Podcasts about despair

Steve says right-wingers in general and Christians in particular should never allow themselves to be black-pilled or despair, and yesterday's stack of Trump wins is emblematic of that. Joe Mitchell, Republican nominee for Iowa's 4th congressional district, joins the program to discuss the energy he's starting to see from the Republican base. Hour Two is Fake News or Not, as the team reacts to a new rule Steve came up with. Pop Culture Tuesday examines '80s movies. TODAY'S SPONSORS: WORLD WATCH NEWS: https://worldwatch.news/ CHIRP: https://gochirp.com/pages/steve-deace use promo code STEVE REAL ESTATE AGENTS I TRUST: https://realestateagentsitrust.com/ THE LAST STAND CONFERENCE: https://thelaststand.com/ promo code DEACE10 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Rabbi Joey Rosenfeld as he guides us through the world and major works of Kabbalah, Hasidic masters, and Jewish philosophy, shedding light on the inner life of the soul.Support Reb Joey's Torah: ⁠⁠⁠https://inwardtorah.org/support⁠⁠

632- Eric Stogner – Are World Events and AI Driving People to Anger, Despair and Coldness? Right click to Download  

Send us Fan MailRetirement? Not this time. This episode goes somewhere much darker—and much more redemptive.In this powerful episode of the Remarkable People Podcast, David Pasqualone sits down with Austin Rampt to discuss addiction, relapse, shame, faith, family, recovery, and redemption.Austin shares an unforgettable story of childhood anxiety, bullying, deep emotional pain, drug addiction, burning down his family home, arrests, sobriety, relapse, running to Mexico, cartel danger, rock bottom, and finally the truth that began changing everything: you do not have to earn love.This episode is for anyone battling: addiction  relapse  shame  hopelessness  emotional wounds  spiritual confusion  family breakdown  or the belief that their life is too far gone to be restored In this conversation, you will hear about: childhood wounds and how they shaped Austin's identity  the first time alcohol made the noise go quiet  addiction, overdoses, and life in Mexico  the lie of “not good enough”  why the opposite of addiction is connection  how faith, surrender, and truth changed his life  the power of family, fatherhood, and recovery  how rock bottom became the beginning of redemption One of Austin's most powerful lines in this episode:“The opposite is not sobriety. It's deep, intimate connections.”If you or someone you love is struggling, please share this episode.Connect with Austin Rampt

Dave is back from northern Michigan, and reality is terrible. The family cabin—built by a relative generations ago—delivered everything Tulsa could not: low-80s afternoons, cool nights, fires, golf, and a lake smooth enough for water skiing.Dave's three oldest girls all learned to ski, which meant it was time for their seasoned-skier father to show them how it's done. The only problem was the pontoon boat. It had enough power to pull the kids, but not quite enough to launch a grown man from a shallow-water slalom start. After several attempts and several falls in front of his daughters, Dave accepted the indignity of starting on two skis and kicking one off. His father's old rule—“In this family, we don't fall”—was not enforced.The pour is Celestial Hazy IPA from Chainsaw Brewing, an overtly Catholic brewery in Richland, Washington. Adam has the Dominions can; Dave has the Thrones. Same beer, different celestial artwork, 6.5% ABV, and Revelation-level labels covered in angels, eyes, and hops. If you want a good IPA from a Catholic brewer, support Chainsaw Brewing and help them #BeerEvangelize.Sponsor: Select International ToursWhen Adam and Dave decided to lead their first pilgrimage, the same recommendation kept coming back: Select International Tours. Having traveled with them, the guys can attest that they're excellent. Whether you want to lead a pilgrimage or join one, visit selectinternationaltours.com and see where they can take you.Sponsor: The Amen appSunday morning is not exactly easy like Sunday morning when you're trying to load a Catholic family into the van and beat Father down the aisle. The free Amen app helps the guys prepare their children for Mass by listening to the Sunday Gospel on the drive. It also includes Catholic classics like Divine Mercy in My Soul and True Devotion to Mary. No paywall, subscription, or upfront cost. Download the Amen app and help get it from 950,000 downloads to one million.The prayer request is Mary. She recently had surgery to place a G-tube, which should make feeding more comfortable and eliminate the constant gagging caused by the tube in her mouth. The immediate goals are to stabilize her, wean her from oxygen, and help her continue gaining weight so heart surgery can be considered in the coming months. A recent video caught her wide awake, smiling, and full of joy in the middle of a life that has involved more struggle than most. Keep Mary, Lady Haylee, and the whole family in your prayers.The Catholic Man Show Campout is also approaching. Registration should open near the end of August, with the campout taking place during the final weekend of September at Clear Creek Abbey. Brandon Sheard will return for a hands-on animal-butchering class, with foraging and woodworking also planned. Those experiences are valuable, but the heart of the weekend is the opportunity to pray with the Benedictine monks and step into the ordered rhythm of monastic life.Then the guys turn to the theological virtue of hope—the virtue a man in heaven no longer needs and a man in hell can no longer possess. Hope belongs to the man in the middle, the wayfarer who has not yet arrived. That means every one of us.Drawing from St. Thomas Aquinas, they explain the four marks of hope's object: it must be good, future, arduous, and possible. Theological hope is not the same as hoping for good weather or a Cowboys Super Bowl. Natural hope rests on circumstances, probabilities, and human ability. Supernatural hope rests on God's goodness, providence, and promises. Its ultimate object is not a better job, a healed body, or a trouble-free life. Its object is God Himself.That is why hope is “cashed in” when a soul reaches heaven. The good is no longer future; it is possessed. Souls in purgatory still have hope because the happiness they await remains future, arduous, and possible—even though their final destination is certain.Josef Pieper helps identify the two ways a man can abandon the road before reaching its end: despair and presumption. Despair decides the promise will not be fulfilled. Presumption decides the reward is already guaranteed without repentance, conversion, or cooperation with grace. Both seize the verdict before the journey is finished.Presumption is not too much trust in God. It is too little. It imagines a God too small to care about justice, transformation, and whether we become the men He created us to be. Despair makes a similar mistake by deciding that God's mercy may exist in general but cannot reach this sin, this failure, or this man.The deeper question is whether we actually trust God. Will He make us happy, or will surrendering to Him leave us regretting what we gave up? We repeatedly hang the weight of our hope on hooks that cannot bear it: a spouse, career, reputation, new client, new car, food, drink, or entertainment. Those things may be good, but none can carry the full weight of the human heart. Only Christ can do that.St. Francis de Sales brings the discussion into moments of panic, temptation, self-loathing, and spiritual dryness. Devotion is not a feeling of sweetness or consolation. It is a firm and active will to do what pleases God. When anxiety hits, do not make major decisions from agitation. A trapped bird only tightens the net by thrashing. Let the water settle, then move.Self-contempt is not humility either. Anger at yourself can be another form of pride because it still assumes you should have been able to save yourself. The better response to sin is quiet displeasure followed by courageous amendment: “Poor heart, rise up again bravely.” Hope allows a man to admit that he is nothing on his own while remembering the immense dignity God gave him through baptism.Spiritual dryness can also teach. If prayer tastes like nothing, examine what you have been eating. Screens, alcohol, entertainment, comfort, and constant stimulation can train the appetite to find spiritual goods tasteless. Keep praying without demanding an immediate emotional reward. Sometimes hope looks like doing the next faithful thing while feeling nothing at all.Dave shares a moment from adoration when he admitted that he was afraid God would ask him to leave a successful career and live in poverty through full-time ministry. His yes was reluctant, but it was still a yes. The answer he sensed was simple: “I just wanted your yes.” Years later, professional success has brought the same temptation back in a different form—the temptation to believe he can provide for himself and no longer needs to depend on God. Surrender is not something a man completes once. God keeps saying: do it again.The practical path is equally simple. Offer the trial already in front of you. Pray for an increase in hope. Pray the Rosary even when you do not feel like it. Make an act of gratitude when despair begins closing in. And stop demanding that this life provide what only the next life can give.We are on the Lord's team—the winning side. Raise your glass.

What if you prayed the Psalms as if they could really help?In this reflection on Psalm 30, John Ortberg explores the difference between simply reciting Scripture and allowing its words to become our own prayer.John shares the story of Rabbi Plotkin, whose life seemed to be falling apart. His marriage was ending. His future felt uncertain. Fear and self-pity had taken over.Then one morning, as he prepared to say the same prayers he'd prayed for decades, he challenged himself:“Don't pray as you always have. This time, pray as if it could really help.”The words were the same.But the speaker was different.When he reached Psalm 30 and read, “At night you go to sleep crying. In the morning there is joy,” something changed. The ancient words suddenly became personal.That's John's invitation to us today: don't merely read Psalm 30.Pray it.Bring your actual fear, grief, need, and hope to the words. Read them as though they're addressed to you. Let the Psalms become a vessel of God's grace in your actual life.In this episode:Psalm 30 and transformational prayerHow to turn Scripture into prayerRabbi Plotkin's story of crisis and hopeWhy familiar words can suddenly become personalThe difference between reciting and prayingHow the Psalms remind us we're not alone“Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning”Praying Scripture with your whole heartScripture: Psalm 30#Psalm30 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #Psalms #PrayingScripture #BibleStudy #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #Hope #Joy

The world is feeling darker and darker these days. So this podcast might be a much-needed balm. It's about hope — a practice that scholar Shannon Murray argues can't be passive. That's where the German term 'freudenfreude' comes in, when someone celebrates the good fortune of others as if it's their own. Murray explains the power of freudenfreude and offers a guide to hope, empathy, and patience through the lens of Shakespeare. Yes. The Bard's words tie into all of this. *This episode originally aired on Nov. 13, 2023.

Send us a voice noteIn this Earthkeepers Essentials archive episode, Wes Willison shares his journey from political awareness to ecological engagement, exploring how faith, community, and practical actions like gun decommissioning serve as acts of hope and transformation. In particular, he and Forrest explore ways in which we can resist despair and practice grace for ourselves in a world fraught with really difficult and sometimes overwhelming problems. In that framework, they discuss the importance of sacramental practices in environmental and social justice work, and how surprise and resilience shape our response to a challenging future. Information: Wes WillisonShane ClaiborneThe Simple Way communityKey  Topicso   Wes Willison's background and journey into earth careo   The role of seminary and the Farminary project in ecological understandingo   The significance of sacramental practices in environmental worko   The process of decommissioning guns as a symbol of hope and transformationo   The impact of political shifts and generational perspectives on climate anxietyo   Coping mechanisms for depression and anxiety related to climate changeo   The potential for surprise and new hope in political and ecological contextso   The importance of community, faith, and practical action in shaping a sustainable future Keywordsecology, faith, social justice, gun decommissioning, community, hope, sacrament, environmental activism, mental health, generational change, depression, self-care, Princeton Farminary, compost theology, Norm Wirzba Some TakeawaysSacramental practices can serve as powerful acts of hope and transformation in social and ecological justice.Engaging with the earth through work like composting and farming reveals God's presence in creation.Decommissioning guns and repurposing their parts into art and tools symbolizes hope and healing.Surprise is a key indicator of the Spirit's activity and a source of hope in dark times.Coping with climate anxiety involves intentional practices of rest, community, and engagement. Find us on our website: Earthkeepers Support the Earthkeepers podcast Check out the Ecological Disciple 

What do you do with the mess inside your mind?In this reflection on Psalm 102, John Ortberg explores how the Psalms can become a kind of divine therapy, teaching us to bring our actual thoughts, emotions, fears, and beliefs honestly into the presence of God.Drawing from Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb, the ABCDE framework associated with Martin Seligman, and insights from Walter Brueggemann and Dallas Willard, John shows us a practical way to process what's happening inside us with God.Psalm 102 doesn't clean up the mess.The psalmist pours it out.Fear. Despair. Exaggeration. Loneliness. Anger.And then comes the turn:"But You, Lord..."We bring God what we're actually thinking and feeling, then allow the truth of who He is to reshape the way we see our circumstances.In this episode:- Psalm 102 and lament- What "divine therapy" might look like- Why our inner lives rarely match what we present publicly- Lori Gottlieb's Maybe You Should Talk to Someone- The ABCDE framework- Why lament Psalms use exaggeration and hyperbole- Walter Brueggemann on Psalm 102- Bringing truth to our thoughts- Dallas Willard's "Eternity is now in session"- Walking through an ordinary day with the Eternal GodScripture: Psalm 102#psalm102   #JohnOrtberg #Psalms #Prayer #MentalHealth #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #DallasWillard #Lament

Upgrade your online protection with an all-in-one security app!Get an exclusive NordVPN deal + 4 months extra here ➼https://nordvpn.com/nothingmajor It's risk free with NordVPN's 30-day money-back guarantee!Submit your questions or life advice to Nothing Major through the fan participation section at https://www.nothingmajorshow.com/On this episode of Nothing Major, Sam checks in from Cincinnati and shares the perks (and grime) of the Great Wolf Lodge before the guys break down an all-American Masters final in Montreal, Ben Shelton's dominant title defense without dropping a set, and Brandon Nakashima's breakthrough week. They also discuss the rise of college-to-pro tennis and what it means for the next generation.In Toronto, they dive into Iga Swiatek's “vintage” run, her 12th WTA 1000 title, and what it means for the US Open and WTA Finals race. Plus, they react to Djokovic's brutal three-set loss, Shelton's early upset, Zverev as the favorite with stars absent, Fritz's racket smash, Draper's candid struggles, and whether anyone should still be complaining about 12-day Masters events.00:00 Show kickoff00:40 Cincy perks and Great Wolf02:20 College tennis surge06:44 All American Montreal final09:23 Shelton return breakthrough12:42 Defending champ in new city15:25 Iga back in Toronto18:39 WTA race and Asian swing22:36 Cincinnati chaos and Novak buzz25:49 Novak Health Watch27:20 Shelton Upset Reaction28:32 Jodar Drama Comeback30:26 Zverev Favorite Debate33:37 Draper Injury Struggles37:21 Olympics Schedule Rant41:36 Fritz Racket Smash43:11 Servebot Shelton Stats43:57 Masters Format Acceptance46:16 Eala Mania Tickets46:54 Wrap And Next Ep Preview

How do you find joy in suffering? That's one of the questions Christian Wiman explores in his poetry and his life.The former editor of Poetry magazine, Wiman is the author of seven books of poetry, including his latest, The Dance. He also teaches at Yale Divinity School. He's been called “the most important Christian writer in America,” though his relationship with God is marked by uncertainty as much as faith. That tension runs through his poetry, where mystical experience, doubt, suffering, and joy continually collide.His understanding of mortality is also shaped by a 20-year battle with cancer. Diagnosed with a rare form of lymphoma and initially given only a few years to live, Wiman has come close to death several times. Yet he speaks about suffering not simply as something to endure, but as a strange territory in which beauty and wonder can sometimes be found.Wiman craves direct experiences of the world, but he finds that writing poetry helps him fully appreciate these fleeting moments of awe and wonder. A frosted hosta, an old candlestick, the trills of a red-winged blackbird—small encounters like these can open onto deeper questions about meaning, eternity, and what Wordsworth called “seeing into the life of things.”—00:00:00 Intro00:02:40 Poetry, Awe and Wonder00:15:10 Twenty Years Battling Cancer00:21:55 Joy in Suffering00:30:45 Seeing Into the Life of Things00:39:40 A Last Poem and Farewell—Links: Book: The Dance Book: Glimmerings: Letters on Faith Between a Poet and a Theologian Book: Zero at the Bone: Fifty Entries Against Despair Yale Divinity School website Profile of sculptor Lee Bontecou Wonder Cabinet is hosted by Anne Strainchamps and Steve Paulson. Find out more about the show at https://wondercabinetproductions.com, where you can subscribe to the podcast and our newsletter.

Gambling has quietly exploded in our culture, especially among young men as apps create a casino in every pocket. Problem gambling help lines report that half of callers are between the ages 18-34. Over $100billion is lost in gambling each year. Gambling is being called "the new p*rn" because it is secretive, instantly accessible, highly addictive, and capable of quietly destroying lives from the inside out. Coach Kerri and Cathy welcome guest Dr. Eric Scalise, a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 46 years, former VP of the American Association of Christian Counselors, and current CSO of Hope For The Heart. Dr. Scalise offers practical help, Biblical wisdom, and needed insights into how innocent social engagement with gambling can quickly progress into a compulsive addiction. This program is a must watch for young adults who are dabbling in what they view as a 'harmless' activity, as well as parents and grandparents who want to be educated on warning signs and when and how to seek help.

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“Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again—my Savior and my God!” (Psalm 42:11 NLT) It’s not unusual for sincere believers to have days of doubt, discouragement, and despair. Even the heroes of the faith struggled in these areas. Moses was handpicked by God to lead the Israelites out of slavery and to deliver the Ten Commandments. Yet, on at least one occasion, he was so overwhelmed by the consistent complaining of the Israelites that he said to the Lord, “I can’t carry all these people by myself! The load is far too heavy! If this is how you intend to treat me, just go ahead and kill me. Do me a favor and spare me this misery!” (Numbers 11:14–15 NLT). Elijah, after his contest with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, heard that Queen Jezebel had put a contract out on his life. He was so overwhelmed by his circumstances, so discouraged, so uncertain, and so filled with doubt that he said to God, “I have had enough, Lord. . . . Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors who have already died” (1 Kings 19:4 NLT). The prophet Jeremiah struggled as well. He was ridiculed and harassed for communicating the Word of God. Because he was tired of the pressure he was facing, it made him want to stop communicating God’s Word altogether. He said, “When I speak, the words burst out. ‘Violence and destruction!’ I shout. So these messages from the Lord have made me a household joke” (Jeremiah 20:8 NLT). Even the apostle Paul had moments when he was discouraged. He wrote to the church at Corinth, “We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it” (2 Corinthians 1:8 NLT). So, if we ever feel overwhelmed, the first thing we need to understand is that we’re in good company. Wrestling with doubt or uncertainty or being perplexed as to why God didn’t work in a certain way doesn’t set us apart from other believers. The second thing we need to understand is that fear and faith are separated by a very thin line, one that often gets blurred during our walk with Christ. One moment we say, “Everything will be fine—no problem.” Then the next moment we can look at the same circumstances and find ourselves in absolute despair. So, what’s the answer? We must recognize that we’re human, just like the great people of Scripture. We must cast our burdens on God and pray for the strength to place our problems in their proper perspective. The psalmist had that perspective when he wrote, “Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again—my Savior and my God!” (Psalm 42:11 NLT). We can’t see the big picture of God’s work in this world. And our limited perspective is bound to cause some heightened emotions. That’s why we must place our trust in the One who can see everything and is working it all for good. Reflection question: How can you keep a proper perspective when you struggle with doubt, discouragement, or despair? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PJ talks to Craig Coady about the rejection of Skyclarys, the first Byrne Report on Corks cost of living crisis Funded by the News Reporting Scheme, great tips on seeing the eclipse. And more.. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Build on the right foundation. Our life is built on His life! MESSAGE SUMMARY: Today, we delve into the profound mystery of the Holy Spirit and its vital role in our Christian walk. We're reminded that it's not just about having the Holy Spirit, but allowing the Spirit to have us - to lead and guide our lives. The message emphasizes three key sins against the Holy Spirit: grieving, quenching, and blaspheming. When we choose bitterness over love, or hold onto unforgiveness, we grieve the Spirit. Every time we sin, we quench the Spirit's flow in our lives. Yet, there's hope in confession, which reopens the floodgates of the Spirit's presence. This teaching challenges us to examine our hearts: Are we truly yielding to the Spirit's guidance? Are we living holy lives that honor God? It's a call to deeper surrender and a reminder of our constant need for the Spirit's empowering presence in our faith journey.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Despair. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Joy. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 1 Thessalonians 5:19; John 14:19; John 8:51; John 11:25; Exodus 3:14; 1 Peter 1:3; 1 Peter 3:20. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Stop Making Excuses for Not Following Jesus and Follow Him Without Reservations”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

The ways in which people deal with grief vary from person to person. At times things can feel very hopeless and filled with despair. Questions arise such as "Where is God?" or "Does He care?" How can we see God's provision in the midst of this? This Sunday we will see how the Lord shows His care for His church through the means of His church.1) Respect for the family2) Caring for the suffererText: 1 Timothy 5:1-16

Text morning, we're starting in Proverbs 14. We consider how we deal with disappointments as Christians as we look to the reading of God's word. If you join with me in prayer. Blessed are you, O God, the Father of all mercy. You have elected us, you've called us, you have justified us, you have sanctified and you have glorified us through your Son, who's the living word. We ask then that it would please you today to take from

Read OnlineOvercoming Fear with Faith“Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” Peter said to him in reply, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught Peter, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” Matthew 14:27–31Fear always clouds our vision. Today's Gospel takes place the night after Jesus fed 5,000 on a mountain near the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, using only five barley loaves and two fish. Afterward, He withdrew to pray alone and sent the disciples ahead of Him by boat, directing them toward the town of Gennesaret, just south of Capernaum. While great miracles occurred the next day in Gennesaret, something just as remarkable took place during the night's journey across the sea.The disciples found themselves rowing against a strong headwind, making the journey slow, arduous, and perilous This scene is a vivid image of our journey through life. Life is rarely “a bowl of cherries,” as the saying goes. It often feels laborious, filled with hardships, and some trials may seem never-ending. If life feels this way, today's Gospel is especially for you.During the fourth watch of the night, between 3 and 6 a.m., as the disciples continued struggling against the waves, they saw a figure walking on the sea, coming toward them. While we may be familiar with the idea of Jesus walking on water, for the disciples, this would have been an unimaginable and terrifying sight. They did not recognize Him—not because His appearance had changed, but because fear blinded them. This still happens in our lives. We can misinterpret suffering or divine silence as abandonment. But Jesus allowed their fear precisely so He could confront it directly: “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” In His divine wisdom, Jesus knew that countless disciples would read this story and ponder this moment until the end of time.What message is He giving us? The courage that comes from recognizing God in our midst allows us to conquer fear—especially in our moments of suffering, when the path ahead seems hard, dangerous, and without end.By a supernatural instinct, Peter utters the perfect prayer in this moment of uncertainty: “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you…” When we recognize God amid our trials, focus our gaze on Him, and pray this prayer, God will always answer, “Come.”Peter sets the pattern for this bold, trusting prayer, but he falters in remaining faithful to it. Yet even this is allowed by God, for our instruction. Making an act of courageous faith does not guarantee we will not stumble. Peter sank not because he lacked faith entirely, but because fear began to overwhelm his trust. And in this, Jesus teaches us another lesson: Even when our faith wavers, we must not give in to despair. Peter did not drown—he cried out once more, “Lord, save me!” and Jesus immediately reached out His hand.Despair is the true enemy of faith. Though fear and the growing force of the wind weakened Peter's faith, he remained hopeful even in his weakness. And it was this hope—however trembling—that moved Jesus to stretch out His divine hand and save him. Reflect today on any trial or suffering you endure that tempts you to fear. Confront that fear head-on. Rebuke it. Look for Jesus, who comes to you in the midst of the trial, walking on and through that very storm. Know that it is truly Him, drawing near. As you overcome fear, keep your eyes fixed on Him, not on the storm. This is what strengthens our faith and enables us to keep moving forward toward the goal: Jesus' hand of divine grace. My saving Lord, though You permit trials in our lives, You always offer the grace we need to endure them patiently and to overcome them with trust and hope in You. Help me, Lord, to always see You in my suffering and confusion. May I never give in to despair, but instead grow in faith as I walk toward You. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image:  Peter Walking on Water by G. PortaSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

I've been sitting with a strange kind of grief lately, the kind that comes from something good. Both my kids will be in college soon, and I know how lucky I am to say that. Still, I keep hearing the same thing from everyone around me. “Molly, this is your time!”Some days that's true. I feel free, open, like a whole new chapter is standing right there waiting for me. Other days my heart aches just thinking about the quiet house. No one asking me to make them a sandwich. No shower running in the morning, no dishes thrown in the sink because someone was rushing out the door. That sound, that mess, I miss it before it's even gone.So I needed today's conversation more than I realized when I sat down to record it.My guest is Kathy Eldon, and her opening line to me set the tone for everything that followed. Don't despair, don't give up. There's no way out, but through.Kathy's life has been one long act of reinvention, from a conservative upbringing in Iowa, to a journalist in Nairobi, to a mother who lost her 22-year-old son Dan, a Reuters photojournalist killed while covering the crisis in Somalia. She has since built Creative Visions Foundation, which has incubated more than 400 projects across five continents and touched over 100 million people. She's the author of 17 books, including her memoir In the Heart of Life, which cracked me wide open before we even hit record.In our conversation, Kathy shares:✨ How being cracked open again and again, by apartheid, by divorce, by grief, became the shape of her entire life rather than something to recover from and move past.✨ What she has learned about grief after losing Dan, including why the second year was harder than the first, and the one piece of advice she gives everyone who is grieving.✨ How she turned unimaginable loss into Creative Visions, and what it looks like to give your creative spark to something bigger than yourself.We also talk about her noisy spirits, her visits with psychic mediums, and her simple, powerful closing words: find a path to joy.This conversation is for anyone standing at the edge of a new chapter, whether it's an empty house, a loss, or a version of yourself you're not sure how to leave behind. Kathy's story is proof that the cracks are not the end. They're where the light gets in.

America's oligarchs are selling the country for parts. What happens when the people finally reach a breaking point? This week, Gaslit Nation is joined by Casey Michel, author of the new book United States of Oligarchy, for a chilling, and ultimately empowering, look at how extreme wealth, floods of money from our foreign adversaries, and decades of dismantled anti-corruption laws brought American democracy to the brink. Michel is a longtime investigator of kleptocracy and authoritarian influence sanctioned by Russia. His new book examines how America's wealthiest people have allied themselves with dictators while weakening democracy at home as major law firms and media jump aboard the gravy train.  At the center of our conversation is oligarchy poster child Jared Kushner and his extraordinary record of failing upward: from buying and hollowing out the once-revered New York Observer, to the disastrous $1.8 billion purchase of the ominous 666 Fifth Avenue, to the billions in foreign sovereign wealth invested in his private-equity firm after his years shaping American foreign policy–a grift he continues today as our shadow Secretary of State.  Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund invested $2 billion in Kushner's Affinity Partners shortly after he left the White House, even after the fund's own advisers reportedly raised serious concerns about the firm. Kushner had cultivated a close relationship with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), who killed dissident and Washington Post writer Jamal Khashoggi. Kushner even reportedly passed on sensitive intel about Khashoggi to MBS.  Casey explains how corporations accumulated political power, how post-Watergate anti-corruption reforms were dismantled, and why today's concentration of wealth makes the original Gilded Age look quaint. Most importantly, we discuss the reforms that could break oligarchic power and how ordinary people can take back the country from the Epstein Class. Listen or watch now for a clear-eyed guide to who bought America, how they did it, and how we take it back. In this week's bonus show, our conversation continues with the practical question: How do we smash an oligarchy? Casey examines the pressure building beneath America's kleptocratic system, the reforms still available to us, and what history tells us happens when ruling elites refuse to change. Despair is what oligarchs want. Build your resilience, find your voice, find your power with Andrea's upcoming book, A Reasonable Guide for Unreasonable Women: 20 Steps to Find Your Purpose and Power in a World on Fire, out November 10. Join Gaslit Nation on Patreon or Substack for the complete bonus conversation, ad-free episodes, invitations to our Monday Salons, and more. Thank you to everyone who makes our independent journalism possible. We could not make Gaslit Nation without you. EVENTS AT GASLIT NATION: Gaslit Nation Salons take place Mondays 4pm ET over Zoom and are recorded and shared on Patreon.com/Gaslit and GaslitNation.Substack.com for our community New! There's now a California Signal Group for Gaslit Nation listeners to find each other and connect in that state. Join on Patreon or Substack! The Gaslit Nation Outreach Committee discusses how to talk to the MAGA cult: Join on Patreon or Substack! Minnesota Signal group for Gaslit Nation listeners in the state to find each other: Join on Patreon or Substack! Vermont Signal group for Gaslit Nation listeners in the state to find each other: Join on Patreon or Substack! Arizona-based listeners launched a Signal group for others in the state to connect. Join on Patreon or Substack! Indiana-based listeners launched a Signal group for others in the state to join. Join on Patreon or Substack! Florida-based listeners are going strong meeting in person. Be sure to join their Signal group. Join on Patreon or Substack! As always, keep it kind in our chat groups, extend grace and assume good faith. A culture of care is how we build a better world. 

Send us Fan MailTrust that God is not done writing your story—and He may yet lead you onto courts you never imagined. Isaiah 40:31: But those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles.Support the show

Hope Amid Despair RAW: Real Authentic Worship Pt. 6 Psalms 42 and 43   Conroe Bible Church Pastor Zach Francis July 12, 2026

What happens when one of the country's sharpest mathematical minds decides that being brilliant isn't enough, that the real work is holding power accountable?In this episode of B the Way Forward, host Brenda Darden Wilkerson sits down with Cathy O'Neil, mathematician, data scientist, founder of the algorithmic auditing firm ORCAA, and author of the landmark book Weapons of Math Destruction, which exposed how opaque algorithms amplify inequality across hiring, credit, criminal justice, and beyond.Cathy's path has been anything but linear: from PhD mathematician to Wall Street quant to Occupy Wall Street activist to public critic of the very systems she once helped build. She has spent the decade since her book's publication doing the unglamorous, legally constrained, financially risky work of algorithmic auditing, turning down lucrative clients whose ethics didn't pass the "can I tell my kids about this?" test, and founding a new nonprofit, Ocean, focused on AI child safety.Brenda and Cathy unpack what it actually costs to follow your conscience in tech, why urgency is a deliberate ethical bypass strategy, why AI is not a math problem, and why the window for federal AI regulation is coming faster than most people think. This is a conversation about accountability, clarity, and what it really means to channel something bigger than yourself.Connect with Cathy on http://mathbabe.org/contactWe Learned About:Why "big data" and "AI" are marketing terms engineered to evoke trust rather than describe something objective, and why that matters for how we regulate themWhat it felt like from the inside to work as a Wall Street quant building models that front-ran California teachers' pension funds, and why Cathy's body gave out before her brain caught upHow Occupy Wall Street taught a pure mathematician that race, sex, and class were not distractions from the financial crisis but the actual storyWhy the lack of accountability, not the technology itself, is the core problem with algorithmic systems deciding who gets a job, a loan, or a prison sentenceHow urgency is used as a deliberate strategy by the tech industry to bypass ethical reflection, and Cathy's triage framework for responding to it anywayChapters:0:00 Introduction & Season Theme1:00 Meet Cathy O'Neil, Author of Weapons of Math Destruction2:00 What "Big Data" and "AI" Actually Mean: Marketing, Hype, and Misplaced Trust4:00 The Lack of Accountability That Drove Cathy to Write Her Book5:30 Starting ORCAA: Trying to Make Algorithms Comply With Anti-Discrimination Law7:00 From Naive Quant to Activist: The Financial Crisis That Changed Everything8:30 What Occupy Wall Street Taught a Mathematician About Race, Class, and Power11:00 When Cathy's Body Knew Before Her Brain Did: Leaving Finance13:00 Front-Running Teachers' Pensions and the Moment It Became Real15:00 Practices and Boundaries That Keep Cathy Grounded Now16:00 The "Can I Tell My Kids About This?" Litmus Test17:30 Why Cathy Measures Herself in Deeds, Not Salary19:00 Is Urgency a Strategy? How the Tech Industry Bypasses Ethics20:00 The Triage Framework: Focus on the Worst Thing Happening Right Now20:30 Why Cathy Founded the Nonprofit Ocean and the Coalition for AI Child Safety21:00 Turning Down TikTok and the Qatar Government: What Integrity Actually Costs23:30 What Speaking Out Has Cost Cathy Professionally and What It Has Given Her25:00 The Patterns in Algorithmic Harm That Never Change Across Industries27:00 When Technical Brilliance Alone Isn't Enough: The Occupy Wall Street Turning Point28:30 "It's Not a Math Problem": Why Cathy Now Calls Herself a Mathematical Sociologist30:00 How Math Facilitates the Hard Human Conversations That Actually Need to Happen32:00 Tech Oligarchs, AI as God, and Why That Vision Won't Play Out33:30 The Humanities Deficit in Technical Education and Why It Matters35:30 How External Validation and Influence Show Up on Cathy's Internal Compass37:00 Why Cathy Did the TED Talk Anyway and Who She Did It For39:00 What to Do When Passion Meets the Long, Hard Reality of Actually Doing the Work40:00 The First Three Years With No Clients: Patience, Hustle, and Rightsizing Ambition41:00 Why Cathy Knits Blankets and What Completion Teaches You About Progress42:30 Advice for Early-Career Data Scientists Who Want to Change the System44:00 Algorithmic Auditing, Data Journalism, and the Legal Tech Pipeline Coming Fast46:00 Defining Leadership by Integrity, Not Influence49:00 The Way Forward: Keep Moving, Stay Curious, Make Room for Despair, Then Find Your Hope52:00 Closing Thoughts: Brilliance Without Wisdom Is Dangerous#BTheWayForward #WeaponsOfMathDestruction #AlgorithmicAccountability #AIEthics #WomenInTech #DataScience #ResponsibleAI #TechForGood

My guest this week is Billy Potter, now CEO of Snellings Walters, and we spend this episode on "the Switch," his firm's process for moving employers from fully insured to self-funded. Billy explains why he thinks it has almost nothing to do with insurance and everything to do with changing who a business trusts to lead them.We get into why "does that make sense?" is the worst question in sales, why he asks prospects "where did I lose you?" instead, and why he believes most deals aren't lost on product, they're lost on communication. Billy breaks down how Culture Index reshaped how his firm hires, trains, and sells, why he tells skeptical prospects out loud that they shouldn't believe a word of his pitch, and why price-driven clients are usually being trained that way by their own consultant.If your presentation is technically correct but you keep losing deals anyway, this is the episode. Tune in."People don't buy what's best for them. They buy what they understand the fastest." - Billy PotterThank you to our 2026 sponsors!ParetoHealth: ParetoHealth empowers midsize employers with a long-term solution to reduce volatility and lower overall health benefits costs. Visit https://www.paretohealth.com/fully-insured-vs-self-funding-with-paretohealth-spencer-podcast/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=SelfFundedwSpencer to learn more.Samaritan Fund: A program that connects those who need help to the support they need. We are proud to offer the Samaritan Fund Program. Visit SamaritanFundProgram.com to learn more.Vālenz Health: We're Vālenz Health, your partner in improving health literacy, reducing plan spend, and delivering high-value healthcare. Visit ValenzHealth.com to learn more.Imagine360: Imagine360 helps self-funded employers save on healthcare with smarter health plans. Cut expenses by 20-30% with custom solutions. Contact us today at Imagine360.com.Chapters:(00:00:00) Intro: Grace, Truth, and Growth(00:03:19) Culture Index and Why It Blew Spencer's Mind(00:04:33) Billy's Background: Rugby, Sun Life, and a Borrowed ID(00:08:13) Partner vs. Vendor: Why "Supplier" Is a Dirty Word(00:12:52) What Drew Him to the Consulting Side(00:14:34) The Peanut Butter Fight and the Valley of Despair(00:16:19) Advice for Young Producers: Dream Big, Get Rejected(00:19:44) Spencer's Story: The Nursery Floor and Three Cases in a Morning(00:24:49) Becoming CEO and Learning to Manage His Emotions(00:29:08) Why He Loves Building Other People Up(00:30:44) EOS and Smoking Out the Real Issue(00:32:20) How Culture Index Runs Through the Whole Business(00:35:06) The Switch: Changing Who Gets to Lead(00:39:44) His First Big Sale: Telling a Client to Go Talk to Their Agent(00:43:02) "Billy Potter Is Gonna Mess Up, and I'll Be There"(00:45:44) Win and Lose the Same Way: The Anthony Russo Lesson(00:50:20) Why 83% of Employees Don't Understand Their Own Plan(00:53:17) The Fifth-Grade-Level Rule and Why Insurance Loves Jargon(00:56:31) "Where Did I Lose You?" and Other Pivot Questions(00:58:12) The Last Slide: "You Don't Believe Anything We Just Told You"(01:01:14) The "Oh, Damn It" Moment and Who's Really at Fault(01:03:37) Where Self-Funding Is Headed(01:05:11) AI, Robot Surgeons, and the Future of White-Collar Jobs(01:12:27) The Chick-fil-A Standard: Hospitality as a Differentiator(01:14:49) Retaining Our Humanity in an AI World(01:17:07) Closing ThoughtsKey Links for Social:@SelfFunded on YouTube for video versions of the podcast and much more - https://www.youtube.com/@SelfFundedListen/watch on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1TjmrMrkIj0qSmlwAIevKA?si=068a389925474f02Listen on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-funded-with-spencer/id1566182286Follow Spencer on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-smith-self-funded/Follow Spencer on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/selffundedwithspencer/

What does repealing Sunday shopping laws have to do with rising rates of suicide, alcohol deaths, and drug overdoses? More than you might expect. In this episode of Thinking Christian, I sit down with Dr. Tamar Oostrom, health economist at The Ohio State University, to walk through her research on blue laws, religious decline, and what the data reveals about the hidden costs of losing community. The paper's central finding is striking: states that repealed blue laws — the Sunday retail restrictions that once made church the default social gathering of the week — saw measurable increases in deaths of despair in the years that followed. States that kept those laws did not. The mechanism isn't as simple as more alcohol access. It's something harder to quantify: the erosion of identity, purpose, and the kind of social accountability that comes with belonging to a local religious community. We talk through what economists actually study, why unintended consequences are so hard to see in real time, and why re-instituting blue laws isn't the answer even if the data is compelling. The more useful question is what individuals, employers, and communities can do now to rebuild the connective tissue that those laws once quietly enforced. The conversation also touches on remote work, social media, and the broader collapse of in-person socialization — and what all of it might mean for where deaths of despair go from here. Find more from Tamar Oostrom at https://www.tamaroostrom.com Subscribe to our YouTube channel

Good Morning BT with Bo Thompson and Beth Troutman | Tuesday, August 4th, 2026. 6:05 Beth’s Song of the Day | Bare-naked Ladies Bumper Tuesday 6:20 Bo's Spider-Man review | Beth impresses with Marvel knowledge 6:35 SC Debate recap with Bo and Beth 6:50 RAM Biz Update; Chipotle Founder says people have "Slop Bowl fatigue" | Counter Service 7:05 Generational Topic: Do you answer the door when the doorbell rings? 7:20 Doorbell talk with Bo, Beth and the WBT text line 7:35 More doorbell talk with Bo and Beth 7:50 Beth's lemonade trials and tribulations 8:05 Panthers gear up for HOF game vs Cardinals 8:20 SC debate recap 8:35 Dirty Restaurant Tuesday with Mark Garrison 8:50 WBT texter sparks personal hygiene habits discussion 9:05 Inside Radio news with Bo and Beth | K-CAL fires entire staff, goes fully automated 9:20 Live Coverage: Interim AG Todd Blanche confirmation hearing 9:35 For the first time ever, Country music takes top 5 billboard spots 9:50 Live Coverage cont. - Interim AG Todd Blanche confirmation hearingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My guest this week is Billy Potter, now CEO of Snellings Walters, and we spend this episode on "the Switch," his firm's process for moving employers from fully insured to self-funded. Billy explains why he thinks it has almost nothing to do with insurance and everything to do with changing who a business trusts to lead them.We get into why "does that make sense?" is the worst question in sales, why he asks prospects "where did I lose you?" instead, and why he believes most deals aren't lost on product, they're lost on communication. Billy breaks down how Culture Index reshaped how his firm hires, trains, and sells, why he tells skeptical prospects out loud that they shouldn't believe a word of his pitch, and why price-driven clients are usually being trained that way by their own consultant.If your presentation is technically correct but you keep losing deals anyway, this is the episode. Tune in."People don't buy what's best for them. They buy what they understand the fastest." - Billy PotterThank you to our 2026 sponsors!ParetoHealth: ParetoHealth empowers midsize employers with a long-term solution to reduce volatility and lower overall health benefits costs. Visit https://www.paretohealth.com/fully-insured-vs-self-funding-with-paretohealth-spencer-podcast/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=SelfFundedwSpencer to learn more.Samaritan Fund: A program that connects those who need help to the support they need. We are proud to offer the Samaritan Fund Program. Visit SamaritanFundProgram.com to learn more.Vālenz Health: We're Vālenz Health, your partner in improving health literacy, reducing plan spend, and delivering high-value healthcare. Visit ValenzHealth.com to learn more.Imagine360: Imagine360 helps self-funded employers save on healthcare with smarter health plans. Cut expenses by 20-30% with custom solutions. Contact us today at Imagine360.com.Chapters:(00:00:00) Intro: Grace, Truth, and Growth(00:03:19) Culture Index and Why It Blew Spencer's Mind(00:04:33) Billy's Background: Rugby, Sun Life, and a Borrowed ID(00:08:13) Partner vs. Vendor: Why "Supplier" Is a Dirty Word(00:12:52) What Drew Him to the Consulting Side(00:14:34) The Peanut Butter Fight and the Valley of Despair(00:16:19) Advice for Young Producers: Dream Big, Get Rejected(00:19:44) Spencer's Story: The Nursery Floor and Three Cases in a Morning(00:24:49) Becoming CEO and Learning to Manage His Emotions(00:29:08) Why He Loves Building Other People Up(00:30:44) EOS and Smoking Out the Real Issue(00:32:20) How Culture Index Runs Through the Whole Business(00:35:06) The Switch: Changing Who Gets to Lead(00:39:44) His First Big Sale: Telling a Client to Go Talk to Their Agent(00:43:02) "Billy Potter Is Gonna Mess Up, and I'll Be There"(00:45:44) Win and Lose the Same Way: The Anthony Russo Lesson(00:50:20) Why 83% of Employees Don't Understand Their Own Plan(00:53:17) The Fifth-Grade-Level Rule and Why Insurance Loves Jargon(00:56:31) "Where Did I Lose You?" and Other Pivot Questions(00:58:12) The Last Slide: "You Don't Believe Anything We Just Told You"(01:01:14) The "Oh, Damn It" Moment and Who's Really at Fault(01:03:37) Where Self-Funding Is Headed(01:05:11) AI, Robot Surgeons, and the Future of White-Collar Jobs(01:12:27) The Chick-fil-A Standard: Hospitality as a Differentiator(01:14:49) Retaining Our Humanity in an AI World(01:17:07) Closing ThoughtsKey Links for Social:@SelfFunded on YouTube for video versions of the podcast and much more - https://www.youtube.com/@SelfFundedListen/watch on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1TjmrMrkIj0qSmlwAIevKA?si=068a389925474f02Listen on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-funded-with-spencer/id1566182286Follow Spencer on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-smith-self-funded/Follow Spencer on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/selffundedwithspencer/

So many Christians struggle with mental health, and yet we still struggle to talk about it without shame. If you've ever struggled with anxiety, depression or sadness because no one understands, this episode is for you. In this honest and deeply compassionate conversation, Barb is joined by author Jean Neely to discuss her book Christ in the Abyss: Cultivating Deep Faith amid Depression and Despair. Drawing from her own decades-long journey with mental health challenges, Jean offers a powerful reminder: God's presence isn't reserved for when we feel strong—it meets us right in the depths of our pain. Together, they explore how Christians can approach depression and mental health with honesty and faith, what to do when struggles begin to shake your beliefs, and how to navigate doubt when God feels silent. This episode offers reassurance that God sees you and loves you, even at your lowest points.   RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE Connect with Jean on Facebook Connect with Jean on Instagram Christ in the Abyss: Cultivating Deep Faith amid Depression and Despair Visit Jean's Website Read from Jean's Substack   ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST Jean Lee Neely is a Korean American writer and educator. She has degrees in comparative literature from the University of California, Irvine and Sorbonne University in Paris and a PhD in English literature from the University of Southern California. Jean writes regularly on issues of mental health and faith for Faith and Leadership, a resource from the Duke Divinity School for Christian leaders. She has also written for Sojourners, Inheritance, the Asian American Christian Collaborative (AACC), and Christians for Social Action. She has taught seminars on navigating the intersections of faith, spiritual formation, and mental health for college students and Christian faculty. She lives in Southern California with her husband and son.

Sermon Audio

Are you tired of coping with secret struggles, unanswered prayers, or spiritual numbness? In part eight of the "That's Crazy" series, Pastor Ryan Kramer takes us into Matthew chapter 9 and Mark chapter 5 to explore the miracle of the woman who suffered for twelve long years. This message exposes how disappointment can paralyze our faith and explains why moving toward Jesus, despite the obstacles and crowd noise, changes everything. If you are ready to declare that enough is enough, this teaching provides the precise spiritual roadmap to move from passive despair to holy desperation. -- Frustration as a Sacred Signal: Understand why persistent frustration might be God's way of preventing you from settling on a lower level of living. -- Moving Past Spiritual Numbness: Learn how remaining in one spiritual position too long creates numbness, and why taking action restores movement to your faith. -- Despair versus Desperation: Discover the vital difference between accepting a painful situation as your permanent identity and choosing to reach out to Jesus for total transformation. -- Preaching to Yourself: Discover the importance of internal dialogue during hard seasons and why aligning your thoughts with God's promises breaks cycles of shame. -- Reaching Beyond the Crowd: Recognize the difference between simply being around religious culture and intentionally reaching out to touch the power of Jesus. Scriptures for Further Study -- Leviticus 15:25-27 -- Proverbs 27:6 -- Malachi 4:2 -- Matthew 9:18-22 -- Mark 5:25-34 +++++++ Join us for church this Sunday. For service times and meeting location please visit https://transformtlh.com/

Ganz kurz fühlte sich Dom Schott wieder wie ein Teenager, als er die erste Runde Bloodspill startete - ein oldschooliger Multiplayer-Shooter im düsteren Mittelalter, garniert mit grober Polygonalgrafik, die an die frühen 2000er Jahre erinnern. Noch ist das Spiel nur eine Demo aber während der Release noch ein paar Monate entfernt liegt, merkt Dom Schott jetzt schon: Bloodspill hat Potential - gerade auch wegen seiner Retro-Inszenierung. Gleichzeitig muss er sich fragen: Kann ein solcher, sogenannter Boomer-Shooter in einem überfüllten Spielregal überhaupt noch erfolgreich sein? Warum nicht gleich ein Spiel machen, das grafisch für eine womöglich sehr viel größere Zielgruppe ansprechend aussieht? Um das herauszufinden, trifft Dom den Macher des Spiels: Fabian Jäckel, ein erfahrener Entwickler, der viele Gedanken zum Spielemarkt, Retro-Ästhethik und nicht zuletzt der deutschen Förderlandschaft mitgebracht hat. Doch im Gespräch geht es nicht nur um Bloodspill, sondern auch um ein älteres Projekt von Fabian, an dem er weiter im Hintergrund arbeiten will - und das verdammt ambitioniert aussieht: Calamity - Oath of Despair, ein Mix aus Dark Souls, Diablo und Roguelite-Überlebenskampf. Klingt abgefahren, oder? Die beiden sprechen auch darüber.

Squad 13 finally assembles the Song, opening the gates to the exit of the Echo Crowns. But what awaits them at the end?

It is the frequent and mournful condition of many a precious soul, under the dark clouds of spiritual desertion or the heavy affliction of bodily melancholy, to apprehend themselves entirely swallowed up in total despair; yet it remains the unalterable covenant-grace of God that His children are never left without such a secret presence and support of His Holy Spirit as keeps them from final shipwreck. Though the felt sense of assurance may be utterly withdrawn, and the believer, like a bruised reed, can discern nothing in themselves but smoke and darkness, the root of faith abides invisibly preserved beneath the soil. As the chief casuists of the church—from Goodwin and Owen to Sibbes and Ridgley—have tenderly demonstrated, the Spirit's supporting hand in the dark is rarely measured by sensible comfort, but by that holy, secret tenacity which causes the downcast soul, even in its deepest agonies, to cry out from the depths and cast itself upon the bare mercy of Christ. To mistakingly judge the absence of light as the absence of life is to misapprehend the subtle workings of grace; for where there remains even a groaning desire after God, a unwillingness to depart from Him, and a casting of the soul upon His bare promise, there Christ is secretly sustaining the smoking flax, guaranteeing that while a saint may walk in deep darkness, they shall never sink into utter ruin.

It is the frequent and mournful condition of many a precious soul, under the dark clouds of spiritual desertion or the heavy affliction of bodily melancholy, to apprehend themselves entirely swallowed up in total despair; yet it remains the unalterable covenant-grace of God that His children are never left without such a secret presence and support of His Holy Spirit as keeps them from final shipwreck. Though the felt sense of assurance may be utterly withdrawn, and the believer, like a bruised reed, can discern nothing in themselves but smoke and darkness, the root of faith abides invisibly preserved beneath the soil. As the chief casuists of the church—from Goodwin and Owen to Sibbes and Ridgley—have tenderly demonstrated, the Spirit's supporting hand in the dark is rarely measured by sensible comfort, but by that holy, secret tenacity which causes the downcast soul, even in its deepest agonies, to cry out from the depths and cast itself upon the bare mercy of Christ. To mistakingly judge the absence of light as the absence of life is to misapprehend the subtle workings of grace; for where there remains even a groaning desire after God, a unwillingness to depart from Him, and a casting of the soul upon His bare promise, there Christ is secretly sustaining the smoking flax, guaranteeing that while a saint may walk in deep darkness, they shall never sink into utter ruin.

Send us Fan MailHope is easy to talk about and hard to hold onto when your child is struggling, withdrawing, or stuck in negative self-talk. We start by defining hope as more than a wish. Real hope is future-focused and backed by action, which means parents can do more than wait and worry. We unpack the signs a child may be losing hope, from losing interest and energy to having trouble imagining a next chapter. From there we share a simple approach that opens doors instead of starting fights: honest “I notice” statements, curiosity, and giving your child enough agency to talk without feeling judged.We also dig into loneliness and isolation, including the way social media and “echo chambers” can reinforce a teen's worst beliefs. A key shift is moving from “How do I get my kid to fit in?” to “How do I help my kid feel belonging?” We talk about faith, community support, and meaningful rituals as anchor points in chaotic seasons, plus why kids often receive wisdom better from trusted adults outside the immediate parent-child dynamic.To close, we focus on what restores hope fastest: small measurable wins, specific encouragement, and unconditional love that is not tied to performance. If you find value here, follow and subscribe, share this with another parent who needs it, and leave a five-star review.Contact:podcasts@calfarley.org To Donate: https://secure.calfarley.org/site/Donation2?3358.donation=form1&df_id=3358&mfc_pref=TTo Apply:https://apply.workable.com/cal-farleys-boys-ranch/j/25E1226091/For More Information about Cal Farley's Boys Ranch:https://www.calfarley.org/Music:"Shine" -NewsboysCCS License No. 9402

Nathan and Cameron explore why hopelessness in the modern world feels fundamentally different from despair in the past, examining how the loss of a shared story, purpose, and identity has contributed to today's crisis of meaning. Drawing on Christian theology, philosophy, Charles Taylor, Blaise Pascal, Stoicism, and biblical examples, they contrast ancient forms of hopelessness rooted in fate, honor, and shame with the late-modern experience of purposelessness and isolation. The conversation unpacks why distraction, self-made meaning, and cultural narratives often fail to satisfy the human longing for significance, while offering a compelling vision of Christian hope grounded in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Rather than denying the brokenness of the world, Nathan and Cameron argue that authentic hope empowers believers to serve others, embrace their God-given purpose, and participate in God's redemptive work through the power of the Holy Spirit. If you've wrestled with anxiety, despair, purpose, meaning, faith, or the difference between optimism and biblical hope, this thought-provoking discussion offers timeless Christian insights for navigating life in an increasingly hopeless culture.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.

Mischke spends the hour with Eric Jay Dolin, author of "The Wreck of the Mentor: Death, Despair, and Deliverance in the Age of Sail."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mischke spends the hour with Eric Jay Dolin, author of "The Wreck of the Mentor: Death, Despair, and Deliverance in the Age of Sail."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Despair isn't sadness — it's the choice to stop hoping, and it destroys Denethor. Patrick Mason, Rob Leonardi, Robert Story, and Fr. Bryan Shackett on the palantír, Sauron's algorithm of doom, and the Gandalf line Pope Leo just quoted. The post The Sin of Denethor appeared first on StarQuest Media.

Join the 3 of 7 team as they discuss Acts 27. ► Sign Up For The Mountain Mama Farms Classic Trail Race → SIGN UP NOW!    ► Check Out Our Partners Barbell Apparel Use code “Chadd” for a FREE pair of shorts with any purchase of $99+ → SHOP BARBELL APPAREL Bare Performance Nutrition Use code “3of7” for 10% OFF → SHOP BPN   ► Support the Podcast → JOIN PATREON → TRAIN WITH US → SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER → VISIT OUR WEBSITE → SHOP OUR STORE   NUFF SAID.

Share this program with a friend or family member at www.joniradio.org!  --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Senator Jon Ossoff revealed to reporters that his Republican colleagues are privately blaming Donald Trump for setting them up for disastrous results in this year's midterm elections. Jen Psaki looks at the unpopular failures, from the war on Iran to ICE agents run amok that are contributing to this political dynamic. Senator Ossoff joins Jen to talk about Donald Trump's efforts to undermine Americans' faith in the U.S. voting system. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg talks with Jen Psaki about why the post-Trump era will not only be a time of repairing the damage Donald Trump inflicted on the United States, but also an opportunity to build the country back in new, better ways.  Brian Tyler Cohen, joins to discuss his new book, "The Day After: How to wield power in a post-Trump world." To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

More of the funniest reviews on the internet! We read reviews for a laundromat & dry cleaner in Ireland, where your whites may end up pink & you will be left searching for that one missing sock. A product made for checking truck tires, but can also be used to beat your husband half to death. A trampoline center, where the babies wander free, the blood spatter tells a srory & the snack bar server will mock you. A gas station, where an attendent provides the service of uncomfortably staring at you & much more!!   Join comedians James Pietragallo & Jimmie Whisman as they explore the most opinionated part of the internet: The Reviews Section! d Subscribe, and we will see you every Monday with Your Stupid Opinions!! Dont forget to rate & review!!   Go to shutupandgivememurder.com for merch & more Check out James & Jimmie's other podcasts, Small Town Murder & Crime In Sports on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!!

This is a Grave Talks CLASSIC EPISODE!What if that streak of bad luck you can't shake isn't bad luck at all… but something darker at work? In this chilling episode, we sit down with Plato Angelakis — the man people call when everything in their lives starts to unravel in ways that defy explanation.From sudden illness to unrelenting despair, some believe demons are experts at quietly dismantling lives before revealing themselves. Plato has seen firsthand how this darkness creeps in, luring the vulnerable into chaos and despair.Is it coincidence, poor choices, or something truly diabolical pulling the strings? Discover the haunting stories of those who believe their suffering wasn't random — and meet the man who's made it his mission to fight back against the unseen.#TrueGhostStory #DemonicEncounters #ExorcismStories #ParanormalActivity #SpiritualWarfare #DarkForces #PlatoAngelakis #HauntingTales #RealHaunting #SupernaturalMystery #FightTheDarkness #PossessionStoriesLove real ghost stories? Want even more?Become a supporter and unlock exclusive extras, ad-free episodes, and advanced access:

This is a Grave Talks CLASSIC EPISODE! PART TWOWhat if that streak of bad luck you can't shake isn't bad luck at all… but something darker at work? In this chilling episode, we sit down with Plato Angelakis — the man people call when everything in their lives starts to unravel in ways that defy explanation.From sudden illness to unrelenting despair, some believe demons are experts at quietly dismantling lives before revealing themselves. Plato has seen firsthand how this darkness creeps in, luring the vulnerable into chaos and despair.Is it coincidence, poor choices, or something truly diabolical pulling the strings? Discover the haunting stories of those who believe their suffering wasn't random — and meet the man who's made it his mission to fight back against the unseen.#TrueGhostStory #DemonicEncounters #ExorcismStories #ParanormalActivity #SpiritualWarfare #DarkForces #PlatoAngelakis #HauntingTales #RealHaunting #SupernaturalMystery #FightTheDarkness #PossessionStoriesLove real ghost stories? Want even more?Become a supporter and unlock exclusive extras, ad-free episodes, and advanced access:

IT'S HERE! Pre-Order the 4th installment of the Ashtown Burial Series at ashtownburials.com.In this episode, Douglas Wilson considers the Supreme Court's birthright-citizenship decision and possible paths forward, examines the sin of making and worshiping the golden calf, and reviews Kurt Vonnegut's practical writing advice in Pity the Reader. For more from Doug, subscribe to Canon+: https://canonplus.com/