On this episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast, the crew explores how Christians can hold on to hope amid political upheaval, war, and societal disillusionment. The conversation covers the importance of slowing down, engaging with creation, and finding peace in God's sovereignty, especially through Scripture and prayer.

keywords

Christian hope, societal upheaval, spiritual disciplines, creation, Psalm 46, space and God, literature, art, prayer, peace in Christ

key topics

Holding onto hope amidst societal upheaval

The spiritual discipline of slowing down and paying attention

Creation as a testimony to God's glory

The role of literature and art in revealing truth

Finding peace through Scripture and prayer

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: Hope in Society's Turmoil

01:58 The Numbness and Distraction of Modern Politics

06:47 The Christian Call to Be Informed and Hopeful

10:23 Psalm 46: God's Sovereign Power in Chaos

15:06 Space as a Reflection of God's Glory and Love

20:50 The Importance of Slowing Down and Paying Attention

26:45 Literature, Art, and the Reflection of God's Truth

32:46 Redemptive Literature and the Search for Meaning

37:19 Conclusion: Trusting in God's Peace and Sovereignty

resources

Psalm 46 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+46&version=ESV

Leo Tolstoy's Confession - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Leo+Tolstoy+Confession

Gustave Flaubert's Madame Bovary - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Madame+Bovary