This week, a new mini-series begins on Resident Strangers. Over the next eight weeks, Steve, Rich, and Sarah will explore some of the most searched and challenging topics people are asking about online, approaching each one through the lens of Scripture. Each topic will be covered over two weeks, and our hope is that this series will both encourage and challenge us as we head into the summer.

To begin, the team tackles a difficult and deeply sensitive subject: suicide. Steve, Rich, and Sarah approach this conversation with great care, recognizing the weight and complexity surrounding it. In recent years, suicide rates and struggles with despair have become an increasing concern for many. Steve shares thoughts and statistics while reflecting on the lingering sense of hopelessness some have experienced since 2020.

Rich also shares a deeply personal story about losing a friend from his church community to suicide in the 1990s. His emotion is evident as the pain of that loss remains very real, and together the team acknowledges the unique and layered grief that accompanies death by suicide.

The conversation also turns toward spiritual realities, as Steve speaks about the reality of spiritual warfare and the importance of taking every thought captive, especially in seasons of struggle. Throughout the discussion, one message remains clear: leaning on the Lord, grounding ourselves in His Word, and staying connected to His people is vital. We invite you to join us again next week as the conversation continues, and Scripture is examined more closely in relation to this important topic.

Text or call 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Ryan Risselman's testimony on The Stories Collective podcast, Episode 53

*available wherever you listen to podcasts

Care & Support ministries at Desert Springs (local counselor referrals at the bottom of the page)

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