The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

We try to satisfy the cravings we feel in so many ways, like food, social media, over-achievement, and television. But being attuned to—and in step with—the Father is often the true sustenance our bodies, brains, and souls are starving for. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Food of the Father by Deidre Braley John 4: 31-34: Meanwhile his disciples urged him, "Rabbi, eat something." But he said to them, "I have food to eat that you know nothing about." Then his disciples said to each other, "Could someone have brought him food?" "My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.” On the day Jesus met the Samaritan woman by the well, his disciples eventually caught up with him and—right in the middle of his salvation business—they told him to stop and eat. “Meanwhile,” John 4:31 says, “his disciples urged him, ‘Rabbi, eat something.’” They’re like Italian nonnas here, saying, “Eat, eat, I tell you!” They’re being practical, of course. They want to make sure Jesus’ needs are met. He’s likely done a lot of walking in the hot sun, and it could have been a long time since he’s last eaten. Like so many of us would, they’re thinking with their stomachs! But I have always found Jesus’ response fascinating. He didn’t take their bread or grab a handful of grapes. Rather, “...he said to them, ‘I have food to eat that you know nothing about’” (John 4:32). The disciples were confused. Where could it have come from? They all looked at each other, asking, “‘Could someone have brought him food?’” (John 4:33) What—and who—could be feeding Jesus? As it turns out, the food Jesus was talking about wasn’t fish or figs, or anything else of that nature. “My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work” (John 4:34). Scripture doesn’t tell us how the disciples responded, but I imagine them standing mid-bite with their jaws open, probably with crumbs stuck in their beards. A revolutionary thought, yes? That something so spiritual as obeying God’s will could satisfy a need so physical within Jesus’ body? The disciples mistakenly believed that the food Jesus needed was the stuff of this earth, when really he was seeking the substance of Heaven—the food from the Father. How often do we have the same misunderstanding about what we need most? When we experience deep cravings within ourselves, or a hunger we cannot place, we have a habit of turning to the stuff of the world: chocolate cake, Instagram, overachieving at work, or marathon sessions of our favorite TV shows. But afterward—once the sugar high has passed, the promotion has come, or the social media post stops getting likes—that craving is still there, insistent as ever. As C.S. Lewis famously said, “If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.” Indeed. While it’s true that our bodies need fuel, this shared human hunger goes far beyond the necessity for food: it’s a void that can only be satisfied by being in touch with and obedient to the Father. Intersecting Faith & Life: We try to satisfy the cravings we feel in so many ways, like food, social media, over-achievement, and television. But being attuned to—and in step with—the Father is often the true sustenance our bodies, brains, and souls are starving for. Today, take notice of your cravings, whether it’s the desire to go on social media, overindulge, overwork, or something else altogether. Ask yourself: What prompted this craving? What is at the heart of this craving? How will my body-brain-soul feel after I indulge this craving? Now, pause and pray. Ask God: Is this craving actually pointing me to a need I have in you? What do you want me to know today, God? What do you want me to do today? Will you please show me how to satisfy this desire in a way that is holy and pleasing toyou? Further Reading: Psalm 37:4 Matthew 6:25-34 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

His grace is greater than our worst sins in the past and big enough to cover whatever sins we commit tomorrow. We know Him and have a Spirit-bound relationship with Him, again, through faith. And finally, through Christ and all we have in Him, we have the power and authority to resist the devil’s most relentless schemes. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Living With Assurance by Jennifer Slattery “I am writing to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name.13 I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning.I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. 14 I write to you, dear children, because you know the Father.I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning.I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one” (1 John 2:12-14, NIV). Early in my faith journey, I carried an underlying fear that perhaps I wasn’t really saved. This fear intensified when I went through a season of doubt. I worried that the very fact that I was questioning certain tenants of my faith, including the authority of Scripture, meant I didn’t truly belong to God and hadn’t actually yielded my life to Him. I wonder if you can relate. I have not yet met anyone who has completely yielded to Christ. We all have sinful behaviors that hinder our intimacy with Him, doubts we need Him to replace with truth, and fears that hinder our obedience. Simply put, we are all in the process of transformation. And if we’re not anchored in God’s grace, our weaknesses, flaws, and the constant accusations from the devil can cause us to doubt our salvation. This seems to be a challenge experienced by the people to whom John wrote the above passage. I understand why, considering the influence evil was trying to wield in their community. False teachers had risen among them and were spreading a counterfeit gospel known as Gnosticism. Among other things, these heretics claimed salvation through enlightenment rather than through faith in Christ. This, apparently, caused those who hadn’t received some “special knowledge” to doubt their salvation. John wrote to them to counter this destructive teaching and to assure the first century Christ followers of their eternal security. Notice all the ways he affirmed them. First, he addressed them as “dear children”, an endearment that emphasized their standing in God’s family. Contrary to the Gnostics’ claims, these men and women weren’t outsiders. They were adopted sons and daughters (Romans 8:15), chosen by Christ (Eph. 1:4), and united by His blood. He also told them, clearly, that they’d received forgiveness not because of any exclusive “revelation” but “on account of His name.” Next, John highlighted their relationship with Christ, stating that they “[knew] Him who is from the beginning.” Throughout this letter, John used two Greek words for “know.” One, eidó, refers to a factual, cognitive knowing, such as that the earth is round or plants grow from seeds. In 1 John 2:13, he used a different word, ginóskó, which refers to an understanding or recognition that comes through personal experience. Therefore, he emphasized that they knew Jesus personally. They hadn’t just learned about Him cognitively. They’d developed a relationship with Him. Notice, also, John told them they’d overcome the evil one, the force driving the false teachers and the believers’ doubts and insecurities. The devil didn’t want those men and women to gain a sense of eternal security. He wanted them to live in fear. Understand, his tactics don’t change. While he doesn’t have the power to separate us from God, he can, and does terrorize us to keep us from experiencing the soul-deep peace gifted to us through Jesus’s death. When we understand evil’s strategy and our authority in Christ, we’re able to “extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one” (Ephesians 6:16). In verse 14, John told the Christ-followers they knew the Father, using the same phrasing as he did for their relationship with Christ. And he ended this poetic section stating that they were strong, filled with truth, and overcomers. Again, while the devil was harassing them and trying to defeat them, he was and always will be a defeated foe. Intersecting Life and Faith Here’s what I find precious and beautiful. God preserved these words in Scripture so that you and I could live confident in our standing in Christ, secure in our salvation. When we begin to doubt those realities, may we speak the words in 1 John over ourselves, reminding ourselves that, because of our faith in Jesus’ finished work on the cross, we are forgiven. His grace is greater than our worst sins in the past and big enough to cover whatever sins we commit tomorrow. We know Him a

When you know Jesus, it changes your life for the better. When you truly invite Jesus into your heart and have real conversations with Him, He renews your mind, strengthens your heart, and refreshes your soul. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Knowing Jesus By Alexis A. Goring “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”— John 17:3 NIV When I studied Journalism, one of the first rules I learned was when you refer to a person in a news story, you need to mention their first and last name for the first time. After that, you are to refer to them by their last name only. However, if you know the person personally then you may refer to them by their first name only (depending on the in-house style guide rules for the print publication). One summer evening, I was reflecting on that lesson learned and realized a spiritual parallel: Jesus Christ wants us to know Him personally. He wants us to know Him and refer to Him on a first name basis. But this goes beyond writing rules. Jesus went to great lengths to save our souls. He desires to know us and for us to know Him intimately. He wants a closer walk with each of us because He loves us and, when you love someone, you want to know everything about them. You don’t refer to a loved one with a professional sounding last name. You may even have a fond nickname for that person that reflects their personality or shows what they mean to you. How does it feel to know that the Savior of the world wants to know us on those terms? What does it mean to know Jesus? I hear Christian influencers and musicians say to know Him is to love Him, and I agree that nothing else could be closer to the truth! When you know Jesus, it changes your life for the better. When you truly invite Jesus into your heart and have real conversations with Him, He renews your mind, strengthens your heart, and refreshes your soul. There is a deep joy that can only come through an intimate relationship with the Lord. And a relationship with Jesus doesn’t just change you, it changes the people around you. They start to notice a difference in you and want to know what happened. When you tell them about your love for God and invite them to read The Holy Bible, with the Holy Spirit’s help they can also get to know Jesus. They, too, can become on fire for Him. The process of observing a life changed by Jesus causes people to want to know Him as well, carrying on like a ripple effect. Before we know it, we see Him changing the world for the better! I got to know Jesus on a personal level when I was recovering from a health crisis at age 16. Despite growing up in a Christian home, I only knew a lot about Jesus. But when He came into my life and met me in the depths of a difficult time, His Light pushed back the darkness and His love for me—and all humankind—changed me from the inside out! He blessed me with this devotional writing ministry as if He, the Master Teacher, had enrolled me in His classroom. God helped me learn life lessons, then inspired the words for me to share in devotions that were exactly what I and my readers needed to hear! I fell in love with Jesus as my Lord and my love for Him propelled me to tell everyone about my Savior! I still feel called to do that today. Since my transformation from knowing about Christ to knowing Jesus on a first-name basis, people have commented on how the changes they saw in my life have inspired them to know Jesus too. This is what God wants: for us to make disciples and share His love, grace, and mercy with the world. He doesn’t want any of us to be lost. Jesus wants us to follow Him all the way to Heaven (John 3:16-17). “Knowing You, Jesus,” by Graham Kendrick is a song that also celebrates a close relationship with Christ. I encourage you to listen to it. (Note to the Editor: Would you please insert the YouTube link below to this song? https://youtu.be/pTTlSx6zXio?si=VRrrc6x0jLzdbCUh) Intersecting Faith and Life: Do you know Jesus? What difference in someone’s life have you seen after they started following Him? Further Reading: 1 Peter 2:9 2 Peter 3:18 John 1:1 John 8:12 1 John 2:3 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How do we stand against these attacks? How do we stop being pulled into defeat, discouragement, and doubt? How do we continue to walk in the freedom Christ afforded us? Galatians 5:1 tells us that we must, “stand firm”. This means that we keep standing no matter how hard Satan’s pulling. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Shutting Down Enemy Attacks Against You By Kelly Balarie “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.” – Gal. 5:1 NIV Have you ever played a game of tug of war? In this game there are two groups of people pulling on each side of the rope. One side pulls and the rope, along with the people, go left. The other side pulls and the rope, along with the rope-holders, go right. Whatever team has the stronger amounts of tugs, the one who gains the most ground, eventually wins. If they can pull the other team to their side, they are victorious.The enemy tries the same strategy with us. He tries to pull us to his side and off the ground of God’s truth. The devil says to us, “You are a horrible person, why try?” He tugs at our heart left. He adds, “You can’t really believe that God will answer your prayer.” He tugs a little more and gains traction. He hits us again, saying, “Why go to church anymore? People only hurt you there.” The devil’s goal is to pull us off the ground of God’s truth so that we can be yoked to his lies. It is subtle. “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.” – Gal. 5:1 NIV God’s side offers us freedom, even for today. Satan’s side offers us slavery and burdens in life. How do we stand against these attacks? How do we stop being pulled into defeat, discouragement, and doubt? How do we continue to walk in the freedom Christ afforded us? Galatians 5:1 tells us that we must, “stand firm”. This means that we keep standing no matter how hard Satan’s pulling. Practically, we can do these three things to continue to stand: Wait on the Lord. New life for Jesus looked a lot different on day 3 than it did on day 2. Sometimes, just giving it a day offers a fresh perspective, coupled with resurrection life power. Use Scripture as a weapon. Remember Jesus in the wilderness? He did not just listen to the enemy’s temptations, He defeated them with scriptural declarations. Memorize God’s Word and then speak it aloud over feelings of defeat or disillusionment. Pray. You are not powerless; you are powerful in prayer. Pray that the devil will get behind you and that God will strengthen you to stand. Intersecting Faith & Life: How do you feel attacked by the enemy? What is coming against you that you know is not from the Lord? What would it look like for you to stand? You know, if we stand through a storm, eventually the storm moves on. No storm lasts forever. Nature shows us this. Likewise, what remains beyond the dark clouds is the sun. God is always there. He will never leave or forsake you, even if all you can see is gloom and doom. Don’t give up. Stand. Kelly uplifts believers with boosts of faith; find encouragement by getting Kelly’s blog posts by email. Kelly, creator of the “Hear God’s Voice” podcast, is also a blogger, national speaker, and author of Take Every Thought Captive, Rest Now, Battle Ready, and Fear Fighting. Kelly, a real cheerleader of faith, loves seeing the power of prayer in live action. She loves seeing the look on people’s faces when they realize –God is faithful! Kelly’s work has been featured on The Today Show, CBN’s 700 Club, Relevant and Today’s Christian Woman. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God calls us to be trustworthy messengers ourselves. Our words, actions, and commitments should reflect the reliability and integrity of Jesus. Whether it’s showing up on time, keeping promises, or standing by others in times of need, we can be a valuable source of refreshment to those around us. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: How to Refresh People By: Whitney Hopler, Crosswalk.com Contributing Writer “A messenger you can trust is just as refreshing as cool water in summer.” – Proverbs 25:13, CEV In many parts of the world this summer, people are dealing with intense and unrelenting heat waves. Cities are experiencing record-high temperatures, and the sweltering heat has brought discomfort and distress to countless people. It has been so hot lately that whenever I’m outside I find myself craving cool water. As soon as I get home, I pull out one of the cans of seltzer water our family has stored in our refrigerator. The moments when I drink my first sips of that cool water are wonderful! As I swallow the water, my whole body feels refreshed. The cool water brings me much-needed relief from the heat and revitalizes my energy. I’m so grateful for it that I often silently thank God as I’m drinking the water and feeling completely refreshed. In Proverbs 25:13, the Bible says that a trustworthy messenger is just as refreshing as that cool water in the middle of a scorching summer. We crave trustworthy people in our lives like we crave cool water during summer. Both are vital to our well-being. Just as we cherish water during oppressive heat, we value people who keep their promises and follow through on their commitments. These people are reliable, dependable, and consistent. They offer stability in a broken world that can often be unpredictable and chaotic. Their presence can soothe and encourage us, offering us a sense of peace – much like a cool drink quenches our physical thirst. Jesus is the ultimate trustworthy messenger. Throughout his earthly life and ministry, Jesus delivered God’s message of love and truth with complete faithfulness. Jesus then faithfully made the ultimate sacrifice for our sins, in order to make our salvation possible. Jesus’ reliable trustworthiness is an important part of his mission. He gives hope to everyone who listens and believes. We can always count on Jesus to keep his promises. Jesus is the perfect role model of trustworthiness that we are called to emulate. Consider the impact of reliable friends in our lives. These are people who keep their promises, showing up when they say they will, and following through. People like them become a valuable source of comfort and strength – people we can rely on in times of need. Their reliability builds trust and deepens relationships. These are the kind of people Proverbs 25:13 describes – those who refresh us as we deal with the heat of stressful situations. God calls us to be trustworthy messengers ourselves. Our words, actions, and commitments should reflect the reliability and integrity of Jesus. Whether it’s showing up on time, keeping promises, or standing by others in times of need, we can be a valuable source of refreshment to those around us. Being trustworthy helps us honor God and bless our friends, family, and community. Trustworthiness not only strengthens our relationships with people, but also helps us reflect God’s holiness to the world. God is completely trustworthy. By being trustworthy ourselves, we bear witness to God’s faithfulness. Imagine the impact we can have when we embody trustworthiness in our daily lives. Our relationships and communities can grow stronger and our testimonies can grow more powerful. In a fallen world where trust is often fragile, being a trustworthy person can shine God’s light in the darkness. So, let’s try our best to be as refreshing to others as cool water on a hot summer day, by reflecting the trustworthiness of our Savior. Intersecting Faith and Life As you consider how to refresh people by being trustworthy, reflect on these questions: When was a time when someone’s trustworthiness brought you peace or relief. How did that experience impact you? How does the trustworthiness of Jesus influence your faith and daily life? Consider the areas of your life where you may have fallen short in being reliable or honest. What steps can you take to restore trust? How can you become a refreshing presence to others through your words and actions? Further Reading Proverbs 11:13 Matthew 5:37 Luke 16:10 1 Corinthians 4:2 2 Timothy 2:2 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Praise God, our faith in Christ transforms us into new creations, empowered and led by the Holy Spirit that resides within us. This means we can learn, through practice and an ever-deepening relationship with and reliance upon Him, to love others with the same gentleness and mercy our Savior bestows upon us. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: The Healing Power of Curiosity by Jennifer Slattery “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19, NIV). Looking back over my parenting, one of my biggest regrets is that I didn’t practice today’s verse more consistently. I spent way too much time talking and teaching, and often from a place of frustration, rather than pausing to listen with a desire to truly understand and hear my daughter’s heart. In a recent conversation, she shared an instance when my quick and faulty assumptions brought her pain. She’d recently received an eight-month coop position, which was like an internship, and was living in another state. This meant she was separated from her friends and faith community. She was also pursuing an engineering degree, and therefore, engaged in strenuous coursework. Plus, the company she interned with gave her, at age 19, responsibilities and leadership roles most people don’t receive until their mid-twenties or later. In other words, she was buried by numerous and compounding challenges. That fall, I attended a leadership summit hosted by my church. Inspired by one of their speakers, I purchased her book, devoured it, and decided my daughter should read it, too. When she declined my invitation, I became irritated and assumed she simply didn’t want to put in the effort. It grieves me to say this, but in my frustration, I called her entitled. I spoke hurt into her already struggling heart. Had I approached her from a place of curiosity rather than judgment, I could’ve offered her the emotional support she needed. I also would’ve realized that she’d already been living the book’s message as best as she was able. Sadly, my being quick to speak, quit to become irritated, and slow to listen hurt her and hindered true and open communication. I wonder if James, Jesus’ half-brother and the author of the letter from which today’s verse comes, carried similar regrets. We know from the gospels that he often responded to the Lord with disdain. Prior to Jesus’ resurrection, did James ever truly hear Christ’s words or had he already decided to close his ears to the Lord’s message? Scripture doesn’t tell us how much truth, if any, sank into James’ soul prior to Jesus’ crucifixion. However, the Bible does reveal James’s dramatic transformation after the Lord’s resurrection. He came to not only accept Christ’s message but also to live it out, and in his letter to Jewish believers scattered throughout Rome, he urged them to do the same. In short, he was calling the men and women he led to more consistently love God and others. Whereas selfishness and pride motivates unfiltered, and often hurtful words, the love of Jesus, first received then given, evokes a curiosity and desire to understand. “Everyone should be quick to listen,” he wrote, indicating an automatic response. For most of us, such behavior doesn’t come naturally. We tend to interact from a place of distraction, defensiveness, or judgment. Often, we’re more focused on how we want to respond than on the heart behind another person’s words. At least, this is what characterizes us prior to our conversion. Praise God, our faith in Christ transforms us into new creations, empowered and led by the Holy Spirit that resides within us. This means we can learn, through practice and an ever-deepening relationship with and reliance upon Him, to love others with the same gentleness and mercy our Savior bestows upon us. James also encouraged us to slow our tongues. Such advice stands contrary to our social media culture and its constant pull to “use our voice.” My pride tells me I have the answers others need or the wisdom they lack, and I therefore must be the one to dispense such knowledge. But reality says that God has numerous ways to speak to peoples’ souls and that He’s big enough to do so. That doesn’t mean He’ll never call me to share truth, but today’s verse does encourage me to take time to seek God’s will before I do so. In times of relational conflict, I also need to invite Him to search and cleanse my heart, addressing my anger with Him. I need His perspective on it, and when necessary, His healing for whatever’s driving it so that I’m speaking from a place of love rather than malice. I’m reminded of Jesus’ words in Matthew 7:3-5 where He told us to first remove the plank in our eyes, those things that distort our vision, so that we can see clearly to remove the sawdust in s

Our souls benefit from daily practice of gratitude for the seemingly small to the wondrous and everything in between. We must remind ourselves that God is GREAT! He is able to do more than we could ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20)! SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Remember the Wonders By: Amanda Idleman 1 Chronicles 16:12 Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced, Have you found that as an adult your memory isn’t as good as it once was? So many times a friend asks how my weekend was on Monday and it feels like every detail of what had just passed just fell out of my head! I joke that it’s because my brain is too full, new memories no longer stick as easily. The same is true of us as believers! How quickly do we forget the great things God has done for us and for those that we love? We proclaim to be people of faith but often behave in the same way as the faithless. We expect the worst forgetting that we have access to the power of God everyday to meet all our needs both big and small. The wandering Isrealites that God led out of captivity in Egypt with the help of his leader Moses had the same memory problem that we do. God showed up to redeem them, save them, provide for them, and guide them over and over again yet they consistently forgot, disobeyed, doubted, and reacted out of faithless fear. This pattern became such a problem that God sentenced them to life wandering the desert and only brought the next generation into the promised land (Deuteronomy 1:35). Are you stuck in the desert because of a lack of faith? Have you forgotten his wonders, miracles, and judgements? We are more like the doubting and forgetful Israelites than we often want to admit. We have to be intentional about taking note and giving God all the glory for what he has done for us! His miracles range from ones we take for granted like giving us breath in our lungs today from bending the rules of the universe to showing us his love. Our souls benefit from daily practice of gratitude for the seemingly small to the wondrous and everything in between. We must remind ourselves that God is GREAT! He is able to do more than we could ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20)! Living with gratitude creates in us a posture of expectation so when we have a need our automatic response is one of faith. We remember that God is the one who provides all we need. God honors our faith. He tells us that all it takes is the faith of a mustard seed to see anything that we need happen (Matthew 17:20). Faith is key to seeing God’s miracle working power unlocked in our lives. Remembering what God has done to bring us to the place we are in the moment encourages our hearts when the going gets tough. My husband and I have five kids and two of them have joined our family through foster care and adoption. Sometimes being parents of all these kids is hard. All five of them come with their own personalities, needs, and I can begin to doubt God’s good plan in placing us altogether on those very hard days. But then I remember all that he has done! He did so many miracles to put our family together in such a special way. Remembering encourages my heart, reminding me that I am exactly where God wants me to be. The hardness of this role does not mean I’m in the wrong place. God placed me where I am on purpose with a purpose. Remembering his miracles reminds me I am just where he wants me to be. Intersecting Faith and Life Take time to remember all God has done for you. What miracles have you observed in your life? How have you seen his wonder at work around you? Pause for gratitude. Write down what you are grateful for as a daily practice. Repent of faithless living. How have you doubted God’s ability and goodness? Let him know you are sorry for not remembering how great a God he is! Further Reading Exodus 15:22-18:27 Does God Still Perform Miracles Today? Mini-Miracles Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God is big enough to handle it. We thank God for this. We thank God that He hears our prayer, and that He, in all His might and power, is handling what we cannot effectively handle on our own. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: How to Defeat Worry By Kelly Balarie “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” – Phil. 4:6-7 NKJV I wanted my daughter’s birthday party to be perfect, but what if something went wrong? What if she didn’t like the bunk bed that we’d spent countless hours searching for? What if I spent too much money on it? What if it wasn’t stable when it arrived at the house? I didn’t get her any bunk bed – I got her the super special one. The expensive one. I went above and beyond. Now, there was pressure tied to this purchase. I will be upset if she doesn’t like it because of how much I have invested in this. I will be annoyed if we have to tear it down after all the assembly required. Worrying wreaks havoc on joy. Worry is pressure. Worry is pressure because everything may go wrong. Worry is pressure to make things go a specific way. Worry is pressure to avoid the worst from happening. Worry is pressure that people respond how we want them to. Worry wrestles with the forces we cannot control. The worst part about worry is that it not only tear us up on the inside but it causes others to suffer the brunt of it as well. If my daughter doesn’t like this bed that I’ve invested so much into, I’ll feel annoyed at her. I’ll think she is ungrateful. Worrying wreaks havoc on joy. Where might we feel worried? Are we worried about work? A family member? A house issue? A future that looks dim? And, what is the alternative to worry? “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” – Phil. 4:6-7 NKJV In this verse, God gives us a clear-cut way to defeat worry. Let’s break it down some. We first, tell ourselves, “I refuse to be anxious. I will not be anxious for anything.” In this, we decide and resolve that there is no thing worth us being anxious about. We draw a line in the sand. Further, we pray and ask God to handle the thing we need. As we pray, we rest our scary problem into his capable hands. By doing this, we fully release it. Just as you might catch a fish and release it back into the water, we release the burden entirely and let it float away from us. God is big enough to handle it. We thank God for this. We thank God that He hears our prayer, and that He, in all His might and power, is handling we cannot effectively handle on our own. Finally, because we recognize God’s bigness, we can receive His peace. He has this worry in His hands. He knows the best way. He will give us all we need to confront the issue. He has the equipping grace and will afford us what we need. He knows the end from the beginning. This brings peace. Intersecting Faith & Life: What do you tend to worry about? Worry is like a carousel of thoughts; the endless circling of a problem gets one nowhere. Just think: A carousel never travels any markable distance. It just runs circles around the center of the issue. How has worry ever helped you gain ground? How solved anything? What would it look like for you to put your worries into the hands of God. He created the whole world; don’t you think He can handle what you face today? Kelly uplifts believers with boosts of faith; find encouragement by getting Kelly’s blog posts by email. Kelly, creator of the “Hear God’s Voice” podcast, is also a blogger, national speaker, and author of Take Every Thought Captive, Rest Now, Battle Ready, and Fear Fighting. Kelly, a real cheerleader of faith, loves seeing the power of prayer in live action. She loves seeing the look on people’s faces when they realize –God is faithful! Kelly’s work has been featured on The Today Show, CBN’s 700 Club, Relevant and Today’s Christian Woman. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God’s supportive strength isn’t reserved only for Olympians. God makes it available to each of us, as well. Just as athletes face different outcomes at the Olympics, we also encounter a spectrum of experiences in our own lives. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: God Will Strengthen You in All Situations By: Whitney Hopler, Crosswalk.com Contributing Writer “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13, NIV As we watch the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, we see athletes from all around the world competing with impressive strength. The Olympic Games highlights some of the strongest people on our planet – athletes who have spent years working hard in training, to develop top skills in their sports. They’ve focused on strengthening themselves both physically and mentally to prepare for the pressure of intense competitions. For some of these Olympic athletes, the Paris Games will lead to victory as they achieve their dreams of winning medals. They will celebrate moments of success, and so will their coaches, families, friends, and nations. Stories of their triumphs will be shared widely, inspiring people around the world. For other athletes, these Olympics will lead to defeat as they lose competitions or even have to pull out of competing due to illness or injury. Athletes who don’t meet their goals – or who even suffer heartbreaking losses – may be profoundly disappointed from falling short after years of preparation. They may question their future in their sports, or even their own self-worth. In Olympic moments of both victory and defeat, one truth remains constant: God’s love for each athlete is complete and unconditional. God’s love is not contingent on success or failure. It doesn’t require any medals won or records broken to earn. It can’t be lost like a sports competition can be. Instead, God loves all the athletes – both those who win, and those who lose – simply because of who they are. God sees beyond the outcomes of the competitions to the souls of each individual he has lovingly created. God cherishes them, supports them, and is ready to empower them with his unlimited strength to handle any situation well. Just like Phillipians 4:13 says, the athletes can do all things through God, who strengthens them. They can be strong in any type of circumstances – either good or bad – if they rely on God as their source of strength. For athletes who are victorious, God is there to bring them joy and to remind them that their worth is based on his love for them, not on their achievements. For athletes who face disappointment, God is there to offer encouragement and to remind them that their value is not diminished by a loss. God’s supportive strength isn’t reserved only for Olympians. God makes it available to each of us, as well. Just as athletes face different outcomes at the Olympics, we also encounter a spectrum of experiences in our own lives. We sometimes win by achieving our goals and sometimes lose by missing out on what we want. Regardless of our circumstances, God’s promise remains true: He is always there to strengthen us. Phillipians 4:13 directs our attention to the limitless strength that God provides. Whether we are seeing our dreams come true or suffering through challenging situations, we can rely on God’s strength to see us through. The strength God gives us encompasses everything we need strength for – physical endurance, emotional resilience, mental fortitude, and spiritual sustenance. We can “do all things” – which means that we can handle any situation we encounter well – when we rely on God’s strength to help us do so. The more we connect with God’s presence with us in all circumstances, and the more we pray for God to help us when we need strength, the stronger we can become. So, let Olympic athletes inspire you to seek strength from the ultimate source of strength: God himself. God’s strength will be there for you when your life is going well and you achieve your goals. It will also be there for you when you feel overwhelmed by stress or discouraged by disappointing situations. No matter what happens as you run the race of faith, God will empower you to handle it well. Intersecting Faith and Life As you consider how you can rely on God’s strength to help you in all situations, reflect on these questions: What are some situations in your life where you need God’s strength the most? How have you experienced God’s strength in the past? Are there any areas in your life where you are trying to rely on your own strength rather than seeking God’s help? If so, how can you trust God more in those areas? How can you remind yourself to turn to God for strength during both the good times and the difficult times you encounter? What habits can you develop to stay connected to God’s strength on a daily basis? Further Readin

if you are stuck in a season of discouragement it’s time to start counting up the good. We bless the Lord when we make note of his goodness and beauty at work in our life. He doesn’t want us to forget to see his benefits. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Psalm 103:2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, Life can get heavy. We each start our days with a “patience tank” and it seems that as the day goes on that tank gets depleted down to empty. Sometimes that tank can hit empty before seven am if you have demanding kids that wake up before the sun rises. Stress depletes our patience and joy. Over time if we don’t get a break from those patience draining days we can feel ourselves facing burnout and then our tank is underfilled before the day even begins. We just can’t catch up and find ourselves not being the people we want to be. Instead we see a frantic, angry, impatient, and very frustrated version of ourselves emerge so much more than we’d like. As I’ve been wading through this dynamic in my life as a Mom, I’ve found myself feeling very discouraged. When I review my day all I see are my failures. I am fixated on how I should have been kinder to my child, more diligent with another kid, or more loving in general. I’ve just been stuck on the idea that I’m not good enough for this life I’ve been given. The other day I was once again taking a mental recap of what I should have done better as a parent when the Holy Spirit stopped me with his whisper voice. He told me to write down what I did okay as a Mom that day and maybe even just over this past year and a half since we’ve become a family of seven through foster care and adoption. My list began with simple things like I woke up to take my kids to their swim meet, I made sure everyone had food for breakfast, I celebrated my kids wins with food and ice cream, and I made sure my younger kids were cared for on this busy day. These are things I mostly look over as a parent, the ways I serve and give everyday in my home. Instead I am constantly working on my life improvement plan but God wants me to stop and see that there is good in my days as a parent. He even can help me appreciate the hard growing moments that happen because they are part of us being a family. This is not to overlook our need to apologize when we mess up and change our behavior when we are stuck. But the enemy-of-our-souls wants to bog us down in our not enoughness that we can’t see how we with God we are more than overcomers! Discouragement breeds hopelessness which halts our ability to live by faith. So if you are stuck in a season of discouragement it’s time to start counting up the good. We bless the Lord when we make note of his goodness and beauty at work in our life. He doesn’t want us to forget to see his benefits. Maybe parenthood isn’t your hard place but work is. Start to note the ways you are blessing your company, coworkers, and doing what you can to excel in your job. It could be that you are discouraged as a spouse or maybe as a daughter, son, friend, and the list goes on. The real truth is that we each offer value to the places we are because we are made in the image of God. While the struggle of life is real, his blessings that come through us are good. Intersecting Faith and Life Start a daily list of how you are doing okay in an area you have felt discouraged. I say okay because sometimes we are too discouraged to even use the word “good” . These things don’t need to be major wins but tiny ways that you showed up and served well. Give God glory for the blessings he has given you. Next make a list of what has been weighing on you. Maybe it’s a lack of patience, depression, anxiety, a need for wisdom, or something else. Pray over this need and hand it to Jesus. Ask him to show him what tools you need and what steps to take but let go of the shame you’ve been carrying around. His grace is sufficient to cover our needs. Further Reading Count ‘Em By Brandon Lake A Morning Prayer to Count Your Blessings - Your Daily Prayer - February 25 Counting Our Blessings Cultivates a Grateful Heart Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The love of God is not a response to how great we are, or how good we can be. The love of God is not a possession that we yield, or an accolade we merit. Love is the foundation of who God is. Love is the full identification of God’s being and it existed over us before any action or mistake in our lives. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Is God’s love true or real? “This is love, not that we loved God, but God loved us and sent his only son into this world so that we might live through him.” (1 John 4:10) In his book, “Seeing is Believing”, theologian Greg Boyd makes a distinction between something that is true, and something that is real. To say something is true is to affirm something about it – to make some sort of declaration. Importantly, you can claim something to be true without having any personal interaction with it. For example, I know that the city of Paris is true, even though I have never been there. The fact is truth is an intellectual property more than a personal experience. But to say something is real, says Boyd, is to have a personal experience of it. We can talk about the truth of God’s love easily enough. We can pose questions about it, we can read books about it, we write essays and blogs about it; But love calls us deeper than just affirming the truth of God’s love as some intellectual assent to a theological doctrine. God’s desire is for us to experience the reality – the realness – of his love, and it is for that purpose that God sent Jesus into the world. See, the love of God is not a response to how great we are, or how good we can be. The love of God is not a possession that we yield, or an accolade we merit. Love is the foundation of who God is. Love is the full identification of God’s being and it existed over us before any action or mistake in our lives. True, we might deny it, and we might choose to live away from it, but because God’s love for us is real, we can do nothing to negate it. God’s love for us exists just as much as God exists. In complete self-offering, God’s love has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit. Scripture reminds us of this not because it’s a nice thought, or a hope-filled idea, but because it is a reality that encompasses us. It is real for our lives! God’s love for you is real, and to know God is to know that love, deeply, intimate, profoundly. God’s divine, magnificent, earth-shattering, radical, and unyielding love transforms us. It pushes aside all that bars our knowledge of Christ. It pushes aside fear of punishment, fear of not being good enough, fear of missing out or messing up; fear of being rejected. John writes that there is no fear in love because love’s only mission, God’s only mission, is to produce life. This means that the number one thing that God wants from you right now, is for you let Him love you. Intersecting faith in Life. It can be easy to base our spiritual life on a faulty premise of earning. In this word of merit and deserve, we might think that doing loving things earns God’s love for us. Talk about loving others, even showing our faith, becomes rooted in some sort of ethic of deserve. If I do x, God will lovingly do y, we think. But that is not how God’s love works. “This is love”, writes John, not that we loved God, but God loved us and sent his only son into this world so that we might live through him.” What if God’s doesn’t want you to try harder, or to study more. What if God isn’t setting up a long list of tasks through which you can prove your worth. What if God just wants to love you, as you are, in this moment. Now that can be scary. To be loved is to be vulnerable – and to be truly loved, is to accept that love even in your ugliest moments. But it is when we experience love in that place that we find healing and growth. So where do we start? We start by dropping our defenses and letting the love of God flow in. God first loved us”, writes John (1John 4:10), which means our heavenly Father the active agent and we are the recipients. The question that we sit with is: do you want to experience the love of God? Do you want to know God’s love, not as a truth to ponder, but as something to feel, as a reality to be enfolded? God’s desire for you is to have you experience the fullness of that love. And in an astounding act of grace, God has made receiving that love very simple. All you need to do is open yourself to accept the gift that is perpetually held out to you in the presence of Jesus. As you are right now, facing whatever it is you are facing and dealing with whatever it is your dealing with, dare to believe that Jesus stands with you, and offers you, his love. As surely as he is there, so is his love for you. Yes, the love of God is true, absolutely and eternally, but it is also so much more. It is real, and it is something you can experience, and

Just as athletes train rigorously to compete at the highest levels, we are called to train ourselves in holiness. Spiritual training promises benefits not only for our current lives, but far beyond, for eternity! SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Train Yourself for a Holy Life By: Whitney Hopler, Crosswalk.com Contributing Writer “Train yourself for a holy life! While physical training has some value, training in holy living is useful for everything. It has promise for this life now and the life to come.” – 1 Timothy 4:7-8, CEB During the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, we are captivated by the dedication and achievements of athletes from around the world. These champions have spent countless hours building their skills in 32 different sports. Their dedication to physical training is evident in their strength, agility, and endurance. Each competition showcases the extraordinary capabilities of the human body when trained to its peak performance. Olympic athletes show us the pinnacle of what people can achieve from physical training. Consider the graceful precision of a gymnast on a balance beam, the explosive speed of a sprint runner, the creative choreography of a breaker, or the power of a swimmer cutting through the water. These athletes have committed their lives to rigorous training regimens, strict schedules, and relentless practice. They sacrifice comfort and leisure to achieve excellence, driven by the desire to compete at the highest level and perhaps win the gold medal of their dreams. Yet, as awe-inspiring as their physical accomplishments are, the Bible tells us that there’s something far more important. Even though physical training has some value, training in holy living holds even greater value. Just as athletes train rigorously to compete at the highest levels, we are called to train ourselves in holiness. Spiritual training promises benefits not only for our current lives, but far beyond, for eternity! That’s because our bodies are only temporary but our souls live forever. The effort we put into growing more holy will bring us rewards that never end. It’s more than worthwhile to train for a holy life. However, we need to be committed to doing so. Spiritual training requires dedication, practice, and perseverance, just like physical training does. The inspiration we draw from watching Olympic athletes can fuel our desire to excel in our own lives. While we may not ever compete in the Olympic Games, we should prepare for something even greater – lives in heaven with our holy God. Here are some ways we can train ourselves for living holy lives: Regular prayer and meditation: Just as athletes follow a strict training schedule, we should build prayer and meditation habits we enjoy, which will motivate us to stick to those habits every day. We can set aside specific times each day for prayer (talking with God) and meditation (listening to God), making these spiritual disciplines a non-negotiable part of our routine. One of the ways we can listen to God is by meditating on God’s Word, the Bible. When we internalize Bible verses, God will use those verses to guide our thoughts and actions so we can make the best decisions day by day. Community friendships: Engaging with a community of believers gives us encouragement, accountability, and support that can help us grow spiritually. Just as athletes train with coaches and teammates, we can benefit from the guidance and companionship of our fellow Christians. We can build friendships with others in our church by attending worship services regularly, participating in a small group, and seeking out mentors who can help us grow. Self-discipline: Like athletes who resist unhealthy habits, we must exercise self-control to avoid sin and pursue righteousness. We can ask the Holy Spirit to help us develop more self-control, so we can turn away from temptations that will lead us farther away from God and instead pursue activities that help us grow closer to God. So, as we watch the dedication and discipline of Olympic athletes in action, let’s get inspired to excel in our walks with God! Imagine the spiritual endurance we can build, the strength of character we can develop, and the close relationships with God we can achieve when we commit to training ourselves in holiness. Just as Olympians keep their eyes on the prize, we should focus on the eternal reward that awaits us. The discipline and perseverance we cultivate in our spiritual lives will not only enrich our earthly lives now, but also prepare us for an eternity in heaven with God. Intersecting Faith and Life As you consider how important it is to train well to live a holy life, reflect on these questions: How does the discipline of Olympic athletes inspire you to be more disciplined in your spiritual life? In what ways can you incorporate daily spiri

Just as our surroundings shift when a storm is coming, so too do our ordinary circumstances when the Lord comes onto the scene. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: A Change in Atmosphere by Deidre Braley When I was just a bare-footed wild child growing up on the edge of a great Maine wood, I would relish the hot, midsummer nights when the sky would turn dark and turbulent as a blackened eye and thunder would begin its war drum in the distance. On these evenings, my parents would bring my sister and I out onto our covered porch and we’d sit there, watching and waiting with half-held breath until hot electricity finally struck its purple zing across the sky. I was no meteorologist, but even as a child I knew there was a powerful shift happening in the atmosphere. The whole world felt pregnant, magnetic, anticipatory. In the storm-filled air, my breath felt different. Familiar objects like our house, our chairs, the rusty blue swingset—they seemed novel in this light. Even my mother and father seemed changed. I felt as though anything could and would happen, here in this familiar-but-foreign environment. When I hear people talk about God as if he’s boring—as though he is just a set of hymns stuck in the back of a stubborn old church pew—I want to grab their hands, pull them outside, and tilt their chins to the electric excitement all around them, just like my parents did for me when a storm blew in. I want to say, “Look! Listen! Feel! Can you sense it—this palpable change in the air when the Holy Spirit comes into our midst?” Zephaniah 3:17 says, “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.” Just as our surroundings shift when a storm is coming, so too do our ordinary circumstances when the Lord comes onto the scene. Our problems look different when examined under his light. Our hanging heads can’t help but lift toward the timbre of his voice. Our raging, fearful hearts settle in the presence of his quietude. This is the wonder of God: that wherever he is, anything and everything can happen. Even our most commonplace lives can become electric with possibility when they’re brought into the midst of our great Creator. And even our most troubling problems can take on new form when we let God remold them in his hands. That is why it is so important to be intentional about entering into God’s presence each day. If we spend all of our time looking at our lives from a worldly perspective, we’ll quickly become disoriented, disengaged, or just completely discouraged. But when we spend time with the Lord, he doesn’t make us stand at the threshold of the throne room—he hurries us in and shows us the world from his perspective. Even if nothing on the outside seems changed after these encounters, the air inside our souls will have undergone a tangible, atmospheric shift—allowing us to experience the same old world in a whole new way. Intersecting Faith & Life: Does it feel difficult to feel God’s presence in your life right now—and to believe he hasthe power to change the atmosphere of any of your current circumstances? Read throughJob 38-39, and mark which examples of God’s might and omniscience are most strikingto you. When you begin to doubt if he can make a difference in your life, practice saying, “If God can [insert one of the examples you marked], then he can [make a specific change in your life]. It might sound something like this: “If God can ‘loosen Orion’s belt’ (Job 8:31), then he can also provide the money I’ll need to service my car this week.” Being in nature is an incredible way to remember God’s power and awe-inspiringattributes. Romans 1:20 says, “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.” Take a walk on the beach, lay on your back beneath the stars, or—better yet—pull up a chair and watch a storm. Bring your awareness to God, and praise him. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When we think about someone becoming a disciple that means that the person accepts Jesus’ sacrifice. Jesus did not say, rely on your pastor or the evangelist to share the gospel, He called you and me to go and make disciples of Jesus. A large reason why church is not growing is because the enemy has caused the church as a whole to sit back and believe that the gospel is true but it is not our job to share. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: One of the Sneakiest Lies Satan is Telling the ChurchWritten By: Emma Danzey Matthew 28:19-20 says, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Have you wondered why the church is not growing as rapidly as you hoped? Is it as shocking to you as it is to me that the church in America is not growing from conversion, but from church transfer? In 2015 Bonnie Kristian shared from Relevant Magazine, “So while the statistics about the American church are troubling, American Christianity is far from the only thing going. Consider: In 1900, Europe and North America housed 82 percent of Christians worldwide.• By 2010, just 38 percent of professed Christians lived on these two continents.• By 2050, that projected figure is a mere 27 percent.” She goes on to share how although the church is dying here, it is exploding in Africa, Asia and Latin America. This was almost 10 years ago, and today Emma Davis from Reach Right Studios shares, “Only 16% of churches in the US are experiencing growth or hyper expansion.” One of the sneakiest lies that Satan is telling the church is, “It is not my job to share the gospel.” Jesus’ last words to His disciples on earth was for them to go and make disciples of all nations and that He would be with them. This is still a command for every believer in Jesus today. “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations” When we think about someone becoming a disciple that means that the person accepts Jesus’ sacrifice. Jesus did not say, rely on your pastor or the evangelist to share the gospel, He called you and me to go and make disciples of Jesus. A large reason why church is not growing is because the enemy has caused the church as a whole to sit back and believe that the gospel is true but it is not our job to share. We do not want to “step on toes,” we fear what others will think about us, we like staying in our Christian circles, or we just simply do not know how to share our faith because no one has ever taught us. We are all coming from different backgrounds and experiences, but the Lord wants to use us as His vessels to share the hope of heaven with others. He has invited us into building His kingdom. The response of another person is not on us, but we are called to offer the gospel and trust the Holy Spirit to move. We leave the results up to Him. I was recently speaking with a 60-year-old friend and he shared that if he heard that the results were left to the Holy Spirit, he would have felt freer sharing his faith growing up. Unfortunately, he was taught that if a person did not accept Christ, then it was his fault. This caused him to feel defeated at ever even trying to share the gospel. He had a defeated mentality. The enemy so often uses this lie and redirects our eyes to the wrong thing, instead of resting in the work of the Spirit and relying on the living and active Word of God. Baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, We do not just share the good news of the gospel with others, we disciple them. Just like Jesus taught and walked alongside the disciples, we too are invited to walk alongside others on their faith journeys. We celebrate when they are baptized, we help them when trials come up, we pray with and for them, we study the Bible with them, we are in genuine relationship with them. No, we cannot do this with everyone we meet. However, this is why it is not just the pastor’s job, this is the role of the church. We are the body of Christ, we function best when everyone is involved and connected. We know that we serve the Triune God who is still working and still baptizing people. And teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. We disciple and we teach others to grow in God’s Word and relationship with Him. We also model to them how to share their faith with others. Spiritual multiplication happens when believers in Jesus begin to disciple others and send them out to share the gospel. It is the great commission. It is our calling as believers in Christ to share Him with the world. This starts right in our communities, thinking about who is around us who needs Him. Inters

Despite our differences, we share a common purpose: to seek God, reach out to him, and discover that God is right there with us. From the beginning, God made all nations from one person. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: God’s Global Family By: Whitney Hopler, Crosswalk.com Contributing Writer “From one person God made all nations who live on earth, and he decided when and where every nation would be. God has done all this, so that we will look for him and reach out and find him. He isn’t far from any of us, and he gives us the power to live, to move, and to be who we are. ‘We are his children,’ just as some of your poets have said.” – Acts 17:26-28, CEV The Olympic flag, which displays 5 connected rings representing our planet’s inhabited continents, was designed to show how nations around the globe can come together in peace and friendship. The 5 different colors of the rings were planned so that athletes from every nation on earth could identify at least one color from his or her own nation’s flag. At the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, athletes from more than 200 different nations worldwide are participating. The Olympic Games shine a powerful spotlight on the world’s nations. Watching the Olympics, we learn about both the diverse sports and the diverse national cultures represented there. In Acts 17:26-28, the Bible points out that God has intentionally created and placed each nation and individual in their specific time and place on earth. The diversity we see around us is not accidental; it is a deliberate part of God’s design. The Bible also reveals that God’s plan for each of us is to search for him and find him. God is the loving Heavenly Father of a global family of humans. We’re all connected, by God’s design, and God wants to have close relationships with every one of us around the world. From the beginning, God made all nations from one person – Adam, the first human being – to show us our shared origin and interconnectedness. We are all a part of God’s global family. Each nation and each person makes a valuable contribution to our world. This diversity reflects the creativity and vastness of God’s nature. Despite our differences, we share a common purpose: to seek God, reach out to him, and discover that God is right here with us. God’s proximity to us is a source of great comfort. He is not a distant deity, but a caring Father who empowers us to live, move, and be who we are. Our identity and existence are rooted in God. No matter where we are in the world, we have access to God’s love and guidance. As God’s children, we are called to embrace our identity and live in a way that reflects God’s love and unity. We can honor this truth by recognizing the value in every person, regardless of their background. We can also celebrate the diversity of God’s creation while seeking to build bridges of understanding and compassion. By doing so, we fulfill our role as members of God’s global family, letting God’s love flow through us to a world that desperately needs it. Let the Olympics inspire you to learn more about the different nations in our world, and the people who live there. Try food from different nations at ethnic restaurants. Listen to music from around the world. Watch documentaries about various countries. Talk with someone you know who is an immigrant and listen to his or her stories. If possible, plan to visit nations that especially interest you, so you can experience their distinctive cultures yourself. The more you learn about your global family, the more you can learn about the Heavenly Father we all share! Intersecting Faith and Life As you consider how you’re a valuable part of God’s global family, reflect on these questions: How does understanding that God made all nations from one person influence your view of humanity? What are some practical steps you can take to build bridges of understanding and compassion with people from different backgrounds? How can you celebrate and embrace the diversity of God’s creation in your community? How does knowing that God gives you the power to live, move, and be who you are impact your sense of identity and purpose? In what ways can you actively seek God and reach out to him in your daily life? Further Reading Genesis 1:27 Psalm 139:13-14 John 17:21 Galatians 3:28 Ephesians 2:14 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Take some time alone with the Holy Spirit today. Tell him you want to feel his presence and spend time with him. Consider asking him some questions to get to know him better, like: SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Soul Brother By Deidre Braley I studied abroad in Spain for one semester of college. One weekend, my friends and I made a short, cheap trip to Barcelona, where we spent most of our time hunting for free sightings of Salvador Dalí’s work and staying in a crummy hostel. And while I remember very little about where we ate, what we saw, or even how we afforded to get there, I’ll never forget the way I felt when I met a fellow traveler one evening as we were leaving our room. This person was from England, and with a group of friends who were also traveling for the weekend. By chance, we’d all happened to exit our rooms at the same time, and as we bumbled through the narrow hallway we introduced ourselves, talking about where we were from and feeling quite jovial that we could drop our subpar Spanish skills and simply communicate in English for a while. Have you ever met a total stranger whom you feel an instant connection with, as though you’ve known them your whole life? This is how I felt with one of the members of this group. On the outside, it would appear we had nothing in common, except that we spoke the same language. But on the inside, I felt my soul coming alive with recognition. I had the rare sensation of being completely seen and known—as though this person and I were kindred spirits, or that maybe we’d been cut from the same cloth when God was spinning us into existence. By the end of the night, we were strolling down the streets of Barcelona arm-in-arm, talking conspiratorially about inside jokes only we seemed to understand. I never saw that person again, but thinking about that night reminds me that there is another who we can have this kind of soul connection with: Jesus. I often find myself daydreaming about what it will be like to meet Jesus for the first time. I wonder what he’ll look like and what he’ll smell like, what he’ll say and how he’ll smile. But if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that he will feel like a soul brother. 1 John 4:13 says, “This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit.” See, when we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior of our lives, we don’t have to spend the rest of our time earthside waiting to meet him. He puts his Spirit inside of us, enabling us to connect with him on the most intimate of levels. “In Christ you also were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and when you believed,” Ephesians 1:13-14 reads. “The Holy Spirit is the down payment of our inheritance, until the redemption of the possession, to the praise of his glory.” In this way, we can hear, know, and commune with his Spirit even as we wait for the fulfillment of our inheritance and our redemption. I imagine that the time we spend with the Holy Spirit in this life will prepare us for that familiar feeling of reunion with Jesus in the next. As we wait and long to meet Jesus face-to-face one day, we needn’t wonder what he’ll be like. Rather, we can turn to the Spirit that he’s placed inside us and begin getting to know him better today. And when we do finally open a door and bump into Jesus one day? Why, he won’t feel like a stranger. He’ll be a soul brother—and we’ll be linking arms and exchanging secrets in no time. Intersecting Faith & Life: Take some time alone with the Holy Spirit today. Tell him you want to feel his presence and spend time with him. Consider asking him some questions to get to know him better, like: What makes you smile? What would you like me to know about you? What do you ask of me today? Then, allow yourself to sit in silence and solitude. Record any specific impressions you feel, any words you hear, or any pictures you see in your mind. As you grow in this practice, you will likely grow in your awareness of his presence—and also your ability to hear and understand him. Further Reading: Romans 8 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God is focused on relationship. We tend to be focused on activity. He is the One who tells us to "be still" (Psalm 46:10) and to come to Him and rest (Matthew 11:28). We are the ones who are striving to do more. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: What More Does God Want Me to Do? by Cindi McMenamin "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:37 NASB) Do you ever feel burnt out with all that you’re doing for God? Perhaps your life revolves around ministry or maybe you just wonder sometimes if God’s pleased with you or if you should be doing more. We live in a culture focused on doing to the point that busyness is our badge of success and multi-tasking in the church is what appears to others—and ourselves—as ultra-spiritual. But although a relationship with the living God produces a desire to obey Him and serve Him, that service results in joy and rest, not perpetual stress! In my book, When Women Long for Rest, I point out that God would rather have us be with Him than do a bunch of things for Him. I see that in Jesus' response to a man who asked Him about the greatest of all the commandments. Jesus' answer was "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." God is focused on relationship. We tend to be focused on activity. He is the One who tells us to "be still" (Psalm 46:10) and to come to Him and rest (Matthew 11:28). We are the ones who are striving to do more. Yet, as we spend time cultivating a love relationship with God, we will then know how to serve others and we will be able to discern His gentle voice saying, "This is what I have for you" or "Step in and help her with that." But it will never be at the expense of overlooking our primary responsibilities or feeling over-extended. Jesus, after all, told His closest followers, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest" (Mark 6:31), not "Let's try to cover even more territory today by working even harder!" Intersecting Faith and Life: If you are caring for young children, or working full time, or someone who constantly has your hands full (and who doesn't these days?), let me remind you of these three principles when it comes to doing more for God: Grow in your love for Him and the labor will follow—but in the way He wants, not in the way your guilt determines. As you sit at God’s feet, He will eventually call you to get up and serve Him. But if we aren't taking time to be still, open His Word, and listen for His voice and direction, how can we possibly know how and where we are to serve Him? Look for where He is calling you to serve and go where He leads. This is difficult if you tend to be a people-pleaser. Yes, there are Sundays when you may need to help in the church nursery because someone didn't show up and you know it's the right thing to do. But in terms of regular service for the Lord, wait upon God, pray for timing and clarity and walk through the doors that He opens, don't try to pry them open yourself or walk through them out of guilt. Ministry isn't limited to Sundays. When we think of "doing something" for God, we tend to think of activity in the church building. While each of us in the body of Christ is to exercise our spiritual gifts in a way that uplifts and encourages the rest of the body, that implies connection with a local church where you can be your "part" in the functioning body of Christ. But that doesn't mean that ministry occurs only within a church setting. Ministry happens anywhere that you are salt and light on this earth and wherever Christ is glorified through you. Your greatest ministry right now may be to support and encourage your spouse or to invest spiritually in the lives of your children. If you have a job outside the church but feel you need to do more inside the church, find that balance so you can still be used effectively no matter where you are. Followers of Christ tend to forget the amazing ministry they can have simply by living next to and working alongside non-believers and continuing to live as followers of Christ. Remember, our works and activity for God are not something we do to earn God's favor. Jesus did enough to secure God's forgiveness and acceptance of us when He gave His perfect life in exchange for ours as a penalty for our sin. Our service, in light of what Christ did for us on the cross, is simply to show our love and obedience to Him. It's our way of saying "I've been freed from the yoke of sin and I have a new master now...it's the Lord Jesus." Serving Him from that mindset brings joy, not stress. Serve Him out of inspiration, not obligation, and you may find that instead of feeling guilt for not doing enough, you are feeling so very privileged to do the little that you can. Lord, show us today how to serve Yo

Is there a bible verse that keeps coming to mind? Are you unable to get it out of your head? Maybe God is putting it there for good reason. Pray and ask Him what He wants you to know. Here are 3 ways to know when God is talking to you. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: 3 Ways to Recognize When God is Talking to You By Kelly Balarie “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” – Psalm 19:1 NIV I walked with a friend. Struggling with a sickness that was incredibly hard, I sought just the right words to encourage her. No words would suffice. What do you say when there is nothing to say? I’ve learned, listening is always more powerful than speaking when one is going through the wringer of life. So, I asked her questions and then let her speak. I actively repeated what she spoke to let her know that I was hearing her heart. Eventually, the moment of awkward silence arrived where I had nothing left to ask. I needed to say something. God, help me?!! I looked towards my feet, pondering what to say. A leaf caught my attention. Amazingly, it was shaped like a heart. I knew God wanted me to share His love for her. He gave me an answer to my inner unsaid pleading for just the right words!! “God loves you so much.” I told her. A well-spoken word at just the right moment has the ability to break through to a person’s heart like nothing else. God reminded me of His heart for my friend through nature. This is one of the many ways that God speaks to us. Scripture says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” – Psalm 19:1 NIV How else does God speak? The second way that God speaks is through the Word of God. To store His Words in our heart is to hear them sound in our mind when the going gets tough. When my kids act up, sometimes I feel afraid. When fear comes at me a mile a minute because I have stored God’s Word in my mind, I often hear a bible verse pop in my head. His Word kills my fear. The third way God speaks to us is through people. Have you ever experienced a repeat situation time and time again? Maybe it feels like people are always telling you the same thing. Once, I had a women’s minister at a church tell me that I was intense. Again, a friend, I prayed with told me I also was intense. I started to feel a little upset about that. People don’t want to be around intense people. However, the more I considered their words, the more I realized that Jesus was intense too. God was communicating to me, through people’s words that what people noted about me, was something He loved and created. How might God be trying to reach you? Intersecting Faith & Life: Is there a bible verse that keeps coming to mind? Are you unable to get it out of your head? Maybe God is putting it there for good reason. Pray and ask Him what He wants you to know. Do you keep running into a similar situation with people? What might God be trying to say to you through this? Do you ever sit and look at God’s creation? What can you surmise about God’s character and nature based on how He has created the world? Kelly uplifts believers with boosts of faith; find encouragement by getting Kelly’s blog posts by email. Kelly, creator of the “Hear God’s Voice” podcast, is also a blogger, national speaker, and author of Take Every Thought Captive, Rest Now, Battle Ready, and Fear Fighting. Kelly, a real cheerleader of faith, loves seeing the power of prayer in live action. She loves seeing the look on people’s faces when they realize –God is faithful! Kelly’s work has been featured on The Today Show, CBN’s 700 Club, Relevant and Today’s Christian Woman. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God’s plans are already being carried out through our lives. As you are presently in this tough season of life, lean on God. Find support in Him and trust Him with your life. The plans He has for you will prevail and they will be glorious. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: How Can I Take Comfort in God’s Plans for My Life? By Vivian Bricker “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” – Jeremiah 29:11 Due to living in a fallen world, we are always coming across problems. Problems with work, our relationships, and our health can leave us feeling worn out. It never feels as though we can get a break. Instead of being relieved once one problem is resolved, a hundred new problems replace it. Whenever we are feeling like this, we need to turn to the Lord and know that He has a beautiful plan for our lives. There have been many times in my life where I don't feel like there is a purpose to the pain I am experiencing—there is only suffering. We are often taught that pain makes us stronger, when sometimes it can actually make us weaker. Every pain, every tear, and every heartache does not lead us to something greater. Instead, it can lead us to meet the end of the road. Plans we previously had for our lives seem to be non-existent and we don't even know how we are going to make it to the end of the month. When these issues arise, we can find lasting hope and purpose in God. He has great plans for our life. Through the pain, we can see His will more clearly and we take joy in knowing that our suffering is never forgotten by Him. Recently, I had an issue in my life that God worked through. I thought I was going to have to make a major life change; however, God kept me where I was. He placed me on level ground and told me I was right where He wanted me to be. From that day, I felt the assurance of the Lord. His plans for me would never be sabotaged by anything or anyone, including myself or this season of suffering. His goodness and his love will ensure all of the plans He has for our lives will be accomplished. Some of them might not be completed in the ways we once thought; however, we can trust in His plans. We might be lacking direction or guidance, but God never does. He will direct and guide each of our steps. In Jeremiah 29:11, the Lord tells us He already knows the plans He has for us and that these plans will prosper us. They will not harm us in any way. Rather, these plans will give us hope and a future. Whenever we are unsure about the future, we need to rely on God’s plans for our lives. Your present season of suffering will not endure forever because the Lord has beautiful plans for your future. This future will not harm you nor will it cause you problems. It will only give you hope and surround you with the Lord’s goodness. Choose to live out this truth today by walking confidently in Jesus’ promise. The plans God has for our lives is far greater than anything we could ever imagine. If you are presently going through a season of suffering, rest in the truth that you will be brought out into a season of joy. Similar to how the physical seasons change, this season of life will change too. The suffering and pain you are experiencing now will not endure forever. Intersecting Faith & Life: This season might last for a while, but you can continue to trust God. No matter what season of life we find ourselves in, we can know with confidence that God is working all things out for our good (Romans 8:28). It is not a pleasant season right now; however, God’s plans for your life are still being fulfilled. There is nothing we can do to mess up God’s plans for our lives nor is there any season of life that can separate us from His plans. God’s plans are already being carried out through our lives. As you are presently in this tough season of life, lean on God. Find support in Him and trust Him with your life. The plans He has for you will prevail and they will be glorious. “Dear Jesus, I am going through a tough season right now. There only seems to be suffering at every corner. Please Lord, help me to have hope for the plans You have for my life. Bring my heart and mind to meditate on Your plans for my life rather than the tragedies I am currently going through. I know nothing can usurp Your plans for my life. I praise You, Amen.” During this present season of suffering, what has the Lord been teaching you? God has many plans for your life. Does this bring you a sense of comfort? Why or why not? How does knowing that God has plans for your life change your outlook during this present season of life? Further Reading: 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Psalm 119:76 Romans 8:26-28 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at life

Do you ever panic when circumstances look bleak, thinking that maybe God has forgotten you? Perhaps it’s an unexpected bill you have to pay or a deadline that takes you by surprise. Maybe it’s just something you’ve been praying for and you feel overlooked. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: When You Feel Forgotten By Cindi McMenamin, Crosswalk Contributing Writer “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:14 (NIV) Do you ever panic when circumstances look bleak, thinking that maybe God has forgotten you? Perhaps it’s an unexpected bill you have to pay or a deadline that takes you by surprise. Maybe it’s just something you’ve been praying for and you feel overlooked. There are times I’ve started to feel forgotten. But looking back now, those are the times I’ve forgotten the God of Wonders and how He fights for those He loves. I was reading in Exodus of God’s deliverance of His people from Egypt. As the Israelites were backed up against the Red Sea with Pharaoh's army hotly pursuing them, it didn’t look good. God's people were afraid of annihilation by the Egyptians. Moses' instructions to them were simple: “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still” (Exodus 14:13-14). God then told Moses to raise his staff and divide the waters of the Red Sea so His people could cross through the middle of it. He also told Moses that the Egyptians would pursue them right through the middle of the sea, but God would "gain glory" through it. Moses didn't know exactly what that meant. He only knew that God expected him to take the next step, and trust Him in the face of threatening circumstances. All night, the Israelites walked through the parted sea while God, as a pillar of fire, went between them and the pursuing Egyptians, keeping the Israelites a safe distance away, yet still lighting the path before them. Then, when all of the Israelites made it safely to the other side, God sent the Egyptians into confusion and covered them with the giant walls of water, drowning every last one of them. The Israelites witnessed the spectacular hand of God delivering them from their enemies! Yet only three days later they came to a spring in the desert and grumbled against Moses (and God) because the water was bitter and they had nothing to drink. How quickly they had forgotten the God who rescued them. Couldn't the God who separated the waters also sweeten them? In spite of the Israelites’ grumbling, God sweetened the water for them to drink, and then He brought them to Elim – where Exodus 15:27 says “there were twelve springs and seventy palm trees, and they camped there near the water.” God gave them a Palm Springs luxury resort! Right there in the desert! Intersecting Faith and Life: How quickly you and I can forget God's amazing works too. How quickly we start to grumble, forgetting He is the God who always comes through. God has told us in his Word He will never leave us, nor will He ever forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). And in Isaiah 49:15, God said “Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you” (ESV). There is only one thing we are told that God ever forgets—and that is our sin. (Psalm 103:12 tells us “as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us” (NIV). God doesn’t forget us, only our sin when we’ve confessed it to Him and accepted His forgiveness of it once and for all. When you start to feel forgotten, remember that there is nothing that God forgets but your sin. And that means even when you’re messing up, He hasn’t forgotten or rejected you, He’s still working on what will bring you closer to His heart and back to where you need to be with Him. Lord, help me to remember today that You are with me, You are for me, and You have a reason for why I’m here. I will trust that You have not forgotten me, and that You are the God who always comes through. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen. Further Reading: Isaiah 49:15-16 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What wrong beliefs, assumptions or lies may be under your response? How might it benefit you to keep no record of wrongs? Perhaps, take a moment to pray that God would show you His heart for that person when the going gets tough. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: “Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.” – Proverbs 19:11 ESV I knew the person was baiting me into an argument. How was I supposed to stay calm, cool, and collected when they were attacking me like a bull in an arena? “You need help!” “You have problems.” “Everyone is upset at you!” Ahh!! With statements like these flying in my face, how could I not defend myself? How could I not get riled up? Arrows were flying a mile a minute. I didn’t know what to think or what to do in the midst of this verbal onslaught. I remained cool under pressure for a time, thinking of the various times that Jesus was attacked, yet said nothing…until the point that my mouth unloaded. I told the person everything they did wrong. So much for grace! Despite every impulse of the Holy Spirit within me, telling me to hold my own, I, too, reacted in anger, rather than responding in love. The second the words were out of my mouth; I knew I’d come to regret them. And I did. Later, I rehashed every word spoken. Proverbs 19:11 says, “Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.” How do we actually see this verse through when in the moment all we see is red? It’s not easy. But, I am rediscovering that one (almost) never fail way – is to take your time. Wisdom is not rushed. It is never pressured. It always patient and thoughtful. For me, this looks like not being baited by attacking words. While they may be coming at me like arrows in the night, I can respond by saying, “Thank you for sharing. I’d really like to take some time to process what you have to say. Can we come back together when we are both calm? Let me take two hours to think about this.” During that time, I can pray, read God’s Word, and think through what was brought up. I can consider how Jesus acted. I can understand where their condemnation may be coming from. I can position my heart to be humble and kind. Have you ever noticed how wise people are slow to speak? Wisdom doesn’t rush to conclusions and reactions. We never have to be pressured to respond. Love sets boundaries so it remains love (and doesn’t end up turning into wrath). Intersecting Faith & Life: What triggers you to react rashly? How might Jesus call you to respond differently? What wrong beliefs, assumptions or lies may be under your response? How might it benefit you to keep no record of wrongs? Perhaps, take a moment to pray that God would show you His heart for that person when the going gets tough. Kelly uplifts believers with boosts of faith; find encouragement by getting Kelly’s blog posts by email. Kelly, creator of the “Hear God’s Voice” podcast, is also a blogger, national speaker, and author of Take Every Thought Captive, Rest Now, Battle Ready, and Fear Fighting. Kelly, a real cheerleader of faith, loves seeing the power of prayer in live action. She loves seeing the look on people’s faces when they realize –God is faithful! Kelly’s work has been featured on The Today Show, CBN’s 700 Club, Relevant and Today’s Christian Woman. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The grace He extends to us will endure throughout all time and this is shown to us in how Gentiles are now part of the family of God. At one point only Israel was the family of God; however through Jesus’ grace all people can join the family of God. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9 From the moment we come to know Jesus, we are blessed. We are blessed because we now know the Savior of our souls, our Redeemer, and our greatest Friend. Although we are now just coming to know Him, He has loved us since before the beginning of time. When we were actively living in sin, He loved us (Romans 5:8). The love of Jesus is what enables us to live graceful lives. While we ourselves might be lacking in extending grace in our lives, we know we never have to worry about this with the Lord. He is always extending grace to us in His actions. Even though we do not deserve His love and grace, Jesus still chooses to do this. Love is at the Lord’s core and there is nothing we can do to change this (Romans 8:37-39). From a biblical sense, grace is undeserved favor or unmerited favor. We did nothing to warrant Jesus’ love or favor. Rather, He simply chose to love us and He continues to do so every day. The grace He extends to us will endure throughout all time and this is shown to us in how Gentiles are now part of the family of God. At one point only Israel was the family of God; however through Jesus’ grace all people can join the family of God. This is all because of God’s grace and His love. With this knowledge, we can live graceful lives. Rather than being fearful, doubtful, or even prideful, we can live lives of grace and love. God has given us grace, which is something we don't deserve. By all practical means, God could have eradicated the human race thousands of years ago because of our sin, but He didn't. Instead, He has chosen to give us chance after chance to come to Him. The love of God is abounding and this is why He has not destroyed us. God’s love is what leads Him to give us grace because it is not by anything that we did. We cannot earn God’s grace just as we cannot earn our own salvation. If one was to say we could earn God’s grace, it would be implying that we somehow could win God’s favor and this is not true. We already have God’s favor because of who He is, not because of anything we have done or haven't done. This is in line with our Bible passage of the day. The Apostle Paul tells us, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Similar to as I was saying before, grace and salvation were given to us by God. It is by God’s grace that we have been saved and this is through faith. As soon as we place faith in Jesus and accept Him as our Savior, we are given salvation. Grace overpowers our life and salvation becomes our new reality. As Paul goes on to tell us, this grace and salvation is not from ourselves. Rather, it is the gift of God. God’s grace and salvation are both gifts. We do not earn these things by our works in order that no one can boast. If God chose people based on their work, then it would give individuals a chance to boast about “how they earned salvation” or “earned God’s favor.” Neither of these things are biblical. Instead, they are rooted in pride. Salvation is a free gift given to us by the Lord Himself. We did not work towards this gift nor did we earn it. In the same way, grace was extended to us by Jesus out of His great love. When we look at these truths, we know we can step out into the day with a grateful heart. We have been given a graceful life and this is all because of the Lord. May we all praise Him today and go to Him in prayer. “Dear Jesus, I praise You for blessing me with a graceful life. Through Your love and grace, I have received salvation. None of this is due to my own work or efforts. Instead, it is done completely by You. Thank You, Lord, for Your wonderful gift of salvation and Your grace. Amen.” Intersecting Faith & Life: Are you currently living a graceful life? If not, how can you change this? We cannot warrant God’s favor. Have you tried to do this in the past? If you have, how can you give up this practice? Salvation is given freely by grace through faith. Have you accepted Jesus’ free gift of salvation yet? If not, do you think you might want to accept Him as your Savior today? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Listen as we embark on a journey of spiritual intimacy and discovery, leaning into God's whisper with expectant hearts, and embracing His direction and peace in every aspect of our lives. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” - Psalm 46:1 (ESV) There is a moment in the classic book The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis when two of the characters are faced with devastating circumstances. Lewis describes it by saying, “I hope no one who read this book has been quite as miserable as Susan and Lucy were that night; but if you have been - if you’ve been up all night and cried till you have no more tears left in you - you will know that there comes in the end a sort of quietness. You feel as if nothing was ever going to happen again.” When I read those words, I wept because I, too, had been like those characters. I’d suffered through nights of such intense sorrow that I’ve felt my heart would melt and my tears would drown me. In many cases, my tears ended up soaking my pillow to the point where I’d have to turn it over. Whether you are a Christian or not, we’ve all experienced some type of suffering. If you and I would sit down together, across the table maybe, with cups of tea or coffee, we would share about the suffering each of us have faced. Our presence together provides a sense of shared grief that helps us. Psalm 46 is a powerful psalm that speaks about suffering. What I love about this psalm is the answer to our suffering is God’s presence. The very first verse talks about God being near. It says that in all of our troubles, God is a “very present help.” (ESV) The word present means both time and space. God, who lives outside of time, entered into it in the beginning of Genesis. “In the beginning, God…” Our mighty, awesome, transcendent God entered into time for us. That word present also means space. God is also physically, spiritually, and emotionally close to us. He is near us physically! The Bible references God being near to us several times. (Psalm 145:18, Psalm 34:18, Philippians 4:5-7, James 4:8) When we find ourselves suffering, we want God to come in and fix it. I know I’ve prayed for diseases to be cured, grief to be comforted, and miracles to take place in the hearts of the people I love. God sometimes answers yes, but sometimes God has a different plan than my plan. The hard truth is this: life is filled with suffering. Instead of focusing on how God doesn’t answer our prayers or how life doesn’t turn out the way we had planned, God invites us to a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him. God draws closer to us in our suffering. He sits with us in our grief and sorrow. Depression has been my companion for almost fifteen years. In this suffering, I have found a deeper intimacy with God than ever before. God has not answered my prayer to be free from sorrow and depression. Instead, He has given me something that is so much better: His presence. In Psalm 46:7 we read, “The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” (EVS) My suffering has revealed the true character of God, and it has become the thing that brings me the most joy in my life. In this verse, the psalmist says that God is a “Lord of Hosts.” This means He is in charge of angel armies. This God, who is all-powerful, is “with us.” According to this verse. He is close. God is also described to be the “God of Jacob.” This is a personal God who knows all about us. This God, who is deeply personal, is “our fortress.” In this verse we see a personal God who is all-powerful. A powerful God who is incredibly personal. In God’s presence we find out who He really is. Over the years of suffering I’ve seen that we have a God who is both good and all sovereign. When suffering threatens our faith, causes us to doubt, may we run back to God and His presence. It is there we find truths to comfort out hearts. If you find yourself with sorrow and suffering too hard to bear, run to God. He is a present, safe, and powerful God who is ready to comfort you. Find Him in the pages of the Bible. Intersecting Faith & Life: When suffering threatens your faith in God, how does knowing God’s presence is always with you comfort your heart? Further Reading: Philippians 4:5-7 Psalm 139:7-10 Isaiah 55:6 Psalm 145:18 Psalm 34:18 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God is love against love. The devil has no standing intersecting faith in life. Are we loving? Do we believe the best about others? Or do we assume the worst? SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Listen as we embark on a journey of spiritual intimacy and discovery, leaning into God's whisper with expectant hearts, and embracing His direction and peace in every aspect of our lives. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It challenges us to examine our hearts and minds, striving to align our attitudes with the example set by Jesus Christ—a model of humility, love, and obedience that continues to inspire and empower believers worldwide. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Honor the wisdom, grace, and spiritual richness that accompany the journey of growing old in Christ, and discover the joy of embracing each moment as a cherished gift from our Heavenly Father. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Oh the richness of hope! Discover how it can transform our lives, uplift our spirits, and inspire us to live with confident expectation in God's unfailing goodness. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Examine your attitude towards government and politics through the lens of Scripture, striving to honor God in all aspects of life. Seeking to live out our calling as ambassadors of Christ in a world where God's sovereignty transcends all human authority. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Let us journey together towards a deeper understanding and experience of the rest that Jesus promises—a rest that refreshes, renews, and restores our weary hearts. In Jesus, we find not only forgiveness and salvation but also the rest our souls desperately need. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The timeless truth of God is his unshakeable character. Discover the peace and strength that come from anchoring our lives in Him, the Rock of our salvation. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The symbolism behind the "cord of three strands," which traditionally represents the strength of relationships. By embracing the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 4:12-15, we are inspired to cultivate stronger, more resilient connections that honor God and reflect His love in our lives. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join us as we reflect on how trusting in God during our suffering can ultimately lead to greater spiritual growth, strengthened faith, and a deeper understanding of His unfailing love. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Monuments are often built to commemorate great acts or significant milestones, standing as visible signs of remembrance and honor. They are meant to remind us of the past and to inspire us in the future. We become living monuments to God's greatness. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Welcome to The Crosswalk Devotional. We're glad to have you listening with us. Today's topic is how our lives can become monuments to God's redemptive work. We'll return with the devotional after a brief message from our sponsors. "Monuments To The Lord" written and read by Whitney Hopler. Evergreens will grow in place of thorn bushes first will grow in place of nettles. They will be a monument to the Lord a permanent reminder that will remain Amos 5:24 and E T. While walking through the Royal Botanical Garden, one of the world's largest gardens, I often stopped to stand in front of especially large trees that inspired me with all. The evergreen trees in particular filled my entire field of vision with green branches that spread out in all directions. Some of those evergreen trees were for trees, which also gave off refreshing sense, it was mesmerizing to experience the strength and beauty of those trees in the middle of a fallen world filled with challenges Amos 5:24 points as to hope this verse reminds us that God's power to make powerful positive changes happen in our lives. The imagery of evergreens ensures replacing thorn bushes and nettles symbolizes a renewal that goes beyond just surface changes. It describes a deep, enduring transformation that God promises to his people. evergreen trees which stay green all year round, represent life that endures through all season. They're constant and unchanging. Just like God's faithful love for us. Fur trees, which are known for their strength and ability to withstand harsh conditions remind us of the resilience and strength we gain when we root our faith in God and trust God's promises. The Bible describes these trees as a monument to the Lord, serving as a lasting testament to God's grace and transformative power. Just as physical monuments stand as reminders of significant events or people, our lives can become living monuments to God's work within us. monuments are often built to commemorate great acts or significant milestones, standing as visible signs of remembrance and honor. They are meant to remind us of the past and to inspire us in the future. We become living monuments to God's greatness. When God works in our lives transforming us from within. Our lives become renewed by God's power so they can serve as enduring testimonies of God's mercy and love. The transformation from thorn bushes to evergreens and from nettles to furs reflects those dramatic changes God brings to us thorn bushes and nettles, which cause pain and symbolizes difficulty, are replaced by evergreens and furs, which are strong and beautiful. When we allow God to replace the thorn bushes and nettles of our lives, our struggles, sins and pain with His Holiness, we become monuments of God's redemptive power. We add to the living monument of our lives every time we trust God, to help us overcome a challenge and experience God's peace. And every time we seek God's forgiveness and experience God's mercy and grace. This transformation is not just for our own benefit, it's also a powerful witness to others. People around us can see the changes God has made possible in our lives, and living monuments. We shine a powerful light in this dark world, inviting others to experience the wonder of God's work in their own lives. We become part of God's ongoing story of redemption, reflecting God's glory and drawing others to him. Our renewed lives become living monuments that point the people who know us toward God's powerful love. So let's invite God to replace the thorn bushes and nettles in our lives with evergreens and first, let's trust in God's ability to bring about lasting positive change. When we do, we become monuments to the Lord, living testimonies of God's redemptive work inspiring others to seek God and experience His love themselves. Intersecting faith in life as you consider how your life can become monument to God's redemptive work. reflect on these questions. What are the thorn bushes and nettles in your life that need God's transformative touch? How have you experienced God's renewal and transformation in the past? In what ways can your life serve as a monument to the Lord reflecting powerful positive change from God? How can you encourage others to seek God's transformative power in their lives? Further reading Isaiah 43:19 Second Corinthians 5:17, Ezekiel 3626, Romans 12:2 Revelation 21:5 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The importance of humility in asking for wisdom, knowing that God generously grants it to those who earnestly seek Him. Discover the profound impact of seeking God's wisdom in our lives. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Welcome to The Crosswalk Devotional. We are so glad to have you listening on Michela Zurich. Today's topic is asked for wisdom. We'll be back after a word from our sponsor Ask For Wisdom, written and read by Michelle Lazurek If you need wisdom, ask our generous God and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. James 1:5. I prepared for my leadership presentation, for instance, my material, practice it well and got ready for the meetings that would happen before the presentation to go over the transitions. However, when I hopped on the Zoom, call this lesson organized, I found myself confused as to what I was looking at where the information was stored for the presentation. It was clear from the beginning that I was not on the same page as the rest of the team. I left the meeting embarrassed and not wanting to return to any future meetings, for fear of further embarrassment or shame. However, I didn't know how to express this feeling of confusion or even where to begin to get help. I had a friend who had been on the leadership team for longer than I had. She was more technologically savvy than I was, who would know the ins and outs to that technology and how it all worked. The new apps being introduced etc. As well my pride, picked up my phone and sent off to my friend and embarrassing texted said I need help. I explained her the situation told her I didn't feel like I knew what I was doing and what she'd be willing to give me a brief orientation to get me up to speed. I didn't know how she would react, and feared her judgment since as part of the team, I needed to know the basics of the technology to present information to the audience. She greeted me with a quick response. Of course, she replied, happy to help. I didn't know what I was doing. The next day she went through it all with me. She made it look so easy. Instead of having to navigate it by myself, learning how things worked, and having new concepts and ideas thrown at me. My friend helped me navigate through situation of what you needed clarity and navigated it with these. We all need wisdom in life. No isolated world, it's easy for us to believe that asking for help, instead of moving through situation in isolation will cause embarrassment. Everyone needs someone to help them from time to time. There's no shame in asking God or others for help. Same way I needed help with the orientation and all the technology. I had to humble myself and ask for wisdom. God gives us wisdom when we need it. God is an all knowing God who wants to guide and direct us. His Holy Spirit lives within us for a reason. Holy Spirit knows things we do not know. He wants to speak to us and reveal all things to us. That is part of God's yearning to be intimate with us. Who must be humbled to hear what he has to say and to follow that wisdom and ask for help when needed. And is so grateful to have a friend who knew more about the technology than I did. Because of her wisdom and a willingness to share that wisdom with me. I arrived at the next meeting way more prepared, more organized, and most importantly, abundantly at peace. Is there an area in life in which you need wisdom. So someone in your life you can ask to help with that wisdom, pray and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you a person that can help you in this area. We're always better together. God does not want us to be alone. We can seek the help of other brothers and sisters in Christ who are more knowledgeable on a subject than us. And not only is our situation better because we ask for help. We're also better people because we humbled ourselves and asked for help in the first place. Father, help us ask for wisdom. Thank you that you are not a wrathful God withholding help. Thank you we can go to any time we need you. Thank you, you are a God who's willing to be our help in ever present trouble. Allow us to pass on the same wisdom to others. You give us human intersecting faith in life. In what areas of your life do you need to seek the wisdom of God or others? What is your biggest challenge in asking for this help? Further reading? Proverbs 3:5-6 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Whether you're facing decisions, challenges, or simply wrestling with the unknown, this episode invites you to embrace faith over doubt and find peace in trusting God's sovereignty and wisdom. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Welcome to The Crosswalk Devotional. We're glad to have you listening with us. Today's topic is about our tendency to second guess God, as if we know better than he does. We'll return with the devotional after a brief message from our sponsors. Are you second guessing God? written and read by Cindy McMenamin. "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9 Have you ever second guessed God by wondering if he really knew what he was doing? I remember when my husband applied for what seemed like the perfect job, at the perfect time with a perfect salary. But when my husband didn't get the job, we thought was so perfect in every way. I became discouraged and began to question God, I prayed. Why not? God, this was so perfect for us. We prayed about it, and we trusted you. Why did you not bless us with this? Yet God apparently knew what he was doing, even though we didn't. And now when we look back at what we thought was the perfect job at the perfect time, we can see that it wasn't perfect for him after all, and it wasn't the perfect time either. God knew what was coming and he had something better in mind. In Isaiah 55:5-8 God told his people that his thoughts were not like their thoughts. And neither were their ways like his. That's because he knows all things and we don't. But that passage also says his ways and thoughts are higher than ours, meaning better and encompassing eternal purposes. While we tend to look at just the temporary, in the next two verses, God told his people as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there without watering the earth and making it produce and sprout, and providing seed to the sower and bread to the eater. So Will his word be which goes out of his mouth, it will not return to Him empty, without accomplishing what He desires, and without succeeding in the purpose for which he sent it. That passage assures us that God not only knows what's best for us, but he has his eternal purposes at work, and what he allows, as well as what he presents. How often do you and I ask God, why now, it couldn't have come at a worse time? How often do we wonder why this? We were faithful? And we were hoping for the best? How many times do we say why me? As if I haven't been through enough already. We even sometimes offer God our list of reasons why we believe His timing, and his choice, are not in our best interest. And yet God continues to know what he's doing. We cannot second guess him. Sometimes he's protecting us from something we can't yet or might not ever see. Other times he is preparing something even better for us that we have yet to discover. And I believe at all times as long as we stay surrendered to Him. He is shaping our character and refining us through our circumstances, intersecting faith and life. God has reasons far above our own because He is God and we are not. And we are asked to simply trust that there is an occasion for everything and a time for every activity under heaven, Ecclesiastes 3:1 And that means he didn't get the timing wrong in the slightest. We're also asked to trust that his work is perfect. And all His ways are just Deuteronomy 32:4, and that he's a God who never makes mistakes. And were to simply trust that he's a God who does not slumber or sleep according to Psalm 121:3-4 meaning nothing takes him by surprise. Can you trust God today instead of second guessing him? Can you live with the assurance that he loves you beyond comprehension? And that nothing takes him by surprise, and he won't let anything touch you that hasn't first pass through his loving hands. Make that your goal today in every circumstance that comes your way. Lord, God help us to trust you with disappointments, missed opportunities, and even when it seems like our world is turning upside down. You are in control and because you are loving and good, you wouldn't have things any other way. For further reading. See Isaiah 55:10-13 And Matthew 7:11. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Uncover the richness of spiritual communion and the transformative power of encountering God in the depths of our souls. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Welcome to The Crosswalk Devotional. We're glad to have you listening with us. Today's topic is how God's deep love washes over us with power. We'll return with the devotional after a brief message from our sponsors. "Deep calls to deep" written and read by Whitney Hopler. "Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls. All your waves and breakers have swept over me." Psalm 42:7 NIV There's something deeply powerful about experiencing a waterfall. I hiked to several waterfalls recently in the waterfall capital of the world, the Hamilton Ontario Canada area where more than 100 waterfalls flow down the long Niagara Escarpment, on their way to the majestic Niagara Falls. Every single one of the waterfalls experienced overwhelmed me with the power and beauty of its fast moving water. As I watched the water flow, I thought of the powerful creator who designed our planet Sobell. Water flows abundantly through nature, just as God's love flows through our lives with overwhelming power. Near the end of my trip, I stood beside Niagara Falls, and let the incredible sound of its roar sweep over me. And then I thank God for that experience. The Bible uses the imagery of powerful moving water, waterfalls, waves and breakers. And Psalm 42:7 to describe the mighty power of God's presence with us. These overwhelming forces symbolizes God's overwhelmingly strong love that envelops us when we notice God's presence. The phrase Deep calls to deep at the beginning of this verse helps us visualize the deep connection between us and God. The depth of God's presence is so strong that it reaches the depth of our souls. Imagine standing beside a roaring waterfall. The site is mesmerizing. The sound is deafening. When you feel the incredible power of the water as it cascades down relentlessly. That's how God's love operates in our lives. It's a wild force that can't be tamed. God's loving presence sweeps over us with power, washing away our fears, our doubts and our sin. God's love is like living water. Just as water is vital for our physical health. God's love is essential for our spiritual health. God's living water is the constant refreshing presence of God, we need to survive and thrive. The pressures and demands of our lives can sometimes feel like relentless waves crashing over us, threatening to pull us under. during hard times. It's easy to feel helpless and alone, as if we're drowning in a sea of troubles. But the Libyan water of God's love is stronger than any challenges we face. God's living water cleanses and revives us. Imagine the refreshing sensation of cool water in a hot day, washing away dirt and sweat, leaving us feeling renewed and invigorated. That's what God's love does for our souls. God's love penetrates our defenses and reaches into the deepest parts of our being where our deepest fears and desires live. Because out to the depths within us that yearning for God, those hidden places where we carry our pain, our hopes and our dreams. God's love speaks to those depths, reassuring us that we aren't alone, and that we're deeply value. It gives us the strength to face our challenges, not by removing them, but by transforming us from within, giving us the strength we need to persevere. God's love is a constant powerful presence. Just like the steady flow of a mighty waterfall. It doesn't ebb and flow with the changing tides of our circumstances, but remains reliable and trustworthy.As we surrender to God's love, we aren't overcome by the weights. Instead, we're lifted above them by all as we experience God's wonder. That all helps us transcend our circumstances by directing our attention to God. We're cleansed of our burdens and fears and we're revived with purpose and peace. This deep love caused us to a deeper relationship with God, where we allow God's love to flow through every aspect of our lives. Whenever we enjoy waterfalls and waves and God's creation Let's remember that God's deep loving presence calls out to the depths of our souls, inviting us into powerful relationships with our Creator. Intersecting safe and life. As you consider how God's deep and powerful love washes over you, reflect on these questions. And what ways have you experienced God's love as a powerful, overwhelming force in your life? How does the imagery of waterfalls waves and breakers help you understand the depth and strength of God's love? What areas of your life feel dry or barren? And how can you invite God's living water to refresh those places? What new habit can you develop to help you allow more of God's love to flow through your life? What steps can you take to trust God's love more fully, especially in challenging s

Explore the profound ways the Holy Spirit guides us believers in their faith journey. Delve into 5 transformative aspects of how the Spirit leads us, SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Welcome to The Crosswalk Devotional. We're so glad to have you listening. I'm Lynette Kittle. And today's topic is five ways the Holy Spirit leads us. We'll be right back after a brief message from our sponsor. "Five ways the Holy Spirit Leads Us" written and read by Lynette Kittle. "He tells them and I will ask the Father, and He will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever." John 14:16. How do we hear from God? For many we aren't expecting or waiting to hear from him, because we don't believe he will, or even wants to communicate directly with us. But Jesus who walked this world and personally spoke to the masses, tells us repeatedly that he is not leaving us alone, but sending us a Helper, the Holy Spirit, who will continue to lead us like he did with those who walked with him on earth. Jesus explained in John 14:26, "but the advocate the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things, and will remind you of everything I have said to you." Following are five ways the Holy Spirit leads us. #1: God's Word. Foremost, the Holy Spirit talks to us through God's word, get it off and seems like it's the last place. Many Christians turn to hear his voice. Although the look for him to talk to them through a song or a passing billboard. Turning to his word seems like a last resort for them. Still, not only does the Holy Spirit speak through it, but he inspired it every word. 2 Timothy 3:16 explains how "all scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness" as well. The Holy Spirit actively speaks to us now. Through it Hebrews 4:12 describes, "for the Word of God is alive and active, sharper than any double edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing a soul and spirit, joints and marrow, it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." #2: His Voice, Hebrews 3:7 teaches that we can hear His voice, leading us saying "so as the Holy Spirit says, Today, if you hear His voice," for most, this is an inward hearing of the Holy Spirit's voice, speaking to our hearts, but nevertheless he is speaking to us, teaching us and reminding us of everything Jesus told us. In John 16:13-14, Jesus assures us that the Holy Spirit speaks to us. "But when he the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own, he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will glorify Me, because it is from me, that he will receive what he will make known to you." As Romans 8:16 assures "the Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children." #3: Through Prayer. Prayer is not just praying to God, but also about letting the Holy Spirit lead us in how to pray. Romans 8:26 explains how,"in the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for. but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us to wordless groans." as well. Ephesians 6:18 urges us "and pray in the Spirit on all occasions, with all kinds of prayers and request. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people." #4: Godly Counsel. The Holy Spirit leads us through Godly counsel, whether through trusted godly individuals we talked to who are led by Him, or by directly leading us. Psalm 16:7 describes how "I will praise the Lord who counsels me even at night, my hearts instructs me." Sometimes he speaks to us to other Christians. is an even at times through dreams while we're sleeping when he has our full and uninterrupted attention. #5 Nature. Many individuals have been led to God through observing and experiencing nature, seeing his handiwork in gaining understanding that there is a Creator who designed and formed at all. Romans 1:20 describes how, "For since the creation of the world, God's invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse." Still, it's confusing to many believers, how and which person of the Triune God is leading them? The answer is all three in one. They're all three distinct person's yet unified in speaking to us. On Earth Jesus spoke with the father was speaking to him, John 14:31. And the Holy Spirit comes from the Father, speaking to us what Jesus said in John 15:26 Jesus explains, "when the advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who goes out from the Father, He will testify about Me," intersecting faith and life. Ask God to help you see how the Holy Spirit is leading you to impress upon your heart when he is speaking to you, and to

Discover how Jesus transforms lives, reshaping thoughts and lifestyles. Explore the power of mercy and grace, a journey of encountering Jesus. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Welcome to The Crosswalk Devotional. We're glad to have you listening. Today's topic is a transformed life. We'll return with the devotional after a brief message from one of our sponsors. "A Transformed Life" written and read by Emma Danzey. First Timothy, 1:12-14 says, "I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because he considered me faithful, putting me into service even though I was previously a blasphemer, and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was more than abundant with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus." I think Christ Jesus, our Lord, who has strengthened me because he considered me faithful, putting me into service. We all have a testimony. We all have different paths that God has called us to. Jesus has strengthened us just like he strengthened Paul to write Timothy about what the Lord had done in his own life. What is it that Christ has strengthened you to do in the past? What is he strengthening you for right now? The Lord believed that Paul was faithful and put him to service, or reproving to be faithful to God. No one is perfect, but are we willing to be used by him and molded into His image each day? To live a transformed life means that we are submitted to the work of the Holy Spirit, through prayer and reading scripture. The Bible is living, active and powerful. It changes us when we read it, because we are receiving the word from God. Prayer changes us as we seek the Lord's will and bring her desires and concerns to him. He cares for us. Even though I was previously a blasphemer, and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. What were you before you came to Christ? Paul was a blasphemer, persecutor, and violent aggressor. These are not qualities I would initially jump at for someone to become an apostle in the church. However, this is what Jesus does. He takes those who were enslaved to sin and brings us into His kingdom purposes, changed by His Spirit in us. God receives glory for his transformative work. We receive new identities in Christ. Paul had a literal name change from Saul to Paul, Jesus changed his entire identity and brought him out of a life of hypocrisy. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was more than abundant with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus. And Jesus showed great mercy to Paul because he acted foolishly before he knew Jesus. Do we show others this kind of mercy? Do we remember that others around us are not awakened by the work of the Holy Spirit yet? Do we give grace for them to be on a journey to discovering Jesus too? Jesus remembered that saw later Paul was a sinner in need of Him, just like we need him and everyone else in the world needs him. His grace is described as abundant. We have more than enough in him. Perhaps you have recently become a follower of Jesus. Maybe you feel under qualified because of your past mistakes. Some of the most faithful and powerful use believers have come from some of the most horrific backgrounds of sin just like Paul, maybe you have worked very closely with Christ for a while and need a reminder of how sinful you truly are without the help of the Holy Spirit. Remember that he has washed you whiter than snow too. And be careful not to have a judgmental attitude towards the past sins of others. All have sinned and fall short of God's glory. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ. We've become free by Jesus's sacrifice and resurrection. All of our sins are forgiven, intersecting faith in life. How does thinking about Paul's transformed life remind you that anything is possible with God to transform your own life? And what ways has Jesus changed you from a sinful thought pattern or lifestyle? Who can you share his transformative work with this week and tell of His great love and forgiveness for them and their life? Further reading Psalm 25:6, Ephesians 2:4-5, Ephesians 2:8-9. The Crosswalk Devotional is a production of lifeaudio and Salem media. If you liked what you heard today, please take a second to rate and review this podcast in your favorite podcast app so that more listeners like you can find the show. For more faith filled inspirational podcasts, visit us at lifeaudio.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Reconciliation is key to healing relationships, rather than resorting to condemnation. God's love and grace provides a path to healing and restoration, challenging us to extend mercy and seek unity. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Welcome to the crosswalk devotional. We're glad to have you listening with us. Today's topic is on how to pursue reconciliation above condemnation. You are going to learn today practical tips and the reason why you should not walk in condemnation. We'll return with the devotional after a brief message from our sponsors. Pursue Reconciliation, Not Condemnation written in read by Kelly Balarie for you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. Matthew seven to discipling, a young student, I tried to make truth as plain as possible. I said, judgment is like a boomerang. When you launch it at someone you can expect it to hit them, and then to immediately return and hit you. Judgment always boomerangs back to the one who launched it. A wife speaks mean words to her husband. Before long the husband is saying mean words to her. A critic speaks loudly on social media condemning a church before long comments appear on his post accusing him. A judgmental comment is made about a lady at church. Next week after leaving church, the person that felt judged, now feels judged. Without realizing it, they figure people must be judging me the same way I am judging them. That's what people do after all. Now, the reality of the situation is that judgment might not even be happening towards this person, but it is expected. Why? Because we expect people to treat us the same way we treat them. We assume judgment is happening because we ourselves are judgmental. The feeling of judgment is just as bad as the reality of it. judgment and condemnation are boomerangs that only serve to hit us in the face, for you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged Matthew 7:2. Ouch. Indeed, this truth hurts, but confronting it is less painful than the standard of judgment, we will experience on earth and in heaven. For if Jesus uses the same standard that we have used to judge others, when we meet Him in heaven, there is wisdom in repenting of all the judgment we have inflicted on Earth. Where have you walked in judgment? Have you judged your spouse, your children, your boss yourself? Have you from a point of self righteousness, put other people down in your mind? I know I've done many of these things. Let's take a second and pray. Father, forgive us. We don't even realize sometimes what we're doing. Give us power to walk not with a heart of condemnation, but with a heart of reconciliation, by Your grace. Help us see the good in others. Before we point out the bad. Give us eyes to see hope rather than another person's demise. sound an alarm in us if we are ever to celebrate someone else's misfortune, in Jesus's name, Amen. Intersecting faith and life. My husband I have a saying that comes up when we are arguing. When a finger is pointed and accusing word start flying. We say to the finger pointer. If you spot it, you got it. What does that mean? If my husband says that to me? It means that if I spot a character issue with him, I probably have it in me. How can I know this? I wouldn't be able to recognize it in him. If I wasn't already familiar with it. In Me. We see what we know. It is called projection. What issue that you are quick to see and others may be something that God wants to address with you. How might his word address that issue? How can you change? How might your actions inspire the other person to change to? The crosswalk devotional is a production of life audio and Salem media. If you liked what you heard today, please take a second to rate and review this podcast in your favorite podcast app so that more listeners like you can find the show. For more faith filled inspirational podcasts, visit us at lifeaudio.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

"If anyone then knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it. It is a sin for them." (James 4:17) SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Welcome to the crosswalk devotional. We're so glad to have you listening. I'm Lynette Kittle. And today's topic is, is it a sin to say or do nothing concerning evil in the world? We'll be right back after a brief message from our sponsor"Is it a sin to say or do nothing concerning evil in the world?" written and read by Lynette Kittle. "If anyone then knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it. It is a sin for them." (James 4:17) When it comes to the sin of omission, what does it mean? Is it even really a sin? No one wants to really talk or even think about the times they've stood by in a situation and said or did nothing, as well. Many don't really consider it to be a problem, to choose to stand by, as something sinful. But is it? Isaiah 1:17 urges us to learn to do right seek justice, defend the oppressed, take up the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow. Still, how many believers in Jesus Christ are sitting in their offices, churches and homes, not agreeing with what is taking place around them? Yet not saying or doing anything to address it? But rather staying quiet, letting things progress from worse to worse? Psalm 1912 Ask, but who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults? Do some believers just not care? Or is it maybe Christians just don't want to deal with the messiness of getting involved? If so? Is God Okay? With us opposing it on the inside of ourselves secretly? But not saying or doing anything to address it? Does he understand we just don't want to stir the pot cause conflict? Or put anyone on the spot? If we don't say or do anything, but we pray? Does that count as doing something? Yes, it absolutely does count. James 5:16 reminds us that our prayers are powerful and effective. Still, along with praying at times, God calls us to get involved by saying or doing something following our biblical examples, where he called individuals to take action. Estar, a Jewish girl who really didn't want to get involved, needed encouragement from her uncle Mordecai to act. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place. But you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your oil position for such a time as this. Esther 4:14. Although reluctant to take action, when Esther did, God moved on her behalf in phenomenal ways, by removing a powerful person from position, replacing him with a godly person and saving an entire nation of people. Another example is Jesus. throughout the New Testament, we find Jesus constantly in prayer. Yet people often like to glide over his interaction with the money changers at the temple. But Scripture records his strong words and actions. Matthew 21:12-13 describes how Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling dos. It is written and he said to them, My house will be called a house of prayer, but you are making it a den of robbers. Still, how do we know if God is calling us to step out and take action in various situations? Proverbs 24:10-12 urges if you falter in a time of trouble, how small is your strength? rescue those being led away to death. Hold back those staggering towards slaughter. If you say but we knew nothing about that. This does not he who weighs the heart perceive it. Does not he who guards your life No it will he not repay everyone according to what they have done. Silence equals consent. The sin of omission historian and author William J. Feta writes, perhaps God is giving people a faith and opportunity to show what they really believe in their hearts through their words and actions. History is filled with accounts of people suffering, coercion, and persecution by godless, totalitarian governments. maligned smeared, cancelled and crushed in hopeless situations against insurmountable odds, writes Federer, but then stirred by the Spirit, little nobodies rise up small in their own eyes, but big in faith and courage, to speak truth to power, and to resist evil. When it comes to answering God's call in how, where and when to respond. Psalm 26 to urges us to ask God to test me Lord and try me, examine my heart and my mind. Likewise, Second Corinthians 13:5 encourages us to examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you? Unless of course you fail the test. Intersecting faith in life, ask God if he is calling you to say or do something to address the evil occurring around you. If so, ask him to lead and guide you in taking action. Further reading are you commit

Choosing forgiveness aligns with God's heart and unlocks healing and freedom, both for ourselves and others. Listen in and uncover the transformative power of forgiveness and why it's essential for every follower of Christ. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcription Below: Welcome to the crosswalk, devotional work Glad to have you listening with us. Today's topic is on why unforgiveness is absolutely not an option. We will return with the devotional after a brief message from our sponsors. Why unforgiveness is not an option written and read by Kelly Balarie. Then Peter came up and said to him, Lord, how often will my brother sin against me and I forgive him? As many as seven times. Jesus said to him, I do not say to you seven times, but 77 times! Matthew 18:21-22. I was furious at this person sitting on the couch, I knew there may as well have been a brick wall between us. I was angry, I felt unprotected and exposed. I didn't want to get hurt again. Fools do that. Sure. His words sounded apologetic, but could I trust them? He was saying one thing. But all my emotions wanted to believe another. Nodding, I pretended like everything was okay. At the same time, my mind circled back to a conversation I recently had with a friend. She explained how she didn't intend to send me a podcast to teach me a lesson, or to prove a point. She just wanted to know my opinion about it. I remember thinking, I have to trust her at her word. Otherwise, if I go by a feeling, I will not go about forgiving. I told her, friend, I know your heart. I immediately moved on from bitterness. What can I do the same thing with this man? Why couldn't I trust his heart? Why couldn't I take him at his word? I sat with that thought. After a time I came to the fact that Jesus doesn't tell me It's an option that I forgive. He doesn't tell me it might be a good idea that I forgive. Jesus tells me TO forgive. Then Peter came up and said to him, Lord, how often will my brother sinned against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times. Jesus said to him, I do not say to you seven times. But 77 times.. Matthew 18:21,- 22. Man will fail us 77 times. And God calls us to forgive them 77 times, even when by our natural, we have no good reason as to why we should forgive them. Never once did Jesus say, we have to understand every reason why. He just tells us to forgive. To Love the Lord is to obey his commands. To give someone forgiveness is to offer them a fresh start. Jesus is though way, so certainly his truth leads the way to abundant life. This doesn't mean we abandoned reason or wisdom as we forgive. Certainly boundaries, and wise words are always needed. At the same time, the calling to forgive still stands to. Who do you need to forgive today. How might God be preparing something new for you in that relationship? How might God be growing fruit in you? How might this growing of fruit in your life affect others? Friends, forgiveness is never merited hardly deserved, but it is always required. We forgive just as Jesus forgave us, intersecting faith and life. Then Peter came up and said to him, Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times. Jesus said to him, I do not say to you seven times But 77 times this indicates that man will hurt us many, many times. Not only will they hurt us, but they will verifiably sin against us. When we know that someone has not only hurt us, but they have blatantly sinned in our face, how will we handle it? Are we a person of grace or Venga? Do we continually blame and point fingers at the past or at the person? Or do we make way for an immediate and radical forgiveness? The crosswalk devotional is a production of life audio and Salem media. If you liked what you heard today, please take a second to rate and review this podcast in your favorite podcast app so that more listeners like you can find the show. For more faith filled inspirational podcasts, visit us at lifeaudio.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Whether in moments of joy or times of trial, learn how worship transforms hearts and draws us closer to the heart of God. Tune in as we explore the significance of singing to Him in spirit and truth, inviting His presence into our lives. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below: Welcome to the crosswalk devotional. We're glad to have you listening with us. Today's topic is why singing is a powerful way to celebrate God's wonderful work in your life. We'll return with the devotional after a brief message from our sponsors. Sing To Him written and read by Whitney Hepler. Sing to him, sing praise to Him. Tell of all his wonderful acts. First Chronicles 16:9 NIV.I sometimes sing my prayers to God, and I also love to sing pray songs at home or in my car. Singing helps me focus on using the unique voice God has given me to connect with him. It's also an enjoyable way to express myself. When I want to celebrate something wonderful God has done I naturally feel like singing.Lately I've been singing the simple yet beautiful praise song. I love you, Lord by Lori Klein, acapella and spontaneously, whenever I want to thank God for something. That song begins, I love you, Lord, and I lift my voice to worship You, oh my soul rejoice. Lifting my voice to worship God by singing makes me feel personally connected to God and inspires me to rejoice that God's wonderful work in my life.There is something uniquely powerful about singing.It transcends the spoken words we use in regular conversations and often take for granted. Singing taps into a deep spiritual part of us. And first Chronicles 16:9. The Bible encourages us to sing praise to God to tell him his wonderful acts. Music has a way of embedding itself into our memories and emotions. That makes singing a powerful way to celebrate the wonderful ways God is working in our lives. singing praise to God is a form of worship, that not only honors God, but also reminds us of His goodness in power. Each of us has a unique voice, a distinct way of expressing ourselves. When we sing, we engage this God given gift in a personal and profound way. Our voices become instruments of praise that resonate with our individual experiences and emotions. This uniqueness reflects our personal journeys with God. So singing helps us to discover and use our unique voices to connect with God more deeply.When we feel joyful, songs of praise can amplify our joy, turning our rejoicing into an offering to God. When we feel sad, singing can lift our spirits and help us find comfort in God's presence. The act of singing praises to God can transform our perspective by shifting our focus of our circumstances to God's greatness. Singing can be a powerful tool for self expression and connection with God because it involves our whole selves, body, mind and spirit. The physical act of singing engages our breath, creating a sense of presence and grounding and our bodies. The mental focus required to remember lyrics and melodies sharpens our minds. Spiritually singing opens us up to the Holy Spirit, making room for a stronger connection between our spirits and God's Spirit. We never need to worry about how good our voices sound musically when we're singing to God. God's focus isn't on our music, talents, or on our skills. It's on us authentically expressing ourselves to Him. God listens with the love when we sing to him from our heart. When we lift our voices in song to God with simple and genuine praise, we can notice God's presence with us and feel God's love for us. The songs we sing in worship are not just musical pieces. They're declarations of God's wonderful character and acts. So as you think of God's wonderful work in your life, sing praises to Him, not just as a ritual, but as a heartfelt expression of your love and gratitude. Let your voice tell the story of God's amazing grace and unfailing love. Your unique God given voice is invaluable gift. When you use it to sing God's praises you celebrate not only his wonderful acts, but also the individual way God has created you to connect with him.intersecting saith and life as you consider how singing can help you celebrate God's wonderful work in your life, reflect on these questions. Can you recall a time when a worship song helped you feel closer to God or gave you strength during a difficult time?What are some of God's wonderful acts in your life that you can celebrate through singing?How can you incorporate singing into your daily devotional time?How does using your unique voice by singing strengthen your personal connection with God? Further reading Ephesians 5:19, Colossians 3:16, Psalm 95:1, Psalm 10:2, Psalm 150:6. The crosswalk devotional is a production of life audio and Salem media. If you liked what you heard today, please take a second to rate and review this podcast in your favorite podcast a

Discover how God's timeless existence brings hope, comfort, and reassurance in every season. Explore the profound implications of God's immortality and how understanding this truth strengthens our faith and transforms our perspective on life's challenges. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcripts below: Welcome to the crosswalk devotional. We're glad to have you listening with us. Today's topic is about what to do when we experienced loss. Well, we tend with a devotional after a message from our sponsors. God never dies by Alexis Goring. God is the only one who never dies. He lives in light so bright that men cannot go near it. No one has ever seen God or you can see him. My honor and power belongs to God forever. Amen. 1 Timothy 6:16. At one point or another in our life on Earth, we will experience loss. A woman's pet dog of more than a decade dies and leaves her heartbroken because they were so close. A divorce, his pet cat, with her solace to the trauma of her shattered heart died, leaving her more broken than ever. A wife whose husband passes away, and she feels like the one has been knocked out of her cells, because he wast her everything. A young man dumped by his girlfriend who he dreamed of marrying, feels depressed now than his hope for that special relationship is over. A child who loses their best friend who they thought would be their friend forever cries out of loneliness. These are all real life case scenarios about losing someone or something you love with all your heart. Such grief leaves a hole in our souls, because we spent much of our lives be filled and comforted by what is no longer hours. The severed ties are devastating. And we may struggle with how to cope with such profound disappointments. But again is is that there was one relationship that we all can have that will last for all eternity, of friendship with Jesus Christ. It never fails because he and his Heavenly Father God will live forever. God never dies. The Bible says in Deuteronomy 31:8, the Lord himself will go before you. He will be with you. He will not leave you or forget you. Don't be afraid. Don't worry. We serve a great God who promises to never leave our side. And his promises are forever true. First Corinthians chapter one, verse nine. He loves humankind with all his heart, and He gave His Holy Spirit to comfort us when we are sad and grieving. I understand how it feels to experience loss. When I lost a friendship that I hoped would last forever. God helped me heal and realize that he is my forever friends. Were my wonderful compassionate and Christian faith filled grandparents died. God helped me remember that he'd ever dies. God will always care for me just like my maternal grandparents cared for our family members. When I lost a few jobs over the years that once brought a steady flow of good income. God showed me that he is Jehovah Jireh my provider. When I felt depressed, God showed me that he restores. He even sent me to our church whose theme song is God restores by dynamic praise. God gave healing and restoration to so many people through that churches ministry, and we have forever changed and closer to him because of it. There are since he wasted on life experiences may differ. We all have a God shaped hole in our soul that only God can fill. No person can complete us like he can. No amount of money and luxury can fill this hole. No drink or substance can permanently relieve the pain. Only God can. While you allow God to fill you up with his presence, while you ask him to give you a peace that passes all understanding Philippians 4:7. God is ready and willing to be everything you need him more. He is just a prayer away. You don't always need to kneel to pray be inside of a church or in the presence of pastors and Christian leaders. Because God is literally everywhere. He hears you no matter where you are in this world. May His faithfulness encouraged your heart and inspire you to go to him for the healing you need after suffering loss. Intersecting faith in life when you're experienced Seeing a loss. Who do you turn to? How does it feel to know that God understands everything you're going through and is ready to help you further reading Deuteronomy 30:3 Jeremiah 30:17, Jeremiah 17:14, Isaiah 40:31, Mark 11:24. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Explore how a single, transformative key can empower believers to overcome challenges and spiritual battles in their lives. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Full Transcript Below Welcome to The Crosswalk Devotional. We are glad to have you listening with us. Today's topic is about the one key that can effectively trampled Satan. My friends, you're gonna want to hear about this one key. We'll return with this devotional right after a brief message from our sponsors.This one key can trample Satan, written in read by Kelly Balarie The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. "The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you." Romans 16:20 Have you ever crushed in an ant under foot? I haven't done it lately, at least not intentionally. But as a kid, I was a pro at it. Maybe you were two. You could squash one of those buggers in a split second. Why? Because you were all three feet tall and the ant was minut and helpless squash. The thing was ruined before it even saw you coming. One day the God of all peace, the Lord Jesus will come and ultimately crush Satan. This will not be a light crushing it will be a damning and definitive crushing what it is all said and done. God is huge and Satan small God is absolute and Satan's attack only temporary. And what will God use to defeat satan? Peace. Just as God will use this weapon in the End Times, crushing Satan underfoot we have a clue in present times on how we can defeat satan. Peace. This is a powerful weapon to use. Lately, I've been using it a person close to me has been accusing and condemning me with their words continually is very hard not to act and to react in the same manner. Yet you cannot beat fear with fear nor can you extend grace to a condemning spirit with condemnation. All of this is a test of faith and trust in God for me. Many days I feel completely powerless and out of control. But when I remember the piece Jesus has left me. I can draw on that piece. It's there for me. I can choose to remember that an external circumstance has no power to take away the internal reality of peace that Jesus gave me. While the devil would love for me to respond in bitterness, anger, retaliation or fear, I don't have to bow down to his way. Instead, I can choose to keep my peace, to pause before speaking and to pray before opening my mouth. When I preserve my peace, I trampled the enemy's plan. Where's the devil stealing your peace? Where our external circumstances stealing Jesus's internal gift, a piece that crushes the enemy. Part of peace is forgiving ourselves for the ways we've walked and forgiving others for how they've wrongfully acted. Then we start with a blank slate. against peace the enemy has no offense. With peace, we have the greatest defense, intersecting faith and life. It is peace that guards our heart and mine in Christ Jesus. See Philippians four seven. We may not be prone to think of peace as a great defense, but it is. It not only guards our mind from worry and fear, but it keeps our heart from distress and defeat. What would it look like for you to walk in peace through your day? What tends to steal your peace? When can you begin to pray for the God of all peace to help you to keep your peace?The crosswalk devotional is a production of life audio and Salem media. If you liked what you heard today, please take a second Get to rate and review this podcast in your favorite podcast app so that more listeners like you can find the show. For more faith filled inspirational podcasts, visit us at life audio.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Through insightful reflections and biblical wisdom, uncover how embracing your God-given pace fosters deeper spiritual growth and fulfillment. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Explore how you can embody Christ-like compassion and grace to bring hope and healing to broken situations. Uncover practical steps to illuminate dark places with love, faith, and the unwavering light of God's truth. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A journey of inner transformation and liberation. Allow God to humble your heart so you can free your soul through His word. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Uncover the beauty and significance of recognizing God's loving guidance in every aspect of our journey and embracing God's direction in our lives. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Journey together in rediscovering the closeness and comfort found in God's enduring love, even in moments when we feel far from Him. SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.