Anxiety is something nearly everyone faces — but few know how to navigate it with clarity, faith, and peace.

In this episode of The Truth Response, Derek is joined by Shaleza and Shaelyn for an honest, multi-generational conversation about anxiety, fear, control, and the search for peace in a chaotic world. From school stress and uncertainty about the future, to medication, generational trauma, and surrendering control to God, this episode dives deep into what anxiety really is — and how faith can transform how we respond to it.

We explore:

• What anxiety looks like across different generations
• How fear and uncertainty fuel anxious thinking
• The difference between reacting in anxiety and acting in peace
• Why anxiety is often a symptom, not the root issue
• Faith-based tools for grounding yourself when anxiety hits
• The tension between truth, compassion, and speaking in love

This conversation is raw, thoughtful, and grounded in Scripture — reminding us that peace isn’t the absence of anxiety, but learning how to walk through it with God.

📖 Key Scripture Referenced:

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7

Whether you’re struggling with anxiety yourself, walking alongside someone who is, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of peace through faith, this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen, reflect, and join the conversation.

This podcast episode addresses the decision to postpone the release of an episode pertaining to the theme of mourning during the holiday season. We were advised by a significant individual, who plays a crucial role in promoting our podcast and assisting individuals in navigating their grief, that the timing for such a discussion was inappropriate. Given the sensitive nature of the topic and the circumstances surrounding those they support, we deemed it prudent to defer the episode until after the new year. We acknowledge the importance of this subject matter and are committed to treating it with the respect and sensitivity it warrants. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to sharing new content with you next week.

Takeaways:

• The episode was initially intended to address mourning during the holiday season.
• We decided to postpone the release of the episode due to important feedback received.
• A significant individual advised against releasing the episode at this particular time.
• The intention is to support those who are currently dealing with loss and mourning.
• We are committed to providing content that is sensitive to the listener's needs.
• A new episode will be released next week, maintaining our regular scheduling.

If you’ve ever opened the Book of Acts and thought, “What is even happening right now?” — you’re not alone. In this episode, we break down the most confusing parts of Acts with honesty, humor, and real-life stories. From chaotic missionary journeys to Paul’s dramatic conversion to the wild moments of Pentecost, we dig into why this book feels overwhelming—and why it’s also one of the most important books in the Bible.

We also talk discipleship, mentorship, and how the early church navigated culture, conflict, and calling—issues we still deal with today. Dalton joins us to share what it’s like living out his faith in school, how people respond, and why young believers play a bigger role in the church than they realize.

Since it’s Thanksgiving week, we wrap up with what we’re grateful for, how God shapes us through everyday moments (including puppies), and why gratitude is a spiritual practice we desperately need.

If you want a down-to-earth conversation about Acts, faith, and real Christian life—this one’s for you.

Suggested Segment Markers:

• Intro chaos, Thanksgiving greetings, student listeners
• “What’s the most confusing part of the Bible?”
• Why Acts feels chaotic (Paul, Peter, Barnabas, Luke, etc.)
• Breaking down the missionary journeys
• Paul’s conversion and mentorship
• Holy Spirit moments that shaped the early church
• Living out faith in school (Dalton’s story)
• Gratitude, family, and Thanksgiving reflections
• Final shoutouts + ministry plugs