's poem in Psalm 139 reveals God's omniscience and presence, highlighting humanity's futile attempts to hide from God. The psalmist's words are a comfort, knowing that God is everywhere, and there is no escape from His presence. This understanding is rooted in the biblical truth that God is sovereign over all, including death and the grave, as seen in the resurrection of Christ. [... more]

A Christian perspective on the top stories of the week, including the indictment of the Southern Poverty Law Center, a Gallup poll suggesting young men are returning to religion, and a speech by Justice Clarence Thomas on the importance of a God-given understanding of human identity. Also discussed are the implications of a religious revival, the challenges of foster care, and the importance of nuclear families. [... 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]

Eric Liddell, a devout Christian and Olympic champion, dedicated his life to helping others, including serving as a missionary in China and risking his life to save others during WWII. His selfless acts and unwavering commitment to his faith make him an inspiring figure, and his story is a testament to the power of service and compassion. [... 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]

A former pastor's wife shares her journey of healing after an unexpected divorce, discussing the challenges of loneliness, the importance of gratitude, and finding hope in God's presence. She also talks about her experiences as a single mom and how she navigated the difficult process of co-parenting with her ex-husband. [... more]

The story of Samson, a biblical anti-hero, has served as a source of inspiration to those willing to risk life and limb in the struggle for social equality, but his legacy has also been associated with violence and destruction, and has been put aside by figures like Martin Luther King Jr. in favor of a more peaceful message drawn from the Exodus story. [... 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]

Parents have a crucial role in safeguarding their children from the complexities of human trafficking and exploitation. By being present, engaged, and aware of their children's online activities, parents can prevent exploitation and protect their children's innocence. The spiritual battle against evil is real, and parents must combat it by cultivating a heart condition of love, acceptance, and worth in their children. The church must step into this fight, and individuals can get involved by supporting organizations like the Invictus Project, which provides resources and education to parents and law enforcement. [... more]

The Judgment of Paris, a landmark wine tasting event, took place in 1976 where California wines were pitted against French wines, with the California wines emerging victorious, marking a significant turning point in the wine industry, as American winemakers demonstrated their quality and competitiveness, challenging the French aristocracy of winemaking. [... 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]

The Bible teaches that temptation is the enticement to think or act in a way that goes against God's will. It's a common struggle for every Christian, and it can come from within (our flesh) or from outside (the devil). To overcome temptation, we must pray for protection and deliverance, and avoid people, practices, and places that may tempt us. With God's help, we can have victory over the power of sin in our lives. [... more]

Pastor Jack Hibbs teaches about the importance of defense in spiritual life, reminding listeners to trust in God's word and protection, and to be confident in His will. He shares personal experiences and biblical verses to emphasize the need to defend one's heart and mind from harmful influences, and to rely on God's strength and guidance. [... more]