The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

God does not ask us to fight spiritual battles in our own strength. His love reminds us that we belong to Him, while His Word gives us the truth we need to recognize and resist the enemy’s lies. Through prayer, Scripture, faith, and dependence on Christ, we can stand firm when temptation, fear, doubt, or discouragement comes. Victory does not come from believing we are strong enough on our own, but from trusting the God who loves us and is faithful to strengthen, protect, and sustain us. Highlights How God’s love gives us confidence when facing spiritual battles Why spiritual warfare requires dependence on God rather than our own strength How recognizing the enemy’s lies can help us stand firm in truth The role of prayer and Scripture in resisting temptation and discouragement Why remembering that we are deeply loved by God changes how we face spiritual warfare How faith in Christ helps us overcome fear, doubt, and spiritual opposition Encouragement to trust God’s power when the battle feels bigger than you can handle Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: God’s Love Empowers You to Win Spiritual Battles By: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading:“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 8:38-39, NIV I remember visiting my mom in the hospital and bringing her a magazine. It was opened to an article about God’s angels when her nurse noticed it sitting beside her bed. That led to a conversation I’ve never forgotten. He told me that several years earlier, while he was in rehab for alcohol addiction, he had gone through intense spiritual battles. During seasons when he spent a long time praying, God sometimes allowed him to see something that’s usually invisible. The nurse said he could actually see both holy angels and fallen angels around him as battles between good and evil were taking place. It was scary to witness spiritual warfare that’s usually unseen, but he also said it filled him with hope because every time he prayed for help, God responded with love by sending holy angels to fight on his behalf. Looking back, the nurse was convinced that, because God never stopped loving him, he was able to win those spiritual battles. The nurse praised God for lovingly empowering him with everything he needed to break free from alcohol addiction. Whether or not you ever see angels and demons with your physical eyes, the Bible makes it clear that spiritual battles are real. Every day, you face temptations, discouragement, fear, lies, and attacks that try to pull you away from God. Sometimes the battles are obvious. At other times, they happen quietly in your thoughts, your emotions, or the choices you make. The good news is that you never have to fight these battles by yourself. Romans 8:38-39 promises that nothing can separate you from God’s love – even demons and the most intense spiritual battles you go through. There is absolutely nothing in all creation that is stronger than the love God has for you through Jesus Christ. When you know that God’s love is constantly there for you, you no longer have to live in fear. Evil wants you to believe that you’re alone, forgotten, or beyond hope. But those are lies. God’s Word tells you that God’s love is much stronger than every spiritual attack on you. Love is at the core of who God is. Since God loves you completely, he does much more than just watch you struggle from a distance. God comes close to you and strengthens you in all the ways you need strength, so you can win your spiritual battles. The nurse I met told me that God’s loving care gave him the strength to keep choosing the next best step as he fought spiritual battles. Over time, God’s love empowered him to win the entire war he faced with addiction. What battles are you fighting right now? Maybe you’re fighting anxiety, bitterness, temptation, loneliness, shame, or some other enemy. Maybe you’re praying for a loved one who seems far from God. Don’t give up! The God who loves you is still at work, even when you can’t see what he’s doing. Because you’re loved by an all-powerful God, you can keep fighting with courage and confidence – and you can expect to win every single one of your spiritual battles. So, choose to rest in God’s powerful love for you. Bring every fear that worries you to God in prayer. Remind yourself of God’s powerful promises to you. Keep trusting God to guide you through your battles one step at a time. No matter how challenging the spiritual warfare in your life becomes, nothing can separate you from God’s love. Remembering that reality will give you the strength to overcome every spiritual battle in your life. Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider how God’s love empowers you to win spiritual battles, reflect on these questions: What spiritual battle are you facing right now that you need to rely on God’s strength to fight? How does knowing that nothing can separate you from God’s love give you hope? What lies have evil attacks tried to make you believe, and what truths from God’s Word can help you fight those lies? In what areas of your life do you need to rely more on God’s strength instead of your own? How can you encourage someone else this week with the reminder that God’s love never lets them go? Further Reading: Ephesians 6:10-12 1 John 4:4 James 4:7 Psalm 34:7 2 Corinthians 10:3-4 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Autumn reminds us that endings can be beautiful. As colorful leaves fall from the trees and one season gives way to another, we are reminded that God has a purpose for every season of life. Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us that there is “a time for every matter under heaven,” including seasons of surrender, change, and letting go. What feels like an ending may actually be God preparing our hearts for something new. Surrendering what we cling to can be difficult, especially when our expectations, fears, or sense of control feel deeply rooted. Yet God often works in us before He works around us, gently teaching us to release what we were never meant to carry. Like a tree yielding its leaves, we can trust God with what we need to let go of. Through the Holy Spirit, He can prune away sin, self-reliance, fear, and even good things that keep us from bearing greater fruit. Though the process may be painful, God can use every ending to make room for growth, deeper faith, and something more beautiful in His perfect timing. Highlights What autumn and changing seasons can teach us about surrender and letting go Why beautiful endings do not always come from loss or closed doors How God can change our hearts before He changes our circumstances Why surrender requires the work of the Holy Spirit rather than human willpower How releasing expectations can make room for God to work in our lives What Jesus’ teaching about the vine and branches in John 15 reveals about spiritual pruning Why painful seasons of pruning can ultimately lead to greater spiritual growth and fruitfulness Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: What Autumn Teaches Us about Beautiful Endings By Hannah Benson Bible Reading:“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1 ESV) Autumn has always been one of my favorite seasons. Crisp, colorful leaves crunching underneath my feet, hot apple cider, pumpkins, corn mazes, and the list goes on. Perhaps it also helps that my birthday falls during these autumn months, ensuring that even as a child, this was the season I favored most. I have such fond memories of growing up: playing dodgeball outside with my siblings and dad in the dark and watching gorgeous Appalachian mountain sunsets through our kitchen window as my family and I ate a cozy supper of soup and cornbread. But as we say hello to autumn, we inevitably have to say goodbye to the previous season of summer: to long evenings playing outside before dusk, to cool dips in the water, and to hiking up mountains in the blazing heat (well, maybe saying goodbye to the humidity isn't such a bad thing!) Yet as much as I absolutely love autumn, when I first thought about writing this devotional, fear squeezed my heart. God usually calls me to write what I’ve first gone through myself, so what this autumn might I have to say goodbye to in order to write this article? One evening before supper, I stood in my bedroom, gazing at the dreariness outside. “God?” I whispered. “What are you teaching me? What beautiful ending do You want me to write about?” Perhaps something I had to surrender? A closed door? Something God had taught me, either recently or in years past? Then I realized deep down what God had been teaching me. Sometimes, we think beautiful endings need to come from losing something or someone we care deeply about, or from a door that slammed shut in our face, that God will use for our good. While God does rewrite tragedies into beautiful endings, what if beautiful endings also come from letting go of wearisome things? Earlier this year, I was striving, afraid of losing what mattered to me, and afraid of truly surrendering. I gripped my own expectations with an iron fist. I wanted to surrender. Knew I needed to. But I couldn’t. No matter how hard I tried. Then, a couple of months ago, God gently told me to “Release.” Oh, if only it were that easy. I realized that there was absolutely nothing I could do to change what I could see. “God, change my heart,” I whispered. Slowly, bit by bit, God unraveled the expectations I had and allowed me to release what I clung to. Surrender isn’t something we can accomplish with our own human willpower. It is something the Holy Spirit needs to work in our hearts. When we stop striving, God’s grace accomplishes within us what our flesh cannot. As summer drew to a close, so did the expectations I clung to with an iron fist. That’s not to say I don’t still struggle sometimes, but as I reflect on where I was emotionally and spiritually earlier this year, I recognize that things I’d thought I’d lost were not lost when they are surrendered to the Father’s hand. Intersecting Faith & Life: When this year started, if I’m being honest, I looked at my circumstances and thought God couldn’t possibly change things. Which is wrong, I know. After all, the impossible is possible with God. Either that or I assumed God wouldn’t change things. But as the months passed, and spring turned into summer, and summer turned into autumn, God did so many things I once thought impossible, changing my heart before He began to change some of my circumstances. Like the trees yield their leaves unto the earth in order to pave the way for spring, so does the Lord ask us to yield what we’ve held onto to make way for something new. Sometimes, the new is completely different. It might mean saying goodbye to the “good things” in our lives to make way for something better. Sometimes, it means letting go of the heavy burdens and fears we were never meant to carry in the first place. Other times, He invites us to trust Him and watch Him do what we were almost too afraid to hope for. In John 15, Jesus tells His disciples that we are the branches, He is the vine, and His Father is the vinedresser. The branches cannot bear fruit on their own apart from the vine; neither can we bear fruit apart from Jesus. Often, the Lord must prune away not only our sin and self-reliance, but even good things we cling to, so we may continually become more like Him and bear even more fruit. Yes, the pruning can be painful, but the result is more beautiful than we could ever imagine. Every season has its own kind of beauty. Whether we lost something or someone dear to us or God stripped away the fears, self-reliance, or sin that held us back from embracing true life, every ending is made beautiful in His perfect time. Pray with me: Dear Father God, thank You for pruning the parts of me that do not please You so that I can bear fruit pleasing to You. Please help me to trust You even when the pruning is painful or not always pleasant. You are a good Father. In Jesus’s Name, Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What does it really mean to love Jesus above everyone and everything else? In Luke 14:26, Jesus uses strong language to teach His followers that their devotion to Him must come before every other relationship, desire, and priority. He is not calling us to hate our families; He is calling us to love Him so completely that every other love is secondary. Following Jesus means denying ourselves, taking up our cross, and choosing Him above our own desires. It is possible to call ourselves devoted followers of Christ while allowing other loves to slowly take His place. Family, friendships, careers, comfort, success, and even self-love can compete for the affection that belongs first to Jesus. When our love for Christ is our highest priority, however, every other relationship can be put in its proper place. Loving Jesus more changes the way we love our spouses, children, friends, neighbors, and even ourselves. His invitation is not simply to believe in Him, but to follow Him with wholehearted devotion. Highlights What Jesus meant when He said His followers must “hate” their families in Luke 14:26 Why loving Jesus first does not mean neglecting or hating the people we love What it means to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Christ How other relationships, desires, and priorities can quietly compete with our love for Jesus Why our passion and obedience to Christ can sometimes grow weaker over time How putting Jesus first helps us establish healthier priorities in every other relationship Encouragement to return to our “first love” and pursue Jesus with wholehearted devotion Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Loving Jesus More By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading:“If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, and even his own life—he cannot be my disciple.” - Luke 14:26 Have you ever stumbled over these words? Why would Jesus seem not to want any followers by telling others they have to hate their own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, and even their own life in order to be a devoted follower of His? Certainly, Jesus wasn’t telling us to hate others. In fact, He told a teacher of the Law that the greatest commandment was to love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind, and strength. And the second greatest was to love our neighbor as much as we already love ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). No, Jesus wasn’t telling us to hate others or neglect them in any way, especially those in our own households. He was telling us that our love and dedication to Him must be so strong that it’s as if we hate any other family member in comparison. He was giving us a very tall order for what it means to follow Him. He was letting us know what putting Him first really looked like. Jesus also told His disciples in Matthew 16:24-25: “If anyone wants to follow after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because of me will find it.” Again, was Jesus trying to make it so difficult that no one could follow Him? To the contrary, I believe He was looking for those who would love Him with the kind of dedication and sacrifice that He was soon to display in going to the cross for us. He didn’t want fair-weathered believers. He wanted loyal followers who would be willing to give Him their all. In light of this passage, I had to ask myself a few hard questions recently. Am I loving Jesus more than anyone or anything? Could I be following Him more closely than I am? Am I loving Him as much today as I did the day we met? I first decided to follow Jesus as a very young child. I barely remember the actual day. But I remember recommitting my life to Him many times throughout my growing-up years. Now that I'm in my sixth decade of life, I have long called myself a follower of Jesus. I have spent nearly a half-century instructing others on how to follow Him. But how closely am I following? I must admit there are days my passion for Him wanes. My obedience to Him seems not as important as the day before. My heart follows harder after other loves. And I am convicted all over again by those words of Jesus to His disciples. Intersecting Faith & Life Other loves can so quickly steal our hearts away. And sometimes our greatest love is for ourselves. The world constantly teaches through social media reels, television shows, movies, and ads to love yourself. But Jesus said, “deny yourself” and take up your cross (associate with His death), and follow Him, not the desires of your own hearts. The more I love myself, not Him, the easier it is for my “First Love”—which should be Jesus—to become my fourth, fifth, or sixth love… or worse yet, somewhere further down the list. I never want Jesus to say to me what He said to the church at Ephesus in Revelation 2:4-5: “But I have this against you: You have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember then how far you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first…” When I wholeheartedly love the One who made me, gave His life for me, and rose again to redeem me and make me more like Himself, I can put myself on the shelf and Jesus on the throne, and not worry about my self-esteem. I can focus on esteeming Him. And when I love Him more than any other, my priorities will be rightly ordered when it comes to being a good spouse, parent, sibling, friend, and neighbor. Lord Jesus, help me to love You more than I do, and to follow more closely after You. On good days and bad. When I'm motivated and when I'm not. In busy times and lean times. May You be first and foremost in my heart. Further Study:Matthew 22:37-38 For daily encouragement to love Jesus more, see Cindi’s book: The New Loneliness Devotional: 50 Days to a Closer Connection with God. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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