The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

Thanksgiving is more than a holiday—it’s a lifestyle. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 calls us to “rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances,” showing that gratitude should be our daily posture. From small blessings like a morning cup of coffee to the vast gifts of God’s love, cultivating a heart of thankfulness transforms our perspective, lifts our spirits, and strengthens our relationship with Him. From all of us at Lifeaudio and Salem Media, Happy Thanksgiving. Highlights Gratitude is a daily choice, not a seasonal habit. Starting small—like noting one thing you’re thankful for each morning—can shift your mindset. Counting blessings outweighs burdens and fosters joy and contentment. God’s goodness and provision remain constant, even when circumstances are difficult. Journaling or listing gifts of God can deepen awareness of His work in your life. Practicing gratitude strengthens your heart, aligns your perspective with God’s will, and brings joy. God delights when His children acknowledge His blessings and rely on Him daily. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: Giving Thanks Isn’t a Day—It’s a Daily Posture By: Alexis A. Goring Bible Reading:“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”—1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV Here in the United States of America, the Thanksgiving holiday is upon us.It is a time to practice gratitude and share what we are thankful for in this life. Often during this time of year, people tend to be more appreciative and count their blessings from God. But giving thanks shouldn’t be an occasional event; it should be a daily posture. I’d like to share a story illustration that I heard a little while ago: A husband told his grumpy wife, who was feeling ungrateful every day, that she should give thanks for what she has. He presented a challenge: Every morning when you go to the kitchen to make your coffee, name one thing you are grateful for, then write it on a piece of paper and put that paper into this glass jar before you drink your coffee. His wife was angry at him, but followed his instructions, and for the first few days, all she could write was “coffee,” but a few days later, she realized that she also appreciated the sunlight. So, she put “sunshine” on the paper, and a day after that, she thought of something else and wrote it down. Before long, the jar was filled with notes of what she was grateful for, and her entire mood had lifted. Her mentality improved. As her gratitude grew, so did her positive attitude. My maternal grandma told me many years ago, “Gratitude will change your attitude. Take inventory of your blessings.” Her words ring true for me to this day. She was a wise woman. She was right because I found that when I remember to count my blessings instead of my burdens, I feel better as I realize how my blessings outweigh my burdens. When I focus on what’s going right in my life instead of what went wrong, I naturally start giving thanks to God. The Bible says that God wants us to “give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). This means that no matter what we face, we need to look for the silver lining. I believe that God can restore the most broken places and people in our lives when we put our hope in Him (Romans 8:28). Sometimes, we don’t see the resolution until we go home to Heaven. But no matter what happens here on Earth, the truth is that God is good all the time and He has good plans for our lives. He will never leave us nor forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:8). Thanks to God’s Son (Jesus Christ), we have the hope of eternity with our Creator when we put our faith in Him (Romans 10:13). There’s always something or someone to be grateful for, even if you are just happy that your heart is still beating or if you, like the woman in the story illustration above, are only grateful for your daily cup of coffee. Well then, that’s a start! Ann Voskamp wrote a book, One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are. Toward the end of it is a challenge for the reader to write one thousand things that they are grateful for. I accepted this challenge promptly by going to a Christian bookstore and buying a beautiful journal covered in a purple and pink design, then writing down what I was grateful for several times a week. My first entry in this journal was made on February 28, 2011. I wrote “Rainy days”. My last entry was made on September 23, 2017: “God’s love” being the thousandth thing I was grateful for that day. It most likely won’t take you six years to complete this gratitude challenge but I believe it will be worth it. When we give thanks to God, it strengthens our heart and soul. When we pray to Him and ask Him to meet our every need, He does so in His perfect time. When we thank Him for His provision, I believe it makes His heart smile and perhaps fills God with gratitude for creating humankind. So, as this Thanksgiving season is here, let’s pause at least once a day and think about all we are grateful for, then thank God for all of it and more. Such a practice will fill our hearts with joy and help us remember that our God is good all year round. In closing, I’d like you to listen to these songs: Song of Reflection #1: “Counting My Blessings” by Seph Schlueter. Song of Reflection #2: “Gratitude” by Brandon Lake. Song of Reflection #3: “Thank You” by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Intersecting Faith & Life: Have you tried giving thanks in all things? Imagine how your life would be different in the best ways if you practiced gratitude daily. Further Reading: Psalm 100:4-5Psalm 107:1Philippians 4:6-7James 1:17Hebrews 12:28-29 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Thanksgiving is a season meant for gratitude, yet it can also bring comparison, grief, and longing. Hebrews 13:5 reminds us that contentment comes not from circumstances or possessions, but from trusting in God’s promise: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” True contentment arises when we recognize His presence in our lives, even when what we desire seems absent. This season, learning to be thankful for what we have—not what we lack—can transform our hearts and deepen our trust in God. Highlights Contentment is rooted in God’s faithfulness, not worldly circumstances. Thanksgiving can trigger comparison, grief, or longing, but gratitude refocuses the heart. Practicing thankfulness for family, home, and relationships cultivates a heart of contentment. Avoiding a love of money or material things helps prevent discontent. God’s promise to never leave or forsake us is the foundation for genuine peace and joy. Even in seasons of loss or unmet desires, contentment allows us to recognize and appreciate God’s blessings. Reflecting on Scripture daily encourages a shift from want to gratitude. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: Practicing Contentment This Thanksgiving By Vivian Bricker Bible Reading: “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you’” (Hebrews 13:5). While thankfulness should be our main focus on Thanksgiving, sometimes it can also be a time of comparison. When we go to family get-togethers or friendsgivings, it is hard not to compare our lives to others. Maybe we are the only single person amongst our friend group and we want to have a spouse. Or maybe we are recovering from the death of a loved one and we have a hard time coping with the lightheartedness of those around us. Personally, ever since my mom passed away, Thanksgiving has never felt the same. Some years it has been easier to cope with, while others the depression, grief, and loss has felt overwhelming. Although my family’s Thanksgiving doesn’t look like other people’s Thanksgivings, it doesn't mean we can not practice thankfulness for the blessings that we do have. In truth, it has allowed us to develop contentment for the circumstance we have found ourselves in. While I would want more than anything for my mom to be here, all I can do now is to be content and thankful for the family I do have and the time we have together. The same goes for any circumstance you have found yourself in this year. My friend really wants to be married, but she hasn’t ever dated anyone and it gives her grief every year she sits in front of her siblings with their spouses. It can be painful to be in this situation and quite depressing, however, if we change our hearts to contentment rather than want, we will learn to be thankful in our present season of life. Instead of thinking of what your life is lacking, reflect upon all the blessings you do have, such as your family, a loving home, or a fulfilling job. Intersecting Faith & Life: The writer of Hebrews tells us, “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you’” (Hebrews 13:5). While nobody knows with certainty who wrote the Book of Hebrews, we do know it was the Holy Spirit working through them. Therefore, this passage is divinely inspired (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:21). From this passage, we are instructed to keep our lives free from the love of money and to be content with what we have. We should do these things because God has already told us that He will never leave us or forsake us. Since these things are true, we need to practice contentment and also avoid developing a love of money. A love of money or a love of things we don’t have will only lead to a heart of discontent. Reflecting on the truth that God will never leave us or forsake us can help us develop contentment this Thanksgiving season. Even if there is no spouse next to us, or a missing loved one across the table, or even if we’re surrounded by things we wish we had - whatever it may be - God is still with us. He will fill the void and bring our hearts the love, peace, and support that they need. God sees our pain and anguish, and He will bring healing in His proper time. For the present time, we need to lean into Him, practice contentment, and know that if we have Him, we truly do have all things. What are some reasons why you’re struggling with contentment this Thanksgiving? Is there anything you can do to change your heart of want to a heart of contentment? Hebrews 13:5 urges our hearts to be content. What does it mean to you that God will never leave or forsake you? What are some practical steps you can take to foster contentment in your life? Further Reading: Luke 12:15 Philippians 4:11-13 1 Timothy 6:6-8 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Thankfulness isn’t just a seasonal tradition—it’s a spiritual posture rooted deep in Scripture and woven through history. Psalm 100:4 calls us to enter God’s presence with gratitude, a theme that began long before American holidays and continues to shape the way believers respond to God’s goodness today. From Old Testament thank offerings to the Pilgrims’ courageous faith, we’re reminded that gratitude grows strongest in hearts that remember God’s faithfulness through every circumstance. Highlights Biblical thanksgiving began with offerings of gratitude long before modern celebrations. Leviticus and 2 Chronicles reveal how God invited His people to display thankfulness through worship. America’s Thanksgiving tradition is deeply influenced by the Pilgrims’ commitment to biblical truth. Despite tremendous suffering, the Pilgrims lived out 1 Thessalonians 5:18 by giving thanks in all circumstances. Historical accounts show how miraculous their survival truly was—only a fraction lived to see the first feast. The Pilgrims’ perseverance helped lay the foundation for a national day dedicated to thanking God. Leaders like Washington and Lincoln carried forward the tradition of national gratitude to the Lord. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: Cultivating a Heart Full of Thanksgiving By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name”—Psalm 100:4 Offering thanksgiving didn’t begin in America; it began in the Bible, taught to humankind by a loving and gracious God who is deserving and worthy of our gratitude, and to receive thankfulness that comes from hearts truly grateful for all He has done and is still doing in our lives and in our nation. Thanksgiving to God, often associated with food offerings, began in the Bible. As early as Leviticus 7:12, we read how God instructed, “If they offer it as an expression of thankfulness, then along with this thank offering they are to offer thick loaves made without yeast and with olive oil mixed in, thin loaves made without yeast and brushed with oil, and thick loaves of the finest flour well-kneaded and with oil mixed in.” Again, in 2 Chronicles 29:31, the King calls for the people to give thanks. “Then Hezekiah said, ‘You have now dedicated yourselves to the Lord. Come and bring sacrifices and thank offerings to the temple of the Lord.’ So the assembly brought sacrifices and thank offerings, and all whose hearts were willing brought burnt offerings.” America’s Thankfulness Rooted in Biblical Truth Remarkably, Thanksgiving Day in America is rooted in the biblical faith brought and carried to our land through the Pilgrims who courageously escaped Europe’s tightly held religious control to pursue freedom to worship God. Creator and Executive Producer of The Pilgrims documentary, Dr. Jerry Newcombe, follows the Pilgrims from Europe to the New World, documenting their faith and journey to America. The Pilgrims, even in the suffering they endured in Europe and after arriving in America, believed what 1 Thessalonians 5:18 urges, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Newcombe describes the harsh winter leading up to the first 1621 Thanksgiving, marked by illness, cold, and starvation. Of the eighteen women aboard the Mayflower, only four survived. As well, half the married men and ten of the twenty-nine unmarried men died. Children survived better than the adults, with seventeen of the twenty surviving the brutal conditions. Still, very few Pilgrims survived the devastating “starving times” and sickness to participate in the first Thanksgiving, enduring what 2 Corinthians 4:8 describes. “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down but not destroyed.” As well, historian and author of The Treacherous World of the 16th Century & How the Pilgrims Escaped It: The Prequel to America's Freedom, William J. Federer, discusses facts that some may overlook, such as how miraculous it was for the Pilgrims to escape Europe and birth America. “Of the 102 Pilgrims, only 47 survived till spring,” writes Federer, “At one point, only a half dozen were healthy enough to care for the rest.” The Pilgrims Laid the Groundwork for Thanksgiving “Without the Pilgrims, Thanksgiving Day, set aside to thank God,” states Federer, “it may not have ever been established. They laid the groundwork and foundation for America to set aside a holiday to thank God.” Although not officially called Thanksgiving Day at the time, the Pilgrims were able to kick off America’s tradition of giving thanks to God with a three-day feast with the Native Americans. Devoted to a purity of the Gospel, the Pilgrims recognized the importance of thankfulness, even in the most difficult of times, understanding it as a sacrifice to God. As Psalm 116:17 directs, “I will sacrifice a thank offering to You and call on the name of the Lord. “ “Because of them,” writes Newcombe, “we have had 400 years of Thanksgiving in America, and thanks to Presidents Washington (who declared the first national day of Thanksgiving) and Lincoln (who made it a yearly event), we even celebrate it as an annual holiday.” Newcombe, who also serves as Executive Director of Providence Forum, an outreach of Coral Ridge Ministries, shares President George Washington’s declaration for a national day of Thanksgiving, “[I]t is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the Providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor.” Intersecting Faith & Life: Ask God to lead you in cultivating a heart full of thanksgiving. Begin by studying His word, spending time in prayer thanking Him for His faithfulness, and telling others of all He has done in your life. Further Reading:Entering His Gates with Thanksgiving: 5 Ways to Cultivate a Grateful Heart Towards God Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Life is loud—holiday loud, work-notifications loud, “my brain won’t stop” loud. Psalm 23 reminds us that God doesn’t just suggest rest; sometimes He has to make us lie down so our souls can breathe again. In a world addicted to noise, reclaiming quiet becomes an act of trust and a doorway into genuine gratitude. When we intentionally pause—before the inbox, before the scrolling, before the schedule—we begin to uncover a steadier, quieter thankfulness that anchors us in God’s presence. Highlights God often has to “make” us rest because we naturally resist silence. Constant noise—from work, devices, and distraction—can drain the soul. Many of us fill forced downtime with more noise instead of inviting God into the quiet. Silence can feel uncomfortable, but it’s where God restores, steadies, and speaks. Starting with a simple morning gratitude rhythm helps reframe your day. Look for small pockets—commutes, showers, quiet moments—to pray and thank God. Choosing silence creates space for peace, intimacy, and a thankful heart. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: A Heart of Thanks in a Season of NoiseBy Peyton Garland​​ Bible Reading: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.” Psalm 23:1-3 (NKJV) I recognize that most of the Old Testament was written in Hebrew, and most of the New Testament in Greek, so it’s not only safe but wise to assume that our English translation of each word of Scripture isn’t always an exact cultural match. However, I often chuckle at the verb that leads Psalm 23:2: “He makes me to lie down in green pastures…” (emphasis added). I’m quite certain that if Christ didn’t force me to lie down, to take a breath, to drown out the noise, I wouldn’t. Yet, when I push back against His command and allow life’s unfiltered chaos to control me, I become spiritually drained and crawl back to Him in an unhealthy emotional state, begging that He bring steadiness and peace to my loud world. Perhaps you can relate. You want to put down your phone and enjoy a family dinner or your kid’s ballgame, but you’re waiting on several important work emails to come through. You have to stay glued to your screen. Or you want to dedicate a few quiet moments to prayer, but your mind doesn’t know what to do with such empty headspace. Before long, you aren’t concentrated on God, but your mind has wandered to drafting a grocery list, scheduling a dentist appointment, overthinking a previous conversation with a friend, etc. Furthermore, in those moments when God “makes” us take a break, whether due to sickness, weather cancellations, or mandatory R&R from a boss, do we fill these opportunities for heavenly reprieve with shows that we binge all day? Do we stay glued to our social media reels? It’s as though we aren’t sure we can function–or even “rest”– without noise. I daresay that most of us are far too comfortable with noise and distractions. After all, it’s easier to be distracted with surface-level schedules and mindless social media scrolling than to sit in the silence where God can work on our hearts. If silence makes you uneasy and the quiet feels anything but peaceful, especially during the holidays, you aren’t alone. Many of us wrestle with the same anxiousness. However, mutual understanding doesn’t mean we leave one another in this frazzled state. Instead, let’s encourage each other to start with a short, simple act of thankfulness amid the quiet. When you first wake up in the morning, before you get out of bed and allow your cellular notifications to consume your mind, sit in the silence and thank God for three things in your life. This will only take a matter of seconds, but it will begin your day in a quiet atmosphere in which you invite God and His goodness into your life. Once you find a comfortable rhythm of listing three things each morning, push it to five, then ten. Start searching your daily routine for brief pockets of time where you can pray another list of thanksgivings to God, or where you can offer up prayers for wisdom, discernment, and patience. Consider taking the first five minutes of your commute to work to pray for family and friends. Allow yourself the first five minutes of your shower to be a time when you sing praises to God. His presence isn’t hard to access. He is forever available to talk with you. However, you must face your fear of the silence to sit in His grace and open yourself to a posture of thanksgiving in all life’s busyness. Truthfully, the noise won’t relent. It’s not only the hustle and bustle and chaos of the holidays that make us feel trapped in a muffled megaphone, but it’s also the everyday grind that we are subjected to in this modern world. Don’t cave to the chaos, though. Surrender it to God as you create pockets of peace to experience intimacy with your Savior. If you need a breakthrough prayer to begin this reckoning with the silence, start here: Jesus, in today’s world, we are far too familiar with noise. We are consumed and even controlled by the soundbites that engulf our heads and hearts, leaving little room for us to hear your voice. Please grant us the grace to consider our relationship with silence, and help us be courageous enough to open ourselves up to ways we can enter a silent, sacred space to better commune with you. Christ, may we use this quiet time to nurture a heart of gratitude for your unending love and eternal salvation. Amen. Intersecting Faith & Life:Take a few moments to jot down your general weekly/weekend schedule. Find 2-3 times each day that have room for silence. Pick one time slot to begin with and start whispering a simple, peaceful prayer of thanksgiving each day. See where your journey with silence takes you! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Gratitude doesn’t come easily for everyone—especially if life has conditioned you to expect the other shoe to drop. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 calls us to give thanks in all circumstances, not because everything feels good, but because God is faithfully at work in every moment. When negativity feels more natural than gratitude, shifting your perspective becomes a slow, intentional surrender. But as God reshapes the heart, thankfulness becomes less of a struggle and more of a steady rhythm. Highlights Early experiences can shape a pessimistic mindset, but God can retrain our hearts toward gratitude. Gratitude leads to contentment—and contentment frees us from constantly chasing “more.” A simple gratitude journal can refocus your mind on God’s ongoing work, even in small blessings. Positive community helps redirect your perspective toward God’s faithfulness. Jesus modeled thankfulness—even in pain—and invites us to adopt the same posture. Choosing gratitude is a daily decision that transforms the way we interpret trials and blessings. Shifting your viewpoint ultimately reshapes your attitude and nourishes a thankful spirit. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: When Thankfulness Doesn’t Come NaturallyBy: Michelle Lazurek Bible Reading:“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 As a kid, I didn't have it easy. I came from a controlling household, plus I faced several health challenges. Life was not easy, even in my childhood. Even though I enjoyed the simplicity of playing with toys, playing outside, and just enjoying life, I endured other issues that made my childhood less than simplistic. My mother was also a negative person. She often saw the glass as half-empty, rather than half-full. This taught me to be a pessimistic person, focusing on the negative side of things rather than the positive side. If something good came my way, I often wondered when things would soon turn bad. For years after becoming a Christian, I still felt like this way. Because the Christian life has been full of ups and downs, and I've endured my share of trials, it's easy to look on the negative side of things. This viewpoint has caused me to become less grateful and more entitled. As I've matured in my faith, God has taught me that it's essential to be thankful for everything I have. When I'm grateful, I'm content. When I’m content, I'm no longer searching for the perfect life, the simple pleasures, or the luxuries that I feel I deserve. Switching my viewpoint didn't come easily. Because I had been pessimistic and that attitude was deeply ingrained in my mind, it was hard to shake. But I've learned over the years how to make thankfulness a daily activity, even though it doesn't come naturally to me. Here are some ways to adopt a spirit of thankfulness even when it doesn't come naturally: Start a Gratitude Journal One of the easiest ways for me to switch my viewpoint is to start a gratitude journal. Each day, I'm able to write down even just a few things for which I'm thankful. These can be small blessings, such as having clean clothes or a job. It can also be the bigger things that God does, like the miraculous ways in which He works, or the way He heals my body when it's sick. The most important thing I need to remember is that God is constantly at work in my life. It's a matter of whether I choose to see it or not. Keeping a gratitude journal shifts my focus every day to what I should be thankful for and content in my life. Because I'm someone who doesn't enjoy journaling, this is an easy way for me to adopt the habit of journaling, without having to write complete sentences. Use bullet points and write the words regarding the blessing, so you know what it references. At the end of the month, go back and think of all the ways God has blessed you that month. During your prayer time, thank God for all the ways He is working and for all the ways you see His blessings. Surround Yourself with Positive People Because I learned my pessimistic attitude from my mother, it was an attitude easy to adopt, as she was always around. However, when I became a Christian and attended churches in my area, I surrounded myself with positive people. Instead of focusing on the negative trials in their lives, they chose to be grateful to God for all the ways he was working. As I participated in small groups and heard about all the ways God was working in their lives, it became easier for me to adopt that same attitude. Analyze the company you keep. Do you surround yourself with naturally pessimistic people? Be in regular community with those who seek to see the world positively. Adopt the same attitude of seeing how God is working, rather than focusing on all the things He hasn't done. Adopt Jesus’ Attitude Jesus’ attitude was one of thankfulness. Even in his last moments before he was going to be crucified, he chose to break bread with his disciples. Although I'm sure they discussed many things throughout that meal, the Gospels record that Jesus took the bread and cup and gave thanks to God. If Jesus can choose to adopt an attitude of thankfulness even moments before he knew he was going to be crucified and brutally beaten, then so can we. We can adopt the same attitude of gratitude by looking at our trials and seeking to choose joy rather than sorrow. Although it is normal to feel sadness or despair in times of deep spiritual trial, we mustn't stay there. Instead, grieve the loss, but then move on to a spirit of thankfulness. See all the ways God may be sparing you from the situation if the answer to your prayer was no. If you are in a trial, see all the ways God is refining your character through it. By changing your viewpoint, you change your attitude. Change your perspective to one of gratitude, knowing that God is working on your behalf. Choose to think of it this way rather than dwelling upon the negative parts of life. By choosing to focus on the positive aspects of life rather than the negative ones, you can cultivate gratitude even when it doesn't come naturally. Adopt behaviors and surround yourself with people who will help you give thanks in all circumstances. Father, let us be people who give thanks in all we do. Help us understand how you always work in all situations. Let us adopt an attitude of thankfulness, even when our will is bent toward negativity and discontentment. Amen. Intersecting Faith & Life: In what ways do you display your thankfulness in all circumstances? What is one thing you can do to express your gratitude toward the people in your life today? Further Reading:Philippians 4:6 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Thankfulness can feel surprisingly slippery—especially when the holiday meant to celebrate gratitude often leaves us rushing, coordinating, cooking, or collapsing on the couch. Psalm 100:4–5 invites us to slow down and remember why gratitude matters in the first place: God is good, His love endures, and His faithfulness covers every generation. When our hearts return to that truth, thanksgiving becomes more than a holiday feeling—it becomes a posture shaped by God’s presence, not our circumstances. Highlights True gratitude goes deeper than holiday traditions or surface-level appreciation. Thanksgiving can be stressful—travel, expectations, or loneliness—but God steadies our hearts in every situation. Being thankful includes recognizing the blessing of people who want us close during the holidays. Reaching out to someone who’s alone can ignite genuine gratitude in them and in us. A thankful heart grows as we reflect on God’s goodness, salvation, and enduring faithfulness. Gratitude is something to cultivate year-round, not just on one busy Thursday. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: Having Genuine Gratefulness This Thanksgiving By Vivian Bricker Bible Reading: “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” - Psalm 100:4-5 Thanksgiving shouldn't be known as just a day of feasting. Rather, it should be a day dedicated to genuine thankfulness. Due to all the preparations that need to be done, it can sometimes feels like the only thing we are thankful for is when the day is finally over. Depending on your own living situation, Thanksgiving might look like traveling to three different locations to spend time with family, or maybe it looks like spending time at home alone. When we reflect on our own Thanksgiving experiences, we need to consider what it truly means to be thankful. Sure, traveling all weekend for Thanksgiving can feel daunting and stressful, but we have to ask ourselves, “Isn't it worth it to spend time with my loved ones?” For those who don't have extended family and aren't traveling for Thanksgiving, traveling would be something to be thankful for, as it means you have people who care about you and truly want you there for the holiday season. Imagine if you had nowhere to or spend the holiday with, and how lonely that would be. I still acknowledge that spending Thanksgiving on the road can be stressful as well. For many people, they have to travel very long distances or go to multiple places in one day. However, with God, we can still be thankful regardless of our situation. My family and I are close-knit, so we stay together for Thanksgiving. My uncle lived by himself, and every year we would give him a big Thanksgiving meal plate, and my dad would spend time with him since all of his own family had passed away. Sadly, there are many people just like my uncle. Although he is now in Heaven, he spent most of his life alone. If you want a heart of thankfulness this year, try to spend time with a family member or friend who is by themselves. It will mean the world to them, and it might also help you become more thankful for what you have in your own life. The goal for Thanksgiving is to express true thankfulness. Not a thankfulness that is only surface-level, but a true thankfulness that reaches to the inmost parts of our souls. This is a thankfulness that is rooted in God. When we acknowledge the many blessings of God in our lives and the very gift of salvation, we will finally be able to open our hearts to being thankful. Intersecting Faith & Life: The Bible tells us, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations” (Psalm 100:4-5). As this Psalm states, we need to enter the Lord’s courts with praise, give Him thanks, and praise His Name. His love endures forever, His faithfulness continues through all generations, and He is good. By knowing these things and taking them to heart, we will become more grateful for our wonderful Savior and thankfulness will start showing up in our daily lives. Reach out to a loved one who is living alone, or be happy when you have to make the long trip to meet up with family members who live in another state. Allow yourself to be thankful for the beautiful blessings God has placed in your life. Every good gift comes from the Father (James 1:17). Continue to cultivate this thankfulness beyond the Thanksgiving season and hold onto it for the rest of your days. Do you have trouble being thankful on Thanksgiving? What are some ways you can reach out to a loved one this Thanksgiving to help them know they are not alone? Further Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Colossians 3:15 Colossians 4:2 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Contentment is one of the hardest lessons to learn—whether you’re a child circling toys in a catalog or an adult eyeing upgrades and “just one more thing” that promises satisfaction. Philippians 4:12 pulls us back to center, reminding us that peace doesn’t rise and fall with our circumstances. Paul learned to be steady in seasons of plenty and seasons of lack because his confidence was rooted in Christ, not conditions. When we anchor our joy in the unchanging character of God, we discover the quiet strength that carries us through both abundance and need. Highlights Contentment and happiness aren’t the same—one depends on circumstances, the other doesn’t. Paul learned contentment through every season: need, abundance, hunger, and fullness. Lasting peace is found in Christ, not in possessions, upgrades, or life improvements. Our hearts easily drift toward “more,” making contentment a daily, intentional choice. Philippians 4:13 reveals the true secret: Christ’s strength empowers us to be faithful in any situation. Even Paul, writing from captivity and suffering, modeled unwavering trust in God. Want and plenty both test our faith—but both can draw us closer to God when we rely on Him. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: Faithful in Plenty, Faithful in Want By: Laura Bailey Bible Reading: “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” - Philippians 4:12 NIV “Give me! It’s my turn to look!” my youngest daughter screamed as she ripped the latest Christmas catalog out of my middle daughter’s hands. We’d received four toy books this week, the glossy pages filled with the latest gadgets, and my daughters were eager to circle the items they’d had their eyes on all year and add a few more things to their lists.“I think I will hold onto this,” I said as I tucked the book underneath my arm. “You girls already have so much, how could you possibly find anything else you want?” My daughters turned to each other in an unspoken agreement that their mother was, in fact, crazy. They could never have “enough,” there was always something more to bring them greater joy. \ It is my responsibility as a parent to teach my girls about contentment, gratitude for what they have, and the dangers of placing our happiness in things. Don’t worry, I did address the heart issue with my littles. However, at thirty years their senior, I still struggle with the same things. No, it’s not the lure of a new doll that promises to boost my morale; instead, it’s looking forward to a raise, taking a trip, or upgrading the kitchen appliances. How often do I struggle to be faithful in plenty and faithful in want? Sadly, it is still a struggle. Paul, in his letter to the Christians at Philippi, encourages them to be content and faithful to what God has called them to, in all circumstances. Notice that Paul, in our key verse, uses the word content and not happy. Often, we use those words interchangeably, and while they are similar, they have slightly different meanings. Happiness, a state of euphoria, is dependent on circumstances, while contentment is a state of peace or satisfaction independent of circumstances. Paul desired that his ancient readers and today’s believers understand that peace and joy aren’t rooted in our circumstances but in our relationship with Christ. Therefore, contentment and choosing to be faithful to God’s purpose are daily choices. Often, my feelings dictate my soul's contentment. Paul understood this struggle. The verse following Paul’s “secret,” to contentment, tells us how he was able to, even in the worst of circumstances, he can stay faithful ( remember, Paul is writing this letter from house arrest, and was beaten, flogged, and severely injured for the gospel). Philippians 4:13 tells us, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Paul kept his faith even in the most dire of circumstances because God was with him, strengthened him, and gave him peace and joy through the work of the Holy Spirit in Paul’s life. The key to lasting happiness and peace isn’t found in a temporary world but in an everlasting God. Paul understood how easily we get discouraged, allowing the disappointments of this world to overcome us, rob us of our peace, steal our joy, and undermine our faith. But in our weakest moments, we must cry out to God, asking Him to give us the strength to “count it all joy” (James 1:2-4). Once my girls had settled down, I brought out the magazine and shared with them that I, too, can get sidetracked and distracted by all the shiny things this world offers. It’s not wrong to want a new pair of shoes, or a new game, or even to have a toy chest overflowing with playthings. However, we must guard our hearts against the proclivity to find contentment in our circumstances, cash flow, or STUFF. The “not-so secret” to be faithful in plenty and little, is to place our trust in the One Who is the Provider of it all. Intersecting Faith & Life: Next time you are tempted to measure your happiness by the temporary, take a minute to meditate on our key verse. Commit the verse to memory, or write it down on a sticky note as a reminder that we can find contentment in Christ, not our circumstances.Further Reading:James 1:2-8 A Prayer to Enjoy Each Season Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

True gratitude is more than a warm feeling—it’s a God-designed response that reshapes how we see Him, ourselves, and the people around us. Scripture shows that real thankfulness flows from the heart, is rooted in God’s Word, and grows stronger in every circumstance. When we recognize gratitude as a divine gift rather than a human habit, we begin to see how it transforms our faith, our relationships, and our daily mindset. Highlights Gratitude begins in the heart and naturally overflows into worship (Psalm 9:1). Scripture calls us to give thanks in all circumstances—not just the pleasant ones (1 Thessalonians 5:18). True gratitude doesn’t pick favorites; it thanks God for everything, trusting His goodness (Ephesians 5:20). We thank Jesus for His strength, His calling, and His constant work in our lives (1 Timothy 1:12). Genuine gratitude includes thanking God for fellow believers who walk beside us (Colossians 1:3). Remembering God’s past deeds fuels present praise and future confidence (Psalm 9:1). Gratitude celebrates the grace God pours out on others (1 Corinthians 1:4). We give thanks for the faith growing in believers around the world (Romans 1:8). Gratitude honors the love God cultivates in His people (Ephesians 1:15–16). Remembering others in prayer is itself an act of gratitude (Philippians 1:3). Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: What the Bible Teaches about True Gratitude By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.” - 1 Thessalonians 2:13 In looking to learn about gratitude, the Bible is our teacher, with God being the author and creator of gratitude. It isn’t a human invention but a God-given response that rises up within us because He created us to express gratitude to Him. In learning to thank Him, it’s where thankfulness spills over to expressing gratitude to those we love and even strangers we interact with on a daily basis. Gratitude isn’t by any means a product of human nature or our fallen world, but rather a divine gift from God above who stirs it up deep within our hearts. Throughout the Bible, God encourages us to give thanks and to show true gratitude. The following are ten true characteristics the Bible teaches about true gratitude. True biblical gratitude comes from the heart. If anyone knew how to express gratitude to God, it’s David. Whether shepherd boy or king, his heart seemed to overflow with it. David teaches us that gratitude is a heart issue, writing in Psalm 9:1, “I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” True biblical gratitude is for all circumstances. Gratitude has no boundaries, meaning it isn’t reserved for happy times only, which the Apostle Paul knew all too well, experiencing many circumstances in his life, difficult ones. So, if anyone knew how to give thanks in all circumstances, it was him. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, he shares his wisdom, writing, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” True biblical gratitude is for everything. Whether good, bad, or ugly, the Bible teaches that true gratitude makes no exceptions in life. No matter if life is empty or full, we’re called to give thanks to God, focusing on Him and not what’s going on in our lives. As Ephesians 5:20 urges, “Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” True biblical gratitude is given to Jesus for all He does for us. For all the benefits and blessings we receive from Christ Jesus, the Bible teaches us to give thanks. Paul models how in 1 Timothy 1:12, “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that He considered me trustworthy, appointing me to His service.” True biblical gratitude thanks the Father for fellow believers. True gratitude thanks God for our brothers and sisters in Christ, as Colossians 1:3 encourages. “We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you.” True biblical gratitude remembers God’s wonderful deeds. In Psalm 9:1, David points out the importance of remembering and telling others every wonderful deed God has performed. True biblical gratitude includes thanking God for the grace He gives to others. As 1 Corinthians 1:4 encourages us, “I always thank my God for you because of His grace given to you in Christ Jesus.” True biblical gratitude offers thanks for the faith of others. Paul teaches us how true gratitude thanks God for the faith He gives to those around us, as he wrote in Romans 1:8. “First, “I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world.” True biblical gratitude honors love in others. Paul, again, in Ephesians 1:15-16 explains, “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.” True biblical gratitude is expressed in remembering others. As Philippians 1:3 reminds us to give thanks in remembering others. “I thank my God every time I remember you.” Intersecting Faith & Life: Our best teacher when it comes to learning about true gratitude is found in the Bible. As the author of gratitude, no one knows or can teach us more about it than God. He is our authority on how, when, where, and why to express it. Further Reading:Cultivating Thankfulness Each and Every Day of the Year Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Desire is part of being human—but Psalm 73:25 reminds us that nothing on earth can satisfy us the way God does. When our plans stall, doors close, or God simply says “not yet,” it’s easy to feel the sting of disappointment. Yet in those very moments, He invites us to rediscover a deeper truth: He is enough. The longings we carry—relationships, opportunities, fulfillment—are not wrong, but they are never meant to replace the One who satisfies the soul. When we release our grip on what we think we need, we often discover that God has already given us everything essential for life, peace, and joy. Highlights Our desires are real, but they can quietly take priority over God without us realizing it. God’s “no” or “not yet” often shapes our character more than His “yes.” Seasons of lack can reveal how fully God satisfies the weary and longing heart (Psalm 107:9). Blessings are gifts, not guarantees—and never substitutes for intimacy with God. Contentment grows when we trust that God withholds nothing we truly need (Psalm 23:1). God is unchanging—faithful in abundance and faithful in scarcity (Malachi 3:6, Hebrews 13:8). Choosing gratitude over discontent quiets fear and centers our hearts on His goodness. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: God Is Everything We Truly Need By Hannah Benson Bible Reading: “Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.” - Psalm 73:25 ESV. We know that truly, there is no one in heaven that we have but God Himself, and none on earth that we ought to desire besides Him, but that is SO much easier said than done. If you’re anything like me, then there are probably so many desires tucked away in the secret corners of your heart. Hopes and dreams that you treasure in your heart like Mary. What should we do when God says “no”? When God doesn’t give us everything we ask for? How can we truly say with a heart full of faith, “there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you,” when there are other things we want as well? Think about it. What is something you long for? Perhaps a child. A spouse. A new job. About a year ago, the Lord really impressed on my heart a time in my life where every “no” from Him meant to grow and cultivate me into His image felt like a devastating blow to my plans. During one of my moments of discontentment, the Lord whispered to my weary heart, “Am I enough for you?” His words, soft and gentle yet far from condescending, brought an instant prick of conviction to my heart. When did God stop being enough for me? Of course, I thought He was enough. If someone were to ask me if He were enough, I would’ve said yes and thought I was being honest. But when did I start putting things I wanted above God? When did I start seeing the glass as half-empty instead of counting my blessings? I remember moments in my life where there were things I deeply desired - and didn’t have. Friendships are an open door to serve in media ministry, among others. In those seasons of “lack”, God taught me that I really had everything I needed. I may have desired good things, and it didn’t mean God didn’t want to eventually bless me with those things. (After all, God loves to give good gifts to His children). But God wanted to show me that He was enough for my weary soul. I didn’t need a specific job or to serve on a particular project (although that would be nice). I didn’t need to have specific friendships (although I would appreciate them if the Lord chose to bless me with them). As much as I deeply desired those gifts, the truth is, I didn’t “need” any of it. Anything God chooses to bless me with is still His and is a gift. It’s not for my own selfish gain, either, but a tool to further His Kingdom for His glory. “For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things” (Psalm 107:9 ESV). Intersecting Faith & Life: Dear friend, God will certainly bless you with good things. It may not look exactly like you’d thought, but it will be good. We are reassured that the Lord doesn’t change (Malachi 3:6) and again in Hebrews 13:8 (ESV) when the author writes to the Hebrews the promise that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” In our highest moments, when we’re successful, rich, and have everything we could ever want, God is good. But if God never changes, then the opposite is true, too. In our lowest moments, when we are barely making ends meet, and when we’re waiting for a miracle that we’re not even sure will come, God is still good. He loves us and will overflow our cup with His love, comfort, mercy, and grace, riches that far surpass any this world could give. I’ve been on both sides. There are times when I wrestle with a cup that feels as if it’s half-empty. I also know what it’s like to have that same glass overflowing with the love of the Lord. We can either choose to be discontented and experience growing dissatisfaction (and then nothing will ever satisfy, not even if we receive the very thing which we want). Or we can choose to trust that God has given us everything we need (2 Peter 1:3, Philippians 4:19, Psalm 23:1). It is in those moments I find my heart quiets, anxiety stills, and fear flees. And I come to realize that I’ll be okay even if I don’t get what I want because God will not withhold anything I need. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Sharing stories of God’s goodness isn’t bragging—it’s obedience. Psalm 9:1 calls us to give thanks with our whole hearts and boldly speak about the wonderful things God has done. In a world filled with criticism, division, and constant noise, our testimonies become powerful reminders that God is still active, still providing, and still working in the lives of His people. Gratitude grows when we speak it out loud, and joy follows when we point everything back to Him. Highlights Testimonies strengthen faith—ours and the faith of those who hear them (Psalm 9:1). Sharing God’s goodness publicly isn’t boasting when the glory goes to Him. Gratitude helps guard our hearts against negativity, comparison, and discouragement. A thankful posture begins with honest self-reflection and, when needed, confession. Blessings—big or small—become fuel for worship when we acknowledge God as their source. Speaking about God’s deeds invites both believers and non-believers to notice His presence. Shifting our mindset from complaint to praise reshapes our spiritual outlook and our witness. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: Tell of God’s Wonderful DeedsBy: Michelle Lazurek Bible Reading:“I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” — Psalm 9:1 A few months ago, I arranged a meeting with a publisher for two of my clients. Within an hour, we secured two book contracts for them. We were thrilled! Before the publisher ended the call, I asked if she could stay on for a few more minutes. I also had a book I wanted to pitch to them, and by God's grace, I had secured a contract for myself! I wanted to share God’s goodness, so I posted on social media. I couldn’t wait to share about his goodness at that moment. I aimed for it to be a testimony to others struggling to get a contract, letting them know that even though this book had been sitting on my laptop for years, God had finally found a place for it. Although some people later told me that I was bragging about my accomplishments, I truly took it as an opportunity to acknowledge God's goodness. We are called to share what God has done in our lives. In this chaotic world we live in, it's easy to hear criticism on social media and in various parts of our lives. What we need more of are testimonies of how God is moving in and through us. The above verse reminds us that we are to tell of God's wondrous deeds. This is an excellent way for us to keep an attitude of gratitude, especially as we approach the holidays. With all the political posts and division plaguing our country, we need to be people who tell of God's good deeds, not the horrible things we wish we could fix. Take a moment and analyze your life. Are you someone who often tells of God's wondrous deeds? Does this help you keep an attitude of gratitude? Do you find yourself complaining more than rejoicing? Although keeping a thankful attitude can be difficult, it is important to maintain it each day. It may be as simple as counting your blessings, even the ones you take for granted. Other times, it might involve making a grand gesture for someone as an act of kindness to show them Christ’s love in tangible ways. Regardless of the way you choose, tell of God's wondrous deeds. Brag on the Lord. Give him credit for everything in your life. Don't let anything get in the way of you celebrating all that God has done. Have you found that difficult? Analyze your heart. Do you have unconfessed sin or another area of your life that might be hindering you from truly rejoicing in the Lord? Go to Him and confess your sin. Afterwards, take a few moments to get out a blank journal and start writing down your blessings. This will transform your attitude as quickly as possible. Additionally, if you find yourself taking credit for things happening in your life instead of giving credit to God, it's likely your attitude is wrong. Repent of this behavior. Know that God is in control of all things in your life. Everything good you have in your life comes from him. The quicker you can adopt this perspective, the quicker you can change your attitude and pivot it to giving God all the glory he deserves. Vow to tell people of all the wondrous deeds he has done. Take a week and post on social media the great things God has done. Be in tune with the spirit and be on the lookout for all the ways God is working in your life. Be sure to tell others, both through social media and in person, all the things God has done. Do this with believers and non-believers, and you may find that non-believers are attracted to your example. As Christians, we are known more for what we are against rather than what we are for. Let us change our perspective so that people forget about us and always remember the Lord. Father, let us be people who tell of your wondrous deeds. Let us find various ways to celebrate all the things that you are doing. Let us give you all the praise and glory you deserve in multiple ways every day. Amen. Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you find yourself rejoicing or complaining about your life? In what ways can you change your attitude today? Further Reading:Philippians 4:4 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.