The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

Grief can feel like being trapped in a dark cave—isolated, disoriented, and overwhelmed. But just as Jesus called Lazarus out of his tomb, He calls you to step out of your own cave of sorrow and into the light of hope. This episode explores how Jesus understands your pain, walks with you through it, and gently leads you toward healing and new life. 📌 What You’ll Learn (Key Takeaways): Why grief can feel like being swallowed by darkness and isolation How Jesus compassionately meets us in our pain without dismissing it The powerful story of Lazarus and what it teaches about hope after loss Why stepping forward in healing often requires help and patience Practical ways to begin moving out of grief and into life again 💬 Join the Conversation:Have you experienced grief that felt like a cave you couldn’t escape? How has Jesus helped you take steps toward healing? Share your story with #ComeOutOfYourCave and tag @LifeaudioNetwork. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Come Out of Your Cave By: Whitney Hopler “Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance.” – John 11:38, NIV Inside a cave at Mammoth Cave National Park, a park ranger warned our tour group that we would become disoriented when she turned off her flashlight. Then, when we said we were ready, she turned it off and complete darkness descended on us. It was disorienting! The darkness inside the cave was so strong that we couldn’t see anything else. Even our own hands in front of our faces seemed like they weren’t really there, because we didn’t have any light to see them. Darkness seemed like it was swallowing us, until the ranger turned her flashlight back on, and we all breathed sighs of relief. Grief is like a cave. In this fallen world, we all lose someone or something important to us – through death, the end of a relationship, a job loss, a dream that doesn’t come true, or another kind of painful loss. Grieving can make us feel like we’re trapped in darkness. We may feel like there’s no way out of our caves, because it seems like hope has been buried with what we lost. But Jesus, the Light of the World, never wants us to stay in darkness. Jesus understands our pain, but he also offers us the help we need to move forward from it. If you’re grieving, Jesus calls you to come out of your spiritual cave, just as he raised his friend Lazarus to come out of a physical cave into a new life of hope. In John chapter 11, Jesus arrives at Lazarus’ tomb. The people around him are crying. Even Jesus is crying. Jesus understands the pain of loss, and he doesn’t dismiss your grief. But Jesus also doesn’t leave you there. As Jesus is moved with deep compassion, he calls for the stone to be removed from the cave's entrance. Then Jesus calls Lazarus out of the tomb and back to life! This wonderful story shows that Jesus meets you in your grief, but he doesn’t want you to remain stuck in it. Jesus cries along with you, but he also speaks life into your darkness. If grief is leading you to withdraw from living your life fully, to close yourself off from other people, or to lose hope for the future, you need to come out of your cave. Jesus stands outside your cave, calling you forward. Jesus isn’t asking you to ignore your pain and pretend that everything is fine in your life. But he is asking you to trust that God still has more for you beyond your suffering. Jesus calls Lazarus to step out of the tomb, but notice that Lazarus doesn’t walk out fully restored on his own. He’s still wrapped in grave clothes that he needs help taking off. Sometimes, even after you step forward, you need help removing something that binds you, like sadness or anxiety that clings to you. When you feel stuck in your grief, you can turn to Jesus for the help you need to heal. Jesus will help you remove your grave clothes, so you won’t be bound by grief any longer. So, if you’re grieving, you can rest assured that Jesus understands. Jesus cares about you and is moved by your pain, just as he was at Lazarus’ tomb. But Jesus also has the power to help you walk out of darkness and into the light of hope. He calls you to step forward and to trust him. Jesus is patient, and he stands outside your cave, waiting for you to take steps toward him. One of those steps can be simply saying a prayer, asking Jesus to help you heal. Then Jesus will lead you to take other steps in your healing journey, such as talking to a friend or counselor about your grief and opening your heart to hope again. Jesus won’t rush your healing, but he does call you forward. Will you trust Jesus to roll away the stone from your cave? Will you come out and start walking out of the darkness of despair and into the light of hope? Jesus is waiting to help you. Intersecting Faith and Life As you consider how to find hope when you’re grieving, reflect on these questions: In what ways does grief feel like a cave in your life? How does knowing that Jesus cried with grief at Lazarus’s tomb bring you comfort? What are some “stones” – some heavy burdens – that might be keeping you stuck in grief? How can you give your burdens to Jesus and trust him to help you move forward in hope? What is one step you can take today to come out of your cave and embrace life again? Further Reading Psalm 34:18 Isaiah 41:10 Matthew 11:28 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Revelation 21:4 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever felt like one of those stubborn sheep—stuck, confused, and not quite sure which way to go? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re diving into the comfort and power of Psalm 23 and what it truly means that Jesus is our Good Shepherd. Even when we resist or wander, His love pursues us, protects us, and reminds us: in Him, we lack nothing. 📌 What You’ll Learn (Key Takeaways): Why Scripture often compares us to sheep—and what that reveals about our nature How Jesus leads, protects, and provides as our Good Shepherd What Psalm 23 teaches us about God’s presence in both peace and hardship How to release control and rest in the safety of God’s guidance Why we can confidently say we lack nothing when we belong to Christ 💬 Join the Conversation:Can you relate to feeling like a wandering sheep? How has Jesus shown up as your Shepherd in difficult moments? Share your thoughts using #GoodShepherdGrace and tag @LifeaudioNetwork. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Jesus Is Our Good Shepherd By Vivian Bricker “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing” (Psalm 23:1). I went on a mission internship during college for my Intercultural Studies minor, and while I was there, I learned much about the culture, people, and beliefs of the country I was now calling my temporary home. However, one thing that stuck out to me the most in the United Kingdom was the sheep. Anywhere we would go, there would be sheep. Beside the highway, at parks, and randomly roaming along the hills, I would spot sheep—and they were not very smart. One of the couples from the church I was staying with took me to Dartmoor Park, where sheep were everywhere. After hiking for a few hours and learning about Dartmoor, I was fascinated with the entire area. It was beautiful, so green, and so calming. That was until it was time to go. When we were driving out of the park, a few sheep blocked the exit. After blowing the horn a few times and motioning for the sheep to move, we were met with a “baa.” After a few more minutes of this, with the car horn alternating with “baa” from the sheep, I started thinking to myself, “How can they be so dumb? Why don’t they just move?” We could have run the sheep over, but they were stubborn and were not moving anywhere soon. Whenever I reflect on this story, I think about how many times God refers to us as sheep (Psalm 95:7, 100:3). Are we really as bad as the sheep I saw in England? The answer is yes. We are stubborn and don’t want to change our ways, even if that means we might get run over. However, God doesn’t leave us in our stubbornness, unrepentance, and rebellion. Instead, He picks us up, stands beside us, and meets us where we are. He won’t allow the car to come run us over. He is our Good Shepherd and will protect us from all harm. If a human shepherd cares so much about their sheep, how much more will Jesus care about us? His love is unconditional and never-changing, which means He will always be there for us, keep us strong, and keep us safe. At times, we may feel that we are far from His protection and goodness, but He is always with us. Even when we feel alone, He is right beside us. Despite our stubborn and unwilling hearts, Jesus still loves us. This love is so great that He left Heaven to be born into the world, live a sinless life, and die for the world's sins (John 3:16-17). We never need to doubt Jesus’ love for us or His protection, goodness, or kindness. Intersecting Faith & Life: Psalm 23 is the classical psalm that highlights Jesus as our Good Shepherd. Psalm 23:1 says, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” While this psalm contains many other important teachings, we are focusing on how Jesus is our Shepherd, and this truth means we lack nothing. Having Jesus as our Shepherd means we have the greatest protection from our Savior and Lord. Similar to how a shepherd fights back against wolves and other creatures to protect his sheep, Jesus will protect us from evil. Maybe this won’t be physical wolves or other predators, but He will protect us from every evil attack (2 Timothy 4:18). We can trust in the Lord and find solace in His goodness. Times can feel difficult right now, but Jesus is still in control and will forever be the true King. All our anxiety, worry, and trouble must be given to Him. We lack nothing because we belong to Jesus. Whatever is bringing our hearts trouble today, we can give it all to Jesus, who will uphold us. Even when we feel we lack something physical or spiritual, we need to remember that in Christ, we lack nothing. He has blessed us with everything we need. Do you currently relate to sheep? Have you been stubborn or unwilling to listen to God? The Lord is our Good Shepherd. How did this help you see the world in a different light? Because of Jesus, we lack nothing. What does this mean to you? Further Reading: Proverbs 3:5-6 Isaiah 41:10 Colossians 2:10 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When the morning darkness weighs heavy and your soul feels distant from joy, Psalm 42 offers a sacred strategy: remember. In this episode, we dive into what it means to stir up your soul with truth when your heart feels downcast. From spiritual amnesia to determined hope, you'll discover how recalling God's past faithfulness can ignite light in your present darkness—and anchor you in unshakeable peace. What You’ll Learn (Key Takeaways): Why spiritual discouragement often greets us in the morning—and how to face it How to follow the psalmist’s example of confronting feelings with truth The power of remembering God's past faithfulness in dark moments Practical ways to stir your soul toward praise and hope Why praising God in advance shifts your mindset and renews your strength 💬 Join the Conversation:Do you ever wake up feeling spiritually heavy or stuck in darkness? How do you remind yourself of God’s truth in those moments? Share your strategies using #StirUpYourSoul and tag @LifeaudioNetwork. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Stir Up Your Soul By Megan J. Conner Each morning, I stumble out of bed in total darkness. I am an early riser so most mornings I am up well before sunrise. This routine is not a natural tendency, rather, it is a proactive choice to rouse my soul out of darkness and into the light. Even when I fall asleep the night before with peaceful assurance and confidence of faith, somehow, my heart greets the new day with apprehension and even dread. It’s almost as if the natural darkness shrouds my spirit and snuffs out my ability to recall the light. Why is that? Why is darkness so much easier to accept than the promise of light? Why are our minds and hearts so easily consumed by negative projections of bleakness rather than a fixation on optimistic anticipation? When we read through today’s scripture in Psalm 42, we can see this is not a new experience for believers. “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me?” Here, the author is clearly dealing with spiritual angst and questions why there is such a disconnect between the mind and the heart. Why must they be at conflict with one another? He knows the truth of God’s goodness, but his heart struggles to follow suit. Though at war with one another, the psalmist doesn’t crumble in defeat. He does not allow his feelings to dictate truth. Instead, he boldly places his confidence in what is unseen rather than what is seen. “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God,” (Ps. 42:5, NIV). Perhaps you find yourself greeting the day with this same apprehension. How can you press through the fog of angst and beckon your soul to look beyond the darkness? You make a choice - an intentional, determined choice to believe the truth over your emotions and circumstances. Like the psalmist, we can force ourselves to remember that which night has caused us to forget. “These things I remember,as I pour out my soul:how I would go with the throngand lead them in procession to the house of Godwith glad shouts and songs of praise,a multitude keeping festival.” v. 4 (ESV) Though his soul is weary and downcast at this specific moment, the author recalls seasons when God’s nearness and goodness were evident and joy came easily. He also reminds himself of the Lord’s presence and work. “My soul is cast down within me;therefore I remember youfrom the land of Jordan and of Hermon,from Mount Mizar.” v. 6 (ESV) With each recollection, the battle for peace, assurance, and hope is won. “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. If you find yourself greeting today in darkness, join me as we declare what we know to be true rather than what we see before us. Before we know it, that first glimmer of sunrise will break through the darkness. We will see light. We will feel light. Then, we will take that first deep breath and our souls will soar. We will yet praise Him! This is the day the Lord has made. We WILL rejoice and be glad in it (Ps. 118:24) Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you greet the day with joy or apprehension? Are there times when you feel as if you are surrounded by darkness and cannot see the light? If so, are you able to identify why your soul is downcast? Perhaps there are hurts or hardships that are weighing you down with doubt or confusion. Like the psalmist in our passage today, look back through your life and recall moments where you clearly saw God’s goodness and provision at work. Write down each one in a journal or in your notes on your phone. Then, find a few key scriptures that remind you of God’s truths and promises to combat the doubts, fears, or worries you are facing. The Bible says: “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart,” (Heb. 4:12, NIV). The truth of God’s Word, and the evidence of His work in your life are the keys to peace and freedom from the lies of darkness. Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12). Intentionally choose to step into His light today. Choose to praise Him. Further Reading: Ps. 42 John 8:12 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Stillness can feel counterintuitive in a world that glorifies hustle, urgency, and doing more. But in this episode, we explore what it really means to be still before God—and why it’s not about inactivity but about intentional trust. When the world shakes, when life feels loud, Psalm 46:10 invites us to pause and remember who's really in control. Learn how stillness can become your superpower in chaos. 📌 What You’ll Learn (Key Takeaways): Why “being still” isn’t passive but a powerful act of trust What Psalm 46 reveals about God’s strength and presence The difference between helping and trying to fix everything Practical ways to create moments of stillness in daily life How knowing God more deeply makes it easier to rest in Him 💬 Join the Conversation:What does being still before God look like in your life right now? How have you seen Him show up in the quiet moments? Share your thoughts using #StillBeforeGod and tag @LifeaudioNetwork. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: The Importance of “Being Still” Before God By Sarah Frazer Bible Reading: “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” Psalm 46:10 (NKJV) Devotional Be still! Stop moving! The wiggling toddler had a hard time keeping her body from sliding out of the pew into the floor. The pastor’s voice echoed from the pulpit, but it was hard to concentrate because of the ball of energy next to me. Five kids and several years later, I think back on those times when I had my children in church before they could sit still. It took time, patience, consistency, and maybe a few hundred packs of fruit snacks, but eventually they learned to be still in church. Now, I look down the pew and see all of my sweet children all but grown, sitting quietly, a few even taking notes. In front of me is a mom of a toddler and as she whispers into his ear and offers a sucker and some coloring pages, I’m reminded that being still is hard for a toddler. But then, it is hard for us as adults to sometimes be still as well. In Psalm 46 we read some startling and unnerving circumstances surrounding the author. Phrases like “waters roar…mountains shake…nations rage…” certainly relate to the times we are in today. I don’t know about you, but when things are chaotic, I don’t want to just stand there - I want to do something. Every time my children would fight, I would jump in to intervene. If I saw a need at church, I was the first to put my name on the list to help. If someone was in a crisis, I would lay awake trying to think of ways to serve them. Psalm 46 reminds me that it isn’t my job to fix everything, but also, it is important that I don’t forget who is ultimately in charge. There are times we should step in and help, or rush to fix a crisis. God has called us to be the “hands and feet” of Jesus, love one another, and bear each other’s burdens. Being still before God is more than just not acting, it is recognizing and resting in who God is. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know…” Knowing is remembering and learning. What do you know about God? What do you remember God doing in the past? In the first part of the psalm we see the author remembering and calling out truth about God. God is our refuge, strength, and help. God has never stopped being on the throne, even if our world feels out of control and unsettling. Practically speaking, what does this look like to “be still” before God? I think it means we spend time in prayer and reading His Word. Learning and studying about God helps us to know and trust Him. The more we know about God the easier it is to trust Him. The more we pray and read God’s Word the more our hearts learn how to be still before God. The psalmist has one phrase in this chapter that highlights a beautiful truth about God. He repeats this phrase, so we know it is a key to the theme of the chapter. The phrase is found in verse seven and verse ten. “The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah” The last word, “Selah” means to pause and reflect, again a reminder that this verse is so important! How is the author of Psalm 46 able to “be still” before God? He recognizes that God is both personal and powerful. Look at the words in Psalm 46:7 and 10. God is described as a “Lord of Hosts” and “the God of Jacob.” The first description of God reveals a powerful God who is able to control and dispatch an army of angels. The second is a personal God of a man who really lived - Jacob! God is both a refuge and He is with us. The first action shows God’s strength while the other a declaration of God’s intimacy with us. As we ponder how God is in control and very personal at the same time our hearts can know true rest. As we meditate on God’s word in both prayer and reading His word, we will find so much comfort and peace. This is how we rest our hearts and minds on God. This is the importance of being still before God. When we stop striving, working, and worrying, we are able to have peace. We can go to bed* knowing God has the ultimately power to keep us safe and He deeply loves and cares for us. *(I was wondering if we could link to my podcast here: sarahefrazer.com/podcast) Intersecting Faith & Life: What keeps you awake at night? What do you have that lays heavy on your heart? How can you go to God in prayer and read His word in order to have peace today Further Reading: Psalm 46 Romans 8 Hebrews 12:1-2 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Ever miss something right in front of you—like your keys… or God's hand at work? In today’s devotional, Whitney Hopler challenges us to slow down, tune in, and truly notice the presence of God in our daily lives. Whether it’s a squirrel in the woods or a verse that lands differently, God is constantly speaking—we just need to pay attention. If you’re feeling spiritually distracted or disconnected, this is your reminder to re-engage your senses and your soul. 📌 What You’ll Learn (Key Takeaways): Why spiritual awareness takes more than just physical sight or sound How daily distractions might be blocking your view of God's work Simple habits to help you notice God’s presence (hello, “wonder walks”!) The importance of being fully present in a fast-paced world Practical steps to tune into the wonder God is already showing you 💬 Join the Conversation:Can you remember a time when God was at work in your life and you didn’t realize it until later? What helped you finally see it? What is something simple you saw or heard today that reminded you of God’s presence? Share with us @LifeaudioNetwork 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Are You Paying Attention? By: Whitney Hopler “Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear?...” – Mark 8:18, NIV In Mammoth Cave National Park, I was looking forward to seeing some wildlife. So, while hiking with a park ranger and a group, I stayed alert to what was happening in the woods around me. After about an hour on the trail, I finally noticed an animal nearby: a squirrel. It was the same type of squirrel I often saw in my own backyard at home. When a squirrel appeared in my backyard, I usually barely noticed it. But when I spotted that squirrel in the park, I was thrilled! Reflecting on my wildlife encounter, I wondered why I’d been so excited by something so familiar to me. It was simply that I had decided to pay close attention to what I was experiencing. Have you ever looked at something and still missed it? Maybe you walked into a room to pick up your keys and couldn’t find them, even though they were right in front of you in a pile of stuff on a table. Or maybe someone was talking to you, but your mind was somewhere else. So, you heard them, but you weren’t really listening and couldn’t repeat what they told you. In Mark 8:18, Jesus asks his disciples: “Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear?” Jesus wasn’t just talking about physical sight and sound; he was talking about spiritual awareness. The disciples had just witnessed Jesus perform miracles, such as feeding thousands of people with just a few fish and loaves of bread. Yet still, they were missing something important that Jesus was trying to teach them. They were watching, but not seeing. They were hearing, but not understanding. We can be like that too. We live in a world that’s full of glimpses of God’s wonderful work around us. God shows us evidence of his wonder every day, through answered prayers, acts of kindness that show his love in action, nature that reflects his creativity, and much more. But how often do we rush through the day without noticing? If we rush from one task to another without really paying attention, we can miss out on God’s wonder, even though it’s all around us. Just as Jesus points out in Mark 8:18, we have eyes that are meant for seeing and ears that are meant for hearing. We can only do so well when we’re paying attention. That involves being fully present. When we’re paying full attention, we start to notice all sorts of wonder we could otherwise overlook, such as a child’s laughter, a moving piece of music, or a Bible verse that suddenly speaks directly to our situation. Jesus wants you to discover and fully enjoy the wonder he is constantly bringing into your life. Here are some practical ways you can pay better attention and not miss out on what God is doing: Start your day with silent prayer. Before checking your phone or jumping into your to-do list, sit quietly for a few minutes and communicate with God. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you see and hear him clearly throughout your day. Take “wonder walks.” Go outside without any devices, and take a walk where you intentionally search for something around you that inspires you with awe. If you’re really paying attention, you’re sure to find something that shows you God’s wonder. Take wonder breaks during each day to ask God to show you something new. This simple question helps keep your heart and mind open. Pursue lifelong learning as much as you can. As you learn something new, reflect on what it teaches you about God’s love and wisdom. Our world is full of wonder waiting to be discovered. You won’t miss it if you see with fresh eyes and listen with careful attention. So, right now, are you paying attention? Intersecting Faith and Life As you consider how important it is to pay attention to the wonder of God’s work in your life, reflect on these questions: Can you remember a time when God was at work in your life and you didn’t realize it until later? What helped you finally see it? What are some distractions that often keep you from noticing God’s presence? How can you practice being more present in your daily routine? What is something simple you saw or heard today that reminded you of God’s presence? How can you create space in your day to listen more closely to what God might be saying? Further Reading Matthew 13:16 Proverbs 20:12 Romans 1:20 Psalm 65:8 Psalm 46:10 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In a world that idolizes youth, success, and status, this episode reminds us that God sees far beyond appearances—He looks at the heart. Whether you're feeling overlooked due to age, forgotten in your circumstances, or unseen in your efforts, take comfort in this truth: God values what the world often ignores. Discover how to align your view of others—and yourself—with God’s heart-first perspective. What You’ll Learn (Key Takeaways): Why age, appearance, and accomplishments don’t influence God’s love Biblical examples of how God used people powerfully at every stage of life What Scripture says about favoritism and how to avoid it How to cultivate a heart that God sees as fully committed to Him The freedom that comes from living for God’s approval, not the world’s applause 💬 Join the Conversation:Have you ever felt defined by your appearance, age, or status? How has God reminded you that He sees your heart? Share your experience using #HeartOverHype and tag @LifeaudioNetwork. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: It’s A Heart Matter By Lynette Kittle “But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart”--1 Samuel 16:7 Sometimes we might believe God’s love is like worldly love, where He loves the young and strong more than the older and weaker. But God doesn’t love like the world loves, or love us more in the prime of life, than when we advance in age. He doesn’t practice ageism, but loves us as we grow, and even seems to celebrate and enjoy us as we age, like Proverbs 16:31 describes, “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.” As well, Proverbs 20:29, explains how, “The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.” Unlike some in society discard individuals as they age, God promises in Isaiah 64:4, “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” In looking at individuals in the Bible, we see it is true, as God moved miraculously through those well past their 30s,40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, and even older, men and women like Abraham and Sarah, Moses, Zechariah and Elizabeth, Simeon, and Anna to name a few. God Looks Deeper Just as age doesn’t determine God’s love for us, neither do our accomplishments, status in life, weight, height, or ethnicity. He doesn’t look at individuals like the masses do, favoring those who excel in sports, entertainment, music, beauty, intellect, fitness, and more, or looking down on those who seemingly have nothing to offer, but rather, God looks past our accomplishments and public accolades, or lack of them, and our family history, to see our hearts. Luke writes in Acts 10:34-35 “Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right. You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, announcing the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.’” Likewise, the Apostle Paul explains in Galatians 3:28 “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Again, in Romans 10:12, Paul says, “For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on Him.” God Isn’t Partial Scripture makes it clear that God doesn’t favor young over old, nor does He show partiality to the rich and famous over the homeless person on the side of the road, because God looks at each person’s heart. Unlike humans, Romans 2:11 clearly spells it out, “For God does not show favoritism.” He isn’t tempted, like we are, to give in to favoritism. “To show partiality is not good— yet a person will do wrong for a piece of bread” (Proverbs 28:21). James 2:9 takes it even further, letting us know it’s not okay to practice. “But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.” God Looks At Our Hearts God, too, isn’t just casually checking heart conditions; He searches, as 2 Chronicles 16:9 explains, “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him.” He looks at our hearts, because that’s what matters to Him most. When Jesus was asked what is the greatest of the commandments, “Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind’” (Matthew 22:37). When we do, He assures us in Psalm 91:14, “’Because he loves me,’ says the Lord ‘I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges My name.’” Intersecting Faith & Life: How do you look at people? Do you outwardly, considering their ages, accomplishments, and family history, or do you look deeper at their hearts? If you struggle with seeing others from a worldly viewpoint, ask God to help you look at them the way He does. Further Reading: “10 Sins that Clutter the Heart and How to Remove Them” https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/10-sins-that-clutter-the-heart-and-how-to-remove-them.html Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Unity in the body of Christ doesn’t happen by accident—it takes humility, honesty, and the willingness to address sin with grace. In this episode, we unpack the biblical process for reconciliation, based on Matthew 18, and why it's crucial for maintaining purity and unity within the church. Learn how godly confrontation, led by the Spirit, fosters healing and glorifies God. What You’ll Learn (Key Takeaways): Why Matthew 18 is a biblical guide for addressing sin—not just personal offense How private, Spirit-led conversations can lead to repentance and restoration The difference between forgiveness and reconciliation, and why both matter Practical steps for apologizing, seeking forgiveness, and restoring unity How church unity reflects the beauty of Christ’s bride—spotless and ready 💬 Join the Conversation:Is there someone you need to reconcile with today? How have you seen God work through moments of humility and forgiveness? Share your story and tag us @LifeaudioNetwork with #UnityInChrist 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Be Unified “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.” Matthew18:15 A friend had come into my husband's office to talk. She experienced hurt feelings over things she had perceived were said in a recent conversation. However, what was said and what she perceived were two different things. She sat down in his chair and began to speak. “I forgive you,” she began. She then began to rattle off some things that she felt. She was upset with some decisions that had been made, which made her feel devalued and unappreciated in the church. My husband apologized and told her he was sorry for her feelings. They agreed on ways in which she could be more valued and use her gifts that didn't tax her, but also made her feel appreciated. He walked away from the meeting happy about its resolution. However, a few months later, we were informed that she had been talking to elders about this issue. The elders felt the matter was settled and were uncomfortable continuing this conversation. The person continued to feel slighted. The leadership ignored her demands, and she left the church. Every Christian should follow the process outlined in Matthew 18 regarding matters in the church. First, if a person sins against you, you must go directly to them and point out that fault. The point is not to express hurt feelings but rather a particular sin that has been committed. Matthew 18 does not have to be followed if no sin has been committed. It’s essential to meet privately between you to give the Holy Spirit a chance to convict the offender. It is also important not to bring shame or condemnation to the offended person. Because there's no condemnation under Christ Jesus, we know we can fully accept his forgiveness through Christ. Sometimes, however, we are blinded by those issues in our lives that we don't see. Sometimes we need someone to go and point those things out to us to let us know we have wronged them. When the Holy Spirit convicts us of that sin, it allows us to confess, repent, and enjoy the complete forgiveness that Christ gives us. Matthew 18 is not used for conflict resolution. It is used to point out sin so that the purity and unity of the church can remain intact. However, it is a good starting point for two people who have difficulty expressing their emotions or having hard conversations. Beginning the process by pointing out someone else's fault gives them a chance to apologize, repent, and continue with the reconciliation process. Think about someone whom you have wronged. Did that person come to you and let you know about your fault? Was there sin associated with it? If so, it is essential to be convicted of that sin, confess it, and repent of it. If your pride has not allowed you to apologize to that person, do so. It is never too late to begin the process of reconciliation with a brother or sister in Christ. God is glorified when we humble ourselves, apologize, repent, and move toward reconciliation. God wants his church to be unified. The church is the reflection of God's glory. It is to be a spotless bride waiting for the bridegroom, Jesus, to return to be united in heaven. However, with our sinful natures, that's not always the case. Sins, hard feelings, and harsh words get exchanged, allowing the body of Christ to be divided rather than united. God wants us to be united with him and each other. However, our sinful issues don't always make that possible. Do what you can to be reconciled with a brother or sister in Christ today. If you have someone with whom you have an issue, especially within your church, it is never too late to apologize to them. If you're too embarrassed to do so, write a letter expressing your remorse over the issue. Give God glory by humbling yourself and apologizing. If a person has wronged you and has not come to apologize, do the work of forgiveness. Please don't blow it off or sweep it under the rug. Instead, ask the Holy Spirit to remove the pain, hurt, and anger sin has caused. Treat that brother or sister like they've never sinned against you. These things glorify God. Father, let us be people who humble ourselves and achieve unity. Let us go to a brother or sister in Christ and reconcile relationships today. It is never too late to observe humility and apologize for our wrongdoings. Help us to achieve unity by reconciling with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Amen. Intersecting Faith and Life Is there a person to whom you need to be reconciled? What can you do to do that today? Further reading Matthew 5:23-24 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In a world obsessed with planning and productivity, it’s easy to assume we’ve got tomorrow under control. But what happens when life reminds us how fragile and uncertain the future really is? In this episode, Whitney Hopler shares a sobering yet hope-filled reflection on how surrendering our plans to God’s will can lead to deeper peace, trust, and joy—no matter what tomorrow brings. What You’ll Learn (Key Takeaways): Why our lives are more fragile than we often admit—and how that reality invites us to trust God The difference between planning with pride and planning with purpose How to replace anxiety about the future with peace from God’s presence Practical mindset shifts to invite God into everyday decisions Why flexibility in faith is key to discovering God's greater plans for us 💬 Join the Conversation:How have you seen God's plans override your own—in good or unexpected ways? Share your story and tag us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork. We'd love to hear how you're trusting God for tomorrow. #TrustGodWithTomorrow 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Only God Knows What Will Happen Tomorrow By: Whitney Hopler “Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’” – James 4:13-15, NIV Recently, while driving on an interstate road, I saw a car accident up ahead. A driver hit a construction barrier and the car burst into flames. I passed the car as it was completely engulfed in flames, with what looked like the burnt remains of people’s bodies inside. I saw a police car arrive to start blocking traffic. It parked some distance away to stay safe, since the car was ready to explode at any moment. An ambulance was coming, but as I passed the burning car, I felt a deep sense of sadness for the people it was on the way to rescue. It was too late. There were no survivors. All I could do was pray for the people who had started that day expecting to live but ended up dying in that accident. Life is unpredictable. We make plans, set goals, and dream about the future. But in reality, we don’t have control over what will happen tomorrow. James 4:13-15 warns against making plans with the assumption that we can control our own destiny. These verses remind us that our lives are like a mist – here for a short time and then gone. Keeping that fact in mind can help us trust God, who does have control over the future. Only God knows what will happen tomorrow. Many of us like to feel in control. We plan our schedules, organize our work, and set goals for the future. However, life often brings unexpected changes our way. We may encounter good changes (like opportunities we never anticipated) or bad changes (like challenges with our health or jobs). We may even face the end of our earthly lives unexpectedly, like the people in the car accident I saw. No matter how carefully we plan, we still never know what tomorrow holds. But God does! Does this mean we shouldn’t make plans? No, but it does mean we should hold our plans loosely. Instead of saying: “I will do this,” we should say: “If it’s the Lord’s will, I will do this.” This simple change in mindset shows God that we’re really trusting his good plans for us. While it’s wise to make plans, we must remember that God has the final say. God’s wisdom is far greater than ours, and he sees the whole picture while we see only a small part of it. We should seek God’s guidance before making important decisions. Then, we should live with gratitude for each day. Since we don’t know what tomorrow holds, we should cherish the present time. Each day is a gift from God, so we should use it wisely – to love God and others, and to enjoy life to the fullest. Finally, we need to be flexible and trust that God’s plans for us are better than our own. Sometimes, the doors we want to walk through remain closed, and we wonder why. But in time, we often see that God was protecting us from something that was not meant for us. At other times, God redirects us toward something even greater than we could have imagined on our own. If we truly believe that God is good, we can trust that every change God makes to our plans will be good for us. So, we don’t have to worry about the uncertainty we face in this fallen world. We can choose to let uncertainty motivate us to trust God in deeper ways. When we live this way, we can experience true peace, no matter what happens in the future! Intersecting Faith and Life As you consider how to trust God for your future, reflect on these questions: Do you make some plans without considering God’s will? If so, how can you involve God more in the decisions you make? How do you respond when your plans don’t go as expected? How can you trust more that God is in control when you face unexpected changes? What are some areas in your life where you need to surrender control to God? How can you develop an attitude of gratitude each day? Further Reading Proverbs 16:9 Matthew 6:34 Proverbs 3:5-6 Psalm 37:5 Romans 8:28 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever started something with fire in your soul—only to find that same fire dimming over time? Today’s devotional explores what it means to press on in our faith journey even when the road gets rough, the passion fades, and everything in us wants to give up. Whether you're in a spiritual slump or simply tired, this episode reminds you: your race isn't over. Jesus is worth every step. 🏃‍♀️ What You'll Learn: Why passion fades—and what to do when it does How to guard your heart from spiritual burnout Why remembering God's past faithfulness fuels future perseverance How Scripture calls us to run with endurance, not perfection 💬 Join the Conversation:What helps you press on when your passion wanes? We want to hear how God is sustaining you in this season. Tag us @LifeaudioNetwork and share your journey with the hashtag #PressingOnWithChrist. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Pressing On By Megan J. Conner “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Phil. 3:12-14 (NIV) Have you ever set an ambitious goal for yourself? One you knew from the start would be a significant undertaking, maybe even life-changing? Perhaps you were inspired by a book you read, a film you watched, or maybe even the passionate pursuit of another as they chased after their dreams. Spurred on by this catalyst, you determined, no matter the cost, you were going to do the thing! You create a plan and put it in motion, adjusting your lifestyle, attitude, and even interactions with others to prioritize your aspiration. Every day, you rise early or stay up late, you make the necessary sacrifices, and you chase hard after your new objective. But after a time, the struggle begins to get real. The new wears off, and what began as an exciting pursuit now feels like drudgery. You are doing what you’ve done from the start, so what has changed? Your perspective. Many of us experience this as we grow and mature in our walks with the Lord. We come to faith with great fervor. Zealous for the Lord and His Kingdom, we give it all in those early days of salvation. Like a young couple during their engagement and the honeymoon period, our spiritual lives are brimming with anticipation and promise. We fully believe anything is possible! There is nothing but good ahead of us. And we can’t even fathom a moment where we would feel any different than we do during this season – where passions run high and we would never doubt our purpose or our ability to press on towards our final destination, eternity with Him. But the truth is, time and the realities of disappointment and hardship in this world wear all of us down. Relationships are hard. Spiritual discipline can feel more like a chore than a blessing. And before we know it, we can become disillusioned. Perspective changes everything. When we lose sight of the finish line, we can easily become weary in well-doing. The Word of God says: “Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Gal. 6:8-9 (NIV). When we become tired or the daily struggle to maintain our goals feels burdensome, our minds and bodies will provide us every excuse to sit down, take the easy road, or even walk away. The tug of mediocrity invites us to “rest” and focus on the now – what is right in front of us and forsake what we once desired ahead. However, this is the exact moment when we must remind our minds and hearts, militantly if necessary, to look up and out towards our reward – Christ Jesus. Let us not be lulled to sleep but instead fix our eyes on Him. For He is our prize, and when we finish the race and enter into our eternity with Him, the discipline and sacrifice we made will have all been worth it! “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Heb. 12:1-2 (NIV) Intersecting Faith & Life: Are you passionately pursuing the Lord during this season of life? Or have you lost sight of the goal set before you? Take some time today to recollect those early days of your salvation when intimacy with the Lord was so sweet. Just as it is important to remind ourselves of our love for our spouse when life overshadows romance, so too, is it important to recall God’s profound love in your life. Remember moments where you have sensed His nearness and provision. With renewed perspective, commit again today to press onward to the prize which is Christ Jesus. Further Reading: Phil. 3 Heb. 12 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if scrubbing toilets and vacuuming floors could become acts of worship? This episode invites us into a new mindset—one that transforms the mundane into the meaningful. With honesty, humor, and a reminder of God’s generous gifts, you’ll discover how everyday tasks can become sacred when done with the right heart. 🛠️ What You'll Learn: Why stewardship is about more than finances—it’s about faithfulness How shifting from “I have to” to “I get to” can change your daily life What it looks like to clean your home (or do any dreaded task) for God’s glory Practical tips for tackling chores with joy and intention 💬 Join the Conversation:What’s the one chore you usually dread—but are willing to tackle with a new mindset? Snap a pic of your progress or drop a comment about how you're shifting your perspective today. Tag us @LifeaudioNetwork and let’s cheer each other on as we do it all for God’s glory! 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Doing it for God’s Glory “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 At the end of a long work week, the last thing I want to do is clean my house. However, after leaving it untouched for several weeks, it was clear it needed a good cleaning. The floors were dirty and full of crumbs and dog hair. The bathrooms needed a good wipe. All the dishes needed to be done, the appliances needed to be cleaned, and the counters needed to be cleared of crumbs or debris. I knew this needed to be done. Frankly, I have been putting it off. While I understand that every person is responsible for stewarding the things God has given them. It made me feel like a slave whenever I cleaned up after my husband and children, especially when they came home, made a mess, and did not attempt to help clean or assist in these duties. One day, the Lord whispered the above verse to my heart. At first, the conviction that this first verse brought stung my soul. However, as I read and meditated on this verse, it became apparent to me: I didn't have to clean; I got to clean. God has blessed us with many wonderful possessions. This included two cars that, although used, were completely paid off, a medium-sized home in a lovely area of an up-and-coming town in Pennsylvania. I must be a good steward of what God has given me. But I hated the fact that I had to do it alone. No matter how much I proclaimed my dissatisfaction, no one stood up to help. But God was trying to tell me in this verse that he had freely given all these things to me. It was my job to take good care of them. It was not my job to judge whether other people were doing their work. I needed to do what God was calling me to do. I put in my earbuds, played great 80s music, and got to work. I set the timer for 60 minutes. If I did a small chunk of time each day rather than waiting for it to pile up, I'd get through it more quickly and more thoroughly. Before I knew it, the timer had gone off and I had only gotten to two rooms. It wasn't because I was lazy or procrastinating. Instead, it was because I was enjoying what I was doing. Soon, this chore that I dreaded became something that I stewarded. Because of this switch in my perspective, I could see that even cleaning toilets or wiping down counters full of toothpaste stains meant I was worshipping the Lord. Because I enjoyed the music in my ears, it made the chores fun. Because I realized that this was all for God's glory and not mine, the time went by much more quickly, and I enjoyed the chore much more thoroughly. Think about the things you must do in life. Are there tasks that you must do that you put off simply because you hate doing them? How would this switch in perspective change your worldview on that task? When we choose to see that we do everything for God's glory, even the most menial task, we understand that it's not about us but about God. In these things, God is glorified, and we are blessed because we get to have them. A switch in perspective from what we have to do to what we get to do changes the way we see things in life. Many people would be more than happy to have my home. I needed to start being grateful and stop taking things for granted. God owes us nothing. However, he gives us everything freely through the riches afforded us by Christ Jesus. When we understand and stop taking for granted the things that God has given us and steward them well by working hard on even the most menial tasks, we are blessed and we get to bless God in the process. Father, let us be people who steward our possessions well. Let us see even the most mundane tasks from the perspective that they are all for your glory. Help us not to become discouraged and frustrated, but happy and full of joy, because we know that ultimately, through this task, you get the glory, and we do not. Amen. Intersecting Faith and Life Is there a task you hate to do? How would this change in perspective help you do this chore with joy? Further Reading Proverbs 3:5-6 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.