The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

Epizode

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  Finding God Beneath the Fallen Leaves 03.10.2026 6min

  Fall can bring beauty, but for those grieving the loss of someone they love, changing leaves can also stir painful memories. Seasons, places, and familiar routines can remind us of the people who are no longer beside us. Yet even in grief, we can find God beneath the fallen leaves. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we have the hope of healing, comfort, and eternal life beyond death. The death of a loved one is one of life’s deepest pains. While Christians can have hope that death is not the end, that hope does not erase the sorrow of missing someone we love. During seasons of grief, 1 Peter 2:24 reminds us that Jesus understands suffering and willingly carried our sins and wounds on the cross. His love remains constant even when life does not unfold as we hoped. When grief resurfaces, we can turn toward Christ and trust Him with our pain, remembering that He is near to the brokenhearted and offers comfort that will ultimately outlast our sorrow. Highlights Why seasonal changes can bring painful memories of loved ones who have passed away How Christians can face grief while holding onto the hope of eternal life Why the death of a loved one can be more difficult to process than our own mortality How Jesus’ wounds on the cross demonstrate His deep love for us Why grief does not mean God has abandoned us How to make the most of our time with the people we love Encouragement to bring grief, pain, and heartbreak to Jesus for comfort and healing Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Finding God Beneath the Fallen LeavesBy Vivian Bricker  Bible Reading:“‘He himself bore our sins’ in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; ‘by his wounds you have been healed’” (1 Peter 2:24).  As the fall time approaches, I often start feeling more depressed. My mom passed away in the fall time and each year this season passes, it reminds me of the days she spent in the hospital. All I wanted was to take her out of this terrible situation and bring her home, but that was not an option.  When the leaves begin to change and fall to the ground, I often start reflecting on the brevity of life. None of our lives are very long, even if we live to be one-hundred years old. And for most of us, when it is time for us to go, we do not want to go.  Watching our loved ones pass on from this world to the next is a depressing experience. Although we may know they are in Heaven, it still pains us to see them go. They are no longer beside us as we drive to new destinations; they are no longer present when we get home; and when we call them, nobody answers. It was not supposed to be this way, yet this is now our reality. As Christ followers, we do not need to fear death, for it is only the passageway to eternal life with the Lord. Death will sting, but it will not last long (1 Corinthians 15:56). While many of us can cope with the idea of our own death, it is much harder to cope with the death of a loved one. Instersecting Faith & Life: Losing our parents, siblings, friends, or spouse is all difficult. None of us can run from the fact that we will experience at least one of our loved ones passing away before we do. During the time that we have with them, we need to make the most of it. Never should we waste days or engage in arguments just for the sake of arguing. Instead, we need to extend love, compassion, and support for our loved ones.  If we fail to do this, we will regret it later. We will look back at the days we had with our loved ones and feel ashamed that we did not do more with them. Therefore, we need to truly make the most of every opportunity and be there for our loved ones. We will make lasting memories that will never fade. The Apostle Peter tells us, “‘He himself bore our sins’ in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; ‘by his wounds you have been healed’” (1 Peter 2:24). The wounds of the Lord have given us everything we need to live, obey Him, and glorify Him.  During times of intense grief and pain, we must reflect on this passage. Although we feel far from secure, we must remember that by Jesus’ wounds, we have been healed. He took these wounds on His back because He loves us.  Jesus loved us so much that He died for our sins. He chose to do this because He loves us. Whenever we are struggling with pain, grief, or stress, we do not need to doubt Jesus’ love. Things might not go as we planned, but we can trust that all things are working out for our good (Romans 8:28). Sometimes His will is painful, yet the pain can still be a blessing. Whatever you need healing from today, know that it is found in Jesus. He can bring healing and relief to any wound you are facing. The pain, agony, and heartbreak you are experiencing now will not endure forever. Allow Jesus to heal this wound by turning to Him. He will bless you with the comfort you need and surround you with His love. Have you found God beneath the fallen leaves this year? What are some ways you have seen God carry your grief? Further Reading:Psalm 34:18 Matthew 11:28-30 John 16:22 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  When the Days Grow Shorter, but God’s Goodness Does Not 02.10.2026 6min

  As the days grow shorter and seasons become darker, it can be easy to feel discouraged by the loss of light. But John 8:12 reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world—a light that does not fade, even when our circumstances feel dark. While physical darkness can affect our mood and energy, spiritual darkness can also leave us feeling discouraged, uncertain, or distant from hope. Jesus offers a light that reaches beyond our circumstances and gives us lasting hope and life. Jesus’ declaration that He is the light of the world points to His identity as God and His victory over sin and darkness. Through Christ, we are no longer bound to darkness but are empowered by the Holy Spirit to live as children of light. Even when we walk through difficult seasons, we can trust that darkness will not have the final word. God’s goodness remains constant, His presence does not fade, and His light continues to shine. Rather than simply waiting for a difficult season to pass, we can reflect Christ’s light through our actions, share the hope we have in Him, and encourage others who may be walking through their own season of darkness. Highlights Why shorter days and physical darkness can affect our emotions and sense of motivation What Jesus meant when He declared, “I am the light of the world” How Jesus’ identity connects to God’s declaration of “I AM” in Exodus 3 Why Christ’s light continues to shine even during difficult and dark seasons How Jesus’ work on the cross frees us from the darkness of sin What it means to live as children of light and let our faith shine before others Encouragement to remember that difficult seasons do not last forever and God’s goodness never fades Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: When the Days Grow Shorter, but God’s Goodness Does Not By: Laura Bailey Bible Reading: When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” - John 8:12 NIV Every year around this time, my husband goes into a funk. He’s an outdoor guy, and since his job has him chained to a desk for roughly 10 hours a day, he covets the extra sunshine-filled days of summer. As the days grow shorter, he struggles to find joy in the diminishing hours of light.  I get where he’s coming from; there are a lot of people who feel that way.  I only made it one winter living in Montreal, where the sun didn’t show up till mid-morning and started setting early afternoon. I struggled with the lack of light in my life, so I went to see a counselor who recommended I invest in a light box. If you are not familiar with a light box, it is literally just that— a box with a light in it. For those who suffer from the seasonal blues, scientists have found that a few minutes in a light box can have a major effect on mood.  It’s pretty wild to think about how light, or the lack thereof, can affect our moods, mental health, physical drive, and various other factors of motivation. Scripture speaks often of light and darkness. Jesus tells us in John 8:12 that, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” In the book of John, Jesus makes 7 “I am” statements, which refer to the conversation Moses has with God in Exodus: Moses said to God, “Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ Then what shall I tell them?” God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you’” (Exodus 3:13-14). God doesn’t need further explanation; He is the alpha and omega, the beginning and end; He has always existed.  The same is true for Jesus, since He is part of the Trinity and God in human form; He, too, can say, “I am who I am.” During the time Jesus was teaching, light would have been a precious commodity; you didn’t flip a switch; it took work to keep the light going. So, for the original audience, hearing of a light that never dims or goes out would have been a foreign concept. Yet Jesus tells us that He is a light that never fades and shines into the darkness, and provides life. Jesus Christ’s work on the cross delivers us from the darkness; it releases us from the chains of sin and sets us free. And that’s not all! Those of us in Christ now have the power of the Holy Spirit; the same power that raised Jesus from the grave lives in us (Romans 8:11).  So what should we do with this power?  We let our light shine before men, so that our good deeds can glorify our Father in Heaven (Matthew 5:16).We boldly share the light in our lives and the eternal hope we have in Jesus Christ (Psalm 27:1).We walk as children of the light, those who are called according to God’s purpose to proclaim His wondrous works (Ephesians 5:8). While we have the light of Christ in our lives, there will be times when we experience seasons that feel very dark. If you are in one of those seasons, let me encourage you, as I do my husband, that it will not last forever. One day, the sun’s presence will linger longer, and one day the light will overtake the darkness. Stay encouraged; the days may grow shorter, but God’s goodness does not. Intersecting Faith &Life:If you struggle with the winter blues, take some time today to make a plan to incorporate both spiritual and physical light into your life.Further Reading: What are all the “I AM” Statements? Matthew 5 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  Do Not Fear 01.10.2026 7min

  Fear can make difficult circumstances feel overwhelming, especially when the future is uncertain or we cannot see what lies ahead. But Isaiah 41:10 offers a powerful reminder that God does not ask us to face fear and hardship alone. He promises to be with us, strengthen us, help us, and uphold us with His righteous hand. When fear tells us we are alone or too weak to keep going, God’s presence gives us a reason to trust Him. God’s presence changes the way we face frightening circumstances. He sees the path ahead even when we cannot, knows what we will encounter, and is never surprised by the challenges we face. His strength is greater than our weakness, His help is available in every season, and His faithful hand can hold us steady when life feels uncertain. Rather than allowing fear to control our thoughts and decisions, we can focus on God’s promises and bring our worries to Him in prayer. As our confidence in God grows, we can learn to choose faith over fear and move forward knowing that He is with us every step of the way. Highlights How Isaiah 41:10 reminds us that God is present when we face frightening circumstances Why we can trust God even when we cannot see what lies ahead How God provides strength when we feel too weak to handle our circumstances Why we never have to face our struggles without God’s help What it means for God to uphold us with His righteous right hand How focusing on God’s promises can replace fear with greater confidence and peace Practical encouragement for choosing faith over fear in everyday challenges Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Do Not Fear By: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10, NIV I once went to a party store in October with my son and daughter to buy my daughter’s Halloween costume. My son was in preschool at the time, and the moment we walked inside, he saw scary Halloween decorations everywhere. There was a robotic talking skeleton with glowing red eyes, a cackling inflatable witch, and other scary displays. He was so afraid that he closed his eyes and refused to open them. My daughter and I gently held his hands and guided him through the store like a blind person because he simply could not bear to look. We hurried to find the costume, paid for it, and got out of there as quickly as we could. My son felt safe because he knew we were with him, even though he couldn’t see where he was going. You’ll encounter many scary situations in this fallen world. But God encourages you in Isaiah 41:10 not to be afraid, because he is with you and will help you. You don’t have to fear, because God is with you. God’s presence changes everything. Just as my son found comfort because he knew his family was beside him, you can find peace because your loving Heavenly Father never leaves your side. Even when you can’t see what lies ahead, God sees the whole path before you. God knows every challenge you’ll encounter and every need you’ll have along the way. Nothing surprises God, and no scary situation is too hard for God to handle. God also promises to strengthen you. There may be days when you feel too weak to manage the challenges you’re facing. But God doesn’t expect you to find strength on your own. He promises to give you the strength you need for each step. God’s power is greater than your weakness. As you rely on God’s strength, you’ll discover that God will empower you to deal with situations that once seemed impossible to manage. God also promises to help you. You never have to face your struggles by yourself. God sees every problem you’re facing and hears every prayer you pray for help. God will walk closely with you as your personal guide, ready to help at just the right time. Sometimes God will help you by changing your circumstances. At other times, God will give you the grace and endurance to keep trusting him as you go through challenging circumstances. Either way, God will faithfully work for your good. Finally, God says he will uphold you with his righteous right hand. That means God will hold you securely, so you can be secure even when your life feels unsteady. Even when you feel like you might fall, God is able to keep you standing. God’s loving hand on you is stronger than anything that tries to pull you down. So, instead of focusing on the fear you feel, focus on God’s promises to you. When fear leads you to think you’re alone, remember that God says, “I am with you.” When fear tells you that you’re too weak, remember that God says, “I will strengthen you.” When fear says no one can help you, remember that God says, “I will help you.” When fear tells you that you’ll fall, remember that God says, “I will uphold you.” Don’t let fear take control of your life. Each day is another opportunity to trust God’s promises instead of your feelings. As you spend time reading the Bible and bringing your worries to God in prayer, your confidence in God will grow. Little by little, you’ll learn that God’s peace is stronger than your fear because God’s presence is always with you. Choose to trust God – instead of fear – to lead you forward. You don’t have to walk through life with your eyes closed, wondering what will happen next. God is walking beside you every step of the way. God’s love is constant, God’s strength never fails, and God’s faithful hand is holding you securely. Because God is with you, you don’t have to fear. Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider how God will help you overcome fear, reflect on these questions: What fear are you carrying today that you need to give to God? How have you experienced God’s help during a difficult season in your life? Which promise in Isaiah 41:10 speaks the most to you today? What’s one way you can choose faith instead of fear this week? How can remembering that God is always with you change the way you face today’s challenges? Further Reading: Psalm 23:4 Deuteronomy 31:8 2 Timothy 1:7 Joshua 1:9 John 14:27 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  Unfollowing Social Media 30.09.2026 6min

  A declining follower count or an unexpected unfollow can stir up feelings of loneliness, rejection, and insecurity. But our value is not determined by social media approval or by how others choose to treat us. God sees us, loves us, and invites us to bring our hurt to Him. Matthew 7:12 teaches us to treat others the way we want to be treated, both online and in person. While we cannot control other people’s choices, we can choose how we respond when their actions hurt us. Instead of returning rejection with rejection or allowing bitterness to take root, we can seek God’s comfort, practice kindness, and remember that our identity is grounded in Christ. When social media leaves us feeling disconnected or discouraged, God offers refuge, healing, and a love that does not depend on followers, friendships, or approval. Highlights Why being unfollowed or unfriended on social media can trigger feelings of rejection How social media approval can influence the way we view our worth Why our identity and value come from God rather than other people’s opinions What Matthew 7:12 teaches about treating others with kindness online and in person How to bring feelings of hurt, loneliness, and rejection to God Why responding to hurt with kindness is more consistent with following Jesus Encouragement to find comfort in God’s unfailing love when relationships change Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Unfollowing Social MediaBy Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12).  Each time I see my follower count go down on social media, I automatically feel like the little kid I was in sixth grade. My feelings get hurt, and I start feeling bad about myself. Depending on who the person is, it can hurt even worse. Recently, I had someone I thought was a real friend unfollow me. Their unfollowing caught me off guard, but I figured that, like everyone else, they didn’t like me much either. Even though this person chose to unfollow me, I didn’t choose to unfollow them back. Clicking the unfollow button is intentional, often with the thought that you don’t care about the person anymore. Since social media is one of the main ways we connect with others today, unfollowing someone can feel similar to leaving their life and choosing not to engage with them anymore. Even though I am an adult and I’m doing better mentally than I have in a long time, I cannot shake the pain it brings when someone I thought was a friend disconnects from my life. However, while talking with a wise friend, she told me that they were never really my friends to begin with. This was the second time someone had said something like this to me, which showed me that God was trying to tell me something. We don’t need to seek approval from humankind. Instead, we must remember that God already accepts us as we are. If other people don’t like us, that’s okay. And if they are offended when we share our honest feelings, then that’s okay, too. However, that doesn’t mean what they did didn’t hurt us. In truth, when a friend unfollows us, it can make us feel worthless. Bring these feelings to God and set them at His feet (1 Peter 5:7). Tell Him how their words and actions hurt your feelings. It is enough to say, “Lord, my friend unfollowed me, and it makes me feel awful.” God will meet you where you are and cover you with His support. As the Bible says, “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart” (Psalm 91:4). Intersecting Faith & Life: The Lord tells us, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12). This passage is now known as the “Golden Rule.” It is often taught in schools to help children learn how to treat others well. As followers of the Lord, He doesn’t want us to hurt others with our actions. He wants us to extend kindness, love, and support. Even if other people hurt us, we must turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:38-40). Just because they are mean and hurtful toward us doesn’t mean we need to return the pain (1 Peter 3:9). If we don’t want others to be mean to us, unfollow us, or unfriend us, we don’t need to do those things to others. By filtering our actions and words through the Word of God, we will be able to truly shine brightly for Jesus. Has anyone ever unfollowed you? How did that make you feel? How can you start treating others the way you want to be treated, both in person and online? Pray with me: Dear Jesus, other people have unfollowed me on social media in the past, and it is very hurtful. It makes me feel like I’m worthless. Please help me to remember that my worth is in You and that You will love me always. Help to turn my heart away from evil and turn it toward You. Equip my heart with the ability to treat others the way I want to be treated and to repay evil with blessing. In Your Name, I pray, Amen. Further Reading: Psalm 34:18 Psalm 55:22 Matthew 11:28-30 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  Staying Encouraged When We Face Opposition 29.09.2026 6min

  Scripture reminds us that opposition does not automatically mean we are outside God’s will. Sometimes challenges are part of the process, and learning to trust God’s timing can strengthen our faith and spiritual endurance. Ezra 4:4 describes how the Israelites faced discouragement and fear while rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. Their opposition temporarily interrupted the work, but it did not ultimately defeat God’s purposes. Like the Israelites, we can continue seeking God’s wisdom when doors close and people resist our efforts. Although rejection can hurt, our calling does not depend entirely on human approval. By grounding ourselves in God’s promises, discerning His direction, and remaining faithful in our work, we can face opposition with courage and renewed trust. Highlights Why opposition and rejection do not always mean we have misunderstood God’s calling What Ezra 4:4 teaches about discouragement and fear when doing God’s work How to discern the difference between God’s redirection and rejection from people Why Christians should not expect a life without trials or opposition How God’s promises can strengthen our faith and spiritual endurance Why our calling and value do not depend on human approval Encouragement to trust God’s timing and continue faithfully pursuing His purposes Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Staying Encouraged When We Face Opposition By: Laura Bailey  Bible Reading:Then the people around them set out to discourage the people of Judah and make them afraid to go on building. - Ezra 4:4 ( NIV) I stared at the e-mail. This was the third rejection I’d received this week. I felt confident the Lord was calling me to a new opportunity to serve Him, yet doors remained closed. In an attempt to gain clarity, I spoke with my pastor.  With a background in counseling, my pastor speaks biblical truth alongside practical steps that encourage.   “How do I know if this is a sign from God, or just a part of the process?” I inquired. “Do you think I heard God wrong?” “Or maybe this is just a testing of my faith; God is strengthening my spiritual endurance, you think?”  My pastor asked if I’d studied the book of Ezra, to which I admitted to reading it, but I couldn’t recall specifics. While the author is not specifically named, it’s likely Ezra the priest, a leader of the Israelites. If I asked you to name some of the most significant leaders in the Bible, likely Ezra wouldn’t make your top 10. His name means “help”; that’s exactly what he did for God’s people who were coming out of exile and reestablishing the nation of Israel. Ezra lived a life wholly committed to surrender to God’s commands and serving His people, no matter how difficult the circumstances.  In our key verse, Ezra 4:4, we see the Israelites attempt to rebuild the temple so they could have a place to worship, yet they faced great opposition from the local inhabitants, who didn’t want to see the Jews prosper.  The first verses in Ezra chapter 4 give us a glimpse into the hostile climate the Israelites faced; their enemies were great, and they were vocal about not wanting a temple built. However, just because they faced opposition didn’t mean it wasn’t in God’s plan for them to continue building.  In fact, believers can expect opposition when they are engaging in God’s work and carrying out His purpose.  We should note that it’s not always spiritual warfare, or the intentions of evil people working against us; sometimes it's just the consequences of life in a fallen world. Christians are not promised an easy life, one without trials and opposition, but we know that we can “take heart because Jesus has overcome the world” (John 16:33). When we have trouble, we cling to God’s promises and trust in His plan and timing.  As I thought about this biblical text and my current situation, I began to consider that perhaps what I had perceived as a rejection of my calling was just “no” to that circumstance. While rejection still hurts, and I would need to continue seeking opportunities with the possibility of further rejection, I was reminded that I didn’t need human approval to affirm my calling; I already had God’s.  Like the Israelites, I had a choice when facing opposition; I could become discouraged and intimidated, and ultimately allow fear of humans to persuade me to give up on my calling. The Israelites had just recently been released from captivity; they would have been weary, likely with shaky motivation and faith. Ezra not only led the people back to their home, Jerusalem, but also encouraged and equipped them to build an altar and begin rebuilding the temple—a visual reminder of who they serve and of God’s faithfulness to keep His promises to His people. It wasn’t easy; they faced significant opposition, and rumors and false accusations put the project on hold for a while.  Yet, God’s purpose prevailed. Nothing can thwart God’s plan; if He calls us to something, He will certainly carry us through. Ultimately, the temple was rebuilt, and the Israelites were able to live freely and worship—God made a way. And the same is true today; if it is God’s will, nothing can hold us back from achieving His purposes. Let us continue to work as unto the Lord and not human masters (1 Corinthians 15:58) and trust in God’s timing and plan.  Intersecting Faith & Life:Are you easily discouraged when you face opposition in your life? How can you discern if it’s redirection from the Lord or rejection from people?Further Reading: How to Trust God Amid Uncertainty Ezra 4  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  Allowing Yourself to Be Unlike Any Other in a Peer-Pressure World 28.09.2026 7min

  Do you ever compare your life, career, appearance, or accomplishments with those around you and wonder if you are falling behind? In a world shaped by peer pressure, self-improvement, and constant comparison, it can be difficult to recognize your own God-given identity. The pressure to fit someone else’s expectations can leave you feeling inadequate, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the purpose God has designed for you. But Scripture reminds us that you were created with intention, unique gifts, and a meaningful role in God’s work. First Corinthians 12:4-7 teaches that believers have different gifts, forms of service, and ways of working, yet the same God is active in all of them. Your value is not determined by matching someone else’s success, lifestyle, or abilities. Instead, God invites you to discover and faithfully use the gifts He has given you for the common good. By seeking His direction, resisting comparison, and embracing your God-given uniqueness, you can learn to live with confidence and purpose—even in a world that pressures you to become someone you were never meant to be. Highlights How peer pressure and comparison can distort the way we see our value Why God created each person with unique gifts, purposes, and abilities What 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 teaches about different gifts serving the common good How career expectations and cultural definitions of success can lead to overwhelm Why your worth is not determined by accomplishments, status, or fitting someone else’s expectations Practical ways to seek God’s direction and discover what you are uniquely called to do Encouragement to embrace your God-given identity rather than allowing comparison to define your life Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Allowing Yourself to Be Unlike Any Other in a Peer-Pressure World By: Lia Girard Bible Reading:There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.  There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. —1 Corinthians 12:4-7 Have you ever found yourself asking, “Why me, God?” or possibly, “Why not me, God?” You’re surely not alone, as we live in a world that’s often choking on comparison. Everywhere we turn, we hear and see messages about improving, doing better, letting go of things that aren't correct, picking up more correct things, developing new habits, buying the latest self-improvement tool, and so on. This pervasive peer pressure—to follow someone else’s plan—can feel clamorous, confusing, and heavy. Which is why it’s worth reminding yourself of scripture that says you’re divinely designed, with holy intention, to be different. You and I are each here to serve our one-of-a-kind purpose. Tuck this in your heart: 2 Timothy 1:7 proclaims that God gave you a spirit of power and love, not a spirit of fear. So when you’re afraid you just don’t measure up to others, you’re choosing to ignore your God-given spirit. To counteract this fear, I need to revisit 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 these days. This is because after a recent series of health struggles (although I eat clean and stay quite active), I made the difficult decision to step down from a high-stress, high-performance, full-time career and return to freelancing. My entire being was begging me to gather my senses. I needed to discern what I’m drawn to and what I’m made for.  I’d been laboring on a large, powerhouse team of creatives, relentlessly required to achieve unachievable metrics. It pushed me onto a path of continual self-criticism and overwhelm. I pressured myself against the make-believe standard that my career accomplishments represented my value before God. I was enmeshed in the corporate peer pressure and convinced myself that I owed “success” to my past, my spouse, and my children.  That was all until I was forced to start asking God what success looked like in his eyes.  Of course, I understand we all need to make a living, but spending your life as someone you’re not... is unlikely to be what God has in mind for you. That’s why it’s so refreshing to revisit Paul's truth in 1 Corinthians 12—that we are all created by the same creator, with a singularly original design. God himself purposely fills each of us with unique longings and gifts. What an honor it is to receive this! Just read Psalm 139, and you’ll know that God created a masterpiece when he knit you together in your mother’s womb.  What I feel Paul is saying in 1 Corinthians 12 is that instead of complaining about what you can or can't do, you could discover and celebrate your handcrafted role in God's overall plan. Even while there's constant peer pressure to wear the latest fashion, drive a better car, live a certain lifestyle, achieve a specific status ... you can, and should, still be you.  All of us collectively are God's garden of life, and I can't imagine any garden with only one type of flower. God is continually revealing that every living thing is made by him with intention and balanced by him for the common good.  So, let me reassure you today: when you stay in communication with the one who made you to be unlike any other, you can feel good about living a life that looks like you.  Intersecting Faith & Life: When you think about peer pressure to achieve or adapt in ways that don’t feel right to you, consider these suggestions: Pray for God to reveal what feels good and fulfilling and well-suited to you Start a bucket list of one new thing you’d like to try each week Write down a scripture verse that feels affirming and calming to you (not what someone else tells you to write down), and tape it to your mirror Further Reading:Galatians 1:10 1 Peter 2:9 Psalm 139:13-14 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  The Danger of Isolation 27.09.2026 7min

  Isolation can seem like an easy response when we feel hurt, overwhelmed, busy, or disappointed by others. But prolonged loneliness and withdrawal can leave us spiritually discouraged and emotionally vulnerable. Proverbs 18:1 warns about the danger of isolating ourselves, reminding us that God did not create us to navigate life entirely on our own. Christian community plays an important role in our spiritual growth, offering encouragement, accountability, support, and opportunities to reflect Christ’s love. While spending time alone with God is valuable, healthy faith also involves connecting with other believers who can strengthen us through difficult seasons. Whether unresolved hurts, a busy schedule, or fear of vulnerability is keeping you distant from others, God invites you back into meaningful relationships. As we encourage and support one another, we discover that connection is not only something we need to receive but also something we are called to offer. Highlights Why isolation can become an unhealthy habit after seasons of difficulty or disruption What Proverbs 18:1 teaches about withdrawing from others and sound judgment How isolation can pull us away from Christian community, encouragement, and accountability Warning signs that loneliness may be connected to unresolved hurt, busyness, or unhealthy independence Why balancing personal time with God and meaningful relationships with other believers matters How Christians can sharpen, support, and encourage one another through life’s struggles Why reaching out to encourage someone else can help us experience deeper connection and community Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: The Danger of Isolation By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading: Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire;He breaks out against all sound judgment.  (Proverbs 18:1 ESV) It was quite the thing to do to isolate from one another during that horrendous year of 2020. We sheltered in place to keep ourselves safe. We kept ourselves away from others to obey governmental authorities. We isolated because, for a time, we couldn’t do anything else.  But, during that time, we developed some isolation habits that are likely still holding onto us today. When difficulties arise, or you get hurt by another person, or you become very busy and focused on something and don’t want to be interrupted, it can be natural now to withdraw and shut others out.  The wise King Solomon told us in Proverbs 18:1 that isolating is not exercising sound judgment, and, in the NASB, we are told it “quarrels against all sound wisdom.” Look at that verse alongside Solomon’s words in Proverbs 27:17, which tell us: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (NASB). Scripture is telling us it’s not only unwise to isolate oneself, but it’s also dangerous. Isolation or withdrawing from others pulls us away from the body of Christ, where we can be encouraged by other believers, and it leaves us far more vulnerable to the attacks of Satan, who often seeks to first isolate us from other believers and then accuse us and discourage us further.  Until recently, I didn’t realize how quickly isolating tendencies can become a habit. I had been pretty independent over the past couple of years as my schedule got busier and my phone and Zoom coaching increased. I was spending less time face-to-face with my friends and more time in front of screens getting my work done or meeting remotely with clients. I was spending less time in my favorite booth at Chick-fil-A listening to others share what’s on their hearts, and more time cultivating my spiritual life apart from the accountability and encouragement from others.  And then I went through a health scare, followed by the news that my mother had less than six months to live. Going through difficulties can make you start wondering, Who do I call if I suddenly need a ride to the hospital and my husband isn’t available? and Who is in my life who can help me through this struggle and keep me trusting in my Lord, regardless of my circumstances? You and I weren’t meant to go through life alone. So, when you start feeling lonely or the temptation to isolate from others, it’s an inner alarm that something is off. And it could be:   You aren’t cultivating enough friendships in your life. You have some unresolved hurts that are keeping you from opening up with others. You are unknowingly turning people away and living as a “loner.” You’ve been prioritizing productivity over people (this is for the busy person who is lonely and doesn’t know it), and need to find a healthy balance.  It could also mean you are further from God than you should be (perhaps not communing with Him daily?), or you have been depending solely on God at the expense of no longer being among other believers.  Intersecting Faith & Life: God didn’t intend for us to live in isolation. He created us to live in community. When you are among other believers who can encourage you and hold you up, you can continue to grow spiritually, as well as emotionally. Although God wants to draw us close to His heart through our struggles, we can grow spiritually through a healthy balance of alone time with God and time with other believers in their physical presence. God created us for a relationship with Him and with others who can help us grow, help us experience Him, and help us see Him in ways we couldn’t otherwise.  In a recent phone conversation with my Dad, in which he told me about a few opportunities he had to listen to hurting people, I thanked him for being Jesus to the people he interacts with every day. Dad was touched by those words. I realized, after I got off the phone, that he called that day to encourage me, but I was able to encourage him, too. That’s how it works in a family—especially in the family of God. God wants believers sharpening one another, supporting one another, helping one another, and “encouraging one another…all the more as you see the day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:25).  If you aren’t experiencing spiritual encouragement and support from your natural family, it is waiting for you in your spiritual family—in the church, what Scripture calls the body (the human hands and feet) of Jesus. And if no one is being Jesus to you, start being Jesus for someone else. That’s often when you begin to feel less isolated and more connected with one another.  Further Reading: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12  For more on growing closer to God and others, see Cindi’s books: The New Loneliness: Nurturing Meaningful Connections When You Feel Isolated, and The New Loneliness Devotional: 50 Days to a Closer Connection with God.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  Why Repentance Is Good for the Soul 26.09.2026 7min

  What is the importance of repentance, and how can turning back to God bring healing and spiritual renewal? In a culture where admitting wrongdoing can feel risky or uncomfortable, it’s easy to avoid confronting sin in our lives. We may carry guilt, become comfortable with unhealthy patterns, or assume that repentance is only necessary when we have made a serious mistake. But Scripture presents repentance as a gracious invitation from God—a pathway to forgiveness, restored fellowship, and refreshing for the soul. Acts 3:19 calls us to repent and turn to God so that our sins may be wiped away and times of refreshing may come from the Lord. Through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, God has made forgiveness possible, and we do not have to carry the weight of sin on our own. Genuine repentance involves humility, honest confession, and a willingness to turn toward God. As the Holy Spirit reveals areas that need change, we can trust God’s mercy and allow Him to renew our hearts, strengthen our faith, and lead us into a life of righteousness. Highlights Why genuine repentance involves more than simply saying, “I’m sorry” How unconfessed sin can weigh on our hearts and affect our relationship with God What Acts 3:19 teaches about repentance, forgiveness, and spiritual refreshing The difference between godly sorrow that leads to repentance and worldly sorrow How the Holy Spirit brings conviction and helps us recognize sin Why Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross is the foundation of our forgiveness Encouragement to regularly examine our hearts, confess our sins, and experience God’s renewing mercy Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Why Repentance Is Good for the Soul By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” - Acts 3:19 When was the last time we spent heartfelt time repenting? Not just a quick “I’m sorry” or “Please forgive me,” but heartfelt repentance before the Lord, with genuine sorrow and possibly tears for our sins? If we can’t remember, then are we walking around under the weight of sin, unaware of our need to confess and repent of it? Have we become comfortable with it, no longer recognizing its presence in our lives? Repentance isn’t a popular word in the Church today. Sure, we want revival, but when it comes to repenting for the sin in our lives, that’s another story because it means admitting that we sin. The thinking today is that we don’t ever admit to being in the wrong in relationships, careers, business situations, traffic incidents, and more because, if we do, then we become liable, making ourselves vulnerable to being taken advantage of, held responsible, and put in the position of being asked to cover all the costs. God’s Already Has Us Covered Still, when it comes to confessing our sin, God has already covered all the costs for us. All we have to do is repent, and we are no longer liable. He’s already taken care of it all for us, paying in advance and providing a way for us to be set free and refreshed in the process. Although we know we are already forgiven, repentance brings closeness and renewal in our relationship with the Lord. As the Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 7:10, “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” Scripture describes repentance as refreshing, like what comes in a revival, where we yield to the Holy Spirit’s conviction of sin and experience the refreshing that comes from the Lord after repentance. Jesus explains in John 16:8 what the Holy Spirit will do: “When He comes, He will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment.” As Micah 7:18 describes, “Who is a God like You, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of His inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy.” Repentance Comes in Measures, Steps, and Seasons Repentance, too, may come in stages in our lives because if God revealed all our sins to us at once, it would overwhelm our hearts and minds. We couldn’t bear the weight of it; no one could. It’s why Jesus carried our sin for us, because God knows we cannot bear up under it, as the weight of sin is too heavy. As 1 Peter 2:24 explains, “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; ‘by His wounds you have been healed.’” The High Price God Paid for Repentance Without the high price God paid through Jesus’ sacrifice for our salvation, we could repent until our faces turned blue, but it wouldn’t cancel out our sin. As Isaiah 53:5 explains, “But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds we are healed.” Paul also explains in Colossians 2:13-15: “When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; He has taken it away, nailing it to the cross.  And having disarmed the powers and authorities, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”   Some argue that Jesus and the New Testament don’t preach repentance, but as Matthew 4:17 describes, “From that time on Jesus began to preach, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.’” Likewise, Acts 2:38 says, “Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’” Intersecting Faith & Life: When was the last time you spent time in repentance? If it’s been a while, set aside some time to spiritually check your heart and mind to see if there are things you need to confess and repent of in your life. Ask God to lead you, wipe your sins away, and bring refreshing to you now. Further Reading: What Makes for A Repentant Heart? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  Walk in the Light 25.09.2026 6min

  d, it can be easy to overlook the ways our choices pull us away from God. Scripture calls us to examine how we live, recognize the difference between darkness and light, and choose to follow God’s truth rather than simply conforming to the world around us. First John 1:6-7 reminds us that walking in the light means living in fellowship with God, while 1 John 1:9 offers hope when we recognize our sin and need for forgiveness. No matter how long we have walked in darkness or how deeply shame has taken root, we can turn back to God through confession and repentance. By walking in the Spirit, obeying God’s Word, and relying on His forgiveness, we can experience restoration and grow in a life that reflects Christ. Highlights What it means to walk in the light rather than conforming to darkness How normalized sin can influence the choices Christians make What 1 John 1:6-9 teaches about fellowship, confession, and forgiveness Why no sin is too great for God’s mercy and restoring grace How walking by the Spirit helps us resist sinful desires The importance of examining our lives and choosing obedience to God Encouragement for anyone struggling with shame to turn back to God and experience His forgiveness Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Walk in the LightBy Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin” (1 John 1:6-7).  As Christ followers, we have the choice every day of whether or not to follow the Lord. We must ask ourselves: Are we going to walk in accordance with darkness or light? Even though many Christians believe they are consistently walking in the light, upon closer reflection and examination, they may see that they are far from it. Because we live in a fallen world, much sin has been normalized. Profanity, lying, and taking part in immoral behavior have all been accepted by society. Sadly, many Christians also engage in these behaviors and, in doing so, walk in conformity with the darkness. As Christians, we don’t need to use curse words, lie, or take part in immoral behavior (Ephesians 4:29; Colossians 3:9-10; Ephesians 5:3). Within the world, we are told that it is “cool” to use curse words, “understandable” to lie, and “acceptable” to engage in sexual immorality. If we walk in accordance with these teachings, we will be far from God. Living in alignment with sin will only bring trouble into our lives. Choosing to walk in the light can prevent us from falling into these problems. Even if we have been walking in darkness for a long time, we can still turn back to God and embrace His beautiful light. If you are on the edge of shifting deeper into the darkness, remember that your sin is not too severe. You can turn back to God today, confess your sins, and repent. The Bible tells us, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). Never doubt the power of God’s forgiveness in your life or the lasting healing He can provide in your heart. Intersecting Faith & Life: The Apostle John tells us, “If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin” (1 John 1:6-7). Upon reflecting on this passage, we see the divide between darkness and light. We either walk in darkness or in the light. Choosing light means choosing God, while choosing darkness means choosing sin. Each of us must decide whether we are going to walk in darkness or in the light. As Christ followers, we need to choose the light because this is where God is found. The Apostle Paul gives us further instructions on the matter: “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law” (Galatians 5:16-18). Walking in the light and in the Spirit means doing the right thing, obeying God, and faithfully following Him. If you are continuing to walk in darkness, is it because you feel ashamed? If so, how can you bring these feelings to God and experience peace? God will forgive everyone who turns to Him and asks for forgiveness. What is holding you back? Pray with me: Dear God, I have been walking in the darkness for too long. I am turning back to You today. The light is where I belong, not the darkness. Please forgive me for my sins and restore my soul. Help me to always choose the light and to walk in obedience to Your commands. Guide my soul and my heart, God. In Your Son’s Name, I pray, Amen. Further Reading: John 8:12 Ephesians 5:8-20 2 Corinthians 6:14  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  The Faithfulness of God When We Are Unfaithful 24.09.2026 5min

  Have you ever made a decision out of fear, acted against God’s Word, or wondered whether your mistakes could disrupt His plan for your life? The story of Abram in Genesis 12 reminds us that human unfaithfulness does not cancel God’s faithfulness. Although Abram responded to fear with deception and failed to trust God’s protection, the Lord remained present and continued working through His promises. God’s faithfulness does not excuse disobedience or remove the consequences of our choices, but it reminds us that our failures do not have the final word. Like Abram, we may struggle to trust God when circumstances feel uncertain, yet His purposes remain secure. Understanding God’s sovereignty, mercy, and grace can give us confidence to repent, pursue obedience, and trust that He is working for our good and His glory—even when we recognize how often we have fallen short. Highlights What Abram’s choices in Genesis 12 reveal about fear, deception, and unfaithfulness How God remained faithful even when Abram failed to trust His promises Why God’s sovereignty does not excuse our disobedience or remove personal responsibility The relationship between human free will and God’s ultimate purposes How God’s mercy and grace meet us when our choices fall short of His will Why we can trust that our mistakes cannot ultimately thwart God’s plans How recognizing God’s faithfulness can motivate us to walk in obedience and trust Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: The Faithfulness of God When We Are UnfaithfulBy: Laura Bailey  Bible Reading: Pharaoh gave his men orders concerning Abram. They sent Abram away with his wife and everything that he had. - Genesis 12:20 My middle daughter, Abigail, is only 9 years old, but she can ask some deep questions. On the way to basketball one night, she asked, “Mom, you said that you made a lot of bad choices before you got married; thankfully, God protected you, and His purpose prevailed. Does that mean we can do whatever we want and God will still make things happen?” Whew, that’s a lot for a ten-minute car ride.  Gratefully, another example of God’s providence: I’d been studying about Abram and how even though he was unfaithful, God was still faithful. While God wasn’t pleased with Abram’s disobedience, God used Abram’s sinful choices in the fulfillment of his plan for his life. Genesis 12 is a beautiful example of how God uses humanity's sins to achieve His purposes. This chapter opens with God telling Abram to leave his country for a new land. God promises to make Abram into a great nation and to bless him; ultimately, all the families of the earth will be blessed through Abram (Genesis 12:1-3). That’s a pretty weighty promise! Abram responds by packing up his family and moving to the land of Canaan as instructed. Once settled, Abram builds an altar as a sign of worship and dedication to the Lord (Genesis 12:4-9). It would appear that Abram is fully bought in and trusts in God’s plan, but we see in the following verses that’s not the case. Due to a drought, Abram and his wife Sarai had to travel to the land of Egypt. Sarai was very beautiful, and Abram was afraid that they would kill him to take her as Pharaoh’s wife. Abram decided it would be better for him if they claimed to be brother and sister. As a result, Sarai ends up living with the Pharaoh. Some time passes, and it is revealed that Abram and Sarai are not siblings but married. The Pharaoh gets pretty angry, rightfully so, considering God sent plagues on Pharaoh and his household. When confronted, Abram didn’t have a good excuse, not to the Pharaoh and not to the Lord (Genesis 12:10-20). His actions—his deception—were born out of fear; Abram didn’t trust that God would protect and provide, even though He said He would. Even though Abram was unfaithful, God was still faithful. Abram could do nothing to disrupt or distract from God’s purposes. God is always present; He never leaves or forsakes His children (Deuteronomy 31:8). It’s easy for me to look at Abram with a critical eye, “Why didn’t you just trust that God would protect you? He said he would. Look at the mess that could have been avoided if you had simply let God stay in control.”  But someone could easily say the same was true for me. I had free will and used it to make decisions that ran counter to God’s Word, and could have faced consequences that would have radically changed the outcome of my life. I am eternally grateful that, because of God’s mercy and grace (the same He has shown throughout humanity’s existence), I ended up marrying my husband and becoming a mom to three beautiful blessings. I admitted to Abigail that I don’t know how exactly it all works; we have choices, but God is in ultimate control. But what I do know is that as God’s children, we can trust that He is working all things for our good and His glory. No matter how hard we try, we don’t have the power to thwart God's plans or purpose–praise the Lord!  Intersecting Faith & Life:How does knowing that nothing you can do can thwart God's plan give you the desire to walk in obedience to His will?Further Reading:Genesis 12 Unwavering Faith Amid Uncertainty Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  Trusting God When Peace Cannot Be Found 23.09.2026 7min

  When the world feels chaotic and peace seems impossible to find, where can you turn for relief from fear, anxiety, and uncertainty? News headlines, personal struggles, and troubling circumstances can leave our hearts unsettled. But the Bible reminds us that lasting peace does not come from our surroundings or from trying to control every situation. True peace comes through Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, and through trusting God even when life feels overwhelming. Isaiah 26:3 teaches that God keeps in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in Him. While the world cannot guarantee safety or calm, God offers peace that guards our hearts and minds through Christ. By asking God for His peace, focusing on Scripture, rejecting false sources of security, and practicing peace in our daily relationships, we can learn to rely on Him in troubling times. Even when peace cannot be found around us, we can seek the steady peace God provides. Highlights Why the world cannot provide the lasting peace our hearts desperately need How trusting God helps us find peace amid fear, chaos, and uncertainty What Isaiah 26:3 teaches about keeping our minds steadfast in God Why Jesus is the true source of peace and how His peace differs from what the world offers Four practical ways to trust God for peace when life feels overwhelming How prayer and studying God’s Word can calm our fears and remind us of His faithfulness Why Christians are called to practice peace and become peacemakers in their daily lives Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Trusting God When Peace Cannot Be Found By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.” -  Isaiah 26:3 Listening to the news and reading social media reminds us what a troubling world we live in, filled with wars, natural disasters, civil unrest, mass shootings, assassinations, sickness, disease, accidents, and much more. If we’re looking for peace in a world of chaos, we won’t find it there because the world can’t offer us something it doesn’t have to give. Peace isn’t something people can conjure up or find in things, situations, or even another person or group. It comes through only one source: Jesus, the Prince of Peace and Savior of the world. As Isaiah 9:6 describes, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Jesus Himself also assures us that He is our source of peace, saying in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Trusting God is where our hearts and minds find relief from the troubles, worries, and fears of the world we live in. The High Cost of Peace Jesus is the world’s source of peace, yet every day it seems millions are rejecting Him and His offer to give them peace. Rather than receiving His gift of peace, they put up a barrier of unbelief between themselves and God, isolating themselves from the peace they so desperately seek in the world. Jesus’ peace came at a high price, too, as Isaiah 53:5 explains, “But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds we are healed.” Still, His peace is what guards our hearts and minds while we live in a harsh and cruel world, as Philippians 4:7 explains: “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” 4 Ways to Help Us Trust God for Peace Some of us aren’t sure how to trust God in a peaceless world. The following are four ways to help us begin trusting God for peace when we cannot find it in the world. Ask God for His peace. Sometimes we believe God doesn’t want us asking for His help, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. James 4:2 describes why some lack peace: “You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet, but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God.” Focus on God’s Word and His promises. Reading and studying God’s Word fills our hearts and minds with His truth and unfailing promises, reminding us of His faithfulness and calming our fears. Proverbs 4:22 reminds us of the importance of feeding on them: “For they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body.” Resist following and practicing false offers of peace. Religions other than Christianity offer peace, saying it comes through various practices, including exercises, chants, and offerings. Although we may think some of these things are harmless, they can confuse our hearts and minds and lead us away from where true peace is found because there is only one way to find it. As Isaiah 59:8 describes, “The way of peace they do not know; there is no justice in their paths. They have turned them into crooked roads; no one who walks along them will know peace.” Practice peace in our daily lives. Jesus walked in peace while on earth, and we can choose daily to walk in and practice peace, too, by choosing it over conflict, anger, and offense. When confronted with situations that cause us to feel anxious and unsettled, we can choose to practice peace instead. As Jesus taught in Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” Intersecting Faith & Life: Are you experiencing God’s peace today, the peace that comes through knowing Jesus Christ? If not, receive it today by asking Him to come into your life. Further Reading: Finding Peace When Life Feels Out of Control Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  Coping with Jealousy in a Comparison-Driven World 22.09.2026 6min

  When you make a mistake and have to face the consequences, it can be easy to wonder whether God will still help you. Our poor choices can create difficult situations, strained relationships, and problems we cannot simply undo. But the consequences of our mistakes do not mean God has abandoned us. Scripture shows that even when we make wrong decisions, God can meet us in the middle of the situation and help us move forward. Joshua 10:6 shows the Israelites asking Joshua for help after their decision involving the Gibeonites left them facing an unexpected battle. Instead of leaving them to deal with the consequences alone, God provided help and gave them victory. Their story reminds us that God’s faithfulness is not dependent on our perfection. When we have made mistakes, we can bring our circumstances to Him, seek His guidance, take responsibility for our choices, and trust that He can still work through difficult situations. Highlights Why making a mistake does not mean God has abandoned you How our choices can create consequences we cannot simply undo What Joshua 10:6 reveals about God’s help in difficult circumstances Why taking responsibility for our mistakes is part of moving forward How God can work through situations created by our poor decisions The importance of turning to God instead of facing consequences alone Encouragement to trust God’s faithfulness even when you are dealing with the results of a mistake Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Coping with Jealousy in a Comparison-Driven WorldBy Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice” (James 3:16).  A sin I struggle with in my life is jealousy. I have often been jealous of others because they are happy and I’m not. I was talking to a friend a while ago about my jealousy issue because I was quite upset. Another friend of mine had the privilege of going to the once-in-a-lifetime Taylor Swift Eras Tour. This friend hadn't even been a fan for a year yet. I, on the other hand, have been a fan since I was eight years old, when her debut album was released. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to attend the Eras Tour because it was incredibly expensive and notoriously hard to get tickets. When my friend casually told me she had bought a ticket to see the Eras Tour, I was jealous, but also mad. Since I already struggle with depression, I am a pro at hiding my emotions, and I hid my jealousy from her. However, when I was talking to my other friend about it, he told me that my feelings were valid, but that the jealousy issue was something I would need to work on. He helped me understand exactly why I was jealous and mad, and how to cope with these feelings in a healthy way. I still struggle with feelings of jealousy at times, but I’m also aware of how bitter it can make us. It can also make us extremely unhappy. As my therapist friend told me, “Wouldn't it be better to focus on your own life rather than wanting what others have?” While this is something I’m still trying to apply, I am making small progress each day. Intersecting Faith & Life: Something else I have found helpful with my jealousy is studying what the Bible says and asking the Lord to help me with these feelings. The Bible tells us, “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice” (James 3:16). These are the words of James, the half-brother of the Lord, and we need to take them to heart. Whenever we have envy and selfish ambition, we will find disorder and every evil practice. I can certainly say James’s words are true because jealousy has never helped me in the slightest. Instead, it only makes our lives worse. Rather than enjoying our own lives, we will only focus on the things we don’t have. While there is nothing wrong with wanting better things in life, we don’t need to covet what others have or be jealous of others (Exodus 20:17). This is the challenge being placed before us today: we need to replace jealousy with contentment. As Paul says, “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it” (1 Timothy 6:6-7). Contentment can transform our lives into ones full of peace, serenity, and solace. By going to the Lord in prayer, being honest about our jealousy, and seeking His guidance in the Bible, we will begin to see our lives change. Our hearts will be less prone to lean toward jealousy and will begin to shift toward contentment. Ask the Lord to help you today and find inner peace in what He has given you in life. Jealousy is a common sin in many of our lives. Why do you think it is so easy to become jealous of others or what they have? Do you have a story of a time when jealousy turned you into somebody you are not? If so, what happened? How did you feel? What are some ways you can swap jealousy for contentment? Pray with me: Dear Jesus, my heart is prone to roam after jealousy. Please forgive me for this sin. I ask that You transform my heart into a heart of contentment. Turn my heart away from yearning after what others have. Fill my heart with contentment, hope, and peace. I give You all the praise and thanks, Lord. Amen. Further Reading: Exodus 20:17 Proverbs 14:30 1 Corinthians 10:13 James 3:14-15, 4:2-3 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  Find Hidden Treasures from God 21.09.2026 6min

  Where can you find God’s blessings when life feels ordinary, frustrating, or even painful? God’s goodness is often present in ways we overlook—the breath in our lungs, daily provision, protection, meaningful relationships, and quiet moments of peace. Like hidden treasures beneath layers of rock, these blessings become easier to recognize when we slow down and intentionally look for them. Job 28:10 reminds us that treasures can be discovered when we are willing to search for them. The same can be true of our relationship with God. Even during difficult seasons, He can be developing spiritual treasures such as patience, kindness, perseverance, and deeper faith. Most importantly, God’s presence is with us in the darkness. When we learn to look beyond our circumstances and seek God’s work in our everyday lives, we can begin to notice the countless ways He is supporting, protecting, and loving us. Highlights How to recognize God’s hidden blessings in everyday life Why slowing down can help us notice God’s goodness and provision What Job 28:10 teaches us about searching for hidden treasures How difficult seasons can produce spiritual treasures like patience and kindness Why God’s presence is the greatest treasure we can discover in times of suffering Practical ways to train yourself to notice God’s work instead of focusing only on problems Questions to help you recognize the people, promises, and blessings God has already placed in your life Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Find Hidden Treasures from God By: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading:“They tunnel through the rock; their eyes see all its treasures.”  – Job 28:10, NIV On a trip to Norway, I went through so many tunnels while traveling in cars and trains that I completely lost count. As I traveled through the tunnels, I thought about the incredible engineering required to blast through all that hard rock. I also thought about all the natural treasures that are hidden deep inside rocks. More than 4,000 different kinds of beautiful minerals and gemstones can be buried in rocks all around our planet. When people tunnel through rock, they may discover quartz, garnet, amethyst, and many more varieties of treasures. Job 28:10 points out that tunneling through rock reveals treasures. It’s necessary to make an effort to find treasures. But treasures are there, waiting to be discovered, when we’re willing to do the work of trying to find them. God is constantly pouring blessings into your life, and every single one of those blessings is a treasure. But some of them may be hidden until you make an effort to search for them. If you explore and ask God to help you find the treasures he has given you, you’ll start to see that God’s goodness is glittering all around you. God’s goodness is in the breath filling your lungs right now, and the strength in your legs that lets you walk across the room. You can see it when you enjoy a good meal, turn on the tap for clean water, or drive home safely without any trouble. Even a frustrating red light can be God protecting you from danger ahead, and a quiet, boring day can be God’s way of giving you peace. Once you start looking, you’ll see that God is taking care of you in countless ways every single day. Even when you find yourself traveling through a difficult season that feels like being stuck inside a dark tunnel, these hidden treasures are still there. In fact, some of God’s most valuable blessings are formed in the dark. Just as pressure and heat create diamonds deep beneath the earth’s surface, hard times can produce beautiful spiritual qualities like patience and kindness that help you grow in holiness. When you’re inside a dark tunnel of suffering in this fallen world, it’s easy to doubt God’s love for you. But if you look closely, you’ll find that God has placed the most valuable treasure of all – God’s presence with you – right there in the dark. By finding God’s presence with you, you can also discover God’s blessings for you, which you wouldn’t notice if you weren’t focused on your relationship with God. You have to change how you look at your daily circumstances so you can find treasures from God. Instead of just trying to hurry through your days, ask God to help you notice his work in your life. You need to look closely at your life while praying for God’s guidance to find the hidden ways God is supporting, protecting, and loving you right now. When you make an effort to seek God and look for the wonder of God’s work in your life, you can see all the blessings God is generously giving you. So, look beyond the surface of your life and seek God. Get excited about discovering all the beautiful, hidden treasures God has placed in your life! Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider how to find hidden treasures from God, reflect on these questions: What’s one treasure God has already given you that you might easily overlook if you’re too busy, but can find it when you let yourself rest and focus on God more?  When you look back at a past difficult season, what spiritual treasures did God develop in you through that hard time?  How can you train yourself to see God’s daily goodness rather than just focusing on your problems?  Who are the people in your life who you realize are blessings from God when you make time to reflect on them? How can you thank them, and thank God for them, today?  What’s one of God’s promises from the Bible that you can carry like a hidden treasure in your heart and mind this week? Further Reading: Isaiah 45:3 Colossians 2:3 Proverbs 2:4-5 Matthew 13:44 Psalm 119:162 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  Surprising Ways Pride Shows Itself 20.09.2026 7min

  Pride doesn’t always look like arrogance or boasting. Sometimes it shows up in quieter ways—talking more than listening, only investing in people who seem useful, or constantly saying there isn’t enough time for others. These subtle forms of pride can reveal that our attention is more focused on ourselves than on loving and serving the people around us. Philippians 2:3-4 calls Christians to replace selfish ambition with humility by considering others and their interests. Following Jesus means examining not only what we do, but also why we do it. When we become more willing to listen, make time for others, and engage with people without expecting something in return, we begin to reflect the humility of Christ. Recognizing subtle pride isn’t about condemning ourselves—it’s about allowing God to reshape our priorities, relationships, and hearts. Highlights How pride can appear in subtle ways we may not immediately recognize Why only engaging with people who are useful can reveal selfishness What listening more and speaking less can teach us about humility Why “I don’t have time” may actually reveal our priorities How Philippians 2:3-4 challenges us to consider others more important than ourselves Why honest self-examination is essential for recognizing pride in our lives Practical ways to replace selfishness and conceit with humility, generosity, and genuine care for others Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Surprising Ways Pride Shows Itself By Aaron D’Anthony Brown Bible Reading:“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look not to his own interests, but rather to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4, CSB) In his epistle to the church of Phillipi, Paul urges fellow believers to be “united in spirit” with one another (Philippians 2:2). He wanted everyone to be on the same page with what they believed and how they lived as Christ followers. He goes on to say that such a life is lived by esteeming others as more important than ourselves. Don’t look to what brings you the most glory; do what benefits others. We hear the same sentiment preached in church today, but how many of us live this out?  While our pastors talk about loving our neighbors, building the church up from within, and sharing the Gospel with nonbelievers, we don’t often seem to be on the same accord. Even if we do these things, our motivations are sometimes selfish. We should be prioritizing others, but really, we’re interested in ourselves.  I’ve heard believers say things like “I enjoy hearing myself talk,” or claim they don’t have time to hang out with other Christians. Then suddenly they’re dating someone, which requires a lot more time. Or perhaps the only time they show genuine interest in you is when you’re going through a hard time. Otherwise, you’re simply not important. Naturally, we won’t be close to or have deep conversations with everyone. However, it’s important to consider whether day-to-day relationships, conversations, and actions reflect selfish conceit or humility. Perhaps, we have such a hard time esteeming others as more important because in our minds, no one is more important than ourselves. Pride is often called one of the most deadly sins, maybe the most deadly. When we start thinking we know best, it becomes a gateway for other sins.  You might not think of yourself as prideful - I generally don’t - but if we’re being honest, we can all be a bit prideful sometimes. C.S Lewis said, “There is one vice of which no man in the world is free; which everyone in the world loathes when he sees it in someone else, and of which hardly any people, except Christians, ever imagine that they are guilty themselves” (Mere Christianity). The sooner we acknowledge this truth, the sooner we can change our thinking and get ourselves on one accord. Intersecting Faith & Life: Most people won’t need help identifying the major ways pride affects our lives, but who says pride can’t be subtle? Here are three ways we might not even realize: Only engaging with people who are useful. One mistake Christians make is only engaging with people at church who are useful. This means ignoring others until they join your team or become a friend of your friend, etc. Don’t we all have some measure of importance and worth given by God? Why not be open to speaking and engaging with people as the norm? For those who don’t, when you finally decide to interact, you risk making the encounter uncomfortable, and more than that, disingenuous.   Talking as opposed to listening. The Bible says to be slow to speak and quick to listen, but few live this out (James 1:19). God gave us two ears and one mouth. I’ve been told there should be a ratio for how we communicate: listen twice as much as you speak. Not making time for others. We’re probably all guilty of using the phrase, “I haven’t had the time,” but if we took time to consider what that statement means, we’d say something else instead. Everyone is given the same amount of time within a day. Twenty-four hours. However, we all use our time differently. The issue is not having enough time, but rather priority - what’s important and what’s not. Or at the very least, what is most important. We prioritize what we value most. Therefore, we should stop telling people we don’t have time to do that favor, read that book, or do that thing. We simply haven't made the time yet. That’s the honest answer. And the sooner we can be more honest, the sooner we can stop pride from stifling our callings. Further Reading: Proverbs 11:2 Proverbs 16:18 Proverbs 29:23 Jeremiah 9:23 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  What Childhood Prayers Teach Us about God’s Goodness 19.09.2026 6min

  How often do you stop to thank God for the prayers He has already answered? It’s easy to focus on what we’re still waiting for while overlooking the blessings, relationships, opportunities, and circumstances we once desperately asked God to provide. Remembering answered prayers can renew our gratitude and help us recognize God’s goodness in everyday life. Psalm 103 calls us to remember God’s benefits and not forget His goodness. Sometimes God answers prayers immediately, while other times His perfect timing looks different from what we expected. Childhood prayers for something as simple as a kitten or a puppy can become reminders of a faithful God who hears us and knows what is best. When we intentionally look back at what God has done, we can move from taking His blessings for granted to cultivating a heart of gratitude and trust. Highlights Why we can be quick to remember hardships while forgetting God’s goodness How answered prayers can become easy to take for granted What childhood prayers can teach us about trusting God’s timing Why God’s answer may be “not yet” rather than “no” How reflecting on past prayers can strengthen gratitude and faith Practical questions for recognizing the answered prayers you are living right now An encouragement to slow down, remember God’s blessings, and thank Him for His faithfulness Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: What Childhood Prayers Teach Us about God’s Goodness By Hannah Benson Bible Reading:“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s” (Psalm 103:2-5 ESV). How quick are we to remember the sins of others when they have wronged us, or to remember the darkest tragedies in our lives? Even if we long to forget the terrible things, they don’t often easily slip from our minds. Why is it then that we are so quick to forget the goodness of God? Why is it more difficult for us to remember all the good things God has done in our lives? Do we keep count? Do we thank Him for the blessings we take for granted? Do we remember the prayers we so desperately prayed that we are now living? Do we stop to thank the Lord for those, or do we take them for granted? I often find myself guilty of this. I can get so caught up in praying for the next thing that I forget to simply bask in the Lord’s presence and remember everything He has done. There is nothing wrong with praying for something. God loves to hear from us! But He also desires that we cultivate a heart brimming with gratitude, remembering the goodness He has graced our lives with. When I was a little girl, no more than 7 or 8-years-old, there was a mother cat who’d wandered the neighborhood for a few days, and we’d had a suspicion she’d had kittens somewhere in our backyard. My dad went out to look for them because we weren’t going to leave little helpless kittens alone (if they even existed). And oh, how I prayed they existed. I got on my knees behind my mom’s rocking chair, folded my hands, and pleaded with God for a kitten. It was such a small, yet sincere, request. Of all the things in life we actually need (jobs, food on the table, clothes), I love the sincerity and simplicity of my prayer as a little girl. Without a care in the world, I asked Him for what I truly wanted. Told Him how I longed for a kitten. I believed and hoped my daddy would find kittens so we could both save them and keep one (or two if we were really lucky). Yet when my dad returned inside the house, he had to break the news to this little girl’s hopeful heart that there were no kittens to be found. I didn’t understand. Why didn’t God answer my prayer with a yes when I’d prayed so hard? I couldn’t see it then, but God knew it wasn’t time. At the time, we lived in the suburbs. Only when we moved out to the country 2-3 years later did God see fit to bless us with two little kittens, one of whom is now a still very healthy 13-year-old cat. I also recall when I was a young teenager and prayed so hard for a dog. For years, our parents told us, “Maybe someday,” but to be honest, none of us knew if it would ever happen. But in 2020, when the world was thrown into chaos and turmoil, God told our mom that someday was now, and He directed our steps to the perfect little puppy for our family. Simple prayers. Yet prayers that God answered in His perfect timing. To be honest, as I reflect on these answered prayers among others, I realize how much I take them for granted. Yes, I’m grateful, but am I as grateful as I should be? How often do I stop to remember the prayers I prayed that I’m now living? Not often enough. Intersecting Faith & Life: I would challenge you to look at your life right now and reflect: what answered prayers are you living right now? Perhaps the job you have now, even if it feels stressful at times, is an answer to a prayer you prayed years earlier. What about your spouse who frustrated you this week? Wasn’t there a time you prayed for a husband or wife from the Lord? How many times do we take what we once prayed for granted? Let us resolve, by the grace of God, to cultivate a heart filled with gratitude for all the Lord has done in our lives. Pray with me: Lord, please forgive us for how quickly we forget Your goodness. Please open our eyes today to see the answered prayers we are living. Help us to slow down to bask in Your presence and thank You for all Your blessings. In Jesus’s Name, Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  Pausing for Peace 18.09.2026 6min

  When stress, worry, and constant responsibilities leave you feeling overwhelmed, finding peace can seem impossible. A fast-paced, achievement-driven life can keep your mind racing and make it difficult to slow down, be present, and remember where true peace comes from. Jesus offers a better way. John 14:27 reminds us that the peace Jesus gives is different from what the world offers. We don’t have to live consumed by fear, productivity, or worry about what comes next. By intentionally pausing, becoming still, and turning our attention toward God, we create space to recognize His presence and trust His provision. Even a few quiet minutes each day can help us step away from the noise, surrender our concerns, and receive the peace Christ freely gives. Highlights Why slowing down can help us recognize God’s presence and peace How a fast-paced, achievement-driven culture can fuel stress and worry What Jesus means when He says, “my peace I give you” in John 14:27 Why worry can pull us toward self-dependency and away from trusting God How Jesus’ teaching about the birds of the air challenges us to trust God’s provision The spiritual value of being still, present, and attentive to God Practical ways to make intentional pauses for peace part of your daily routine Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Pausing for PeaceBy Megan J. Conner Bible Reading:“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27 (NIV) It was a lovely summer day when I had the opportunity to take a day trip to meet up with a coworker in a city several hours from where I live. I had numerous reasons to rush through the event in order to get back to my desk and make up for the loss of “productivity” that evening. However, something prompted me to slow down and take advantage of the day away.  After the lunch meeting with my colleague, she recommended a trail nearby that I might enjoy before I had to get back on the road. Nature is very much my “happy place” (especially if it includes forests or water), so when she pointed me in that direction, I went along readily. With each step down the cobblestone path, my soul breathed a little easier. Covered by a canopy of lush green trees, the atmosphere was almost magical. As my attention was focused on the beauty surrounding me, the weight of my worries seemed to slip away. I became more and more present in the moment rather than consumed with all the concerns of the past or the future. There really was nothing else to do but be… Be in the moment, be present, and be at peace.  In our fast-paced, achievement-driven, bigger-is-always-better modern culture, many of us are burdened by overwhelm. Our minds race just as fast (if not faster) than the breakneck speed of life around us. As such, it is so easy for fear and stress to engulf our hearts and minds, drawing us deeper into self-dependency and further away from the one true source of our peace.  Jesus reminds us in the scripture provided today that He has not only extended His peace to us, but that through Him we do not need to be afraid. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27 (NIV) In a very practical sense, Jesus also addresses our tendency towards worry in Matthew chapter six, when He illustrates how God provides for the needs of His creatures.  “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” Matt. 6:25-62 (NIV) If the Lord is willing and able to so abundantly care for the birds of the air, is He not also able to care well for us? Of course He is… Why then do we have so much trouble believing in this provision? Because we do not allow ourselves to pause long enough to look up and look out at the blessings all around us. We keep our eyes on the prize and our hands to plow, never stopping long enough to realize there is a better way. The way is Jesus (John 14:6). There is something so pure and so beautiful when we intentionally choose to stop… to be still. In the quietness of moments like the one I mentioned earlier, we recognize our Creator in the midst of His creation, we rediscover hope, we step into peace, and we surrender to Him who is able to provide all that we need in trust (Eph. 3:20-21).  No matter how busy your life seems, or how many outside voices clamor for your attention, may I encourage you today to simply stop? Even if it is just for a few minutes each day, I strongly recommend you prioritize pausing for peace. There really is respite for the worried and weary. You simply have to be still.  Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you struggle with worry or weariness? Do you feel like the demands of your job or other responsibilities don’t allow for seasons of rest and stillness? If so, how does today’s devotional offer you an alternative viewpoint?  If you are willing, decide on one practice you can employ every day to set aside intentional time to pause and be still. Whether it is the first thing in the morning, an alarm you set as a reminder on your phone, or maybe even an agreed-upon time that you and a friend decide to commit to, I challenge you to prioritize incorporating some sort of pause throughout your day to stop everything and simply be… Be present, be still, and receive from God the gift of peace. Further Reading:Isaiah 26:3-4Psalm 29:11 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  The Importance of Avoiding Favoritism 17.09.2026 6min

  Favoritism in a family can leave lasting wounds, especially when a child feels overlooked, unwanted, or less valued than their siblings. Whether it happens through obvious comparisons or subtle differences in attention, playing favorites can damage relationships and shape how children see themselves for years to come. Scripture offers a clear warning: God does not show favoritism. James 2:1 calls Christians to reject favoritism, reminding us that partiality has no place in a life devoted to Jesus. Parents can be tempted to favor one child because of personality, responsibility, or shared interests, but every child needs to know they are equally loved and valued. For those who have experienced the pain of favoritism, God’s love offers hope and a foundation for healing. And when we recognize that our own favoritism has hurt others, humility, apology, and a commitment to change can help begin the process of restoration. Highlights Why favoritism can create lasting emotional wounds within families How playing favorites can affect both the favored child and overlooked siblings What James 2:1 teaches Christians about showing partiality Why God’s love provides hope for those who have felt overlooked or unwanted How parents can work toward showing each child equal love and value The importance of apologizing when favoritism has caused hurt Practical questions for recognizing favoritism and taking steps toward reconciliation Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: The Importance of Avoiding FavoritismBy Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism” (James 2:1).  Favoritism occurred in my family as my dad’s favorite was the oldest child, and my mom’s favorite was the middle child. As the youngest of three, I was never chosen as the favorite. Instead, I was seen as the “extra” child. As one can imagine, this has caused me to have long-lasting problems, such as a negative self-view and low self-esteem.  If you genuinely want to obey God, you must give up the practice of playing favorites. Favoritism only hurts your children and makes them second-guess themselves.  Studies have shown that the oldest child tends to be the favorite, often because they are more like their parents or take on more responsibilities than younger siblings. It is time to change these statistics; there needs to be equal love for each child. Within the family of God, there is no room for favoritism. The Apostle Paul tells us, “For God does not show favoritism” (Romans 2:11).  Showing favoritism will hurt your other children, either directly or indirectly. Not to mention, it could make the favorite overconfident, selfish, and self-absorbed. There needs to be equality amongst children. If you continue to play favorites, it will push your children away from you.  This has been true for me, as there was nothing I could do to get my parents to like me. I have gone through multiple years of therapy to help work through this issue. I have also sought out help from God. Through the help of the Lord, I have discovered that I am loved by Him. The Bible tells us we are God’s children and that we are dearly loved by Him (1 John 3:1).  The journey has not been easy, but Jesus has helped me every step of the way. While it is true that I will always have this wound from my parents, I can move on to new beginnings in the Lord. It also helps me share my story with others to help prevent them from showing favoritism toward their own children.  Intersecting Faith & Life: James 2:1 says, “My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.” This comes from the half-brother of the Lord. In no way does favoritism bring about the righteous life that God wants for us. It will only bring pain to our own lives and to the lives of others. Reach out to those you may have hurt with favoritism and tell them you want to talk. Apologize to them and ask if there is anything you can do to make things right. Acknowledge that you cannot change the past, but help them to know that you will no longer practice favoritism in the future. An apology and a promise to change for the future can go a long way toward healing someone's heart, whether they are in their childhood, teenage, or adult years.  Let’s pray: Dear Jesus, I want to let go of the toxic trait of showing favoritism. I don't want to play favorites anymore, as I see all the pain it causes. Please help me to love everyone equally. Forgive me for my sin, and please help those I have hurt to forgive me. Thank You, Lord. Amen. When you are tempted to show favoritism, what can you do? Is there a person you need to reach out to today to apologize to and make things right with? If so, when will you reach out to them this week?  Further Reading: Genesis 37:4 Deuteronomy 10:17 Acts 10:34 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  Finding the Beauty in Aging in an Anti-Aging World 16.09.2026 7min

  In a culture obsessed with staying young, aging can feel like something to hide or fight. But what does the Bible say about growing older? Scripture offers a different perspective, showing that aging can bring wisdom, spiritual maturity, and opportunities to invest in the next generation. Proverbs 16:31 calls gray hair a “crown of glory,” reminding Christians that growing older is not something to fear or be ashamed of. For Christian women especially, Titus 2 offers a meaningful calling: older women are to share their wisdom and faith with younger generations. Instead of letting culture define the value of aging, we can embrace each season of life as an opportunity to grow in godliness, make disciples, encourage others, and point our families toward Christ. Highlights How the Bible offers a different perspective on aging than today’s anti-aging culture Why Proverbs 16:31 describes gray hair as a crown of glory Learning to recognize the spiritual value of growing older in Christ What Titus 2 teaches about older women mentoring and encouraging younger women Why Christian women should embrace opportunities to share wisdom across generations How aging can become an opportunity to make disciples and invest in others Encouragement to renew our minds with God’s Word rather than allowing culture to define our view of aging Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Finding the Beauty of Aging in an Anti-Aging World By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading: “Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life” (Proverbs 16:31, ESV). Botox and injectables, facelifts, tummy tucks, retinol creams, under-eye concealer and color correctors, collagen and peptide powders, weight-loss products, teeth whitening, and veneer treatment advertisements bombard us continually through television, magazines, and social media influencers. There is no getting around it; we live in an anti-aging world. This was the topic of a recent women’s leadership training at my church, as we discussed the importance of Christian women embracing the high calling of Titus 2 (older women training the younger women). Do we try to run from the title of “older woman,” or are we enthusiastically embracing it because we know how much the Bible esteems growing older in the Lord? The book of Proverbs is full of so much wisdom and highlights the beauty of aging in chapter 16: “Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life” (Proverbs 16:31, ESV). The Bible does not tell us to cover up those gray hairs; it says that it is a crown of honor. We must embrace growing older because, as Christ followers, our gray hair should be a sign of a lifelong journey with Jesus! Now, I am not trying to create a law where there is none; there is Christian liberty when it comes to matters such as this. I dye my roots when I see gray hair poking through, but maybe I should pause and ask myself: How do I truly see aging?  Intersecting Faith & Life: I enjoy makeup and basic skincare, but I do believe it is important to ask the Lord to search our hearts so that we do not find ourselves running away from ‘father time.’ As Christians, we must see aging rightly, which should be positive, not negative. How has the world’s view of aging influenced the church? If we are not on our guard, we can be swayed by the world’s thinking. That is why it is so important to renew our minds with God’s word daily (Romans 12:1-2). I often wonder if the Christian generations before me have become entangled by the culture’s lies instead of standing firm against them. In my own personal experience, I have prayed for many years for an older woman in the faith to come alongside me. Oh, how I long for the wisdom of a woman who has been walking with Jesus for decades longer than I have! Sadly, there seems to be a generational gap missing from my own church, which is very Biblically sound. Instead of being tempted to complain about this lack, I am reminded that I must go to God in prayer, especially when it seems so out of reach for me to find a mentor who can come alongside me and teach me to love my husband and children and love Jesus and His word even more. But much more than that, I do not want to ignore my own call to make disciples. The world may recoil from the word “older,” but the Bible is clear that age reveals great wisdom and insight. I may not feel like an older woman in the faith, but age should never limit me from the Great Commission (Matthew 28). Instead of waiting for someone to pour into me, I must look for those whom I can pour into and encourage in the Lord. I should proudly embrace the title of “older woman” at just 40 years old because it truly is a high calling to train the younger generation in the Lord.  The call for women in Titus 2 is important within the church and desperately needed by our society. We need godly women (and men, too) who are strong in the faith to raise strong, godly children with strong, godly marriages. Imagine how much impact we would have in the culture if we embraced the good found in aging and taught our children the amazing plan the Lord has for us to grow in godliness, wisdom, and righteousness as we live in the here and now, with eyes and hearts also fixed on eternity with the Lord. Families like this could change the world for Christ! Lord, help us to see the beauty in growing older in age and in You!  Further Reading: Titus 2 Romans 12 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  What Do You Believe? 15.09.2026 6min

  What does it really mean to believe in God? It’s possible to believe that God exists without allowing His Word to shape the way we think, live, and make decisions. True faith goes beyond acknowledging God—it means trusting what He says and letting that belief change us. James 2:19 reminds us that even demons believe there is one God, challenging us to examine whether our faith is more than simply recognizing God’s existence. When we truly believe God, our lives begin to reflect that faith through our choices, obedience, relationships, and especially the way we love others. Following Jesus means allowing God’s truth to transform our hearts and our everyday lives. Highlights The difference between believing in God and believing God Why genuine faith should change the way we live and make decisions What James 2:19 teaches us about simply acknowledging that God exists How Abraham’s faith demonstrates what it means to believe God’s promises Why our actions can reveal what we truly believe in our hearts How unbelief can quietly influence our choices and priorities Why loving others is one of the clearest ways our faith in Jesus becomes visible Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: What Do You Believe? By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.” - James 2:19 What we believe about God is critical, determining how we live our daily lives and also determining our eternal futures. It’s wise for us to ask, “Do we believe in God or do we believe God?” because there is a difference. The first is believing there is a God, which is good and a start; the second is our believing God, meaning we believe what He says is true. The difference they make in our lives is evident, too. Believing there is a God doesn’t mean we believe Him and live out His words in our lives; believing Him changes us. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 describes, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” It’s not difficult, either, for others to see what we truly believe in our lives. For example, if we believe what health experts tell us about how to live our lives, then we exercise, eat healthily, and live according to healthy principles. So it is if we believe God. We’ll live according to His word, incorporating, practicing, and living out His godly principles in our lives. Believing God Changes Us In Luke 4:33-34, a demon recognizes who Jesus truly is. “In the synagogue, there was a man possessed by a demon, an impure spirit. He cried out at the top of his voice, “Go away! What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” Even a demon identified and believed in Jesus. Yet it’s through putting our faith in Him and believing His word that we are saved. The Apostle Paul describes in Romans 4:3, “What does Scripture say? ‘Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.’” Faith is critical, as Hebrews 11:6 explains, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” Paul wrote in Acts 16:31, “They replied, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.’” The “believing in” Paul is referring to is more than just believing God exists; it’s believing Him, rooted in faith that changes us. Keeping Unbelief at Bay Many people in the world acknowledge Jesus, yet do not believe what He says: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me’” (John 14:6). Unbelief disguises itself in many ways, and one way is by people thinking they believe, while in their hearts, they really don’t, as evidenced in the way they live.  When we truly believe God, our lives reveal it; it’s undeniable, but if no one knows or sees, then we want to revisit what we truly believe. As Hebrews 3:12 warns, “See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.” If we’re saying we believe God, yet making decisions based on our own and others’ human reasoning, living how we see fit, our actions are revealing a heart that doesn’t believe God.  When we believe Him, our lives reflect what our hearts truly believe. Proverbs 27:19 reveals, “As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart.” Believing God shows in the ways we think, how we choose to live, and especially by the way we love others. Jesus tells us in John 13:34-35, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you believe God so much so that it’s evident in your life? If not, ask God to help you believe Him, to believe the truth of His word, so that your life changes.  Further Reading: How Reading the Bible Keeps Us from Believing False Teaching Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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  What Are You Taking for Granted? 14.09.2026 7min

  It’s easy to take everyday blessings for granted until they’re suddenly gone. Our health, family, homes, abilities, relationships, and simple comforts can become so familiar that we stop noticing them. But seasons of loss or difficulty can remind us just how much we have and challenge us to live with greater gratitude for God’s goodness. Zechariah’s story in Luke 1 offers a powerful reminder about doubt, prayer, and learning to recognize God’s blessings. After years of waiting for a child, Zechariah struggled to believe God’s promise when the answer finally came, and his temporary silence gave him time to reflect. We don’t have to wait for something to be taken away before we appreciate it. By focusing on God’s generosity and choosing gratitude each day, we can become more aware of His blessings and trust His power and promises even when we don’t understand how He will work. Highlights: Why we often recognize the value of everyday blessings only after losing them What Zechariah’s story teaches us about doubt and trusting God’s promises Learning to appreciate health, family, relationships, and daily provisions Why gratitude can change our perspective during difficult circumstances How to recognize areas where doubt may be keeping you from trusting God Practical questions for identifying blessings you may be taking for granted Encouragement to praise God and give thanks for His goodness today Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: What Are You Taking for Granted? By: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading:“Zechariah asked the angel, ‘How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.’ The angel said to him, ‘I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their appointed time.’” – Luke 1:18-20, NIV I lost my voice for about one week after a severe cold. It was awkward and humbling having to communicate only through writing during that time. I had to type in chat during online meetings when everyone else was talking, and they had to wait for me since typing is much slower than talking. I had to write notes to family members and hold them up, or try to gesture or pantomime what I wanted to say. The experience taught me not to take my voice for granted. It’s amazing how quickly we realize the value of something only after it’s suddenly taken away. We go through life using our senses, our health, and our daily comforts without a second thought, assuming they will always be there. A similar thing happened to a priest named Zechariah in the Bible. He and his wife, Elizabeth, had prayed for a child for many years, but still didn’t have one by the time they grew old – much too old to have any children naturally. One day, however, the angel Gabriel appeared to Zechariah with incredible news: God had heard his prayers, and Elizabeth would give birth to a son. Instead of celebrating God’s goodness and thanking God, though, Zechariah doubted the wonderful message God had sent him. Zechariah asked Gabriel: “How can I be sure of this?” Because of his unbelief, God gave Zechariah a sign. He took away Zechariah’s ability to speak, so Zechariah would have to be silent until the baby was born. Imagine the sudden shock Zechariah must have felt. For nine long months, he couldn’t speak to his wife or friends. He couldn’t lead worship or share his thoughts. He had to use writing tablets and hand gestures just to communicate daily needs. Zechariah had taken his ability to speak for granted. More importantly, he had taken God’s ultimate power for granted. Zechariah’s forced silence gave him the time and motivation he needed to reflect, listen, and learn to appreciate God’s blessings. We can all sometimes act like Zechariah. God is constantly pouring blessings into our lives, but too often we focus on what we don’t have or doubt God’s goodness when we’re dealing with difficult circumstances. We may take our health, our families, our homes, our food, and even the breath in our lungs completely for granted. It usually takes a season when we’re missing something – like an illness, a financial problem, or a broken relationship – to wake us up and make us see how blessed we are because of God’s great love for us. Fortunately, Zechariah’s story doesn’t end in silence. When the baby was finally born, Zechariah asked for a writing tablet and wrote: “His name is John.” Then, Luke 1:64 records that: “Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue set free, and he began to speak, praising God.” Zechariah immediately praised God as soon as he got his voice back. He had learned not to take his voice for granted. God doesn’t want us to wait until we lose our blessings to start appreciating them. He wants us to live with gratitude right now. All we have to do to stop taking our blessings for granted is to stay focused on our generous God from day to day, and expect the best from God because he loves us! Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider why it’s important to appreciate your blessings rather than taking them for granted, reflect on these questions: When God answers your prayers, do you thank God right away, or do you find yourself questioning how God’s answers will really happen?  What’s one everyday blessing you currently enjoy that you rarely stop to thank God for? How can you give thanks to God today for that?  Looking back at your past, what is something you only truly appreciated after it was temporarily taken away?  In what areas of your life are you letting doubt prevent you from trusting God’s power and promises? Further Reading: Psalm 103:2 1 Thessalonians 5:18 James 1:17 Ephesians 5:20 Colossians 3:17 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.