Playlist:

playlist Go to the Pessimism (topic) playlist

Reasons for Optimism

CGG Weekly by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The epilogue to Job's story reveals a lesson for us. Job's 'golden age' was before him, not behind, and the key to his optimism was his relationship with God.


The Point of No Return

Commentary by Joseph B. Baity

Even before COVID-19, Americans were gripped by anxiety, fear, and depression, pointing to an unrecognized but quickly spreading mental health pandemic.


The Good Ol' Days

Sermonette by Joseph B. Baity

Many try to run away from the pessimistic view of the future by retreating into the past, a nostalgic participation in the 'good old days.'


Antidotes to Fear and Depression

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The key to overcoming the fear of loss of control is to admit that God is in control. If we have our priorities straight, God will take care of our anxieties.


Passover and Hope

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

The Passover is a beacon of hope in an otherwise hopeless milieu. Jesus provided hope at His last Passover, exuding confidence despite what lay ahead.


Small, But Significant

'Ready Answer' by Staff

Sometimes small things make big impacts, such as Simon of Cyrene's carrying of Christ's cross. Do we consider our 'smallness' to be a blessing or a curse?


Christian Optimism

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Paul wrote some of his most optimistic letters from prison, under the possibility of execution, but absolutely convinced that ultimate victory was imminent.


How Can We Develop True Patience?

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Patience in the face of trying events is a clear indication that we are developing genuine godliness. We can learn to turn trials into positive growth opportunities.


Everlasting Consolation and Good Hope

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

God's saints are not immune to depression. Job, Moses, and Elijah all felt so overwhelmed, they wanted God to take their lives.


Hope to the End (Part One)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

The church must forcefully deal with the overwhelming feeling of hopelessness or it too will succumb to the terrifying vortex of despair.


Lonely, But Not Forsaken

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Even Jesus had to cope with feelings of anxiety and loneliness in Gethsemane before His crucifixion, a time when He experienced separation from His Father.


What You Feel vs. What You Believe

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Feelings and emotions may throw our faith off course. Our moods are mercurial and we must control them with daily prayer and Bible study.


Passover of the Most High God

'Ready Answer' by David C. Grabbe

Among God's many titles is one that proclaims His supremacy over all others: 'God Most High.' It provides confidence in God's governance of our lives.


Worry and Seeking the Kingdom

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Worry is a wired-in proclivity of carnal human nature, a response that Satan has programmed in a perpetual state of discontent and distrust in God.