The Bible describes a war between two cities, Babylon and the New Jerusalem, with Babylon representing mankind united in opposition to God. The New Jerusalem is God's city, founded on love of God, even to the contempt of self. The Christian life requires endurance, delayed gratification, and a deep conviction that the things we can't see yet are real. The Antichrist and the false prophet use religion as a tool to control people, but God's wrath is against sin, not against love. The primary metaphor for the Antichrist and the false prophet is prostitution, representing humanity's unfaithfulness to God. Christians should live in Babylon, deeply integrated into life here, but distinct from her sins and her man-centered ways. [... more]

The Antichrist and the False Prophet are unmasked as Satan's earthly vessels, imitating Christ, and controlling commerce. Christians must be skeptical of concentrated power, realistic about suffering, and defiant in their faith, using the blood of the Lamb, the word of their testimony, and loving not their lives to the death to overcome the dragon. [... more]

Jimmy Stewart's life story combines military history and cultural history, revealing his journey from a young actor to a decorated World War II pilot. Born in Indiana, Pennsylvania, Stewart's fascination with aviation began at a young age, and he eventually became a pilot in the Army Air Corps. He flew 20 combat missions, earning numerous decorations, and later became a Brigadier General in the reserves. After the war, Stewart returned to Hollywood, starring in classics like 'It's a Wonderful Life' and 'Vertigo'. [... more]

A professor reflects on the importance of understanding the 'why' behind our actions, particularly in teaching and mentoring students. He shares a personal story of connecting with a student who was struggling with self-doubt and finding value in their work. [... more]

The book of Revelation presents a series of judgments and visions that shape our understanding of life in the present. The tribulation is an intensification of what we're already experiencing, and God's judgments are a response to the prayers of the saints. The gospel offers salvation and repentance, and Jesus' mission will be accomplished despite the world's troubles. [... more]

Randy Alcorn joins the discussion on the life-giving potential of wealth, explaining how it can be a powerful tool when surrendered to God, and how it can also be a source of temptation when it competes with our affections for Him. He shares insights on giving, generosity, and the importance of defining enough and setting a financial finish line. [... more]

Pastor JD Greer discusses the Great Commission and the Great Tribulation, referencing Revelation 7 and Daniel's 70th Week. He emphasizes the importance of faith, sacrifice, and missionary work in fulfilling God's plan for the world. [... more]

A couple's decision to file for Social Security benefits at 68 instead of 70 results in an additional $125,000 in income over two years, highlighting the importance of individualized planning and considering the impact on estate planning and taxes. [... more]

Lebanon is facing another humanitarian crisis, with innocent families caught in the middle. Camille Melke of Heart for Lebanon shares a boots-on-the-ground report and the opportunity to respond with emergency aid and the hope of the gospel. [... more]

The book of Revelation reveals a scene in heaven where God's redeemed people and all of creation are consumed in worship, giving glory to God's greatness and perfection. This scene shows that worship is where it's all headed and that it's what we're created for, as God's ultimate purpose is to give us a glimpse of his glory. The story of Jesus Christ's salvation is the key to understanding this scene, as he came to earth not as a lion, but as a lamb, to take the judgment of God in our place and give us the life we've always wanted. [... more]

The Book of Revelation describes the wrath of God as a series of judgments that will be poured out on the earth, including painful sores, oceans turned to blood, and freshwater sources turned to blood, ultimately leading to the destruction of the Antichrist's kingdom and the establishment of God's sovereign rule. [... more]

Jesus' letters to the seven churches in Revelation reveal his greatest concern: lukewarm passion for him. He mourns the loss of first love in Ephesus and warns against lukewarmness in Laodicea, where he says he wants to vomit out those who are neither hot nor cold. Lukewarm Christians are characterized by prayerlessness, minimizing sin, and only turning to God when they need something. Jesus calls out for a people who will be passionate for him, not just religious slaves who obey him to go to heaven. [... more]

A certified financial planner helps a couple, Tom and Susan, create a comprehensive financial plan to ensure a secure retirement. They discuss various aspects of the plan, including Social Security, Medicare, long-term care, estate planning, and taxes, and how these elements work together to achieve their financial goals. [... more]

Investors should consider looking beyond the U.S. markets for diversification and growth opportunities, as foreign stocks can offer broader growth potential and emerging markets are exciting due to their significant growth potential and rapidly rising standards of living. [... more]

The book of Revelation contains messages from Jesus to early churches, warning against small compromises and the danger of losing first love. Jesus commends the Ephesian church for their toil, patient endurance, and doctrinal soundness, but warns them to repent and return to their first love. The church in Smyrna is commended for their suffering and poverty, but Jesus encourages them to be faithful and not fear persecution, promising to give them the crown of life. [... more]

Retirement isn't the end of your purpose, but rather a new season to live it out. A biblical perspective on retirement emphasizes finding balance between rest and contribution, and living out one's fourth quarter of life in a way that's God-honoring and fulfilling. [... more]

The book of Revelation is a crucial book for Christians to study, as it provides a vision of Jesus' sovereignty over all of life, including suffering and tribulation. Jesus' power and majesty are unveiled, and he is shown to be in control of all things, including death and hell. The book is not meant to terrify, but to give a towering vision of the justice of God and the authority of Jesus above it all. [... more]

Preparing for solo aging involves considering long-term care, estate planning, and financial planning to ensure a smooth transition when one partner passes away. This includes setting up a power of attorney, trusts, and having a plan in place for taxes and investments. [... more]

In the midst of a spiritual battle, Pastor JD Greer emphasizes the importance of dependence on God and the need to put on the spiritual armor, including the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shoes of the gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, sword of the Spirit, and prayer, to withstand the enemy's attacks and live a victorious life in Christ. [... more]

A young mother, widowed at 29 with three small children, shares her powerful story of finding hope and faith in the midst of devastating loss, and how God brought her victory and redemption in the darkest valley. [... more]

John Hanna shares two pivotal moments in his life that pushed him towards excellence, including a childhood experience of weight discrimination and a lesson from legendary coach Bear Bryant about perseverance and overcoming limits. [... more]

Faith-driven investors are seeking ways to align their investments with their values, and new tools are making it easier than ever. Mike Schnackenberg from Eventide Asset Management discusses the rise of faith-based ETFs and how they can help investors make a positive impact through their investments, while avoiding problematic areas that go against their Christian worldview. [... more]

A fiduciary is a professional who puts their clients' interests ahead of their own, providing unbiased and trustworthy financial advice. Certified financial planners, like Hans Scheil, have a duty of loyalty and care to their clients, making full disclosure and acting in their best interest. This fiduciary responsibility is crucial in investment decisions, ensuring that clients receive accurate and transparent advice. [... more]

Emily Jensen and Laura Whiffler discuss the challenges of motherhood, the importance of gospel hope, and how to live out faithful motherhood in everyday moments. They share personal experiences and practical advice on how to navigate the struggles of parenting and marriage, and how to find community and support in the midst of loneliness. [... more]

Jesus Christ radically redefines a life of true happiness, emphasizing the importance of self-denial, peacemaking, and living a godly life. Those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake are blessed, and their reward is great in heaven. [... more]

When inheriting an IRA, it's crucial to understand the rules and options available to avoid irreversible mistakes. A non-spouse beneficiary can't roll over the money into their own IRA, while a spouse has more flexibility, including the option to roll it over into their own IRA or leave it in the deceased spouse's name. Exceeding the one rollover per year can also result in taxable consequences. Seeking wise counsel before making any decisions is essential to avoid costly mistakes. [... more]

Understanding the problem of sin and the gift of grace is crucial to truly cherishing the gospel. Paul's explanation in Ephesians 2 reveals that we are spiritually dead, followers of Satan, and children of wrath. However, God's mercy and love led to our salvation, and we are now seated with Christ in the heavenly places, equipped to live a life of good works and faith. Believing the gospel is inconvenient, but it's a burden we should gladly bear, knowing that we've been saved by grace through faith and are now God's workmanship, created for good works. [... more]

Paul prays for the Ephesians to see the certainty of their hope, their great worth to God, God's power at work in them, and the finality of Jesus' rule. He emphasizes the importance of prayer in opening their eyes to these truths, which will transform their lives and help them overcome spiritual problems. [... more]

A family's experience with a horrific car accident highlights the importance of having a long-term care insurance policy in place. The policy provided financial security and allowed the family to focus on their loved one's care, bringing them closer together. A comparison of traditional and hybrid long-term care insurance policies reveals that the hybrid policy may offer more benefits, including a death benefit and tax-free cash, making it a valuable option for families to consider. [... more]

The process of forgiveness involves carrying a burden or offense and allowing God to refine it, much like the scapegoat in Leviticus chapter 16, and ultimately trusting in Jesus' sacrifice on the cross to heal and forgive. [... more]

The concept of holding grudges and seeking vengeance is explored through the lens of Hebrew scripture, highlighting the importance of humility and love in overcoming these tendencies. [... more]

God chose us in him before the foundation of the world, not because of our potential or goodness, but because of his love and desire to redeem us. This truth gives us assurance during struggle, strength after failure, hope in trials, and confidence in disciple making, as we understand that God's glory is the center of everything and that we are chosen to bring glory to him. [... more]

Discovering true confidence comes from seeing how big and powerful God is, and getting swept up in His purposes. God doesn't deal with our insecurities by teaching us about ourselves, but by calling us to focus on who He is. By becoming confident in His purposes, we can become confident in our own lives and find the strength to overcome our insecurities and doubts. [... more]

Navigating Medicare can be a daunting task, especially with the various options and potential pitfalls. Understanding the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage is crucial, as is being aware of sign-up penalties, the Medicare tax, and the lack of coverage for long-term care. Additionally, knowing how to choose the right Medicare supplement and avoiding managed care can make a significant difference in one's healthcare experience. [... 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]

Dennis Peterson shares a story about his maternal grandmother's hands, which revealed a lot about her life and character. Her hands were hard working, expressive, and kind, despite being arthritic and worn. The story explores the connection between hard work and arthritis, and the importance of understanding the difference between a personalized savior and a revolutionary king. [... more]

Pastor J.D. Greer discusses the dangers of creating a God in our own image, where we reshape God to fit our desires and expectations, rather than accepting Him as He truly is. He explores how this can lead to a distorted view of God, spiritual corruption, and disappointment. [... more]

A man shares his mother's inspiring story of overcoming adversity and achieving success despite being a poor, biracial woman in a predominantly black community. She worked multiple jobs, raised three children on her own, and eventually became a licensed clinical social worker and earned a master's degree, embodying the American dream of advancing without arbitrary barriers. [... more]