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]

When encountering someone on the street who is homeless, it's essential to consider the biblical foundation of caring for the poor and the importance of showing love and compassion without enabling sinful behavior. Dr. David W. Jones, a senior professor of Christian ethics, discusses the ethics of giving to homeless people and how to show compassion without causing harm, highlighting the need to consider the root causes of poverty and the importance of long-term involvement in addressing it. [... more]

Sergeant Barry Brown shares his journey to Christianity and his work with the Salvation Army's correctional ministries, highlighting the importance of showing up and being present with those incarcerated and their families, and providing second chances for those who have been released. [... more]

Dr. Amy Sherman joins the show to discuss vocational stewardship, the idea that our work is a means of seeking the common good and participating in God's redemptive mission in the world. She explains how this concept is not just about character and integrity, but also about the actual work itself and how it can reflect God's heart for justice, beauty, and restoration. [... more]

Babylon, the cradle of civilization, has long been a symbol of defiance against God, and its final fall is predicted in the Bible. The city's history is marked by repeated attempts to rebuild and reclaim its former glory, but each effort ends in failure. According to prophecy, Babylon will once again rise to power, but this time it will be a one-world government and religion that will ultimately be defeated by God. The fall of Babylon is described in Revelation as a catastrophic event that will bring about the end of the world as we know it. [... more]

Seeking wise counsel is a key part of faithful stewardship, and it's essential to recognize that God never intended for us to walk through life's biggest decisions alone. Biblical wisdom includes discernment, humility, and the willingness to receive insight from others, and it's crucial to remind ourselves that these voices keep us from drifting into the ditches of greed, fear, impulsiveness, or self-reliance. When making financial decisions, we can look for voices that justify our desires, reinforce our fears, or confirm what we've already decided, but wise counsel doesn't merely validate us, it helps us see what we cannot see on our own. [... more]

The Holy Spirit is a person, the third person of the Trinity, who comes to live within the hearts of Christians, providing strength, guidance, and truth. He is not an it, but a he, who has all the marks of personality and is God Himself. The Holy Spirit's purpose is to promote Jesus Christ, provide strength for believers, and point them to the truth. He is the source of God's power and presence in our lives, and His presence is essential for living boldly and faithfully in a hostile world. [... more]

God's providence is at work in the life of Esther, a young woman living in the king's palace. Despite her wealth and influence, Esther must decide whether to take a risk and use her position to save her people from genocide. Dr. Tony Evans teaches that God's sovereignty is not dependent on human action, but rather He works behind the scenes to bring about His purposes. [... more]

The practice of compassion and caring for orphans and widows has been a unique activity of believers for centuries, demonstrating the gospel in a tangible way. The church's value of human life is rooted in God's creation and fatherly heart, leading to acts of kindness and generosity that imitate God's love. [... more]

Parents can create lasting memories with their kids without breaking the bank by exploring free summer activities, such as visiting the library, hosting a backyard camp out, and organizing a neighborhood game day. Meanwhile, individuals approaching retirement age can navigate complex financial decisions, including Medicare and Social Security, to ensure a secure financial future. Additionally, property owners can consider forming an LLC to protect their assets and simplify tax obligations, while also exploring ways to avoid probate when passing on their estate. [... more]

James emphasizes the importance of moving from being a mere hearer of the Word to a doer, demonstrating faith through works, and growing in maturity as a Christian. He warns against the danger of being a forgetful hearer, and encourages believers to look intently into the perfect law of liberty, abiding by it and living it out with creativity and excellence, reflecting the character of Christ and being changed into His likeness. [... more]

Mourning with those who mourn is a crucial aspect of Christian ministry, requiring compassion, empathy, and understanding. Churches often struggle to provide adequate support, leading to feelings of abandonment and hurt. However, by acknowledging their mistakes and seeking forgiveness, churches can work towards healing and restoration. It's essential to approach those who are grieving with humility, love, and a willingness to listen, rather than trying to fix everything or rush the healing process. [... more]

Iran's economy has weakened, while China's economic momentum has slowed, and the US-Mexico border wall construction continues to be a contentious issue. Meanwhile, terrorism and Islam-related incidents are on the rise, and identity theft is a growing concern. In other news, a Florida man was arrested for various bizarre incidents, including stealing a dog and running into a house with a car. [... more]

Crystal Payne shares budget-friendly tips for a great family vacation, including planning ahead, taking advantage of free activities, and being strategic about meals. She also discusses the importance of financial planning for retirement, including considering Social Security and investment options, and the benefits of converting traditional IRA funds to a Roth IRA. [... more]

Believers are called to be leaders, and leadership is not just for pastors or church leaders, but for anyone in a position of influence. Dr. Abadan Shah discusses the importance of leadership and how to develop it, using the book of Nehemiah as a guide. He emphasizes the need to lead people towards Christ and to consider the impact of one's actions on others. [... more]

A desperate leper, considered broken and untouchable, encounters Jesus and asks to be cleansed from the inside out, demonstrating an unbelievable statement of faith. Jesus heals the leper, restoring him physically and spiritually, and commands him to tell no one, but the word spreads, and great crowds gather to hear him and be healed of their infirmities. [... more]

As a caregiver, Peter Rosenberger shares his personal struggles with health issues and burnout, highlighting the importance of faith and trust in overcoming challenges. He emphasizes the need for caregivers to prioritize their own well-being and find hope in their journey, drawing from his own experiences and biblical principles. [... more]

The complexities of American history and the ongoing struggle for reconciliation and understanding are explored in this discussion, highlighting the country's imperfections and resilience. [... more]

The pursuit of happiness is a universal quest, but true fulfillment can only be found in a relationship with God. Dr. David Jeremiah explores Psalm 1, highlighting the contrast between the righteous and the ungodly, and revealing the path to happiness through a deepening faith in God's Word. [... more]

Mark Walter shares the story of his father, Cy Walter, a renowned piano accompanist and player in New York City during the Great American Song Book era. Cy's music legacy is revealed through his sheet music and unpublished scores, showcasing his talent and contributions to American music. [... more]

Christians, especially Christian leaders, are being carefully watched by an audience that includes angels, as they navigate their faith and run the race set before them, with the ultimate goal of revealing the manifold wisdom of God. [... 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]

The Neon Museum in Las Vegas showcases the city's iconic signage, telling the story of its history and evolution. From the 1930s to the present day, the museum features over 850 signs, including the famous Moulin Rouge sign, which played a significant role in Las Vegas' history as a hub for African American performers. Meanwhile, a new treatment for eczema, EBGLIS, has shown promise in providing relief for those suffering from the condition. [... more]

Investing can become an act of worship and a tool for human flourishing when approached with biblical wisdom. Scripture calls us to use what we have to serve others and reflect God's purposes. Faithful investing starts with surrender, inviting God into our investment decisions and asking for wisdom and discernment. It's about directing resources into productive work that serves others, advancing the goodness of God's world, and promoting dignity, justice, and opportunity. [... more]

Mordecai and Esther face a life-or-death decision as they navigate a treacherous plot against the Jewish people. In the midst of uncertainty, they must choose to trust in God's sovereignty and take a stand for what is right, even if it means risking their own lives. This story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith and the providence of God in our lives. [... more]

Understanding the true nature of sin and the power of grace is crucial for living a holy life. The Bible teaches that we have died to sin in Christ and are now under the reign of grace. This means we don't have to sin, but rather, we are empowered to live a life of obedience to God. The key to this is remembering what happened to us in Christ, who we are as believers, and where we belong in the kingdom of God. [... 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]

God's perspective on work as a gift and a way to image Him, making the world more useful for human beings' benefit and enjoyment, and finding eternal purpose in daily work. [... more]

Paul's argument in Galatians emphasizes that the gospel of grace in Jesus Christ is divine, transforming lives at the level of heart and desire, and that obedience to Christ should be out of love and delight in Him, not duty to a moral code. [... more]

God's power is beyond human comprehension, demonstrated through Jesus Christ's resurrection and ascension to heavenly places, where He sits at the right hand of God, giving us authority over all powers and principalities. This power is available to us, and we can experience it by having our spiritual understanding enlightened and knowing our inheritance in Christ. [... more]

A remarkable story from American history tells of a group of prisoners at Andersonville, Georgia, who prayed for water during a severe drought. Their prayers were answered when a spring burst forth, providing a lifesaving source of water. [... more]

In rural Malawi, many children wake up each day unsure if they'll eat and relying on water that can make them sick. Cross International is working to break the cycle of poverty, provide clean water, and introduce families to the love of Jesus. Their long-term approach involves partnering with local ministries to equip communities with vital physical resources and spiritual support. [... more]

The New Testament teaches that every legitimate kind of work or social function is a sacred calling from God, and that believers should approach their work with humility, reliability, and complicity, as if serving Jesus Christ, to fulfill their divine purposes and reflect God's glory. [... more]

When faced with shaky moments in life, Habakkuk's story in Habakkuk 3:19 serves as a powerful reminder of God's strength and ability to keep us from slipping. By trusting in God and holding onto His word, we can navigate life's challenges with integrity and faith, even in the face of adversity. [... more]

The story of Cornelius Jacobson, a young man from Germany who immigrated to the United States in 1884, is shared by his great-grandson John L. Jacobson. Cornelius's journey from Germany to America, aboard a steamship, is a poignant tale of hope, uncertainty, and the pursuit of a better life. [... more]

Many older adults feel financially locked in their homes, which were never designed for aging bodies. A reverse mortgage can help them move into safer, healthier homes without taking on new monthly payments. Financial experts discuss the importance of prevention and planning for housing decisions later in life, and offer guidance on budgeting, debt management, and building an emergency fund. [... more]

The story of the Bible unfolds through four gardens, representing the progression of God's redemption and restoration of his people. From the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve's rebellion led to the curse of the covenant, to the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus' obedience reversed the curse, the story of God's people is one of faithfulness, disobedience, and ultimate redemption. Through the typological garden of Israel and the redemptive garden of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, God's promise of salvation is fulfilled in the new garden of the new heavens and new earth, where fellowship between God and man, man and man, and man and creation is fully restored. [... more]

The Salvation Army's commitment to publishing biblically sound written resources is crucial in today's world where truth is often questioned. The organization's vetting process ensures that authors are grounded in their faith, and their work is accurate and trustworthy. This commitment to quality is essential for Christians seeking to deepen their understanding of God's word and live out their faith in a world filled with uncertainty. [... more]

Caregivers often lose their old life and step into uncertainty, but this can lead to purpose and deeper faithfulness. The story of Matthew, a tax collector called by Jesus, serves as a model for caregivers, who must leave behind their old life and follow Christ into the unknown. As they do, they can find hope and meaning in their role, even in the midst of challenges and losses. [... more]