The Session: The Impact of Media on America Part 3

The Session: The Importance of Dad in the Home

The Session: The Importance of Dad in the Home - a Collection of Tom’s View on Dads Luke 22:41-44: "He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, 'Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.' An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground."  From Manhood Journey * The biblical role of a father extends beyond biology, including stepdads, mentors, and spiritual leaders who invest in others’ lives. * Scripture calls fathers to lead spiritually, model Christlike love, and be encouragers in both words and actions. From Focus on the Family The Significance of a Father’s Influence Our culture seems to place little value on the role of fathers. I see evidence of this everywhere, from pop culture and media to government policy.   Dads bring positive benefits to their children that no other person is as likely to bring. They provide protection and economic support and male role models. They have a parenting style that is significantly different from that of a mother and that difference is important in healthy child development. David Popenoe, Life Without Father,   Dads tend to stress rules, justice, fairness, and duty in discipline. In this way, they teach children the objectivity and consequences of right and wrong. They give kids insight into the world of men. 82% of studies on father involvement and child well-being published since 1980 found “significant associations between positive father involvement and offspring well-being…” Paul R. Amato and Fernando Rivera, “Paternal Involvement and Children’s Behavior Problems,” Journal of Marriage and the Family 61 (1999): In an analysis of over 100 studies on parent-child relationships, it was found that having a loving and nurturing father was as important for a child’s happiness, well-being, and social and academic success as having a loving and nurturing mother.  Kyle D. Pruett, Fatherneed: Why Father Care is as Essential as Mother Care for Your Child, Dr. Pruett states, “positive father care is associated with more pro-social and positive moral behavior in boys and girls.” Pruett, 2000, p. 52. This is borne out by research from the University of Pennsylvania which indicates that children who feel a closeness and warmth with their father are twice as likely to enter college, 75 percent less likely to have a child in their teen years, 80 percent less likely to be incarcerated and half as likely to show various signs of depression. A devotional podcast for parents on the go! Encouragement, Scripture, & prayer in just 7 minutes. Join the journey! To reach Tom Russell, visit his website at https://www.heritagechristiancounselingofmansfield.com or email Tom at tom.hccm@gmail.com

The Session: Defeating Alzheimer’s

The Session: Defeating Alzheimer’s (from Defeating Dementia, by Dr. Furman) I Corinthians 6:19-20, "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies." Start with the name. How did we come to calling it Alzheimer’s? 7.4 million adults suffer from Alzheimer’s Jan’s story The Notebook with James Gardner Those who suffer from Alzheimer’s lose: * memories * fellowship with God * childhood  * loss of marriage  * memories of dating * valuable relationships  Millennials * have parents and grandparents that may be showing symptoms of Alzheimer’s  Symptoms  * losing car keys * getting your cell phone out but forget why * calling someone and forgetting why * driving somewhere that you frequently go to and forgetting how to get there Historically it was believed that Alzheimer’s was inherited.  * 2 Genes showed evidence that made it appear to be inherited. Beta Amyloid and long protein * Genes are only 5% responsible  3 Healthy Preventions of Alzheimer’s  * Healthy eating vs. bad eating * Healthy eating was 40% less likely to get Alzheimer’s * Exercise vs. not those who exercise were 48% less likely to get Alzheimer’s  * Those who ate well and exercised were 67% less likely to get Alzheimer’s than those who did not do both  * Weight those who were overweight doubled their chances of Alzheimer’s. Those who were obese increase their odds 3xs Health of the arteries is vital for blood flow to the brain  Taking care of the heart is taking care of the brain Weight health effects our immune health A devotional podcast for parents on the go! Encouragement, Scripture, & prayer in just 7 minutes. Join the journey! To reach Tom Russell, visit his website at https://www.heritagechristiancounselingofmansfield.com or email Tom at tom.hccm@gmail.com

The Session: Faith of our Founding Fathers Part 2

The Session: Faith of our Founding Fathers You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you." Psalm 128:2 [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20128:2&version=ESV&src=tools] Patrick Henry  * Famous for “ Give me Liberty or give me death” * He was a member of The House of Burgesses  * First Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia * The Commonwealth of Virginia traces its roots back to the church of England, which was predominantly a Christian church * Said, “There is a just God who presides over the destinies of nations.” * “An appeal to arms and to the God of Hosts is all that is left us.” o   “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians… not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.” John Jay * First chief justice of the Supreme Court * President of the American Bible Society, in 1816 * He strongly advocated for our country to have Christians in public office  o   In a 1816 letter, Jay explicitly connected national well-being with Christian leadership:  “Providence has given to our people the choice of their rulers, and it is the duty, as well as the privilege and interest of our Christian nation, to select and prefer Christians for their rulers.” o   “The best of all possible worlds depend on the general diffusion of the Bible.” Samuel Adams * Often referred to as the "Father of the American Revolution," he was a staunchly Calvinist, practicing Christian who viewed the revolution as a defense of Christian liberties * Said, “Religion and good morals are the only solid foundations of public liberty and happiness.” * While Gov. of Mass. in 1795, Adams said this in a Thanksgiving proclamation:  “It is therefore recommended… to set apart a day for solemn thanksgiving and praise, that with one heart and one voice the good people may express the grateful feelings of their hearts… and also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations.” Benjamin Rush * A signer of the Declaration of Independence, a physician, and a civic leader. He uniquely blended Enlightenment thinking with traditional faith, even advocating heavily for the use of the Bible in public schools. * An active Presbyterian, Rush wrote, “The only foundation for a useful education in a republic is to be laid in religion. Without this there can be no virtue, and without virtue there can be no liberty.” * He also advocated Bible-centered learning:  “The Bible… should be read in our schools in preference to all other books.” * Also said, “Christianity is the only true and perfect religion… and… it is friendly to liberty and the rights of mankind.” Rev. John Witherspoon * An ordained Presbyterian minister and president of Princeton Univ., who signed the Declaration of Independence. He was the only clergyman to sign the declaration. * In a 1776 sermon, he said, “He is the best friend to American liberty who is most sincere and active in promoting true religion.” George Washington * The Commander of the Continental Army and the first U.S. President maintained a lifelong affiliation with the Anglican (Episcopalian) church. Throughout his writings, he frequently credited "divine Providence" for the nation's survival and success * He was shot four times in the French and Indian war and the bullets went through his coat, but never hit him * Two horses were shot out from under him. * His hat was also struck by enemy fire * He wrote to his brother after the chaotic battle, and said that he only survived because of Divine Providence * He was first to sign The Constitution of the United States of America * Washington said, “It is impossible to govern the world without God and the Bible.” Thomas Jefferson           Said, “I am a real Christian, that is to say, a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus.” Benjamin Franklin           Said, “I believe in one God, Creator of the Universe. That He governs it by His Providence.”   Faith in the Founding of Ohio * Christian faith was a foundational pillar of Ohio’s early settlement, providing structure, community, and moral direction for the pioneers carving communities out of the frontier. * As white pioneers moved into the territory, they faced significant hardships, and the church quickly became the central hub for stabilizing community life.  * Methodism emphasized a personal, practical Christian experience that resonated deeply with frontier farmers and eventually outpaced other Christian groups in the state.  * Manasseh Cutler-Minister, Congregational minister, scientist and political leader, who helped draft the Northwest Ordinance of 1787.  Secured provisions for public education, religious freedom, and a ban on slavery in the territory. * He said, “The Divine counsels… give us just ground to believe that one great end God had in view in the discovery of this American Continent… was that a new Empire should be called into being.” * Also, “It is not possible… that human laws… can be adequate substitutes for religion… Freedom… cannot be enjoyed without virtue, nor can virtue be maintained without religion.” * Rufus Putnam, known as the “Father of Ohio”.  Founded Marietta in 1788, the first permanent American settlement in Ohio.  He helped design and fund a Congregational church in Marietta, and helped form a Bible Society. * Edward Tiffin, Ohio’s first governor, was a Methodist pastor and politician.  He often preached while in office. * He believed in evangelism:  “The situation of the Indians… might be considerably ameliorated by the propagation of Christianity among their various nations… the blessings of Christianity [should] be propagated among the heathen.” * Thomas Worthington, major advocate for Ohio statehood.  US senator, later Ohio governor.  Served as vice president of the American Bible Society.  Helped write Ohio’s constitution, which says it is the right of all people to, “worship Almighty God according to the dictates of conscience” * His family helped establish Methodist worship spaces. Influence on Education and Society * Early Ohioans did not just form congregations; Christian faith heavily influenced early education and community outreach. Many of Ohio's historical colleges and learning institutions were founded by Christian denominations. CNN does not promote the idea that George Washington was an evangelical or traditional Christian in the modern sense. Instead, network coverage and analysis on the topic typically point out that many historians dispute the claim that the US was founded as a Christian nation, and note that Washington's actual religious beliefs were more aligned with 18th-century Deism. They did post how they believe President Trump dissed George Washington A devotional podcast for parents on the go! Encouragement, Scripture, & prayer in just 7 minutes. Join the journey! To reach Tom Russell, visit his website at https://www.heritagechristiancounselingofmansfield.com or email Tom at tom.hccm@gmail.com

The Session: Faith of our Founding Fathers Part 1

The Session: Faith of our Founding Fathers You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you." Psalm 128:2 [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20128:2&version=ESV&src=tools] Patrick Henry  * Famous for “ Give me Liberty or give me death” * He was a member of The House of Burgesses  * First Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia * The Commonwealth of Virginia traces its roots back to the church of England, which was predominantly a Christian church * Said, “There is a just God who presides over the destinies of nations.” * “An appeal to arms and to the God of Hosts is all that is left us.” o   “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians… not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.” John Jay * First chief justice of the Supreme Court * President of the American Bible Society, in 1816 * He strongly advocated for our country to have Christians in public office  o   In a 1816 letter, Jay explicitly connected national well-being with Christian leadership:  “Providence has given to our people the choice of their rulers, and it is the duty, as well as the privilege and interest of our Christian nation, to select and prefer Christians for their rulers.” o   “The best of all possible worlds depend on the general diffusion of the Bible.” Samuel Adams * Often referred to as the "Father of the American Revolution," he was a staunchly Calvinist, practicing Christian who viewed the revolution as a defense of Christian liberties * Said, “Religion and good morals are the only solid foundations of public liberty and happiness.” * While Gov. of Mass. in 1795, Adams said this in a Thanksgiving proclamation:  “It is therefore recommended… to set apart a day for solemn thanksgiving and praise, that with one heart and one voice the good people may express the grateful feelings of their hearts… and also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations.” Benjamin Rush * A signer of the Declaration of Independence, a physician, and a civic leader. He uniquely blended Enlightenment thinking with traditional faith, even advocating heavily for the use of the Bible in public schools. * An active Presbyterian, Rush wrote, “The only foundation for a useful education in a republic is to be laid in religion. Without this there can be no virtue, and without virtue there can be no liberty.” * He also advocated Bible-centered learning:  “The Bible… should be read in our schools in preference to all other books.” * Also said, “Christianity is the only true and perfect religion… and… it is friendly to liberty and the rights of mankind.” Rev. John Witherspoon * An ordained Presbyterian minister and president of Princeton Univ., who signed the Declaration of Independence. He was the only clergyman to sign the declaration. * In a 1776 sermon, he said, “He is the best friend to American liberty who is most sincere and active in promoting true religion.” George Washington * The Commander of the Continental Army and the first U.S. President maintained a lifelong affiliation with the Anglican (Episcopalian) church. Throughout his writings, he frequently credited "divine Providence" for the nation's survival and success * He was shot four times in the French and Indian war and the bullets went through his coat, but never hit him * Two horses were shot out from under him. * His hat was also struck by enemy fire * He wrote to his brother after the chaotic battle, and said that he only survived because of Divine Providence * He was first to sign The Constitution of the United States of America * Washington said, “It is impossible to govern the world without God and the Bible.” Thomas Jefferson           Said, “I am a real Christian, that is to say, a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus.” Benjamin Franklin           Said, “I believe in one God, Creator of the Universe. That He governs it by His Providence.”   Faith in the Founding of Ohio * Christian faith was a foundational pillar of Ohio’s early settlement, providing structure, community, and moral direction for the pioneers carving communities out of the frontier. * As white pioneers moved into the territory, they faced significant hardships, and the church quickly became the central hub for stabilizing community life.  * Methodism emphasized a personal, practical Christian experience that resonated deeply with frontier farmers and eventually outpaced other Christian groups in the state.  * Manasseh Cutler-Minister, Congregational minister, scientist and political leader, who helped draft the Northwest Ordinance of 1787.  Secured provisions for public education, religious freedom, and a ban on slavery in the territory. * He said, “The Divine counsels… give us just ground to believe that one great end God had in view in the discovery of this American Continent… was that a new Empire should be called into being.” * Also, “It is not possible… that human laws… can be adequate substitutes for religion… Freedom… cannot be enjoyed without virtue, nor can virtue be maintained without religion.” * Rufus Putnam, known as the “Father of Ohio”.  Founded Marietta in 1788, the first permanent American settlement in Ohio.  He helped design and fund a Congregational church in Marietta, and helped form a Bible Society. * Edward Tiffin, Ohio’s first governor, was a Methodist pastor and politician.  He often preached while in office. * He believed in evangelism:  “The situation of the Indians… might be considerably ameliorated by the propagation of Christianity among their various nations… the blessings of Christianity [should] be propagated among the heathen.” * Thomas Worthington, major advocate for Ohio statehood.  US senator, later Ohio governor.  Served as vice president of the American Bible Society.  Helped write Ohio’s constitution, which says it is the right of all people to, “worship Almighty God according to the dictates of conscience” * His family helped establish Methodist worship spaces. Influence on Education and Society * Early Ohioans did not just form congregations; Christian faith heavily influenced early education and community outreach. Many of Ohio's historical colleges and learning institutions were founded by Christian denominations. CNN does not promote the idea that George Washington was an evangelical or traditional Christian in the modern sense. Instead, network coverage and analysis on the topic typically point out that many historians dispute the claim that the US was founded as a Christian nation, and note that Washington's actual religious beliefs were more aligned with 18th-century Deism. They did post how they believe President Trump dissed George Washington A devotional podcast for parents on the go! Encouragement, Scripture, & prayer in just 7 minutes. Join the journey! To reach Tom Russell, visit his website at https://www.heritagechristiancounselingofmansfield.com or email Tom at tom.hccm@gmail.com

The Session: The Impact of Media on America Part 3

The Session: The Impact of Media on America We Set out to Examine What Impacts the World View of Americans Today Matthew 5:14-16  "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. The Impact of National News on Society * Controversy and Media: Some critics, such as those from the Media Research Center, argue mainstream media overlooks or negatively covers "passionate Christian enthusiasm" while focusing on controversies. (SCOTT: IF IT BLEEDS IT LEADS) Disclaimer: This summary is based on search results and reflects a range of studies and perspectives on the impact of Christian-oriented news, media, and ideological views in the United States. * National news in America profoundly shapes public opinion, drives political polarization, and impacts mental health, with over 50% of adults believing it misinforms them. While it highlights national issues, it often triggers anxiety through negative coverage and fosters "us vs. them" mentalities that hinder political.  Key Impacts of National News on America: * Polarization and Distrust: National news often intensifies political divides, with viewers of slanted, partisan media (e.g., Fox News) often having warped perceptions of opposing viewpoints and key issues like inflation or crime. (FROM SCOTT:  REALLY?  JUST FOX NEWS?  ABC, CNN AREN’T SLANTED & POLITICAL?)  Only 23% of Americans believe national news organizations care about their audience's best interests.  (FROM SCOTT:  THEY DON’T CARE ABOUT THE AUDIENCE’S BEST INTEREST.  THEY CARE ABOUT MAKING MONEY FOR STOCKHOLDERS & SERVING THEIR POLITICAL BENT) * Mental Health Consequences: Consistent exposure to negative news, which dominates headlines (especially in politics), can spark "fight or flight" responses, increasing anxiety and depression. A devotional podcast for parents on the go! Encouragement, Scripture, & prayer in just 7 minutes. Join the journey! To reach Tom Russell, visit his website at https://www.heritagechristiancounselingofmansfield.com or email Tom at tom.hccm@gmail.com