Is it permissible to vote for contestants in programs via SMS messages to choose the winners, and does the ruling differ based on the nature of the programs (Islamic or non-Islamic) and the cost of the message?

Participating in SMS message contests is permissible if their content is beneficial and lawful, provided that the message cost does not exceed the usual. If the cost increases beyond that, it becomes a prohibited form of gambling. The fact that the money will be spent on charitable deeds does not change the ruling of prohibition, because the means must be lawful just like the ends. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Indeed, Allah is good and accepts only what is good." However, if the content of the programs is evil, it is not permissible to participate in them at all, regardless of the message cost.