Families can create a realistic plan before the holiday season by deciding what they can afford, setting a total budget, and using cash or debit cards to track spending. Giving meaningful gifts, staying within healthy limits, and focusing on shared experiences can also help. For families dealing with debt, giving within their means and scaling back can help celebrate Christmas without adding to the burden. [... more]

The birth of Jesus is a pivotal event in human history, marking the entrance of our Savior to the world. God's gift of forgiveness is a message of hope, not hate, and is meant to be shared with all people, regardless of their background or faith. The gospel is a call to acknowledge and respond to God's indescribable gift, and to share it with others as a way to bring light into a world shadowed by sin and despair. [... more]

A conversation about the intersection of technology and faith, exploring the potential benefits and unintended consequences of AI and other technologies on human relationships, education, and personal growth. [... more]

Paul's letter to the Philippians emphasizes the concept of saints as separated ones unto God, emphasizing that every Christian has been set apart by faith in Christ. The letter highlights the importance of understanding and experiencing the extravagant grace of God, which is available to all believers regardless of their circumstances. [... more]

We were once aliens from God's covenants, without hope and without God in the world, but through Christ's death and resurrection, we are now reconciled and saved by His life. This reconciliation ensures our adoption and makes us a holy priesthood, shewing forth the praise of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. [... more]

A Florida man's bizarre behavior has gone viral after he was kicked out of a Dollar Tree for demanding his candles be triple-bagged. Meanwhile, the IOC has banned transgender women from competing in female Olympic events, sparking debate over the issue. Additionally, a study has found that the number of students identifying as transgender has halved in two years, leading to questions about the decline of the trans movement. Other topics include skin health, identity theft, and alien sightings. [... more]

Pastor Greg Laurie explains how the devil uses four waves of attack to undermine believers, including questioning the Word of God, denying the Word of God, substituting his own life, and introducing the assumption that God's word is subject to our judgment. He also discusses how to resist temptation and fight back with the Word of God, using examples from the Bible and his own life. [... more]

Asbestos, once touted as the miracle mineral, has a surprisingly long history with humanity, dating back at least 4,000 years. It was used in various forms, from insulation to clothing, but its dangers were initially overlooked. As the industrial age progressed, asbestos became a staple in construction, but its health risks became increasingly apparent, leading to a ban on its use in the US and other countries. Today, an estimated quarter million people die each year from complications due to asbestos exposure, mostly from cancers like mesothelioma. [... more]

Dr. Tony Evans talks about the importance of putting on spiritual glasses to see the supernatural and experience God's power in our lives. He explains that many Christians are living with restricted eyesight, seeing only the natural world, and not the spiritual realm. Dr. Evans encourages listeners to seek God's supernatural power, which is located in heavenly places, and to prioritize looking into the spiritual first. He also emphasizes the importance of recognizing the Lordship of Jesus Christ and being seated with him in heavenly places to experience God's power and influence in our lives. [... more]

God's will for your life is to not worry at all, and He wants that for you. The things that you worry about capture your attention and obscure your ability to see what God wants you to see. God's power and grace can change your vision and turn your sights towards something else, allowing you to see with His eyes and experience His peace that passes understanding. [... more]

Pastor Greg Laurie emphasizes the importance of wholeheartedly following God to achieve spiritual longevity and finish well in the Christian life. He shares the story of Caleb, who remained strong and faithful despite challenges and setbacks, and highlights key principles for living a life of faith, including taking God at His word, fighting to the end, and not following the crowd. [... more]

The biblical concept of blindness and hardened hearts is explored, citing examples from Romans 11 and the story of Pharaoh in Exodus, highlighting how unbelief can lead to spiritual blindness and the importance of seeking spiritual sight through faith in Jesus. [... more]

Jesus teaches his disciples that his suffering and death were not unfortunate circumstances, but rather the fulfillment of prophecy and the plan of redemption. A blind beggar's faith and awareness of his need lead him to Jesus, who heals him and shows that faith is the means by which we receive the cure, not the cause of it. [... more]

Dr. Abadan Shah discusses the concept of Christ time, where believers are connected to God and can see the Old Testament and future events in a new light. He explores the idea of faith as seeing things that are not seen and how it relates to the spiritual reality of believers. The conversation also touches on the relationship between faith and sight, and how believers can experience God's presence and guidance in their lives. [... more]

Believers must run the Christian race with endurance and boldness, not complacency, and have a strong theology to understand their suffering. Fixing their eyes on the promises of God and his character can bring joy in suffering, and preaching the gospel to themselves is the answer to every doubt and fear. [... more]

Thomas Weller, known as the San Diego Highwayman, has spent 51 years helping over 10,000 stranded motorists on the side of the road. His selfless acts have earned him the title of 'angel' and inspired countless people to pay it forward. From a chance encounter in a snowbank to a lifetime of helping others, Thomas's story is a testament to the power of kindness and generosity. [... more]

Ralph Cox shares his emotional story of being cut from the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team, and how it led to a new perspective on life. Meanwhile, awareness about human trafficking and Type 1 diabetes is raised, and the importance of staying connected with others is emphasized. [... more]

Dr. Tony Evans discusses how God uses our experiences, passions, and giftedness to direct us toward our destiny. He explains that our good, bad, and bitter experiences are not just random events, but are instead part of God's plan to shape us into the person He wants us to be. Dr. Evans encourages listeners to reflect on their experiences, passions, and giftedness, and to ask God how He wants to use them to fulfill His purpose for their lives. [... more]

Two disciples, disillusioned and hopeless after Jesus' crucifixion, are met by Jesus on the road to Emmaus, who gently and patiently restores their faith through the scriptures, revealing himself as the Messiah, the suffering servant, and the coming king, ultimately opening their eyes and hearts to the truth. [... more]

Ray Caldwell, a journeyman pitcher, defies belief when he's struck by lightning during a game in 1919, yet still manages to complete a complete game victory. This bizarre event in Major League Baseball history has a lasting impact on the sport, including the eventual banning of the spitball. [... more]

Dr. Tony Evans explains that spiritual sight is not obtained through external actions, but rather through the condition of the heart. He emphasizes the importance of purity of heart, warning against double-mindedness and the dangers of being worldly. Dr. Evans encourages listeners to seek God's presence and to let Him work in their lives, promising that those who are pure of heart will see God. [... more]

God's holiness raises a couple questions, and one is how can sinful people have a relationship with God. The answer is Jesus made it possible through his death on the cross. When we trust in Christ, we are legally declared righteous, and the penalty for sin is forgiven. However, we still struggle with sin, and the process of becoming holy is a journey. It starts with a commitment to holiness and involves surrendering to God, being in His Word, and living in community. God causes us to be transformed progressively, but it requires effort and a willingness to change. The ultimate goal is to be holy, glorified, and transformed once and for all when we meet Christ. [... more]

The concept of God's holiness is explored through biblical passages, revealing His majesty, moral purity, and otherness. This understanding is contrasted with humanity's tendency to reduce God to a more relatable figure, and the importance of living a holy life is emphasized as a means of reflecting God's character and bringing health to individuals and relationships. [... more]

Pastor Greg Laurie explores the story of Esther, highlighting the importance of inner beauty and godliness, while also discussing the role of Providence in our lives. He emphasizes the need to balance outer and inner beauty, and encourages listeners to seek God's purpose and glory in their lives. [... more]

Ministry abuses occur when leaders forget God, personalize the ministry, or lose sight of the people they serve. True worship is like a covering, a spiritual protection against evil, and one of the greatest gifts we can give our children is to teach them how to worship God. Leaders should be at the bottom of the corporate pyramid, and the church should be at the top, with a focus on serving others rather than themselves. [... more]

Pastor Jack Hibbs continues his series on First Samuel, exploring the theme of worship as an act of war in the spiritual realm. He discusses the importance of trusting God's plan and the consequences of spiritual leaders losing sight of God, leading to corruption and empty worship. [... more]

The heroic age of polar exploration gave way to the mechanical age, where aircraft and motor cars changed the nature and method of exploration. Richard Byrd's flight to the North Pole in 1926 marked a significant achievement, but controversy surrounds the accuracy of his calculations. The story of Byrd's journey and the competition between airships and aeroplanes is a fascinating chapter in the history of aviation. [... more]

The story of Leroy Satchel Paige, a baseball legend who played in the Negro Leagues, is a testament to the triumph of African-American athletes over racial segregation in America. With a career spanning over 2,600 games and a fastball clocked at 105 miles per hour, Paige's contributions to baseball and society are being remembered at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, Missouri. [... more]

Jesus teaches that true happiness and fulfillment come from seeking His kingdom and righteousness, rather than being preoccupied with material things. He warns that materialism can lead to anxiety, worry, and a divided mind, and encourages believers to focus on relationships, family, and serving God, rather than accumulating wealth and possessions. [... more]

Chip Ingram discusses the root cause of misplaced priorities, which is materialism, a condition of the heart where people trust in outward props like money and possessions to achieve peace, happiness, and satisfaction. He explains that materialism has nothing to do with what you have, but rather with your heart's desire and trust. Jesus teaches that you can't serve both God and money, and that the pursuit of material things can thwart spiritual development. [... more]

The Holy Spirit is a companion who helps believers experience the presence and power of God, leading to spiritual transformation, growth, and a deeper faith in Jesus Christ. Through the Spirit's guidance, believers can overcome sin, receive wisdom, and live a life that honors God. [... more]

Stephen, a godly deacon, stood for his faith in the face of persecution, preaching the gospel and demonstrating courage, character, and commitment to Christ. His story shows how God is present in pain and hardship, and how the gospel can bring hope and salvation to those who suffer. [... more]

The hymn When I Survey the Wondrous Cross highlights the sufferings of Christ on the cross for our behalf, the love that led him there, and its bountiful gift to believers. The author, Isaac Watts, emphasizes the vastness of creation and the creator's love, demanding a complete offering of one's soul, life, and all in response. [... more]

John MacArthur, a renowned pastor and theologian, dedicated his 56-year ministry to proclaiming the gospel and upholding biblical truth. His commitment to expository preaching, love for Jesus Christ, and personal graciousness made him a respected leader in conservative evangelicalism. As a man of God, he remained humble and kind, even in his later years, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence Christians around the world. [... more]

The discussion revolves around the current state of NFL quarterbacks, with only four elite ones in the league. Meanwhile, the Home Run Derby is underway, with Cal Raleigh as the primary draw. In other sports news, Summer League is providing valuable insights into young players' development, and the upcoming Golf Major at Royal Portrush is generating excitement, with Rory McElroy and Scotty Scheffler being top contenders. [... more]

Teresa Ingram shares her powerful testimony of how she came to know Jesus, despite facing a difficult childhood and a painful divorce. She credits her friends and the body of Christ for helping her grow spiritually, and emphasizes the importance of prayer, intimacy with Jesus, and God's word in her life. Through her story, Teresa illustrates how God's goodness can be experienced even in the midst of trials and challenges. [... more]

North Carolina state lawmakers are struggling to pass a new budget, with disagreements over spending priorities and tax cuts. Meanwhile, the Democratic National Committee is focusing on the state in the wake of U.S. Senator Tom Tillis' decision not to run for reelection. The party is eyeing a potential Senate seat, with former Governor Roy Cooper being considered as a candidate. In other news, Governor Josh Stein has vetoed a regulatory reform bill known as the Rains Act, which aimed to impose new checks on unelected regulatory bodies. The bill's supporters are urging the General Assembly to override the veto. Additionally, the state has allocated over $700 million for Hurricane Helene relief, and the DMV has announced that it will now accept walk-ins for all services at 82 of its offices across the state. [... more]

To have spiritual longevity, one must wholeheartedly follow the Lord, not the crowd, and take God at his word. Caleb's story in Joshua 14 serves as a model for finishing well, as he remained strong in his faith despite the challenges he faced. The importance of faith, God's promise, and the end times are also discussed, with a focus on the rapture and apostasy. [... more]

The story of Esther and the connection to God's plan for redemption is revealed through the concept of 'hidden in plain sight.' This idea is explored through various biblical accounts and personal testimonies, highlighting the importance of mourning and comforting others with the comfort we have received. [... more]

God's kindness leads us to repentance, and our financial lives are no exception. We must bring our financial sins before the Lord in repentance, and he is faithful to forgive and ready to refresh our hearts with his grace. As stewards of God's resources, we must remember that everything belongs to God, and we are not owners but stewards of what he has entrusted to us. [... more]