The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

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• What to Do When You Feel Spiritually Unmotivated 19.07.2026 7Min.

  Have you ever struggled to open your Bible or felt disconnected from God? In today's Crosswalk Devotional, we reflect on Galatians 6:9 and discover that spiritual weariness doesn't mean your faith has failed. Even the most faithful believers experience seasons of exhaustion, discouragement, and spiritual dryness—but God invites us to keep taking small, faithful steps instead of giving up. Rather than striving for the perfect quiet time, God calls us to remain faithful in the little things. One verse, one prayer, or one quiet moment in His presence can become the beginning of renewed strength. Even when you can't see it, God is working beneath the surface, producing spiritual growth that will bear fruit in His perfect timing. Highlights: Discover why spiritual weariness is a normal part of the Christian journey—not a sign of failed faith. Learn what Galatians 6:9 teaches about perseverance when you feel spiritually exhausted. Be encouraged that faithfulness matters more than feelings or motivation. Find practical ways to reconnect with God through small, consistent daily habits. Understand how seasons of dryness often become places where God develops deeper spiritual maturity. Rest in the promise that God is producing a harvest, even when you can't yet see the fruit. Join the Conversation Have you ever gone through a spiritually dry season? What simple habit or Scripture has helped you reconnect with God when your motivation was low? We'd love to hear your story in the comments. Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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 to Do When You Feel Spiritually Unmotivated By Sarah Frazer Bible Reading:“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” - Galatians 6:9 (ESV) I didn’t want to read my Bible. That is something that is hard to admit, especially since I’ve been a Christian for over twenty-five years. Of course, it hasn’t always been this way. Many mornings, I wake up ready to open up God’s Word and dive in. On other days, I’ve woken up late, or weary, or both. The Bible sits on the table next to my favorite chair unopened for the day. The guilt washes over me, and I wonder if tomorrow will be better.  Only tomorrow isn’t better, and my life spirals into a pattern of being spiritually unmotivated. How do we keep going, keep having faith, and keep trusting God when our spiritual life feels empty? After a while, I’ve missed more than just a day, but a routine. After neglecting my time with God, I’ve seen a shift in my heart. Something is just… off.  Many spiritual leaders, teachers, and authors talk about these seasons. They often call this time in our lives the “wilderness” season. This metaphor comes from the stories in the Bible when God would lead people into a physical wilderness, with little water, food, or shelter. It is a spot where maybe God’s blessings seem nonexistent.  Our wilderness season isn’t something we rush through, muster through, or a time to abandon our faith. The hardest thing for me in a season of deep hardship, whether that is physically, spiritually, or emotionally, is that my motivation for the spiritual disciplines comes and goes. Our faith doesn’t feel vibrant, but dry.  Let me offer some encouragement right here: a lack of enthusiasm doesn’t mean a lack of faith; it just means you are human. Paul writes in Galatians 6:9 to the believers: “Let us not grow weary in doing good…” Paul acknowledged the possibility and likelihood of being weary. In fact, Paul also included himself in that category. He said, “Let us…” It was even possible and probably that Paul would grow tired.  Even faithful believers get exhausted! The answer Paul offers is not, “try harder…” but “don’t give up.” I’ll admit that in the middle of feeling fatigued, I always imagined God telling me to try harder, do better, and just move forward. In the middle of my messes and mistakes, God instead invites me to explore maybe why I’m so tired.  Some simple self-reflection with the help of God's Spirit can help us pinpoint a reason for our wilderness season. Maybe it is because of physical exhaustion. Life is full, and many times we enter a period of time where we can get very little sleep, and our bodies are just tired. Emotional heaviness can also cause stress and discouragement. Carrying the weight of emotional hurt and heartache, whether that is our own or others’, leaves us fatigued.  The dry seasons of life, especially our spiritual life, can sometimes be because of the repetitive nature of our lives. Getting up, doing the same thing, and repeating our days week after week, month after month, can wear us out. When we find ourselves in this type of routine, we might also place unrealistic expectations on what a quiet time with God “should” look like.  What do we do when we wake up each morning unable to motivate ourselves spiritually? First, we keep it simple and small. Read one verse. Write a verse on a card and keep it by your bed or in your bathroom. Take one moment of your morning and turn towards God. As you do this, remove the pressure to have the “perfect” quiet time. Or, better yet, don’t try to copy or emulate what your time with God used to be like.  Our faith is a growing faith, which means it changes. Paul’s answer to weariness was not to work harder, but not to give up. Showing up imperfectly is better than not showing up at all. Faithfulness goes much deeper than simple motivation. Paul says we will feel weary, but the harvest is coming. He says we will “reap,” which means there will be growth and fruit!  If you feel unmotivated today, you’re not alone. And you don’t have to have it all together to keep going. God simply invites you not to give up. To take one small step. To trust that even in this season, He is growing something you cannot yet see. Intersecting Faith & Life: When you feel spiritually unmotivated, what is one small, simple way you can turn your attention back to God today? Try simply to read a verse, or say one prayer on your way to work this morning. Put your Bible in a place where you drink your coffee or get ready. The audio version of the Bible is also a great way to connect with God on the go.  Further Reading:2 Thessalonians 3:13Psalm 73:26Philippians 1:6Psalm 126:5 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• How to Restore Trust When You've Lost It 18.07.2026 5Min.

  Have life's disappointments made it harder to trust God? In today's Crosswalk Devotional, we explore Matthew 13:20-21 and Jesus' parable of the rocky soil, revealing how hardship can quietly harden our hearts if we're not careful. Even when suffering, betrayal, or unanswered prayers shake our faith, God invites us to return to Him and rediscover the trust that trials may have stolen. Difficult seasons can leave us questioning God's goodness, but Scripture reminds us that He is never the author of evil. He is the Redeemer who works through every circumstance for our good and His glory. No matter how rocky your heart may feel today, God's grace can soften it again, allowing hope, faith, and new spiritual growth to take root. Highlights: Discover what Jesus teaches about rocky soil and a heart that struggles to trust during hardship. Learn how disappointment can quietly harden our hearts if we don't bring our pain to God. Be reminded that God is never the source of evil but the Redeemer who brings good from brokenness. Find encouragement that trust is restored by remembering God's unchanging character and faithfulness. Understand why bringing your doubts honestly before God is the first step toward renewed faith. Rest in the hope that your story isn't finished—God is still writing it. Join the Conversation Has a difficult season ever challenged your trust in God? What has helped you rediscover His goodness and faithfulness when life didn't go as planned? We'd love to hear your story in the comments. Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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: How to Restore Trust When You've Lost ItBy Kelly Balarie Bible Reading:“As for what was sown on thin (rocky) soil, this is he who hears the Word and at once welcomes and accepts it with joy; Yet it has no real root in him, but is temporary (inconstant, lasts but a little while); and when affliction or trouble or persecution comes on account of the Word, at once he is caused to stumble [he is repelled and begins to distrust and desert Him Whom he ought to trust and obey] and he falls away.” –  Matt. 13:20-21 AMPC Have you ever tried to dig a shovel into rocky soil? It’s torture. Bam! Bam! It’s nearly impossible. To hit rock is to be blocked. One can’t easily plant beautiful flowers when rocky soil blocks the ability to plant new life. The same goes for us when we are on rocky soil. Jesus said, “As for what was sown on thin (rocky) soil, this is he who hears the Word and at once welcomes and accepts it with joy; Yet it has no real root in him, but is temporary (inconstant, lasts but a little while); and when affliction or trouble or persecution comes on account of the Word, at once he is caused to stumble [he is repelled and begins to distrust and desert Him Whom he ought to trust and obey] and he falls away.” (Matt. 13:20-21 AMPC) We become rocky soil when what is hard and tough in life turns us hard and tough in heart. To be hardened to God because of trials and troubles means the soil of our hearts is rocky. Beautiful things can’t be as easily planted within us.  This is a problem – for me, I considered, as I read this verse. You see, after reading these words of Jesus, I could now see that the trials and tribulations in my life were causing me to stumble. Because I was beginning to “distrust and desert Him Whom (I) ought to trust and obey.”  Wow. God surely knows, I don’t want to fall away. But, after all that I had gone through… all I endured… all I had to endure in relationships… quietly, distrust was stealing my trust – and I knew it.Maybe I’m not alone in this. Maybe you, too, have had shockers in life… shock and awe when you got a medical diagnosis you didn’t expect. Shock when a friend turned to a foe. Shock when a dream suddenly ended. Shock when a child turns away from you. It is easy to lose trust after experiencing the shock of a carpet pulled out from under us. However, we are wise to remember: God is not the orchestrator of evil; He is the one who is for us. God is the one working all things together for good. Both Jesus and the Holy Spirit intercede for us.  I once heard a pastor say, “Devil, bad. God, good.” He’s right. God is good. God is just. God works all things together for good as we love Him and are called according to his purpose (Rom. 8:28). God is Redeemer. God is hope. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).  God uses even what is hard and bad for good. I can’t give up on God. And, neither can you. I can’t afford to spend even a day away from Him. Trust returns when we remember that God is good. When we believe there is hope. When we repent of unbelief and decide to break up with it. When we remember, He can do the miraculous. When we ponder how God used Jesus and where Jesus sits now, after hardship. God is not what happened to us; God is good.  Intersecting Faith & Life: What, in life, has happened to you that has made you lose trust? How have you subtly moved away from God? Can you let your pain go into His hands? Your need – to know? Your desire to have everything perfect today?  God is the Author and the Perfector; your story is not done yet.  This devotional is an invitation for you – to come back to Him.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• The Blessing of Being Empty 17.07.2026 7Min.

  What if your greatest spiritual growth isn't found on the mountaintops, but in the valleys? In today's Crosswalk Devotional, we explore Matthew 5:3 and discover why Jesus calls the poor in spirit blessed. Seasons of loss, uncertainty, and weakness often create the very space where God's presence, grace, and strength become most real. While it's natural to long for life's mountaintop moments, our deepest dependence on God is often formed during difficult seasons. When our hearts are emptied of self-reliance and worldly security, they become open to being filled with Christ. The valleys may not be easy, but they often become the places where our faith grows stronger and our relationship with Jesus grows deeper. Highlights: Discover why Jesus calls the poor in spirit blessed in Matthew 5:3. Learn how seasons of difficulty can deepen your faith more than seasons of comfort. See how Peter's failures revealed his need for God's grace rather than his own strength. Understand why childlike dependence on Christ is central to the Christian life. Be encouraged that God often uses life's valleys to draw us closer to Him. Find hope knowing that when we feel empty, God is ready to fill us with His presence and strength. Join the Conversation Have you experienced a season where God met you most powerfully in the middle of hardship? How has a difficult valley strengthened your faith and dependence on Him? We'd love to hear your story in the comments. Join the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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 Blessing of Being Empty By Hannah Benson Bible Reading:“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3 ESV). Have you ever considered that perhaps the blessing isn’t in the mountaintops but found in the valley? So many of us live our lives longing for the proverbial “mountaintops,” for the moments when everything is perfect. Or, at least, seems to be. It’s not wrong to pray and hope for good things. For good jobs, loving families, great friends. Besides, we know God loves to give good gifts to His children. But what if instead of living our lives longing for the mountaintops and enduring the valleys because we think we have to, what if we saw the valleys as a gift? Now, don’t get me wrong. The valley isn’t a gift because it feels good. If anything, it probably doesn’t feel very good at all. Instead, it’s a gift because the hard times are usually when we grow in our faith the most. Think about it. The disciples walked with Jesus for 3 years. Surely, their time walking physically with Jesus was the “mountaintops” of their faith. Everything was going swimmingly. They saw miracles, witnessed healings, and watched Jesus raise people from the dead. In their minds, Jesus had no doubt come to conquer the Roman Empire (Acts 1:6). But then Jesus died. Those 3 days before He rose again were the darkest days in history, and no doubt, the hardest times in the lives of His disciples at that point (Luke 23:44-45, John 20:19, Mark 16:10). But you know what? They grew more during those 3 days than they had in 3 years. Peter is just one example of this. Before Jesus’s crucifixion, he wrestled with pride and reliance upon his own strength, telling Jesus that “Though they all fall away because of you, I will never fall away” (Matthew 26:33 ESV). But in fear, he denied Jesus 3 times (Matthew 26:75).  We’ve all made promises on the mountaintops that we realize in the valleys we aren’t strong enough on our own to keep. Peter’s story is a reminder to us that our faith is sustained by God’s strength and grace alone, not anything we could do on our own. For the 3 years of Jesus’s ministry, they walked by sight. They had Jesus physically with them. But after His crucifixion in those 3 days where they didn’t understand what was happening and then later when He ascended to heaven, they had to believe what they couldn’t see. Consider this. When we’re walking with the Lord, and everything seems to be going great, perhaps we landed our dream job, or we were given a relationship that we’ve been praying for, in those moments, we are on the “mountaintops.” While I’m grateful for the “mountaintops” in life, I’ve realized that it’s in the “valleys” where I truly grow. Often on the mountaintops, we find ourselves filled with good things that we struggle to find room in our hearts for God. But in the valleys, when everything might be taken away from us, or we’re struggling, and our hearts are being emptied of the things of the world, that’s when our hearts may be more receptive to the Lord’s presence filling the empty spaces in our lives. It’s like the rich man and the poor man. In Luke 18, a rich man comes to Jesus and asks what he must do to inherit eternal life (v. 18). When Jesus tells him to keep His commandments, the rich man responds that “all these I have kept from my youth” (v. 21 ESV). Jesus then tells him that there is one thing he lacks: “Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me” (Luke 18:22). The Bible tells us that when the rich man heard this, he became sad because he was extremely wealthy. On the outside, he appeared to have everything he could ever want. He was “full.” Full of worldly possessions, perhaps power, of following his own path. Luke 18:24-25 continues: “Jesus, seeing that he had become sad, said, ‘How difficult it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!  For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.’” What is Jesus saying here? That if you happen to be wealthy, you won’t go to heaven? No, of course not. When we’re standing on the mountaintops and our lives are filled with such good things, sometimes, we may find it difficult to open our hearts to Jesus when our hearts are filled with things of the world. Earlier in Luke 18:16, 17, it says: “But Jesus called them to him, saying, ‘Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.’” Jesus commends childlike faith. In most cases, children are simple, carefree, and completely dependent on their parents to provide and care for them. When we have faith like a child, we recognize the true essence of our faith, which is full dependence on Jesus to accomplish what we cannot. Sometimes, we have an innate tendency to feel independent and empowered, but that way of thinking can be false when it leads us to place an emphasis on our strength above Jesus in us. Yes, God loves to give us good things. To bless us with moments on the mountaintops. But I’ve found that the greatest blessing is found in the valleys, when we realize God’s grace is the only thing sustaining us and we find ourselves empty enough to be filled by Him. If you are in the valley today, instead of viewing it as something you must endure, why not view it as a blessing? Don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying the tragedy we may be walking through may be easy or a gift in and of itself, but the result (which can often be a deeper closeness with God) is the true gift. Why not view our empty places as a gift and an opportunity to be filled with the presence of God? Pray with me: Father, thank You for the valleys that make me like a child again. Thank You for the seasons that strip away my false independence and remind me that I am sustained by Your grace alone. Help me to stop longing for the next mountain and instead look for Your presence right here, even in the empty spaces. Fill me with Yourself today. In Jesus’s Name, Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• You Are My Hiding Place God 16.07.2026 6Min.

  Where do you turn when life feels uncertain or overwhelming? In today's Crosswalk Devotional, we reflect on Psalm 32:7 and discover the comforting truth that God is our hiding place. Through the powerful story of Corrie ten Boom, we're reminded that even in our darkest moments, God remains our refuge, protector, and source of lasting hope. Life's hardships can leave us feeling vulnerable, alone, or forgotten. Yet Scripture reminds us that God's presence never leaves us. He surrounds His children with His love, strengthens us through every trial, and faithfully walks with us until deliverance comes. No matter what you're facing today, you can find peace by taking refuge in the One who never fails. Highlights: Discover what Psalm 32:7 teaches about God as our hiding place and protector. Learn how Corrie ten Boom's faith demonstrates trusting God through unimaginable suffering. Be encouraged that God's presence remains constant, even when your circumstances feel uncertain. Understand why God's truth is more reliable than our changing emotions. Find hope in remembering God's faithfulness through past trials as you face today's challenges. Rest in the assurance that God surrounds His children with His protection, peace, and unfailing love. Join the Conversation When have you experienced God as your hiding place during a difficult season? How has remembering His past faithfulness strengthened your trust today? We'd love to hear your story in the comments. Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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: You Are My Hiding Place, GodBy Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance” (Psalm 32:7).  Corrie Ten Boom was a strong follower of Jesus who lost everything to the Nazis. Her family protected Jews from being taken to Nazi concentration camps by hiding them. However, one day, they were discovered. Corrie, along with her family, was taken to various jails and concentration camps. Corrie’s father died in prison ten days after arriving, while she and her sister, Betsie, were taken to Ravensbrück concentration camp.  Betsie died while in Ravensbrück, which severely affected Corrie. The two sisters were extremely close and relied on one another. Corrie was later released from Ravensbrück by happenstance, which was later discovered to be a clerical error. However, we know this was God working in the situation; He was setting Corrie free from the concentration camp that had taken so much from her.  Upon returning home, Corrie noted that home didn’t feel like home anymore. She was waiting for Betsie or her father to show up, but they never did. For many of us who have lost loved ones, we know what this feels like. They have passed on, and we won’t see them again until Heaven.  Throughout Corrie’s time living under the Nazi regime, she never lost faith in Jesus. She knew Christ was with her. Even today, He is still right beside us as we face our own battles. Corrie’s book detailing her time under Nazi rule is called “The Hiding Place.” This was connected to how they would hide Jews in a special room in their house, which doubled as their watch shop. While this room kept the Jews safe, it was also God who was protecting them. God is our figurative and literal hiding place. We might not see it at present; however, when the time comes, we will see His safety, protection, and comfort.  Intersecting Faith & Life:  The Bible speaks of God as our hiding place: “You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance” (Psalm 32:7). David wrote this psalm, knowing that God would protect him from trouble and surround him with deliverance. Just as God did this for David, He will do the same for us.  Even when you might think God is far, He is near (Acts 17:27). During dark times, it can feel as though He is nowhere to be seen. These feelings are valid, but we must understand that God is greater than our feelings. We don’t need to base our knowledge of God on what we feel. Our feelings may be inaccurate or misleading.  Our feelings might tell us that God will not protect us from harm, trouble, or struggle, but we need to remember that He is our hiding place. He will protect us and surround us with His grace. Think about what you need today and present it to Him (1 Peter 5:7). Do not feel afraid to share your real feelings and the thoughts that are pulling you away from Him. God knows life can get hard, and our faith can waver from time to time. However, He doesn’t want us straying away from Him. He is our hiding place where we can go and find safety, security, and hope. Even if you may feel weak and tired right now, go to Him.  God walked Corrie out of Ravensbrück, and He will walk you out of this struggle ahead. I have seen it in my own life, and you probably have already seen it in yours, too. Rely on God’s past faithfulness when it seems like a prayer has not been answered in a long time. He will answer your prayers in time and surround you with songs of deliverance (Zephaniah 3:17).   Is God currently your hiding place? Why or why not? How can you build your trust in God today? Further Reading: Psalm 28:1-9 Psalm 36:5-9 2 Thessalonians 3:3-5 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• Grace in Abundance Is Available 15.07.2026 6Min.

  How do you find strength when life feels overwhelming? In today's Crosswalk Devotional, we reflect on James 4:6 and discover God's promise to give more grace to the humble. Whether you're facing illness, grief, uncertainty, or a season of suffering, God's sustaining grace is always greater than the burden you carry. Suffering has a way of exposing our weakness, but it also reminds us where our true strength comes from. Instead of relying on ourselves or becoming consumed by our circumstances, God invites us to come to Him with humble hearts, trusting that His grace is sufficient for every challenge. As we lean on Christ, He strengthens us, deepens our faith, and draws us closer to Him—even in life's hardest seasons. Highlights: Discover what James 4:6 teaches about God's abundant grace for the humble. Learn why humility positions us to receive God's strength during suffering. Be encouraged that God's grace is greater than any trial, hardship, or uncertainty. Understand how suffering can deepen your faith and draw you closer to Jesus. Find hope in knowing God's strength is made perfect in our weakness. Remember that you never have to carry life's burdens alone—God's sustaining grace is always available. Join the Conversation Where do you need God's grace the most right now? How have you experienced His strength carrying you through a difficult season? We'd love to hear your story in the comments. Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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: Grace in Abundance Is Available  By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading: “But he gives more grace. Therefore, it says, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble’” (James 4:6, ESV). One of my closest friends has been walking through a very heavy time regarding her husband’s diagnosis of MS. There are times when she opens up to me about her struggles with how it has impacted her marriage, and all I want to do is encourage her and help her carry the burden. The other day, I listened as she sobbed, and I tried my best to acknowledge the difficulty and pain, even if I couldn’t fully relate to this particular situation. To encourage her, I told her that in her repentance of complaining and repentance of discontentment in the midst of her suffering, I see so much beautiful humility and a greater trust is being formed in her. Because of that humility, we can rejoice in knowing that God has promised to give grace to the humble. “But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble’” (James 4:6, ESV). Intersecting Faith & Life: Some of us have been called to a greater measure of suffering than others, and instead of allowing the trial to embitter us or cause us to be anxious, we can be thankful that we will be recipients of God’s great sustaining grace in a greater measure than others. Yet, to receive that sustaining grace, we must remember to come to God humbly as we learn to lean upon Him for strength and trust that He is using suffering for a purpose. Pain and suffering are not something any of us look forward to, but while we live here in this fallen and broken world, it is inevitable. It is so easy to get caught up in the storms of our lives and lose sight of the hope that is available to us through Jesus Christ, and allow them to overtake us. Our trials are what the Lord is using to bring us closer to Him and conform us into His image. The Apostle Paul calls this “the fellowship of His suffering” (Philippians 3:10). Not only do our trials bring us closer to Christ, but they remind us that heaven is our true home and one day, our suffering will cease.  The suffering may not disappear in this life, but the good news is that Jesus is right there with us to walk through it together, and He has promised to empower us with His grace. In the midst of the pain, the temptation is to give all of our focus to the battle we may be facing and figure out ways on either how to escape it or fix it, but the Lord is calling us to run to Him in our weakness as we realize we cannot walk through any of it on our own. Let us run to Him and fall at His feet in humility, knowing that His strength is made perfect in our weakness.  God’s grace is sufficient, and He is our ever-present help in times of need, but sometimes our actions do not reflect these truths. It’s much easier for us to either complain about our stressful, painful, and difficult circumstances or try to take matters into our own hands to try to fix or change what seems to be causing us to feel so overwhelmed. What are you walking through right now that seems to be overwhelming or stressful? Grace in abundance is available to those who ask! We must learn how to ask for grace when we have reached our limit, or when we feel like we are being crushed under the weight of our suffering. God is so faithful to provide all things that we need because He is a gracious Father who cares deeply for His children. Come to Him as His child today, boldly and humbly asking for His sustaining and powerful grace to carry you through each challenging moment. Even if this season of suffering doesn’t have an expiration date on this side of eternity, we can run to our Father and ask for His sustaining grace that is more than enough. Further Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 Hebrews 4:16 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• Clothe Yourself with Christlike Traits 14.07.2026 5Min.

  What Does Colossians 3:12 Teach About Christlike Character? How do we become more like Jesus in our everyday lives? Today we explore Colossians 3:12 and discover what it means to "clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." Rather than trying to change through willpower alone, God invites us to allow the Holy Spirit to shape our hearts so our character reflects Christ. Growing in Christlike character is a daily choice. As we intentionally practice compassion, humility, patience, kindness, and gentleness, these virtues become more than actions—they become part of who we are. This devotional reminds us that spiritual maturity isn't about perfection, but about consistently choosing to respond as Jesus would and trusting God to transform us from the inside out. Highlights: Discover what Colossians 3:12 teaches about living with Christlike character. Learn how compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience reflect the heart of Jesus. Understand why spiritual growth requires intentional daily choices empowered by the Holy Spirit. See how practicing Christlike virtues transforms both your heart and your relationships. Be encouraged to rely on God's strength instead of your own as you grow in faith. Find practical ways to demonstrate Christ's love through your everyday interactions. Join the Conversation Which Christlike virtue—compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, or patience—is God inviting you to grow in today? How have you seen the Holy Spirit transform your character over time? We'd love to hear your story in the comments. Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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: Clothe Yourself with Christlike TraitsBy: Michelle Lazurek Bible Reading:“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” - Colossians 3:12 One Sunday, I got dressed to go to church. I pulled out top after top, trying everything on, but nothing fit. With a pile of clothes and empty hangers on my bed, I became frustrated. Finally, I pulled out a top that was one size too large, a size I had worn when I was several pounds heavier. I put it on—it was a perfect fit!  For months, I had breezed by that larger top as I shopped in my closet for the perfect outfit. I didn't want to admit that perhaps I needed a bigger size. However, once I was able to accept that maybe my body wasn't what it once was years ago, and put on the larger top, my frustration subsided.  After that day, I made peace with the fact that I needed a larger size in clothes. I got rid of all my clothes that were a size smaller and purchased larger tops. Once I accepted my reality, wearing the larger top wasn't a big deal. In fact, I felt comfortable in it. With clothes, it's not always about the look that's the most important. It is most important about how I feel when I’m in those clothes. While I may have needed a larger top to fit my slightly heavier frame, I became so comfortable wearing a larger top that it wasn't even a problem after a few weeks. The above verse tells us that we are to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. These are all the attributes of Christ and a manifestation of the Spirit in our lives. Just like regular clothes that we put on each day, it's not always about how they look, but rather how I feel when I'm in them.  Even in situations where it’s difficult to demonstrate compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, or patience, the more that I choose to exude those things in my life, the more comfortable I'll become with them. The more I act in accordance with those virtues, the more they will become like a part of me. Soon, I won't have to force myself to act within these virtues; it will become a natural part of me. Jesus didn't have to force himself to act out these virtues. It was an embodiment of who he truly was. His character exuded traits of humility, compassion, and kindness, among other things. Jesus desires for us to exude the same virtues in our lives as he did with his.  But this takes intention and action. I must act with intention when it comes to putting on these virtues. If I want to clothe myself with these things, I must make them feel as if they are a natural part of me. I must exude them and allow them to become part of my nature. When I'm able to do this, they will become such a part of me that I won't even think twice about using these character traits in my life. Out of the virtues listed above, which one do you find most difficult to demonstrate? If the most difficult virtue for us is humility, find ways in which to humble ourselves. It may be as simple as allowing someone else to go ahead of us, even when they have many more items to check out at the supermarket.  It may mean controlling ourselves when someone cuts us off in traffic. It may mean being kind to someone who doesn't deserve our kindness. Whatever action it may be, ask the Holy Spirit to show us what action and to whom we must demonstrate it.  The more we act out of our comfort zones, the more these virtues will become a natural part of our lives. Soon, they will become such a part of us that we won't think twice about exuding these character traits in life. Not only is this the true demonstration of Christ's likeness in our lives, but it may also draw others to Christ because of our actions and attitudes. Father, let us clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, patience, and gentleness. Allow them to become a natural part of our daily lives. Let our first instinct to be one of these traits, rather than our own selfish desires. Amen.  Intersecting Faith & Life: Which of the above virtues do you have the most difficulty demonstrating in your life? Pray and ask God to show you someone whom you can demonstrate that difficult trait to today.  Further Reading:Philippians 2:6-7 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• When You’re Prone to Wander 13.07.2026 6Min.

  ike a loving shepherd who keeps His sheep close, God gently redirects us when we begin drifting toward temptation, unhealthy desires, or paths that lead to disappointment. While His boundaries can sometimes feel frustrating, they are expressions of His love. He sees dangers we cannot see and lovingly guides us back to the path that leads to life and lasting joy. When we experience delays, closed doors, or the gentle conviction of the Holy Spirit, we can trust that God is not withholding good from us. Instead, He is protecting us and inviting us to remain close to Him, where we discover security, purpose, and the fullness of His presence. Highlights: God's guidance is an expression of His love and protection, not punishment. Psalm 16 reminds us that true joy and fulfillment are found in God's presence. God often redirects us when we begin wandering toward temptation or unhealthy desires. Delays, closed doors, and conviction can be evidence of God's loving care. Staying close to God allows us to experience His peace, wisdom, and lasting joy. We can trust that God's boundaries are always for our eternal good, even when we don't understand them. Join the Conversation Have you ever looked back and realized God was protecting you through a closed door, delay, or unexpected change in direction? How has staying close to Him brought greater peace and joy in your life? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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 You’re Prone to Wander By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading:“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:11 ESV).    I recently learned something about myself—and my Savior—from watching my black cat, Mowgli.   Each morning, I take Mowgli out on the patio with me so we can enjoy the cool of the morning. Mowgli has to be on a leash every time he’s outside, even if I’m right next to him, because he is afraid of other people and sounds he can’t identify. When he becomes frightened or when he starts to wander and his leash wraps around something and he suddenly feels restrained, he will panic, struggle out of his harness, and try to run away.  For the most part, Mowgli and I enjoy peaceful mornings outside together as I work on my laptop and he sits contentedly on the patio, leash securely attached. When he tries to get a little further away from me to explore, I will say, “Not too far, Mowgli” and tug on his leash.  But now and then, when a hummingbird swoops in low to tease him, or when a critter is rustling in the leaves nearby, he will lunge forward, panic at his sense of restraint, and wiggle quickly out of his harness and make a run for his potential kill. After I catch him, he’s very angry to be restrained. I bring him back inside and tell him firmly, “No going outside again if you can’t stay in your harness.”  Today I found myself saying to him, after he was back inside and whining that he couldn’t go out again, “Why can’t you stay in your harness? Don’t you know I want to keep you close so I can keep you safe?” Oh, how God must want to tether my heart to Him to keep me safe as well. In Psalm 16, David—who knew what it was like to be hunted like a wild animal, to run for his life from King Saul, who wanted him dead—said this about the security of being tethered closely to his God: “You make known to me the path of life” (in other words, “You know how to keep me safe and alive). And David sang, “In your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” David was saying,” I am not only safe and secure in Your presence, but I am full of joy when I’m close to You, and I’m able to experience eternal pleasures.”  Intersecting Faith & Life:    How often have I tried to wander too far from God’s instruction, too close to temptation, and too close to something I might start loving more than Him, and He gently pulls me back to His side? How often has my Lord seen me try to escape the harness of His love and pursue something that will never satisfy? Certainly, He wants to keep me close to His side so I will be content and can enjoy life with Him. When have you sensed God restraining you as you started to wander from Him? What might God be protecting you from in the disappointments and delays you are experiencing?  Can you, too, see how God’s restraints on us—what He keeps us from, what He won’t allow us to have or go near—are not restraints to punish us or make our lives miserable? He knows what’s best for you and me, and He wants to keep us close so we are not only safe, but filled with joy at being near His presence. When you sense that gentle nudge backward, that might feel frustrating because you can’t get ahead to what you want, will you trust that God knows exactly what He’s allowing—and not allowing—for your eternal best and for your pleasures forevermore, not just temporarily.  Lord, Your Word says in Your presence is abundant joy. Why would I ever want to wander? Keep me close to Your side, ever bound to You so that I can experience Your very best for me and enjoy Your company like no other.  Further Study:Psalm 71:15 For daily encouragement to stay close to your Savior, see my book, 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.
• Encased by the Father’s Love 12.07.2026 6Min.

  Drawing from David’s life as a shepherd and later as Israel’s king, this devotional paints a beautiful picture of God's care. Just as shepherds built protective hedges around their sheep at night and positioned themselves as the gate, God lovingly surrounds us with His protection. He doesn't simply guard us from afar—He walks beside us, shielding us from the enemy's lies while gently directing our steps through every season of life. When anxiety tempts us to rely on our own understanding, we can rest knowing we are never navigating life alone. God's hand remains upon us, leading us with wisdom, protecting us from danger, and giving us the freedom to follow Him with confidence. We don't have to live in fear or constantly anticipate every possible threat because our Good Shepherd has already gone before us. Highlights: God surrounds His children with His loving presence, protection, and guidance. Psalm 139 reminds us that God is always before us, behind us, and actively involved in our lives. David's experience as a shepherd illustrates God's protective care like a hedge surrounding His sheep. God's presence guards us against fear, anxiety, and the enemy's deception. We can trust God's gentle guidance instead of relying solely on our own understanding. Because God walks with us, we are free to follow Him without living in constant fear. Join the Conversation When have you experienced God's protection or guidance during a season of uncertainty? How does remembering that God surrounds you with His presence give you peace today? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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: Encased by the Father’s Love  By Jennifer Slattery Bible Reading:You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. - Psalm 139:5 NIV This has been an unsettling and confusing season where I’ve questioned my perspective and the path forward in a highly consequential area. I know God is leading, watching over, and blessing me, but my emotions don’t always align with what I know is true. Sometimes, at night, when I’m trying to sleep, the stress and unknowns of this situation pull me into an anxious spiral. In that space, there’s a part of me that fears getting pulled into the devil’s deception, in part because I recognize how easy it is to convince myself that following my preference is God’s leading.  That’s a dangerous place to be. It leaves me vulnerable to the enemy’s schemes. Yet, today’s verse reminds me that I’m well-protected by the One who knows me, remains with me, and shields me from what Scripture calls the devil's “flaming arrows.” Lies he aims at my soul to draw me away from Christ and His life-giving truth.  David, ancient Israel’s second king who wrote the passage from which today’s verse comes, understood how it feels to find yourself under attack—by the devil, and those he uses to carry out his will. For over a decade, he lived as a fugitive, hiding in caves and even in Philistine territory, for fear of death. During that season, numerous people betrayed him, and he often felt alone and as if no one cared about him. Those were the statements his emotions made when life felt hard, exhausting, and his situation uncertain.  But even when his heart cried out for relief, he recalled the truth. He knew how to preach to his soul, a practice we see in many of the poetic prayers preserved in Scripture.  Scholars believe he wrote Psalm 139 after he’d assumed the throne and his life became more stable—with a few bumps along the way. Standing on the other side of intense suffering, he was able to look back and reflect upon how God had remained present and faithful each moment of his life—from before he took his first breath.  The Lord didn’t guide him from a distance. He came close and surrounded David with His strong, loving, and protective presence.  God “hemmed” David in. In the original Hebrew, one could state today’s verse as: Behind and before you have hedged me and laid upon me Your hand.” You may have heard the phrase, “a hedge of protection.” That analogy likely came from today’s verse. And I wonder if David’s statement came from his experience as a shepherd, where, at night, he would’ve created a literal hedge of thorns and branches that formed a makeshift pen for the sheep under his care. For added protection, the shepherd often slept on the ground, forming a gate with his body.  Intersecting Life & Faith: This rich historic imagery, when applied to today’s text, reminds us that the Lord surrounds us like those thorny branches that surrounded sheep. He is our shield, strong tower, fortress, and defense who hides us in the shadow of His wings—another picturesque symbol of His protective stance over His children.  But notice, He also places His hand upon us. Whenever I read this, I’m reminded of how I guided and protected my daughter when she was learning to walk. She’d gone from strangle-gripping my finger to releasing my hand and toddling off in exploration. I wanted to give her as much freedom as developmentally appropriate while also keeping her from falling into sharp corners or getting too close to the stairs.  My solution? To place a gentle hand on her head, remaining alert to when I needed to direct her from danger and back to safe exploration.  Speaking of sheep, shepherds, gates, and exploration reminds me of Jesus’ analogy in John 10, when He said His sheep would go in—to the pen—and out to find pasture. His words speak of freedom and the rhythm of coming into the “sheepfold” for the spiritual nourishment and rest we need, then leaving to explore the wide-open spaces He’s provided.  But even when we exit the pen, we remain well-protected, whether the threat comes from the devil and his minions or some other frightening or dangerous encounter. God hems us in—by His power and love.  By His very self.  This gives me the peace to follow, knowing I don’t have to remain hyper vigilant, scanning the horizon for every possible threat. I simply need to remain in step with the One who matches His steps with mine.   Further Reading:Psalm 139:1-24Psalm 125:2 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• Let God Prune Your Life 11.07.2026 6Min.

  God’s pruning process can feel difficult, but it is always guided by His love and purpose for our lives. In John 15:1-2, Jesus reveals that God is the gardener who carefully removes what prevents us from growing and producing lasting fruit. While pruning may involve letting go of things we value, God’s work is never meant to harm us—it is meant to help us become more fruitful. Just as a gardener trims away unnecessary branches to help a plant thrive, God sometimes removes distractions, unhealthy patterns, or even good things that keep us from experiencing His best. He knows where our energy is being spent and what needs to change so we can grow deeper in our relationship with Him. Although God’s pruning can be painful, we can trust the One doing the work. Our Heavenly Father sees the bigger picture and lovingly clears space for spiritual growth, renewed purpose, and the fruit of the Spirit to flourish in our lives. When we surrender what He asks us to release, we make room for greater dependence on Him. Highlights: God prunes our lives because He desires for us to grow and produce lasting spiritual fruit. A crowded life can spread our energy too thin and distract us from what matters most. God may remove both unhealthy things and even good things that keep us from His best. Pruning requires trust because God sees the growth and purpose that we cannot yet see. Letting go of what God removes creates room for deeper faith and transformation. The fruit of the Spirit grows when we remain connected to God and allow Him to shape our lives. Join the Conversation What is one area of your life where God may be inviting you to let go, create space, or trust His pruning process? How can you surrender that area to Him today? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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: Let God Prune Your LifeBy: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading:“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” – John 15:1-2, NIV  Walking through a botanical garden, I noticed a pile of green stems, branches, and buds that had been cut off various plants and scattered on the ground. It seemed at first like someone had vandalized the garden. Just as I started to get angry about what I thought was a crime, I noticed a gardener at work farther down the garden path. He was cutting off parts of plants on purpose! That reminded me that pruning is actually healthy for plants, no matter how hard it may look for them to be cut. Gardeners prune plants to give them the energy and space they need to bloom fully. Pruning helps plants reach their full potential.  Jesus reveals in John 15:1-2 that God prunes people. God cuts off what isn’t healthy and productive in our lives and gives us the help we need to be as fruitful as possible in our lives.  In the plant world, a vine only has a certain amount of sap to give to its branches. If that sap is sent to 50 different tiny branches, none of them will produce big, juicy grapes. They will all be small and struggling. But if the gardener cuts those 50 branches down to five, all the energy from the sap will go into those five branches. The result will be fruit that’s healthy and sweet.  The same is true for your soul. You only have so much energy. If your schedule is cluttered with too many activities, your limited energy will be spread so thin that you’ll become exhausted. You’ll be busy but not fruitful in the way God intended. Even though you’ll be doing a lot, you won’t be accomplishing what matters most from God’s perspective. That can all make your spiritual life feel like a wilted plant. You’ll feel burned out and unable to connect with God in the ways that will help your soul bloom fully.  Sometimes, God asks you to step away from things that are clearly unhealthy. It’s easier to do that than to step away from good things God sometimes leads you away from, like a job that pays well but pulls you away from your primary calling, or a friendship that you’ve outgrown. When God prunes parts of your life, he does so because he wants to give you more blessings – but first, you need more space in your life to receive those blessings.  Pruning can hurt. It can feel like you’ve lost an important part of your life, or even an important part of who you are as a person. But remember who the Gardener is. It’s your loving Heavenly Father, who has good purposes and plans for you. God doesn’t just hack away randomly; he prunes precisely what’s best for you to grow to reach your full potential.  When God prunes your life, he’s clearing the way for a season of growth that you can’t even imagine yet. He wants your life to be like a beautiful garden that fulfills you and pleases him as he sees his good design for your life become a reality. You need to cooperate with God for that to happen, however. It’s vital to be willing to let go of whatever God wants to prune out of your life.  So, take an honest look at your life right now. What’s taking the energy away from your relationship with God? Let the Master Gardener do his work to prune it away so you can grow and thrive!  Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider how pruning is important for you to grow to reach your full potential, reflect on these questions:  If you looked at your schedule as a garden, which areas feel the most overgrown or crowded right now?  What’s one unhealthy activity you can prune out of your schedule this week to make more room for something that will help you grow closer to God?  What’s one activity in your life that’s good but still might be keeping you from experiencing God’s best? How can you let go of it to make room for something better?  When you feel God pruning something away from your life, how can you resist the urge to grab onto it and instead trust God to take it away?  What kind of fruit of the Spirit (like patience, kindness, or peace) do you want to see more of in your life this season?  Further Reading:Hebrews 12:11Proverbs 3:5-6Galatians 5:22-23Isaiah 58:11Philippians 1:6 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• God Is Not Rushing You 10.07.2026 7Min.

  The invitation God gives us is often the opposite of what our instincts tell us. When problems arise, we want to fix, plan, and act. But God invites us to pause and remember that He is already present and working. Time spent with Him is never wasted; it is where our hearts are renewed and our souls are restored. God is not asking us to accomplish more to earn His love. He is inviting us into relationship with Him. Whether it is thirty minutes or just a few quiet moments throughout the day, sitting in God’s presence, reading His Word, and praying allows us to step away from the rush and experience His peace. Jesus Himself was never hurried or driven by the need to prove His worth through productivity. Through Him, we are reminded that we do not have to carry burdens God never intended for us to hold. When we return to Him, we find the rest and strength we need for each day. Highlights: God does not measure our faithfulness by how busy we are, but by how closely we walk with Him. Isaiah reminds us that true strength comes through returning to God, resting, and trusting Him. Productivity can become a burden when we believe our worth depends on what we accomplish. Spending quiet time with God restores our hearts and helps us recognize His presence. Jesus invites the weary and burdened to come to Him and receive rest. Slowing down creates space to hear God’s voice and trust His direction. Join the Conversation Where do you feel the most rushed in your life right now? What would it look like to intentionally slow down and invite God into that space? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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:   God Is Not Rushing YouBy Sarah Frazer Bible Reading:“For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, ‘In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.’ Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him.” - Isaiah 30:15, 18 My daughter does not like to be rushed. In so many ways I am the same way. When planning things I always give myself extra time. American culture is one that is governed by time. Events start on time and we complain if we are made to wait. It is easy to fall into the mindset of rushing when being dictated by the clock.  Rarely do people have time to rest, be quiet, and wait. Me included. My days are often packed with endless activities and to-do lists. For so long if I didn’t do anything on a particular day - that day felt unproductive. My to-do list can be like a taskmaster, running my day-to-day life. Somewhere along the way, I started to believe that a full schedule meant a faithful life—and that slowing down meant I was falling behind. In Isaiah 31 we read the words: “in repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength…” God’s people, the Israelites, had been running away from God, not toward him. They were about to be attacked by their enemies, but instead of going to God, they turned to other allies. They tried to fix things on their own.  Isaiah, the prophet, spoke from God to tell the people that rescue would come a different way. It would come through returning to God, resting. This is counter intuitive, isn’t it? We often think the opposite: the way out of trouble is to run, move, and act! God, though, wasn’t asking for more effort but for them to return to Him. While they were rushing to solve their problems, God was inviting them to be still. You and I are the same. We rush to fix problems, stay productive, and make sure we don’t let anything “fall through the cracks.” How often do we believe that faithfulness is the same as being busy? For so long, I have believed that my purpose in life - why God loved me and what God wanted from me - was to be productive. Faithfulness isn’t about that at all.   Friend, God invites us to return to him. How do we do this? Begin by sitting with God. That’s right.  Stop at some point in your day (each day) to just sit and be with God.  Don’t scroll. Don’t move. Just be still. Time in God’s presence is not wasted time—it is where our souls are restored. While you are sitting there, learn the value of not talking, thinking, or worrying. During that time, use a few minutes to be in His Word. Don’t rush through a reading of the Bible, but linger with it. Listen to God’s voice as you read the words (or listen to the audio). As you do, let your heart naturally speak to God in prayer. Start a conversation with God. Maybe it will be about what you read, but mostly it can be about what is on your heart. Embrace the quietness, if possible. God is not asking you to do more—He is inviting you to be with Him. Those moments, whether they are thirty minutes or 3 minutes, can make such a difference in our day. Many of us are tired not because we’re doing too little, but because we’re carrying what God never asked us to carry. Jesus says in Matthew 11:28-30,  “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” God is not hurrying us along. He is gently inviting us to return, to rest, and to trust Him right where we are. As we learn to slow our hearts today, may we learn how to step out of the rush and into His presence. God can teach us to trust Him in the quiet places. This stopping, even for a moment, means we don’t have to strive; God is already near. Intersecting Faith & Life: Jesus was never hurried, rushed, or needed to prove His worth by His productivity. You don’t either. As you start your day, remember to slow down and spend a few moments in prayer. Ask God to help you have strength for your day. In the dark at night, lift your heart to God again, asking Him for peace as you sleep. Where in your life do you feel the most rushed right now—and what would it look like to intentionally slow down and invite God into that space? Further ReadingPsalm 46Luke 10:39-42Mark 6:31Matthew 11:28-30 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• One Thing That Keeps Us Close to God 09.07.2026 4Min.

  As followers of Christ, we are not called to fix everyone or be close friends with everyone, but we are called to love as Jesus loved us. Because Christ showed us grace while we were still sinners, we can extend kindness, prayer, and compassion to others. When we remain rooted in God’s love, His love can flow through us. Highlights: We cannot effectively give love to others unless we first receive and understand God’s love for us. God’s love is revealed through the way believers treat and care for others. Jesus modeled love by moving toward people who were hurting, rejected, and imperfect. Loving others does not mean approving everything they do, but it does mean responding with grace and compassion. Remaining connected to God’s love allows His character to shine through our actions. Join the Conversation How does understanding how deeply God loves you change the way you love others? What is one way you can allow God’s love to flow through you today?   Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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: Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• An Undivided Heart 08.07.2026 6Min.

  An undivided heart begins with wholehearted surrender to God. Based on Psalm 86:11, this devotional explores the tension every believer experiences between pursuing God and being drawn toward the distractions and desires of the world. While our hearts are naturally prone to wander, God's faithfulness continually calls us back, inviting us to rely on His Spirit rather than our own strength. God doesn't abandon us when our affections become divided. Like the Good Shepherd who searches for the wandering sheep, He lovingly pursues us, reveals the areas where we've drifted, and offers grace to restore us. Through prayer, repentance, and daily dependence on Him, we can ask the Lord to transform our hearts so that our love for Him becomes our greatest desire. His invitation remains simple and powerful: seek Him, and He will meet you. Highlights: Our hearts naturally struggle between surrendering to God and pursuing worldly desires. God lovingly reveals areas where we've drifted and calls us back through His grace. An undivided heart is cultivated through dependence on God's Spirit, not personal effort. Jesus faithfully pursues those who have wandered and welcomes them back with compassion. Prayer and surrender allow God to shape our hearts into wholehearted devotion. Join the Conversation Are there areas of your life where you feel your heart has become divided? What would it look like to fully surrender those areas to God today? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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: An Undivided HeartBy Megan J. Conner Bible Reading:“Teach me your way, LORD, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.” Ps. 86:11 (NIV) How many of us can relate to this scripture? I don’t know about you, but sadly, I have wrestled with divided affections more times than I can count. In the deepest places of my heart, I long for the Lord. Truly, I ache for Him in a way that defies comprehension. Like the Chief Musician in Psalm 42, my soul pants and thirsts for the living God as deer pants for the water brooks. And yet… these innate yearnings can be so easily superseded by the things of this world and the cravings of my flesh. With such a strong inward draw towards my Creator, how is it possible to wander and depart from the One whom I so desperately desire? The Bible tells us, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?” (Jer. 17:9, NKJV). We are all aware that the Bible contains hard truths, but this one cuts straight to the core. To many, this bold statement may sound harsh, even offensive.  However, that does not negate its truth. Our hearts lie to us. Our emotions betray us. There is an age-old battle that rages within every single one of us. A conflict that has plagued humanity since the fall of man in the Garden of Eden. This great war boils down to one single word – choice. A choice between God and self, our own desires and His, selfishness and selflessness, prideful independence and dependent surrender.  When these comparisons are listed side by side, it seems completely irrational that we would choose selfishness over selflessness, our will over God’s. And yet that is the struggle each one of us faces day in and day out. Our human nature is so flawed, so imperfect, that we actually need God’s help to even choose Him. Our hearts are so divided, and our bent toward sin so strong, that without the aid of His Spirit, all of us would remain on paths of self-destruction. But God in His goodness does not leave us there. He proactively pursues each one of us because of His great love for us.  The Lord Himself searches our hearts and tests our minds (Jer. 17:10) so that we may recognize our deviations. For it is His kindness that leads us to repentance (Rom. 2:4). Like the Shepherd that left the ninety-nine to find the single sheep who had wandered, so the Lord passionately pursues each and every one of us. Once we have been returned to the fold, our Heavenly Father instructs us how to remain tethered to Him. He withholds no good gift from His children. All we have to do is ask. “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened,” (Matt. 7:7-8, NIV). It’s that simple. If you are wrestling with divided affections today, may I encourage you to call upon the Lord? Just like the psalmist of old, let us declare together our heartfelt plea… “Teach me your way, LORD, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. For great is your love toward me.” (Ps. 86:11-13, NIV). Intersecting Faith & Life: Where is your heart today? Do you feel rooted and grounded in Christ, or are you wandering, lost, or disconnected? Perhaps you are somewhere in the middle, where it literally feels like you have one foot on each side of the dividing line that separates surrender and self-reliance. Wherever you find yourself today, take some time to examine your heart. I know how hard it is for many of us to sit in silence and patiently wait for that still small voice of God’s Spirit within each of us. But I pray that you will push past the discomfort of being still and truly allow the Lord to reveal the state of your heart. He longs to heal any division found there so that you may truly rest in His love and presence.  Further Reading:Psalm 86Matthew 18:12-14 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• Make the Most of Each Moment 07.07.2026 6Min.

  Make the most of each moment by staying faithful in the season God has you in today. Drawing from Ecclesiastes 3:1, this devotional reminds us that every season has a purpose, and God calls us to faithfully steward the present instead of becoming consumed by the future. Whether you're waiting for answers, stepping into a new opportunity, or navigating a busy season, God invites you to trust His timing and remain fully present with Him. Rather than striving to control every outcome, we can rest in knowing that the Lord establishes our steps. Like Mary, who chose to sit at Jesus' feet, we're reminded that our relationship with Christ matters more than simply checking off spiritual or daily tasks. As we pursue our goals and responsibilities, we can find joy in slowing down, embracing God's presence, and living faithfully in the moment He has given us. Highlights: Every season of life has purpose and is part of God's perfect timing. Faithfulness means stewarding today's assignments instead of worrying about tomorrow. God establishes our steps as we trust Him with our plans. Time spent with Jesus is just as important as the work we do for Him. Don't become so focused on the future that you miss God's blessings in the present. Join the Conversation What season of life are you in right now? How is God inviting you to be more present with Him instead of becoming distracted by what's next? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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: Make the Most of Each Moment By Hannah Benson Bible Reading:“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1 ESV) Recently, on a beautiful spring afternoon, I rose from my desk and stepped outside. After working for the past several hours, I needed a break. And some fresh air. One of my favorite things to do is take a walk around my family’s lush land, past the woods on one side and our neighbor’s horses on the other. And pray. This particular afternoon, as I quieted my heart to be still like the grass underneath my feet, I admitted to God I had lots of questions. Of course, He already knew that, both because He knows everything and because I’d been asking these questions for weeks and months on end with seemingly no answer. If I were being honest, I realized I was trying to approach this specific situation with my own strength, believing it was up to me to see a breakthrough when I knew deep down it would take a move and a miracle from God. As I reflected on the previous several weeks, I asked God what He wanted me to know, what He was telling me. Why did it feel like He was being so silent? And then. In my heart, God reminded me to make the most of each moment. Ephesians 5:15-17 ESV says: “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Some seasons are busier than others. Some bring change. Some bring new assignments. In my heart, as I reflected on all this, I realized that I wanted to make the most of this season. Whenever God calls me into a new season, perhaps assignments will shift slightly. I want to make the most of the time I have now and be a faithful steward of what God has given me in each season. As I write this, I’m prepping to travel out of town for a month to work on a film project, effectively entering a new season. While I want to have a heart that sits at the feet of Jesus like Mary, I also realize that making the most of each moment means not delaying the assignments God has clearly placed before me. Sometimes, we procrastinate, thinking we can delay the assignment, but if God has called us to a task, the wisest thing we can do is walk in obedience. We must steward the moment by saying “yes” to the work of today, trusting that He will provide everything we need. “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6 ESV). I want to have an open heart for what the Lord wants to do in my life. It’s okay to dream and work towards goals. It’s okay to make plans, but as the Scriptures in Proverbs 16:9 (ESV) say, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” God alone knows the plans He has for our lives. On the flip side, sometimes, we get so caught up in the big picture that we forget to enjoy the present. To take a break from the busyness of life and just be. My love language is quality time, so one of my favorite things to do with those I love is simply spend time with them. To just take a moment to pull away from the busyness of life and just be. Lately, God has been convicting me to spend deeper, intentional time with Him. If I love quality time, how much more does God love when I spend time with Him? Intersecting Faith & Life: I think of the story of Mary and Martha, famously found in the Gospels. One specific account is Luke 10:38-42. The Bible says “Martha was distracted with much serving” (v. 40) while Mary “sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching” (v. 39). Don’t get me wrong. We are called to serve God, but like any good parent, His love for us is not dependent on what we do. He loves us and wants time with us. He doesn’t want us to get so distracted doing things for Him that we forget to simply be with Him. Keep in mind that Jesus didn’t scold Martha for serving Him. Far from it! No, He gently and lovingly pointed out that she was “anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary” (v. 41). So many times, we allow our serving to distract us from spending time with Jesus. As we walk through busy seasons, sometimes, there are a thousand “necessary” tasks calling for our attention. Sometimes, we look forward to the future with anticipation, dreaming of things that lie in “someday.” That’s not necessarily a bad thing; it’s important to have hope for the future. But I don’t want to get so caught up in the “someday” that I miss the here and now. The beauty of the present sunset. Family laughing around the dinner table. The crush of grass underneath my feet as I breathe in the scent of spring. The view of the mountains outside our kitchen window. It’s amazing to dream. Let’s keep hoping, but let’s not forget to make the most of each moment we’ve been given. To serve God exactly where He has us, to love the people He has placed in our path. Let’s be people who plan our ways with open hands, allowing the Lord to establish our steps, and choosing, above all else, to simply be with Him. Dear Father, thank You for the beauty of today. Help us to dream big dreams for the future while remaining fully planted in the present. Teach us to sit at Your feet like Mary, even when our to-do lists look like Martha’s. As we step into new seasons and assignments, let us never miss the miracle of the “here and now.” In Jesus’s Name, Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• What It Means to Respect the Lord 06.07.2026 6Min.

  Understanding the "fear of the Lord" begins with recognizing God's character. Proverbs 8:13 reminds us that reverence for God is not about living in constant terror but about honoring Him so deeply that we reject what He calls evil. As we grow in our relationship with Christ, obedience becomes less about fear of punishment and more about love, trust, and respect for the One who is perfectly holy and perfectly good. This devotion encourages believers to move beyond a distorted view of God as someone waiting for them to fail. Instead, Scripture reveals a Father who calls His children to walk in wisdom, love, and holiness. Genuine reverence for God transforms our hearts, shaping the way we speak, make decisions, and respond to temptation because we desire to reflect His character. Highlights: Reverence for God grows out of knowing His holy and loving character Respecting the Lord leads us to reject pride, evil, and sinful behavior Obedience is rooted in love for Christ, not merely fear of consequences God's desire is to draw His people closer, not push them away through intimidation A healthy view of God inspires joyful faithfulness and spiritual growth Join the Conversation When you hear the phrase "fear the Lord," what comes to mind? How has your understanding of God's character shaped the way you approach Him in worship, obedience, and everyday life? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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 it Means to Respect the LordBy Vivian Bricker  Bible Reading:“To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech” (Proverbs 8:13).  Many of us grew up hearing about the fear of the Lord. As someone who did not grow up in the church, I didn't hear about this until much later. However, I can imagine the anxiety it raised in the hearts of children.  The idea of fearing the Lord suggests that we are supposed to be afraid of Him. When we look at the Bible, we don't see Jesus as a scary, fear-mongering God. Instead, we see Him being born into the world as an innocent baby on one silent night (Luke 2:11).  Fearing the Lord has bred many problems within preaching as well as theology in general. This is because far too many people take fear to literally mean being afraid—and this is a completely reasonable conclusion to draw. Some translations include footnotes to guide the reader; however, for most of us who are reading the New International Version or the King James Version, the word remains “fear.” When I was in Bible college, a professor went over this exact issue. Anytime the Bible uses the phrase “the fear of the Lord,” it refers to respecting the Lord. My professor said a more accurate understanding of these passages would be “the respect of the Lord.” To respect Him is to love Him.  While many people will continue to preach the message of fear, we must remember that fear doesn't last… love does. If someone places faith in Jesus and follows Him out of fear, their faith will not stand. They will only be obeying Him because they fear Him. With time, their obedience will waver because they won't be afraid of Him anymore.  However, if a person loves God and respects Him out of this love, their conversion will be true. Their obedience to Him will also show up in their daily life because they are walking in true love and respect for the Lord. They won't fear the Lord because they know Jesus is not “out to get them” or waiting for them to fall.  Far too many believers think this is how God works, but it is not true. God is not a mean God who tries to get you to mess up. The person who does this is the devil. God is the one who is standing by your side, supporting you, encouraging you, and lifting you up (Romans 8:31).  Intersecting Faith & Life: The Bible says, “To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech” (Proverbs 8:13). Once again, rather than understanding this passage as “To fear the Lord,” we are to know it means “To respect the Lord.” Therefore, to respect the Lord is to hate evil.  The Lord hates evil, pride, arrogance, and perverse speech. Those who adhere to these practices will be brought to judgment. Those who continue down this wicked road, ignore God's wisdom, and fail to seek it will pay the due penalties. Folly and wickedness will lead to falling, separation from God, and an eternity of pain.  As Christ followers, we should have the highest respect for God. Respecting Him means we don't take part in evil or wicked schemes. Instead, we will obey Him. Jesus tells us, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15).  The Lord’s teachings are nourishment to our bones and will fill our hearts with extraordinary joy. If the fear of the Lord has brought you away from God, allow this new understanding to give you renewed hope. God doesn't want you to fear Him. Rather, He wants you to love Him and to respect Him. By doing this, you will follow Him all your days, continue to grow in Him, and help others to know about Him.  Did you hear about the fear of the Lord growing up? Did it affect you negatively? How might you start learning what it means to respect the Lord rather than to fear Him?  Further Reading: Psalm 145:8 Proverbs 6:16-19 Ecclesiastes 12:13 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• Rest Like Jesus 05.07.2026 5Min.

  Rest often gets treated like a reward for surviving a busy week, but Scripture paints a very different picture. In Mark 4:39, Jesus speaks peace over chaos and demonstrates that rest is not weakness or avoidance—it is part of a grounded, faithful life. True rest isn’t only about sleep or downtime—it’s also about rhythms that create space for God to quiet the internal noise. When life becomes loud, rest becomes a way of returning to trust instead of strain. Highlights: Rest is modeled by Jesus as part of a healthy, faithful rhythm Ongoing stress without restoration affects emotional and spiritual clarity Rest is proactive, not just recovery after exhaustion Boundaries around time, attention, and input protect well-being Spiritual rest includes time with God, not just physical pause Join the Conversation Where in your current rhythm do you feel most stretched or depleted? What would it look like to build a pattern of rest that actually restores you instead of just catching up after burnout? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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: Rest Like JesusBy: Michelle Lazurek Bible Reading:“He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.” - Mark 4:39 As someone who has an anxiety disorder, I must be very careful about how much stress I put on my body. Extra stress can leave me emotionally, physically, or mentally exhausted. If I don't get the right amount of sleep, it can cause my anxiety to flare and wreak havoc on my mental health. Since the diagnosis, I'm careful to watch my body's physical signs to indicate that my emotional or mental state is more stressed than I even realize. For example, if at the end of the week I put my hand out and it's shaking for no reason other than I've worked too hard, I know I'm putting my body under extra stress. This causes me to take a step back and take an extra day off to rest physically, but more importantly, mentally and emotionally. I struggle with the idea of rest. As someone who likes to be productive, I often like to make the most of my days. Resting feels like I'm wasting time and not producing anything. Yet, rest is important for my physical, emotional, and mental state. If I don't watch how I take care of myself, this is an easy target for Satan to come in and plant doubts in my mind and flood my thoughts with lies. These lies, if I'm physically exhausted, I won't check against Scripture. If gone unchecked, this can lead to an unhealthy fear of the future. It is important for me to operate from a posture of rest, not merely rest after pushing myself too hard physically, emotionally, or mentally. But that is easier said than done. Jesus operated out of a posture of rest. The above verse comes from Jesus emerging from a storm after waking from a nap. The disciples, scared by the storm that quickly arose on the sea, woke Jesus up even though he was sleeping on the boat. They ask him to do something because it feels as though he's prioritizing rest over caring for them.  However, Jesus realizes that rest is one of the most important things he needs to complete his ministry. He knew he simply couldn’t operate without being physically, emotionally, and mentally rested. Not only was he performing signs and miracles, but he was also healing the sick, preaching, and averting arrows thrown by the Pharisees.  Jesus knew that his ministry could quickly become overwhelming if he did not take care of himself. When he needed the rest, he stopped at nothing to get it. Take a minute and analyze your life. Are you someone who rests only after a hard week at work? Are you someone who operates from a posture of rest, someone who starts Monday morning feeling refreshed, knowing you rested properly throughout the weekend? It is easy for you, as it is for me, to neglect the importance of rest. You may also see rest as something to be endured, not something necessary for the work God has for you. Over the next week, jot down the number of times you've rested.  This does not necessarily mean sleeping in on a weekend (although that could be part of your rest.) Do you take time to unplug from social media? Do you have good boundaries when it comes to scrolling your phone or trolling the Internet?  If we're honest, we all could use a lesson in rest. Although it may be impossible for us to rest during crises, we need to take Jesus' example and rest appropriately. We need to rest regularly to care for ourselves, not merely a result of an overextended, overpacked schedule. Father, let us be people who rest. Let us understand that rest is a necessity in our lives, not merely something to do to prevent exhaustion. Help us create firm boundaries around our mental, emotional, and physical state. Let us not only rest physically but also take time to spend with you. When we spend time in your word and in your presence, it helps us rest because we then lay all our cares (including our bodies) before you. Amen.  Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you struggle with rest? What is one thing you can do to better incorporate rest into your daily life? Further Reading:Matthew 11:28-30 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• A Call to Be Thankful for America on Its 250th Anniversary 04.07.2026 7Min.

  Across generations, public moments of prayer and thanksgiving have shaped how many people understand national identity and responsibility. Whether one looks at early proclamations or later seasons of national hardship, the consistent theme is simple: gratitude toward God is meant to be expressed, not assumed. It keeps perspective steady and prevents freedom from turning into entitlement. At its core, this kind of reflection isn’t just about looking backward—it’s about asking what we do with what we’ve been given today. Gratitude becomes a posture that influences how we live, serve, and treat one another right now. Highlights: Scripture invites believers to actively remember and proclaim God’s works Gratitude is a stabilizing force in how we view history and present blessings Public and personal thanksgiving have long shaped spiritual and cultural identity Freedom carries responsibility, not just privilege Remembering God’s faithfulness helps anchor perspective in the present Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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: A Call to Be Thankful for America on Its 250th Anniversary By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “Give praise to the Lord, proclaim His name; make known among the nations what He has done.” - Psalm 105:1 As America celebrates its 250th Anniversary, we, as citizens of the United States, have much to be thankful for! History books record, and historical monuments stand, in honor of the Christians whom God led across the ocean, who were seeking a land where they could freely and openly serve Him, those willing to leave all they had behind and risk their lives to set sail for a New World. As the forerunners, the Pilgrims’ trek led them to America, where they brought their deep spiritual convictions to lay the groundwork and foundational biblical beliefs; truths that led our Founding Fathers to base our Declaration of Independence on godly principles; and truths that have given us the right to worship God freely and without reserve since their coming. Without our founders humbling themselves before God, there would be no USA today. As American history records, prayer and fasting were called for and practiced in America’s founding and the establishment of our nation, playing a major role in establishing America by the first patriots who practiced James 4:10 on a national level: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.” By our leaders calling our nation to humble itself before God in prayer and fasting, our founders followed 2 Chronicles 7:14, urging, “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.” By humbling ourselves as a nation, our leaders seemed to understand what Galatians 5:13 reminds us: “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” America’s History Reveals Decades of National Thankfulness Even before the official establishment of the United States, historical documents record that, throughout the American Revolution, the Continental Congress, in response to winning critical battles, called for national days of Thanksgiving, asking colonists to express gratitude to God for His divine protection over the troops. After the Declaration of Independence, national thanksgiving continued, beginning in 1789, with President George Washington issuing the first official United States Thanksgiving proclamation, calling upon all Americans to demonstrate gratitude to God for the end of the war and the Constitution’s successful ratification.  President Washington said, “Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the Providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor.” Following Washington’s example, Presidents John Adams and James Madison also called for national days of Thanksgiving during their presidential terms. As well, President Abraham Lincoln, on October 3, 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, proclaimed the last Thursday in November as a national day of Thanksgiving. A Nation’s Living Testament to God’s Faithfulness  The United States is a living testament to God’s faithfulness and to what happens when a nation is willing to humble itself before God… recognizing His sovereignty over the earth and publicly thanking Him for His protection and provision for its leaders and people. As citizens of the USA, we have much to be thankful to God for our nation, as we celebrate our 250th anniversary.  Thankfulness to God for what He has done in America through the faith of our Founding Fathers, who feared and worshipped Him and laid a godly foundation for our land based on biblical truth, and whose beliefs continue to this day across our nation. Intersecting Faith & Life: As our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, ask God to help you find reasons to be thankful for our country, our godly heritage, and the freedoms we still enjoy today. As well, ask the Lord to move in the hearts of people across our nation, encouraging them to praise and thank Him for all that He has done for us as a country. Further Reading: A Prayer to Praise God for Our Nation   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• Finding Joy in the Mundane 03.07.2026 6Min.

  Even the most ordinary parts of life can become heavy when repetition wears down our joy. Yet Scripture reminds us that joy is not dependent on circumstances—it is supplied by the God of hope. Romans 15:13 points us to a deeper reality: when we believe and trust Him, the Holy Spirit fills us with joy and peace that can exist even in the most routine, repetitive seasons. This kind of joy isn’t loud or flashy. It shows up in small, faithful moments—choosing gratitude over frustration, presence over complaint, and trust over fatigue. Over time, those small choices reshape how we experience everyday life, turning what feels mundane into something meaningful. Highlights: Joy and peace are gifts rooted in trusting God, not in ideal circumstances Monotony often reveals where we need renewed perspective and dependence on God Gratitude is a practical way to resist discouragement and complaint The Holy Spirit actively produces joy as we yield our attitudes to Him Even ordinary responsibilities can become meaningful when offered to God Join the Conversation Where in your daily routine do you feel most drained or disconnected from joy? What would it look like to invite God into those small, repetitive moments this week? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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 Joy in the Mundane By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13, NASB). As a mother, I am reminded quickly how much I need God’s grace to make it through each day. Even though I thrive on tackling tasks ahead of me, so I can check them off my to-do list, I wrestle with the monotony of it and keeping a good attitude in front of my children. I have found myself starting my day in a pretty sour mood, dreading another day of the same routine. Realizing that is not Christ-honoring at all, I told my husband the other day that one thing I want my children to remember about me is how much I laughed, how joyful I was, no matter what. That isn’t my natural bent- I am more introspective and melancholy most of the time. Even though I am incredibly thankful to be a mother, the fruit of the spirit that seems to be a struggle for me to hold on to in this season of my life is joy. Instead of allowing my circumstances and personality to become excuses for my lack of a joyful outlook and demeanor, I must look to Christ and trust that He will fill me with joy and hope, even amid the boring, monotonous routines of life. For me, that is finding joy in serving my family.  In his letter to the Romans, in chapter 15, the Apostle Paul speaks of self-denial on behalf of others, reminding them (and us) that Christ was a servant to His people and the Gentiles. This truth should cause us to glorify God and rejoice no matter what as we seek to serve others and share the gospel with hope and joy. Paul prays in Romans 15:13: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13, NASB). Intersecting Faith & Life: The scriptures encourage us and give us strength to persevere when we find ourselves discouraged, bored, or tempted to complain and grumble. As God’s children, we are not to grumble. We must remember that, ultimately, grumbling is complaining against the sovereign God of the universe and saying He isn’t good, which is sinful. When we complain or have a sour, ungrateful attitude, we should repent, reset our minds by thinking on things above, and rejoice and give thanks to God for His graciousness and goodness towards us. There are new mercies available to us every single morning. Perhaps it would be a beneficial habit to create a daily list of things that you are grateful for to help cultivate a heart of contentment and joy. Despite hardships and inconveniences in our lives and relationships, we are called to rejoice and find our joy in Christ alone and all that He has done for us. It all comes down to the attitude and posture of our heart, which God is shaping to look more like Jesus every day. The God of hope has given us Himself through the Holy Spirit, and the fruit of the Spirit are all available to us the more we yield to the Spirit instead of giving into our flesh that wars against the Spirit daily (Galatians 5:17). We can call upon the name of the Lord to cry out for help when we are tempted to complain and walk in ungratefulness, and He will empower us with His Spirit. He is our ever-present help in times of need and is faithful to strengthen us with His grace and fill us up with His peace, hope, and joy, even in the mundane.  Although it is easy to find excuses for our behavior and mood, we must trust that God’s word is very clear about the posture of our hearts and attitudes, especially in difficult, stressful, or even mundane circumstances. The Lord cares about the condition of our hearts and the attitude that we exude because, as Christ followers, we are to look and behave differently from the world. People are watching all the time how we react when we are struggling under the weight of the cares of life. Do you need to ask the Lord to give you a hunger for more of His word? It is so important because this is where your mind is renewed; it helps us cultivate the fruit of the Spirit and walk in obedience with abundant joy and hope as you seek to serve Him and others. If you struggle with complaining about your mundane daily tasks, ask the Lord to help you guard your heart and avoid grumbling; He can help you find joy in all circumstances, even in your monotonous routine. May the joy of the Lord be your strength today! Further Reading: Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 James 1:2-4 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• When You Long for Rest 02.07.2026 6Min.

  Scripture reminds us that rest is not something we manufacture—it is something we receive from God’s presence. Just as Moses needed reassurance before stepping into the unknown, we often need the same reminder: we are not navigating life alone. God goes with us, goes before us, and stays with us. His presence doesn’t remove every difficult decision, but it does remove the burden of carrying them alone. In that truth, rest becomes more than physical relief—it becomes spiritual confidence. Worry loses its grip when we remember that God already sees the outcome, already knows the path, and is actively guiding each step forward. Highlights: God’s presence is the foundation of true rest in uncertain seasons Feeling overwhelmed often comes from trying to carry decisions alone Like Moses, we are reassured that God goes with us into every situation Rest in God means releasing anxiety, second-guessing, and fear of failure Trust grows when we believe God is already ahead of our circumstances Join the Conversation Where in your life do you feel the need to slow down and trust God’s leading more fully? What would it look like to exchange anxiety for rest in His presence today? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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 You Long for Rest By Cindi McMenamin  Bible Reading:“And he said, ‘My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest’” (Exodus 33:14 ESV).  Do you ever get tired of trying to solve all-consuming problems by yourself? It’s inevitable at times to lie awake at night, running through the options in our minds, and deliberating about what the best decision might be, and then worrying if that really is the best decision or direction.  I was there recently, unsure about my next step. I had a number of options in front of me and didn’t want to overlook God’s best for what looked easier or more attainable. For a moment, I felt paralyzed.  “God, what should I do”? I prayed aloud. “I feel so alone and lost in this.”  As soon as I mouthed the words, I was convicted by the realization that I am never alone. God’s presence goes with me everywhere I go. He knows all about my situation, and He already sees the solution. And He is leading if I will just follow.  I wonder if Moses, at one time, could relate.  When Moses was charged to lead the Israelites into the land of Canaan, he was uncertain of his next step, too. Moses was hesitant because he believed the stubbornness of the Israelites would cause the Lord to decline going up to the land with them. I wonder if Moses, momentarily, thought he was on his own. Did he feel panicked or paralyzed?  Scripture tells us in Exodus 13:12-13 that Moses said to the Lord, “See, you say to me, ‘Bring up this people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. Yet you have said, ‘I know you by name, and you have also found favor in my sight.’ Now therefore, if I have found favor in your sight, please show me now your ways, that I may know you in order to find favor in your sight.”   God’s reply to Moses in verse 14 was short and sweet: “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”   That was all Moses needed to hear and know. God’s presence would be with him, so he didn’t need to stress, worry, or fear. God had the next step, and the next one after that. And God would give him rest. Rest from feeling he had to do it on his own.  Rest from having to make the correct decision. Rest from the burden, the pressure, the obligations, and the fear of failure.  How many times have I feared a situation because I’ve forgotten that not only will God go with me, but His presence has already gone before me?  How was this situation of mine any different? God would go with me, and He would give me rest.  As Moses implied, God’s presence and His rest are evidence that I know Him, and He knows me and has taught me His ways.  Intersecting Faith & Life: Our knowledge of God and trust in Him are evident in how we respond to difficulties and certain crossroads in our lives. Will we worry, stress, or quietly rest in His leading?  Can you trust, regardless of what your situation looks like, that God knows you, He is intimately familiar with your situation, and His presence is going with you in your circumstances to guide you and get you through? Can you rest, not lie awake at night trying to figure it all out, because God already knows how to get you to where He wants you to be?  Today, I will not be worried, stressed, or fearful because God’s presence goes with me and He will give me rest. His rest means no anxiety, no confusion, and no second-guessing what I should have done. He leads. He accompanies me. He provides peace and rest. And He can provide it for you too.  Thank you, Lord God, that Your presence goes with us everywhere we go. And thank You for the assurance that You are familiar with all of our circumstances and all of our fears. We praise You today that Your presence means peace and rest.  Further Study: Matthew 11:28-29 For a closer walk with God and daily reminders to rest in Him, see my newest book, 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.
• Celebrating 250 Years as a Nation 01.07.2026 7Min.

  When we reflect on freedom, Scripture reminds us that true freedom is ultimately found in Christ. While earthly freedoms are worth recognizing and being thankful for, the greatest freedom we receive is the freedom Jesus provides—the freedom to worship God, share the Gospel, and live according to His truth. As we remember the history and sacrifices that shaped our nation, we can also reflect on the responsibility that comes with freedom: using it to honor God and serve others in love. Highlights: True freedom begins with the freedom Christ gives through salvation America’s founding was influenced by leaders who recognized God’s role in establishing liberty Freedom allows believers to worship, share the Gospel, and live openly for Christ Biblical freedom is not meant for selfish living but for serving others in love Remembering history invites us to thank God for those who courageously stood for freedom Join the Conversation As you reflect on 250 years of freedom as a nation, how do you see God’s hand at work throughout history? How can you use the freedoms you have today to honor God and serve those around you? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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: Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom as a Nation By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” - Galatians 5:1 Our Founding Fathers were a group who believed in God, the freedom He gives each of us, and His providence in establishing the United States of America. Although debates continue over how godly each one lived and how deeply they each believed in God, they still gave us a biblical basis for our nation, one that continues today. As the first Vice President and second President of the United States, John Adams wrote on July 3, 1776, to his beloved wife, Abigail, concerning the high cost of freedom paid to create the Declaration of Independence: “You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not—I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States—Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will triumph in that Days Transaction, even although we should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not.” Adams also credited the American Revolution’s success with the spiritual revival in the hearts and minds of the people that preceded it by a generation, laying the foundation for America. The spread of “The Great Awakening” across the colonies greatly influenced and strengthened Patriot leaders, leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence, in which prayer and fasting played a vital role in helping America establish its freedom.  America is a testament of what God has done, leading America’s Founders to establish our nation and government on godly principles. These biblical truths have given us the freedom to live as followers of Jesus Christ without reserve. As Galatians 5:13 directs us, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” The following are three freedoms that America has granted us as Christians: America gives us freedom to openly worship God. First and foremost is the freedom America gives us to worship God. It’s our highest calling as Christians, and it’s the freedom that tops all the others because it’s also fulfilling the first commandment, recorded in Matthew 22:37-38: “Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.” America gives us freedom to openly preach the Gospel. In America, we have this freedom, like no other country in the world. As 2 Corinthians 3:17 explains, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” America gives us the freedom to openly live as Christians. We, as Americans, have been granted the right, as citizens, to live as Christians in the freedom Jesus gave us. As Jesus assured us in John 8:36, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”  Although we, as Americans, fought for freedom from King George and British tyranny, proclaiming independence from their harsh reign, our independence was rooted in our dependence upon Almighty God and the freedom He gives us through Jesus Christ. Adams supported the spiritual awakening in our country, calling attention to and recognizing the connection between faith in God and freedom in life, validating where true freedom originates. Miracles in American History author, historian, and speaker, William J. Federer, writes, “In defending the Declaration, Adams told the Continental Congress, July 1, 1776: ‘Live or die, survive or perish, I am for the Declaration. It is my living sentiment, and by the blessing of God it shall be my dying sentiment. Independence now, and Independence forever!’” Intersecting Faith & Life: As we celebrate our nation’s 250 years of freedom this July 4th, consider our founders’ faith in God and the fortitude they displayed in standing on His truth amid conflict and tyranny. Spend time thanking God for their bravery and boldness in believing that true freedom comes from Him. Further Reading: How the Church Paved the Way for America’s Freedom Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
• A Proper View of Love 30.06.2026 5Min.

  When we step back and look closely at what love really is, it becomes clear that it’s far more than words, emotions, or routine phrases we say without thinking. True love is demonstrated through action, sacrifice, and consistency. Scripture points us to the ultimate example in Christ—who didn’t just speak love, but proved it through giving Himself for us while we were still undeserving. That kind of love reshapes how we understand God’s heart and how we extend love to others. Highlights: Love is more than words; it is demonstrated through action and truth God defines love through sacrifice, seen fully in Jesus on the cross Real love often involves giving, serving, and putting others before ourselves Biblical love is consistent even when people are imperfect or difficult Understanding God’s love changes how we love others in everyday life Join the Conversation How has your understanding of love changed through your faith journey? Where do you find it most challenging to love others in a sacrificial way, and what helps you reflect Christ’s love in those moments? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ 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: A Proper View of LoveBy Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).  Many of us grow up with an incorrect view of what love actually means. From an early age, we are taught that if someone says they love you, we are to say, “I love you” back, regardless of how we are feeling. Without giving these words much thought, we have lost the true meaning of love and its uniqueness in our lives.  The word “love” has a deeper meaning than just a greeting, a goodbye, or a simple “I love (fill in the blank).” The meaning of love has been distorted by overuse. As believers, we need to understand what love is and avoid using it haphazardly.  There is a time and place to say we love others, but we also need to show it in our actions. We are told in the Bible, “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth” (1 John 3:18). My mom used to say she loved me each morning before I went to elementary school, but she didn’t use the word “love” in a way that was repetitive or meaningless. When she said she loved me, she meant it, and she backed it up with her actions.  Now, this is the key difference. The love my mom showed me was not just in her words. She also showed it through her actions and genuine concern for me. Whenever she would tell me she loved me and to have a good day at school, she truly meant it.  The True Definition of Love The Apostle Paul tells us, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). God has shown in both His actions and words that He loves us. He didn’t only say He loves us, but rather, He left Heaven to die the death we deserved and pay our sin debt.  Jesus did this out of the love He has for us. No one would die for someone they didn’t love with every fiber of their body. “Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:7-8).  Jesus’ death on the cross demonstrates to us what real love looks like: sacrifice. Love is not all roses, beautiful dates, or perfect families. Real love is rooted in sacrificing our own needs for others.  This is what real love looks like as it models the same love Jesus has for us. We will have to love others in their darkest times. For example, one of our friends might need support when they are going through alcohol or addiction recovery. Showing judgment toward them and not being there for them will only cause them to feel awful about themselves. However, if we model Jesus’ sacrificial love in our lives, we will be loving, caring, and compassionate toward them, and sacrifice our own plans to spend time with them.  The Lord tells us, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). Living under a proper view of love will change our lives and ensure we love others as the Lord loves us. Praying to Jesus to help us practice sacrificial love will help us if we find it a difficult concept to fully embrace. God can transform our hearts and change them to reflect His own (Ezekiel 36:26). Intersecting Faith & Life: What is your definition of love? Has anyone modeled the love of Jesus for you in their life? Did this leave a lasting impact on you? How can you lean into the Lord’s love today? Further Reading: Jeremiah 31:3 John 3:16-18 1 John 4:10 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.