James teaches that trials are unavoidable, unlimited, and unexpected, but can produce single-minded affection for Christ and spiritual maturity. He exhorts believers to ask God for wisdom, to persevere under trial, and to recognize their sufficiency in Christ, promising a crown of life for those who love him. [... more]

Mary Sparks, a woman of unwavering faith, navigates the complexities of infidelity, adoption, and forgiveness in her family, ultimately raising her adopted son as her own, and finding healing through her Christian walk. [... more]

Jesus teaches that true spirituality is not about external appearances, but about a deep relationship with God. He exposes the Pharisees' hypocrisy and shows that true joy and freedom come from embracing the new covenant and leaving behind old, restrictive traditions. [... more]

A desperate mother's relentless faith in Jesus leads to the healing of her demon-possessed daughter, teaching us about the power of prayer, God's sovereignty, and the importance of seeking His will in our lives. [... more]

Helping adult children grow in responsibility and independence is a delicate balance for parents, requiring wisdom and grace. The way we offer support can shape not just their circumstances, but their character. Understanding what it means to define 'enough' and making room for maturity are key to strengthening our adult children, rather than sidelining them. [... more]

Navigating financial uncertainty with biblical principles can bring clarity and peace. By prioritizing spending, building emergency savings, and minimizing debt, individuals can prepare for uncertain times and trust in the Lord. A simple financial checkup and plan can help individuals stay grounded and avoid emotional decisions. [... more]

Dr. Henry Cloud shares his personal journey of faith and how it has informed his life, counseling, and writing. He discusses the importance of boundaries in relationships and how they are a crucial part of God's design for love and relationships. Cloud also talks about his new book, To Know Him, a 90-day invitation to come to God as you are, and his latest book, Your Desired Future, which outlines the five essential steps to take you where you want to go. [... more]

Auntie Ann Byler, the founder of Auntie Anne's, shares her remarkable life story of tragedy, faith, and triumph. From her Amish upbringing to building a global pretzel empire, Ann's journey is a testament to the power of purpose, leadership, and personal growth. [... more]

In the face of adversity and hardship, Jesus' promise to his followers is a call to endurance and determination. Through biblical guidance, we learn to stand firm in our convictions and character, even when the world around us seems to be against us. With the strength of Christ within us, we can persevere through trials and tribulations, and ultimately, be saved. [... more]

Defining a financial finish line is a powerful tool for establishing a solid plan for your finances and recognizing that all of God's provision belongs to Him. By setting a maximum for your spending, you can protect yourself against lifestyle creep and keep yourself aligned with God's purposes for your finances. This concept is not just for high net worth individuals, but can be applied by anyone, regardless of their financial situation. [... more]

A devastating conflict is unfolding in Lebanon, leaving families in fear and uncertainty. Heart for Lebanon is responding with emergency aid and the hope of the gospel, providing food, shelter, and hygiene supplies to newly displaced families. The organization is committed to walking with these families for as long as they need, introducing them to the hope of Christ and the possibility of a lasting eternal peace. [... more]

Scripture calls us to anchor our hope in Christ, trusting him in both abundance and hardship, rather than measuring God's love by our circumstances. The prosperity gospel distorts biblical truth, making health and wealth a measuring stick for spiritual success. Faithful believers have walked through both abundance and hardship, and scripture shows us that faithful giving is an act of worship and thankfulness to God, not a formula to get results in our life. [... more]

The Bible teaches that God's grace is sufficient for every trial, but it may not always change our circumstances. The Apostle Paul's experience with a thorn in the flesh shows that God's purpose is not always to remove our pain, but to keep us humble and dependent on Him. True contentment and peace come from trusting in God's love and presence, not just from having our circumstances changed. [... more]

Two men, Governor Lee and Jellyroll, share remarkable faith stories of spiritual breakthroughs and pardons, transforming their lives from darkness to redemption, and inspiring others with their journeys of faith and resilience. [... more]

Shannon Bream shares her personal journey of faith and overcoming challenges, drawing from her experiences as a family caregiver and her book Nothing is Impossible with God, which features 11 heroes who demonstrate God's presence and power in their lives. Bream discusses how her faith has grown stronger through her experiences, including her husband's health struggles and her own chronic pain, and how she hopes her book will encourage and equip others to trust in God's goodness and presence, even in the darkest of times. [... 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]

When Jesus breaks our brackets, he changes our lives forever. Listeners share their personal stories of how Jesus' salvation looked different than they expected, and how it led to growth, healing, and new opportunities. As the hosts discuss the concept of bracket busting, they explore how God's word and presence can break down our barriers and build us up in ways we never thought possible. [... more]

Saving and stewardship are not just about accumulating wealth, but about living with purpose and aligning our financial habits with values that reflect the kingdom. Scripture reminds us that we are stewards, not owners, and what we have is entrusted for purposes that reach beyond us. A life without margin leaves little flexibility to serve others, support ministry, or participate in kingdom work. God designed generosity often requires readiness, and readiness requires margin. [... more]

Carrie Hahn, author of Limping Heavenward, shares her experiences with chronic and comprehensive suffering, exploring how the church can support those experiencing these kinds of feelings. She discusses the importance of genuine presence and friendship, practical help, and not being a miserable comforter. Hahn also talks about the story that only sufferers can tell, that God is worthy of worship and trust even in the midst of suffering, and how our faith can be made more evident through endurance and perseverance. [... more]

Legendary NFL quarterback Brett Favre opens up about his life, faith, and humility in a candid conversation, reflecting on his experiences and the lessons he's learned along the way. [... 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]

When facing hardship and suffering, prayer can shape how we walk through the situation, changing us rather than just changing circumstances. It's about being productive and faithful while waiting on the Lord, trusting in His plans and purposes, even when they don't make sense to us. [... more]

The book of James teaches us to count it all joy when we fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of our faith produces patience. But why do we have to suffer? The Bible doesn't give us an exact reason, but it's clear that trials are a guarantee in this world. They can help us develop our faith, character, and perseverance, or they can keep us humble and dependent on God. Whatever the reason, we can trust the heart of God, who is good and loves us so much that he gave his Son on the cross for us. [... more]

When faced with overwhelming trials, it's essential to turn inward and recognize our limitations, rather than relying on our own strength. Instead, we should turn upward, acknowledging God's power and ability to handle even the most challenging situations. By adopting an eternal perspective, we can see that our trials are but a momentary affliction, and that God's strength is made perfect in our weakness. [... more]

When facing hardship, believers often pray for relief, but is that the right approach? Peter Rosenberger explores the idea that prayer is not just about changing circumstances, but about changing us. He shares his own experiences and those of others, including his wife Gracie, who lost her legs but found a new purpose in helping others through a prosthetic limb ministry. Rosenberger encourages listeners to be productive and faithful in their prayers, trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness, even in the midst of uncertainty. [... more]

Alistair Begg explores the nature of true biblical forgiveness through the story of Joseph, reminding us that genuine faith and forgiveness come from a deep understanding of God's providence and mercy, and that we can only truly forgive others when we know ourselves to have been radically and undeservedly forgiven. [... 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]

David's experiences in war shape his character, leading to happiness. He chooses to sing to God, declaring his trust, and finds joy in the midst of conflict. God's care for him gives him perspective and happiness. Happiness is a byproduct of pursuing something else, not a direct pursuit. [... more]

After the Declaration of Independence, the American Revolution faced numerous challenges, including a divided population, lack of funds, and a formidable British army. George Washington's leadership and strategic decisions, such as his alliance with France and his victories at Trenton and Princeton, helped turn the tide of the war. Meanwhile, Thomas Paine's writings, including his influential pamphlet 'The Crisis,' inspired the colonists to persevere and fight for their freedom. [... more]

A white cloth, seemingly ordinary, holds an extraordinary story of the American Civil War, slavery, and the struggle for freedom. It was woven by an enslaved person on a plantation in South Carolina, and its history reveals the complexities of the war and the lives of those who lived through it. [... more]

Adoniram Judson, a pioneering American missionary, spent his life serving in Burma, facing numerous challenges, and ultimately achieving remarkable success in spreading Christianity. His journey, marked by periods of suffering and self-doubt, ultimately led to the translation of the Bible into Burmese and the establishment of a thriving Baptist church in the region. [... more]

A narrative from Genesis chapter 42 reveals how God works providentially through trials to draw us closer to Himself. Jacob's conversation with his sons sets the stage for their journey to Egypt, where they encounter Joseph, who holds up a mirror to their conscience by accusing them of being spies. This confrontation leads to a turning point, where the brothers acknowledge their guilt and recognize their need for God's provision, mirroring the story of Christ and our own need for redemption. [... more]

Robert Johnson, a legendary blues musician, struggled with a tumultuous life, marked by poverty, infidelity, and personal struggles. His grandmother blamed him for her daughter's and grandchild's deaths, leading to Robert's feelings of guilt and pressure. Despite this, he continued to play the guitar, eventually meeting Ike Zimmerman, who mentored him and helped him develop his skills. The myth that Robert sold his soul to the devil at the crossroads to learn how to play the guitar is disputed by his grandson, who believes that Robert's talent came from hard work and dedication, not a deal with the devil. [... more]

Living daily with the end in view is the key to motivation, while making a personal commitment to grow is the key to overcoming inertia. Cultivating stimulating relationships, choosing to become progressive risk-takers, leveraging life's hardships, and making time for solitude and silence are also essential for spiritual growth. By following these principles, individuals can break free from stagnation and experience breakthrough in their lives. [... more]

Living daily with the end in view is key to motivation, and making a personal commitment is crucial for overcoming inertia. Valuing process over event leads to progress, and cultivating stimulating relationships inspires growth. Daily discipline and habits shape us over time, and getting the end in view helps us stay motivated and focused on becoming more like Christ. [... more]

Iran is facing a severe economic crisis and widespread protests against its Islamic regime, which has been in power since the 1979 revolution. The situation is complex, with the regime's ties to terrorism and its suppression of dissent contributing to the crisis. President Trump's economic sanctions have been a significant factor, but the regime's use of violence against protesters has raised concerns. The situation has sparked debate about the role of the US and other countries in addressing the crisis, with some arguing for a more active approach to support the Iranian people and others cautioning against intervention. Meanwhile, the potential for Christianity to spread in Iran and the Middle East more broadly is a topic of interest, with some seeing it as a potential catalyst for positive change. [... more]

During the 1920s, the Goff and Wilson families suffered through severe cases of the Spanish influenza, whooping cough, and the mumps, which led to the loss of two five-week-old twins and a young mother. The family's struggles during the Great Depression and their resilience in the face of hardship are a testament to the strength of American families. [... more]

Christians are people who rejoice in the midst of difficulty, recognizing that trials are temporary, never wasteful, and always used to refine and grow genuine faith. They love and follow an invisible deity, believing in a God they cannot see, and reflecting the glory of his face in the midst of unexplainable things. [... more]

The Bible teaches that God doesn't cause evil, but He does allow free will, and even in the worst situations, He can bring good out of pain and suffering. Christians are called to honor and respect their shared heritage with the Hebrew scriptures and live out their faith by blessing others, including the people of Israel. The importance of remembering God's goodness and faithfulness in the midst of suffering is emphasized, as well as the role of parents in providing a context for growth and discipline. [... more]

The Bible teaches that pain and suffering are not punishments, but gifts from God that can produce perseverance, purity, and perspective, ultimately leading to hope and a deeper understanding of His sovereignty. [... more]