The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

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.

Today’s devotional takes us deep into the compassionate heart of Jesus. In a world loud with noise and performance, Christ shows us a love that is deeply personal, quietly powerful, and beautifully intentional. Jennifer Slattery unpacks the healing of a deaf man in Mark 7 to reveal how Jesus doesn’t just care for the crowd—He cherishes the individual. This story is a powerful reminder that God sees you, values you, and offers healing not as a show, but as an intimate act of love. What You'll Learn: Why Jesus may have taken the deaf man aside before healing him How Christ’s actions protect dignity and demonstrate personal compassion The difference between public miracles and private moments of grace What this tells us about how God views you—not as a project, but as a person 💬 Join the Conversation: Have you ever experienced a quiet, personal moment with God that changed everything? Share how Jesus has shown you His tenderness and love—and tag someone who could use a reminder that they are seen, known, and deeply loved by the Savior. Tell us about it with #LifeaudioNetwork. Your story might just be the hope someone else needs today. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Christ’s Tender Love for the Wounded by Jennifer Slattery 31 Then Jesus left the vicinity of Tyre and went through Sidon, down to the Sea of Galilee and into the region of the Decapolis. 32 There some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk, and they begged Jesus to place his hand on him. 33 After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man’s ears. Then he spit and touched the man’s tongue. 34 He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, “Ephphatha!” (which means “Be opened!”). 35 At this, the man’s ears were opened, his tongue was loosened and he began to speak plainly. 36 Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone. But the more he did so, the more they kept talking about it. - Mark 7:31-36 NIV The more I study Scripture, the more I’m touched by the tenderness Christ often displayed. In Matthew 19, He stopped, in the middle of teaching important truths to adults, to draw children close. In Mark 5, we read about how He healed a bleeding woman who’d spent twelve years living in shame, and called her daughter in front of the watching crowd. He touched lepers, defended the oppressed, and, it seems, protected a newly healed deaf man from becoming a spectacle before the curious masses. Granted my assumption is, well, assumption, but do you find it intriguing that Jesus asked this man and his friends, or family, not to tell others about this healing? While this wasn’t the only time Jesus gave such instructions, He didn’t always do so. In fact, I’m only aware of a handful of times. During one, scholars suggest He wanted to keep the crowds from making Him king by force and the Pharisee’s hostility from turning homicidal before His final earthly Passover. In another, He silenced demons—that makes sense, right, and provides a great example for how we should deal with the devil and his minions—by refusing to listen to anything they have to say. But those circumstances don’t appear to apply to today’s passage. Consider, after healing a royal official’s son from a terminal illness in John 4, we don’t read any indication that Jesus wanted the parents to keep the miracle to themselves. Nor did He give such instructions to any of the five thousand men and an unnamed number of women and children fed from one boy’s lunch in John 6. That was quite a public event the news of which would’ve spread throughout the region. Notice also what we read in Matthew 8. According to verses 16, When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. Obviously, He didn’t do this in secret, nor, do we read Him telling any of them to keep their healing quiet. So, again, why did He do so when it came to the deaf man in Mark 7? While Scripture doesn’t reveal this directly, the text seems to provide some clues. First, we read that this event occurred in the predominantly Gentile area known as the Decapolis. It seems unlikely, then, that He worried about increasing Pharisee hostility. I also doubt He feared these people, who didn’t experience the same level of oppression as the Jews, would try and make Him their king. Notice, also, verse 33 told us that He took the man aside, away from the crowd. This demonstrates He didn’t use the man, or the miracle, to wow the masses. This was a human being, not a circus act or popularity contest. Could it be, as some scholars suggest, that the Lord wanted to preserve the man’s privacy, and therefore, dignity, and to clearly convey His love? What if Jesus wanted the man to know that He healed him for no other reason than concern for him? And, perhaps Jesus wanted to protect Him from the overstimulation of going from deaf to hearing in the middle of a large, and noisy, crowd. Intersecting Life and Faith This theory, while just a theory, remains consistent with the heart of Christ Scripture reveals. Yes, He wanted the masses to know that He was the Son of God. He also wanted people to know the truth that could set them free. Just as He wants the people of our day to come to saving faith in Him. Yet, He cares for each of us uniquely, personally, and tenderly, and He longs to see us living, firmly anchored in His love. In a world in which many of us can feel, at times, used and discarded, our Lord looks on us with tender, affectionate compassion. To Him, we will always be more than the means to an end. Further Reading: Psalm 103:13-18 Psalm 147:3 Isaiah 49:13-16 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When was the last time you were truly awe-struck by God—not because of what He’s done for you, but simply because of who He is? In today’s episode, Megan J. Conner invites us to pause, look up, and soak in the wonder of our Creator. From nature’s beauty to God’s unshakable character, this is your reminder that praise isn’t just a reaction—it’s a decision. And our God? He’s more than worthy. 🛠️ What You'll Learn: How the natural world reflects the majesty and character of God Why everyday distractions can dull our sense of wonder—and how to reverse that Specific attributes of God that anchor our praise, straight from Psalm 145 Practical ways to intentionally refocus your heart on worship 💬 Join the Conversation: When was the last time you praised God just for who He is? What do you see in creation that points you back to His greatness? Share how you’re looking up and looking out today—and tag a friend who needs to be reminded that God’s glory is never far from view. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Worthy of Praise By Megan J. Conner “Great is the LORD! He is most worthy of praise!No one can measure his greatness… Your awe-inspiring deeds will be on every tongue;I will proclaim your greatness… For your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom.You rule throughout all generations.The LORD always keeps his promises;he is gracious in all he does… I will praise the LORD,and may everyone on earth bless his holy nameforever and ever.” Ps. 145:3, 6, 13, 21 (NLT) Have you ever seen the sunrise crest over the horizon and been truly stunned by its brilliance? Or perhaps stood on a coastal shoreline and wondered at the boundaries placed on the powerful waves? What about when you witness the first blossoms of early spring that tangibly remind us of the power of resurrection – life after death? Scripture tells us, creation itself declares the majesty of our God. “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands,” (Ps. 19:1, NIV). It is nearly impossible not to be stirred by the divine attributes of our Lord displayed in nature. Conversely, they can somehow be easy to overlook. Worries, disappointments, and the cares of this world dull our sight, and that which is resplendent becomes opaque and mundane. The evidence of our Maker and His kingdom is all around us. We only have to look up and look out. As simple as that sounds, it takes intentional effort. We must quiet our racing thoughts long enough to appreciate the glory around us. When we enter into this reflective state, we not only remember the powerful deity of our universe-creating God, we recall His character and attributes. We remember: “The LORD is merciful and compassionate,slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love… The LORD is good to everyone.He showers compassion on all his creation. The LORD always keeps his promises;he is gracious in all he does. The LORD helps the fallenand lifts those bent beneath their loads. The LORD is close to all who call on him… He grants the desires of those who fear him;he hears their cries for help and rescues them. The LORD protects all those who love him,but he destroys the wicked.” In light of such truths, how can we refrain from praising Him? He truly is worthy of our praise. No matter what burdens or distractions are weighing down your heart today, I encourage you, “Lift up your heads, you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in,” (Ps. 24:7, NIV). Sometimes, what we need more than anything is to simply look up and remind our hearts that there is an eternal, divine Creator who truly does hold the whole world in His hands. Not only is He fully able to meet every one of your needs, but He is worthy of our praise and admiration. Will you join me today, as we boldly declare together, “Great is the LORD! He is most worthy of praise! Intersecting Faith & Life: When was the last time you praised the Lord simply for who He is rather than what He can do for you? Are there cares and concerns weighing down your heart or dulling your senses? If so, I encourage you to proactively search for God’s divine majesty and attributes today. Instead of getting up and immediately turning on the radio or the TV, crack open a window and simply sit in the silence. A symphony of birdsong will immediately overtake the perceived hush. Listen closer, can you hear the wind rustling through the leaves, or perhaps squirrels bounding from branch to branch? Now, look up, what do you see? Has the sun risen? If so, take a moment and marvel at the element itself. The sun, and its light, is the lifeblood of all creation. Its existence is beyond anything our humanity could create. We live every day with all of this glory around us, yet we so easily take it for granted. He truly is worthy of our praise! How can you take time to look up and look out today? Further Reading: Gen. 1 Psalm 145 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you ever feel like fear is hiding in plain sight—disguised as perfectionism, control, or a constant buzz of worry? In today’s devotional, Keri Eichberger gets real about her lifelong battle with anxiety and the freedom she’s discovered in trusting a sovereign, loving God. This isn’t just a pep talk—it’s a call to honest reflection and a practical reset for anxious hearts. Because when God is near, fear doesn’t stand a chance. What You'll Learn: Why fear often hides in everyday thought patterns (and how to spot it). How to recognize the connection between control, anxiety, and misplaced trust. Two core truths that disarm fear: God is in control and God loves you deeply. The difference between knowing you “shouldn’t worry” and actually living in peace. 💬 Join the Conversation:What sneaky forms does fear take in your life—control, overthinking, perfectionism? How do you shift your trust back to God when anxiety creeps in? Share your story or encouragement with us in the comments or on IG @LifeaudioNetwork We don’t have to live in fear, because we never live alone. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Have No Fear, God is Near. By Keri Eichberger When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise— in God I trust and am not afraid. (Psalm 56:3–4) I have battled with worry, anxiety, and fear since before I can remember. In fact, I wrote a book about these hot topics. And I’ve often wondered if people knew how much I still struggle in this arena, if they would think I had no business weighing in on such weighty issues. If so, my comeback defense would be—if only they knew how much more I used to be consumed by anxiety and constant unease. Because the truth is, my considerable progress might suggest some serious gained wisdom. And, something else that perplexed me as I began to bring this message into the world, was the volume of people who actually believed worry wasn’t one of their personal primary problems. Well, I have two things to say to my contemplations. One, God truly has helped me win more and more over my worry. And two, no matter how much someone thinks they don’t worry, they actually do much more than they realize. Which brings me to the conclusion: We all need God‘s constant reminders that we don’t have to fear—because our good and sovereign God can be trusted. How about you? Do you struggle with worry and fear? What about your thoughts? Do you find yourself consumed with an idea, a plan, or circumstance? And do you try to control outcomes, or tend to frequently strive for perfection? If we got really honest, I bet we could say yes to these questions more than we’d like to admit. I’ve become convinced that worry is wrapped up in all of those things. And ultimately fear as at the root. Unresolved fear that is soaked in misplaced faith and misguided trust. You might be very well aware that you have unresolved fear and worry. Or maybe the enemy has been sneaky with you and you can hardly see it. Either way, we all have it. So for the sake of helping us win this war over worry, I have some reminders for both of us. Truths that I know I need to continue to place deeper and deeper within. Again and again. In the face of any thought that stirs up unease and swells with uncertainty, or in the midst of any situation that starts to overwhelm, there are a couple truths we need to reclaim. That God is in control, and that God loves us. And if these two statements are true—which they are—we have absolutely nothing to be afraid of. Easier said than done, I know. But God has every single detail of your life under his authority. And God loves and cares for you perfectly and unconditionally. You, me, all your people, and all of his people. So, that means we can all relax. We can slow down. We can let go a little more. We can enjoy life a whole lot more. And we can breathe a bit deeper and move much more freely. Intersecting Faith and Life: As you consider whatever has you worked up, about whatever, will you reclaim and replace your faith and trust in God with me? Friend, we can trust him. And we can live with less fear because our good, sovereign God is always near Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What do you do when your world feels like it’s caving in? Jennifer Slattery brings us face-to-face with a powerful moment in David’s life where everything was falling apart—and yet, he found strength not in strategy, but in God. In today’s devotional, we explore what it means to “strengthen ourselves in the Lord,” and how to follow David’s example in our own moments of fear, anxiety, and deep distress. 🛠️ What You'll Learn: The biblical blueprint for handling emotional overwhelm. Why expressing raw emotions to God isn’t weakness—it’s spiritual wisdom. How praising God’s character shifts our perspective and calms our storm. That supernatural strength doesn’t always change the circumstance—but it always changes us. Everyone has default responses to crisis—some healthy, some not so much. This episode invites you to consider your own “patterns” and how they compare to David’s spiritual reflexes. Are you leaning on your own strength or anchoring yourself in the Lord? Reflect, journal, or pray through a time you experienced God’s sustaining power right when you needed it most. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Supernatural strength for times of crisis By Jennifer Slattery David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God. –1 Samuel 30:6 NIV As someone with a long history of anxiety, in my ongoing pursuit of peace, I’m inspired by David’s response during a time of crisis. When he found his life threatened by angry and, likely, highly fearful soldiers, he didn’t panic, try to come up with some life-preserving strategy, or even try to talk his men down from their overwhelm and upset. Instead, he “strengthened himself in the Lord.” While Scripture doesn’t describe how he did so in this instance, it does record numerous prayers that show a predictable pattern. When afraid, David routinely turned to God, to whom he expressed the depths of his emotions, holding nothing back. He sought God’s help, protection, and provision, and he reminded himself of the Lord’s unchanging character, power, and promises. We all have “predictable patterns,” some helpful, and others, not so much. Most of us have spent a lifetime of relying on ourselves and seeking temporary comfort in insufficient coping methods. But as we grow closer to Christ, He increases our trust in Him and teaches us to turn to Him in times of crisis, as David did in 1 Samuel 30. This occurred after God, through His prophet, anointed him as king but prior to him taking the throne. In that stretch of time between receiving and living out his calling, he spent at least a decade fleeing from Saul, a homicidal, mentally disturbed leader who forfeited his legacy when he chose to follow his will rather than the Lord’s. And spent the rest of his life obsessively pursuing David to kill him. But God protected David again and again, and with each divine rescue, his faith grew. Although a mighty warrior who, as a teenager, defeated a massive, highly trained and experienced Philistine soldier, and numerous other battle victories, he didn’t rely on his wisdom or military might. Instead, he sought strength in the Lord. We catch a glimpse of how in his many songs and prayers recorded in the Psalms. Like I said earlier, he often began crying out to God with unfiltered emotion. In Psalm 3:1-2, he wrote: Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me!2 Many are saying of me, “God will not deliver him” (NIV). And in Psalm 13:1-4: How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?2 How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me? 3 Look on me and answer, Lord my God. Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death,4 and my enemy will say, “I have overcome him,” and my foes will rejoice when I fall. And in Psalm 22:1-2: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?2 My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, but I find no rest. Notice, David didn’t deny or suppress his feelings, nor did he rush past them. Instead, he expressed his anguish to the One who could comfort, sustain, and guide him. He also routinely reminded himself of God’s character. In Psalm 4:3, he proclaimed the Lord’s faithful attentiveness, writing: Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him. And in Psalm 7:11 we read: For the Lord is righteous, he loves justice; the upright will see his face (NIV). In Psalm 9:7, he praised God for His sovereignty when he wrote, The Lord reigns forever; he has established his throne for judgment (NIV). When frightened or overwhelmed, David reminded himself of the truth of God’s love and care, declaring, in Psalm 3:3-5: But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.4 I call out to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy mountain. 5 I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. I wake again, because the Lord sustains me (NIV). In Psalm 18:2, 28-36 we read: The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. … You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.29 With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall. 30 As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.31 For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the Rock except our God?32 It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure.33 He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he causes me to stand on the heights.34 He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze.35 You make your saving help my shield, and your right hand sustains me; your help has made me great.36 You provide a broad path for my feet, so that my ankles do not give way (NIV). Intersecting Life and Faith God recorded each of these passages, and numerous others like them, to show us how to respond to our seasons of overwhelm. Like David, we can turn to Him in our fear, remind ourselves of His nature and His heart, and reflect upon His unchanging truth. Not only does this decrease our anxiety and fear, but it also helps to rewire our brains to experience ever-increasing peace. Further Reading: 2 Corinthians 10:5 Romans 8:26-39 1 Peter 5:6-7 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In a culture obsessed with independence, grit, and getting it all done, the idea that surrender leads to strength feels... wrong. And yet, Scripture says it's the secret weapon. When life unravels and your strength runs dry, it’s not the end of your story—it’s the beginning of God’s power showing up. Key Takeaways Surrender Isn’t Quitting—It’s Trading UpPaul didn’t just survive his suffering—he thrived because he stopped striving. He let God fill the gap. Real strength begins when our grip loosens. Weakness is a Holy InvitationIt’s not just okay to be weak—it’s spiritually strategic. That place of limitation? That’s the landing pad for divine power. Control is a Mirage, Trust is a FortressMegan’s story hits home: when nothing on the outside changed, everything on the inside did. Why? Because she shifted from self-reliance to God-dependence. You Don’t Need More Strength. You Need More Surrender.The peace that passes understanding (Phil. 4:7) doesn’t come from more willpower—it comes from more willingness to let Christ carry you. Join the Conversation Ever experienced the moment where you hit your limit—and God met you there with supernatural strength? Tell us about it with #LifeaudioNetwork. Your story might just be the hope someone else needs today. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Exchanging Weakness for Strength By Megan J. Conner “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Cor. 12:9 (NIV) I was totally and completely overwhelmed by my circumstances. It felt like everything in my life was spinning out of control. It was as if the storms of chaos were attacking from every side all at once, and I could not find my footing. Both my husband and my daughter were facing significant health issues, our business was facing unprecedented challenges, and my anxiety was at an all-time high. I struggled to sleep. I struggled to eat. Even the most mundane, simple tasks felt immensely burdensome and unmanageable. I was weak in body and spirit. I prayed time and time again for the Lord to relieve me of my burdens. Despite my desperate pleas, nothing tangibly changed. It was all completely out of my control. There was nothing I could do to alter my unwelcome dilemmas, and it appeared God wasn’t all that interested in offering me a way out. We see a similar example of this from the apostle Paul in his second letter to the Corinthian church. “Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Cor. 12:8-10, NIV). We aren’t sure what specific ailment Paul considered as the thorn in his flesh, but it is clear that whether it was mental or physical, the apostle wrestled with it and longed for his circumstances to be different. However, God allowed the unwelcome assailant to remain for Paul’s good. It never feels good when we suffer pain, disappointment, limitations, illnesses, or injuries. Yet, we live in a fallen world where the consequences of sin rest on all humanity, where mortality is reality, and troubles are guaranteed (John 16:33). While undesirable to our flesh, it is actually through these challenges that we learn a dependence upon the Lord that would not be possible if we always had it all together. As Paul is weakened in his humanity as a result of his condition, he actually gains strength. It is a lasting, supernatural strength that stretches far beyond his human ability to endure the unendurable. Why? Because it is not Paul’s inner strength that continues to propel him forward, it is Christ in him. What a paradox! To obtain power and strength, we must first become frail and weak. Yet it is exactly in this place of weakness that we discover not only a resilience we never thought possible, but we are also consumed with immense peace. A peace that surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:7). Like Paul, I have experienced the glory of exchanging weakness for strength. Did any of the circumstances I described earlier change to promote this newfound peace? No. Instead, my heart and mind found rest as I trusted Him who was giving me the strength. It all truly is out of my control, and any attempt I make to try to navigate my own way through only results in increased anxiety and fear. Yet, when I lean on His strength, I not only have the endurance to continue forging forward, I can rest and trust in Him. For when I am weak, He is strong. Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you feel weak or strong today? Is your weakness or strength evident physically or spiritually? Are you someone who longs for control or prides themselves on their own strength? How does Paul’s declaration that he not only understands how God uses his weakness to teach him strength, but actually boasts in his own weaknesses, alter your perspective? Take some time today to reflect and journal about one or two past or present situations where you have encountered weakness exchanged for strength. Further Reading: 2 Cor. 12:1-10 Phil 4:4-9 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.