Eeyore is the king of gloomy, and so, this episode (the gloomiest of all episodes) is named after him. BUT, don't let that title detract you from listening! There is still hope & the ship will turn around (thanks be to God)! Also, as a bonus, Eric invents a new word! Even in our gloomy and dark times, we still have hope when we fix our eyes on Christ Jesus!!!

Special guest, Pastor Ben Unseth, joins the conversation as the boys discuss good preaching vs. bad preaching. Should a preacher always also be a pastor? Should every pastor be a preacher? Listen in as the Word of God helps us understand the dynamics of skills and gifts within the Body of Christ.

Has James reached the completion of his bucket list? Will Eric embark on a camping expedition, or will glamping be the epitome of his future adventures? It's also super fun to see the creativity and the humor of God - the things that cause us to laugh...the things that bring us joy...these are all good gifts from Him.

Will Eric finally announce the show? Or, will it be a classic standoff? I suppose this cliffhanger will compel you to click, "play" and you will find out the answer! Eric and James also explore a little rapture PTSD and wrap up the conversation around the majesty and awe of our LORD and Savior, Jesus.

Eric is back after a lovely vacation.

The discussion today centers on the concept of awe and wonder and the giftings of the individual.

A little conviction emerges as a sobering reminder that we are to be held accountable to one another. That accountability should be to help keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, rather than watching others with the "gift" of criticisim.

The most hodgepodgey episode yet!

Eric is still on vacation (but makes a guest appearance via Bluetooth).

The self-proclaimed #1 fan of HPT also has his cameo appearance for a 2nd time.

The heart of the conversation is with James and guest co-host, Pastor Jesse Orttel from Good News Community Church in Okoboji, IA. Jesse shares the great concept of failing faster.

Eric is traveling & James brings in a guest co-host (the legendary Sean Sherrod).

Sean is a planner. James is not. The two friends discuss the differences and the joy that can be found in either approach to life.

Ultimately, the conversation drives us to the purpose God has given each of us in our daily journey as we pursue Him.

When it comes to your choices, how important is the opinion of everyone else? Paul asks, "Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people?" (Galatians 1:10 NIV)

A depth of maturity can be observed and experienced when we no longer worry ourselves with what other people think. Do everything for the glory of God!

On a side-note, James shares his skills of coffee identification based on global region.

Cue the dramatic music. Allow the question to hang in the air like a good mystery just before the answer is revealed... James presents the question to Eric, "Is this the peak episode?" Meaning, have we run our course?

In addition to that mild dramatic rabbit hole, Eric and James also discuss accolades within the context of worship and preaching. What is appropriate? What is not?

With technology in our hands (including all of our personal and financial information), we have a global awareness as well as exposure to greater opportunitites to be preyed upon.

How do we cope with stress and worry in light of our expanded awareness?

Does God care for us in the craziness of our busy lives? Or should we fend for ourselves?

Let us live out our faith by seeking His kingdom first.