The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

Understanding the "fear of the Lord" begins with recognizing God's character. Proverbs 8:13 reminds us that reverence for God is not about living in constant terror but about honoring Him so deeply that we reject what He calls evil. As we grow in our relationship with Christ, obedience becomes less about fear of punishment and more about love, trust, and respect for the One who is perfectly holy and perfectly good. This devotion encourages believers to move beyond a distorted view of God as someone waiting for them to fail. Instead, Scripture reveals a Father who calls His children to walk in wisdom, love, and holiness. Genuine reverence for God transforms our hearts, shaping the way we speak, make decisions, and respond to temptation because we desire to reflect His character. Highlights: Reverence for God grows out of knowing His holy and loving character Respecting the Lord leads us to reject pride, evil, and sinful behavior Obedience is rooted in love for Christ, not merely fear of consequences God's desire is to draw His people closer, not push them away through intimidation A healthy view of God inspires joyful faithfulness and spiritual growth Join the Conversation When you hear the phrase "fear the Lord," what comes to mind? How has your understanding of God's character shaped the way you approach Him in worship, obedience, and everyday life? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: What it Means to Respect the LordBy Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech” (Proverbs 8:13). Many of us grew up hearing about the fear of the Lord. As someone who did not grow up in the church, I didn't hear about this until much later. However, I can imagine the anxiety it raised in the hearts of children. The idea of fearing the Lord suggests that we are supposed to be afraid of Him. When we look at the Bible, we don't see Jesus as a scary, fear-mongering God. Instead, we see Him being born into the world as an innocent baby on one silent night (Luke 2:11). Fearing the Lord has bred many problems within preaching as well as theology in general. This is because far too many people take fear to literally mean being afraid—and this is a completely reasonable conclusion to draw. Some translations include footnotes to guide the reader; however, for most of us who are reading the New International Version or the King James Version, the word remains “fear.” When I was in Bible college, a professor went over this exact issue. Anytime the Bible uses the phrase “the fear of the Lord,” it refers to respecting the Lord. My professor said a more accurate understanding of these passages would be “the respect of the Lord.” To respect Him is to love Him. While many people will continue to preach the message of fear, we must remember that fear doesn't last… love does. If someone places faith in Jesus and follows Him out of fear, their faith will not stand. They will only be obeying Him because they fear Him. With time, their obedience will waver because they won't be afraid of Him anymore. However, if a person loves God and respects Him out of this love, their conversion will be true. Their obedience to Him will also show up in their daily life because they are walking in true love and respect for the Lord. They won't fear the Lord because they know Jesus is not “out to get them” or waiting for them to fall. Far too many believers think this is how God works, but it is not true. God is not a mean God who tries to get you to mess up. The person who does this is the devil. God is the one who is standing by your side, supporting you, encouraging you, and lifting you up (Romans 8:31). Intersecting Faith & Life: The Bible says, “To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech” (Proverbs 8:13). Once again, rather than understanding this passage as “To fear the Lord,” we are to know it means “To respect the Lord.” Therefore, to respect the Lord is to hate evil. The Lord hates evil, pride, arrogance, and perverse speech. Those who adhere to these practices will be brought to judgment. Those who continue down this wicked road, ignore God's wisdom, and fail to seek it will pay the due penalties. Folly and wickedness will lead to falling, separation from God, and an eternity of pain. As Christ followers, we should have the highest respect for God. Respecting Him means we don't take part in evil or wicked schemes. Instead, we will obey Him. Jesus tells us, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15). The Lord’s teachings are nourishment to our bones and will fill our hearts with extraordinary joy. If the fear of the Lord has brought you away from God, allow this new understanding to give you renewed hope. God doesn't want you to fear Him. Rather, He wants you to love Him and to respect Him. By doing this, you will follow Him all your days, continue to grow in Him, and help others to know about Him. Did you hear about the fear of the Lord growing up? Did it affect you negatively? How might you start learning what it means to respect the Lord rather than to fear Him? Further Reading: Psalm 145:8 Proverbs 6:16-19 Ecclesiastes 12:13 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Rest often gets treated like a reward for surviving a busy week, but Scripture paints a very different picture. In Mark 4:39, Jesus speaks peace over chaos and demonstrates that rest is not weakness or avoidance—it is part of a grounded, faithful life. True rest isn’t only about sleep or downtime—it’s also about rhythms that create space for God to quiet the internal noise. When life becomes loud, rest becomes a way of returning to trust instead of strain. Highlights: Rest is modeled by Jesus as part of a healthy, faithful rhythm Ongoing stress without restoration affects emotional and spiritual clarity Rest is proactive, not just recovery after exhaustion Boundaries around time, attention, and input protect well-being Spiritual rest includes time with God, not just physical pause Join the Conversation Where in your current rhythm do you feel most stretched or depleted? What would it look like to build a pattern of rest that actually restores you instead of just catching up after burnout? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Rest Like JesusBy: Michelle Lazurek Bible Reading:“He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.” - Mark 4:39 As someone who has an anxiety disorder, I must be very careful about how much stress I put on my body. Extra stress can leave me emotionally, physically, or mentally exhausted. If I don't get the right amount of sleep, it can cause my anxiety to flare and wreak havoc on my mental health. Since the diagnosis, I'm careful to watch my body's physical signs to indicate that my emotional or mental state is more stressed than I even realize. For example, if at the end of the week I put my hand out and it's shaking for no reason other than I've worked too hard, I know I'm putting my body under extra stress. This causes me to take a step back and take an extra day off to rest physically, but more importantly, mentally and emotionally. I struggle with the idea of rest. As someone who likes to be productive, I often like to make the most of my days. Resting feels like I'm wasting time and not producing anything. Yet, rest is important for my physical, emotional, and mental state. If I don't watch how I take care of myself, this is an easy target for Satan to come in and plant doubts in my mind and flood my thoughts with lies. These lies, if I'm physically exhausted, I won't check against Scripture. If gone unchecked, this can lead to an unhealthy fear of the future. It is important for me to operate from a posture of rest, not merely rest after pushing myself too hard physically, emotionally, or mentally. But that is easier said than done. Jesus operated out of a posture of rest. The above verse comes from Jesus emerging from a storm after waking from a nap. The disciples, scared by the storm that quickly arose on the sea, woke Jesus up even though he was sleeping on the boat. They ask him to do something because it feels as though he's prioritizing rest over caring for them. However, Jesus realizes that rest is one of the most important things he needs to complete his ministry. He knew he simply couldn’t operate without being physically, emotionally, and mentally rested. Not only was he performing signs and miracles, but he was also healing the sick, preaching, and averting arrows thrown by the Pharisees. Jesus knew that his ministry could quickly become overwhelming if he did not take care of himself. When he needed the rest, he stopped at nothing to get it. Take a minute and analyze your life. Are you someone who rests only after a hard week at work? Are you someone who operates from a posture of rest, someone who starts Monday morning feeling refreshed, knowing you rested properly throughout the weekend? It is easy for you, as it is for me, to neglect the importance of rest. You may also see rest as something to be endured, not something necessary for the work God has for you. Over the next week, jot down the number of times you've rested. This does not necessarily mean sleeping in on a weekend (although that could be part of your rest.) Do you take time to unplug from social media? Do you have good boundaries when it comes to scrolling your phone or trolling the Internet? If we're honest, we all could use a lesson in rest. Although it may be impossible for us to rest during crises, we need to take Jesus' example and rest appropriately. We need to rest regularly to care for ourselves, not merely a result of an overextended, overpacked schedule. Father, let us be people who rest. Let us understand that rest is a necessity in our lives, not merely something to do to prevent exhaustion. Help us create firm boundaries around our mental, emotional, and physical state. Let us not only rest physically but also take time to spend with you. When we spend time in your word and in your presence, it helps us rest because we then lay all our cares (including our bodies) before you. Amen. Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you struggle with rest? What is one thing you can do to better incorporate rest into your daily life? Further Reading:Matthew 11:28-30 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Across generations, public moments of prayer and thanksgiving have shaped how many people understand national identity and responsibility. Whether one looks at early proclamations or later seasons of national hardship, the consistent theme is simple: gratitude toward God is meant to be expressed, not assumed. It keeps perspective steady and prevents freedom from turning into entitlement. At its core, this kind of reflection isn’t just about looking backward—it’s about asking what we do with what we’ve been given today. Gratitude becomes a posture that influences how we live, serve, and treat one another right now. Highlights: Scripture invites believers to actively remember and proclaim God’s works Gratitude is a stabilizing force in how we view history and present blessings Public and personal thanksgiving have long shaped spiritual and cultural identity Freedom carries responsibility, not just privilege Remembering God’s faithfulness helps anchor perspective in the present Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: A Call to Be Thankful for America on Its 250th Anniversary By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “Give praise to the Lord, proclaim His name; make known among the nations what He has done.” - Psalm 105:1 As America celebrates its 250th Anniversary, we, as citizens of the United States, have much to be thankful for! History books record, and historical monuments stand, in honor of the Christians whom God led across the ocean, who were seeking a land where they could freely and openly serve Him, those willing to leave all they had behind and risk their lives to set sail for a New World. As the forerunners, the Pilgrims’ trek led them to America, where they brought their deep spiritual convictions to lay the groundwork and foundational biblical beliefs; truths that led our Founding Fathers to base our Declaration of Independence on godly principles; and truths that have given us the right to worship God freely and without reserve since their coming. Without our founders humbling themselves before God, there would be no USA today. As American history records, prayer and fasting were called for and practiced in America’s founding and the establishment of our nation, playing a major role in establishing America by the first patriots who practiced James 4:10 on a national level: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.” By our leaders calling our nation to humble itself before God in prayer and fasting, our founders followed 2 Chronicles 7:14, urging, “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.” By humbling ourselves as a nation, our leaders seemed to understand what Galatians 5:13 reminds us: “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” America’s History Reveals Decades of National Thankfulness Even before the official establishment of the United States, historical documents record that, throughout the American Revolution, the Continental Congress, in response to winning critical battles, called for national days of Thanksgiving, asking colonists to express gratitude to God for His divine protection over the troops. After the Declaration of Independence, national thanksgiving continued, beginning in 1789, with President George Washington issuing the first official United States Thanksgiving proclamation, calling upon all Americans to demonstrate gratitude to God for the end of the war and the Constitution’s successful ratification. President Washington said, “Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the Providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor.” Following Washington’s example, Presidents John Adams and James Madison also called for national days of Thanksgiving during their presidential terms. As well, President Abraham Lincoln, on October 3, 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, proclaimed the last Thursday in November as a national day of Thanksgiving. A Nation’s Living Testament to God’s Faithfulness The United States is a living testament to God’s faithfulness and to what happens when a nation is willing to humble itself before God… recognizing His sovereignty over the earth and publicly thanking Him for His protection and provision for its leaders and people. As citizens of the USA, we have much to be thankful to God for our nation, as we celebrate our 250th anniversary. Thankfulness to God for what He has done in America through the faith of our Founding Fathers, who feared and worshipped Him and laid a godly foundation for our land based on biblical truth, and whose beliefs continue to this day across our nation. Intersecting Faith & Life: As our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, ask God to help you find reasons to be thankful for our country, our godly heritage, and the freedoms we still enjoy today. As well, ask the Lord to move in the hearts of people across our nation, encouraging them to praise and thank Him for all that He has done for us as a country. Further Reading: A Prayer to Praise God for Our Nation Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Even the most ordinary parts of life can become heavy when repetition wears down our joy. Yet Scripture reminds us that joy is not dependent on circumstances—it is supplied by the God of hope. Romans 15:13 points us to a deeper reality: when we believe and trust Him, the Holy Spirit fills us with joy and peace that can exist even in the most routine, repetitive seasons. This kind of joy isn’t loud or flashy. It shows up in small, faithful moments—choosing gratitude over frustration, presence over complaint, and trust over fatigue. Over time, those small choices reshape how we experience everyday life, turning what feels mundane into something meaningful. Highlights: Joy and peace are gifts rooted in trusting God, not in ideal circumstances Monotony often reveals where we need renewed perspective and dependence on God Gratitude is a practical way to resist discouragement and complaint The Holy Spirit actively produces joy as we yield our attitudes to Him Even ordinary responsibilities can become meaningful when offered to God Join the Conversation Where in your daily routine do you feel most drained or disconnected from joy? What would it look like to invite God into those small, repetitive moments this week? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Finding Joy in the Mundane By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13, NASB). As a mother, I am reminded quickly how much I need God’s grace to make it through each day. Even though I thrive on tackling tasks ahead of me, so I can check them off my to-do list, I wrestle with the monotony of it and keeping a good attitude in front of my children. I have found myself starting my day in a pretty sour mood, dreading another day of the same routine. Realizing that is not Christ-honoring at all, I told my husband the other day that one thing I want my children to remember about me is how much I laughed, how joyful I was, no matter what. That isn’t my natural bent- I am more introspective and melancholy most of the time. Even though I am incredibly thankful to be a mother, the fruit of the spirit that seems to be a struggle for me to hold on to in this season of my life is joy. Instead of allowing my circumstances and personality to become excuses for my lack of a joyful outlook and demeanor, I must look to Christ and trust that He will fill me with joy and hope, even amid the boring, monotonous routines of life. For me, that is finding joy in serving my family. In his letter to the Romans, in chapter 15, the Apostle Paul speaks of self-denial on behalf of others, reminding them (and us) that Christ was a servant to His people and the Gentiles. This truth should cause us to glorify God and rejoice no matter what as we seek to serve others and share the gospel with hope and joy. Paul prays in Romans 15:13: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13, NASB). Intersecting Faith & Life: The scriptures encourage us and give us strength to persevere when we find ourselves discouraged, bored, or tempted to complain and grumble. As God’s children, we are not to grumble. We must remember that, ultimately, grumbling is complaining against the sovereign God of the universe and saying He isn’t good, which is sinful. When we complain or have a sour, ungrateful attitude, we should repent, reset our minds by thinking on things above, and rejoice and give thanks to God for His graciousness and goodness towards us. There are new mercies available to us every single morning. Perhaps it would be a beneficial habit to create a daily list of things that you are grateful for to help cultivate a heart of contentment and joy. Despite hardships and inconveniences in our lives and relationships, we are called to rejoice and find our joy in Christ alone and all that He has done for us. It all comes down to the attitude and posture of our heart, which God is shaping to look more like Jesus every day. The God of hope has given us Himself through the Holy Spirit, and the fruit of the Spirit are all available to us the more we yield to the Spirit instead of giving into our flesh that wars against the Spirit daily (Galatians 5:17). We can call upon the name of the Lord to cry out for help when we are tempted to complain and walk in ungratefulness, and He will empower us with His Spirit. He is our ever-present help in times of need and is faithful to strengthen us with His grace and fill us up with His peace, hope, and joy, even in the mundane. Although it is easy to find excuses for our behavior and mood, we must trust that God’s word is very clear about the posture of our hearts and attitudes, especially in difficult, stressful, or even mundane circumstances. The Lord cares about the condition of our hearts and the attitude that we exude because, as Christ followers, we are to look and behave differently from the world. People are watching all the time how we react when we are struggling under the weight of the cares of life. Do you need to ask the Lord to give you a hunger for more of His word? It is so important because this is where your mind is renewed; it helps us cultivate the fruit of the Spirit and walk in obedience with abundant joy and hope as you seek to serve Him and others. If you struggle with complaining about your mundane daily tasks, ask the Lord to help you guard your heart and avoid grumbling; He can help you find joy in all circumstances, even in your monotonous routine. May the joy of the Lord be your strength today! Further Reading: Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 James 1:2-4 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Scripture reminds us that rest is not something we manufacture—it is something we receive from God’s presence. Just as Moses needed reassurance before stepping into the unknown, we often need the same reminder: we are not navigating life alone. God goes with us, goes before us, and stays with us. His presence doesn’t remove every difficult decision, but it does remove the burden of carrying them alone. In that truth, rest becomes more than physical relief—it becomes spiritual confidence. Worry loses its grip when we remember that God already sees the outcome, already knows the path, and is actively guiding each step forward. Highlights: God’s presence is the foundation of true rest in uncertain seasons Feeling overwhelmed often comes from trying to carry decisions alone Like Moses, we are reassured that God goes with us into every situation Rest in God means releasing anxiety, second-guessing, and fear of failure Trust grows when we believe God is already ahead of our circumstances Join the Conversation Where in your life do you feel the need to slow down and trust God’s leading more fully? What would it look like to exchange anxiety for rest in His presence today? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: When You Long for Rest By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading:“And he said, ‘My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest’” (Exodus 33:14 ESV). Do you ever get tired of trying to solve all-consuming problems by yourself? It’s inevitable at times to lie awake at night, running through the options in our minds, and deliberating about what the best decision might be, and then worrying if that really is the best decision or direction. I was there recently, unsure about my next step. I had a number of options in front of me and didn’t want to overlook God’s best for what looked easier or more attainable. For a moment, I felt paralyzed. “God, what should I do”? I prayed aloud. “I feel so alone and lost in this.” As soon as I mouthed the words, I was convicted by the realization that I am never alone. God’s presence goes with me everywhere I go. He knows all about my situation, and He already sees the solution. And He is leading if I will just follow. I wonder if Moses, at one time, could relate. When Moses was charged to lead the Israelites into the land of Canaan, he was uncertain of his next step, too. Moses was hesitant because he believed the stubbornness of the Israelites would cause the Lord to decline going up to the land with them. I wonder if Moses, momentarily, thought he was on his own. Did he feel panicked or paralyzed? Scripture tells us in Exodus 13:12-13 that Moses said to the Lord, “See, you say to me, ‘Bring up this people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. Yet you have said, ‘I know you by name, and you have also found favor in my sight.’ Now therefore, if I have found favor in your sight, please show me now your ways, that I may know you in order to find favor in your sight.” God’s reply to Moses in verse 14 was short and sweet: “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” That was all Moses needed to hear and know. God’s presence would be with him, so he didn’t need to stress, worry, or fear. God had the next step, and the next one after that. And God would give him rest. Rest from feeling he had to do it on his own. Rest from having to make the correct decision. Rest from the burden, the pressure, the obligations, and the fear of failure. How many times have I feared a situation because I’ve forgotten that not only will God go with me, but His presence has already gone before me? How was this situation of mine any different? God would go with me, and He would give me rest. As Moses implied, God’s presence and His rest are evidence that I know Him, and He knows me and has taught me His ways. Intersecting Faith & Life: Our knowledge of God and trust in Him are evident in how we respond to difficulties and certain crossroads in our lives. Will we worry, stress, or quietly rest in His leading? Can you trust, regardless of what your situation looks like, that God knows you, He is intimately familiar with your situation, and His presence is going with you in your circumstances to guide you and get you through? Can you rest, not lie awake at night trying to figure it all out, because God already knows how to get you to where He wants you to be? Today, I will not be worried, stressed, or fearful because God’s presence goes with me and He will give me rest. His rest means no anxiety, no confusion, and no second-guessing what I should have done. He leads. He accompanies me. He provides peace and rest. And He can provide it for you too. Thank you, Lord God, that Your presence goes with us everywhere we go. And thank You for the assurance that You are familiar with all of our circumstances and all of our fears. We praise You today that Your presence means peace and rest. Further Study: Matthew 11:28-29 For a closer walk with God and daily reminders to rest in Him, see my newest book, The New Loneliness Devotional: 50 Days to a Closer Connection with God. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When we reflect on freedom, Scripture reminds us that true freedom is ultimately found in Christ. While earthly freedoms are worth recognizing and being thankful for, the greatest freedom we receive is the freedom Jesus provides—the freedom to worship God, share the Gospel, and live according to His truth. As we remember the history and sacrifices that shaped our nation, we can also reflect on the responsibility that comes with freedom: using it to honor God and serve others in love. Highlights: True freedom begins with the freedom Christ gives through salvation America’s founding was influenced by leaders who recognized God’s role in establishing liberty Freedom allows believers to worship, share the Gospel, and live openly for Christ Biblical freedom is not meant for selfish living but for serving others in love Remembering history invites us to thank God for those who courageously stood for freedom Join the Conversation As you reflect on 250 years of freedom as a nation, how do you see God’s hand at work throughout history? How can you use the freedoms you have today to honor God and serve those around you? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom as a Nation By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” - Galatians 5:1 Our Founding Fathers were a group who believed in God, the freedom He gives each of us, and His providence in establishing the United States of America. Although debates continue over how godly each one lived and how deeply they each believed in God, they still gave us a biblical basis for our nation, one that continues today. As the first Vice President and second President of the United States, John Adams wrote on July 3, 1776, to his beloved wife, Abigail, concerning the high cost of freedom paid to create the Declaration of Independence: “You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not—I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States—Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will triumph in that Days Transaction, even although we should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not.” Adams also credited the American Revolution’s success with the spiritual revival in the hearts and minds of the people that preceded it by a generation, laying the foundation for America. The spread of “The Great Awakening” across the colonies greatly influenced and strengthened Patriot leaders, leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence, in which prayer and fasting played a vital role in helping America establish its freedom. America is a testament of what God has done, leading America’s Founders to establish our nation and government on godly principles. These biblical truths have given us the freedom to live as followers of Jesus Christ without reserve. As Galatians 5:13 directs us, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” The following are three freedoms that America has granted us as Christians: America gives us freedom to openly worship God. First and foremost is the freedom America gives us to worship God. It’s our highest calling as Christians, and it’s the freedom that tops all the others because it’s also fulfilling the first commandment, recorded in Matthew 22:37-38: “Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.” America gives us freedom to openly preach the Gospel. In America, we have this freedom, like no other country in the world. As 2 Corinthians 3:17 explains, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” America gives us the freedom to openly live as Christians. We, as Americans, have been granted the right, as citizens, to live as Christians in the freedom Jesus gave us. As Jesus assured us in John 8:36, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” Although we, as Americans, fought for freedom from King George and British tyranny, proclaiming independence from their harsh reign, our independence was rooted in our dependence upon Almighty God and the freedom He gives us through Jesus Christ. Adams supported the spiritual awakening in our country, calling attention to and recognizing the connection between faith in God and freedom in life, validating where true freedom originates. Miracles in American History author, historian, and speaker, William J. Federer, writes, “In defending the Declaration, Adams told the Continental Congress, July 1, 1776: ‘Live or die, survive or perish, I am for the Declaration. It is my living sentiment, and by the blessing of God it shall be my dying sentiment. Independence now, and Independence forever!’” Intersecting Faith & Life: As we celebrate our nation’s 250 years of freedom this July 4th, consider our founders’ faith in God and the fortitude they displayed in standing on His truth amid conflict and tyranny. Spend time thanking God for their bravery and boldness in believing that true freedom comes from Him. Further Reading: How the Church Paved the Way for America’s Freedom Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When we step back and look closely at what love really is, it becomes clear that it’s far more than words, emotions, or routine phrases we say without thinking. True love is demonstrated through action, sacrifice, and consistency. Scripture points us to the ultimate example in Christ—who didn’t just speak love, but proved it through giving Himself for us while we were still undeserving. That kind of love reshapes how we understand God’s heart and how we extend love to others. Highlights: Love is more than words; it is demonstrated through action and truth God defines love through sacrifice, seen fully in Jesus on the cross Real love often involves giving, serving, and putting others before ourselves Biblical love is consistent even when people are imperfect or difficult Understanding God’s love changes how we love others in everyday life Join the Conversation How has your understanding of love changed through your faith journey? Where do you find it most challenging to love others in a sacrificial way, and what helps you reflect Christ’s love in those moments? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: A Proper View of LoveBy Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). Many of us grow up with an incorrect view of what love actually means. From an early age, we are taught that if someone says they love you, we are to say, “I love you” back, regardless of how we are feeling. Without giving these words much thought, we have lost the true meaning of love and its uniqueness in our lives. The word “love” has a deeper meaning than just a greeting, a goodbye, or a simple “I love (fill in the blank).” The meaning of love has been distorted by overuse. As believers, we need to understand what love is and avoid using it haphazardly. There is a time and place to say we love others, but we also need to show it in our actions. We are told in the Bible, “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth” (1 John 3:18). My mom used to say she loved me each morning before I went to elementary school, but she didn’t use the word “love” in a way that was repetitive or meaningless. When she said she loved me, she meant it, and she backed it up with her actions. Now, this is the key difference. The love my mom showed me was not just in her words. She also showed it through her actions and genuine concern for me. Whenever she would tell me she loved me and to have a good day at school, she truly meant it. The True Definition of Love The Apostle Paul tells us, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). God has shown in both His actions and words that He loves us. He didn’t only say He loves us, but rather, He left Heaven to die the death we deserved and pay our sin debt. Jesus did this out of the love He has for us. No one would die for someone they didn’t love with every fiber of their body. “Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:7-8). Jesus’ death on the cross demonstrates to us what real love looks like: sacrifice. Love is not all roses, beautiful dates, or perfect families. Real love is rooted in sacrificing our own needs for others. This is what real love looks like as it models the same love Jesus has for us. We will have to love others in their darkest times. For example, one of our friends might need support when they are going through alcohol or addiction recovery. Showing judgment toward them and not being there for them will only cause them to feel awful about themselves. However, if we model Jesus’ sacrificial love in our lives, we will be loving, caring, and compassionate toward them, and sacrifice our own plans to spend time with them. The Lord tells us, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). Living under a proper view of love will change our lives and ensure we love others as the Lord loves us. Praying to Jesus to help us practice sacrificial love will help us if we find it a difficult concept to fully embrace. God can transform our hearts and change them to reflect His own (Ezekiel 36:26). Intersecting Faith & Life: What is your definition of love? Has anyone modeled the love of Jesus for you in their life? Did this leave a lasting impact on you? How can you lean into the Lord’s love today? Further Reading: Jeremiah 31:3 John 3:16-18 1 John 4:10 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When life feels overwhelming and the goals ahead seem impossible, God reminds us that we don’t have to rely on our own strength alone. He is our strength when we feel weak and our shield when challenges, doubts, and setbacks come against us. Trusting God with our plans allows us to move forward with confidence, knowing He provides the help, protection, and guidance we need along the way. Highlights: God provides strength and protection when we face challenges that feel too big to overcome Trusting God means inviting Him into our goals instead of trying to accomplish everything alone Prayer keeps us connected to God’s guidance, wisdom, and provision God can protect us from discouragement, setbacks, and fear as we pursue His purposes Remembering God’s past faithfulness helps us trust Him with future challenges Join the Conversation What is one area of your life where you need God to be your strength and shield right now? How can trusting Him change the way you approach your goals, challenges, or uncertainties? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: God Will Be Your Strength and ShieldBy: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading:“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.” – Psalm 28:7, NIV My grandmother, Lena Wyckoff, founded a popular railroad history museum. The process took years and required her and other volunteers with the organization she founded to overcome many different challenges. But Grandma persisted because she said God inspired her to set the goal of starting the museum, and she was sure that he would help her every step of the way. As Grandma’s volunteer group made more and more progress, people started calling Grandma “the little engine who could,” after the main character in the classic children’s story “The Little Engine that Could” about a train engine that overcame challenges to pull a train over a mountain. Grandma loved her new nickname. But she let people know that the reason she could be “the little engine who could” was because she relied on God’s strength to help her. God also served as a shield for Grandma, protecting her from discouragement whenever a new challenge popped up along the way. Since Grandma trusted God to be her strength and shield, she was able to persist and finally achieve the goal God led her to set. Ever since the museum opened, it has attracted many visitors and brought joy to adults and children alike. What’s an important goal you’re trying to achieve in your own life? Whatever that goal is, it may feel like a mountain to you. You can see the peak, and you want to get there, but looking at the steep incline of challenges in front of you can discourage you from trying to make progress. Psalm 28:7 assures you that God will help you by being both your strength and your shield. You can rely on God to give you the strength you need as you work to achieve your goal. God will empower you, and there’s no limit to God’s power, so anything is possible to achieve when you’re trusting God. You can also count on God to protect you from anything harmful that’s headed your way – like unexpected setbacks, your own doubts, or criticism from other people – by being your shield. God will fuel your progress and protect you along the way as you work to achieve your goals. This verse shows trust at work when it says “... and he helps me.” It sounds so simple, doesn’t it? But how often do you actually stop and ask God for help? God cares about all of your goals, and he wants to help you achieve them. God is a loving Heavenly Father who really cares about all the details of your life. If it matters to you, it matters to God! If God has led you to set a goal that’s important to you, don’t just set it and then try to achieve it on your own. Instead, stay connected to God regularly through prayer and meditation, and ask God to help you while you work to make progress. God can open doors you can’t see, provide resources you didn’t know you needed, and give you a peace that makes the journey actually enjoyable. Psalm 28:7 ends with the author, King David, saying that his heart “leaps for joy” and that he’s praising God by singing. David is celebrating wholeheartedly because God has given him tremendous power and protection and helped him with everything he needed. Imagine how much stress you could let go of, and how much joy you could experience, if you trust God to help you achieve your goal. You won’t have to worry about any challenge that comes your way, because you’ll know that God is in control. So, take that big goal that feels like a mountain and hand it over to God. Don’t just ask God to bless your plans; ask him to be your strength and shield. Trust that God will help you, and rely on his help. As you do, in God’s timing, you’ll see your goal become a reality! Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider how God will be your strength and shield as you pursue your goals, reflect on these questions: What’s one important goal you’re currently working toward that feels overwhelming to handle on your own? In what ways have you been relying on your own strength lately, and how can you start relying more on God to empower you? What do you need God to protect you from right now so you can make progress on your goal? When you remember how God helped you achieve something important in the past, how does that change your perspective on your current goal? How can you invite God into your work this week to help you make progress toward achieving your goal? Further Reading:Psalm 121:1-2Philippians 4:13Isaiah 41:10Proverbs 3:5-62 Corinthians 12:9 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When we remember that God is watching over us, we can live with confidence instead of fear. His protection is not limited by what we can see—He is always present, guarding, guiding, and holding His children securely in His hands. Highlights: God’s protection reminds us that we are valuable and deeply cared for by Him Nothing happens outside of God’s awareness, even when circumstances feel uncertain Jesus promises that no one can take His children out of His hands Trusting God’s sovereignty brings peace when we face fear, injustice, or uncertainty We can find security knowing God watches over us and works for our good Join the Conversation Have you experienced a moment when God reminded you that you were safe in His care? How does knowing that God is always watching over and protecting you change the way you respond to fear or difficult circumstances? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: We Are Safe with God By Alexis A. Goring Bible Reading:“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” - John 10:10 NIV Have you ever felt unsafe but not worried because you knew there were people and systems in place to protect you? Did knowing this help you feel safe? When I worked in retail for a major department store, part of my orientation day was an introduction to the asset protection team, who operated inside a hidden room in that store. They had TV monitors mounted on a long wall, as well as other technology they used daily to watch all the customers to make sure nobody would steal anything that belonged to the store and get away with it. According to a Google search aided by AI, “Asset Protection (AP) teams in department stores protect assets, employees, and customers by preventing theft, fraud, and inventory loss (shrink) through surveillance, investigations, and safety training. They work in uniforms or plain clothes (store detectives), monitoring CCTV, patrolling floors, and collaborating with law enforcement to maintain a safe environment.” My exposure to how stores protect their products didn’t end there. A few years after working in retail, I noticed that another popular store started putting their facial cleanser products beyond glass cases that cannot be unlocked without assistance from a sales associate. When I asked why, they said people had started stealing these products, so they put them under lock and key to prevent theft. As I thought about these two experiences recently, I realized that this is similar to how God protects us. We are His most valuable assets on Earth, and He has gone to great lengths to protect us. God sends His Angels from Heaven to protect us from the devil, whose sole purpose is to steal, kill, and destroy us. But we have hope and security in God. The Bible says in John 10:28 (NIRV), “I give them eternal life, and they will never die. No one will steal them out of my hand.” We are safe in His hands. This reminds me of a popular Christian faith-based song with lyrics that remind us how the Creator of the Universe holds the whole world in His Hands. We serve a big and mighty God who is sovereign and always in control. He’s very protective of us as His treasured possessions, and nobody—devil, demon, forces of evil, and people who want to hurt us—can remove God’s hand of protection over us. Our Lord and Savior (Jesus Christ) cannot be defeated, and He promises to cover us all the days of our lives (Matthew 28:20). Nothing that happens on Earth goes unnoticed by God. The Bible says in Proverbs 15:3 (NIRV), “The eyes of the Lord are everywhere. They watch those who are evil and those who are good.” Just like that department store had a hidden place within the store to keep watch silently without any customer being aware they are under surveillance, the Lord Himself and His Angels are keeping watch over all humankind. They stay hidden from us in most cases, but they are very present in our world. And sometimes, they reveal their presence when necessary (Hebrews 13:2). So next time you feel like someone who hurt you is getting away with it or a crime is going unpunished, remember that God will work everything together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28) and vengeance is His (Romans 12:17-19). Also, remember what the Bible says in Hebrews 4:13-15 (NIV), “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” When we remember Biblical truth and apply it to our lives, this can help us have a peace that passes all understanding because we know God is in control, we are safe with Him, and nobody can snatch us out of His hand that covers us every moment of our lives on Earth. So, when you are afraid, run to Jesus. And if you are tempted to sin, remember God is watching you too. Make Him proud and do the right thing. In closing, I’d like for you to listen to the following songs: Song of Reflection #1: “Mercy Said No” by Cece Winans. Listen to it HERE. Song of Reflection #2: “Testimony” by Terrian. Listen to it HERE. Song of Reflection #3: “Safe” by Alisa Turner. Listen to it HERE. Song of Reflection #4: “Every Moment” by ForeverJones. Listen to it HERE. Intersecting Faith & Life: How does it feel to know that you are safe with God? Further Reading:Deuteronomy 32:35Psalm 46:1-11Psalm 91:1-16Psalm 121:1-82 Thessalonians 3:3 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Following Jesus was never meant to be a performance we perfect—it is a relationship we cultivate. The pressure to be a “good Christian” can leave us exhausted when we measure our faith by our accomplishments, routines, or ability to do everything right. But Jesus does not invite the weary to try harder; He invites them to come to Him and find rest. Spiritual growth is not about earning God’s approval through endless activity. God’s love is already given through Christ, and our obedience flows from that relationship rather than trying to achieve it. When faith becomes a checklist instead of a connection, we lose sight of the freedom and peace Jesus offers. Highlights: Following Jesus is about relationship, not religious performance God’s love and approval are not earned through productivity or perfection Jesus offers rest to those who feel burdened by expectations and pressure Spiritual disciplines are meant to draw us closer to God, not become a way to prove ourselves True growth happens as we remain connected to Christ and trust His work in us Join the Conversation Have you ever felt the pressure to be a “good Christian” by doing more or achieving more? What would it look like to simply come to Jesus today and rest in His presence? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: The Pressure to Be a “Good Christian” and Why You Can Let It GoBy Sarah Frazer Bible Reading:“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” - Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) Never enough. It was something my heart repeated to itself on a regular basis. For so many years, I never felt good enough. I felt that if I did more, performed better, added to my to-do list, God would be pleased with me. During those years, I tried so hard to be a “good Christian.” I went to church, prayed, served, and said yes to every request. What does it mean to be a “good Christian”? I never bothered to ask that question until one day my life began to spiral into depression, uncertainty, and my faith was tested. One day, I realized that suffering and heartache would come whether I was doing life right or not. Whether I was a good Christian or not, pain still happened. What I needed during those months and, yes, years, of heartache, was not a routine but a relationship. Not until I was forced to reexamine my life did I see where I had misstepped. Somewhere along the way, following Jesus started to feel like something I need to manage instead of a relationship to cultivate. Without realizing it, I started measuring my faith by what I was doing instead of who I was becoming. Because of life’s circumstances, I didn’t have time to spend hours with God in the morning, or really anytime during my day. I would look at the perfect pictures of women online and how they didn’t seem to struggle. My faith seemed so small, and it was hard to believe God was happy with me. Because so much of my life depended on my service to God, having to step away or say no made me think, “Is God disappointed in me?” We may never say it out loud, but many of us carry a quiet belief: If I were a better Christian, I would be doing more. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus doesn’t add to our pressure—He relieves it: “Come to me… I will give you rest… My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” As we look towards Jesus, we don’t see someone who wants the perfect person; we don’t come to Jesus having it all put together. The burdens we feel to be a good Christian are not from Him. Jesus says those who come to Him, who are welcome, are those who are weary, tired, and feel like they are crushed. The voice of Jesus calling us to come to Him is not a voice of pressure, but one offering peace. Our culture - even within the religious community - is one obsessed with productivity. Multitasking is a superpower. We love it if we can accomplish more than one thing at a time. This mindset has invaded the church. We have begun to misunderstand the spiritual disciplines as a way to perform, to gain God’s favor, and to win heaven. What started as a desire to grow can slowly turn into a need to prove. This is where we find ourselves weary. This is when we come to Jesus. Coming to Jesus is relational, not transactional. We come to Him, not to perform, but to be present with Him. As we walk with Jesus, we take His yoke, but the thing is - we share the weight. Growth is about connection. We learn from Him, and eventually we rest in Him. In John 15:5, Jesus said that we can only bear fruit if we abide in Him. Being a “good Christian” isn’t about being perfect in our actions or our feelings. We do not need to always feel close to God, nor do we need to spend hours studying His Word, praying, or serving him. Serving God comes from an overflow of His power, not in our own strength. Jesus invites us to be “good Christians” as we return again and again to Him. We trust Jesus with our weaknesses and stay connected to Him, even if it can seem imperfect. He is waiting. He is willing. Every day His mercies are new, and we are invited into a relationship with him. A relationship is not a to-do list. It isn’t something we can measure either. A “good Christian” isn’t someone who gets everything right—it’s someone who keeps coming back to Jesus. Intersecting Faith & Life: It’s easy to carry the pressure of performance into our faith without even realizing it. In a world that values productivity and visible results, we can begin to measure our relationship with God the same way—by what we do instead of simply being with Him. But spiritual growth isn’t always loud or measurable. Often, it happens quietly—in small moments of returning, trusting, and staying connected, even when it feels imperfect. What would it look like today, instead of trying to do more for God, you simply came to Him? How can you take one step closer to God? Further Reading:Psalm 103:13-14Luke 18:13-14John 15:5Galatians 1:10Romans 8:1 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.