The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

Scripture calls us to fix our eyes on Jesus—not people—because He alone is perfect and unchanging. This devotional reminds us that when our faith is rooted in Christ, it remains steady even when others fall short. Highlights Focus Matters: Faith falters when placed in people instead of Jesus (Hebrews 12:2). Human Leaders Fall: Even trusted spiritual leaders are imperfect and can fail. Follow Christ Alone: We are called to follow Jesus, not build our faith around individuals (Matthew 4:19). Guard Your Heart: Hiding God’s Word in our hearts protects us from stumbling (Psalm 119:11). Discernment is Key: Jesus calls us to recognize truth by the fruit people produce (Matthew 7:16-20). Unshakable Foundation: A faith rooted in God remains steady despite circumstances (Hebrews 12:28). Intersecting Faith & Life When leaders fall, it can feel disorienting and discouraging. But these moments are an opportunity to realign our focus. Jesus is the only perfect example, the only Savior who endured the cross, and the only one worthy of our complete trust. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: Keep Keeping Your Eyes on Jesus By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” - Hebrews 12:2 Recent and ongoing scandals involving pastors, churches, and ministries—leaders who fail and fall short in their service and devotion to God—have been devastating for many believers in Jesus Christ. This is especially true for those who closely followed these leaders, hanging on their every word, listening, trusting, and at times valuing what they said as more important than the Word of God itself. The exposure of immorality, misconduct, dishonesty, and deception takes a terrible toll on those who once placed unwavering faith in these men and women who positioned themselves as spokespersons for God. When these leaders’ sinful activities are uncovered, it rattles some followers to their spiritual cores. Faith begins to stumble when it has been placed more in people than in God. In many cases, it reveals that instead of focusing on the Lord, their eyes, ears, and attention were centered on the leaders they admired. Yet none of those leaders suffered and endured the cross or experienced separation from God on our behalf. When tempted, they were not willing to lay down their human desires and sinful impulses, much less their lives, for us. Called to Be Fishermen, Not Establish Our Own Kingdoms God never intended for us to be followers of men. We are called to be fishers of people, but followers of Christ alone. As Matthew 4:19 records: “‘Come, follow Me,’ Jesus said, ‘and I will send you out to fish for people.’” He calls us to follow Him and to hide His Word in our hearts. When we do, it protects our hearts and minds from stumbling. It guards us against falling into unbelief because of another person’s sin. Psalm 119:11 reminds us of this safeguard: “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” The Apostle Paul further explains in 2 Corinthians 3:3 how God writes His Word on our hearts when we yield to Him: “You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.” When we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, we do not collapse like a line of dominoes when trusted spiritual leaders fail. Our hearts may grieve over their sin, but our faith remains steady. Hebrews 12:28 reminds us that when our focus is on God, we stand on an unshakable foundation: “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” Jesus warned us to remain watchful. In Matthew 7:15, He cautions: “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” He also assures us that we can discern the difference between genuine followers and deceivers. As He explains in Matthew 7:16-20: “By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.” Intersecting Faith & Life: Have you been devastated by a spiritual leader’s sin? Has your faith been shaken by their failings? If so, ask God to help redirect your focus on Him and fix your eyes on Jesus. Further Reading: Fix Your Eyes on Jesus Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A powerful reminder of renewal, hope, and God’s faithfulness. After seasons of darkness—whether physical like winter or emotional like discouragement—spring arrives with warmth, beauty, and new life. In the same way, God brings renewal to our hearts, reminding us that difficult seasons are not permanent. This devotional encourages us to look for signs of hope, trust in God’s timing, and embrace the fresh start He offers. Highlights Season of Renewal: Spring symbolizes new beginnings, hope, and emotional restoration. Hope in Darkness: Even in difficult seasons, small signs of change remind us that better days are coming. God’s Faithfulness: Just as seasons change, God faithfully brings renewal in His perfect timing. Spiritual Awakening: Like nature coming back to life, our hearts can be refreshed and restored in Christ. Perspective Shift: Recognizing beauty in small details helps cultivate gratitude and joy. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: The Beauty of SpringBy Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“When a king’s face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring” (Proverbs 16:15). Spring is a time of new beginnings. When I was younger, it reminded me that the endless days of darkness were behind me. As someone who struggles with depression, spring brings a renewed sense of hope. It helps me feel more positive about life and breaks the cycle of staying inside, hiding from the world, and feeling empty. When spring arrives, we are greeted by blooming flowers and the warm sun on our faces. Many springs have filled my heart with joy and given me a fresh start emotionally. There is something about winter’s darkness that brings dread, yet spring ushers in hope and joy. You may have experienced this too; spring has a way of leading our hearts toward warmth, tranquility, and happiness. A few years ago, I began searching for subtle signs of spring even during the winter months. On walks, I would look for the tiniest flower bud or a green vine stretching quietly in the shadows. Without fail, God would reveal a small sign of what was coming. Even the smallest glimpse gave me hope for happier, warmer, longer days ahead. The frigid season was passing, and spring was on its way. Spring feels especially beautiful after winter because it restores our view of the world’s beauty. During winter, nature lies dormant; in spring, it awakens and flourishes once again. Spring is not a season to overlook, even if it stirs up our allergies. Instead, we can rejoice in it and give God glory for the fresh start we have in Him. Just as the earth returns to life, we can experience renewal too, especially if winter has been a difficult season for us. If winter was hard, we need to be honest with ourselves without condemning our struggles. Some seasons are heavier than others. Yet we can hold onto the promise that spring will come. Some years it may feel delayed, but it will arrive. And when it does, we can rejoice and praise the Lord with hopeful hearts. Intersecting Faith & Life: The Bible tells us, “When a king’s face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring” (Proverbs 16:15). In biblical times, retaining a king’s favor was vital. His disfavor could result in death, but his approval meant protection and preservation. Likewise, a rain cloud in spring is a blessing. It nourishes the plants and flowers, sustaining their growth. In the same way, a king’s joy brought life to his people. The proverb reminds us that favor and blessing produce renewal, just as spring rain revives the earth. Take special notice of spring this year and allow it to warm your soul. Winter has passed, along with its bitter cold and long, dark days. The sorrow and mental heaviness that sometimes accompany those months can begin to lift as well. Spring carries the promise of new life, renewed joy, and restored hope. Praise the Lord for the beauty and life He brings through this season. What is your favorite thing about the season of spring? What are a few ways you can give God praise for the beauty of spring? Further Reading: Hosea 6:3 Isaiah 61:11 2 Corinthians 5:17 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

No matter how messy or complicated our story may feel, God is the one who begins, sustains, and completes the work within us. Even in seasons of wandering, failure, or doubt, His grace remains active—reshaping our hearts and drawing us closer to Him. This devotional highlights the powerful truth that we are continually being transformed, and God is faithful to finish what He started. Highlights God Initiates Growth: Our transformation begins with God, not our own efforts (Philippians 1:6). Jesus Rescues: We cannot save ourselves—Christ is the one who pulls us out of sin and restores us. Messy Testimonies Matter: Faith journeys aren’t always clean or simple, but God is still writing the story (Hebrews 12:2). God’s Faithfulness: Even when we fall short, He remains constant and committed (2 Timothy 2:13). Sanctification is Ongoing: Spiritual growth happens over time through Scripture, prayer, and obedience. Renewed Mindset: The Holy Spirit transforms our thinking, helping us focus on eternal priorities. Progress Over Perfection: God is continually shaping us into Christ’s image, step by step. Intersecting Faith & Life It’s easy to become discouraged when your spiritual growth doesn’t look the way you expected. But God never asked for instant perfection—He invites you into a process. Every step of obedience, every moment in Scripture, and every prayer contributes to the work He is doing in your life. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: You Are God’s Work in Progress By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading: “…being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6, NIV). A new friend recently asked me, “Emily… how long have you known the Lord?”I wanted to be as concise as possible but also transparent. I explained that I have been coming to grips recently that I was most likely a false convert when I was a teen into my early 20s and didn’t truly start following Christ until the summer after I graduated college. It’s the only way I can seem to make sense of the mess I lived in for six years after my profession of faith, after responding to an altar call at a youth conference.As I walked the aisle at that church, I responded to the news that Jesus died for my sins to be forgiven then eventually ran right back into the same ditch like a dumb sheep thinking I could rely on my own works and not Christ’s finished work of the cross, and God allowed me to fail, fall, and create a home in my pit of self-righteousness and sin for six years. But thanks be to God, that wasn’t the end of my story- the Lord didn’t leave me in that pit because one day, I was rescued. We must first remember that we cannot rescue ourselves out of a pit of sin- Jesus is the Great Shepherd who rescues His sheep. It is God who begins the work in our hearts, turning them from a heart of stone to a heart of flesh, and the longer we walk with Him, the more He will continue to mold our hearts. I don’t believe all our testimonies of coming to faith in Christ can be packaged up into a nice little box with a bow. It’s because we aren’t the author of the story- our Sovereign Lord is the author and finisher, or perfecter, of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Scripture tells us that He is faithful to complete that work that He began in us: “…being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6, NIV). Intersecting Faith & Life:You may also have a messy and complicated testimony and cannot fully explain all of what you think the Lord was doing in your heart and when, but I can tell you that even when you have been faithless, God has been incredibly faithful (2 Timothy 2:13). Even when I’m extremely dumb, hard-headed, and rebellious, He is wise, patient, and perfect on my behalf. He doesn’t give up on His children! And just as God is sovereign in salvation, He is also sovereign in our sanctification as we learn to partner with Him in our growth in Christ. He is the one who is in charge of seeing us mature on our walk with Him. The same grace that saved us is the very same grace that keeps us and molds us into the image of Christ, each new day. We will never be perfect this side of heaven, which is why we rest in the finished work of the cross of Christ, but we should be walking in holiness little by little each passing day. One way this occurs in our lives is through studying the scriptures and other spiritual disciplines such as prayer, serving others, and consistent discipleship and evangelism. The Spirit of God guides us into all truth and convicts our hearts of sin. The more we study the Bible and exercise spiritual discipline, the more the Holy Spirit renews our minds. This renewal of the mind helps us to think on eternal matters, and soon, worldly thinking and fleshly desires become less of a temptation for us the longer we walk with the Lord. Our behavior and attitude begin to change, and God gives us a desire to love, obey, and serve Him with fervor! From the moment of your conversion, you became God’s work-in-progress, and the greatest news of all is that He doesn’t grow weary, stressed, or exhausted with you. He will complete the work He began in you! Further Reading: Galatians 2:20 1 Thessalonians 5:23 2 Peter 1:2- Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When you get in the habit of asking God how he sees the situation, rather than how you perceive it, it will lead you to reflect on how your perspective changes and on the love and compassion you have for others. Reflect on Ephesians 6:12-13 today and put on the Armor of God "so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Highlights: Our real battle is spiritual, not against people, and the enemy seeks to divide, deceive, and distract us. Christians are called to put on the full armor of God daily: belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shoes of peace, shield of faith, and helmet of salvation. Daily Scripture reading, prayer, and reflection equip us to resist the devil’s schemes and strengthen our walk with God. Seeking God’s perspective over our own helps us grow in compassion, grace, and Christlikeness. Equipping ourselves with God’s armor allows us to stand firm, resist temptation, and remain close to Him in every situation. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: Put on the Armor of GodBy: Michelle Lazurek Bible Reading:“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” - Ephesians 6:12-13 Churches can have their share of problems. In twenty-five years of ministry, we've seen many churches that constantly have conflict. The weekly drama can become too much for leadership to bear. The spiritual battle that Christians face can become the strongest in church settings. People who think they know better about how to run a church can drive leadership to the point of breakdown, leaving them feeling isolated and alone. In these situations, it can be easy for a leader to see that the problem lies with the people. However, the people are not the problem. The problem is with the enemy. The enemy divides, deceives, and is against any vision for possible success or movement toward the Holy Spirit. The above verse reminds us that this is to be expected. Christians, no matter how healthy their church is, have a battle they must fight—their battle is against the enemy. Daily, we are instructed to put on the full armor of God, which consists of the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of peace, the shield of faith, and the helmet of salvation. When we choose to arm ourselves with these elements, we are better prepared to thwart the enemy than when our minds are cluttered with thoughts that do not align with Scripture. Take a moment to analyze your life. Do you equip yourself with the full armor of God every day? Do you start your day by reading the Word, praying, and asking God to help you in every situation throughout the day? Do you shorten your devotional time so you can get done what's on your to-do list, forsaking the very person who can help you get through that list in the first place? If you find you are not fully equipping yourself with God, there's hope. Start your day with half an hour in the Word of God. Read a couple of chapters each day. Journal about your thoughts on the matter. Take notes on what you read and use commentaries to study what you read. Don't just read it to check it off your to-do list. Rather, apply it to your lives, and then no area of your life will become vulnerable to Satan’s schemes. Pray without ceasing. Every time you come into a situation you don't know how to handle, pray to God. Ask him when he would have you do that in that situation. Help him illuminate the situation with his eyes, rather than yours. When you get in the habit of asking God how he sees the situation, rather than how you perceive it, it will lead you to reflect on how your perspective changes and on the love and compassion you have for others. When you shift your perspective from one of selfishness to treating others as if they bear the image of God, you'll become more like Christ. It will also help you grow in grace and mercy with everyone in your life. Not only is it important to equip yourself with the armor of God every day to fight the devil’s schemes, but it is also so you can withstand the devil's plan to get you to move away from God. Satan is relentless and wants you to worship him and not God. He'll do anything to get your attention and approval. Be someone who can see right through the devil and call him to flee. When you can do this, you can not only withstand Satan's schemes, but also stand on your own two feet, planted firmly on the word of God. Father, let us be people who equip ourselves with the armor of God so that we can be protected from the devil. Let us enter this spiritual battle with ease. Let us be equipped with the helmet of salvation and the word of God. Let us fight the greatest battles on our knees so that we can be closer to you and further away from the enemy. Amen. Intersecting Faith & Life: What is one step you can take to equip yourself with the armor of God today? How can you make this a daily habit? Further Reading:James 4:7 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

While our souls naturally thirst and hunger for fulfillment, only God provides true and lasting satisfaction. By beginning each prayer and request with thanksgiving, we open ourselves to receive God’s good gifts and experience the fullness He offers. This devotional emphasizes that recognizing God’s provision transforms how we perceive and receive His blessings, turning gratitude into soul-deep contentment. Highlights Human Need is Normal: Every person experiences longing, desire, and hunger for fulfillment. God Fills Us: Psalm 107:9 reminds us that God satisfies our deepest needs with good things. Power of Thanksgiving: Philippians 4:6 shows that gratitude before requests enhances God’s provision. Mindful Acknowledgment: Giving thanks first helps us notice and accept the blessings God already provides. Spiritual Satisfaction: Gratitude transforms our hearts, producing joy and lasting contentment. Intersecting Faith & Life We are designed for dependence on God, not on circumstances, people, or worldly comforts. By beginning each day in gratitude and offering thanks before presenting needs, we position ourselves to experience God’s deep satisfaction. Our hearts align with His generosity, and our souls find the fullness they crave. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: Gratitude to God Gratifies and Satisfies the Soul By: Keri Eichberger Bible Reading: Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things. - Psalm 107:8-9 Sometimes I become so aware of how needy I am that I feel a sense of shame and embarrassment. But I really shouldn’t. Because the truth is, every single soul is thirsty for something. Hungry for happiness. Starving for satisfaction and gratification. We have needs, longings, and deep desires. We seek and search for fulfillment. And I don’t know about you, but too often I look to the world for fill. I lean on and depend on my circumstances and the people around me. I look to comforts, pleasures, and indulgences to provide relief from the hard and the hurt. Freedom from the challenges, the struggles, the obstacles, the busyness, all the expectations. On and on. Do you feel a deep need? Or lots of them? Maybe you desire relief from fear. Or have a longing for peace that’s swelling in your soul. Maybe you are looking for answers or guidance. You’re lonely and praying for encouragement, connection, and community. The truth is, we all have so much need. Nonstop. Even those who don’t always notice or who aren’t aware. And need isn’t necessarily bad. God made us for dependence. But not for dependence on anything or anyone else other than him. Psalm 107:9 says, he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things. That “he” is God. It is the Lord who satisfies and fills us. And it says, with good things. Not just any random or empty thing, but good things. The question is, will we let him? The preceding verse proclaims. Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind. And I wonder if this upfront proclamation is on purpose. Reminding us to give thanks to the Lord first for the blessings he provides—his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds. I believe it’s intentional. I also believe that if we focused more on giving thanks to God before presenting our needs and seeming lack to him, we would see more of his provision and blessings. This same reminder is referenced in a verse you likely know. In Philippians 4:6, it states, in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. It’s the thanksgiving we need to remember. To give thanks to God every time we bring a need before him, any moment we lift up a concern, whenever we present any request to the Lord. It is our thanksgiving that can have an immense impact on how we perceive and receive the gifts of God. Do we notice and accept the satisfaction and fullness he offers? The problem is, I know I forget to do this all too often. Do you? Intersecting Faith & Life: Let us acknowledge our need right now. But let us begin by giving thanks to God, the giver of all good things, before we approach him with all that we are hungry and thirsty for. Let us acknowledge that he is already fulfilling our deepest desires; that he is supplying everything we really need. And let us remember to begin each day in this way. Giving thanks to him and praising him. Because he indeed does fill our lives with good things. He indeed does give gratification and swelling satisfaction for our longing souls when we offer, over and over, our gratitude and thanks to him. If you liked what you read, I think you will love my latest book, Win Over Worry: Conquer What Shakes You and Soar With the One Who Overcomes. You can find it on Amazon or your favorite online retail site. I hope it blesses you! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Reflect on the enduring truth of God’s goodness, even amid life’s hardships. Using Psalm 27 as an anchor, this devotional reminds us that our outward circumstances do not determine the inward state of our hearts. By recalling God’s faithfulness, seeking intimacy with Him, and remembering His past provision, we can remain confident in His goodness today, shifting perspective from what seems lacking to what God has already provided. Highlights Anchor Scripture: Psalm 27 provides comfort and reassurance amid trials. Confidence in God: Trusting God’s goodness despite external challenges renews hope. God’s Presence: He never leaves or forsakes His children (Deut. 31:6, Isa. 41:10). Active Remembrance: Reflecting on personal experiences of God’s care strengthens faith. Encouragement through Music: Songs like The Goodness of God by Bethel Music can reinforce God’s faithfulness. Intersecting Faith & Life Life inevitably brings struggle and hardship, but God’s presence never wavers. We can cultivate hope and courage by returning to anchor scriptures, recalling God’s past faithfulness, and focusing on His goodness rather than current difficulties. Intentionally meditating on His promises and using tools like Scripture or worship music can encourage a steadfast heart even during storms. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: The Goodness of GodBy: Megan J. Conner Bible Reading:“I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” - Psalm 27:13 (NIV) Do you have an anchor scripture or favorite passage of the Bible that you regularly return to for comfort or encouragement? I have a few, but one of my favorites is Psalm 27. I have read and reread this psalm more times than I can count. I even handwrote the full psalm in my journal because I am a writer and writers best retain information through the physical act of writing (or typing) and reading. Regardless of how I have interacted with the text, I just can’t seem to get away from this particular passage. It’s like I somehow knew these words would need to be forever etched into my heart. Psalm 27 was written by David during one of his many flights from those who sought to take his life. Though it looked as if the deck was completely stacked against him, David determined to put his faith in the Lord for refuge and rescue. Many of the declarations he makes in this narrative are bold refutes against the temptation to despair. In verse three, he states, “though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.” He continues on in verse eight to say, “My heart says of you, ‘Seek his face!’ Your face, LORD, I will seek.” Ultimately, what David desired most was intimacy and companionship with the Lord, for that really is the only place where we can obtain true and lasting comfort. David understood that his outward circumstances did not have to dictate the inward position of his heart. The goodness of God remained even if it looked like everything around him was falling apart. No matter your age, occupation, or geographic location, like David, life has likely thrown you some hard knocks. Unfortunately, disappointments and hardships are guaranteed in this fallen world. No one is immune. In fact, the Bible actually promises that we will encounter struggle. Jesus said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV). The good news is that we are not alone in our trials. The Bible affirms that God is present and helping us through our circumstances. Our Heavenly Father promises He will never leave or forsake us (Deut. 31:6), He is close to those who call upon Him (Psalm 145:18), He will draw near to us when we draw near to Him (James 4:8), and He will help us and uphold us with his righteous right hand (Isa. 41:10). You can be confident that God has not left you alone in the difficulties or challenges you are facing. Sometimes, our souls just need to be reminded of God's unmovable, unfailing love. In Psalm 27, David refuted the lie of defeat by declaring who God is, all He had already done, and the Biblical promises He has made to those who love Him. Reciting these truths and recalling times when you have personally witnessed God’s care and provision in your life helps shift your perspective from what seems to be lacking to what has been provided. In light of this fresh perspective, hope can be renewed. And it is here, in this place of confident assurance in Him, that you can look out beyond the momentary affliction you are facing and say: No matter what is going on… “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” - Psalm 27:13 (NIV) Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you have an anchor scripture you turn to again and again in times of trouble? If so, when was the last time you recited it? One of the best ways to stir up our souls is through song. Ultimately, the psalms penned by David were meant to be sung. Music has such an incredible ability to soothe and encourage our blistered or discouraged hearts. One song that ministers to me when I need to be reminded of the abundance in my life rather than the lack is The Goodness of God by Bethel Music and Jenn Johnson. Take some time to look up the lyrics or listen to this song today. May it remind you of God’s love, faithfulness, and goodness present in your life. Further Reading:Isaiah 41:1-20Psalm 27 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Like the rising sun and seasonal rains, God always shows up when the moment is right. Waiting on Him is an active process—pressing on in prayer, trusting His character, and expecting renewal. When God appears, He brings deep healing, restores hope, and nourishes growth, turning barren seasons into fertile ones for spiritual flourishing. Highlights God’s Faithfulness: He appears as surely as the sun rises, showing reliability in every season. Winter Rains: Symbolize deep healing, addressing spiritual dryness and preparing us for what’s next. Spring Rains: Represent gentle renewal, refreshing our hearts and fostering growth. Persistent Prayer: Pressing on in prayer strengthens trust and acknowledgment of God’s work. Hope in Waiting: Seasons of waiting are not empty; they are opportunities to reflect on God’s past faithfulness. Intersecting Faith & Life Waiting can feel dry and discouraging, but remembering God’s consistent presence brings perspective. Just as the sun rises daily and rain nourishes the earth, God’s timing is perfect. Trusting Him in the waiting season allows for spiritual growth, renewed hope, and readiness for His arrival. Actively acknowledging God during this time strengthens faith and deepens reliance on His promises. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: God Will Show Up for YouBy: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading:“Let us acknowledge the Lord; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.” – Hosea 6:3, NIV After it rains, I try to go outside to take a quick walk whenever possible. I love smelling the fresh air that’s just been washed clean by the rain, and seeing how the ground around me comes to life as the rain soaks into it. Since I also love the peaceful sound of rain and how it feels when raindrops fall, I sometimes try to walk outside while it's still raining. While I’m walking, I often pray because the rain that refreshes everything around me physically inspires me to seek a fresh perspective spiritually by talking with God. I always feel renewed after walking. The answers to my prayers usually have to wait for God’s timing – and sometimes that takes much longer than I expected. But God is faithful! God always shows up with the answers when the timing is right. In the meantime, I keep seeking him. If you’re waiting for God to answer your prayers for something you need, but it’s taken much longer than you expected to see God’s answers arrive, you may feel like God has forgotten you. You might start to wonder if prayer works and if God will actually show up for you. This verse from the prophet Hosea encourages you that God will show up for you as reliably as the sun rises and the rain waters the earth. You can count on God appearing whenever the time is right to meet your needs. Just like the sun always rises in the morning, and the rain always falls to water the earth, God will always show up for you. Hosea 6:3 urges you to “press on to acknowledge” God. You can do so by continuing to seek God, to trust God’s character, and to move forward in faith, expecting God to show up when the right time comes. Praying persistently and waiting with hope will both help you press on to acknowledge God. When God does appear, this verse says: “He will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.” Winter rains wash away debris and soak into the ground, creating a deep reserve of water. When God shows up, he addresses the deep issues in your life, healing you from anything that’s making you spiritually dry and giving you the strength you need for what’s next. Spring rains are gentle rains that often occur during that season to nourish plants and help them grow well. When God appears, he brings you renewal and revival. Areas in your life that had been barren before will bloom because of the new life God gives you. God shows up to renew your strength and restore your hope. So, if you’re currently in a season of waiting for God to answer your prayers about something, remember God’s past faithfulness. God has shown up for you before, and he will show up again – just like the sun will rise tomorrow morning, and rain will fall from the sky again soon. You aren’t waiting for a God who might be too busy or too far away to help you. You’re waiting for a God who promises to appear at the right time. So, press on to pray for what you need, and to believe that God will answer your prayers. You can always trust that God will show up for you! Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider how you can trust that God will show up for you, reflect on these questions: What is the current dry season you’re experiencing that’s making you doubt God’s faithfulness? Hosea 6:3 says God will appear “as surely as the sun rises.” How can you plan to get up early enough to watch a sunset this week and meditate on this verse while you watch it? In what ways do you need God to come to you like the winter rains, with deep healing that helps you prepare for what’s next? In what ways do you need God to come to you like the spring rains, with renewal that helps you grow? What’s one step you can take today to “press on to acknowledge him” while you wait for God’s timing? Further Reading:Lamentations 3:22-23Psalm 30:5Isaiah 40:31Philippians 1:6Malachi 4:2 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Friendship is not optional in the Christian life—it’s essential. Lauren Fletcher highlights how God designs relationships to encourage, support, and help us grow in Christ. By sharing our struggles, confessing sin, and offering genuine care, we reflect God’s love to one another. True friendships sharpen us, lift us up in times of need, and create a community where His love is experienced and expressed. Highlights Encouragement: Friends help us persevere and remind us of God’s truth (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Spiritual Growth: “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend” (Proverbs 27:17). Support in Hardship: Care packages, prayer, and practical help show Christ’s love in action. Confession & Healing: Sharing struggles removes shame and brings healing (James 5:16; Galatians 6:1-2). Together We Thrive: Ecclesiastes reminds us that life is better lived with others; multiple relationships strengthen resilience (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). Love in Action: By loving friends authentically, God’s love is manifested in us. Intersecting Faith & Life God did not intend for us to walk through life alone. Whether it’s encouragement in a hard season, spiritual accountability, or practical support, friends reflect His heart and make the Christian journey sustainable and joyful. Cultivating and investing in these relationships honors God and enriches our daily walk. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: We Need Each Other By Lauren Fletcher Bible Reading: “Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.” - 1 John 4:11-12 I have been blessed with many close friends. It wasn’t always that way, though. There was a time when I didn’t share much about myself with others. I hid the “not pretty” part of my life in a figurative coat closet, with the bad memories boxed up on the top shelf. There were things I had learned that you do not talk about. All of this changed when I started a new season of small groups at church. Within safe spaces, I learned I could share my life with others and be fully accepted. This surprised me. I realized the closet had to be opened, and the memories, one by one, taken off the shelf, boxes opened, and shared with others. What I learned was that friendship is a blessing and absolutely essential to the Christian life. In friendship, we encourage each other and help each other grow. I have a friend with a gift for encouragement. I call her sometimes for a “pep talk.” She has a great way of encouraging me in the Lord and reminding me of the truth. I can come with my difficult circumstances and prayer requests and leave with a sense of hope. I am so grateful to her. In 1 Thessalonians, it says, “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). It is so important to encourage each other because life can get difficult. We need each other’s help to keep going. As friends, we also help each other grow. In Proverbs, it says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend” (Proverbs 27:17). We make each other better in Christ. We help each other in times of need. As I joined a women’s group at my church, I saw this firsthand. Meeting around the fire, I’d hear women share their stories and what they were going through. Each person was met with support and love. Sometimes, we’d support each other through care packages, times of prayer, or even meal trains. This showed me how to love others in their hard seasons, how to be there for them. 1 John 4:11-12 says, “Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.” As we put our love into action, we show each other the love of Christ. We confess our sins to each other. I remember in college, I was struggling with sin. At some point, I confessed this sin to a friend of mine, who listened, supported me, and compassionately shared helpful scripture with me. What happened was I no longer felt alone in things or hidden in shame. In Galatians 6, Paul says, “Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:1-2). What I found in sharing these hard things with friends is that we begin to fight this battle together—I am no longer by myself in it. It also removes the shame that I feel, which causes me to hide sin. Coming into the light, my friends have been waiting and ready to help. In James, it says, “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results” (James 5:16). When we stop hiding our sin from each other and from God, He can heal us. Intersecting Faith & Life: As I’ve continued to learn about friendship, I've found that friends help pick each other up. In Ecclesiastes, it says, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). The writer continues, “A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12). I pray that you find these things to be true in your friendships as well. God did not create us to be alone or to walk out this life by ourselves. I pray that God will bring you the right people at the right time and strengthen the relationships you already have. Lord, thank You for friendship. Thank You that you intended for us to walk through life with others. Thank You for the good plans You have for our lives (Jeremiah 29:11). I pray that You would bless my life with abundant relationships that reflect Your heart. Show me how to be a good friend. In Jesus’s name, Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Too often, we settle for “at least” in our lives—accepting less than what God intends because we feel guilty, undeserving, or afraid to hope for more. Cindi McMenamin reminds us that God’s love is not minimal; He desires to do “immeasurably more” than we can imagine. Gratitude and contentment should not become resignation. Instead, we are called to ask boldly, trust His goodness, and anticipate His blessings in every area of life, knowing that His power works within us to exceed our expectations. Highlights Settling for “at least” limits the abundant life God wants for us. Gratitude should anticipate God’s blessings, not resign us to less. God gives good gifts not because we deserve them, but because He is compassionate. Faith unlocks God’s provision; He wants to exceed what we imagine. Avoid limiting God with disbelief or self-doubt—ask boldly in prayer. God can transform situations that seem hopeless into testimonies of His glory. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: Are You Settling for Less? By: Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading: Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.” - Ephesians 3:20 (NIV) Do you long for something more in your life and yet constantly feel that you shouldn’t? Whether you're longing for marriage, or for more intimacy in your marriage, or for a child, or for a more fulfilling career, I'm sure you've experienced your share of these well-intentioned remarks: "At least you have a family that loves you.” "At least you have a husband." "At least you already have a child." "You may not enjoy it, but at least you have a job.” "Well, at least you're healthy." "At least you still have…” "At least you don't suffer with…” Oh, the sting of well-intentioned remarks. And, oh, the sting of those two guilt-ridden words: "At least..." So many of us settle for “at least” in our lives. And yet, since God went to such great extremes to show His love for you and me by having His only Son die on the cross for our sins, then certainly He did not intend for us to be content with the bare minimum. Yes, God's Word says we are to be thankful "in all circumstances" (1 Thessalonians 5:18). We are also told from Scripture that "godliness with contentment is great gain" (1 Timothy 6:6). But God doesn't want our gratitude and contentment to be a form of resignation (like when we say, "I guess I should be happy with this, since it's all I will ever get anyway"). Rather, God wants His children to be full of anticipation for the "more" that He is so capable of giving—to the point that we thank Him ahead of time for all that He is about to do. This God who tells us to be thankful in all things actually raises the bar when we decide to settle for less, or at least what life brings us. In the New King James Version, Ephesians 3:20 says God is able to do “exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.” You and I often hear, think, or say the word "at least" in our lives. And yet God's Word says: "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer" (Matthew 21:22). "Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full" (John 16:24). "Without faith it is impossible to please Him" (Hebrews 11:6). Those words, my friend, come from a God who is not stingy, and who doesn't bow out after He's done the bare minimum in your life. He is, instead, the God who says, "If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" (Matthew 7:11). Intersecting Faith & Life: You and I have our reasons for not coming to God and pouring out our hearts. Sometimes it's because we feel guilty about asking God for something. Other times it's because we don't really believe that He would want to bless us, or we feel we don't deserve anything more from Him. When you and I say, "I don't really deserve any more than I have right now," we are actually correct in our assumption, because God doesn't give us good gifts because we deserve them. He gives us good gifts because He is good and compassionate, wanting to bless His children. Especially when we seek to be obedient and please His heart. So, what are you settling for? A dating relationship with someone you know is not right for you? A job you tolerate because you don't believe God has something better for you? A diagnosis that appears untreatable? A marriage that is just okay, but not truly glorifying God? Don't fall into the mindset of saying, "I don't believe God can or will give me anything better," or "I don't deserve more than what I already have." Instead, remember that God can do anything, and He loves to bless His children. He excels in situations that you and I think are hopeless. Don't be reluctant to pour out your heart to Him. Rather than settle for the least in your life, surrender to His best and allow for the possibility that God may want to do "immeasurably more” than all you can ask or imagine—many times with what you already have. Further Reading: Psalm 37:4-6 For daily reminders of all God can do in your life and the lives of others, see Cindi’s 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.

The Bible reminds us that tomorrow is never guaranteed. Reflecting on the importance of trusting God with the future and living each day in His guidance. Planning is wise, but it must always be done in alignment with God’s will. When it comes to salvation, the urgency is clear: follow Christ today, because the opportunity may not be there tomorrow. Highlights Life is unpredictable; no day is guaranteed. Planning is important, but always with God’s guidance (“God-willing”). Secular optimism can lull us into delay, while biblical hope emphasizes eternal perspective. Salvation is urgent—accept Jesus today, because tomorrow is not promised. Living with awareness of Christ’s return encourages holiness and readiness. Scripture calls believers to live faithfully in the present, trusting God’s provision. Intersecting Faith & Life Ask yourself: How often do you say “tomorrow” without including God in your plans? Are there spiritual steps you’ve been postponing? Today is the day to surrender your life to Christ and live in the light of His promises, trusting that He equips you for each moment. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: Tomorrow Is Not Promised By: Alexis A. Goring Bible Reading: “Never boast about tomorrow. You don't know what will happen between now and then.” - Proverbs 27:1 (GNT) There was a time in my life when I used to make plans for tomorrow and talk about them as if they were sure to come true. Until one day, a friend carefully told me that she’s learned to say “God-willing” when she makes plans because the Bible says tomorrow is not promised. Her words resonated with me and still ring true today. Nowadays, when I speak of my plans for the future—even if it’s only 24 hours away—I say “God-willing” at the end of my sentence. As I reflected on this recently, two songs came to my mind. They share the same title but preach a different message—one secular, with worldly wisdom and a temporary promise, and one Biblical, with words of caution, graced with eternity in mind. The secular song “Tomorrow” from the original movie Annie (1982) and the Gospel song “Tomorrow” performed by The Winans both convey a message of hope, but only one speaks of everlasting hope. Let’s look at the core message of these songs and think about it. The lyrics of the song “Tomorrow” from the 1982 movie “Annie”, performed by Aileen Quinn, say (in paraphrase): The singer banks on the sun rising tomorrow. She believes you can bet your last dollar that tomorrow will arrive. As she thinks about the beauty and promises of tomorrow, she feels her sorrows lift. When days are dark, and she feels depressed and lonely, she rises and declares with a wide grin that tomorrow is on the horizon, so she will be okay no matter what happens because tomorrow will be a better day, and it’s only 24 hours away. The lyrics for the song “Tomorrow,” performed by The Winans, say (in paraphrase): Jesus Christ is knocking on the door of your heart, saying He is here, asking you to let Him in. He reminds you that He supplies everything you need. Then the person responds that they know this to be true. They tell Jesus that they will let Him in, not today, but tomorrow. They say tomorrow is a better time for them to give their life to Christ. They don’t feel an urgency in choosing to serve the Lord today. The singers of this song caution the listener that the Bible says tomorrow is not promised, so it might be too late because they may not live to see the next day. This is the main point: We cannot bet our bottom dollar on life getting better tomorrow because the Bible says tomorrow is not promised. Does this mean that we should not look forward to tomorrow and make plans for our future? Of course not. We are to stay fully focused on the present and look forward to the next day. But we are not supposed to plan without including God. And when it comes to our salvation in Jesus Christ, we should accept Him into our lives today because we don’t know if we will live another 24 hours. According to The Bible, when God tells Jesus Christ it’s time for Him to return to Earth to take His faithful followers to Heaven, it will be too late for us to give our hearts to Jesus and follow Him. The Angel of the Lord says in Revelation 22:10-11 (MSG), “Time is just about up. Let evildoers do their worst, and the dirty-minded go all out in pollution, but let the righteous maintain a straight course, and the holy continue on in holiness.” When we see Jesus Christ return in the clouds of glory, we who lived for Him will rejoice because we know we’re going to Heaven, but those who kept delaying their decision to follow Jesus will be terrified because they see it’s too late and they won’t be able to go to Heaven. Let us take this seriously because our salvation is at stake. I encourage you, if you have not already, to let Jesus into your heart now—especially if you feel an urgency to do so. But if you don’t feel an urgency or hear Christ knocking at the door of your heart, or you’re entrenched in sin, it’s not too late for you because you’re still alive. Please seek God while you’re living. It will be too late when you’re dead. If you’re alive and breathing today, reach out to Him. God loves you, and He wants to welcome you into His Kingdom with open arms. Finally, we must always be ready for Christ’s return because the Bible says He will come when we least expect Him (Matthew 24:44). In closing, I’d like for you to listen to this song, “Tomorrow” by The Winans. Listen to it HERE. Intersecting Faith and Life: Will you let Jesus Christ into your heart today and follow Him all the way to Heaven? Further Reading: Hebrews 9:28Matthew 24:30 1 Thessalonians 4:16 Revelation 1:7 Revelation 19:11 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.