In the latest episode of the "Higher Ground with Billy Hallowell Podcast," former collegiate swimmer Riley Gaines talks about competing against biological male Lia (Will) Thomas and how she and fellow swimmers knew it was "wrong" to allow men in women's sports. Gaines reflects on the push to accept transgender ideology and the violence she faced during an appearance at San Franciso State University. "I've looked that evil in the eyes ... and I was held hostage and assaulted," she explained. Listen to the interview now.

Pastor Tim Darnell and members of the Hill Country Church gathered at the local courthouse in San Marcos, Texas, last week to pray for rain as 100% of the county struggles with drought conditions. "We can pray from faith that God has created the earth to bear the fruit in season," Darnell told CP. "We pray for rain out of the desire for our region to be blessed and fruitful that all would see the goodness of God." Read more.

Andrew D. Lester, an 84-year-old homeowner who shot a black teenager twice after he mistakenly rang his doorbell in Kansas City, Mo., has pleaded not guilty to assault in the first degree and armed criminal action. Lester's attorney, Steven Salmon, called the event "terrible" but says it was an act of self-defense because the elderly man felt reasonably threatened after finding the teenager, Ralph Yarl, on his porch late at night. Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson, however, disagrees. Read more.

Coral Ridge Ministries President Dr. Rob Pacienza details the history and meaning of Labor Day and why Christians should celebrate it. "[W]e should be thankful for the responsibility He places on our shoulders to work rather than mooch, and we should honor the Son’s own labors on the cross to save us from our sin," the pastor and founder of the Institute for Faith and Culture writes. Read more.

Rev. Mark Creech, executive director of the Christian Action League of North Carolina, discusses the growing number of "Help Wanted" signs on businesses and why the workforce is shrinking. From the need to earn meaningful work to abortion and gambling, Creech reflects on leaders' concerns but reminds readers that God is in control. Read more.

What’s Your Post-Game Prayer? Take a Knee with Coach Kennedy campaign. We’re challenging Americans nationwide to take a knee in personal private prayer on Friday, Sept. 1. Read More

During an interview with CP, hymn writer Keith Getty reflected on the important role of music in Christian teachings and why Christians must stay rooted in their faith amid societal changes. "Start where you are, fill your own mind with songs of the Lord and fill your family's minds with songs of the Lord," said Getty, who is gearing up for the 2023 Getty Music Worship Conference, which will focus on the role of worship music in the Great Commission. Learn more.

Sarah Young, the bestselling author of Jesus Calling, has passed away at 77. A memorial service for the author and Presbyterian missionary is planned for Sept. 9 at Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tenn. Read more.

A 21-year-old woman suffered severe burns during a deliverance ceremony led by Pastor Taiwo Odebiyi in Nigeria's Ogun state. Odebiyi instructed Sukura Owodunni to purchase Amazing Grace perfume, a candle and local eggs for a special prayer. He prayed, poured perfume on the young woman and lit the candle, immediately catching her on fire. She sustained severe burns to her chest, shoulder and legs. Read more.