Hope Talks

Verbal and emotional abuse is often invisible and hard to detect, but its effects run deep. In this episode, Haley and Dustin discuss the impact and power of our words, and how abuse can shape our sense of worth, identity, and dignity. They explore what verbal and emotional abuse is — and what it isn’t — and discuss the types of verbal abuse found in Scripture as well as the subtle and not-so-subtle forms of emotional abuse. They also walk through what to do if you’ve experienced verbal and emotional abuse and steps to take if you’ve been the one who has hurt others with your words.

Whether you’ve been hurt or have hurt others, this episode provides biblical insights and practical steps to find healing and be changed by the power of God’s Word.

Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.

So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means

everything.

Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.

Listen in to learn more :

(05:55) The Impact of Verbal Abuse 

(18:36) Importance of Tone in Verbal Abuse 

(25:35) Recognizing and Fighting Verbal Abuse 

(34:46) Recognizing Verbal and Emotional Abuse 

(39:34) Speaking Truth With Responsibility 

(46:23) Healing Both Abuser and Abused 

(49:55) The Power of God's Healing 

(54:04) Sword of Healing and Harm (

(56:19) Addressing Verbal Abuse in Ministry 

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Hope for the Heart resources

Learn more and sign up for our fall Hope Together conference: https://hopetogether.com/ 

Order our newest resource, The Care and Counsel Handbook, providing biblical guidance  100 real-life issues: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/care-and-counsel-handbook

Free resource on Abuse Recovery: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/breaking-free-from-abuse-resource

Bible Study of Verbal & Emotional Abuse: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/store/product/bible-study-on-understanding-verbal-emotional-abuse 

Book on Verbal & Emotional Abuse: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/store/product/abuse-recovery 

Video course on Verbal & Emotional Abuse: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/store/product/abuse-recovery-video-course 

Connect with Hope for the Heart on social! 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 

Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night

God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/

Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

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Bible verses mentioned in this episode

James 3:3-10 — When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.

Heather MacFadyen, host of the widely loved Don’t Mom Alone podcast and the author of two books (Don’t Mom Alone and Right Where You Belong) joins us for an encouraging conversation on motherhood, grief, humility, and grace.

She shares her hope story of when God’s promises became precious to her when both her parents were battling cancer, her father passed away, and she was caring for her mother while raising four young sons. We also talk about the pressures moms face today – to both do it all yet find rest in the Lord. Heather offers a hopeful and grounded alternative, walking us through how to identify and fully occupy our God-given space.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about your purpose or discouraged in your current season of life, this conversation offers practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement.

Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.

So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.

Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.

Listen in to learn more :

(06:29) - Navigating Loss and Finding Hope

(11:42) - Navigating Motherhood With Grace

(18:34) - Mom Guilt, Shame, and Freedom

(26:13) - Trusting God's Assignment and Purpose

(36:57) - Trusting God to Occupy Your Space

(43:00) - Discovering God's Space

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Heather MacFadyen resources

Learn more about Heather MacFadyen: https://heathermacfadyen.com/

Get Heather’s book, Right Where You Belong: https://heathermacfadyen.com/rwyb/

Listen to the Don’t Mom Alone Podcast: https://heathermacfadyen.com/podcast-show/

Listen to Heather’s comedy podcast, Sidetracked:

--Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sidetracked/id1765742489

--Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1xM7stQVnmJIytN1k1X6Ry

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Hope for the Heart resources

Learn more and sign up for our fall Hope Together conference: https://hopetogether.com/ 

Connect with Hope for the Heart on social! 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 

Learn more about the ministry and resources of Hope for the Heart: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/ 

Learn more about Hope Talks and catch up on past episodes: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/hopetalks/ 

Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night

God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/

Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

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Bible verses mentioned in this episode

1 Corinthians 7:17 – “Nevertheless, each person should live as a believer in whatever situation the Lord has assigned to them, just as God has called them.”

Singleness often carries silent struggles—shame, embarrassment, loneliness, and questions about identity or purpose.

In this episode, Haley opens up about her own journey of navigating singleness throughout different seasons of her life. We discuss how culture and even the church can sometimes elevate marriage as the ultimate goal in life, but God calls each of us—single or married—to something greater. Together, we reflect on God’s ultimate purpose, priority, and plan for our lives, and how to navigate singleness with faith. 

We also talk about various misconceptions and experiences of singleness—whether you've never married, divorced, or widowed—and why it’s important to seek God’s guidance for your next step. This is a conversation of grace, honesty, and hope—for anyone navigating singleness or walking alongside someone who is.

Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.

So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.

Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.

Listen in to learn more :

(00:00) - Navigating Singleness With Hope

(12:35) - Misconceptions and Heart Reflections

(20:42) - Defining Purpose Beyond Roles and Expectations

(34:31) - Navigating Church Expectations for Singles

(47:05) - Nurturing Hope in Singleness and Marriage

(55:58) - Embracing Singleness With God's Purpose

(01:03:45) - Navigating Singleness and Marriage Realities

(01:11:28) - Finding Hope in Singleness and Marriage

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Hope for the Heart resources

Learn more and sign up for our fall Hope Together conference: https://hopetogether.com/ 

Connect with Hope for the Heart on social! 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 

Learn more about the ministry and resources of Hope for the Heart: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/ 

Learn more about Hope Talks and catch up on past episodes: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/hopetalks/ 

Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night

God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/

Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

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Bible verses mentioned in this episode

Psalm 37:4 – “Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”

Romans 8:29 – “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.”

Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

In this episode, Haley and Dustin have a thoughtful and compassionate look at depression — what it is, what it isn’t, and how we can understand it from both a biblical and whole-person perspective. They explore how people often describe depression, why it’s more than just sadness, and how the Bible speaks directly to those who feel overwhelmed, numb, or hopeless.

The conversation offers practical insights into how God’s Word provides comfort, guidance, and purpose in the midst of depression, and how discussing our struggles can be healing when done with the right intention. They also discuss the important difference between ruminating on our problems and processing them in healthy, redemptive ways. 

Whether you’re walking through depression yourself or want to better support someone who is, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and hope.

Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.

So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.

Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.

Listen in to learn more 

(08:57) - Defining Depression

(16:55) - Navigating the Depths of Depression

(21:12) - Embracing Joy Amidst Grief and Struggles

(32:17) - Navigating Processing vs Ruminating Depression

(38:17) - Finding Healing Through Scripture

(47:00) - Sharing Stories of Depression and Hope

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Hope for the Heart resources

Learn more and sign up for our fall Hope Together conference: https://hopetogether.com/ 

Connect with Hope for the Heart on social! 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 

Learn more about the ministry and resources of Hope for the Heart: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/ 

Learn more about Hope Talks and catch up on past episodes: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/hopetalks/ 

Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night

God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/

Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

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Bible verses mentioned in this episode

1 Kings 19:4–5 (Elijah) -- “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep. All at once, an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.”

Psalm 13:1-2 – How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart?”

Psalm 31:9-10 – “Be merciful to me, Lord, for I am in distress; my eyes grow weak with sorrow, my soul and body with grief. My life is consumed by anguish and my years by groaning; my strength fails because of my affliction, and my bones grow weak.”

Psalm 42:11 -- “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.”

Isaiah 53:3-4 – “He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted.”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

Revelation 21:4 – “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Are you running on empty?

In this episode, Haley and Dustin sit down with Dr. Eric Scalise, President of Hope for the Heart, to talk about one of the most pressing issues in our fast-paced culture: stress and burnout.

With more than 40 years of experience as a licensed counselor, Dr. Scalise brings both clinical insight and biblical wisdom to this important conversation. We unpack the difference between stress and burnout, how they impact your mind, body, and faith, and why stress seems more intense today than in past decades. We also explore how our thought patterns can intensify our stress, and share practical strategies and biblical insights for coping with and preventing burnout.

If you’re tired, overwhelmed, or feeling spiritually dry, this episode is for you. We also discuss the Hope Together Conference happening this fall – a time to pause, be refreshed, and be poured into by an encouraging, Christian community. See the link below for details.

Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.

So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.

Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.

Listen in to learn more 

(08:24) - Self-Care

(21:45) - Navigating Stress and Thought Patterns

(25:13) - Healthy Habits for Managing Stress

(31:41) - Returning to the Jesus Yoke

(43:00) - Hope Together Conference Vision

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Hope for the Heart resources

Learn more and sign up for our fall Hope Together conference: https://hopetogether.com/ 

Connect with Hope for the Heart on social! 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 

Learn more about the ministry and resources of Hope for the Heart: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/ 

Learn more about Hope Talks and catch up on past episodes: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/hopetalks/ 

Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night

God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/

Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

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Bible verses mentioned in this episode

Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”

Psalm 68:19 – “Praise the Lord; praise God our savior! For each day he carries us in his arms.”

Matthew 11:28 -- “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Hebrews 4:14-16 – “Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

Don’t put off listening to this episode!

Procrastination is often seen as humorous or harmless, but it can quietly impact our lives in significant ways.

We all do it—whether it’s delaying a project, avoiding a hard conversation, or putting off something we know God is calling us to do. But procrastination isn’t just about laziness.

In this episode, Haley and Dustin dig into what’s really going on beneath the surface and explore five key reasons why we procrastinate. They talk about what procrastination is (and isn’t), the internal and external consequences, and what the Bible says about diligence, obedience, and moving forward in faith.

If you’ve been stuck in a cycle of delay, this conversation will help you break free with grace and purpose.

Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.

So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means

everything.

Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.

Listen in to learn more 

(00:00) - Overcoming Procrastination for Hopeful Living

(08:15) - Exploring Causes and Solutions to Procrastination

(17:19) - Understanding the Roots of Procrastination

(23:59) - Identifying Procrastination Through Character Analysis

(29:39) - Empowering Overcoming Procrastination Through Faith

(41:35) - Handling Overloaded Schedules With Grace

(47:29) - Faith, Compassion, and Conviction

(57:24) - Prayer for Prompt Action and Guidance

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Hope for the Heart resources

Connect with Hope for the Heart on social! 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 

Learn more about the ministry and resources of Hope for the Heart: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/ 

Learn more about Hope Talks and catch up on past episodes: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/hopetalks/ 

Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night

God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/

Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

Sign up for our fall Hope Together conference: https://hopetogether.com/ 

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Bible verses mentioned in this episode

Proverbs 6:6–11 -- “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest. How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.”

Ecclesiastes 5:4 – “When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow.”

Ephesians 5:15–16 -- "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."

Colossians 3:23 -- "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord."

“I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.” (Psalm 77:11)

In this episode, Haley and Dustin explore the vital (and often overlooked) spiritual practice of remembering our past and spiritual heritage. 

From God’s mighty works to the faith of those who came before us, biblical remembrance is more than nostalgia—it’s a discipline that fuels present-day faith and worship, anchors our identity, and inspires hope for the future. But there’s also a danger in remembering the wrong way. The conversation dives into how unhealthy remembering can lead to regret, fear, or spiritual stagnation, and how to avoid it.

With Scripture, stories, and practical insights, this episode unpacks what it means to honor our spiritual heritage while moving forward with hope. You’ll walk away with clarity, conviction, and simple ways to remember the rich spiritual heritage that is yours in Christ.

Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.

So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.

Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.

Listen in to learn more :

(00:00) - Remembering Spiritual Heritage Through Generations

(13:32) - Reflecting on Heritage and Faithfulness

(21:34) - Remembering Faith Heritage for Hope

(35:02) - Moving Forward

(47:52) - Cultivating Hope Through Generational Faithfulness

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Hope for the Heart resources.

Connect with Hope for the Heart on social! 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 

Learn more about the ministry and resources of Hope for the Heart: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/ 

Learn more about Hope Talks and catch up on past episodes: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/hopetalks/ 

Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night

God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/

Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

Sign up for our fall Hope Together conference: https://hopetogether.com/ 

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Bible verses mentioned in this episode

Deuteronomy 8:11-14 -- Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God, failing to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am giving you this day. Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down, and when your herds and flocks grow large and your silver and gold increase and all you have is multiplied, then your heart will become proud and you will forget the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. 

Psalm 77:11-12 -- I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.”

Ecclesiastes 7:10 – “Do not say, ‘Why were the old days better than these?’ For it is not wise to ask such questions.”

Isaiah 43:18 – “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.”

Romans 15:4: “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.”

Philippians 3:13–14 – “But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

Hebrews 11:4 – “Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith.” (Heb 11.4)

In this episode, Haley and Dustin are joined by Kari Trent Stageberg, CEO of Strong Families and co-author of The Blessing, alongside her father, Dr. John Trent. Kari shares her powerful hope story of finding healing and restoration after leaving an abusive relationship – and how the love of God and His Word brought her through a journey of renewal and recovery.

Together, they explore the importance of healthy attachment, especially our attachment to Christ, and why it’s foundational for emotional and spiritual healing. Kari offers practical steps for overcoming lies, reclaiming your God-given value, and replacing negative thoughts with truth. They also discuss key principles from The Blessing and provide practical ways to bless and encourage others each day.

This is an encouraging and insightful conversation for anyone looking to heal from past pain.

Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.

So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.

Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.

Listen in to learn more :

(00:00) - Finding Hope in Challenging Times

(04:04) - Building Attachment

(08:07) - Healing and Rebuilding Healthy Attachments

(15:20) - Finding Closure and Healing Relationships

(21:00) - Shifting the Narrative of Self-Worth

(26:05) - Finding Value and Healing Past Mistakes

(35:22) - Embracing God's Delight and Attachment

(44:27) - Practicing Blessing in Daily Life

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Resources from Kari Trent Stageberg

Learn more about Kari Trent Stageberg: https://www.karitrentstageberg.com/

Get a copy of the book, The Blessing: https://tinyurl.com/58v5ukac

Get a copy of Kari’s book, The Merge for Marriage: https://tinyurl.com/2x4bvjtx

Learn more about Kari’s life coaching: https://camelbacklifecoaching.com/

See Kari’s Christian Life Coaching courses with ICCI: https://iccicoaching.com/mentoring/kari-trent/

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Hope for the Heart resources.

Learn about our summer event on Mental Health and the Church: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/mental-health-and-the-church

Connect with Hope for the Heart on social! 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 

Learn more about the ministry and resources of Hope for the Heart: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/ 

Learn more about Hope Talks and catch up on past episodes: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/hopetalks/ 

Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night

God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/

Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

Sign up for our fall Hope Together conference: https://hopetogether.com/ 

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Bible verses mentioned in this episode

Psalm 103:12 – “as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”

Isaiah 43:1 – “But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.”

Luke 15:10 – “Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

John 18:18 & 21:9 -- Now the servants and officers had made a charcoal fire, because it was cold, and they were standing and warming themselves. Peter was also with them, standing and warming himself. …. When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire in place, with fish laid out on it, and bread.

Hebrews 13:5 – “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

In this episode, Haley and Dustin are joined by Mark Batterson, pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D.C., and bestselling author of numerous books, including A Million Little Miracles. Mark shares his personal hope story of being miraculously healed from lifelong asthma – an incredible testimony of God’s power and grace.

They dive into the core themes of A Million Little Miracles, exploring how God is “bigger than big, closer than close, and gooder than good.” With Mark’s signature mix of humor, insight, and biblical depth, this conversation highlights the wonder of God’s character and the countless ways He shows up in our everyday lives.

Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.

So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.

Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.

Listen in to learn more :

(00:00) - Finding Hope Through Faith and Miracles

(12:12) - Embracing Faith Beyond Prayer Limits

(18:02) - Cultivating Wonder Through Holy Curiosity

(23:50) - Expanding Faith Beyond Logical Constraints

(34:23) - Exploring God's Playful and Loving Nature

(48:47) - Gratitude and Blessings for Mark

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Resources from Mark Batterson

Learn more about Mark Batterson: https://www.markbatterson.com/

Get a copy of Mark’s book, A Million Little Miracles: https://tinyurl.com/4am7zrt2

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Hope for the Heart resources

Learn about our summer event on Mental Health and the Church: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/mental-health-and-the-church

Connect with Hope for the Heart on social! 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 

Learn more about the ministry and resources of Hope for the Heart: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/ 

Learn more about Hope Talks and catch up on past episodes: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/hopetalks/ 

Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night

God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/

Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

Sign up for our fall Hope Together conference: https://hopetogether.com/ 

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Bible verses mentioned in this episode

Psalm 8:5 – “You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor.”

Psalm 56:8 – “You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book.”

Isaiah 49:16 – “See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.”

Zechariah 4:10 – “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin”

Romans 5:7-8 – “Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. 8But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

In this episode, Haley and Dustin are joined by Major General Bob Dees, retired U.S. Army General and President of the National Center for Healthy Veterans. General Dees shares his powerful hope story of walking through the heartbreaking loss of his child and how he and his wife found comfort and healing through the love and support of the body of Christ.

Together, they explore the critical life skill of resilience—what it is, why it matters, and how we can develop it, especially in the face of life’s trials. General Dees also shares stories about the meaningful work being done at the National Center for Healthy Veterans and why caring for our veterans is more vital than ever.

This is a rich and heartfelt conversation on hope, resilience, and service. Whether you're facing a personal challenge or want to better support others, you’ll be encouraged and inspired by this episode.

Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.

So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.

Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.

Listen in to learn more 

(02:31) Power of Resilience and Partnership 

(09:58) The Importance of Resilience and Connection 

(14:49) The Concept of Resilience (70 Seconds)

(22:07) Teaching Resilience and Life Lessons 

(27:28) The Impact of Trauma on Hope 

(45:53) Supporting Veterans and Building Resilience 

(53:20) Empowering Veterans for Future Success

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Resources from General Dees & The National Center for Healthy Veterans

Learn more about the National Center for Healthy Veterans: https://healthyveterans.org/

Refer a veteran to the National Center for Healthy Veterans: https://healthyveterans.org/give-help/#refer

Explore Gen. Dees’ Resilience Coaching Courses here: https://iccicoaching.com/mentoring/gen-bob-dees/

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Hope for the Heart resources:

Learn about our summer event on Mental Health and the Church: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/mental-health-and-the-church

Connect with Hope for the Heart on social! 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 

Learn more about the ministry and resources of Hope for the Heart: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/ 

Learn more about Hope Talks and catch up on past episodes: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/hopetalks/ 

Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night

God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/

Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

Sign up for our fall Hope Together conference: https://hopetogether.com/ 

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Bible verses mentioned in this episode

Proverbs 3:5-6 -- Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 13:12 – “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.”

John 16:33 -- “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Romans 5:3-5 -- “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”