The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

Whitney Hopler reminds us in Run Hard and Fast in Faith that each day is a gift from God, and we are called to live it with purpose, wonder, and faith. Drawing from 1 Timothy 6:11-12, this devotional encourages believers to seize the life God has called them to, embracing His love, pursuing righteousness, and living intentionally for eternal impact. Highlights Every day is a gift from God, filled with opportunities to live intentionally. Pursue a righteous life marked by wonder, faith, love, steadiness, and courtesy (1 Tim. 6:11-12). Recognizing God’s work in our lives strengthens faith and inspires action. Living with intention helps us focus on what has eternal value, despite daily distractions. Running hard in faith brings us closer to Jesus and aligns our lives with His purpose. Join the Conversation What does “running hard and fast in faith” look like in your daily life? How can you focus more on God’s work and presence today? Share your reflections, inspire others to live intentionally, and join the conversation with @LifeAudioNetwork using #RunInFaith #SeizeTheDay #FaithInAction. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Run Hard and Fast in FaithBy: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading:“Pursue a righteous life – a life of wonder, faith, love, steadiness, courtesy. Run hard and fast in the faith. Seize the eternal life, the life you were called to, the life you so fervently embraced in the presence of so many witnesses.” – 1 Timothy 6:11-12, The Message  These Bible verses were on the front page of a memorial service program for one of my father’s close friends. Aubrey (who went by the nickname “Smitty”) was known for living each day to the fullest. He found a lot to enjoy as he lived each day with an awareness of God’s presence. As a high school English teacher, Sunday School teacher, father, husband, and community volunteer, Smitty passed along his joy to lots of people during his earthly life. He was able to do so because he was intentional about pursuing a righteous life of running hard and fast in the faith, as the Bible encourages us all to do in 1 Timothy 6:11-12.  Every new day God gives us is a gift. The fact that the sun rises in the morning is only because God designed it to do so. Even the fact that we can take our next breath when we need it is because God gives it to us. Each day, and all the opportunities it brings us, are gifts from our loving and generous God. When we really think about it, we can see how every day is a miracle! God wants us to open the gift of each day and use it to the fullest, not drift through it casually without appreciating its value.  God calls us to do much more than live dull, routine lives. These Bible verses encourage us to live righteous lives where we pursue wonder, faith, love, steadiness, and courtesy. Each of these qualities is an important part of making the most of our time each day.  When we open our eyes to the wonder of God’s work around us, our faith can grow stronger because the more we see of God’s wonder, the more we’re inspired to seek closer relationships with him. Our stronger faith opens us up to receive more of God’s love and share it with others. Then, as we put God’s love into action, we can live with more steadiness and courtesy in all situations.  Living like this – running hard and fast in faith – we can experience the meaningful lives God wants us to enjoy. We can seize the life God has called us to and spend our valuable days focusing on what matters most.  On some days, we may get distracted as we deal with challenges that come up in our schedules. But if we go into each day with the intention to run hard and fast in faith through it, we’ll usually be able to take advantage of the best opportunities God gives us. We’ll be able to set our minds on what has eternal value, live into our God-given purpose, and enjoy the process!  Running hard in faith is worthwhile because Jesus is worth it. Every step we take in faith brings us closer to Jesus and closer to the life we were created for.  So, let’s open and enjoy the gift of each day God gives us. Let’s live each day like the miracle it truly is!  Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider how to run hard and fast in faith to live each day to the fullest, reflect on these questions: What would “running hard and fast in the faith” look like in your daily life? Where are you most tempted to chase after activities that don’t last, and how can you redirect your focus toward God?  How can you discover more of the wonder of God’s work in your daily life and become more aware of God’s presence with you?  In what ways can gratitude for what God is doing in your life change your perspective on the challenges you face right now?  Who can you encourage this week to keep running their own race of faith to the fullest?  Further Reading:John 10:10Hebrews 12:1-2Psalm 118:24Colossians 3:23-24Philippians 3:13-14 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Wondering about the power of God’s Word and your own calling? Megan J. Conner reflects on John 1:1-5, showing how God’s Word has been present since the beginning, creating life and shining light into the darkness. This devotional reminds us that we carry God’s light within us and are called to bear it in the world. Highlights God’s Word existed from the beginning and created all life (John 1:1-3). The light of God penetrates darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it (John 1:4-5). Believers carry God’s light within them, called to be ambassadors of His mission (Matt. 5:14). God’s Word guides, transforms, and shapes our lives, even fulfilling dreams He places in our hearts. Personal stories illustrate how God fulfills His promises in unexpected and meaningful ways. Join the Conversation What dreams or callings has God placed in your heart? How are you letting His light shine through your life today? Share your reflections and encourage others to trust God’s Word. Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #LightInTheDarkness #GodsWord #CalledToShine to join the conversation. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: In the Beginning…By Megan J. Conner Bible Reading:“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:1-5 (NIV) It was 2001, and I was working in a faith-based coffeeshop and bookstore (a revolutionary concept back then), when a man struck up what would be a life-altering conversation with me. He had traveled up from Los Angeles to my city and stumbled across our unique shop. He started chatting and shared with me that he had formed his own Christian theater company. As an actor, dancer, choreographer, and director within the performing arts arena myself, this was beyond inspiring.  Something in my spirit leaped inside of me, and I had this glimpse, this knowing, that one day I would walk in similar footsteps.  I daydreamed while he continued to talk, and I imagined a dark stage illuminated by a single light and this exact scripture from John chapter 1, echoing through the auditorium. To this day, nearly 25 years later, the impact of that scripture has never left me.  It has become deeply etched into my heart and has served as an anchor to my soul in both the good times and the bad. In the beginning was the Word. The Bible tells us that God is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. The One who was, and is, and always will be (Rev. 1:8). He was there before the foundations of the world, and through his WORD all life was created (Gen. 1). Isn’t that incredible? As someone who studies and practices the craft of writing and spends most of her days considering, sharing, and utilizing words, it is beyond humbling to recognize the weight of language and its power to form and transform.  Yet God did not just create the world with words; He gave us His Word to guide and direct us through life, to share His unfathomable love for us, and to direct us towards Him at all times. Truly, nothing has been made, nor will be made, without His expressed direction, acknowledgment, and permission.  He then goes on to establish that all of these works were made by and through Him, that in Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. That light pierces through the darkness of the world, of hearts, of lives, and the darkness cannot overcome it. God boldly declares that all life, every aspect of creation, from the smallest atom to the vast constellations, was made through Him.  And, in the midst of all life is the light of God, Himself.  That means that you and I carry the weight and the glory of the Lord within us.  Within the very fiber of our beings, we carry with us the light of the Lord. We are the light of the world (Matt. 5:14). What a weighty and holy calling! The infinite, universe-creating God has embedded into you His Word and His light. He came before us to make a way so that we could follow in His footsteps and continue on as ambassadors for His mission. You are His own. He created and chose you to bear His light to the world.  “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it,” John 1:5 (NIV). For those interested, nearly ten years after that initial dream of a stage production beginning with this treasured scripture, I did in fact write, direct, and produce a full-length work that shared the gospel through the story of Christmas. It opened with this very scripture, a dark stage, and a single light. Don’t give up on the dreams God places in your heart. You never know when He will bring them to fulfillment.  Intersecting Faith & Life: What has been your understanding of today’s scripture? How did today’s devotional shine a new light on the eternal power of this famous passage? Are there dreams you felt the Lord placed in your heart that remain unfulfilled? If so, ask the Lord if there are steps He is calling you to take to bring those dreams into fruition. Further Reading:John 1:1-18Matt 5:14-16 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Feeling powerless amid upheaval or uncertainty? Jennifer Slattery reflects on Daniel 1:6-9, showing how God remained with Daniel during exile and worked through him to influence a nation. This devotional reminds believers that even in times of political, social, or personal turmoil, God is sovereign, present, and always working for the good of His children. Highlights Daniel’s faithfulness in exile demonstrates God’s ability to protect, elevate, and use His people, even in foreign or difficult circumstances. God’s favor can work through unlikely individuals—including secular leaders—for His purposes. Biblical truth affirms God’s control over earthly powers (Proverbs 21:1). Darkness—whether personal, societal, or global—cannot overcome God’s light (John 1:5). Anticipating God’s work in our lives fosters hope and resilience, even amid chaos and hardship. Join the Conversation How have you seen God work in unexpected ways during challenging seasons? Share your reflections and encourage others to trust His sovereignty. Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #FaithInTheChaos #GodRemains #LightInTheDarkness to join the conversation. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: The God Who Remains with Those Who Feel Exiled By Jennifer Slattery Bible Reading: Among those who were chosen were some from Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. The chief official gave them new names: to Daniel, the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abednego. But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. Now God had caused the official to show favor and compassion to Daniel. - Daniel 1:6-9 Political change, company takeovers and buyouts, national or global unrest often leave us feeling unsettled and anxious, and understandably so. Those who lead our state and country wield significant power—but not even the most powerful earthly institutions and officials can thwart God’s plans for us or His kingdom. He remains on His heavenly throne, regardless of who sits in the Oval Office—or holds the position of CEO in the company for whom we work. He is our Father and King who loves to lavish His children with favor and grace, as He did with Daniel, the exiled Hebrew teenager selected to receive special training to enter the royal service.  The chief of staff also gave him a Babylonian name, as the IVP Bible Background Commentary states, to “exercise authority over them and their destiny,” adding that “since names often made statements about deity, Babylonian names would impose at least a subtle level of acknowledgement of the Babylonian gods on the young men.” This is, in part, why today’s passage holds such significance. According to Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Manners and Customs, “the faith of one man, Daniel, influenced and helped preserve the faith of a nation. He took his stand for God and was rewarded for his faith. He became, in effect, the prime minister (Dan. 2:48). And he continued in some sort of leadership role until the first year of Cyrus (Dan. 1:21) and even into his third year.”  His courage, position, and influence likely allowed the other exiles to practice their faith in a foreign land with decreased fear.   Intersecting Life & Faith: As I said at the beginning of today’s reflection, upheaval and change, nationally, and globally, economically, and in our workplaces, can leave us feeling vulnerable and defenseless, like our well-being rests in someone else’s hands. But God’s protection and elevation of Daniel, and all the Lord did through him during the exile, assures us this is never the case. God remains on His eternal throne, advancing His will, always and forevermore.  He never abandons His children. Because of Christ, who surrounds us and resides within us, we are never defenseless. We belong to, are held and carried by, and provided for by the Almighty. He sees us in our fear and pain, understands our most intense emotions, moves toward us in our need, and promises to bring good out of today’s chaos and hardship. Daniel’s story, and the favor and compassion he received from the Babylonian official, verify the truth in Proverbs 21:1, which reads, “In the LORD’s hand the king’s heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him.” God can, and often does, work through the most unlikely individuals, pagan leaders included, for the good of His people. Through the exile, perhaps the darkest season in ancient Israel’s history, we see His light breaking through, because, as John 1:5 states, His light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not, and cannot, overcome it.  His light has the power to break through our darkness as well. The darkness we might feel internally, when depression, sorrow, or grief weighs heavily on our souls. The darkness is attempting to destroy families battling dysfunction, estrangement, betrayal, or addiction. The darkness is creeping into our workplaces, cities, state, and nation through violence, injustice, corruption, and oppression.  Lastly, Daniel’s story encourages us to anticipate miracles and, when all hope seems lost, to fix our eyes on the God of hope who is always working on our behalf and loves to replace ashes with beauty.  Further Reading: Psalm 90:17 Isaiah 58:11 Psalm 5:12 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever looked back and felt the sting of a missed opportunity? In Missed Opportunities and Growth, Vivian Bricker reflects on Ephesians 5:15-17 and reminds us that while fear can cause us to step back from God-given opportunities, His grace still leads us to growth. Even when we stumble, God redeems our regrets and uses them to strengthen our walk with Him. Highlights Ephesians 5:15-17 calls us to live wisely and make the most of every opportunity. Fear often blocks us from stepping into new seasons of growth. Missed opportunities can lead to regret—but also reflection and transformation. God provides continual chances to grow in wisdom, courage, and faith. Learning from setbacks prepares us for future opportunities aligned with His will. Join the Conversation Have you missed an opportunity God placed in your path? How did He use that moment to help you grow? Share your story and encourage others to walk in wisdom and courage. Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #FaithAndOpportunities #GodRedeemsRegret #WalkInWisdom to join the conversation. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Missed Opportunities and Growth By Vivian Bricker Bible Reading: “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is” (Ephesians 5:15-17).  Typically, we only think of growth and change during the year's beginning or end. However, there can be opportunities for growth throughout the year. Most of these opportunities are given to us by the Lord. He is always giving us opportunities to try new things, meet new people, and grow in our walk with Him. As Christ followers, we need to make sure we are taking advantage of these opportunities and not wasting them. Most of us turn away from opportunities due to fear. Fear blocks our path and causes us to steer away from something new. I have seen this in my life, and you might have seen it in yours as well. Maybe God placed an opportunity for a new job, a new friend, or a new connection group at church. However, you walked away due to fear in your heart. Rather than using these opportunities to grow, we run away. This is entirely normal, but we must fight against it as much as possible. I have wasted many opportunities for growth in the Lord because I was afraid. Fear of rejection or not being good enough polluted my mind, so I turned these opportunities down. I feel a lot of regret over missing out on these opportunities, and one in particular sticks with me still. I was supposed to go on my second mission internship during my master’s degree, yet my opportunity was missed. My only choice was to give all my donated funds to someone else who was still trying to raise enough support or donate it to the mission board. I felt ashamed over the fact that so many people had donated to my mission fund, and they weren’t even going to get their funds back. It was embarrassing and challenging to say the least.  Even though I lost the chance to go on this mission trip, I learned from it and began working on myself because of it. Intersecting Faith & Life: The Apostle Paul tells us, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is” (Ephesians 5:15-17). As Paul says in this passage, we need to be careful in how we live and to be wise. We need to make the most of every opportunity because evil is so prevalent in the world. Rather than being foolish, we need to understand the Lord’s will and hold fast to it.  Think about what you are going through today. Maybe you are expressing grief over a past opportunity you missed. Bring these regrets over to the Lord; however, also apply the biblical teachings to be careful, wise, seize every opportunity, and understand the Lord’s will. In the future, Jesus will continue to give you many opportunities for growth and help you stand strong. While you might miss some, Jesus will still ensure you experience growth through it.  “Dear Lord, please give me opportunities for growth and the wisdom to accept them when I can. Please also help me to learn from missed opportunities, and still help me to grow. I want to make the most of every opportunity and to understand Your will. In Your Name, I pray, Amen.” Have you missed out on an opportunity? How did this make you feel? Even though you missed this opportunity, did it help you grow as a follower of Jesus?  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Grief and loss can feel like ashes, but God promises to bring beauty, strength, and hope out of our pain. In Become Like an Oak Tree, Whitney Hopler reflects on Isaiah 61:2-3, reminding us that God grows us into “oaks of righteousness”—deeply rooted in His love, resilient through life’s storms, and a living display of His splendor. Highlights God transforms mourning into joy and despair into praise (Isaiah 61:2-3). Oak trees symbolize strength, endurance, and deep-rooted faith. Trials and grief become the soil where God plants new hope. Spiritual roots—through prayer, worship, and trust—anchor us in storms. Our testimony of faith gives others shade, comfort, and encouragement. Join the Conversation Where have you seen God bring beauty out of your ashes? Share your story and encourage others to stay rooted in faith. Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #OaksOfRighteousness #BeautyFromAshes #FaithThatEndures to join the conversation. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Become Like An Oak TreeBy: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading:“… to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion – to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.” – Isaiah 61:2-3, NIV  Walking across the Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland one day, I was struck by how beautiful the place was. The ugly reality was that it was the site of the bloodiest battle of the Civil War, on September 17, 1862. Yet despite the fact that more than 22,000 men died there, the rolling hills and fields of bright green grass dotted with wildflowers made it look like I was just strolling through a gorgeous park. Beauty surrounded me everywhere. But the old trees – some of which were old enough to have witnessed the Civil War – were especially beautiful. Some of those old trees were oak trees, with branches stretching out wide and another year’s worth of new leaves growing from those strong and graceful branches.  In Isaiah 61:2-3, God promises his people that he will bring beauty out of their painful grief, and that they will become “oaks of righteousness” – strong and beautiful people who display the power of God’s work in their lives.  What kinds of grief are you going through in your life? Maybe you’re grieving the death of someone you loved. Maybe you’re carrying the weight of another important loss, like a job layoff, an illness, or a broken relationship. Life can feel like a battlefield, where hope can seem hard to find as you’re struggling with suffering. But God promises to comfort you. God will take the ashes of your pain and transform them into something beautiful. Where the pain of grief has touched your life, God will pour out the oil of joy. Where there was despair, God will clothe you in praise. God doesn’t forget your pain, just like God doesn’t forget the painful history that happened at Antietam. But God will seeds of hope in the soil of your suffering, and over time, he will grow them into something as strong as an oak tree. The process of becoming an “oak of righteousness” involves trusting God’s timing and staying persistent in prayer while you wait for God’s answers to arrive. Oak trees grow slowly. Their roots reach deep into the earth, anchoring them against harsh conditions like strong winds. Likewise, God wants to establish a deep faith in you so you won’t be uprooted when you face challenges. This growth won’t be easy. There will be seasons of drought when you feel spiritually dry, and storms that test your faith. But challenges like these are opportunities for you to learn to trust God more deeply. As you lean into your relationship with God, he will strengthen you, expand your spiritual roots, and prepare you for what he knows you’ll face in the future. Over time, you’ll find that the situations that once upset you no longer have the same power to do so. That’s because you’ll be grounded in a close relationship with God, who has unlimited strength. Just as oak trees give those around them the refuge of shade, your testimony of faith in action will give other people hope. The wonderful ways God has worked to transform you will show everyone who knows you a display of God’s splendor, just as the Bible says in Isaiah 61:2-3. No matter how much pain you suffered in the past, God will bring something beautiful out of it, while healing you and making you stronger in the process.  So, if you’re grieving right now, remember that God isn’t finished with your story yet. The ashes in your life won’t last forever. God will bring beauty out of your ashes and help you grow to become strong like an oak tree – deeply rooted in God’s righteousness and showing others the power of God’s work in your life. Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider how God will grow your faith when you go through grief, reflect on these questions: What specific “ashes” that you’re grieving right now would you like to ask God to transform into something beautiful?  Oak trees grow slowly and are anchored by deep roots. What spiritual practices (like prayer and meditation) help you deepen your roots in faith, especially when you feel spiritually dry or threatened by storms?  In what ways have you seen God bring new life out of a difficult past situation without ignoring the reality of the pain that was there?  How does the idea of becoming an “oak of righteousness” change your perspective on the challenges and waiting periods in your life? Do you see them more as opportunities for growth?  How can your story of God’s faithfulness give hope to someone else who’s grieving right now? Further ReadingJeremiah 17:7-8Matthew 5:4Romans 5:3-4Ephesians 3:17-19Psalm 34:18 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Conflict within the church can be painful and complicated. Michelle Lazurek’s Be True Peacemakers walks believers through biblical conflict resolution using Matthew 18:14-18. This devotional emphasizes private confrontation, mediation, and, when necessary, church discipline—all with the goal of restoration and reconciliation. Highlights Address conflicts directly and privately first Bring a trusted leader as a mediator if initial attempts fail Church discipline is for restoration, not revenge Avoid gossip, triangulation, and slander Seek integrity and humility in all steps to maintain unity in the body of Christ Join the Conversation Are you currently navigating conflict with a brother or sister in Christ? Reflect on steps you can take toward reconciliation today. Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #TruePeacemakers #Matthew18 #FaithfulConflictResolution to share your experience and encouragement. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Be True Peacemakers By: Michelle Lazurek Bible Reading: “If your brother or sister sins,  go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.” Matthew 18:14-18 In a previous church, concerns were raised about relationships within the church. When my husband sat down with the leaders, we quickly knew this was no ordinary meeting. As each person spoke, it was clear that rumors and gossip had been flying for quite a while. While there were grains of truth to some statements and outright lies in others, one thing was clear: No one had confronted my husband directly.  Once the rumors were cleared up, and the situation went back to normal, we couldn't help but reel from the fact that people choose to gossip and spread rumors and lies, disparaging my husband's reputation, with no thought or consideration to him at all. If they had come to him, he could have cleared the air, and we could have been spared much more time and energy working to dispel rumors and working toward the Kingdom. After that, it was clear there was a lack of trust from both sides. Matthew, in his gospel, outlines a straightforward way to lovingly confront someone, point out their sin, and work toward reconciliation and purity of the church. Although many people take the above verse as the model for conflict resolution, that's not the purpose for which it was written. It was written for people to point out someone's sin so that the purity of the church can be maintained.  The above verse explains that the first step in lovingly confronting someone always begins with a one-on-one private confrontation. This spares the offender from shame or public humiliation. Those things do not belong in a church body. If the person will not listen, then it instructs that a person should bring another person along. Ideally, an elder or a pastor should be the person in that situation.  The leader or the pastor should act as a mediator to resolve the conflict. The mediator mustn't have a bias toward the person offering the complaint. In some ways, it's a way to gang up on the offender. God sees the bigger picture and knows the full intention of each person's heart. No one person has all the truth. That's why it's essential to bring a mediator along to help diffuse the situation and extract the truth from it. If the situation remains unresolved, then church discipline can be instituted. This does not mean a person is allowed to bring a person up in front of the church when leaders disagree with their complaint. If their complaint is unfounded, it does not mean the person should take the next step to fulfill what is written in the above verses.   If you are embroiled in a conflict with someone and are unsure of how to proceed, the above verse provides an excellent guide for handling conflict effectively and biblically. Here are some ways to effectively deal with your conflict: Confront Them Privately Do not triangulate other people into your situation. That means the first step in Matthew 18 has not been followed. Go to that person in love and directly confront them with gentleness and respect. Name the offense using I statements. Let them know how you feel and how the situation has affected you. Listen to what the offender has to say. Sometimes there is an explanation or reason behind the situation. Consult Another Leader  If the person will not acknowledge anything regarding the incident, meet with an elder or a leader in your church. Make them aware of the situation and explain it in the same way you described it to the offender. Listen and solicit the advice of the elder or leader. If the elder or leader will not approach the situation or feels the problem is unwarranted, do not triangulate other people into this situation. This only breeds dissension and gossip.  If you want to maintain your integrity and credibility by truly seeking reconciliation with the person, you must listen to the advice of the leadership. If you disagree with the decision, it is best to let either the situation go or leave the church. Holding on to an offense simply because you want justice or disagree with the decision is not a reason to hold on to it.  If the leader is not willing to face the situation directly, but there is something warranted, consult a leader who is above the offender. If the offender is a pastor, consult with their district regarding their model for addressing conflict and resolving issues within the church. Consult the Church If a leader advises to bring it up in front of the church, then church discipline will be instituted. Do not use manipulative tactics such as gossip or slander to get your way. Triangulating other people who don't know both sides of the situation is not only unfair but also slanderous and libelous towards someone's reputation. The Bible warns us against these types of people.  Seek church discipline only in the case of reconciliation and restoration for the person to separate themselves from their sin and turn from their ways. Do not use it as an avenue to get justice or revenge. In this case, you are no better than the offender. Conflict can be complex and can lead to hurt feelings and soul wounds that only Jesus can heal. Do your best to work through your issues before confronting a person directly. Make sure you are right with the Lord before you go and talk to someone else about their unrighteousness. Father, let us be people who resolve conflict gently. Allow us to use the model outlined in Matthew 18 as a guide for conflict resolution. Help us to be people who seek the restoration and reconciliation of the body of Christ. Amen. Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you have conflict with another brother or sister in Christ? What steps can you take towards reconciliation? Further Reading: Galatians 6:1-5 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Feeling distant from God? Megan J. Conner reminds us in Hide and Seek that even when we hide from Him—whether through sin, fear, or heartache—He is patiently waiting to be found. Drawing on Deuteronomy 4:29, this devotional encourages believers to seek God with their whole heart and soul, trusting that He is always near. Highlights Hiding from God is natural, but His presence is never absent Childhood hide-and-seek illustrates how we often distance ourselves from the Lord God patiently waits for us to reach toward Him, even in dark or difficult seasons Scripture reassures us of God’s unwavering presence: Deut. 31:6; Matt. 28:20; Acts 17:27 Seeking God wholeheartedly leads to restoration and intimacy with Him Join the Conversation Are you hiding from God today, or seeking Him with your whole heart? Share your reflections and encourage others to trust in God’s presence. Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #SeekGod #FaithInTheWilderness #FoundInHim to join the conversation. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Hide and Seek By Megan J. Conner Bible Reading:“But from there you will seek the LORD your God, and you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul.” Deut. 4:29, (NKJV) Over the summer, my husband and I were blessed to host three special littles and their parents. They stayed with us for eleven days and thought Uma and Umpa’s house was THE best. Why? Because they said it was the perfect house to play hide and seek. And oh, did we play hide and seek! Round after round, we took turns hiding while the chosen seeker sought us out. Sometimes, the players concealed themselves so well, the game lasted quite a while.  One round, I was assigned the role of hiding and scrunched myself into a tiny corner of our basement laundry room, tucked underneath the ironing board. It was a pretty good hiding spot, if I do say so myself. Well, it ended up being so good that it took all three of the kids and my teenage daughter almost 30 minutes to finally discover me. Relief and a hint of frustration were on the faces of my seekers as they grabbed my hand and helped me exit my small, uncomfortable space.  “Uma!” they declared. “It was so hard to find you!” “Well, thank goodness you found me,” I replied. “I was getting lonely down here all by myself in the dark.” “We’ve got you now, Uma!” they laughed triumphantly as they rescued me with smothered hugs. What an interesting comparison between this innocent children’s game and our walk with the Lord. Perhaps you can recall moments when you have been in a similar circumstance. When heartache, disappointment, or the slippery slope of sin has drawn you intentionally or unintentionally away from God. Why is it that when we face challenges, we tend to distance ourselves from the Lord? Utilizing our own expert hiding spots, we curl ourselves inward and assume the darkness will provide a respite from the pain.  Then, before we know it, we long for the complete opposite. Where is our rescuer? Why can’t we find the Lord in the midst of all that is plaguing our hearts and minds? We remain secluded in isolation and assume God is intentionally remaining aloof and does not want to be found by us. But the truth is, He is there patiently waiting for you to reach out towards the light, to reach out to Him. The Word of God assures us, “the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you,” (Deut. 31:6, NIV), that He will be “with you always, even to the end of the age,” (Matt. 28:20, NLT). There are seasons where our Heavenly Father allows us to wander in the desert, but He has not left us there alone. “God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us.” Acts 17:27 (NIV) Whether you have been called to a wilderness season or simply have separated yourself from God, He is ready and waiting for you to turn your heart towards Him. He desires to be found. If your heart feels distant from the Lord today, ask yourself who is the one who is really hiding. If you are truly longing for connection with the Lord, all you need to do is “seek the LORD your God, and you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul,” Deut. 4:29, (NKJV).  Intersecting Faith & Life: Where is your heart today? Are you hiding from the Lord? Or perhaps you feel that He is hiding from you? How does today’s scripture remind you that God is present and available if you are willing to seek Him out?  The scripture from Deut. 4:29 says that the Lord can be found, but only when we seek Him with all of our hearts and all of our souls. “All” is a big word here… Take some time today to evaluate the position of your heart. Perhaps make a list of the things that you value most. Are you prioritizing your time, talents, and treasures for your own purposes first? No matter where you find yourself today, know that the Lord is patiently and graciously ready to pull you out of your hiding place and into His arms. Further Reading: John 17:20-26 Heb. 13:5-6  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When fear and weakness threaten to overwhelm us, God calls us to courageous obedience. Just as He told Gideon in Judges 6:13-14 to “go in the strength you have,” the Lord invites us to trust His power, not our own. Jennifer Slattery shares how God’s presence transforms impossible situations into testimonies of His strength and victory. Highlights Gideon’s story shows God calls ordinary, fearful people to extraordinary purposes “Go in the strength you have” reminds us our weakness is the stage for God’s strength Personal story of stepping into a difficult calling with limited resources God doesn’t expect perfection—He expects obedience and trust True victory comes from God fighting our battles for us Join the Conversation What’s one area where God is calling you to step out even though you feel weak? Share your reflections and encourage others to trust God’s strength. Tag @LifeAudio and use #CourageousObedience #FaithOverFear #StrengthInChrist to join the discussion. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Courageous Obedience When We Feel Weak and Afraid  By Jennifer Slattery Bible Reading: When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.” “Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our ancestors told us about when they said, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up out of Egypt?’ But now the Lord has abandoned us and given us into the hand of Midian.” The Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” Judges 6:13-14, NIV Have you ever sensed God asking you to do something you knew would be incredibly difficult, say yes, and find yourself in what felt like an impossible situation? One that took every ounce of strength you had, and you still felt like you were perpetually failing? That was precisely where I landed, years ago, when my husband and I opened our home to a teenager with a really rough background, and numerous behavioral challenges for which we weren’t prepared. As is often the case, this situation came in the middle of an already stressful season, and for the youth, this was an emergency. We were empty nesters at the time, I was leading an international ministry, completing my Christian ministry degree, working to meet numerous writing deadlines, and preparing for speaking engagements I’d accepted long before we answered God’s call to love on this deeply wounded, and incredibly angry teenager. To complicate matters, this was a busy time for my husband as well, as he was doing a lot of traveling for work—leaving me to parent this kid alone. Adding to the chaos was the fact that the teenager hated women and, frankly, was bigger and stronger than me. As you can imagine, I was more than overwhelmed and, sadly, often reacted to the teenager from my overwhelm rather than allowing God’s love and grace to flow through me. But, on those occasions when I paused my frantic efforts to manage it all in my wisdom and strength and sought God’s presence, I received instant peace, clarity regarding the situation, a Holy Spirit glimpse into the youth’s wounded and frightened heart, and the strength I desperately needed to overcome my fears, insecurities, and unhealthy tendencies. Reading Gideon’s story, recorded in Judges 6-9, reminded me of that difficult but enlightening season during which I needed to “go in the strength I had”—not so I could win the victory, but rather, so I could reveal Christ’s supernatural strength at work in me and through me.   You might recognize this biblical account. This occurred during a dark period in ancient Israel’s history during which they repeatedly rebelled against God, experienced oppression from other people groups, cried out to the Lord for rescue, received the divine help they so desperately sought, only to rebel against Him yet again.  When Scripture introduces us to Gideon, we find him hiding in a wine press, threshing wheat. His behavior makes sense, considering the circumstances. Judges 6 tells us that the Midianites oppressed ancient Israel for 7 years—destroying their crops and stealing their sheep, goats, cattle and donkeys. Meaning, their source of survival. Facing starvation, the people finally cry out to God. Like I said earlier, He responds by calling Gideon to fight on the nation’s behalf.  He began with these words, “Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!” He called the man hiding in a winepress a hero—because the Lord saw past Gideon’s current position to the victorious man of God he would become. Then He added, ‘The Lord is with you!” To which Gideon responds, in essence, “Really? Then why are we in this mess?” I find it intriguing that God never answers his question. Instead, He issues this directive:  “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” (Judges 6:14, NIV, emphasis mine). He said this during a time when Gideon appeared to possess zero strength and a whole lot of weakness. Yet, as the story continues, we see that this was the point. God wasn’t expecting Gideon to fight his oppressors in his wisdom and strength. He was simply telling him to engage. To obey and allow God’s supernatural strength to flow in him and through him.  Intersecting Life & Faith: The Lord Himself won the battle. He fights our battles as well. He sees our weakness and understands why we might be figuratively hiding in a winepress. He doesn’t get frustrated by our anxiety, fear or overwhelm, but neither does He leave us stuck. Instead, He invites us to step out in faith, to go in whatever strength we possess, trusting Him for the victory. Because we aren’t destined for defeated. As Romans 8:31 states, we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us.  Further Reading: Romans 8:31-39 Philippians 4:13 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God still performs miracles today—and He invites us to pray big, bold prayers. In Habakkuk 3:2, the prophet asks God to repeat His wondrous deeds in their own time. Whitney Hopler shares a powerful personal story of her mother’s healing and salvation, showing how God responds when we dare to pray for something awesome. Highlights Habakkuk 3:2 reminds us to pray with awe and boldness Story of miraculous healing that led to salvation Why we often settle for small, “safe” prayers God’s power is the same yesterday, today, and forever How to expect God’s awesome work daily Join the Conversation What’s one bold prayer you’re asking God to answer? Share your story and encourage others to pray expectantly. Tag @LifeAudio and use #PrayBoldly #FaithInAction #GodStillMoves to join the community conversation. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Pray for Something Awesome By: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading: “Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, Lord. Repeat them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy.” – Habakkuk 3:2, NIV  I’ll never forget the day my mother told me that she had seen an angel! After 23 years of praying for her to come to faith in God, I had grown frustrated wondering if God would ever answer my prayers. Mom eventually did come to believe in God, but she still struggled to believe that God would love her enough to save her. She still hadn’t started a relationship with God by the time she was diagnosed with leukemia and hospitalized – fighting both the blood cancer and pneumonia in her lungs. But one night, she saw an angel appear in heavenly form and send glowing bits of energy into her chest. The next day, tests revealed that the leukemia was in remission and the pneumonia was gone! But Mom’s physical healing wasn’t the biggest miracle. What was even more miraculous was that God had convinced Mom he loved her personally by sending her one of his heavenly messengers to minister to her. Mom was in awe of God’s deeds, and she finally placed her faith in him.  The wonderful way God helped Mom showed me that God is just as willing to do miracles today as he was in earlier times. Habakkuk 3:2 reminds us that, when we think about God’s famous miracles, we can ask God to do something awesome in our own lives right now. When we face big problems – like health struggles, broken relationships, or money worries – we pray small prayers too often. We might just ask God to help us get through the day as we deal with problems we don’t expect to be solved. But Habakkuk shows us that we can pray bigger prayers. We can look back at God’s mighty deeds and dare to believe he can do something awesome for us right now.  God is the same God now that he always has been. He’s the same God who performed all the wondrous miracles from the Bible, such as feeding thousands of people with just a few fish and loaves of bread, raising Lazarus from the dead, and opening prison doors for Paul and Silas. This same awesome God listens to your prayers today and does wonderful work in your life every day.  Even when we remind ourselves that God is still powerful and merciful, sometimes we hesitate to pray big and bold prayers because we’re afraid of being disappointed. What if God doesn’t answer the way we hope? But God can see what’s really best in any situation.  Praying like Habakkuk involves praying for God’s best and truly expecting that God will answer our prayers by doing something awesome.  What would happen if you began to pray for God to do something awesome in your own life? What if you prayed not just to survive, but to thrive? What if you looked beyond your circumstances to the God who is in control of them? God has unlimited power, and he uses that power for good in your life, because he’s good and he loves you!  Instead of dreading the stressful situations in your day, you can ask: “God, what awesome way will you work in my life today?” Then you can pay close attention, expecting that the wonder of God’s work will show up for you during every single day. Sometimes you’ll experience dramatic answers to prayer, and sometimes you’ll find quiet inspiration – but you’ll always find God’s deeds somehow when you look for them. That’s something to celebrate!  Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider how you can expect God to do something awesome when he answers your prayers, reflect on these questions: What past awe-inspiring answers to prayer can you remember and thank God for today?  In what areas of your life are you tempted to pray small, safe prayers instead of big, bold prayers?  How does Habakkuk’s prayer inspire you to see your current challenges differently?  How can you live with the daily expectation that God will do something awesome in your life?  How can you encourage other people to trust God for awe-inspiring answers to prayer in their lives? Further Reading: Ephesians 3:20 Jeremiah 32:27 Mark 11:24 Psalm 77:14 Isaiah 43:19 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God’s provision and faithfulness are unshakable, even in life’s hardest seasons. Isaiah 46:4 reminds us that the Lord carries us, sustains us, and rescues us from beginning to end. In this devotional, Michelle Lazurek shares her story of church planting, financial struggles, and moments of doubt—only to discover God’s sustaining hand through every sacrifice, setback, and unexpected blessing. Highlights Isaiah 46:4: God promises to sustain us through every stage of life How financial struggles and sacrifice can test our faith Stories of unexpected provision through God’s people Why gratitude and reflection reveal God’s faithfulness in hindsight A reminder that God never forgets us and always has a plan Join the Conversation How has God sustained you during a season when you felt abandoned or overwhelmed? Share your story with the LifeAudio community and encourage others to trust God’s provision. Tag @LifeAudio and use #FaithfulGod #ChristianLiving #GodProvides to join the conversation. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: God Sustains Us By: Michelle Lazurek Bible Reading: “Even to your old age and gray hairs, I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” Isaiah. 46:4 Many years ago, my husband and I planted a church. We planted it from a mother church where he originally pastored as an associate pastor. It became challenging to find people to be sent out to join us in our endeavor. We recruited 12 people from various backgrounds and areas of our lives, as well as a few from the church we were currently attending. From day one, it was a challenging experience.  We moved several times, had to take several pay cuts, and experienced frequent turnover among our congregation members. Many people who came to us had previously experienced hurt in a church and were seeking a new kind of church. However, that emotional baggage that they brought with them, they dropped right at the church's doorstep. Because of all the financial, emotional, and mental issues involved in it, it was tough for us to deal with all the issues surrounding it.  After the first pay cut, there were times when we couldn't always pay our bills. There were moments when my husband didn't eat dinner that night because there wasn't enough food.  In those moments, it felt as if God had abandoned us. We were making all these sacrifices; why did we have to make those sacrifices when everyone else got to live their lives how they wanted? The church plant had a profound impact on my spiritual life. I became angry at God for the things I thought I was entitled to or deserved.  God had called me to sacrifice, but it was clear he wasn't calling anyone else to make those same sacrifices. Because of this, I grew resentful. It deeply affected my spiritual life. I stopped praying and was going through the motions of the faith.  As I look back now, I understand more completely the distinction between the two. As I reflect in the mirror now, donning many gray hairs, I know that even through the challenging stages, God has been with us. Looking back, I remember so many times when God provided for us. He had friends bring us food when there wasn't enough to eat. He had people give generous donations to us to help us make ends meet.  Although I don't want to go through that difficult time again, I can see all the ways that God provided for us and sustained us during that difficult time. One time, we didn't have enough money to pay for a home repair. A couple from our congregation heard of our plight and surprised us with a check for the exact amount to get our roof fixed. We were elated! We were forever grateful to that couple for sacrificing and giving of themselves so that we could live another day in our home.  It is not always easy during trials to see where God is at work. However, when we successfully resolve our emotions associated with trials and look back soberly at the situation, there are always moments where we can see God at work. Being able to reflect on what God is doing amid a difficult time in our lives helps strengthen my faith. It shifts my mindset and allows me to look upon God in his character, who never forgets, always sees, always provides, always sustains. Look at your life. In what ways has God sustained you through difficult times, in areas where God performed a mini miracle, providing for you in a way that you never thought possible? Did God use people in your life to speak a word of encouragement, remind you of God's word, or provide for you in a way you never expected? In all those ways, God is to be praised because he is at work in our lives, even when we don't see it. As we reflect in our old age, we are reminded that God never forgets about us. He always has a perfect plan for our lives, until the day we return home. Father, let us be people who remember your sovereignty, provision, and goodness. Remind us of all the ways you sustain us and provide for us, even in challenging circumstances. Allow us to wake up each day grateful for your presence in our lives, knowing that you have a perfect plan for us. Amen. Intersecting Faith & Life: Analyze your life. In what ways has God sustained you through difficult circumstances? Further Reading: Philippians 4:19 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A cheerful heart is more than a good mood—it’s God’s prescription for hope and healing. Proverbs 17:22 reminds us that joy can strengthen our spirit, while negativity can crush us from within. This devotional explores the power of perspective, gratitude, and God’s wisdom to transform how we walk through trials. Highlights Discover why Proverbs calls joy “good medicine” for the soul How your outlook impacts mental, spiritual, and physical health The danger of letting negativity spiral into despair Practical ways to cultivate gratitude and a cheerful heart in hard times Encouragement that God can shift your heart from hopeless to hopeful Join the Conversation What helps you keep a cheerful heart when life feels heavy? Share your thoughts with us on Instagram and Facebook @LifeAudio, and encourage someone else who may need this reminder today. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review to help others find biblical encouragement. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: The Best Medicine By Megan J. Conner Bible Reading: “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Prov. 17:22 (NIV) Proverbs is one of the most interesting books in the Bible. Often referenced for “one-off” quotes like this, but, in some cases, ignored as a work of wisdom in its entirety. It seems as if most of us aren’t really sure what to do with the Book of Proverbs, so we simply skim over the content or only digest it in small doses of daily scripture reading.  I have had the true privilege of editing and consulting for a beautiful Christian author who is incredibly passionate about the works of Solomon, specifically Ecclesiastes and his contributions to the Book of Proverbs. Her work and message have transformed my entire perspective on the value of this ancient wisdom, especially in light of the eternal nuggets of truth that it offers us. Today’s scripture is one of these prized nuggets.  “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Prov. 17:22 (NIV) The first part of this quotable quip could be a cute bookmark or slogan on a coffee cup. Perhaps you have run across one at a bookstore or boutique. However, the latter part of the passage hits hard. The contrast of these two paradigms is so stark that it is actually startling. They are extremes at opposite ends, but I sense that is exactly what the author was aiming for.  Why? Because that is how strongly the position of our hearts can influence our overall mental, spiritual, and even physical states.  When you face challenges, disappointments, or hardships of any kind, it is very easy to become overwhelmed by negativity. Especially if the struggles you are facing are serious or life-altering. There is a strong pull beckoning you to crawl back under the covers and hide away from it all. Anxious and depressing thoughts start to convince you that all is lost, things will never change, or the pain will never go away. If you are not careful, you can be drawn into a dark, downward spiral that will begin, a little at a time, to fully crush your spirit and dry up your bones. How do I know this? Because I have lived it. Not once or twice, but repeatedly throughout my own twenty-year journey through trials. It has taken me years, literally years, to learn the power of a cheerful disposition in the midst of heartache. On this side of my shift in perspective, I can assure you the truth of this proverb is valid.   Does this mean I am suggesting we placate and pretend that all is well when it is not? No, not at all. I am a firm believer in recognizing and validating the reality of our emotions. But that does not mean there is no way to control them.  Feelings help us recognize there is something that needs our attention.  And we need that.  Sometimes, we don’t comprehend how much an experience or circumstance has impacted us until those emotions start rising up and drawing attention to it. However, while they are helpful tools, they do not have to dictate our overall outlook. No matter what is going on in your life right now, EVERTHING is not bad. Good still remains; you just have to look up and out to discover it. You also have to be intentional about your search for the existing blessings. They really are there, but it is the disposition of your heart, a desire to even discover these treasures, that compels you to be cheerful. And while this practice may not alter your circumstances at the moment, it will drastically transform how you are walking through your disappointments or struggles.  Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you believe it is possible for your outlook to be different when faced with difficulties? Even if you aren’t sure you believe your dark thoughts and deep disappointments can be changed, sometimes we have to choose to begin and trust that God will prove Himself faithful along the way. If we wait until we think we are ready, or we finally have enough “faith,” we will remain stuck indefinitely. Decide today to choose a cheerful disposition. This does not mean you force yourself to “be happy,” but it is a conscious decision to recognize and celebrate at least one small blessing each and every day. Many call this the practice of gratitude. During one of my darkest seasons, I employed this practice every day for an entire year, and the alteration was truly effective. Did it happen overnight? Absolutely not. As a matter of fact, it took a while for me to even consciously recognize the change. But the change did occur, and my heart moved from disgruntled to grateful, from disillusioned to hopeful, and from negative to cheerful.  What God is faithful to do for one, He will do for another. May you also discover that a cheerful heart is the best medicine for whatever you are facing today. Further Reading: Proverbs 15:13 Psalm 51:12 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God’s love is relentless, personal, and healing—even when we run, rebel, or reject Him. In Hosea 2:14–16, we see a God who pursues His people with grace, redemption, and restoration, offering hope when we least deserve it. Just like Israel’s story of betrayal and reconciliation, we are pursued in love by a Savior who refuses to let us go. Highlights Discover the depth of God’s faithful love in Hosea 2:14–16 Why God compared His relationship with Israel to a broken marriage The powerful picture of grace in the face of betrayal and rejection How God turns judgment into restoration and hope What it means to be pursued by God in your own faith journey Join the Conversation How has God pursued you in moments of failure or rebellion? Share your story with us on Instagram and Facebook @LifeAudio and connect with others walking this journey of grace. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help more people discover encouragement from God’s Word. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: You Are Pursued in Love By Jennifer Slattery Bible Reading: “Therefore I am now going to allure her;    I will lead her into the wilderness    and speak tenderly to her.15 There I will give her back her vineyards,    and will make the Valley of Achor[b] a door of hope.There she will respond[c] as in the days of her youth,    as in the day she came up out of Egypt. 16 “In that day,” declares the Lord,    “you will call me ‘my husband’;    you will no longer call me ‘my master.’ Hosea 2:14-16, NIV We’ve all experienced the pain of shattered relationships, of betrayal and rejection. Sometimes, these experiences shock us and leave us battling indignation. Other times, we expected the relationship to fracture and the other person to withdraw—because of how we behaved. But oh, what healing when we encounter someone who sees us at worst and chooses to not only stay, but reaches for us, bridging the canyon our hurtful actions created and meets our ugliest deeds with grace. The Lord’s ever-present, never-ending, oh-go-gracious love has, and is, bringing healing to the wounded places in my soul and is helping to shatter the shame from some of my, relationship-harming behaviors—including those things that I know grieved the Lord’s heart and abused His grace. A grace He lavishes, in abundance, upon each of us. He pursues us when we regularly read our Bibles, pray, give and serve. He also pursues us—in love—when we choose His gifts over His presence, turn our backs on Him, and rebel. As we see again and again and again in His response to ancient Israel. For thousands of years, they treated His faithful kindness with contempt, disdained His life-giving commands, and only pursued Him when they landed in an insurmountable crisis.   Hosea, the Old Testament prophet who wrote the book from which today’s passage comes, stepped into ministry during a challenging season in ancient Israel’s history. Delivering God’s message when his contemporaries Micah and Isaiah did the same, he conveyed similar warnings of judgment and promises of restoration and reconciliation with the Lord, but in a unique and powerful way. God told him to marry a “harlot”, which some commentators believe meant she worked as a prostitute, while others suggest the name points to a promiscuous lifestyle. The shocking and scandalous marriage revealed the depth of relationship God desired with His people and the intense grief He experienced from their betrayal.  The text invites the reader to pause and consider their most intimate human relationship, and how they’d feel with an unfaithful spouse. If you’ve ever experienced this type of rupture, you know the intense pain this causes. Infidelity shatters trust and any sense of emotional safety once held, often leading to divorce or a long, arduous road of repair.  God wanted His people to understand the damage they’d caused when they not only enjoyed all the blessings He provided—rain and sunshine for their crops, wheat and grapes for their bellies, and warm homes to sleep in each night—while attributing them to idols.  Having read Judges, 1 and 2 Chronicles, and 1 and 2 Kings in chronological order, page by page, I was stunned and touched by the Lord’s continual grace. Generation after generation, His people rejected Him and His love and behaved in horrific ways. They oppressed the weak, committed violent acts against one another, engaged in temple prostitution and even child sacrifice. Those sins alone demand quick justice. But what made them even more atrocious was the fact that the ancient Israelites were the only people, on the planet, whom the Lord chose to live out His mission and reveal Him, His heart and His ways to the watching world. This would be like your church sending missionaries to another country, paying for all their living expenses, only to find out they’d used their home to throw wild parties and their salaries for drugs and alcohol.  One wouldn’t expect someone engaging in such a manner to keep their position, let alone receive a second, or third, fourth, or twenty-first opportunity to try again.  Yet, that is precisely what God offered His people. Yes, judgment would come, but like I said, so would redemption, restoration and, most importantly, reconciliation with their heavenly Father and faithful husband.  Pause to read today’s passage again, reflecting on what it reveals regarding our Savior’s heart: “Therefore I am now going to allure her;    I will lead her into the wilderness    and speak tenderly to her.15 There I will give her back her vineyards,    and will make the Valley of Achor[b] a door of hope.There she will respond[c] as in the days of her youth,    as in the day she came up out of Egypt. 16 “In that day,” declares the Lord,    “you will call me ‘my husband’;    you will no longer call me ‘my master.’ In mentioning the wilderness, the Lord was reminding them of how He’d freed them from slavery and oppression in Egypt—through a series of unforgettable miracles that became cemented in the nation’s history. Then, after liberating his helpless and oppressed children, He led them personally, faithfully, and tangibly, making His presence known in a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. And while in the wilderness, He met their every need. He wasn’t just ensuring their survival. He was also teaching them to trust in and rely on Him. Intersecting Life & Faith: That was the depth of relationship He’d always wanted. That was the type of relationship our Father grieved and longed to restore. Most importantly, that’s the depth of relationship He wants with us—one built on trust, dependence, and the emotional intimacy enjoyed in the healthiest and holiest marriages.   Reflecting upon this, and the Lord’s unchanging character revealed throughout history, encourages me to turn to Him when I mess up, to rest in Him when I’m overburdened, to trust in Him when I’m afraid, and to celebrate His presence in difficult and joyous seasons.  Further Reading: Luke 19:10 Matthew 23:37 Psalm 23:6 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Worry doesn’t have to dominate your life. In Turn Your Worries into Prayers, Whitney Hopler reflects on Psalm 34:4 and shares how prayer can transform fear into peace and courage. Listeners will learn practical steps for turning anxious thoughts into prayers, experiencing God’s strength in challenging situations, and trusting Him to guide their hearts even when circumstances don’t change. This episode is perfect for anyone seeking freedom from fear, deeper trust in God, and practical ways to make prayer a daily habit. ✨ Highlights Psalm 34:4: prayer frees us from fear Turning worry into prayer shifts attention from the problem to God God may not always change circumstances, but He strengthens and changes us Practical tips for praying immediately when fear arises Learning to walk with courage and peace through life’s challenges Reflection: identifying specific fears and giving them to God 💬 Join the Conversation What worries have been weighing on you lately? How can you turn them into prayers today? Share your experiences with the LifeAudio community! Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #FaithOverFear #PrayerPower #TrustGod #CourageThroughChrist to encourage others to find peace in God’s presence. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Turn Your Worries into Prayers By: Whitney Hopler “I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears.” – Psalm 34:4, NLT  I struggled with many fears while growing up. After my parents’ divorce, remarriages, and moves, I rarely felt secure. Every day brought more stress that led me to worry a lot. As a young adult, I still struggled with the bad habit of worry, even though by then I had a relationship with Jesus. It wasn’t until I finally decided to pray – every single time I noticed that I felt afraid of something – that I finally broke free of my fears. By turning my worries into prayers, I welcomed God into my struggles. I didn’t just ruminate on my anxious thoughts; I did something useful with them by giving them to God to handle. That made all the difference! Soon, I learned that God is always willing to fight anxiety for me. Now, I still feel afraid sometimes in this fallen world, like everyone does. But I don’t get stuck in fear. I pray whenever a worry enters my mind – and God frees me from my fears by giving me the peace and courage I need, even in scary situations.  What fears are you struggling with in your own life? You were never meant to carry those burdens alone. Psalm 34:4 describes a life-changing truth: prayer is the action that turns your fears over to God.  Prayer moves your attention away from the source of your fear and toward the source of your strength: God. When you pray, you stop letting fearful thoughts run wild in your mind and get rid of them by asking God to handle them. A quick prayer that you say as soon as you catch yourself worrying will work. God already knows your thoughts, and he already knows how to help you, as well.  Sometimes, God might change the challenging circumstances that are causing your fears. But more often, God won’t change your circumstances. Instead, he will change you. God will give you the courage to walk right through your challenges without worrying about them.  The freedom God gives is a strong sense of peace that settles over you even when challenges are going on around you. You’ll know that you’re not alone and that God’s strength is more than enough for you to handle any challenge that comes into your life. You’ll still feel afraid sometimes. But you can overcome your fears, because of the confidence God gives you that he’ll help you do so.  So, the very next time you notice a fearful thought in your mind that’s tempting you to worry, let that be your signal to pray. Don’t let the thought spiral. Instead, immediately say a prayer about it to God. You can say a brief prayer, either out loud or silently. It could be as simple as: “Lord, help me,” or: “God, I give you this fear. Please give me your peace.” You can even pray something similar to the words of Psalm 34:4 itself: “Lord, I’m praying to you. Please answer me and free me from this fear.”  By doing this, you can turn every single one of your worries into prayers. You’ll be amazed at how God will answer your prayers by strengthening you to move forward with courage!  Intersecting Faith and Life As you consider how God will free you from your fears when you turn your worries into prayers, reflect on these questions:  What’s one specific fear that has been on your mind lately? Pray about it, asking God to free you from it.  Can you recall a time in your life when you prayed about something that was worrying you, and God helped you overcome that challenge?  How does the idea of being freed from fear by receiving peace and courage – rather than by the problem disappearing – change how you might pray in challenging situations?  This week, how can you make prayer your first response to the worries that enter your mind?  Further Reading 2 Timothy 1:7 Isaiah 41:10 Joshua 1:9 Philippians 4:6-7 1 Peter 5:7 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Tragedies can be sudden, shocking, and heartbreaking—but they also remind us of life’s eternal reality. In Why Tragedies Lead Us to Eternity, Lynette Kittle reflects on 2 Corinthians 2:15-16 and explores how witnessing or experiencing loss can point us to the hope we have in Christ. Listeners will be encouraged to consider their eternal destination, understand the gift of salvation, and trust that Jesus has conquered death, offering everlasting life to all who believe. This episode is essential for anyone seeking clarity, comfort, and assurance in the face of life’s fragility. ✨ Highlights 2 Corinthians 2:15-16: Christians are the aroma of Christ to the saved and unsaved 1 Thessalonians 4:13: Comfort for those grieving with hope in Christ Hebrews 2:9: Jesus’ death and resurrection bring eternal life to believers Eternal choices: Daniel 12:2 and Matthew 25:46 explain the reality of judgment The futility of trying to cheat death vs. the promise of resurrection through Jesus John 5:24, John 8:51, John 11:25-26: Belief in Christ ensures victory over death Reflection: Do you know where you will spend eternity? 💬 Join the Conversation Have you considered how sudden tragedies point to the hope we have in Jesus? How does trusting Him change the way you live today? Share your reflections with the LifeAudio community! Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #EternalLife #TrustInJesus #ChristianHope #SalvationInChrist to encourage others to embrace the gift of eternal life. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Why Tragedies Lead Us to Eternity  By Lynette Kittle  “For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task?”--2 Corinthians 2:15-16  Our nation has witnessed some horrific tragedies including fiery plane crashes, destructive fires, devastating floods, explosive tornadoes, and more. In all of these, we’ve witnessed individuals’ lives end in an instant, with no prior warning, leaving this world in a moment’s notice and headed for eternity. Christians whose loved ones pass away have the hope of seeing them again, in eternity. But to those who don’t believe and haven’t accepted Christ as their Savior, there is no hope. 1 Thessalonians 4:13, explains, “Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.” The Good News is that Jesus has tasted death for us, so we don’t have to, and those who perish knowing Christ, move from life to life, walking into their new forever lives in a second. Hebrews 2:9 explains, “But we do see Jesus, who was made lower than the angels for a little while, now crowned with glory and honor because He suffered death, so that by the grace of God He might taste death for everyone.” Bystanders to Tragedies Can Still Choose Being witnesses and bystanders to these tragedies leads us to eternity. Even if we don’t know those who are leaving this earth, their passing lives remind us that we need to be ready for it.  Some individuals aren’t worried about dying, believing that their lives will just cease to exist at death, an eternal oblivion. But life continues after physical death, whether we accept Christ or not, our life will continue eternally. It’s just a matter of where we choose to live it. Daniel 12:2 describes what is to come: “Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt.” In Matthew 25:46, Jesus describes what happens, “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.” Cheaters Never Win Others believe they can cheat death and live forever, hard at work trying to stop it from happening to them. But Hebrews 9:27 says it’s appointed unto each man to die once, so humans on earth are wasting their resources, time, and efforts trying to escape death.   As the Scripture explains, “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment” But Jesus gives us a free pass from death and all we have to do is to accept His gift of eternal life, but if we reject it, then we’re on our own.  As 1 Corinthians 15:21-22 explains, “For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.” Scripture makes it very clear, explaining over-and-over again how it works. Jesus said in John 5:24 “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.” Again, in John 8:51, Jesus said, “Very truly I tell you, whoever obeys My word will never see death.” How much more clear could He make it, saying yet again in John 11:25-26 “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in Me will never die. Do you believe this?’” So the question for us to answer today is, “Do we believe?” If so, then we don’t have to worry or be concerned about sudden danger, tragedy, and death because our eternity is already settled. We are ready for eternity without a moment’s notice. Intersecting Faith & Life: If you should die today, or tomorrow, or next week, do you know where you will spend eternity? If not, you can settle your eternal destination right now, by receiving Jesus’ gift of Salvation, received through His death on the cross and resurrection from the grave. Further Reading: How Do We Tell Others About Christ? https://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/ibelieve-truth-a-devotional-for-women/how-do-we-tell-others-about-christ.html Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Obeying God rather than man is one of the most vital choices in the Christian life. Acts 5:29 reminds us, “We must obey God rather than human beings!”—a truth that calls believers to stand firm in faith, walk in obedience, and trust God’s authority above cultural pressures or human approval. In It Is Better to Obey God Than to Obey Man by Vivian Bricker, we explore why obedience flows from love, how fear is replaced by faith, and why following God leads to freedom, joy, and spiritual growth. This episode is perfect for listeners seeking encouragement in Christian living, strength to resist temptation, and clarity on what it means to obey God daily. ✨ Highlights Acts 5:29: Peter and the apostles boldly declare obedience to God over people Why fear of man fades when we trust in God’s love and protection (Psalm 118:6) Obedience rooted in love, not fear—John 14:15 and God’s heart for His children Practical encouragement for standing firm when pressured by others The dangers of obeying man over God and drifting away spiritually How submitting to God brings true joy, freedom, and a stronger relationship with Him 💬 Join the Conversation Who are you obeying—God or man? How can you live out obedience to God in your daily choices with courage and joy? Share your reflections with the LifeAudio community! Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #ObeyGodNotMan #ChristianLiving #FaithInAction to encourage others to walk boldly in obedience to the Lord. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: It Is Better to Obey God Than to Obey Man By: Vivian Bricker “Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than human beings!’” (Acts 5:29).  Each day, we have the choice of whether we will obey God or obey man. Many of us are fearful of other humans, but in truth, we shouldn’t be afraid of them. May we all echo the words of the psalmist, “The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (Psalm 118:6). Rather than being afraid, we can live freely in obedience to God.   Many believe this means we should be afraid of God, but this isn’t what God wants. He doesn’t want us to be afraid of Him. He wants us to respect Him, obey Him, and love Him.  Fear doesn’t last, but love always does. If we genuinely love God, we will obey Him (John 14:15). Our hearts will be devoted to God alone, and we won’t have a desire to obey man over God’s commands. Living in obedience to Him will bring about our greatest good. Walking in obedience to God is based on love and His work in our lives. It can take some time to walk in obedience with the Lord fully; however, as long as we are trying to walk according to Him, we are going in the right direction. We will never be perfect, so we will all still continue to sin throughout our lives; however, our lives will change when we actively choose to obey God rather than man. Whenever we are faced with the decision of obeying God or going along with whatever a person tells us to do, we need to stand our ground. While we don’t need to be angry or hostile to others, we need to stand up for the Lord and remain faithful to Him. If we choose to obey mankind over God, we will fall into many temptations and sins. Submitting to them and treating them as our ultimate authority will only lead us further away from God. This alone can drastically affect our relationship with the Lord. Rather than growing in our relationship with Him, we will drift away with the world. Intersecting Faith & Life: The Bible tells us, “Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than human beings!’” (Acts 5:29). As believers, we need to follow what Peter and the apostles say here: first and foremost, we must obey God. There is no reason for us to obey humans if they are not in agreement with the Bible. Obeying God is not a chore or something to dread. Everything He has taught us in the Bible is to help us. God isn’t a killjoy or a malevolent ruler who wants to control us. Instead, He is our loving, caring, and kind Father who wants the best for us. Submitting to Him and obeying Him will help us have more joyful lives. Who are you obeying: God or man? How might you start obeying God rather than man? How can you keep yourself accountable for walking in obedience with God rather than the world?  Further Reading: 1 Samuel 15:22 Proverbs 3:5-6 Luke 6:46-49 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you ready for the return of Christ? The Book of Revelation reminds us that Jesus will come again, and every thought, word, and deed—both public and private—will be revealed before Him. In Are You Ready for the Lord?, we reflect on Revelation 1:3 and explore how God’s warnings to the seven churches still call us today to live faithfully, repent of sin, and prepare for eternity with Him. Perfect for listeners seeking hope, guidance, and clarity about the end times, Christian accountability, and walking in readiness for the Lord’s return. ✨ Highlights Revelation 1:3: a blessing for those who read, hear, and take to heart God’s prophecy Why Revelation reveals both encouragement and warnings for the church How God’s omniscience uncovers both our good works and our hidden sins The promise of Christ’s return and the hope of eternity in heaven What the seven churches teach us about living faithfully today Reflection: Are your deeds pleasing to God, or in need of repentance? 💬 Join the Conversation Are you living ready for Christ’s return? What does preparing for eternity look like in your daily life? Share your reflections with the LifeAudio community! Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #FaithAndEndTimes #ChristianLiving #ReadyForTheLord to encourage others to stay watchful and walk in faith until the day He returns. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Are You Ready for the Lord? “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.” Revelation 1:3. “Ready or not, here I come!” I would shout these words with my friends as we played the classic game of hide and seek as kids. Whenever I went over my friend's house or got to choose what we played at recess, hide and seek was one of my favorites. Because I was so small, I could hide in various places around the playground or around my friend's house. With great anticipation, I waited as I heard my friend's footsteps coming frantically, trying to find me.  Once, I hid in my friend’s pantry and ducked under the high shelves filled with canned goods. When they couldn't see me, I hollered, “Here I am!” I ran to my friends, grinning from ear to ear at the realization I had tricked them into not finding me.  Although I would love to hide from God, regarding my deepest secrets and sins, God's omniscience and sovereignty always reveal them to me. He always knows exactly where I'm hiding: my thoughts, words, and deeds, both publicly and privately. The book of Revelation is a retelling of just that. God, seeing the church's deeds done both openly and privately, knows the places where they're strong, but also where they are weak.  The Apostle John writes the Book of Revelation as the prophetic uncovering of the church’s most extraordinary deeds. In a sense, the Book of Revelation is like John repeating those fateful words the person tasked with finding their hidden friends in the game of hide and seek must utter aloud: “Ready or not, here I come!” But the Lord, in his sovereignty and grace, gives us ample time to get prepared. The book of Revelation is to prepare the body of Christ with the understanding that Christ will come back again someday. Although no one is sure exactly when he will return, Revelation is clear that the Lord will come down on the clouds and you will rise with him to spend eternity with him in heaven.  Although this will be a joyous day when we get to unite with our savior, we will also become accountable for all our deeds, both public and private. The worst sins are covered under the blood of Christ’s atonement; we will receive rewards in heaven based on how we choose to live our lives.  God gives John these visions of the seven churches because all of us can relate to and see ourselves in both the good and bad deeds that John reveals. The Book of Revelation is not meant to scare us or make us afraid of God. Rather, it is a warning to make sure we're living lives worthy of Christ both in thought and deed.  Take a moment and analyze the words John uses to both encourage and admonish each of the seven churches. First, John always tells them what they are doing well. Then, he lets them know the places where they are falling short. Then, he ends with other things that they are doing well that the Lord most enjoys.  It will be the same with us in the last days. The Lord will point out all the things that we did well. However, he will also hold us accountable for the reasons behind our actions. Whether we committed a particular act or refrained from standing up for doing what is right, all our deeds will be exposed and judged accordingly.  Although the Book of Revelation is targeted toward specific churches, take a moment and think about your own deeds. Would your thoughts be something that pleases him, or something for which he must admonish?  In Revelation, one thing is clear: Regardless of whether we understand fully the symbolism outline, God will one day return to be united with his children. Are you ready? Father, let us be people whose deeds are pleasing to you. Let us analyze our deeds, done both publicly and privately. Let my words and deeds be things that you would find attractive, and not ones that would prompt a letter of rebuke.   Intersecting Faith and Life Are there deeds in your life for which you need to repent? What can you do to do that? Further reading 1 Thessalonians 4 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Christian emptiness can feel overwhelming, but in Christ, our emptiness becomes the very space He fills with His presence and peace. In How Emptiness Fills Our Souls, Peyton Garland shares her journey through OCD, therapy, and discovering how God uses our broken places to reveal His love and healing. If you’ve struggled with loneliness, anxiety, or spiritual dryness, this episode offers encouragement to see emptiness not as the end, but as the beginning of God’s work of restoration in your life. ✨ Highlights Ephesians 3:16–19: God strengthens and fills us through His Spirit How emptiness creates space for healing, hope, and God’s fullness Breaking free from cultural lies about independence and fulfillment Personal testimony of finding help through Christian counseling Why vulnerability opens doors to truth, peace, and lasting joy Emptiness as an opportunity to encounter God’s resurrection power 💬 Join the Conversation Have you ever felt spiritually or emotionally empty? How has God met you in that space? Share your story with the LifeAudio community! Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #FaithAndHealing #ChristianCounseling #HopeInChrist to connect and encourage others who may be walking through emptiness toward God’s fullness. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: How Emptiness Fills Our Souls By Peyton Garland “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:16-19 (NIV) An American woman born to a well-to-do middle-class family, my basic needs were met, and my superficial childhood wishes almost always came true. My life wasn’t perfect, though, as my father struggled with PTSD for most of my childhood, and I battled undiagnosed OCD. Those were the hidden pieces of my easy life that weren’t simple to fix. No toy or vacation can heal the mind, and when it’s left unsettled for so many years, it learns to operate out of fear.  My family isn’t one to volunteer for therapy or mental health counseling. Our old southern roots dig deep in the dirt, and my relatives often see those roots as the laces by which we should all pull ourselves up by our bootstraps.  But at 25, this boot-strap philosophy still wasn’t working. I felt hollow and lonely, as though no one could understand my obsessive mind and the intrusive thoughts I could never shake. I opened up to a friend who recommended a therapist in my area, and attending her sessions was life-changing.  I came to her office at the end of my rope, empty of answers and hope, and because of this emptiness, I was able to be filled. And because I was making my emptiness known to a trusted source, I could be filled with goodness and truth. I could find healing that would never have happened had I been left to my own devices.  My therapist granted me a fresh perspective concerning my OCD. She offered conversations that allowed me to discover core issues that my heart continued to carry. She also shared hard truths concerning my diagnosis and my relationships with others that I needed to hear. Therapy wasn’t easy work. I often left feeling physically depleted, but my heart was settled. Hope had a brighter face, one I could look at and believe in.  I share my story to remind you that feeling empty, whether in relationships, job fulfillment, spiritual searching, etc., doesn’t have to be the end of your story. It doesn’t have to define who you are or keep hope out of reach. Emptiness is an opportunity to be filled, but we must only open ourselves up to be filled with what is good, lovely, and true. Anything else will not only reinforce the weight of emptiness but span the gap between you and joy that lasts. Emptiness isn’t meant to be a badge of honor, either. In a culture that tells women they are better off alone, without children, and most fulfilled at a desk, it’s easy to believe the lie that remaining devoid of relationships with people and God is the route to safety and success. But I encourage you to rebuke culture’s destructive lie. Don’t allow emptiness to become a companion. It’s a lousy friend, I promise.  Just as an empty tomb gave way to the resurrected Savior, who has set the world free, may your empty heart give way to God’s glory and vision for your life. May your emptiness prompt your hands to open, and may your hunger be filled with everlasting peace.  “Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.” Psalm 107:8-9 (NIV) Intersecting Faith & Life: Take some time to list any/all ways you feel empty. If it’s relationally, consider opening yourself up to healthy friendships through a church small group, moms’ group, book club, etc. If you feel spiritually empty, find a trusted Christian leader to confide in. If your mental health feels hollow, I encourage you to seek Christian counseling, like I did. Further Reading: When You Feel Spiritually Dry Psalm 107 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Christian joy isn’t something to feel guilty about—it’s a gift from God. In Go Ahead and Enjoy Your Life, Whitney Hopler reflects on Ecclesiastes 9:7 and reminds us that God has already approved the simple pleasures that bring gladness to our hearts. From meals with friends to family adventures, enjoying life is part of our spiritual walk. Discover how embracing joy in everyday moments deepens your faith, relieves stress, and opens your eyes to the wonder of God’s work around you. ✨ Highlights Ecclesiastes 9:7: God’s approval for us to enjoy life’s blessings Why Christians often feel guilty about rest, leisure, or enjoyment—and how to let go of that guilt Joy as a spiritual practice: how savoring meals, nature, and meaningful connections can draw us closer to God The difference between God-honoring enjoyment and reckless indulgence Practical ways to recognize God’s presence in joyful experiences How gratitude and delight strengthen your relationship with Him 💬 Join the Conversation Do you struggle with feeling guilty for enjoying life’s simple pleasures? How has God reminded you that joy is part of His plan for you? Share your story with the LifeAudio community! Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #ChristianJoy #EnjoyLife #FaithAndHappiness to encourage others to embrace God’s approval to live with gladness. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Go Ahead and Enjoy Your Life By: Whitney Hopler  “Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do.” - Ecclesiastes 9:7, NIV  My favorite way to get together with my friends is to enjoy lunch together. I regularly make reservations at various restaurants to meet each friend one-on-one. There’s something about eating a good meal that helps us especially enjoy our time together. At lunch, we can relax and be fully present with each other, rather than getting distracted by the items on our to-do lists. We can savor our food by eating mindfully and savor our conversations by listening well to each other. As we do, we’re free from stress and able to fully embrace the joy God offers in that experience. We could eat shorter and less expensive lunches if we just ate at home while talking on the phone together. But we don’t feel guilty about our restaurant lunches, because we know that eating our food with gladness together is always a good choice. Have you ever felt guilty for enjoying something when you could have made a more practical choice? Maybe you went to see a sports game or a theater show in person, even though the tickets were expensive and you could have just watched TV instead. Maybe you took a day trip to a place you’ve wanted to visit for a while, instead of spending the day getting caught up on chores or errands. When you’re busy, it’s easy to feel like you always need to be practical and productive. But finding joy in life is also important, because God wants you to live life to the fullest.  This verse from Ecclesiastes can remind you that God is a loving Father who loves to see you enjoy life. God has already approved of the happiness you get from a delicious dinner, a fun concert, or a trip to a museum with your family. Experiences like those aren’t distractions from your spiritual life; they’re a part of it.  God is at work all around you, all the time. You can discover the wonder of God’s work every day – in nature, in the love that flows between you and your family and friends, and in many other experiences. You just need to make time to look for it. Paying attention to God’s wonderful work around you is easier when you’re not rushed and stressed. When you choose to go ahead and enjoy life day by day, you’ll naturally start to notice more of what God is doing in your life.  So, go ahead. Enjoy your food with gladness. Drink your wine (or your water, or your tea) with a joyful heart. Embrace all the fun and adventure you can – and don’t feel guilty for it. God has already approved what you do! He wants you to find joy in your life, to see how that joy comes from the wonder of his work, and to be grateful for every single blessing he gives you.  Enjoying your life on a regular basis is just as important spiritually as your regular spiritual practices, like prayer, reading the Bible, and going to church. Give yourself permission to enjoy your life. God has already given you his approval to enjoy the life he has so graciously given you!  Intersecting Faith and Life As you consider how important it is to enjoy life, reflect on these questions: How often do you feel guilty for simply enjoying something? Why do you think that is?  What’s one action you can take today to look for the wonder of God’s work in your life?  Think of a time recently when you felt a sense of pure joy. What was happening, and how can you see God working through that experience?  What’s the difference between simple enjoyment and reckless indulgence?  In what ways does finding joy in everyday life strengthen your relationship with God? Further Reading  1 Timothy 6:17 Psalm 16:11 Proverbs 17:22 Psalm 34:8 James 1:17 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Christian community and biblical fellowship are essential for spiritual growth and protection from the enemy. In Our Need for Each Other, Cindi McMenamin explores Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 and Proverbs 18:1 to show why God created us for connection, not isolation. Drawing wisdom from Scripture and even from caterpillars in North Africa, this episode highlights how linking with other believers strengthens our faith, shields us from spiritual attack, and helps us live out the “one another” commands of the Bible. ✨ Highlights Why “two are better than one” (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10) is vital for Christian living The dangers of isolation—how loneliness can open the door to shame, fear, and destructive thoughts Biblical wisdom from Proverbs 18:1 and the importance of community Lessons from creation: caterpillars traveling in unity as a model of spiritual defense Practical encouragement to link arms with other believers for spiritual survival and growth God’s design for fellowship, accountability, and interdependence in the body of Christ 💬 Join the Conversation Have you ever experienced God’s protection and encouragement through Christian community? How do you stay connected when life gets busy? Share your story with the LifeAudio community! Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #OurNeedForEachOther #ChristianCommunity #FaithAndFellowship to encourage others to link up and walk this journey of faith together. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Our Need for Each Other   By Cindi McMenamin, Crosswalk Contributing Writer   “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor for if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up!” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10) King Solomon, whom Scripture calls the wisest man who ever lived, told us there is strength in numbers when we are surrounding ourselves with at least one other believer.  But it’s just so easy these days to shoot a text or respond to someone via email instead of actually being with one another.  Life can get busy and we can too easily find ourselves isolating from one another. We may not intend to do it, but when our to-do list screams at us to be more productive, the needs from our family become too insistent, and the internal cry of ours is to get away from everyone and get some rest, we can end up on an island, feeling isolated and alone. But linking up with other believers in the body of Christ, is not just an option. It’s essential for our survival.  Intersecting Faith and Life:  While I was in North Africa visiting my brother, we were on a walk through a rural park when he pointed out to me something I had never seen or noticed in the States. The caterpillars—dark grey and black in color—travel single file one after another, linked so closely that they look like one long snake on the ground to any predator above them like a bird or animal that might otherwise swoop down and eat a single caterpillar or two.  “When they link up with one another, they are protected,” my brother pointed out. “That is their defense.”  I watched them closely. They weren’t independent, doing their own thing and only coming together when they needed something to do or something to eat. They traveled this way. They walked this way. It was their lifestyle, their mode of operation.  In Scripture, we are given more than thirty “one-another” commands, instructing us how to live with and relate to other believers. We are not to just link up when it’s time for a church potluck or an entertaining event. We are to live linked, travel that way, walk that way. It’s our defense.  The enemy of your soul knows the potential of a like-minded believer to strengthen your faith. Therefore, he wants you to believe you’re fine on your own, you’re strong independently, and that no one really has time to hear of your struggles anyway. But God created us to be dependent on Him and interdependent on one another so He can be glorified in our celebrations as well as our sufferings. Satan wants nothing more than for you to detach from the train of believers and move increasingly further from the body of Christ, and to believe God’s church is no longer relevant to your life.  But like the defenseless caterpillars, when you and I are alone, we are prey to the enemy. If he can get us alone in our thoughts, he can bring in shame about our past, doubt about our present, and fear about our future. He will also try to lure us toward destructive thoughts about ourselves and others. When people are alone they get depressed. When people are alone they damage their bodies. When people are alone they take their lives. Those aren’t group activities. Satan strikes the believer when he or she is alone.  King Solomon, who told us two are better than one, also wrote: “Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment” (Proverbs 18:1).  In other words, by seeking our own desires, we are not considering the wisdom of others. In another translation, that verse reads: “Whoever pulls away from others to focus solely on his own desires disregards any sense of sound judgment” (The Voice).  In Proverbs 6:6-8, Solomon instructs us to look at the ant and gain wisdom from her work ethic. We also ought to look to the caterpillars to gain wisdom from their survival skills. When we link up with one another, we’re less of a target to our enemy. We are protected as we are among each other and cooperating together. We are not renegade, off by ourselves, doing what is right in our own eyes. Once we separate and go our own way, we become fodder for the enemy. God never intended for us to isolate ourselves. He created us for community with one another. Don’t try to go it alone, my friend. Link up with those who are on this journey with you. You need them for your spiritual and emotional survival, as much as they need you.  Lord, thank You for the way you designed the North African caterpillars to operate in Your intended fashion for their survival. Help me to be wise and link up with those you have surrounded me with so I will stay strong in you and never walk alone.  Further Reading: Ecclesiastes 4:11-12; Philippians 2:1-3 For more on growing closer to God and others, see my books: The New Loneliness: Nurturing Meaningful Connections When You Feel Isolated, and The New Loneliness Devotional: 50 Days to a Closer Connection with God.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Struggling with darkness, depression, or discouragement? In The Lord Is My Light, Vivian Bricker unpacks Micah 7:8 to remind us that even when we fall, God’s light breaks through. This episode offers hope for Christians battling spiritual darkness, emotional struggles, and seasons of despair—pointing to the Lord’s protection, grace, and peace that bring light out of shadows. Perfect for those seeking encouragement, Christian hope, and biblical truth about overcoming darkness with God’s presence. ✨ Highlights Micah 7:8 and the promise: “Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light.” How depression and spiritual darkness can affect our walk with God Why physical and emotional darkness can give a false sense of security The Lord’s power to protect, restore, and bring peace even in life’s darkest seasons Encouragement to rise again after falling, trusting in God’s light and salvation 💬 Join the Conversation Do you ever find the darkness more comfortable than the light? How has Jesus brought you out of seasons of despair into His peace and presence? Share your reflections with the LifeAudio community! Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #TheLordIsMyLight #ChristianEncouragement #FaithAndHope to encourage others with your story of God’s light breaking through. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: The Lord Is My Light By: Vivian Bricker “Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light” (Micah 7:8).  As someone who struggles with depression, I often find myself in the darkness. This might surprise some, but I tend to be more comfortable in the darkness. Rainy days and nights bring me comfort, while the brilliance of the sun brings my heart grief. Sad music brings my heart comfort rather than upbeat, happy tunes. Even though some of us may be comfortable in the darkness, it does not mean it is the healthiest place to be, either physically or spiritually. Always being in physical darkness can worsen our feelings of depression as well as our deep sorrow. In the same way, being in spiritual or emotional darkness can cause us to suffer in our walk with the Lord.  As we turn more to the Lord, we will see His light shine into our lives. He calls us out of the darkness and into His Kingdom. Even though it might be scary at times to go into the light, we can trust the Lord. The darkness is not our forever home, as it only gives us a false sense of security. By turning to the Lord, we will have His protection, grace, and peace. Intersecting Faith & Life: Through the Book of Micah, we see Micah calling the Lord his light: “Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light” (Micah 7:8). As Micah says in this passage, although he sits in darkness, the Lord will be his light. Jesus will also be our light; even if we sit in the darkness for years, we can still find hope in the Lord. While some periods of darkness can feel comfortable to us, there are also other periods of darkness that cause us to feel worried, scared, and alone. During these times of darkness, we can also find comfort in knowing the Lord is our light. He will illuminate the darkness and make His peace, comfort, and love known to us. We are never without hope because we are never without God. Upon further reflection on Micah 7:8, we also see the prophet saying, “Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise.” Like Micah, we can also tell our enemies that they cannot gloat over us. Although we may have fallen, we will rise again. The Lord will establish our feet on level ground and strengthen us.  He is our light and our salvation (Psalm 27:1). We never need to doubt Him or be worried. The Lord brings light out of darkness, and where He stands, the dark shadows flee away. There is nothing in all creation that can thwart Jesus’ protection or His power. Rather than remaining in the darkness, we can step out into the light today.  Do you find the darkness to be more comfortable? Why or why not? What would it look like to have Jesus bring you out of this darkness? Would it give you a sense of hope or uncertainty? Jesus is the light of our lives and will help us rise again. How can you find peace in this truth today?  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.