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]

Marriage is a gift from God, and it's meant to be a source of joy and connection. However, many couples struggle with intimacy and communication, leading to frustration and resentment. Dave and Ashley Willis share their insights and experiences in their book 'Do Marriage Better: Seven Simple Shifts for a Deeper Connection.' They discuss the importance of understanding each other's needs and desires, and how to navigate the different seasons of marriage, including the 'beach season' of honeymoon-like intimacy, the 'busy season' of practicality, the 'baby season' of exhaustion and distraction, and the 'broken season' of vulnerability and healing. By applying the seven simple shifts outlined in their book, couples can experience a deeper connection and a more fulfilling marriage. [... more]

A team from the Salvation Army's Southern Staff Band reflects on their 10-day trip to South Africa, where they led worship services and toured facilities. They share moments that humbled them, including the dedication of the local people and the contrast between their own experiences and those of the South Africans, who showed remarkable hospitality and humility despite facing significant challenges. [... more]

The NFL owners' meeting discussed minor rules changes, including officiating rules and the ability for the New York office to eject players without a flag on the field. The league also voted to allow the kicking team to declare an onside kick at any time during the game. Meanwhile, the Raiders and Ravens are working towards a trade involving Max Crosby, and the Eagles are considering trading AJ Brown due to relationship issues with quarterback Jalen Hurts. [... more]

Couples can make a 20% improvement in their marital relationship by implementing seven simple shifts, including having curiosity and compassion when communicating, being mindful of tone, and prioritizing their marriage over other aspects of their lives. [... 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]

Deborah Paget shares her insights on how to tame your tongue and improve relationships by being more positive, encouraging, and self-aware, drawing from her book '30 Days to Taming Your Tongue' and biblical principles. [... more]

Elizabeth Warren's claims of Native American heritage are disputed, while Mark Wayne Mullen, a member of the Cherokee Nation, is criticized by the left for his skin color. Meanwhile, a jury finds Meta and YouTube negligent in a social media addiction trial, and the government shutdown continues as Republicans block a bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security. [... more]

Iran's missiles can reach Paris and London, China's assistance to Iran's missile program, Tucker Carlson's comments on China's imperialism, Stephen Yates' analysis of China's strategy, Taiwan's concerns about China's new law, Cuba's poverty tourism, Greta Thunberg's involvement in poverty tourism, socialism's flaws and contradictions. [... 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]

Greg Kochol discusses the importance of understanding relativism and objectivism in moral truth, and how to effectively communicate the Christian perspective on issues like abortion and gender identity. He emphasizes the need for Christians to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to engage in gracious and loving conversations with those who hold different views. [... more]

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian, was deeply moved by his experience at an African-American church in New York, where he witnessed vibrant, full-throated Christian faith. This encounter changed him, and he began to speak out against Nazism, advocating for a true leader who is submitted to a higher authority. Bonhoeffer's faith led him to participate in the conspiracy against Adolf Hitler and ultimately to his martyrdom. His story is a testament to the power of faith and conscience in the face of overwhelming evil. [... more]

A group of musicians from the Salvation Army's Southern Staff Band share their life-changing experience on a 10-day tour of South Africa, where they were part of an evangelical musical ministry, and how their faith was strengthened through the trip. [... more]

Greg Kochl discusses the importance of effective evangelism and apologetics, emphasizing the need for Christians to be prepared and equipped to share their faith in a gracious and respectful manner. He introduces the concept of 'gardening' as a metaphor for the process of sowing seeds of truth and trust, rather than trying to 'harvest' immediate conversions. Kochl also shares practical examples of how to use questions to engage with others and create opportunities for spiritual growth, while navigating the challenges of a hostile culture and the influence of deception and lies. [... more]

Melanie Shankle shares her personal experiences with generational trauma, mean girls, and finding identity in Christ. She discusses the importance of unconditional love, setting boundaries, and advocating for oneself in difficult relationships. Melanie's book, Here Be Dragons, explores these topics and offers guidance for parents and individuals seeking to navigate complex relationships and find their true identity in Christ. [... more]

The fate of the Republic hangs in the balance as Senate Republicans refuse to pass the Save America Act, a bill aimed at securing elections and preventing voter fraud. Meanwhile, tensions escalate in the Middle East as the US engages in a war with Iran, and domestic terrorism threatens the safety of Americans. In the US, airport delays and government shutdowns cause chaos, while a suspicious device is found near Gracie Mansion in New York City, prompting evacuations and raising concerns about terrorism. Additionally, a new study reveals an overwhelming ideological bias among faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, highlighting the need for a more balanced education system. [... more]

Melanie Schenkel shares her personal story of healing from generational trauma and protecting her daughter from the same toxic patterns she experienced as a child. She discusses her book, Here Be Dragons, and how it explores the complexities of motherhood, mean girls, and the impact of bipolar disorder on family relationships. As a Christian, Melanie emphasizes the importance of faith in Christ and the process of healing from childhood wounds. [... more]

Chuck Swindahl explores the concept of leadership and followership in Christianity, highlighting the importance of suffering, gratitude, and contentment in developing a strong faith. He draws from Paul's letter to the Thessalonians to illustrate the flip side of leadership, where followers play a crucial role in shaping the church's progress. Swindahl emphasizes the need for joy and hope amidst difficulties, encouraging listeners to cultivate a positive attitude and affirm God's people. [... more]

Chuck Swindahl explains that great followership is the flip side of leadership, citing 1 Thessalonians as an example of how a church can thrive when its members actively contribute to the success of their leaders by embracing the truth of God's Word without reservation. [... more]

New parents can benefit from a financial checklist to ensure they're prepared for the added expenses of raising a child. This includes updating health insurance, life insurance, budgeting, creating or updating a will, building an emergency fund, updating taxes, and considering education savings. A financial advisor can help individuals navigate these changes and make informed decisions about their finances. [... more]

Jason and Tori Benham share their personal struggles with anxiety and how they found hope and healing through their faith. They discuss the importance of recognizing and renouncing anxiety, and replacing it with truth and worship. They also share practical tools and strategies for overcoming anxiety and finding peace in God's presence. [... more]

Chuck Swindahl points to the Apostle Paul's letter to the Thessalonians as a biblical model for churches that truly matter, where real people with real struggles find genuine healing through faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope. [... more]

Jason and Tori Benham share their personal struggles with anxiety and how they found hope and healing through their faith and relationship with God. They discuss the difference between fear and anxiety, the importance of trusting in God's power and presence, and the role of faith in overcoming anxiety and finding peace. [... more]

The Apostle Paul's letter to the Thessalonians is a heart-to-heart letter from a pastor to a struggling young church, offering guidance on how to foster grace, hope, and love. Paul's letter emphasizes the importance of living a lifestyle of grace flooded with peace, and how this can be achieved through a true and authentic walk with God. [... more]

Each human being has been separately planned by God before conception, with their entire development, including all days, written in God's Book long ago. The Bible and science show that a growing child in the womb is a true human being, distinctively human from the moment of conception. Those saved and written in the book of life are predestined to be conformed to the image of God's Son in the ages to come. [... more]

Josh and Joe discuss various hypothetical legal scenarios, including estate planning, power of attorney, fiduciary duty, landlord-tenant law, partition of property, operating agreements, LLCs, step-parent estates, and estate administration, providing general guidance and insights on how to navigate these complex issues. [... more]

Pastor Andrew Hopper shares his journey of adopting a child with special needs and how it has deepened his family's understanding of the gospel and their role in the church. He discusses the challenges of adoption and the importance of the church coming alongside families in this process. [... more]

Discovering God's joy and presence in the midst of life's challenges, Asharita Chuchu shares her personal journey of healing and growth, and offers practical rhythms for experiencing God's delight and restoration. [... 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 historic boycott of the State of the Union address is expected, with dozens of Democrats planning to skip the event or hold alternative gatherings. President Trump is set to deliver the address, and his team is known for putting on a memorable performance. The boycott has sparked debate about the role of Congress and the president, with some arguing that it's a political stunt and others seeing it as a necessary act of resistance. [... more]

Raising sons to be confident, tender, and emotionally durable requires intentional parenting from mothers. Molly DeFranc discusses eight essential attributes that sons need to develop before turning 10, including bravery, tenderness, and creativity, and how mothers can instill these qualities in their children through relationship, encouragement, and guidance. [... more]

A new generation of investors is reshaping the investment landscape with their preferences for cryptocurrency, artificial intelligence, and ETFs. However, this shift also raises concerns about the motives behind their investments and the potential risks of getting-rich-quick stock investment ideas. Biblical wisdom can guide investors in making informed decisions and avoiding the pitfalls of speculation. [... more]

Raising sons to be confident, capable, and compassionate individuals requires intentional mothering. By focusing on belonging, relationship, authority, and fun, mothers can provide their sons with the tools they need to thrive in life. Molly DeFranc's book, Mothering Boys, offers practical advice and biblical guidance for mothers to help their sons develop a strong sense of identity, build meaningful relationships, and navigate the challenges of growing up. [... more]

Gary Thomas discusses the importance of commitment and emotional connection in marriage, warning against the gradual steps that can lead to an affair. He emphasizes the need to prioritize one's relationship with God and to take action to strengthen one's marriage, rather than seeking an affair as a way to escape or find intimacy. [... more]

The iconic cartoon Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? debuted in 1969, featuring a teenage rock band and their talking dog Scooby-Doo, as they solve mysteries in their van, the Mystery Machine. The show's creators, William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, drew inspiration from the success of The Archie Show and the need for new programming that would appeal to children and parents alike. The series became a rating smash hit, with up to 65% of the Saturday morning audience tuning in, and its popularity has endured to this day, with numerous spin-offs, movies, and merchandising. [... more]

Protecting your marriage from an affair requires recognizing the small steps that can lead to infidelity, such as emotional connections and unfulfilled desires. Christians must prioritize spiritual intimacy and communication, and be committed to their spouse as Christ is committed to the church. [... more]

Dr. Gary Chapman and Dr. Les and Leslie Parrott discuss the importance of understanding and speaking your spouse's love language, and how it can transform your marriage. They share practical tools and insights on how to personalize love and fill your spouse's love tank, and how to overcome family of origin issues and other challenges in your relationship. [... more]

Christian banking institutions like Christian Community Credit Union offer faith-based financial services that align with biblical values. Financial stewardship and generosity are key themes in managing one's finances, and giving to charitable causes can be done in a way that is sustainable and responsible. Effective financial planning and retirement savings strategies can also help individuals achieve their financial goals while living out their faith. [... more]

Marriage is about learning to love your spouse in the way they understand love, not just romance or routine. Dr. Gary Chapman and Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott discuss the importance of recognizing and speaking your spouse's love language, including words of affirmation, quality time, gifts, acts of service, and physical touch, and the various dialects within each language. [... more]

Understanding what your spouse values is key to avoiding money squabbles in marriage. Shanti Feldhan joins Rob West to discuss her book, Thriving in Love and Money, which explores the importance of valuing what your spouse values when it comes to money. They also discuss the role of financial advisors in helping couples navigate their finances and make informed investment decisions. [... more]