It’s our second call-in show! Kara and Scott talk to Pivot listeners and answer questions about investing in your 50s, how much is enough, and what is going with the job market in tech. Plus, how to approach parenthood in today’s age, and how to address racial biases in venture capital. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on Bluesky at @pivotpod.bsky.social. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this FUSION EDITION of the ODPH, the panel sits down to discuss: - Week 13 in the NFL, including how we did with our locks & leaps picks! - What we thought of the SERIES FINALE for Superman & Lois, the FINAL DC TV show on the CW! To avoid spoilers, jump to: 1:29:05 - A recap of what went down at Survivor Series Wargames! All that and much more! For more #ODPH Content, check out our website! For #ODPH Social Media, here’s our directory! Sign up for the ODPH Patreon! THANK YOU TO OUR AMAZING PATRONS! Check out the ODPH Merch Store at TeePublic! ODPH Sports Edition Intro Music provided by Brian Wolff Contact NERD INITIATIVE

Send us a textTyler @JTyPatrick, James @SupermanRed_Kr & Levi @RoundSuperan talk #SupermanAndLois S4E8 “Sharp Dressed Man” & The Finał Days of #Superman. #WonderWoman #DCComics @DCOfficalFor all things Krypton Report: https://linktr.ee/KryptonreportHelp keep Krypton from Exploding join the $1 a month Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kryptonreportpod

Join the Nerd Initiative Bullpen as they talk with ZACK KAPLAN about the hit new series from Dark Horse Comics: KILL ALL IMMORTALS! Follow Zack AT: https://zackkaplan.substack.com/ Follow Ken at: https://linktr.ee/odphpodcast Follow Tom at: https://linktr.ee/offthecufftom Follow Matt and Lauren at: https://linktr.ee/hopsgeeknews Find Your LCS: https://www.comicshoplocator.com/ Tom Jolu music: https://tomjolu.bandcamp.com/track/im... For your NCBD reviews destination: https://nerdinitiative.com/comic-books/ Last but not least: https://nerdinitiative.com #comics #comicbooks #DarkHorsecomics #newrelease #ZackKaplan #action #combat #mustread #storytelling

In this first part of a series designed to help us understand different End Times views—particularly of the Millennial Kingdom—Dan Jarms and John Gardner discuss the essentials of the End Times, emphasizing the importance of a high view of Scripture and non-negotiable beliefs. They highlight the necessity of Christ's return, the reality of judgment and eternal consequences, and the promise of a bodily resurrection and a new heavens and new earth. They stress the importance of evangelism, driven by the belief in a real hell and a real heaven. The conversation underscores the unity of believers in these core tenets, despite differing views on the millennium. They conclude by encouraging active faith and social engagement until Jesus' return.

On this edition of the ODPH, the panel sits down to discuss: - Week 2 in the NFL! Including how we did with our locks & leaps picks! - What went down at UFC 306!  - The news of a CLASSIC WWE show returning this December! All that and much more! For more #ODPH Content, check out our website! For #ODPH Social Media, here’s our directory! Sign up for the ODPH Patreon! THANK YOU TO OUR AMAZING PATRONS! Check out the ODPH Merch Store at TeePublic! ODPH Sports Edition Intro Music provided by Brian Wolff Contact NERD INITIATIVE

Margo is joined by one man band, Dan Checkers otherwise known as Dan & Drum. Releasing his debut album in 2017 with no label, connections, or many friends for that matter, he was surprised to see it get millions of streams in the first year, thanks to creators like Jenna Marbles featuring the music. Since then, he's been consistently releasing music, earning 10s of millions of streams across platforms, while touring across the US. Since COVID, he's been selling personalized songs to fans that are then publicly released later- which he finds to be his most artistically fulfilling venture to date!   Margo and Dan discuss: His path into music and niching into personalized music The power of networking and connections in the music industry How he transformed challenges brought on by the pandemic into an opportunity His process of songwriting His belief in the personal being universal Personal struggles with depression and how a gift from his mom became a crucial outlet How social media algorithms can be leveraged to build an audience Potential benefits and limitations of signing with a music label   Connect with Dan: https://www.dananddrum.com/personalizedsongs https://open.spotify.com/artist/1ZajCRAa7VEcTytwxzr20a https://www.instagram.com/dananddrum/   Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill  

This week to identify some new arseholes Sammy is joined by the great Reuben Kaye! Confessions Live, 23rd August: tickets Follow Reuben: here Follow Confessions: here Follow Sammy on instagram & threads: here patreon.com/confessionsthepodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's the 6 Year Anniversary Show recorded live at Comedy Republic during the Melbourne International Comedy Festival with special guests Wil Anderson, Genevieve Morris, Bron Lewis and Reuben Kaye. Follow Confessions: here Follow Sammy on instagram & threads: here Follow Wil: here Follow Reuben: here Follow Genevieve: here Follow Bron: here patreon.com/confessionsthepodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the key teachings about the Rapture that is recorded in several places in Scripture is often called the doctrine of imminency. When something is imminent, it could happen at any moment. There are no barriers that need to be removed or qualifications that need to be met before it occurs. Importantly, an event that is “imminent” is not necessarily “immediate.” Saying an event is imminent does not mean it is guaranteed to occur in the immediate future, only that it could occur at any time. Bible expositor A. T. Pierson wrote, “Imminence is the combination of two conditions . . . certainty and uncertainty. An imminent event is one which is certain to occur at some time, uncertain at what time. Imminent is not synonymous with impending. It is not exact to say what is imminent is near at hand; it may or may not be.” I am highlighting this term because the Bible presents the Rapture as an imminent event – one that could take place at any moment. This chapter will show you where to find those claims in Scripture and why the doctrine of imminency is important for your everyday life.

In this episode Dan and Nathan discuss the basics of the Gospel as presented through "Two Ways to Live". After an overview they focus in on boxes five and six: 5. Jesus, the risen ruler and savior. 6. Two ways to live—our way or God's new way.View Two Ways to Live

Gregory Smith is the owner of Smith's Farm and Ranch in Tuskegee, AL. He joins us to talk about growing up loving to farm, trying to find his way back to agriculture and the experiences that drove him to go organic. Rooted In Organic Podcast is sponsored by SoilBiotics and Byron Seeds.

On this edition of the ODPH, the panel sits down to discuss: - What went down this past weekend in the divisional round of the NFL Playoffs! And how do we think the Championship round is going to go? - Our reactions to what went down at UFC 297 this past Saturday! Plus the news that Kayla Harrison has signed with the UFC! - Plus the SHOCKING news that Monday Night Raw is going to Netflix, The Rock is on the board of directors. And OH BY THE WAY, the Royal Rumble is this weekend! We give our takes! All that and much more! For more ODPH Content, check out our website! For ODPH Social Media, here’s our directory! Sign up for the ODPH Patreon! THANK YOU TO OUR AMAZING PATRONS! Check out the ODPH Merch Store at TeePublic! ODPH Music provided by Brian Wolff For your NCBD reviews destination: https://nerdinitiative.com/comic-books/ Last but not least: https://nerdinitiative.com/contact/ All that and much more!

Send us a text#499  Tyler @JTyPatrick& James @SupermanRed_Kr rank the songs about/inspired by #Superman  #DCComics @DCOffical Make your own ranking Songs: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Q0vZnXe667UaDm-c0DOpo81ncW3ef_VHgich1wjXaJs/edit?usp=sharing   Ranking: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12PUyJp0eretVs9LTnGpTR3IEyuFgA3EL/view?usp=drive_link   For all things Krypton Report: https://linktr.ee/Kryptonreport   Our new TEE Public Store: http://tee.pub/lic/gJJ3wcW9NCE   Help keep Krypton from Exploding join the $1 a month Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kryptonreportpod

Follow Mr. Sunday Movies on instagram: here and twitter: here Follow Rob: here CONFESSIONS LIVE, 5PM 2ND DECEMBER: tickets Why The Long Face Solo Show - Melbourne: here Brisbane: here Follow Confessions: here Follow Sammy on instagram & threads: here patreon.com/confessionsthepodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Susan Rogers, author of This Is What It Sounds Like, offers insight into what different tastes in music reveal about personality. Plus, how parents and teens can connect more deeply by sharing and exploring music.  If you've enjoyed Talking to Teens, we'd love if you could leave us a five-star rating, and if you have time, a review! Full Show NotesMusic is deeply personal, especially for teenagers. In this episode, we’re exploring what your teen’s music taste says about them and how you can use music to connect more deeply.We’re joined by Susan Rogers, a cognitive neuroscientist, award-winning professor at Berklee College of Music, multi-platinum record producer, and author. With decades of experience in the music industry and a PhD researching music perception and cognition, Susan has rare insight into both the art and science of music.In our conversation, Susan explains that musical tastes are highly individualized, tapping into our inner psyche and self-image. Criticizing your teen’s music taste can feel like a personal attack to them. Instead, Susan suggests having a “record pull” where family members take turns playing music they love for each other. This allows everyone to glimpse into each other’s musical psyche.What Your Teen’s Taste RevealsWe discuss fascinating research Susan conducted asking people what visuals and memories they associate with their favorite music. Results showed the majority of people see autobiographical memories, allowing them to relive happy moments from their past. For teens, this often means music from when they were younger.Susan explains music activates the brain’s “default network” tied to our sense of self. So when teens listen to music they relate to, it becomes deeply enmeshed with their personal identity. Lyrics often take a backseat, Susan says, with musical qualities resonating more deeply.Using Music to ConnectWith the teenage brain still developing areas related to identity and self-perception, what teens believe their peers think of them becomes what they think of themselves. Susan suggests asking teens openly about their music, not to criticize their taste but to understand them better.Playing music you relate to for your teen can also help them understand you, glimpsing into your psyche. Susan proposes a “record pull” where family members share meaningful music with each other.Additional Topics:How streaming led to highly individualized musical tasteDance and musical style reflecting generational cultureProcessing lyrics versus musical qualitiesAreas of the teenage brain still under constructionFollow us on Social Media! We're @talkingtoteens on Instagram and TikTok

It's a bloody big old live show with the hilarious Genevieve Morris, Rosie Waterland and Olivia Molly Rogers. CONFESSIONS LIVE, 5PM 2ND DECEMBER: tickets Why The Long Face Solo Show, Melbourne: here Follow Confessions: here Follow Sammy on instagram & threads: here patreon.com/confessionsthepodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Sammy is joined by one of your favourite duos, Comedienne Stephen Hall and Dave Warneke.  CONFESSIONS LIVE, 5PM 2ND DECEMBER: tickets You can find Stephen at thestephenhall.com/ Find Dave Warneke on twitter/instagram: @DaveWarneke Follow Confessions: @confessionsthepodcast Follow Sammy on instagram & threads: @sampetersen91 patreon.com/confessionsthepodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Sammy is joined by the return of the great Mish Wittrup and first-time guest Jordan Barr! Live show 19th of August, 5pm at Comedy Republic: https://www.comedyrepublic.com.au/event/38:274 Follow Mish: @mishwittrup Follow Jordan: @jbarr_666 Follow Confessions: @confessionsthepodcast Follow Sammy on instagram: @sampetersen91 patreon.com/confessionsthepodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stressed, Depressed, Hot Mess devotional on Youversion. I felt the panic attack coming. Tightness in the chest. Check. Inability to focus. Check. Sweaty palms. Check. Heart rate up. Check. For those of you who’ve been there, you know that one of the worst feelings on the planet is when you’re in the midst of a panic attack. I’ve had more than a handful in my life. But, as I’ve dealt with my anxiety, I’ve realized this truth: Scripture has a way of defusing it. When I quote or read Scripture, especially during an attack, God calms me. The demons flee when they hear the Word of God. God’s Word, the Bible, calms the anxious heart and pulls the lowly spirit out of the depths of depression. It does more than that, though.The Bible is God’s voice. When we fall under God’s authority in all areas of our lives, God transforms us in ways unimaginable. God’s got a lot to say about that.Paul writes these words to his young protégé, Timothy, to remind him of the importance of Scripture: All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip His people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Paul wants Timothy to remember that God’s word is life-changing and useful for us to walk closely with Him. Many of us forget that Paul was referring not only to the letters written by his fellow disciples but the books of the Old Testament. From hundreds of prophecies fulfilled to archaeological evidence that science supports, the Bible has stood the test of time. Our job is to read it, study it, wrestle with it, and use it to transform our lives, especially as we deal with being stressed, depressed, or a hot mess.If you suffer from panic attacks, attack back: 1) Breathe. 2) Remind yourself that you’re not dying, that this is a panic attack. 3) Turn on some Christian music that you know has soothed you in the past. 4) Pray Scripture promises: Isaiah 41:10; Isaiah 43:1-2; John 8:36; Deuteronomy 31:8. 5) Picture that calm place in your mind, and breathe. fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 ESV But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. Isaiah 43:1‭-‬2 ESV So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. John 8:36 ESV teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28:20 ESV

The Bible has all things that we need for life and Godliness. So what exactly does that mean? ...and what doesn't it mean? Ian and Dan team up again to help us understand this vital topic in part 3 of our Faith Basics series on the podcast.

This is the first in a series called Faith Basics where other pastors join Dan Jarms to discuss topics that all believers should understand. In this episode we begin with the doctrines of scripture.The Bible claims to be “breathed out by God” in 2 Timothy 3:16-17. In this episode Dan and Ian discuss what that means and how it affects the way believers live.

This week Sammy is joined by the true host of the podcast, Rhi Down and first-timer, from Mix Taping Identity, Shane McMenemy. 5 Year Anniversary Live show, 10th February: https://www.comedyrepublic.com.au/event/38:115/38:214/ Follow Rhi: @rhidown Follow Mix Taping Identity: @mixtapingidentitySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Sammy is joined over zoom dot com by the hilarious Chris Ryan. 5 Year Anniversary Live show, 10th February: https://www.comedyrepublic.com.au/event/38:115/38:214/ Follow Chris: @christineryancomedy Follow Confessions: @confessionsthepodcast Follow Sammy on instagram: @sampetersen91 patreon.com/confessionsthepodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Foundations of Faith Day 1 What does it mean to be a Christian?We all have an idea of what being a Christian should look like. But if we’re being honest, our views are often influenced by our cultural values, our politics, our background, and what’s currently going on in the world around us. If we were to strip away all those outside influences, what would our faith actually look like?Cultures will change and values will shift, but God’s Word will always reveal the foundations of our beliefs. So starting today, we’ll take a closer look at some questions about God, the Holy Spirit, sin, and baptism and discover what the Bible tells us about each of them. But before we get started, keep in mind that the purpose of this Plan isn’t to argue for or against a particular denomination, doctrine, or philosophical position. The purpose is to provide clarity around some common Christian questions by rooting each day in Scripture and providing practical action steps. So to help us do this, we’re laying out four foundational statements that each day will automatically assume to be true. The God of the Bible is real, true, and perfect. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for correction and instruction. God’s Word is truth. We can turn to it for trustworthy answers to our questions. As followers of Jesus, we are called to worship God in Spirit and in truth. Basically, if we want to live Holy Spirit-empowered lives, then we need to have a clear understanding of what is true so that we can recognize the Spirit’s promptings. And to clearly understand what is true, we must turn to Scripture—the written documentation of God at work through humanity. By seeking God’s truth we gain a greater understanding of His character, which allows us to confidently walk in His Spirit. Action Step: To get the most out of this Plan, try processing each day with a friend, and use the daily content as a starting point for deeper conversations about what it means to know God and make Him known.

This week Sammy is joined by Michelle Brasier, Broden Kelly and Nick Mason as part of Stupid Old Studios podfest.   5 Year Anniversary Live show, 10th February: https://www.comedyrepublic.com.au/event/38:115/38:214/   Follow Michelle: @michellebraiser Follow Broden: @brodenkellyismyname Follow Nick on instagram: @nickmaseau or on twitter @wikipediabrown   Follow Confessions: @confessionsthepodcast Follow Sammy on instagram: @sampetersen91   patreon.com/confessionsthepodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

5 Year Anniversary Live show, 10th February: https://www.comedyrepublic.com.au/event/38:115/38:214/ Follow Alex: @aedyeson Follow Michelle: @michellebrasier Follow Confessions: @confessionsthepodcast Follow Sammy on instagram: @sampetersen91   patreon.com/confessionsthepodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Sammy is lucky enough to be joined by Wes Snelling and Nelly Thomas.   5 Year Anniversary Live show, 10th February: https://www.comedyrepublic.com.au/event/38:115/38:214/   Follow Nelly: @nellythomascomedian on instagram or https://www.nellythomas.com/ Follow Wes: @wessnelling   Follow Confessions: @confessionsthepodcast Follow Sammy on instagram: @sampetersen91   patreon.com/confessionsthepodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a text#396 Tyler(@JTyPatrick)& James(@SupermanRed_Kr)review the Death of Superman 30th Anniversary.   #Pennyworth #DCComics #Krypton #SUPERPETS  #SupermanAndLois #DCTITANS  For all things Krypton Report: https://linktr.ee/Kryptonreport Our new TEE Public Store: http://tee.pub/lic/gJJ3wcW9NCE Help keep Krypton from Exploding join the $1 a month Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kryptonreportpod

Remember Your First Love The beginning is always exciting, isn’t it? Even if taking a leap of faith also feels a little terrifying, there is still the anticipation of what’s to come that compels you forward with a little extra pep in your step. It can be tempting to reach for that new beginning feeling and abandon what you’re in the middle of because the middle just isn’t as exciting. Maybe it’s exhausting. Maybe it’s not going the way you imagined. Maybe you’ve gotten so caught up in the details of it that you have forgotten why you even started. It’s not possible to return to the beginning, but it is possible to return to the One who was with you in it and is the source of that joy and hope. More often than not, we grow weary because we’ve lost sight of Jesus, our First Love. We waver in our faithfulness. We are overtaken by our emotions. We get distracted. But Jesus never does. We may need to circle back to our commitments and try again, but the incredible thing about turning to Jesus is that it’s just like the first time because His love is constant. When you focus your attention on Him, you have the opportunity to be filled with the passion and motivation you need to continue. It might sound unproductive to stop and spend time in the presence of God, but Psalm 37:4 tells us that when we delight ourselves in the Lord, He will give us the desires of our hearts. This not only means that He will give us what we want, but He will give us the desire for what He wants. In other words, when we spend time with Him, we get the desire to keep going. He refreshes us. The Message version of Proverbs 16:9 says, “We plan the way we want to live, but only God makes us able to live it.” We can try outlining our own way to success, but He is the fuel that gets us there. Take a moment right now to pause and sit in the presence of God. Acknowledge Him for His faithfulness in light of your wavering. Thank Him for His perfect love, and ask Him to revive your heart. Continue to sit in His presence for a moment longer and listen to what He might be saying to you.

We Love Because He First Loved Us 1 John 4:19 We love because he first loved us. The most perplexing thing about God is not that He is omniscient, omnipresent or omnipotent. Since He is God, these virtues are somehow given or expected. Otherwise, He wouldn’t be known as God. The thing that is the hardest to comprehend is that though He is so powerful and almighty, He is also love! Through the tainted lenses of how we see our world, power and love don’t seem to jive. You cannot be powerful and loving at the same time. You must be either one. But our God is both. The extent of His love is fully expressed in the father’s unconditional love. Therefore, as children of God, we love because love comes from God. And we can love because He first loved us. Knowing this helps us understand that this love does not originate from us. It is not something birthed out of a desire within us, rather it is a new revelation of where this love comes from. Now that we know where this love comes from, we have a new responsibility. Because no one has seen God, loving people can become a way for people to see God, through us. So when we choose to love, others will see and experience God through us, knowing that God is living in us, and His love is made complete in us. Loving others is not an emotional decision. Rather, it is a spiritually convicted decision. It is now our duty of care as followers of Christ to show others this dimension of love. Remember, we love because He first loved us! Reflection: This love that we now have is one birthed out of the revelation of who God is. Armed with this truth, who do you want to love and how do you plan on doing that? Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister. 1 John 4:7‭-‬21 NIV

Satan knows not only where to get at us, but also how to get at us. That’s why we need to understand the method he uses to defeat and imprison us. In 2 Corinthians 10:3–5, Paul reveals the devil’s primary battle strategy: Though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. What Paul wants us to know first is that we can’t use secular or fleshly weapons to fight spiritual battles. The reason so many Christians are losing the battle is that they are trying to beat the devil using the world’s weapons. They’re looking to the secular world to help them with their spiritual need. If your problem, your struggle, your need is induced and orchestrated by your spiritual enemy, your flesh can’t win the fight. Unless you choose a spiritual response, all the time, effort, and resources you spend trying to fix the problem will ultimately be a waste of time, a Band-Aid on the situation. Paul says our methods are not of the flesh because our enemy is not of the flesh. Some of us have been wrestling with things day in and day out for years. Those are battles, no matter what other names we may give to them. And if God speaks to it, it is a spiritual battle. And if your battle is spiritual, it needs a spiritual cure. You don’t fight cancer with skin lotion. You don’t fight a brain tumor by taking aspirin and lying down. Those kinds of problems demand another kind of help. So do spiritual problems. The text we cited above tells us that Satan targets his attacks on our minds because Paul talks about “speculations,” “the knowledge of God,” and “taking every thought captive” (2 Cor. 10:5). Where do speculations come from? The mind. Where is knowledge rooted? In the mind. Where do thoughts come from? The mind. It is all in the mind. So, the Christian who wants to trade his or her spiritual POW status for freedom must learn to think differently. When Satan attacks a Christian’s mind, he starts building what Paul calls “fortresses” (“strongholds,” niv and kjv). The devil builds a place from which he can operate, and he means for that fortress to be permanent. He plans to take up residence there. Satan makes himself at home, in other words, and he gets a grip on the mind until people begin thinking there is no way to overcome this problem, no way to save this marriage, no way to unify this church, no way to make a difference in our world. Whenever you hear a Christian saying,“No way. It can’t be done. I’ve tried everything, and it just doesn’t work." A fortress or stronghold is a mindset that holds you hostage. It makes you believe that you are hopelessly locked in a situation, that you are powerless to change. That’s when you hear people saying, “I can’t, I can’t, I can’t.” The only reason you say, “I can’t,” when God says, “You can,” is that Satan has made himself at home in your head.

It is easy to make comparisons between the current state of our society and the ongoing narrative of Christianity being pushed out of the public square. Society has thrown out many of the Christian values which have woven the very fabric of humanity and decided to set up shop selling cheaply crafted morals. This has bled society dry of its heart. Crime is high, terrorism is rampant, suicide is normal and divorce recommended. You don’t need to be a Christian to agree that the future looks grim and seemingly hopeless (if it were to keep playing out the same way). It is essential we let society know that there is a large global remnant of Jesus followers, with a knowledge of societies founding values, a strong passion to ensure they are never forgotten, and a desire to believe for more in the future. More compassion, more humility, more kindness, more love, more hope and more of Jesus in society. Being a Jesus follower may push us to the edge, but we don’t have to be pushed out. Sure we may be in unusual and unique situations, feeling penned in by pressures to conform. Sure the costs associated with faith may rise, but this should not stop us from believing, sharing and declaring that hope is well and truly alive. In fact, our unwavering trust in Jesus, despite odds and opposition will itself declare loudly to a hopeless world that “Hope Still Lives Here!” John 8:12, reminds us that when we walk in the light of Jesus, that we ourselves will carry that life-giving light (the hope that others see). Let’s be beacons of love and safe havens of hospitality in a world void of true love and hospitality. Let’s be the rare smiles, meaningful conversations and long hugs to those used to angry faces, shallow conversation and cold shoulders. Let’s continue to live on mission and do all we can to show the world that hope still lives here, and His name is Jesus!

Would you say that yours is a holy life and that you are walking in obedience to God? If not, you may have yielded to some satanic attack, believed the devil’s lie, and given yourself over to him in some way. What may have seemed like an innocent temptation at first can eventually exert a viselike grip on you. Christians are to be under God’s control, but the enemy ultimately wants you under his influence, and he will do his best to destroy everything good in your life. Satan’s objectives are very clear, namely, to draw believers away from God and cheat the Lord out of the glory He deserves. As long as the devil is around, we will suffer his assaults, so the question is not how to avoid satanic attacks, but how to overcome them. Paul laid out the battle plan in the sixth chapter of Ephesians. First, we must identify the enemy (vv. 11–12); second, we are to dress in the full armor of God and stand firm (vv. 13–17). The next verse reveals the key to withstanding Satan’s attacks: we must appropriate the strength of the living God. How do we get His power into our lives, to be unleashed in any and every circumstance? There is only one way: by prayer (v. 18). It is through prayer that the Lord releases His energy, divine power, and protection, enabling us to live a godly, holy, and peaceful life regardless of our circumstances. It is only through prayer that our minds and spirits can discern what the average person cannot detect. Only through prayer can we sense forewarnings of Satan’s attacks, which can be aimed anywhere—finances, family, relationships, or health. The one thing Satan hates above all else is the believer who knows how to persist in prayer and claim the promises of God. The enemy has no defense against persevering prayer, which crushes his might and sends him running. On the other hand, when we do not pray, we set ourselves up for defeat. 11Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

Escape Room "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me." - John 6:38 An escape room is a game in which a team of players discovers clues, solves puzzles, and accomplishes tasks in a limited amount of time. If the game ends and you're still stuck inside, a staff member will enter the room to show you the clues you missed, walk you through the solution, and escort you safely outside, where you will then be free to leave. We're going to use the escape room as an analogy so let's God size it. Escape Room Challenge: Pay Sin Debt For All! Was Jesus willing? Yes! As we can see by our scripture verse, Jesus left Glory to do the will of the Father (Him who sent Me.) I've known a few people who have done escape rooms, but it's not for everyone. Even though people know full well, no harm will come to them, and if they panic, someone will come let them out. It sounds like a pretty safe thrill experience. But you rarely see lines outside of these places, and you may not even know where one is. Now think of this more like a scene from SAW, and there was no way out other than death. Jesus knew the path He was on and did so willingly. He didn't sulk. He didn't try to get out of it. He didn't try to convince someone else to take His place. He simply loved us enough to go to the cross and ultimately the grave for us. I love our scripture verse because it sets the bar for us to follow the will of God. If Jesus was going to be doing "the will of Him who sent Me," then so can we. Getting out of my subdivision takes a while due to traffic some days. But do you know what day it never takes time to get out? Sunday. Specifically, Sunday mornings for Church. There is no traffic on the highways and byways of America on Sunday mornings. Our Savior left glory to pay a sin debt He did not owe, but we struggle to get out of bed once a week to worship God. Let's show God that we are willing to do His will and thank Jesus for doing so as well. Uncommen Questions: Do you find it hard to do God's will? Do you pray about that? When was the last time you read the story of the events leading up and through Jesus dying on the cross? Uncommen Challenge: I challenge us all to be open to doing the will of God even when it's hard, just as Jesus did.

Escape Room "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me." - John 6:38 An escape room is a game in which a team of players discovers clues, solves puzzles, and accomplishes tasks in a limited amount of time. If the game ends and you're still stuck inside, a staff member will enter the room to show you the clues you missed, walk you through the solution, and escort you safely outside, where you will then be free to leave. We're going to use the escape room as an analogy so let's God size it. Escape Room Challenge: Pay Sin Debt For All! Was Jesus willing? Yes! As we can see by our scripture verse, Jesus left Glory to do the will of the Father (Him who sent Me.) I've known a few people who have done escape rooms, but it's not for everyone. Even though people know full well, no harm will come to them, and if they panic, someone will come let them out. It sounds like a pretty safe thrill experience. But you rarely see lines outside of these places, and you may not even know where one is. Now think of this more like a scene from SAW, and there was no way out other than death. Jesus knew the path He was on and did so willingly. He didn't sulk. He didn't try to get out of it. He didn't try to convince someone else to take His place. He simply loved us enough to go to the cross and ultimately the grave for us. I love our scripture verse because it sets the bar for us to follow the will of God. If Jesus was going to be doing "the will of Him who sent Me," then so can we. Getting out of my subdivision takes a while due to traffic some days. But do you know what day it never takes time to get out? Sunday. Specifically, Sunday mornings for Church. There is no traffic on the highways and byways of America on Sunday mornings. Our Savior left glory to pay a sin debt He did not owe, but we struggle to get out of bed once a week to worship God. Let's show God that we are willing to do His will and thank Jesus for doing so as well. Uncommen Questions: Do you find it hard to do God's will? Do you pray about that? When was the last time you read the story of the events leading up and through Jesus dying on the cross? Uncommen Challenge: I challenge us all to be open to doing the will of God even when it's hard, just as Jesus did.

Juice and smoothies are more than just drinks…they are a lifestyle. But should they be consumed with actual meals? That’s just one of the topics Kirk and Lindsey debate on this juice/smoothie episode, along with if juicing is really worth it, how awful grape juice is, which orange juice brand would you F, Marry, or Kill, are smoothies really just adult milkshakes, which fruit is the “flavor bully” in a smoothie, would either of them try a meat smoothie (yes, it’s a thing), and then Kirk tries to sell Lindsey on the concept of a salad smoothie. Will she go for it? Hosts: Kirk Pynchon & Lindsey Gentile Producer: Kirk Pynchon Theme song by: Kirk “Dad Beats” Pynchon Email us: [email protected] Follow us: instagram.com/thefoodfightpod Follow Lindsey: instagram.com/lindseygentile Follow F*ck You I’m Smarter: instagram.com/kellyandlindsey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“Radical Risk and Radical Reward” Jesus said to his followers, “Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” In this, Jesus clearly acknowledged that following him involves risking the safety, security, and satisfaction we look for in this world. But in the end, Jesus said, following him leads to a radical reward that the world can never offer. This challenge for the disciples to lose their lives came at the end of a startling speech he made to them, as told in Matthew 10. Sending the disciples into the world, Jesus outlined the risks they would have to undertake in following him. Go to need. Jesus told his disciples that they would be surrounded by great need. His instructions? “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons.” Just imagine the people that the disciples were going to encounter—the diseased, the dying, the despised, and the dangerous. Not exactly the most appealing groups to be around. And yet people like these are the very ones Jesus is sending us to as well. Go to danger. I can imagine the looks on the disciples’ faces when the next words came out of Jesus’ mouth: “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves.” Jesus was saying to his disciples then—and, by implication, to you and me now—“I am sending you to dangerous places, where you will find yourself in the middle of evil, vicious people. And you will be there by my design.” We don’t like to think this. We say such things as, “The safest place to be is in the center of God’s will.” But what if the center of God’s will is in reality the most unsafe place for us to be? Jesus followed his humbling call for his disciples to go to great need and great danger with overwhelming promises of his love and care for them. Three times he told them, “Do not be afraid.” Radical obedience to Christ does not lead to comfort, nor to health, nor to prosperity in this world. Radical obedience to Christ, in fact, risks losing all these things. But we need not fear. In obeying him, we can look ahead with hope and confidence. For in the end, the risks we take will find their reward in Christ. And he is more than enough for us. Do you believe the reward found in Jesus is worth the risk of following him? How will you live out that conviction? If you enjoyed the Radical YouVersion Reading Plan, check out the book Radical: Taking Back Your Faith From the American Dream by David Platt. For an opportunity to receive a complimentary book, please click here.

It's day 1 of 5 in our daily devotional called Radical by David Platt on youversion read by Andi and Brian Hale “The Shocking Truth About Following Jesus” At the end of Luke 9, we find a story about three men who approached Jesus, eager to follow him. In surprising fashion, though, Jesus seems to have tried to talk them out of doing so. The first guy said, “I will follow you wherever you go.” Jesus responded, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” In other words, Jesus told this man that he could expect homelessness on the journey ahead. Followers of Christ are not guaranteed that even their basic need of shelter will be met. The second man told Jesus that his father had just died. The man wanted to go back, bury his father, and then follow Jesus. Jesus replied, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” I remember distinctly when my own dad died, and I cannot imagine hearing these words from Jesus. A third man approached Jesus and told him that he wanted to follow him, but before he did, he wanted to say good-bye to his family. Jesus wouldn’t let him. He told the man, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” Plainly put, a relationship with Jesus requires total, superior, and exclusive devotion. Let’s put ourselves in the shoes of these would-be followers of Jesus in the first century. What if I were the potential disciple being told to become homeless? What if you were the one who was supposed to let someone else bury your dad? What if we were told that we couldn’t even say good-bye to our families? This is where we come face to face with a dangerous reality. We do have to give up everything we have to follow Jesus. We do have to love him in a way that supersedes our closest relationships in this world. For that’s what it means to live out the biblical gospel rather than our cultural assumptions of what it means to follow Jesus. Let us determine not to spend our lives on anything but radical abandonment to our Savior. What should you cut out of your life, starting today, if Jesus is your overriding priority?

The truth transforms us. The Spirit of God uses the Word of God to make us like the Son of God. We must abide in God's word, accept its authority, assimilate it's truth and apply it's principles. "If you continue in my word, then are you my disciples indeed; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:31-32

God wants to be your best friend. Friendship with God is possible only because of the grade of God and the sacrifice of Jesus. "Friendship with God is reserved for those who reverence Him." Psalm 25:14a

Before the moment you were conceived, you were planned for God's pleasure. Anything you do that brings pleasure to God is an act of worship. Worship is far more than music, but is is not for your benefit. Real worship is about falling in love with Jesus.