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Kelly is joined by Tyler Stout and Jacob Yancey to preview their upcoming fights for LFA 235 which is Friday 6/19/2026 at Freedom Hall in Louisville, KY. Episode recorded 6/10/2026.
We often think blessing is something we wait on God to do. What if blessing is also connected to what God is waiting on us to do? In week five of our James series, Pastor Jeremy walks through a practical pattern from James that can change the way we hear, respond to, and experience God's work in our lives.
The quickest way to damage a relationship isn't always what you say—sometimes it's what you never stopped long enough to hear. In week four of our James series, Pastor Jeremy explores why listening is harder than it sounds and why our strongest reactions often reveal our deepest issues.
In week three of our James series, Pastor Jeremy dives into the invisible battle happening beneath the surface of our everyday lives. Why do we drift, struggle, rationalize, doubt, and feel stuck in the same cycles over and over again—and how do we actually stand firm when life and pressure hit hard? Because sometimes the greatest battle isn't just what's happening around you… it's the lies trying to take root inside you.
The Hollow Down Cigar Lounge, Episode #89. Cigar: Various.Topics: Leaf N Grain Society, Pairings, Relaxation, and more!
Terry Yancey, LifePoint Church, Valley Center, Kansas, Wichita, Assembly of God
Terry Yancey, LifePoint Church, Valley Center, Kansas, Wichita, Assembly of God
Let me begin by describing what a toxic person is. Toxic means poisonous, dangerous, harmful, and persistent. So, a toxic person is one who can poison an atmosphere, and their actions and words are harmful and repetitive. Not just a once-in-awhile bad day, but a recurring unhealthy and hurtful behavior. Here are some signs that a person is toxic: They talk more than they listen. They are always right—never admit to being wrong. They are drama queens or kings—drama seems to follow them everywhere. They lack tact and general courtesy. They often lie to make themselves look good or to get what they want. They exhibit controlling behaviors. They love to talk about other people—to gossip. They are in general very negative people. Here's the first thing I want to remind you, as we talk about dealing with toxic people. They are people that God loves, just as much as he loves you. I remember long ago when I worked for a boss who was anything but pleasant; I just found it hard to even be around him. But I remember clearly one day when the thought came to me, no doubt from the Holy Spirit, that God loved him just as much as he loved me. I had to sit down and think about it. How could God love someone so unlovable? But it's true, because God is love, that he loves that toxic person in your life just as much as he loves you. And secondly, that person is not in your life by accident. God is allowing it—not approving of their behavior, mind you—but allowing that person in your life for some good reason. It could be to help you grow in grace, as you learn to deal with them. It could be for the good influence you could have on that toxic person—it could be both. But trust me, God has some good reason for this person being in your life. We are told in Scripture: If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:18). That's our assignment for dealing with toxic people. Others may live by more commonly accepted relationship principles, such as, Look out for number one! Don't take any guff! Stand up for your rights! They may have no motivation to live at peace with everyone, but we are called to this Christ-like objective. It is a lofty one; it is often out of step with the world's wisdom; it is often not appreciated or valued by others. But as disciples of Jesus Christ, it is our guiding principle. And for sure, when we can respond to toxic people with more patience, more kindness, and less anger than others, we are demonstrating the love of Jesus, and it won't be missed. Your coworkers may not believe in God. They may never go to church. They may even think you are some kind of religious fanatic, but they cannot escape the difference in the way you respond to toxic people when you allow God's Spirit to empower you to respond like Jesus would. I think your first challenge is to get your own attitude and reactions to toxic people under control. Learn to do some things that will keep you from—as we say—going crazy. Here are four practical things you can do to protect yourself when you're dealing with a truly toxic person. Don't let your thoughts and mind dwell on them all the time. When dealing with such a disruptive and irritating person—on a regular basis, no less—it's very natural to let their behavior occupy your mind and your thoughts way too much. So, if you find you're dwelling on their behavior and you're giving them too much thought time, you need to firmly and swiftly boot the person out of your head. Refuse to let them take over your mind. Philippians 4 tells us to think about things that are lovely, pure, noble—and that pretty much excludes that toxic person. So, stop giving them time in your mind. And how do you do that? You do it by replacing thoughts of them with good thoughts, thankfulness, reciting your blessings, and focusing on God's goodness. That's what it means to bring every thought into captivity and make it obedient to Christ, as we read in 2 Corinthians 10:5. This is a spiritual discipline that will make a huge difference in your life. If you have not already discovered this truth and learned how to take wrong thoughts captive, I recommend a book I've written on it, entitled Think About What You Think About. So, as you head out to work each day, ask the Holy Spirit to remind you to boot those wrong thoughts out of your mind, to help you refuse to allow this toxic person to occupy your thoughts. That is a very important first step. Distance yourself from them as much as possible. You've heard a lot about setting boundaries, I'm sure. The Bible teaches us to set boundaries. For example, these two passages from Proverbs: Proverbs 4:14 – 15: Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evildoers. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way. Proverbs 16:17: The highway of the upright avoids evil; those who guard their ways preserve their lives. And Philippians 4:7 tells us the peace of God will guard our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus. So, we have to be wise about distancing ourselves from people who would fill our minds with evil and try to bring us down emotionally. You may not be able to distance yourself from a toxic person physically, if they are a coworker, but if that is not possible, learn to distance yourself mentally and emotionally. Pray each day that God will protect your mind and teach you how to literally tune them out when you can. You know, if you can wear headphones where you work, you could use that as a buffer between you and that toxic person. Even if you don't listen to anything on your earphones, just wearing them creates some distance. Seek relationships at work with uplifting people. Hopefully, there are constructive people in your workplace. Spend time with them, not talking about the toxic person, but talking about fun things, happy things. Uplifting people are a great counterbalance to toxic people. I remember when one of our pastors answered one of my emails with one of his funny quips. It was on a day when I felt like the world was closing in on me—you've had those days, I'm sure. When I read his funny email, I just laughed heartily and thanked God for a friend like him who can always lift my spirits. I've known him more than 25 years, and he has this wonderful gift of finding what I call the “happy spot.” I hope you have people you work with who can always lift your spirit. Look for them and spend time with them as an antidote for the toxic people around you. Watch your self-talk. Don't be your own worst enemy by talking to yourself in discouraging ways. You know, we all talk to ourselves, and typically we believe what we tell ourselves, don't we? So, watch out for your self-talk and use it for good in your life. Talk to yourself on a regular basis with good news. Don't allow your thoughts to linger in negative territory. You can control what you say to yourself! Listen to how the Psalmist talks to himself: Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God (Psalm 42:11). Well, there are four practical things you can do to protect yourself from the toxicity of coworkers who may be causing discord and disharmony where you work. This attitude change toward toxic people has to be a God-thing or it will never be a reality. The good news is as Christ-followers, we have the power to put these into practice, because we have been given God's Spirit, indwelling us and empowering us. And it begins, as so much does, by prayer. Daily praying something like this: “Lord, whoever I deal with today, help me to see them the way you see them. Remind me that you love them and their real need is to know you.” In his book, Reaching for the Invisible God, Philip Yancey advises that it is easier to act your way into feelings than to feel your way into actions.[1] In other words, do what you know is right to do and let the feelings follow, if they will. If you wait on your feelings to kick in before you do what you know you should do, you'll be in waiting mode many days, if you're like me! John wrote: God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him (1 John 4:16b). Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth (1 John 3:18). This kind of love is an action, not a feeling. It is a decision not a desire. Sometimes the feelings and desires are present; sometimes they are not. Either way, if we live in God, we must live in love. One of the greatest indications that we truly “live in God” and are new creations in Christ Jesus is our willingness to extend this God-love to people who would have no claim on our love otherwise. After all, these toxic coworkers can't expect you to love them, can they? It's not in your job description, and no one can demand it from you. Therefore, when you choose to love in actions and truth, you show a loveless world a little sample of what Jesus is like. You become the love of God reaching out to them, unconditional love, which cannot be explained or ignored. It is powerful in its implications and effects on the relationships of our lives. One small verse in 1 Corinthians 13 reminds us that Love never fails. When nothing else works, try love. When there seems to be no way to improve a relationship, try love. Love never fails. Just as a reminder, tell yourself frequently that workplaces will be workplaces. In most cases, you have a lot of different personalities thrown into one cauldron during working hours. Drama, power struggles, and office politics are often inevitable, at least to some extent. Try to keep yourself as far removed from all this as possible. Concentrate on your own work and excellence and let people be people. — [1] Yancey, P. (2000). Reaching for the invisible God : what can we expect to find? Zondervan.
In week one of our new series through the book of James, Pastor Jeremy unpacks why this book hits so differently when life gets difficult. Because when pressure rises, faith stops being theoretical and starts becoming visible. This message challenges the drift so many of us settle into and asks a hard question: are we actually growing into maturity, or just getting better at looking spiritual?
When Yancey Strickler moved to New York, he was broke, freelancing for $50, and chasing a writing career. Little did he know, his gift for building on the internet would soon change the world of crowdfunding. A chance encounter with a friend and a half-baked idea about crowd-funded concert tickets led to the founding of Kickstarter, a platform that has raised over $7 billion for creative projects worldwide. In this episode, Yancey joins Ilana to discuss his journey from freelancing on a shoestring budget to building a billion-dollar platform and what it took to survive the hardest moments. He also explains his bold plan to help artists participate in capitalism. Yancey Strickler is the co-founder and former CEO of Kickstarter, the platform that raised over $7 billion for more than 200,000 creative projects. He now runs Metalabel, a studio building tools for creative cooperation. In this episode, Ilana and Yancey will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (03:11) From Music Households to Manhattan Bylines (06:28) The Side Project That Changed Everything (13:34) The Ladder Vouch System That Launched Kickstarter (18:57) Why Showing Up as an Open Box Wins Every Room (26:31) The Day Two Projects Hit a Million Dollars at Once (33:40) The New Definition of Work in the Age of AI (36:28) Building the Legal Blueprint for the Artist Economy (43:09) Why the Private Internet Is Where the Real World Lives (49:38) Q&A: How to Open Doors to New Connections Yancey Strickler is a writer, serial entrepreneur, and the co-founder of Kickstarter, the global crowdfunding platform that has raised billions for creative projects. He's the author of This Could Be Our Future and The Dark Forest Anthology of the Internet and the co-host of the New Creative Era podcast. Before Kickstarter, Yancey was a music critic for outlets like Pitchfork and Spin. Today, he leads two bold projects: A Corp, a legislative effort to provide artists with real economic infrastructure, and DFOs, a platform reimagining the private internet. Connect with Yancey Yancey's Website: https://www.ystrickler.com Yancey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yancey-strickler-486b4557/ Yancey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ystrickler/ Yancey's X: https://x.com/ystrickler Resources Mentioned: Yancey's Books, This Could Be Our Future: A Manifesto for a More Generous World: https://www.amazon.com/This-Could-Our-Future-Manifesto/dp/0525560823 The Dark Forest Anthology of the Internet: https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Forest-Anthology-Internet/dp/B0D14NN1DN On the Creative Life: Conversations Toward a New Creative Era: https://squad.metalabel.com/onthecreativelife?ref=ystrickler.com&variantId=1 Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW WAY for professionals to fast-track their careers and leap to bigger opportunities. Check out our free training today at https://bit.ly/leap--free-training
In the conclusion of Marriage Mixtape, Pastor Jeremy gets brutally honest about the small things that slowly take relationships out—and why most of them don't look dangerous at first. Because it's not usually one big moment… it's what builds over time. If you've ever wondered how something good can quietly drift in the wrong direction, this message will help you recognize it—and show you what to do before it's too late.
In week three of Marriage Mixtape, Pastor Jeremy steps into the ring and walks through relationships round by round—starting with what's really behind our communication and why conflict shows up in the first place. Because the goal isn't to avoid the fight, it's to understand what you're actually fighting for. If your conversations keep turning into the same battles, this message gives you a better way to step in, stay in it, and come out stronger on the other side.
In week two of Marriage Mixtape, Pastor Jeremy uses the picture of a cake to show what makes relationships truly sweet—and why some leave a bad taste. Because you can ice it, decorate it, and make it look perfect on the outside, but if the layers underneath aren't right, it won't hold. If something in your relationship feels off but you can't quite name it, this message helps you cut into what's really going on beneath the surface.
What's the single most important thing you can do for your relationships? In week one of Marriage Mixtape, Pastor Jeremy challenges the way we usually answer that question and shifts the focus closer to home. Because the breakthrough you're looking for in your relationships might not start with them—it might start with you.
As we work our way towards a better future for the internet, the most encouraging and exciting part is the people out there building towards that future. Kickstarter founder Yancey Strickler is one such person, and his new company Metalabel has some extremely interesting projects in the works, including the Dark Forest Operating System. This week, Yancey joins the podcast to talk all about his projects and their role in building a better internet.
On this episode of Beyond the Art, we sit down with filmmakers Ben West, alike mteuzi, and Yancey Burns from Rena Flying Coyote Collective, a Native-led nonprofit using film as a tool for social change. They share how their personal paths—from rural Appalachia and small Oklahoma communities to art school and public interest law—eventually converged through the acclaimed documentary Imagining the Indian: The Fight Against Native American Mascotting. Together, they unpack why mascots are not a matter of opinion but of public health, drawing on decades of research that links these images to depression, low self-esteem, and suicidal ideation among Native youth.The conversation then traces the birth of Rena Flying Coyote Collective and its four pillars: filmmaking, coalition building, education, and hands-on community workshops. Ben and Yancey describe touring Imagining the Indian across Turtle Island, building partnerships, and realizing the film needed to live on as classroom curriculum, not just as a one-time screening. They talk about their commitment to making sure Native communities are not just subjects in front of the camera but leaders behind it, and why the collective was founded specifically to help other Indigenous storytellers access tools, funding, and mentorship.From there, the group turns to the projects currently on their plates, including a powerful new documentary being filmed in Picher, Oklahoma, where Quapaw Nation is leading the cleanup of a massive Superfund site created by historic lead and zinc mining. They explore how environmental justice, land sovereignty, and Missing and Murdered Indigenous People intersect on this landscape, and share a preview of Loyal to the Soil, their film on Native military service and the disconnect between Native veterans and the systems meant to serve them. If you care about representation that moves beyond symbols into real-world impact, this episode offers both hard truths and active pathways to change.
In this Easter message, Pastor Jeremy shows how easy it is for any of us to drift—and why the answer isn't trying harder, but choosing something deeper than happiness. When life feels out of control, joy becomes the anchor that holds. If you've lost it—or never really had it—this message points you back to where it's found and what it actually means to live as a child of God.
The art world has no HR department. There's no employer to set up health insurance, no emergency fund, no retirement plan. If you're a freelance artist, that means you're on your own. Today's guest, Yancey Strickler, co-founder of Kickstarter and founder of Metalabel, thinks that can change with a new business designation called the A-Corp. The A-Corp is Strickler's answer to that problem: a new business structure built specifically for artists that comes with legal protection, fair ways to share ownership with collaborators, and eventually, a path to group health insurance. It's currently a bill before the Colorado Senate — and if it passes, Colorado becomes the template for the rest of the country. Strickler walks me through how it works and makes the case that we're only at the very beginning of something much bigger. RELATED LINKS Artist Corporations Metalabel The Creative Independent TED Talk: Forget Hustle Culture. Behold the Artist Corporation New Creative Era podcast — Yancey's podcast with Joshua Citarella Artist Corporations: New Podcast and Early Traction — the episode where Yancey first laid out the A-Corp in detail
In this Palm Sunday message, Pastor Jeremy challenges the way we think about what belongs to us — and what actually belongs to God. If He's the author and authority of your life, then everything you have is already His… the question is whether you're willing to release it. What is God asking from you right now — and will you actually say yes?
Comment on the Show by Sending Mark a Text Message.What happens when a loyal employee faces a shocking betrayal from the very company they dedicated their life to? Join Mark Carey in this gripping episode of the Employee Survival Guide® as he unravels the harrowing tale of Frosty Ellis Yancey, a 42-year veteran of Midwest Block and Brick, who found herself at the center of a devastating corporate scandal involving age discrimination and a canceled transfer that turned her life upside down.Frosty's journey is a cautionary tale for anyone navigating the complex waters of employment law, especially when it comes to age discrimination. After receiving the green light for a lateral transfer to Houston, she sold her home in St. Louis and made significant life changes, only to have her dreams shattered by an abrupt cancellation from management. This episode dives deep into the legal intricacies of her case, exploring concepts such as constructive discharge and the implications of age discrimination. Mark and his co-host dissect recent court rulings, including the landmark Supreme Court decision in Muldrow v. City of St. Louis, which could reshape the legal landscape for employees facing similar corporate betrayals.Listeners will gain invaluable insights into the importance of securing written agreements and the potential pitfalls of corporate bureaucracy that can leave long-serving employees vulnerable. The discussion raises critical questions about the role of human resources in employee relations and the systemic issues within corporate structures that often lead to workplace discrimination and hostile work environments. With age discrimination at the forefront, it's essential for employees to understand their rights and the necessary steps to protect themselves in the face of corporate challenges.This episode is not just about Frosty's story; it serves as a wake-up call for employees everywhere. As Mark and his co-host navigate the murky waters of employment law, they empower listeners with practical tips on negotiating severance packages, understanding employment contracts, and recognizing the signs of a toxic workplace. Whether you're dealing with performance reviews, facing discrimination, or simply trying to survive in a demanding work environment, this episode is packed with insights that can help you advocate for your rights and navigate the complex landscape of employment law. Don't miss out on this eye-opening discussion that highlights the importance of vigilance, legal awareness, and employee empowerment in today's corporate world. Tune in to the Employee Survival Guide® and equip yourself with the knowledge to thrive in your career while safeguarding your rights against age discrimination and other employment law issues.To Show Your Support: send Frostie Ellis-Yancey an email to frostieyancey@sbcglobal. If you enjoyed this episode of the Employee Survival Guide please like us on Facebook, X and LinkedIn. We would really appreciate if you could leave a review of this podcast on your favorite podcast player such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Leaving a review will help other employees find the Employee Survival Guide. For more information, please contact our employment attorneys at Carey & Associates, P.C. at 203-255-4150, www.capclaw.com.Disclaimer: For educational use only, not intended to be legal advice.
Yancey is a 5-foot-10 1/2, 190-pound wide receiver at Duncanville High School in Duncanville, Texas. He is set to make his first visit to Florida on Saturday. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In the finale of our Act Like Men series, Pastor Jeremy reminds us that strength without love is failure. Looking at 1 Corinthians 13, we're challenged to ask a deeper question: does love actually define the way we live, lead, and speak? Because at the end of the day, the real test of a man isn't what he accomplishes, it's how he loves the people closest to him.
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In part five of Act Like Men, Pastor Jeremy lays out four clear indicators of a strong man — not culture's version, but Christ's: Sabbath, perseverance, humility, and service. Because the real test of strength isn't what you build in this life… it's what they'll say when you're gone.
In part three of our Act Like Men series, Pastor Jeremy reminded us that men don't drift into strength, they fight for it. We fight for the right foundation, the right identity, and the right atmosphere in our homes. If we're going to stand when it counts, we don't rely on willpower, we put on the armor of God. We dress for battle daily. And we refuse to fight the enemy with timidity.
In Part 2 of Act Like Men, Pastor Jeremy pulls back the curtain on a reality most men would rather ignore—we're not just drifting, we're in a fight. This message exposes the subtle ways the enemy works to wear men down, distract them, and pull them off responsibility without ever sounding the alarm. If you've ever felt pressure, resistance, or quiet defeat creeping in, the question isn't if you're in the battle—it's whether you're fighting it the right way.
God created men with responsibility, purpose, and authority—but those were the first things the enemy went after. When we start questioning God's Word, His work, or His worth, things quietly begin to drift in our faith, our relationships, and our work. The real question is this: what does it actually look like to act like a man in a world that keeps redefining it?
Faith doesn't always look loud or confident—sometimes it looks like pushing through the crowd, reaching out, and refusing to let the moment pass. In Mark 5:21–43, we're reminded that real faith takes action, even when fear, delay, or doubt are pressing in. The question is simple: what would happen if you trusted Jesus enough to reach for Him anyway?
Ever open the Bible with good intentions… and end up feeling a little lost? Pastor Jeremy introduces SPACEPETS—a simple way to stay grounded, ask better questions, and actually let Scripture shape your life instead of just staring at the page.
News of beloved author Philip Yancey's years-long affair with a married woman sparks a tough but worthwhile conversation between Brian and theologian Lindsey Hankins. From initial grief and accountability to the ultimate legacy of their work, join us as we explore what to do when a Christian public figure we trust and respect experiences a fall from grace.Christianity Today article: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2026/01/author-philip-yancey-confesses-affair-withdraws-from-ministry/The Dunning-Kruger Effect: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/dunning-kruger-effectDr. Brian Doak is an Old Testament scholar and professor: https://www.georgefox.edu/academics/undergrad/departments/religion/faculty/doak.htmlDr. Lindsey Hankins is the Director of the School of Humanities and Assistant Professor of Theology at George Fox University: https://www.georgefox.edu/academics/undergrad/departments/religion/faculty/hankins.htmlIf you enjoy listening to the George Fox Talks podcast and would like to watch, too, check out our channel on YouTube! We also have a web page that features all of our podcasts, a sign-up for our weekly email update, and publications from the George Fox University community.
In this week's conversation between Dr. James Emery White and co-host Alexis Drye, they discuss what's left in the wake when a beloved leader - particularly one who works in the ministry of the Christian faith - falls. To be sure, there is heartbreak and disillusionment and confusion. And sadly, more and more frequently we're hearing about the moral failings of pastors or favorite authors - names like Bill Hybels, Ravi Zacharias and, most recently, Philip Yancey. Episode Links The recent news about Yancey was what prompted today's conversation. He's the author of such classics as What's So Amazing About Grace and The Jesus I Never Knew. His books have sold more than 20 million copies, and he is arguably the most beloved Christian author of our generation. This past week, he confessed to an eight-year extramarital affair. You can read more about that HERE. The first question posed by Alexis was, “Why does this keep happening?” Dr. White once wrote a blog titled “Why Leaders Are Falling (and why ‘There but by the grace of God go I' is so inadequate).” If you're interested in reading that you can find it HERE. We'd also encourage you to check out an early episode of the Church & Culture Podcast that touched on this as well: CCP4: On Pastors and Moral Failings. Dr. White also made note of the harm that can be done within Christian ministry through very broad, generalized NDAs that are used to cover up a multitude of sins. For more on this, we'd encourage you to go back and listen to CCP67: On the Secrets of Hillsong and the Duggars, and a blog titled “Should a Church Use NDAs?, which you can find HERE. Dr. White brought up how much of the sin that seems to grip leaders - including Yancey and Hybels - is sexual in nature. Dr. White wrote about the importance of those in ministry guarding against this type of sin in his books What They Didn't Teach You in Seminary and A Traveler's Guide to the Kingdom. Finally, Alexis asked how the body of work - whether sermons or books or Bible studies - related to these fallen leaders is to be handled. Dr. White wrote a helpful blog on this topic that he touched on in today's episode. We'd encourage you to read “Evaluating the Fruit Test” HERE. For those of you who are new to Church & Culture, we'd love to invite you to subscribe (for free of course) to the twice-weekly Church & Culture blog and check out the Daily Headline News - a collection of headlines from around the globe each weekday. We'd also love to hear from you if there is a topic that you'd like to see discussed on the Church & Culture Podcast in an upcoming episode. You can find the form to submit your questions at the bottom of the podcast page HERE.
What if understanding the Bible was simpler than you've been led to believe? In this message, Pastor Jeremy uses a creative, hands-on visual to show how the whole story of Scripture fits together and why it actually matters for everyday life.
It's Thursday, January 8th, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Columbian pastor killed on New Year's Eve Armed individuals shot a Protestant pastor to death in Colombia on New Year's Eve. Pastor José Otoniel Ortega was a leader in the Foursquare Gospel denomination. He was celebrating the start of the New Year with his family at the time of the attack. The South American nation has faced a long-running internal conflict. Sadly, criminal groups in this conflict often target religious leaders for opposing violence. At least 10 Protestant leaders have died in such killings over the last year in Colombia. Christian Solidarity Worldwide said Ortega's denomination described him as “a beloved pastor, a faithful servant, a man who walked with God, who preached the word with love and gave his life to Kingdom service.” Venezuelan Evangelical groups calling for prayer Evangelical organizations in Venezuela are calling for prayer and peace as the country faces political upheaval. A message from the Evangelical Council of Venezuela stated, “We reaffirm our confidence in the sovereignty of God, who reigns over the nations and guides history according to His eternal purpose. … As a church, we remain committed to preaching the Gospel, building up God's people, and the pursuit of the common good.” The statement comes after the United States captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro over the weekend. Psalm 75:6-7 says, “For exaltation comes neither from the east nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He puts down one, and exalts another.” America gets 40 million barrels of Venezuelan oil Interim authorities in Venezuela will be handing over 30 to 50 million barrels of oil to the United States. U.S. President Trump announced the news on Tuesday. He wrote on Truth Social, “This oil will be sold at its Market Price, and that money will be controlled by me, as President of the United States of America, to ensure it is used to benefit the people of Venezuela and the United States!” President Trump and top U.S. oil executives plan to meet Friday. They are planning major investments in Venezuela's oil sector. Abortion deaths totaled 73 million worldwide in 2025 Abortion deaths rose to over 73 million last year according to Worldometer's analysis of data from the World Health Organization. Worldometer reports 140 million total deaths in 2025. Sixty-seven million of those deaths were attributed to a cause other than abortion. That means the killing of unborn babies accounted for over 50% of deaths last year. Once again, abortion was the leading cause of death in the world. Romans 3:15-18 says, “Their feet are swift to shed blood; destruction and misery are in their ways; and the way of peace they have not known. There is no fear of God before their eyes.” Texas and Florida sue FDA over generic abortion kill pill In the United States, Texas and Florida filed a lawsuit last month against the Food and Drug Administration. The lawsuit challenges the FDA's decision to approve a new generic version of the abortion drug mifepristone. The case also challenges rules that allow women to easily obtain such abortion pills through the mail. It adds, “The United States Food and Drug Administration is responsible ‘for protect[ing] the public health by ensuring that … drugs are safe and effective.' Yet the FDA's approval and deregulation of abortion drugs have placed women and girls in harm's way.” Trump cuts social service funding to blue states over fraud concern The Trump administration cut social services funding to Democrat-led states over fraud concerns on Tuesday. The Department of Health and Human Services froze the $10 billion in funding to New York, Illinois, California, Minnesota, and Colorado. This follows the department's decision last Tuesday to freeze $185 million in child care payments to Minnesota. Daycare centers run by Somalis in the state are facing major allegations of fraud. Christian author Phillip Yancey confessed 8-year affair Philip Yancey, the bestselling Christian author, has admitted to having an extramarital affair with a married woman for eight years and has stepped away from ministry, reports the Christian Post. In an emailed statement to Christianity Today, where he was editor-at-large, the 76-year-old Yancey stated that “I confess that for eight years I willfully engaged in a sinful affair with a married woman. My conduct defied everything that I believe about marriage. It was also totally inconsistent with my faith and my writings and caused deep pain for her husband and both of our families.” Yancey added, “I have confessed my sin before God and my wife, and have committed myself to a professional counseling and accountability program. I have failed morally and spiritually, and I grieve over the devastation I have caused.” Calling the affair “my great shame,” Yancey added that he was “now focused on rebuilding trust and restoring my marriage of 55 years. Having disqualified myself from Christian ministry, I am therefore retiring from writing, speaking, and social media. Instead, I need to spend my remaining years living up to the words I have already written. I pray for God's grace and forgiveness — as well as yours — and for healing in the lives of those I've wounded.” Hebrews 13:3 says, “Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled; but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.” Phillip Yancey was the author of several notable Christian books, including Disappointment with God, Where is God When it Hurts?, The Jesus I Never Knew, What's So Amazing About Grace?, Prayer: Does It Make Any Difference? and Where the Light Fell. U.S. government encouraging more whole foods & protein, less sugar And finally, the Trump administration released new dietary guidelines for Americans yesterday. The policy encourages people to eat more whole foods and protein while consuming less processed foods and added sugar. The guidelines noted, “For decades, federal incentives have promoted low-quality, highly processed foods and pharmaceutical intervention instead of prevention.” Listen to comments from Brooke Rollins, the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture. ROLLINS: “The new guidelines are all about putting the well being of Americans first, exactly where it should have been all along. This is the foundation that will make America healthy again, not just for those of us alive today, but for our children and our children's children and those coming behind. “God bless American families. God bless the American farmer and rancher and God bless America.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, January 8th, in the year of our Lord 2026. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.
What if one simple habit could quietly change the direction of your life? In part one of 'What You Need To Know To Know What You Need To Know', Pastor Jeremy unpacks why prayer isn't optional—and how practicing God's presence reshapes everything else.
What actually happens when companies run out of ideas—and who do they call next? Beth Yancey Storz '92Beth is an innovation leader, creative strategist, and co-author of Outsmart Your Instincts. For decades, she's helped teams break through stuck thinking and lead better brainstorms. In this episode, she takes us inside the room where ideas are really made.Do you know why “no idea is a bad idea” isn't quite right? Or how negativity quietly kills creativity? And what great facilitators do differently to keep energy high all day long?Tune in if you want those answers and to know why learning how to think may be more important than what you think.WE think she's amazing. No brainstorming needed for that one.LinkedIn: Beth StorzNot sponsored by or affiliated with Cornell University
Dark days have a way of disorienting us—especially this time of year. In our Christmas Candlelight service, Pastor Jeremy talks about why light doesn't avoid the darkness, it enters it—and what that means for the places in our lives that feel heavy, quiet, or uncertain.
Christmas is full of things we unwrap, but the most meaningful gifts are often unseen. In our Big Christmas service, Pastor Jeremy reflects on the gifts God gives—and why they still matter long after the Christmas season fades.
Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode, Will and Josh talk with Dr. George Yancey, a sociologist at Baylor University who specializes in race, identity politics, Christianophobia, and how faith communities can move beyond today's culture-war structures. The conversation unpacks why identity politics has become such a powerful force, how Christians can disentangle their core identity from political tribes, and why social identity theory helps explain today's polarization. Dr. Yancey also discusses his research on Christianophobia, the limits of both conservative and progressive models, and how a Christ-centered identity offers a more honest path forward than culture-war loyalty.Additional ResourcesDr. Yancey's YouTube channel: Shattering ParadigmsSociology Department at Baylor University (contact): https://www.baylor.edu/sociology/Guest BioDr. George Yancey is a sociologist and professor at Baylor University whose work focuses on race, social identity, anti-Christian bias, and the intersection of faith and culture. He is the author of several books on racial reconciliation, Christianophobia, and sociology of religion. His research emphasizes data-driven analysis and a Christ-centered approach to navigating America's most polarized debates.Support the show
This week we looked at the surprising connection between happiness and how we relate to the people around us. Gratitude, prayer, generosity, and love aren't holiday sentiments—they're habits that actually shape how we experience joy. If happiness is a choice, what are the choices that help us grow it?
In Part 7 of Clarity, we challenged some of the modern assumptions about what church is and what church is for. When it shifts from something we attend to something we live, everything changes. What if the difference you're looking for begins with the role you play?
Monologue:Central Texas Youth BalletMarathon Cheaters! Maywald Christmas Display EndsSave The Date For NarcissistsChristmas on MercerGuest:Today we're joined by Kimberly Lloyd and Kim Yancey — two Dripping Springs moms who have built their families through fostering and adoption, one brave “yes” at a time. Between them, they've fostered over 20 children and adopted 11, and their story started when they were each caring for a sibling pair — a little boy and his newborn sister — and decided to walk the journey together.Kimberly is a former pediatric medical professional and full-time advocate for her bustling crew of nine. Kim is a longtime surrogacy and adoption professional, a six-time gestational surrogate, and writes adoption home studies while raising her own blended, beautifully busy family.They are here to talk openly about the joy, the heartbreak, the humor, and the holy chaos of foster care, and what it really means to build a family with intention, compassion, and a whole lot of faith.Stories that deserve to be told! Based in Dripping Springs, Steve Mallett and Michelle Lewis invite you into their world of engaging conversations with guests who bring fresh ideas, humor, and wisdom to the table. They dive into everything from life's absurdities to community quirks, adding their signature twist of small-town charm and bold candor. Think of them as the funny neighbors with the best stories, the ones who always tell it like it is. With a healthy dose of Hill Country spirit, they explore local gossip and topics that connect us all—proving you don't need to be famous to be extraordinary; you just need a microphone and the courage to share your voice. Every episode is a mix of laughter, insight, and connection, making this podcast one you won't want to miss! Send us a textSupport the show Looking for the best Realtor in Dripping Springs? The #1 choice is the Mallett Integrity Team, led by Steve Mallett. Local expertise, integrity, and results-driven service— Cedric Mills, Carlisle Kennedy, Maury Boyd, and Michelle Lewis. SouthStar Bank a tradition of full-service community banking for over 100 years. Your neighborhood Bank. www.southstarbank.com The Deep Eddy Vodka Tasting Room is in the Texas Hill Country just outside Austin, TX. The venue welcomes over 75,000 visitors annually and sits within the former bottling plant. Family Friendly Fun in the Hill Country! events@deepeddyvodka.com Jovie Belterra-Nestled within the Belterra community, discover your path to joy and wellness at the exquisite 55+ apartment community. Follow us, leave a review, TELL A FRIEND!AppleInstagramWebsite...
In part six of Clarity, we talked about one of the most surprising things Jesus ever said — that the Holy Spirit is actually a staggering improvement to a face-to-face conversation with Him. Sounds wild, right? But that's the kind of help we've been given — not distant advice, but a personal counselor who guides, convicts, and reminds us what's true when everything else gets loud.
In part five of Clarity, we revisited the foundations of faith that have grounded followers of Jesus for centuries. When culture keeps rewriting the story, these truths remind us who God is and who we are. And at the center of it all isn't a statement, but a Savior.
In part four of Clarity, we looked at the question Jesus asked that still divides opinions and defines eternity: “Who do you say I am?” Every answer reveals something about who we believe He is—and who we believe we are. Because if Jesus really is Savior, King, and Lord, then the real question isn't who is He?—it's who is He to you?
In part three of Clarity, we're unpacking how what you believe about God shapes everything you believe about yourself. He's not a distant boss but a Creator who forms, a Shepherd who protects, and a Father who calls you His own. The question is—are you living like you know who He really is?
Dreams do come true with good planning and hard work. Mike Yancey is a prime example of being able to experience multiple hunts of a lifetime. Just back from his 8th trip to Africa, Mike shares how a little planning and steady work has allowed him to not only hunt Africa again but share the experience with his wife and friends. Mike explains the steps to making a dream hunt become a reality, whether Africa or somewhere else. Additionally, he shares several great hunts.
Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with David Yancey, president of Presbyterians for the Kingdom, and Generation Z influencer Redeemed Zoomer to discuss their mission to renew the Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) and the broader Operation Reconquista movement. They dive into the challenges and opportunities of restoring traditional theology within mainline Protestant denominations, the role of young conservatives in this revival, and their plans for the future. From institutional commitment to the power of historic churches, this episode explores why they're staying to reform rather than leaving.CHAPTERS:(00:00 - Introduction)(00:33 - What is Presbyterians for the Kingdom?)(01:07 - Operation Reconquista and Its Inspiration)(02:48 - Networks within the PCUSA)(06:21 - Challenges of Mainline Decline)(08:19 - A Generational Shift Toward Conservatism)(11:11 - Personal Ties to the PCUSA)(16:11 - Perceptions of the Movement within PCUSA)(19:46 - Institutional Commitment in the PCUSA)(27:01 - Balancing Word and Sacrament in Reformed Theology)(33:40 - Biblical Case Against Splitting from the Church)(37:06 - Stewardship of Historic Resources)(42:30 - Future Plans for Presbyterians for the Kingdom)GUEST LINKS:
You may know Philip Yancey as the bestselling author of What's So Amazing About Grace?, Where Is God When It Hurts?, and The Jesus I Never Knew. We've even had him on the show a few times to talk about these books and more. For decades, his writing has guided Christians who are wrestling with disappointment, doubt, and suffering. But in recent years, his own life has required deeper study into such things. In this episode, Philip Yancey joins Russell Moore for an honest conversation about suffering, lament, and the God who meets us in our pain. Yancey opens up about his own story, from the trauma of losing his father to living with cancer and Parkinson's. He reflects on how those experiences have shaped his faith and why simplistic religious answers so often do more harm than good. Together, they talk about what the Book of Job does—and doesn't—say about suffering, and why Jesus didn't “solve” pain during his earthly ministry. Yancey explains why lament is not only permitted but essential, and what it means for the church to be a place of comfort rather than clichés.Plus: what surprising things led him to see the graciousness of God before writing the book(s) on it. If you've been sitting in the silence of God, or are grappling with the problem of pain in your own life, you may find comfort in this conversation. Resources mentioned in this episode or recommended by the guest include: Where Is God When It Hurts? by Philip Yancey What's So Amazing About Grace? by Philip Yancey The Jesus I Never Knew by Philip Yancey The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky The Idiot by Fyodor Dostoevsky War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices