The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

Have you ever faced something new—whether a trip, job, or big decision—and felt both excited and a little afraid? In today’s devotional, we’re reminded that no matter where we go or what we face, we’re never alone. God isn’t just sending us out—He’s going with us. Drawing from Psalm 139 and a personal story about traveling through the Middle East, Whitney Hopler unpacks how God’s presence is unshakable, even in unfamiliar places. Whether your next journey is physical, emotional, or spiritual, you can walk boldly into it knowing that the Creator of the universe is not just beside you—He’s already ahead of you. ✨ Key Takeaways 🗺️ God is already where you're going — and He’s not leaving your side🧳 New opportunities can feel uncertain, but His presence makes them possible🕊️ Whether you're in a foreign land or facing a new role, God travels with you👐 You are never out of reach from His hand—He holds you fast🚶 Courage grows when you trust that God walks every step with you 🔁 Intersecting Faith and Life What new thing is God nudging you toward? Are fear or uncertainty holding you back from stepping into it? How can you daily remind yourself that God is already present in the places you fear most? 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: God Goes with You By: Whitney Hopler “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.” – Psalm 139:7-10, NIV Before our family took a trip I’d planned to the Middle East, a family member told me she was worried that we would be in danger there. She asked me to consider canceling the trip because of ongoing conflicts in that part of the world. But we went ahead with the trip. It was a pilgrimage I believed God was leading us to take. While we were there, we saw soldiers with guns in the streets, and we even saw smoke rising in the distance from an active conflict across a border. But we never worried that we weren't safe, because God had led us there – and even more importantly, God was with us there. Have you ever stood on the edge of a new opportunity, and felt a mix of excitement and fear? The unknown has a way of stirring up uncertainty. You may wonder if you’re truly ready to step into that opportunity. Maybe you sense God leading you to take a leap of faith, but you wonder if something will go wrong because you’re alone and unable to manage a situation on your own. Psalm 139:7-10 encourages you with a powerful truth: You are never alone! King David, who wrote Psalm 139, described noticing God’s presence in awe-inspiring ways. No matter where David thought of going, he knew God was already there. If he soared to the heavens, God was there. If he found himself in the deepest abyss, God was there. Even if he traveled to the farthest reaches of the sea, he knew God would still be there with him, as well. God’s presence isn’t limited by space or time. There is no place too far, no environment too foreign, and no situation too overwhelming for God. Whether you find yourself in a busy city or in a remote wilderness, God will be there. If you visit a foreign country, someone who knows you well – your Heavenly Father – will be there. When you’re not traveling to a new physical place but are simply stepping into a new opportunity at work, church, or home, God will be there. God has already gone before you, preparing the way, and he will be with you in every step you take. You can count on the fact that God goes with you, anywhere and anytime! So, if you want to explore a new opportunity God is making possible – either far away on a trip, or locally through a new challenge at home, work, or church – don’t be afraid to go for it! When you travel, you won’t be alone. God’s Holy Spirit will be with you on the plane, in the car, on the train, and wherever you go. When you take on a new challenge nearby like a new project or role, God will be right beside you as you step into that opportunity. God doesn’t send you anywhere alone. He walks beside you, ahead of you, and even behind you, covering you in his love! Even if you encounter unexpected challenges – like delays or obstacles – God will still be there. He is always available, ready to listen to your prayers and respond by giving you what you need in any situation. Just like Psalm 139 says, God’s hands will guide you and hold you fast. You’re in God’s hands, and there’s no better place to be. So, what’s holding you back? Don’t let fear of the unknown prevent you from taking the journey God wants you to take. Step forward with the confidence that wherever you go, God goes with you! Intersecting Faith and Life As you consider how God goes with you wherever you go, reflect on these questions: What new opportunity do you sense God may be leading you to move into? Are you excited, afraid, or a mix of both emotions? When was a time that you experienced God’s presence in an unfamiliar or challenging place? How did that give you confidence and help you trust God there? How can you remind yourself daily that God goes with you wherever you go? Further Reading Deuteronomy 31:8 Joshua 1:9 Matthew 28:20 Romans 8:38-39 Isaiah 41:10 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Sometimes what we think we see clearly is actually being filtered through a distorted lens — whether it’s our perspective on life, suffering, or even God. In this episode, we reflect on spiritual blindness, drawing from a powerful story about a child’s first experience seeing trees clearly — and how it mirrors our own journey from blurry spiritual sight to eternal clarity. With Jesus as our healer and restorer, we’re reminded that it’s not just our eyes that need correction — it’s our hearts. Through Scripture and real-life parallels, today’s devotional invites you to shift your gaze from what is temporary to what truly lasts: the unseen and eternal promises of God. ✨ Key Takeaways 👓 Spiritual blindness often goes unnoticed — until we truly “see”🌲 Our perception is shaped by what we focus on — and that can be distorted by the world💡 Jesus restores sight both physically and spiritually🕊️ Shifting our eyes from the temporal to the eternal brings peace, perspective, and hope⏳ Today is a gift — how would you live differently if you saw it through eternity’s lens? 🔁 Intersecting Faith and Life What in your life are you seeing through a blurry lens right now? Are you focusing more on what’s fading or on what’s everlasting? How would your choices shift if you saw today as a stepping stone toward eternity? 📚 Further Reading 2 Corinthians 4 John 9:35–41 Mark 8:22–25 Matthew 6:22–23 Hebrews 12:2 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: What Do You See? By Megan J. Conner “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Cor. 4:18 (NIV) One day, while riding in the car with my mother-in-law, she shared a story with me from her younger parenting years, when she unexpectedly discovered her only daughter needed glasses. Apparently, at the time, my sister-in-law was so accustomed to the vision she was born with that it took years for anyone to recognize her eyesight was rather poor. It was all she had known, so she compensated for her unrealized lack of clarity without much notice. Once her challenges were revealed, she was taken to an eye doctor and properly diagnosed. Glasses were ordered, and they waited anxiously for the frames to come in. After the fitting was complete, my mother-in-law buckled her young daughter back into the car, and they headed home. As they were driving, she heard from the backseat, “Mommy… is that what trees look like?!” All this time, her vision had been so blurred, she had no idea trees were comprised of individual leaves. Sometimes, it can be exactly the same for us. What we believe is seen with clarity is actually viewed through a distorted lens. The Bible is full of literal and metaphorical references to blindness. There are countless stories where individuals are plagued with this physical limitation. One example can be found in the gospel of Mark. “They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he had spit on the man’s eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, ‘Do you see anything?’ He looked up and said, ‘I see people; they look like trees walking around.’ Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly.” Mark 8:22-25 (NIV) Through this miraculous work, Jesus grants the blind man the gift of literal sight, demonstrating His restorative power in this world. However, there are also several biblical examples referencing those who are spiritually sightless. John shares another version of this same healing account in his gospel, followed by an investigation conducted by the Pharisees. During His interaction with the religious leaders of the day, Jesus declared their souls were darkened and lacked sight. “Jesus said, ’For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.’ Some Pharisees who were with him heard him say this and asked, ‘What? Are we blind too?’ Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.” John 9:35-41 (NIV) Though invisible to the naked eye, spiritual blindness can be more detrimental than the complete loss of physical eyesight. When faced with the severity of sin’s effects, Jesus challenged listeners to gouge out their own eyes if their vision was drawing them into spiritual darkness during his Sermon on the Mount in Matt. 5:29. Sounds a bit overdramatic to our modern-day senses, right? But Jesus is highlighting the value of the eternal versus the temporal. We all have mortal bodies. One day, they will pass away. So, while we may struggle with aging, illness, or other limitations on earth, ultimately, our physical beings will pass away. There is nothing any of us can do to prevent that outcome. However, our spirits will endure. They are eternally precious. They will never pass away. Doesn’t that truth shift our perspectives? When Paul shares our key scripture in today’s devotional from 2 Corinthians, he calls his readers to patiently endure and hold on to courage while encountering worldly suffering. He exhorts them to look beyond their “light and momentary afflictions” towards that which endures beyond time – to look towards eternity. When we lift up our eyes to heaven, a new light shines upon our difficult or undesirable circumstances. For there is where we find hope. It is there we see a promised home and future. Let us “…fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Cor. 4:18 (NIV) Intersecting Faith & Life: Have you been struggling to see the forest through the trees in your life circumstances? How does shifting your focus from the temporal to the eternal inspire hope or offer peace? One of the practices that dramatically changed my fixation on that which is fading away was considering how I would handle today if I knew it was my final day on this planet. Would I spend it obsessing and worrying about all of the things I cannot control or wallowing in my perceived lack instead of recognizing my blessings? No, I would treasure moments with the ones I love most and celebrate the gift of the present while focusing on an eternity spent with the Lord in the future. How will you change the way you see the gift of today? Further Reading: 2 Cor. 4 John 9 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

we dive into a direct and deeply reflective question Jesus asked a man who had been unwell for 38 years: “Do you want to get well?” This isn’t just about physical healing — it’s about soul healing too. Many of us know what needs to change in our spiritual lives, but instead of action, we offer excuses. Like the man at the pool, we may have valid challenges — but that doesn't mean we're powerless. ✨ Key Takeaways ✅ Excuses feel safe, but they keep us stuck✅ Jesus meets us in our stuck places — but He invites us to move✅ Spiritual growth isn’t passive — it takes intention, repetition, and surrender✅ Time with God is never wasted — it's what fuels real transformation✅ Intimacy with God requires space, silence, and a commitment to be present 🔁 Intersecting Faith and Life What excuses have you been making that are stunting your spiritual growth? Are there rhythms in your day you can repurpose for time with God (your commute, morning routine, evening wind-down)? Who can walk alongside you and help keep you spiritually accountable? 📚 Further Reading Proverbs 16:9 James 4:8 Matthew 6:33 Psalm 46:10 Romans 12:1–2 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Do You Want to Be Well? “When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?” John 5:6 “You should go to the doctor.” I urged a friend to go to the doctor since he hadn't had any blood work or a wellness checkup. He needed to maintain his physical health, including having an annual checkup and blood work. When the blood work returned that he had some areas he needed to improve, he made excuses. He didn't have time to make a healthy dinner. His job didn't allow him to have a break to go to the gym. He didn't need medication; he could fix his issues on his own. Excuse after excuse abounded. Although he did tweak his diet, it wasn't enough to significantly improve his numbers. After one try, he gave up. Unfortunately, this is quite common among people. Jesus saw this in his day. A man who had hung out at the pool for a long time made every excuse for not getting well. Because he was blind, it was difficult for him to get to the pool alone. But he could have easily asked someone else for help. He could have someone bring the water to him. Someone could have created a way to carry him to the pool. This is why Jesus asked him this poignant question. So many of us know what to do during spiritual growth, but few do the work required to grow in that area. We often fuel our prayer time with excuses rather than the hard work and dedication it takes to grow in the Lord truly. Excuses can sound like: I have a stressful job, so I don't have time to read my Bible. I get home too late from work to cook a healthy dinner. The Lord can heal me instantaneously; I don't have to care for my body. I prayed while I was on my ride to work. That's all I have time for. It's these excuses that keep us from actual spiritual growth. Jesus went to the man. He didn't allow his excuses to prevent him from healing him completely. While it is true that Jesus comes to us in our time of need, we must work to grow spiritually. And we must read the Bible more than once a week. Weekly church attendance is not enough to supplement our spiritual walk. We not only need to pray, but we also need to stay silent and be ready to hear his still, small voice. Do you make excuses when it comes to your spiritual walk? Do you justify why you don't read the Bible often? Do you tell yourself you don't have time to pray and hear God's voice? We are all motivated by certain desires. If we're not careful, these desires for money, power, fame, possessions, or anything else will quickly rule our lives. Soon, the necessary spiritual work to increase our growth will fall by the wayside as we aim to chase after all the worldly things of life. Analyze your spiritual walk. Where can you cut precious time to spend with the Lord in your schedule? Can you turn off the television at the end of the night? Can you pray when you first get up in the morning? When you arise, dedicate your day to the Lord. Ask him to go before you in every area. Ask him not to allow you to get too distracted by life. Allow him to keep you focused on the work you are equipped to do. The more you practice prayer with God, the more intimate you'll become. If you want to be intimate with God, you must make space for it. Stop making excuses and dedicate your time to the Lord. Let him guide and direct your steps. You may be surprised that you are more productive during the day than you thought, but you are busy doing things you never would have anticipated because God is directing your steps. Father, help us stop making excuses about our spiritual growth. Allow your Holy Spirit to penetrate our hearts, transform us physically, emotionally, and mentally, and allow the spiritual growth that results to allow us to exemplify more of Christ. Amen. Intersecting Faith and Life What is one step you can take today to increase your intimacy with God? Are there people who can help move you further in your walk with God? Further Reading Proverbs 16:9 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

we’re reminded through Psalm 147:1-5 that God sees the brokenhearted, binds their wounds, and lovingly gathers the outcast. His love doesn't discard — it restores. Healing might take time, but you’re never walking through the process alone. ✨ Key Takeaways 💡 God gathers the outcast — you are never beyond His reach or concern💡 He binds up wounds that others can't see and that you may carry silently💡 Jesus moves toward the rejected, never away from them (John 9:35)💡 Healing from deep relational hurt often takes time, but God walks with you each step💡 God's love and faithfulness are rooted in His character, not your past 🌿 Intersecting Faith & Life Have past wounds distorted how you view God’s love for you? What truths from Scripture can you speak over your emotions when feelings of rejection or shame rise up? Could journaling through key verses about God's love and pursuit help reshape how you see yourself in His eyes? What would it look like to let God into those places you’ve long kept closed? 📖 Further Reading Jeremiah 31:1–14 | Romans 8:1–4, 31–39 | Isaiah 61:1–3 | John 9:1–38 | 2 Corinthians 5:17 💬 Join the Conversation Have you experienced God’s healing in a season of emotional or relational pain? Your story can be a lifeline for someone else. Share with us @LifeAudioNetwork or on Crosswalk.com — and let’s keep encouraging each other to trust the God who gathers, heals, and restores. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Praise the Lord!For it is good to sing praises to our God;For it is pleasant and praise is beautiful.2 The Lord builds up Jerusalem;He gathers the outcasts of Israel.3 He heals the brokenheartedAnd binds up their [e]wounds.4 He counts the number of the stars;He [f]gives names to all of them.5 Great is our Lord and abundant in strength;His understanding is [g]infinite (Psalm 147:1-5, NAS). When I first read this passage, particularly verse two, it hit deep and brought me to tears. After an intensely painful year that revealed some significant cracks in some of my closest relationships, exacerbated some of my unhealed wounds, and intensified remnants of dysfunction with me, I sought help from a therapist. With her help, I came to recognize ways in which I became the scapegoat in my family of origin. That role, and circumstances it created, caused me to feel perpetually rejected and abandoned. I felt like the unwanted, discarded child left to navigate life alone. In times of pain and stress, those old wounds, and the lies attached to them, pushed to the surface. This used to cause me to react from a place of brokenness, rather than empowered by grace. But I’m no longer the throw away kid because I belong to the God who gathers the outcast. While the Psalmist was likely referring to God’s people, once exiled to Babylon, his words reveal a powerful truth regarding our Savior’s heart. He sees when others treat us poorly and as if we lack worth. He sees the shame lurking in our souls and that holds us captive. He knows precisely how deep every cruel statement and every hurtful act cut. And He moves toward us in our pain. He seeks us out and draws us close. I’m reminded of an event recorded in John 9. To paraphrase, one day, Jesus encountered and healed a man born blind. This miracle left everyone amazed. Astounded, they brought him to the religious leaders who questioned him as to how he’d received his sight. After a tense conversation that probably felt more like an inquisition, the Pharisees declared, “You were steeped in sin at birth …” (John 9:34a, NIV). They basically called him cursed by God, implying that he had deserved his blindness. But notice verse 35: “Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” (NIV). Jesus sought the rejected man out and invited him into an intimate, life-giving relationship with the perfectly loving, always present, eternally faithful Savior. Because again, the Lord gathers the outcasts. Then, as we rest in His strong yet tender embrace, His Spirit within us heals and binds up our wounds. His love makes us whole. Granted, this rarely occurs instantly, or quickly for that matter. Often, His reparation work takes a lifetime. But today’s passage assures us that we don’t have to remain stuck in our brokenness. We don’t have to walk through life feeling like an outcast. We can receive the healing we need to become all God created us to be and to do all He’s called us to do. Intersecting Life and Faith Those of us who grew up feeling unvalued, unseen, and unwanted can unknowingly project those states into our present relationships, including with God. The unhealed places within us can distort our perception, making it hard to trust and receive God’s steadfast love. When we land in that lonely place, may we prayerfully reflect upon passages like today’s. Not so that we can deny or suppress our feelings but rather, so that we can inform our emotions with truth. Regardless of how we feel, this is truth: God loves us with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3). God’s faithfulness toward us is not dependent on our faithfulness toward Him. Rather, it’s rooted in His unchanging character (Romans 5:8, 20). The Lord pursues us, always and forever (Ezekiel 34:11; Isaiah 65:1-3). Our Father longs to heal our most wounded places, and does so as we yield to Him (2 Corinthians 5:17; Isaiah 61:1-2). Our Redeemer can rebuild what sin has shattered and replace the ashes in our lives with beauty (Isaiah 61:3) If you’re struggling with a fear of abandonment or shame that causes you to feel distant from God and doubt His constant and unconditional love, consider journaling on the verses just referenced. Ask God to help your soul to receive those words and to use them to heal your most wounded places. Further Reading: Jeremiah 31:1-14 Romans 8:1-4, 31-39 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Aaron D’Anthony Brown challenges us to reflect honestly on how well we really know God. True intimacy with Him isn’t just about worship on Sundays — it’s about staying close when life feels upside down. Knowing God deeply means choosing Him in every season, especially the hard ones. ✨ Key Takeaways 💡 Saying we know God is different than truly trusting Him in trials💡 Our faith can grow cold if we stop praying, reading, and staying connected to God💡 Knowing God requires consistent relationship — not just when life feels good💡 Scripture helps us learn God’s heart and equips us for seasons of doubt💡 Reminders of truth (verses, prayers, routines) help us return to God when we wander 🌿 Intersecting Faith & Life When was the last time you felt close to God? What was different about that season? How can you build rhythms into your life — like daily prayer or scripture reading — that keep your relationship with God strong? What truths do you need to write down or post somewhere to keep your mind focused on who God is? How might preparing spiritually during “good times” help you stand firm when hard times come? 📖 Further Reading Psalm 27:4 | Romans 5:8 | Jeremiah 29:11 | Hebrews 10:23 | John 15:4 💬 Join the Conversation What’s one way you’ve learned to stay connected to God when life feels heavy? Share your experience with us @LifeAudioNetwork or on Crosswalk.com — your story might encourage someone walking through their own valley. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Knowing God By Aaron D’Anthony Brown“But even the hairs of your head have all been counted. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Matthew 10:30-31, CSB) How well do you know God? Your immediate answer might be something approving but give the question some thoughtful consideration. There’s a young woman I know, a college student, who grew up in church. Her father was a preacher, and her mother was the church’s librarian. She read plenty and sang plenty. If you asked her at the time, she would have told you that she knew God. Not only that, but her relationship with Him was also seemingly tight. Then time passed. She applied for college and did not get into the music school she wanted. Other things started to happen. Other bad things. Suddenly, she was on a path she never requested. Ever since, the woman who once knew God now often only mentions His name as an exclamation or joke. Time after time, I’ve witnessed believers much like her who see themselves as having a profoundly deep relationship with God, and then something terrible happens, and that faith vanishes. I’ve noticed this trend even within myself. We claim we know God, but when crap hits the fan, we forget who He is. We stop trusting, stop praying, stop hoping in the one who gives peace. From there, we turn to our vices, idols, and fellow sinners. While we may like to say we know God well, a more apt answer would be not well enough. If we knew God well, why wouldn’t we always trust Him? He’s always good, isn’t He? Thankfully, there are sure ways to amend this flawed mindset. Intersecting Faith & Life: Finding intimacy with God means knowing Him both when life is great and when life feels terrible. Let’s devise some practical steps to put that idea into practice. Pray Without Ceasing Scripture tells us to pray always. If nothing can separate us from God’s love and He always wants a relationship with us, then there is no good reason to ever stop praying. Prayer is how we communicate, give thanks, make petitions, and in essence, draw closer to Him. Think about your relationships with other people. When you stop talking to friends regularly, there’s a chance that you will grow apart and, at the very least, you won’t think about them as often. We’re not on this Earth to think about God a little or only when convenient. Knowing God is a full-time activity, and prayer helps establish the routine. Read Scripture Taking time to read your Bible will not only make you wiser but will teach you God’s character. From the beginning of the book to the end, we are given insight into what God loves and what He hates, what He expects us to do, and what He wants us to avoid. What we also discover are truths about what knowing God actually means. Truths that help us commit to the act and remind us of the benefits. Remind Yourself If you’re a believer, then the idea of knowing God will seem appealing at face value, and most of the time, that may be the case. However, one way to prepare for those seasons of adversity is to have a game plan in place. During those times, knowing God won’t seem as appealing. Neither will prayer nor reading the Bible. That’s when we forget how good God is, and we stray away from our callings. While not good, that’s certainly normal. We’re humans and sinful. Yet, regardless of how or why we forget, the solution is the same. Remember. We can remind ourselves of truth by studying God’s Word and committing verses to memory. Write them down. Post them somewhere. Set alerts on your phone. Read the Bible with someone and quiz one another. The more we consistently know, the less we will forget. Think back to being in school. When you’re going through the motions of homework and quizzes, the information is ingrained. When education stops, and you’re no longer putting things into practice, that’s when concepts start to fade. Let’s not allow that to happen in our relationship with God. Instead, let’s strive to know Him daily and throughout every season. We won’t regret that decision. Further Reading: Psalm 27:4 Romans 5:8 Jeremiah 29:11 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Ever feel overwhelmed by what’s ahead and unsure how you’ll manage it all? In today’s devotional, Keri Eichberger reflects on John 14:5–6 and reminds us that Jesus doesn’t just show us the way — He is the way. When we stay close to Him, we don’t have to figure it all out alone. He’ll guide us, strengthen us, and walk with us every step of the way. ✨ Key Takeaways 💡 Jesus isn’t simply giving you directions — He is the path through your challenges💡 God doesn’t open doors without also providing what you need to walk through them💡 Your inner doubts don’t cancel out your divine calling💡 Even when you feel underqualified, God’s presence qualifies you💡 Faith means trusting that where God leads, He also equips 🌿 Intersecting Faith & Life Are you facing a new opportunity or responsibility that feels like too much? What would it look like to rely on God’s strength rather than your own today? In what areas have you seen God make a way for you in the past — and how can that encourage your next steps? What small prayer or reminder could help ground you when doubts rise up? 📖 Further Reading Isaiah 30:21 | Proverbs 16:9 | Psalm 32:8 | Philippians 4:13 | Romans 8:14 💬 Join the Conversation Where has God shown up for you when you didn’t see a way forward? Share your story with us @LifeAudioNetwork or on Crosswalk.com. Let’s keep encouraging each other to trust Jesus — the Way, the Truth, and the Life. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: God Will Make a Way Because He is the Way By Keri Eichberger Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life.” (John 14:5-6) I feel something brewing. Some fresh glimmers of hope and encouraging change on the horizon. And following a slow stretched out season of what has felt like the same ole, same ole, laced with increased chronic pain, dwindling energy, and swelling isolation, any potential change is welcome. And I give God all the glory for the prospective opportunities that have arisen, including promising pain relief. But even still, there’s this thick thorn that remains in my side. A raging roadblock in my spirit, weighing me down and instilling doubt. It’s the narrative in my inner being. Words of insufficiency and incompetence and flat out inability. I’ve been praying relentlessly for God to work in me and through me—to show me his way. And he has certainly opened some sun-shiny doors. But if I’m being honest, I just can’t see how I can carry out and work through all the things he seems to be calling me to. Do you ever wonder how you will conquer the quests in front of you? How you’ll take on the commitments you’ve committed to. How you’ll take the steps toward the dream opportunities stirring up desire within you? Or just wonder how you'll do it all well? I do. I asked myself, Where will I find the time, the energy, and the mental and emotional capacity? I bet you’ve had similar thoughts. But, I think we are neglecting a truth amidst these circumstances and contemplations. If God truly is the one leading us to these things, won’t he also lead us through these things? I read a familiar verse the other morning in my devotion time, and it spoke truth directly to my wondering wearying heart. In verse five of Chapter 14, in the book of John, the disciple Thomas says to Jesus, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Which is a sentiment many of us feel when we’ve come to a confusing crossroads of potential choices, tasks, or opportunities, joined with what seems to be a lack of ability, margin, and resources. We might ask God, What is all this, and how am I supposed to handle it? But as I kept reading, it was my fresh perspective to the first statement of the following verse—that is so very familiar to us as Christians—that fueled my confidence in the answer to the “how will I manage” thoughts. Verse six reads, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life.’” Jesus is the way. When we don’t know, or can’t see, the way forward and through. Jesus is the way forward and through. To me, this means that as long as I remain in him and with him, and he is thus also in me and with me, I don’t have to fear my faithful steps and choices. Because the way through will be with me. He will make a way, because he is the way. And he is in me. Just like he is in you. Intersecting Faith and Life: Friend, the Lord led you to where you are. He opened the perfect doors, and he carved the precise path. So keep following him closely, and remain in him always. He will sufficiently strengthen you, steer you, and supply for you all that you need. All the way. Because our sovereign loving Lord is… the way. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Elijah’s story reminds us that God’s provision often shows up in the most unexpected places—and through the most unlikely people. Whether it’s ravens delivering meals or a desperate widow offering her last meal, the message is the same: God is faithful, even when the method doesn’t make sense. ✨ Key Takeaways 💡 Obedience opens the door to provision. Elijah didn’t question God’s instructions—he obeyed, even when the command defied logic.💡 God prepares us in private before stretching us in public. Time spent in quiet reliance (like Elijah at the brook) builds faith for bold obedience later.💡 God meets others’ needs through our obedience. Elijah’s faith not only sustained him but revived hope in a grieving, starving mother.💡 Provision isn’t always comfortable. God sent Elijah to a hostile region, into the home of a Gentile, yet there—His provision waited.💡 God specializes in showing up in our lack. When the widow had nothing left, that’s when God showed up and multiplied her resources. 🌿 Intersecting Faith & Life Have you ever felt like God was calling you to something that didn’t make sense on paper? Where in your life are you relying more on logic than obedience? How might your step of faith spark hope or provision in someone else’s life? 📖 Further Reading Philippians 4:19 | Psalm 23:1-6 | Luke 12:24 🎙️ Don’t miss an episode of The Crosswalk Devotional — your daily encouragement to trust, obey, and lean into God’s goodness, no matter the season. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: 2 Then the word of the Lord came to Elijah: 3 “Leave here, turn eastward and hide in the Kerith Ravine, east of the Jordan. 4 You will drink from the brook, and I have directed the ravens to supply you with food there.” 7 Some time later the brook dried up because there had been no rain in the land. 8 Then the word of the Lord came to him: 9 “Go at once to Zarephath in the region of Sidon and stay there. I have directed a widow there to supply you with food.” 1 Kings 17:2-8 Imagine losing your job and all of your savings in a nonexistent job market and sensing God say, “Go to an empty warehouse in west Las Vegas, an area notorious for gangs and drug users, and ask a woman sleeping in a back corner on the floor for food.” Would you obey, or would you question your ability to hear the Lord’s voice? And what if reaching that place required a long, solitary walk, during which you had ample time to feed your doubts, questions, and anxiety, or to practice a sacred silence in which to draw closer to God and receive His assurance and much needed confirmation for your journey. I wonder how Elijah, the Old Testament prophet introduced in 1 Kings 17, used his 75-90 mile trek, which likely took several days, on foot, from the Kerith Ravine to Zarephath, in the pagan land of Sidon. Did he wrestle with doubt? He had ample reason to do so. First, this occurred during a drought severe enough to cause the brook where he’d been resting to dry up, and God had instructed him to embark on a physically demanding journey that would’ve burned at least 75,000 calories and made him quite thirsty. Third, God told him to go to Queen Jezebel’s hometown. She was a wicked woman married to the equally wicked Ahab, king of Israel. Fourth, the people of Sidon considered Baal, a false god believed to govern the sky and weather the most important deity. And lastly, a widow would’ve been the least likely person to support a hungry man, at any time, let alone during a drought-induced famine! Based on what we read in Scripture, however, Elijah appears to obey God without hesitation or question. No doubt, his time at the brook during which the Lord fed him, miraculously, through ravens, prepared him for the faith-filled journey that followed. I find it equally intriguing that God used a bird He’d previously declared unclean. Did He do so to prepare Elijah to enter a pagan land, accept food from a, presumably, pagan woman, and, later, reside within a pagan home? I don’t know the related cultural practices during Elijah’s day, but by the time of Jesus, no respected Jew would enter a Gentile’s residence, nor would they eat their food or from their dishes for fear both had been connected to idol worship. Regardless, Elijah must’ve felt some level of discomfort. But he’d learned, and was learning, to trust and obey God, even when it didn’t seem to make sense or evoked some level of distress. Here's what I find beautiful. Because Elijah did as God asked, not only did he receive the nourishment he needed to survive the two-and-a-half-year drought—a deadly situation in that day. But consider as well, prior to encountering Elijah, this poor widow was out of hope. This is what Scripture records, directly following the prophet’s request for a piece of bread: “As surely as the Lord your God lives,” she replied, “I don’t have any bread—only a handful of flour in a jar and a little olive oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it—and die” (1 Kings 17:12, NIV). Pause to consider the weight of this moment and the grief that must’ve consumed her. Experiencing starvation and facing death herself would’ve been hard. But to believe your child would soon starve, knowing there was nothing you could do to save him? I can’t imagine that type of pain. This is what I find most beautiful in this story. The Lord met her in her pain, in her lack and used what felt like a hopeless situation to reveal Himself as Provider. He demonstrated to her, and anyone else aware of her circumstances, that He alone was the One true God who was, and is, able to provide all we need from next to nothing. Intersecting Life and Faith Our Lord doesn’t change. The same God who fed Elijah first from ravens then from the meager supplies of a lowly widow from Sidon promises to provide for all our needs as well. Sometimes, that provision comes during what feels like times of plenty, like when we’re employed by a well-paying company and earn enough to pay for our bills. Other times, He allows us to hit a season of need, not because He’s oblivious to or unaffected by our pain, but because He’s laying the ground work for a beautiful, soul-sustaining miracle that will ignite not just our faith but the faith of those around us as well. This account of His provision in the middle of an extreme and far-reaching drought assures us that no situation is so dire or hopeless that our Father’s mercy can’t break through. We belong to a God of abundance who can take our little and make it more than enough. And, as we trust Him to do so, we can experience the joy of watching our faith become contagious to others who find themselves in a seemingly hopeless situation. Further Reading Philippians 4:19 Psalm 23:1-6 Luke 12:24 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In today’s world of endless to-do lists, notifications, and responsibilities, it’s easy to miss the awe-inspiring work God is doing all around us. This devotional invites you to slow down, open your heart, and notice the countless ways God reveals His wonder in your everyday life. ✨ Key Takeaways 💡 Wonder isn’t lost — it’s often overlooked. Make room in your heart and schedule to notice God’s handiwork.💡 Luke 5:26 reminds us: God’s extraordinary power is active and present today, just as it was when Jesus healed the paralyzed man.💡 God’s awe-inspiring work can be seen in nature, relationships, answered prayers, and quiet moments.💡 Simple, intentional practices like “wonder walks,” mindful prayer, and rediscovering childlike joy can reawaken a sense of amazement.💡 Gratitude shifts your perspective from scarcity to abundance, helping you recognize God’s continuous blessings. 🌿 Intersecting Faith & Life When was the last time you truly felt awe in God’s presence? What sparked it? What would it look like to schedule time each day to slow down and seek out God’s wonder? How can you intentionally encourage those around you to pause and notice the incredible things God is doing? 📖 Further Reading Job 37:14 | Psalm 65:8 | Psalm 104:24 | Psalm 111:2 | Romans 1:20 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Let God Amaze You By: Whitney Hopler “And amazement seized them all, and they glorified God and were filled with awe, saying, ‘We have seen extraordinary things today.’” – Luke 5:26, ESV How often do you take breaks from your busy activities to think about how incredible God’s work is? It’s easy to shrink each day God gives you down to the level of your to-do list, allowing your time to be consumed by your responsibilities and causing you to miss out on experiencing wonder. In this fallen, stressful world, you can also become desensitized to wonder. The constant flow of messages competing for your attention can constantly distract you, dulling your awareness of what God is doing. In order to discover glimpses of God’s wonderful work around you, though, you need to intentionally make room in your life to look for it. The experience of noticing God at work is awe-inspiring! In Luke 5:26, the people who witnessed Jesus heal a paralyzed man responded with amazement and awe. They glorified God because they recognized his wonderful power on display before their eyes. That same power is still active today, working in your life and shaping the world around you. The question is: are you paying attention? Maybe you catch a glimpse of God’s work in the beauty of the sky, such as while you’re watching a colorful sunrise or sunset, or on a clear night when you can see the stars. You may see God at work through the love in your relationships with family and friends. Maybe you recognize God providing for you through an answered prayer. There are countless ways God works in your life – some of which you can see, and much more that God is doing behind the scenes. You can find wonderful evidence of God at work everywhere, but you must be willing to see it. When you intentionally open your heart to let God amaze you, you can experience awe anywhere and anytime, since God is constantly doing something wonderful! Here are some practices to help you experience God’s wonder around you every day: Enjoy “wonder walks” in nature: Taking regular walks outdoors in nature helps you discover God’s wonder because every part of God’s creation shows you something about the Creator. Wonder walks are walks you take to intentionally look for something inspiring on your way. As you walk, engage your senses fully. You can see the intricate patterns of leaves on the trees, listen to the music of birds singing, inhale the fresh scent of the grass, and feel the wind blowing. Pay attention to how what you’re experiencing inspires you, and what it can show you about God, who designed it all. Include prayerful mindfulness in your daily activities: Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment so you can appreciate the here and now. Since God is always present with you, you can become more aware of God by focusing your full attention on whatever you’re doing – even ordinary activities like eating, sipping tea, or doing chores at home – with a prayerful attitude, asking the Holy Spirit to help you uncover layers of meaning that you might otherwise overlook. Rediscover childlike wonder: Children view the world with pure wonder. That helps them find joy in the simplest discoveries. You can reignite this sense of awe in yourself as an adult by enjoying activities you loved as a child, such as playing with a pet, drawing, or exploring new places. Make time in your schedule regularly to have fun in some of the same ways you did during your childhood. Learn something new: God regularly brings new opportunities into your life to learn something new. Take advantage of those opportunities as often as you can. Take a class, visit museums, try cooking a new recipe or building something, or even start a new hobby. In the process, you can experience a lot of wonder as God guides you to new discoveries. Practice gratitude: Practicing gratitude changes your focus from what’s lacking in your life to the blessings God is pouring into your life. Develop a habit of thanking God for his blessings – both big and small blessings – and then you’ll become more aware of God’s continuous and amazing work in your life. Intersecting Faith and Life As you consider how God is always doing something amazing that you can discover, reflect on these questions: When was the last time you felt genuine awe, and what happened that inspired you to feel that way? How can you change your daily schedule to include more time to pursue God’s wonder? What steps can you take today to become more mindful of God’s wonderful work around you? How can you encourage other people in your life to pay more attention to God’s amazing work? Further Reading Job 37:14 Psalm 65:8 Psalm 104:24 Psalm 111:2 Romans 1:20 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When life hits hard — through mental health battles, illness, or deep loneliness — it’s easy to wonder if God’s against us. Today’s devotional is a powerful reminder that God is never our enemy. He is always for us, and His love is constant, even in our darkest moments. ✨ Key Takeaways 💡 Mental health struggles are not rooted in sin — they are real health issues that deserve compassion, care, and proper treatment💡 God’s Word promises: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)💡 Our emotions are valid, but God’s truth is steady — He has never and will never abandon us💡 God showed His immense love by giving up His Son for us; how could He not also graciously give us what we need for this life and eternity?💡 Problems arise because we live in a broken world, not because God is punishing us 🌿 Intersecting Faith & Life Have you ever struggled with the feeling that God was against you? What helped shift your perspective? Are you navigating a difficult season — mental health, illness, loss — and need a reminder that God is on your side? How might reflecting on Romans 8:31-32 reshape the way you face today’s challenges? 📖 Further Reading Romans 8:37-39 | Hebrews 13:5-6 | Psalm 46:1 | Isaiah 41:10 💬 Join the Conversation We’d love to hear how you’ve experienced God’s presence in difficult seasons. Share your story @LifeAudioNetwork or at Crosswalk.com — your journey could encourage someone else today. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: God Is for Us By Vivian Bricker “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:31-32). A few years ago, I hit rock bottom. I felt alone in life and I was struggling immensely with my mental health. I had just started recovery for my eating disorder and it was a difficult road ahead. What I didn’t know was that when you enter recovery, you have to cope with your feelings in different ways, rather than restricting your food intake, not eating, or excessively exercising. Due to the self-hate I had, it was hard for me to make this change at first. If you have also gone through recovery for an eating disorder, you know how difficult it can be. It can make you feel alone, isolated, and scared. Eating disorders are often based out of a source of control and once that control is gone, it can be very frightening. Through God’s help, I have been able to continue to do recovery and I don’t struggle as much as I used to. However, this trust didn’t happen overnight. At first, I was extremely mad at God. I came to the conclusion that He hated me and didn’t want what was best for me. I also thought that He might be turning a deaf ear to my prayers because I was a bad person for struggling with an eating disorder for so long. Due to unhelpful comments from other Christians, I was convinced that I was struggling with a sin problem rather than a real mental health disorder. Eating disorders, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and all other mental health disorders are not rooted in sin. They are all mental health disorders that deserve proper treatment and care. If everyone started seeing mental health disorders for what they are—mental health disorders—then we could start moving forward in helping others who are struggling. It only brings harm upon others when they are told their struggles are the result of sin in their life. If anyone has ever said that to you, know they are wrong. Statements such as these show their lack of biblical knowledge and their lack of relationship with the Lord. Don’t take these things to heart as these individuals are not knowledgeable about mental health disorders. Choose to reflect on the truth: yes, we can struggle with mental health disorders, but they are not because of sin. It wasn’t your fault for getting a mental health disorder. Similar to how it’s nobody’s fault that they develop heart disease, diabetes, or cancer, it is not your fault for developing a mental health disorder. We all have our own struggles and each of them are valid. During your struggles, you might have felt as though God is not with you or He is causing your suffering. I have been in the same place before. Your feelings are valid, but don’t believe for a second that God is not with you or He is the one causing your suffering. Intersecting Faith & Life: The Apostle Paul tells us, “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:31-32). As Paul says, God is for us. He is never against us. Just as He did not spare His own Son, but rather gave Him up for us, how will He not also give us all things? This is something to reflect upon as it will help us to know that God is forever on our side. Even though there are times when we feel as though God has abandoned us or is against us, it is not true. God loves us immeasurably (Romans 8:37-39). With His immeasurable love, He will graciously give us all things. Since God didn’t even spare His own Son, how can we question His love? The very fact that God gave up His Son in order to die for our sins shows the great love He has for us. As you walk through today, choose to reflect on what you know—God is for you. He is never against you and He will never bring problems into your life. Problems will arise, such as mental health disorders, but they are not curses brought upon us by God. Rather, they are part of living in the fallen world. God will help us as we face any diagnosis or any situation. He will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5-6). With this promise in our hearts, we can confidently walk into each day, knowing that He is with us and He is for us. Have you ever struggled with the thought that God is against you? What was this like? Are you currently struggling with a mental health disorder or a physical illness? If so, have you ever felt God caused your suffering? How can you embrace the truth that God is always for you? “Dear God, I have often struggled with the thought that You don’t want good things for my life. I know now that You are always for me and only want the best for me. Forgive me for thinking differently in the past. Please help me to walk confidently each day because I know You are with me and You are on my side. In Your Son’s Name, I pray, Amen.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Ever felt stuck waiting on God’s direction, wrestling with decisions, or worrying you might be missing His voice? You’re not alone. Today’s devotional reminds us that discovering God’s will isn’t about striving harder — it’s about surrendering deeper. Did you know that today's host, Jennifer Slattery, has a podcast of her own? Check out Faith Over Fear, where Jennifer helps us see different areas of life where fear has a foothold, and how our identity as children of God can help us move from fear to faithful, bold living. ✨ Key Takeaways 💡 A pure, surrendered heart hears God more clearly than one tangled in pride, fear, or self-reliance💡 Whole-self worship means offering our time, emotions, resources, and decisions to God in view of His mercy💡 Trust grows when we reflect on God’s radical love revealed through the cross — the more we remember, the more freely we surrender💡 There’s a cause-and-effect relationship: when we offer ourselves fully to God, we position ourselves to discern His good, pleasing, and perfect will💡 It’s not about perfect trust, but about moving closer to Jesus daily, letting His love quiet our fears and guide our hearts 🌿 Intersecting Faith & Life Is there an area of your life you’re holding back from God’s direction out of fear or uncertainty? How might remembering Christ’s sacrifice help you surrender that area with greater trust? What practices can help you keep your heart pure and receptive to God’s voice this week? 📖 Further Reading Matthew 5:6-8 | Psalm 51:10 | Psalm 19:12-14 | Psalm 29 💬 Join the Conversation How has God’s mercy transformed your ability to trust and surrender to His will? Share your story with us @LifeAudioNetwork or at Crosswalk.com — we’d love to hear how you’re walking this out. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will (Romans 12:1-2, NIV). We’ve probably all had times when we felt stuck in indecision, waiting for God’s leading. We’ve probably also felt the angst that comes from fretting that we’ve missed His guidance, that we’re maybe unable to hear His voice, or that we’ve heard Him incorrectly. I’m currently seeking His direction for a decision that could drastically affect my life for the foreseeable future. I know the stress, anxiety, and futility of living misaligned with Christ and the joy and fruitfulness that comes from anchoring ourselves in Him and yielding however He leads. Frankly, that is the only way to experience the thriving life He promised in John 10:10—a life characterized by love, joy, peace, kindness, and eternal impact. A life of ever-increasing intimacy with our Lord. Therefore, if we want to fully receive all the blessings He died to give us, it’s imperative we live the life He assigned. But what if we don’t what that is? What if we’re not certain whether He wants us to pursue additional training to prepare for a promotion that might allow more career autonomy, or to step away from a demanding position to free up more time to spend with teenaged children? Or maybe we’re working through a really difficult, painful and confusing relationship not knowing whether to speak hard truths or offer grace, to step back and initiate some firm boundaries, or to simply wait. When I find myself in those types of situations, I’m challenged and encouraged by today’s passage. First, it reminds me that a pure heart “hears” God more clearly than one consumed with pride, selfishness, and fear. Romans 12:1 invites me to offer my entire self—my time, resources, agenda, emotions—all that I am, to the Lord. That is perhaps the hardest act of obedience we will ever choose, especially if our trust feels a big wonky. Put simply, our ability to yield to Christ is directly tied to our trust in Him. I don’t say this from a place of condemnation. We can’t “will” ourselves to trust Him, nor is our wobbly trust an act of rebellion. Rather, it’s an indication that we need to get to know Christ, His ways and His heart, better. And we never see Him more clearly than when He hung upon the cross. This is why I find the first part of Romans 12:1 so helpful. “In view of God’s mercy …” In view of all He’s done for me and in me. In view of His radical sacrifice, offered in the most extreme display of love known to humanity and all that I have received through His death and resurrection, I offer myself back to Him. Earlier in Romans, prior to issuing this really challenging and freeing invitation, Paul, the first century church planter who wrote this letter, stated, “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32, NIV). That, and the verses that follow, recorded in one of the most beautiful and profound passages in Scripture, inform and ignite our ability to offer whole-self worship. Intersecting Life and Faith When we recognize how much Jesus loves us, the vivid and horrifically painful way He revealed this, and all we have in Him, our ability to rest in Him increases. The fear and anxiety that otherwise lead to self-reliance and survivalist behavior quiet in His loving embrace, allowing us to respond more freely to the gentle nudge of His Spirit within us. Reflecting upon the cross also helps us turn from the sin that otherwise clouds His voice and hardens our hearts against Him. According to Scripture, whenever we’re operating in pride, we are placing ourselves in direct opposition to God and His will (James 4:6). But like a said previously, a pure soul remains receptive to, and easily moved by, the Lord. This brings me to the most encouraging part of today’s passage. Notice the cause-and-effect relationship revealed. When we offer ourselves to Christ, approaching Him with open and pliable hearts, we will know God’s will, which is good, pleasing and perfect. Because again, will not the One who, in love, gave us His precious Son, give us everything we need to thrive? Further Reading: Matthew 5:6-8 Psalm 51:10 Psalm 19:12-14 Psalm 29 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.