The News Knows How to Make You Mad - Spiritually Fit Today

Welcome to Spiritually Fit Today with Arnie Cole. In this episode, Arnie is joined by Randy and Bruce, two former journalists, to hjav a practical conversation about truth versus spin in today’s media. They explain what journalism should be (verified facts, fair representation of both sides, accountability), how modern coverage often shifts into narrative-building driven by audience preference and revenue pressure, and why this matters for Christ-followers who are called to value truth because Jesus is Truth. The episode’s memory verse is 1 Thessalonians 5:21 — “But test them all. Hold on to what is good.” Practical takeaway: don’t let one outlet form your opinion—choose one story and read it from multiple sources before deciding what you think. 4 R action steps Read: Read 1 Thessalonians 5:21 and pick one current story to review from at least two different outlets. Reflect: Ask: What’s being emphasized or ignored? Is the story verified? Is each side represented fairly (in a way they’d say is accurate)? What words or framing seem designed to push me emotionally? Respond: Short prayer — Lord, you are the God of Truth. Give us discerning hearts, help us not accept everything at face value, and guide our search for what is true. Amen. Reveal: Share one carefully vetted article with a friend or family member, explain how you compared sources, and model a calm, truth-seeking conversation. Want to follow up or send feedback? Contact Arnie: [email protected] Keywords: Christian discernment, newsfeed discernment, media literacy, truth vs spin, narrative building, verify sources, compare news, 1 Thessalonians 5:21, journalism standards, Wall Street Journal, social media news, Arnie Cole, Randy, Bruce, Spiritually Fit Today, podcast Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily at: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sft