The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

The pursuit of more can leave us exhausted, restless, and searching for fulfillment that only God can provide. Through John 3:30, Megan J. Conner explores what it means to surrender our desire for recognition, success, and achievement so that Jesus can become greater in our lives. Our culture often celebrates bigger, better, and more, but John the Baptist modeled a different path: humility, surrender, and a life centered completely on Christ. This devotional explores how true joy is not found in being noticed or praised by others, but in making room for Jesus to receive the glory. When we let go of the need to be seen, we discover the freedom and peace that come from knowing we are already fully known and loved by God. Highlights: Discover why the pursuit of “more” often leaves us feeling empty and exhausted. Learn from John the Baptist’s example of humility and surrender. Understand why true joy comes from making Christ greater, not ourselves. Explore how pride and the desire for recognition can distract us from reflecting Jesus. Find practical ways to surrender selfish desires through prayer and dependence on God. Be encouraged to seek God’s validation above the approval of others. Join the Conversation Where do you find yourself chasing “more” in your life? What would it look like for Jesus to become greater while you become less? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: The Beauty of LessBy Megan J. Conner Bible Reading:“He must become greater; I must become less.” - John 3:30 (NIV) How many of us have felt trapped by the demands of “more?” More accomplishments, more accolades, more money, more security, more doing, more going, more belonging, more pursuing, more achieving… More, more, more… with no end in sight. The mantra bigger is better reigns king in many of our lives and incessantly clamors for attention. So, we work our fingers to the bone while fraying our nerves and destroying our peace. More often than not, even if we are able to acquire the elusive pot of gold at the end of our desired rainbows, the emptiness we are attempting to fill remains void. Why is it that we are so drawn to the pursuit of more? Simply explained, it is part of our human nature. Without the Lord, we are naturally selfish and long for praise and exaltation. We want to be seen as important. We want to be “known.” But the truth is, we are known and deeply loved by our Heavenly Father, and His validation is the only one that will truly satisfy. John the Baptist understood this when he declared, “He (Jesus) must become greater, I must become less,” (John 3:30, NIV). John the Baptist was the beloved cousin of Christ and lived for the sole purpose of preparing the way for the Lord’s coming. John was the first messenger to proclaim that the kingdom of heaven was at hand. He called people to repentance and cleansing through baptism. He reminded listeners that all are in need of a savior; that all have fallen short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). He was bold in his preaching and refuted the religious who refused to acknowledge their own sin. Because of the impact John had on the region, his actions earned him notoriety, even fame. So much so that his followers were upset when they felt like John was being upstaged by Jesus and His disciples. “They came to John and said to him, ‘Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan—the one you testified about—look, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him.’ To this John replied, ‘A person can receive only what is given them from heaven. The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. He must become greater; I must become less.” - John 3:26-30 (NIV). John’s joy was not found in greatness; it was found in Jesus. His joy was complete in less. John understood that the more he diminished, the more others saw Christ. The same is true for us. When we pursue our own attention and accolades, we are beckoning to others - see me… recognize me, pay attention to me. For those of us who consider ourselves disciples and ambassadors for Christ, these efforts actually steal the spotlight from the true source of light and hope for a hurting world. It is through humility, not celebrity, that love shines the brightest. If decrease rather than increase is the goal, how then can we practically walk that out? First, we must lean into prayer. As shared earlier, we are naturally selfish. So, any attempt to force meekness upon ourselves to accomplish our gospel mission will likely result in false humility. This is why we must ask for God’s help through prayer and genuine surrender. Only then can we, like John the Baptist, truly declare, “He must become greater; I must become less.” John 3:30 (NIV). Intersecting Faith & Life: Are you someone who feels weighed down by the demands of more? Are you seeking the affirmation and acceptance of others to fill a void in your heart? Do you struggle to remain still when opportunities are present for you to gain recognition? If you answered yes to any of these, first, please know – you are not alone. We all wrestle with the allure of pride. After honestly confessing your inner battle, may I encourage you to take some time today to be still before the Lord? Ask Him to show you the motivation behind your desire for attention. Then, ask Him to help you surrender those desires as you look to become less so that He can become greater in your life. Further Reading:Matt. 20:1-19Rom. 3:21-26 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When anxiety, stress, and constant distractions leave your heart restless, Psalm 62:1-2 points us to the only source of lasting peace. Discover how trusting God, quieting your mind, and resting in His presence can help you find peace when the world feels loud. Life rarely slows down, and our minds often become just as noisy as the world around us. Sarah Frazer reflects on David's words in Psalm 62, showing that true rest isn't found by eliminating every distraction but by intentionally turning our hearts back to God. As we remember that He is our rock, refuge, and salvation, we can experience steady peace even when our circumstances remain uncertain. Highlights: Discover how Psalm 62 teaches us to find rest in God's presence. Learn why biblical peace requires intentional trust rather than perfect circumstances. See how David quieted his anxious heart by focusing on God's character. Be encouraged to replace worry with prayer and God's truth. Find practical encouragement for overcoming stress, anxiety, and mental noise. Remember that Jesus invites every weary heart to find lasting rest in Him. Join the Conversation What has helped you quiet your soul and refocus on God during stressful seasons? Which promise from Scripture brings you the greatest peace when life feels overwhelming? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Quieting Your Soul When the World Feels Loud By Sarah Frazer Bible Reading: For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken. - Psalm 62:1-2 (ESV) Have you ever wished to turn off the noise of life? I don’t mean physically, although sometimes we find ourselves in loud places. I have five children, and our house can get very loud, very quickly. But the noises that bother me, the ones that I wish I could get rid of, are the noises of this world. The news, the stress, and responsibilities all seem to keep my heart from experiencing peace. My inner thoughts will dominate my life so that it's not just external noise, but my mind that feels loud too. In Psalm 62, King David says that his soul waits for God in silence. I’ll admit that when my soul is restless, waiting for God to rescue me or to show up or give me answers, I don’t wait in silence. I’m usually spending my time worrying and trying to fix things myself. David reminds us that rest is not automatic, but intentional. David had to learn stillness; it doesn’t just happen. David does this because he has spent time thinking, mediating, and dwelling on the truth of who God is - a rock, fortress, and strength (Psalm 62:2). David reminds himself that he is not going to be “shaken.” This word means to “totter, get off course, or slip.” It reminds us that yes, we can feel disoriented for a moment, but God can get us back on track when we turn to Him. In the next few verses, David acknowledges the pressure he is under. He mentions being attacked and feeling shaken. The reality is we will face stress, noise from the world, and anxieties within our hearts. We do not ignore these things, but we take them to God. David, amidst his fears, reminds himself of where true rest comes from in Psalm 62:5-6. “Yes, my soul, find rest in God…” Notice that David speaks to himself. Taking the time to reflect on the truth about God is key to quieting the sounds of life around us. As we do this, we redirect our hearts back to God. In Psalm 62, David says the same thing in verses 1-2 and then again in 5-6. As David does this, he then turns his voice outward, telling us how we, too, can have a rest-filled soul. “Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. Selah.” - Psalm 62:8 (ESV) Stability comes from who God is, not what life feels like. In our lives, there are many things that can be loud, things that would distract us from God and His Word. David was intentional in Psalm 62, and we need to be as well. Returning our thoughts back to God is the way to quiet the noise. Peace is possible, and rest can be found. Jesus invites all who would come to Him to find rest (Matthew 11:28-30). We must come, though. God is the steady peace, the rock and fortress we need daily. Let us be like David and find our quiet in God. If your mind feels noisy tonight, I walk through Psalm 62 slowly on my podcast, Psalms to Help You Sleep, helping you rest in God’s presence. As David reminds himself of the truth about God, his soul slowly grows quieter. The noise around him does not immediately disappear, but his heart becomes anchored in something steadier than his circumstances. The same is true for us. We may still live in busy homes, face stressful situations, or carry anxious thoughts into the night, but we do not have to be ruled by them. Intersecting Faith & Life: God invites us to return to Him again and again, finding refuge in His presence and rest for our weary souls. Peace is not found in controlling every circumstance, but in trusting the One who holds us steady. So tonight, when the world feels loud, pause and remind your soul who God is. He is still your rock, your refuge, and your rest. How might you be intentional with God today? What distraction can you get rid of that will help quiet your soul? Further Reading: Psalm 46:10 Isaiah 26:3 Matthew 11:28-30 John 14:27 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

1 Corinthians 1:18 reminds us that the message of the cross is the power of God to those who believe. Discover how living out your faith with love, humility, and authenticity can point unbelievers to the hope found in Jesus Christ. Our culture often questions God's existence or dismisses Christianity altogether. Michelle Lazurek explores why believers shouldn't be surprised by skepticism and how our greatest witness isn't winning arguments—it's reflecting Christ through our words, actions, and unconditional love. As we faithfully share our testimony and live transformed lives, God can use our example to draw others to Himself. Highlights: Discover why the message of the cross seems foolish to unbelievers. Learn how a transformed life is one of the strongest testimonies of God's power. Be encouraged to respond to skepticism with grace, love, and humility. Understand the importance of sharing your personal testimony. Explore how authentic Christian living points others to Jesus. Find encouragement to faithfully represent Christ, even in a culture that rejects biblical truth. Join the Conversation How has your personal testimony helped someone better understand the hope found in Christ? What opportunities has God given you to reflect His love to those who don't yet believe? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Bitterness can quietly take root in our hearts, affecting our relationships, our spiritual lives, and even our well-being. Hebrews 12:15 warns believers not to let a "root of bitterness" grow and cause trouble. Discover how forgiveness, God's grace, and surrendering your burdens to Jesus can free you from resentment and restore lasting peace. Holding onto past hurts often feels justified, but it ultimately weighs us down more than the people who hurt us. Kelly Balarie explores the biblical call to release bitterness, embrace Christ's forgiveness, and trust God with the pain we were never meant to carry. When we remember how much Jesus has forgiven us, we find the strength to forgive others and experience true freedom. Highlights: Learn what the Bible says about the dangerous root of bitterness. Discover how unforgiveness can impact your spiritual, emotional, and relational health. Understand why God's grace is the antidote to resentment. Explore practical ways to release anger, offense, and hurt to Jesus. Be encouraged by Christ's example of forgiveness and sacrificial love. Find hope in casting your burdens on God instead of carrying them alone. Join the Conversation Have you experienced the freedom that comes from letting go of bitterness? What has helped you trust God with past hurts and choose forgiveness? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: How to Get the Root of Bitterness Gone By: Kelly Balarie Bible Reading:“See to it that no one falls short of God’s grace; that no root of resentment springs up and causes trouble, and by it many be defiled…” – Hebrews 12:15 AMP My husband and I have a friend. He’s one of the top national scholars for cancer medicine and research. Curious, we asked him, “Have you identified a link between unforgiveness and bitterness with a cancer diagnosis?” His answer? “Yes, in fact, my mom couldn’t forgive. She had cancer two times.” Interestingly enough, beyond his mom, he saw a correlation. So do various scientific studies. According to the website Doctors Beyond Medicine, studies show suppressed anger and emotions are linked to cancer. They note, “emotional toxicity is most likely the cause of their cancer, and that forgiveness, if used with appropriate treatments and lifestyle changes that address the physical, is a ‘first-line’ primary treatment.” Wow. I was astonished. But, I wondered, what does scripture have to say about this? “See to it that no one falls short of God’s grace; that no root of resentment springs up and causes trouble, and by it many be defiled…” (Heb. 12:15 AMP) Biblically speaking, defilement does not only happen in thought, but it can also happen in our body, soul, and mind. We are the temple of God and not to defile God’s temple, our body (1 Cor. 16:19-20).We are instructed to be cleansed of anything defiling in body or spirit (2 Cor. 7:1)We learn that what defiles us is what comes out of our hearts (Mark 7:20-23). Clearly, I don’t have all the answers on cancer, but what I do have a clear answer on is that we don’t want to be defiled in body, soul, or mind. This certainly made me sure that I don’t want to be “defiled.” What about us – are we defiled? Do we harbor bitterness? Do we keep resentments, nursing them like a baby? Do we hold records of wrongs against people, convicting them via our thoughts? Might we be angry? The irony? What we hold against others does not hurt them; it hurts us. What pain we keep inside of us – grows within us. We may think this doesn’t matter, that it doesn’t hurt anyone, that no one can see it, but it absolutely does hurt – us. Not only that, it oozes onto others. Can’t we all see that person we know with a face of anger? They think no one knows, but certainly, when you look at them, you can easily identify their eyebrows furrowing in. They believe they hide it well, but it takes a second to recognize their facial tension from all they are holding in. You can feel the edginess in their responses. Their pent-up stuff doesn’t just exist in their mind; they hold it in their body, and it speaks between the lines of their words. May this person never, ever, be us… If we have been defiled by a root of bitterness, what we think we are hiding is most likely residing on our face, living in our body, and oozing out from our responses. God, help. Of course, we know that life has a way of sucker punching us. People will be people. Circumstances hurt. Offense is rampant. How do we forbid defilement in our body, mind, and spirit? We remember The One who was reviled, so that we don’t have to live defiled. Jesus. Jesus carried the weight of our sin, so we don’t have to live under its weight. Even more, Jesus carried the weight of fellow believers’ sin, so we don’t have to live under its weight. If Jesus forgave us so much, how can we not forgive others the same way? We can forgive much, because He forgave much. We can love much, because He loved us so much. Intersecting Faith & Life: What does this look like practically? To release from the mind, the body, and the spirit looks like something. Scripture invites us to cast our cares on the Lord (1 Pet. 5:7). “To cast”, biblically, does not look like a light and airy casting; it looks like a complete throwing off, like someone might throw a saddle on a horse. It’s getting off of you and releasing onto Him what He already paid the price for. Why not cast your worries, cares, bitterness, anger, or resentments onto Jesus? Let Him take care of them. He will do a much better job than you will. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Being left out, overlooked, or rejected can leave lasting wounds, but those moments don't determine your identity. Ephesians 1:4-6 reveals a greater truth: through Jesus Christ, God has chosen, adopted, and accepted you into His family. Discover how your identity in Christ brings lasting security when the approval of others falls short. Rejection has a way of making us question our worth, but God's love tells a different story. Emily Rose Massey reminds us that while people may disappoint or exclude us, our Heavenly Father has already declared us His beloved children. When we anchor our identity in Christ instead of others' acceptance, we find the confidence, belonging, and peace that only He can provide. Highlights: Discover what it means to be accepted in the Beloved through Jesus Christ. Learn how Ephesians 1:4-6 speaks to feelings of rejection and loneliness. Find encouragement to root your identity in God's love rather than others' opinions. Understand how Jesus experienced rejection and empathizes with our pain. Be reminded that God's adoption into His family offers lasting security and hope. Learn how embracing your identity in Christ transforms the way you respond to rejection. Join the Conversation Have you ever struggled with feeling rejected or overlooked? How has remembering your identity as God's beloved child helped you find peace and confidence? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How do you recognize the lies that fuel fear, doubt, and insecurity? Based on 2 Timothy 1:7, this devotional explores how to reject thoughts that contradict God's truth and embrace the power, love, and sound mind He has given every believer. Discover how replacing fear with faith leads to lasting confidence in Christ. Negative thoughts can quietly shape how we see ourselves and even how we view God. Cindi McMenamin reminds us that discouragement, shame, and hopelessness are not the voice of our Savior. Through Scripture, God calls us to reject fear, trust His promises, and live with confidence in His power and faithfulness. As we replace lies with biblical truth, our faith grows stronger and our lives become a testimony to God's goodness. Highlights: Discover how to identify lies that create fear, doubt, and discouragement. Learn why 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds believers to live with power, love, and a sound mind. Understand the difference between the Holy Spirit's conviction and the enemy's condemnation. Find practical ways to replace negative thoughts with God's promises. Be encouraged to strengthen your faith by focusing on God's character instead of your fears. Learn how living by faith points others to God's goodness and faithfulness. Join the Conversation What lie have you found yourself believing lately? Which promise from God's Word helps you replace fear with faith and confidence in Christ? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What does it mean to be clothed in Christ? Rooted in Romans 13:14, we explore how seeking God's will instead of our own desires leads to lasting peace, wisdom, and spiritual growth. Learn how to resist the pull of self-focus and daily choose to follow Jesus. Every day presents opportunities to follow our own desires or surrender to God's leading. Megan J. Conner reminds us that while our hearts can be easily swayed by the world's distractions and instant gratification, God invites us to seek His face first. As we intentionally "clothe ourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ," He transforms our hearts, strengthens our discernment, and produces the fruit of the Spirit, enabling us to walk in obedience and experience His best for our lives. Highlights: Discover what it means to clothe yourself with Christ according to Romans 13:14. Learn why our hearts can be deceptive and why God's wisdom is essential. Find encouragement to seek God's direction before making important decisions. Understand how waiting on God develops spiritual maturity and discernment. Explore how walking with Christ produces the fruit of the Spirit. Be reminded that God's peace comes through surrender, not self-reliance. Join the Conversation When have you found yourself choosing between your own desires and God's direction? What practices help you seek Christ first before making important decisions? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Clothed in ChristBy Megan J. Conner Bible Reading:“… Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Romans 13:14, NIV)My heart says of you, “Seek his face!” Your face, LORD, I will seek.” (Psalm 27:8, NIV) Every day, all day long, we face one decision after another. Sometimes these choices are practical: What do I need from the grocery store? Or how much money should I pay off on the credit card? But other times, the dilemma is a matter of the heart – a tug-of-war between what I should do and what I want to do. Even more seriously, a decision between what we know to be right and what our conscience tells us is wrong. When choosing between what we think we want and what the Lord desires as his best for us, the struggle can be REAL. The allure of the world is powerful. Especially in this modern, technology-driven era, where even our devices are labeled with the pronoun “I,” the pull of selfishness and self-focus is strong, to say the least. The phones in our hands provide us with constant access to commercialism and propaganda that suggest it's all about me and that I should have or do anything I want simply because it is available or sounds appealing. And though we may logically identify the potential pitfalls in these scenarios, when our emotions or sinful desires kick in, the waters of clarity can be quickly muddied. The Bible says, “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? (Jer. 17:9, NIV). Do you agree? I certainly do. There have been many times in my life when I rationalized or justified decisions without even realizing what I was doing, only to come out on the other side, shocked that I had made such a choice. Why? Because my own heart deceived me. Paul, in his letter to the Romans, shares a similar sentiment when he states, “There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God (Rom. 3:10-12, NIV). Even when we are trying to walk with the Lord, it is so easy to choose what we want rather than to intentionally seek God’s will first and then wait upon him for direction. We are terrible at waiting, aren’t we? We want our entertainment instantaneously, our food fast, and our products delivered to our doorstep the same day we order them. Though the world around us can move at breakneck speeds, the Lord often calls us to be still and know that he is God (Ps. 46:10). To trust in him for direction and discernment. He calls us to look to him rather than our own flawed perceptions. If we are willing to run to him before grasping for self-satisfaction, we “clothe ourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ,” which will then produce his godly fruits such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-5:23). Left to our own devices and relying on our own strength can often lead us down paths we would ultimately prefer not to take. But if we choose to seek him before everything else, he promises that he will respond and provide us with all that we need. “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7-8, NIV) If you, like me, struggle to choose God’s best over your own selfish desires, I pray today is a new day for both of us. A day where we cry out as the psalmist of old did so many years ago and declare: My heart says of you, “Seek his face!” Your face, LORD, I will seek.” (Psalm 27:8, NIV) Let’s believe together that he is faithful to fulfill all of his promises, and when we call upon him, he will answer. And no matter how loudly the clamor of this world tries to overshadow our minds and hearts, may we surrender our wills to the only One who can offer us true peace and satisfaction. May we clothe ourselves in Christ. Intersecting Faith & Life: Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your own heart deceived you? If so, are you able to look back and identify where you struggled to let God influence your decision-making? How might you better approach these types of crossroads in the future? I encourage you to take some time today to write out the steps you will take the next time you face similar circumstances. Perhaps your action items might include reciting scripture, calling a friend for prayer, or simply waiting a day or two before making a final decision. Whatever that looks like for you individually, I pray you find peace and guidance as you seek God’s best for you. Further Reading:Psalm 27Galatians 5:13-26 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Trusting God when life doesn't make sense requires faith beyond our own understanding. Proverbs 3:5 reminds us to trust the Lord with all our hearts instead of relying on what we can see or explain. Discover how embracing life's unknowns can deepen your faith, replace worry with peace, and reveal God's greater purpose. Life is full of unanswered questions, unexpected detours, and closed doors that challenge our faith. Whitney Hopler shares how a frightening highway experience became a powerful reminder that God sees what we cannot. Even when His plans remain a mystery, His wisdom, protection, and love never fail. When we surrender our need to understand every circumstance, we discover that not knowing isn't a weakness—it can be one of God's greatest gifts, drawing us into deeper trust and lasting peace. Highlights: Discover why Proverbs 3:5 calls us to trust God over our own understanding. Learn how God often protects us in ways we cannot see. Find peace when life takes unexpected turns or your plans change. Be encouraged to release the need to control every outcome. Discover how uncertainty can strengthen your faith in God's wisdom. Remember that God's plans are always greater than our own understanding. Join the Conversation Has there been a time when you didn't understand what God was doing, only to later see His purpose? We'd love to hear how God has grown your faith through seasons of uncertainty. Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: The Gift of Not Knowing By: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5, NIV Before I began a road trip to Wilmington, North Carolina, I prayed for a safe trip. In my mind, I had a very simple understanding of how the trip would go. I would stay in the right lane, drive the speed limit, and stay completely safe because of my own careful driving. But things changed in a heartbeat on the highway. Without warning, a car merged into my lane, right in front of me. The driver wasn’t paying attention at all. Cars were speeding by in the next lane, so I couldn’t move over. I was trapped! I had to slam on my brakes to keep from hitting that car. Behind me, a massive tractor-trailer truck was coming fast. I remember feeling terrified when I looked in the rearview mirror and saw it speeding toward my car. The truck came within inches of my back bumper before it somehow slowed down enough to stop in just enough time before hitting me. In those few seconds, my previous understanding of the trip was gone. I was helpless. But God wasn’t. God knew that experience was coming long before I even started driving that day. He had already planned to answer my prayers for protection. Looking back, I realize something important: if God had shown me a video of that near-accident before I left my driveway, I would have been so scared that I may not have taken the trip at all. But God, in his kindness, kept that information from me. He gave me the gift of not knowing so that I could move forward in faith. I’m so glad I trusted God to handle the details I couldn’t see. Proverbs 3:5 encourages us to trust God completely rather than relying on our own understanding. As humans with limited perspectives, there’s a lot we don’t know. But God, who knows everything and can do anything, uses that unlimited knowledge and power for good. We can trust in God’s goodness to us, even when we don’t understand what’s happening. There’s wisdom in being willing to say that we don’t know, but God does. We all sometimes face closed doors. Maybe we applied for a job we thought we were perfect for, but didn’t get it. Maybe a relationship we valued suddenly fell apart. Or, maybe a plan we prayed over for months still didn’t work out. Often, we try to figure out why. We replay the situation in our minds, because we think that if we can understand it, we can control it. We believe understanding will bring us peace. But the truth is that we can’t force God’s big plans into our small human boxes. God works in ways that go far beyond our understanding. God’s possibilities for our lives are bigger than the ones we’ve imagined for ourselves. When we choose to trust God in situations that don’t make sense to us, we welcome God’s very best into our lives by making space for all of God’s possibilities to happen. We can still be at peace when we don’t understand what God is doing. Mysteries can challenge us to grow our faith in God by stepping out of our comfort zones and trusting him in new ways. When we don’t know something, we can be sure that God does. In the gap between what we know and what God knows, we can find grace. Not knowing something is sometimes a gift from God. Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider why it’s important to trust God when you don’t know something, reflect on these questions: What’s one situation happening in your life right now that doesn’t make sense to you? Even though you don’t understand it, how can you still trust God to do what’s best for you in that situation? When did you experience a past situation that didn’t make sense at the time, but God showed you later how he was protecting you through it? How can that memory help you trust God with your current unknowns? How can you strengthen your faith by embracing mysteries and letting them show you something new about how God works? How can believing that God’s plans for you are beyond what you can understand help you worry less about the future? Further Reading: Isaiah 55:8-9 1 Corinthians 13:12 Romans 11:33 Psalm 131:1 Ephesians 3:20 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Jesus Christ is our unbreakable lifeline, offering hope, strength, and security in every season of life. Hebrews 6:18-20 reminds us that through Christ we have a steadfast hope anchored in God's presence. Discover why prayer is more than a habit—it's our direct connection to the Savior who never leaves us or turns us away. Life often tempts us to look for comfort in people, achievements, or temporary things when we feel overwhelmed. In today's devotional, Alexis A. Goring reflects on how everyday experiences reveal a deeper truth: while people and circumstances may fail us, Jesus remains our constant source of hope and strength. Through prayer, we can bring every fear, burden, and unanswered question directly to Him. Highlights: Discover what Hebrews 6:18-20 teaches about the hope we have in Christ. Learn why prayer is our spiritual lifeline during difficult seasons. Be encouraged to depend on Jesus instead of people or temporary comforts. Find reassurance that Christ welcomes every fear, doubt, and burden we bring to Him. Understand how Jesus' constant presence gives lasting peace and security. Be reminded that our greatest hope is anchored in Christ alone. Resources Mentioned Song: Lifeline — Mandisa Song: That's Who You Are — Megan Tibbits Song: Don't Stop Praying — Matthew West Song: Jesus Walks with Me — Be Still Studios Join the Conversation What has helped you stay anchored to Christ during difficult seasons? We'd love to hear how prayer has strengthened your faith and reminded you that Jesus is your true lifeline. Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Our Lifeline By Alexis A. Goring Bible Reading: “We who have run for our very lives to God have every reason to grab the promised hope with both hands and never let go. It’s an unbreakable spiritual lifeline, reaching past all appearances right to the very presence of God where Jesus, running on ahead of us, has taken up his permanent post as high priest for us, in the order of Melchizedek.” - Hebrews 6:18-20 (MSG) A few years ago, while waiting to be seen in a hospital, I stepped into the women’s restroom and saw something that inspired this devotional: a lifeline. It was a red label with white-inked words instructing me to pull the attached red string if I needed help. The sight of this made me think about how Jesus Christ is our lifeline. Earlier this year, I saw a reel via Instagram of a young girl around age 11 or 12. She was captured on camera rushing onto the concert stage before security could catch her and embracing her favorite singer. Prior to this, I could see that the singer was performing at a calm, steady pace as she walked across the stage, holding the microphone near her face. When the young girl rushed onto the stage, the singer wasn’t fazed. She let the young girl wrap her arms around her waist and rest her head on her midsection as she leaned in for a tight hug that obviously meant the world to her. This girl received a 10-second embrace before security reached her and carried her away. When I saw this reel, it spoke volumes to me because it helped me realize several things. I realized that I have been there before because I have had favorite singers over the years—both secular and Christian—and I know what it’s like to cope with their music to the point where it feels like your favorite singer and their songs are your lifeline. When feeling sad or depressed, I would listen to a song that served as catharsis for my feelings, working it out of my system until I felt better. It was obvious to me that the singer in the Instagram reel was that young girl’s lifeline. Her music must have brought this girl through tough times and inspired her heart. Whether feeling happy or sad, this singer’s songs were obviously the soundtrack to her fans’ lives. It was obvious that she loved this musician with all her heart. It was also clear that this singer appreciated her fans because she let this girl hug her for more than a second without pushing her away. Jesus Christ also never pushes us away. And unlike any human—famous singer or not—He is our true lifeline. Only Jesus can save our souls. And He gave us a beautiful way to reach Him as our lifeline. That gift is prayer. I follow a page on Instagram that’s hosted by Ellie Mont. Last year, she said something very profound about prayer being our lifeline. These are a few quotes from her post on Instagram that support my devotional message today: First, she acknowledges that life can be hard for most people. Mont said, “Life often feels like a series of challenges and roadblocks that drain our strength. We try to be strong, to figure it all out on our own, but sometimes it just feels like too much. In those moments, we must remember we do not walk alone.” Second, she reminds us that Jesus walks with us. She also delivers a powerful line about the gift God gave us to reach Him and communicate with Him. Mont said, “Prayer is more than a religious habit or a last resort. It is a lifeline. It is a personal conversation with the God who created you, who sees everything you face, and who cares about every detail of your life. When you cannot handle the weight of your problems, you can bring them to the One who can. God does not ask you to be perfect. He asks you to come to Him just as you are.” Third, Mont reminds us that God wants to hear our hearts no matter how we feel or how messy it seems. She said, “You can be honest with Him. You can tell Him your fears, your doubts, your confusion, and your pain. There is nothing too small or too big for God to handle. He is not bothered by your questions or your tears. He welcomes them. He is a Father who wants to help you and walk with you through every season.” Finally, Mont gives us a word of encouragement for when we feel too discouraged to pray. She said, “Don’t let discouragement silence your voice. Do not let fear steal your hope. Keep praying. Keep trusting. God hears every word, even the ones you cannot say out loud. He sees your heart, and He is working even when you do not see it. You are not alone. You are not forgotten. You are not powerless. You are loved by a God who listens.” In closing, I’d like to say: Be careful not to make a human or anything that is not God your god or your lifeline, because there is only one true God and one way to heaven. The way is Jesus Christ (John 14:6). He is our lifeline. We need to cling to Christ more than we cling to anybody or anything else. Before you go, please listen to these four songs (below) and reflect on the lyrics. Song of Reflection #1: “Lifeline” by Mandisa. Listen to it HERE. Song of Reflection #2: “That’s Who You Are” (Original song by Megan Tibbits). Listen to it HERE. Song of Reflection #3: “Don’t Stop Praying” by Matthew West. Listen to it HERE. Song of Reflection #4: “Jesus Walks with Me” by Be Still Studios. Listen to it HERE. Intersecting Faith & Life: How does it feel to know that Jesus Christ is our Lifeline? What have you been clinging to more than Christ? Further Reading:Luke 18:1John 3:16-17John 11:25-26John 15:5Hebrews 4:16 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Holy Spirit gives believers hope, peace, and strength to endure life's storms. Romans 15:13 reminds us that God's power is always available, even when we feel weak, overwhelmed, or powerless. Discover how relying on the Holy Spirit helps us navigate hardship, grow in faith, and find lasting hope in every season. Life has a way of reminding us how little control we really have. In today's devotional, Melinda Eye Cooper shares how a devastating winter ice storm and days without electricity became a powerful illustration of our dependence on God. Just as our homes cannot function without power, our spiritual lives cannot thrive apart from the Holy Spirit. Highlights: Discover what Romans 15:13 teaches about the power of the Holy Spirit. Learn why life's storms reveal our need for God's strength and presence. Be encouraged by how the Holy Spirit provides hope, peace, guidance, and comfort. Understand how difficult seasons can deepen your faith and dependence on Christ. Find reassurance that God never leaves you to face hardship alone. Be reminded that true spiritual strength comes from the Holy Spirit, not ourselves. Join the Conversation How has God strengthened you through a difficult season? We'd love to hear how the Holy Spirit has encouraged, guided, or sustained your faith during life's storms. Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: No Power By Melinda Eye Cooper Bible Reading: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. - Romans 15:13 NIV Living in middle Tennessee for the past thirty-plus years, I can attest that we rarely see much snow. Schools often close if the forecast calls for anything frozen, including flurries. But we’ve had a few serious winter storms, and they almost always involve ice. In January of 2026, one of those storms came through our area. We did our best to prepare in case the power went out. We’d stocked up on bread, bottles of water, and snacks. My husband brought a generator home from work to help keep our refrigerator running and a small space heater. Thankfully, we had a wood-burning fireplace, so we figured at least we’d keep warm. Snow started turning into sleet on Saturday and eventually turned to freezing rain. Temperatures plummeted. Tree branches snapped under the weight of accumulating ice, falling on power lines. The sky flashed when a transformer blew with a loud pop. Sunday, early in the morning, we lost power, and so did our neighbors. We tried to stay warm using the space heater and fireplace, but our house grew frigid. It was uncomfortable, to say the least. We barely slept the first night, even though we were using nearly every blanket we could find. It didn’t take long for reality to sink in. The power could be out for days or a week. Our neighbors texted the next afternoon that they were heading to Kentucky to stay in a hotel. The storm wasn’t nearly as bad there. We did the same, taking our dog with us. Getting inside a warm hotel room with a nice soft bed was a sweet relief. The lights worked. The television worked. And a hot shower was minutes away. It didn’t take long to get nice and comfortable. When we received notice that power had been restored to our area a couple of days later, we made our way back home. The drive revealed a lot of damage. Even though the thick ice covering trees and grass glistened in the sunlight and was beautiful in a terrible way, the storm mostly left a trail of destruction with downed trees, telephone poles, and broken tree branches in its wake. The storm and loss of power over the next several days (and a couple of weeks for some) caused a lot of problems, and sadly, some folks didn’t survive. We came home to a mess. Electric cords were draped everywhere, from hooking things up to the generator, and blankets were piled up. It was freezing inside the house. The heat was on, but it took a long time for the house to warm back up. Honestly, seeing the mess reminded me just how much we really need power in our homes. We rely on it heavily for day-to-day life. It runs the stove, HVAC unit, refrigerator, freezer, water heater, washer and dryer, lighting, appliances, and television. Almost everything. Even with our great efforts to prepare for a lack of power during the storm, it was still terrible. Our home quickly became uncomfortable without electricity. It seemed we could do nothing. We need power. Standing amidst the mess, it hit me spiritually. We need the Holy Spirit at every moment of our lives. We can’t do anything good without Him; we’d be uncomfortable, cold, and powerless. Intersecting Faith & Life: As a saved person, I’m deeply thankful for what Jesus did for me. I’m still in love with Him after many years as a Christian. But to be honest, I’m just beside myself that God also gave us the indwelling, powerful Holy Spirit to help us in life. He does so many things for us, including: Reveals Jesus Convicts us of sin Teaches us Reminds us Encourages us Protects us Guides us Warns us Gives us hope and spiritual gifts Tells us the truth Helps us pray Never leaves or forsakes us When a storm of life comes, whether it is a financial struggle, divorce, or the death of a loved one, we may be brought to our knees. The powerful Holy Spirit is with us in these hardships. He is our shelter when these storms blow through. Those difficult times show us just how much we need Him and rely on His power. They draw us into a deeper, more trusting relationship with our beloved Father. Father, thank You for giving us the powerful Holy Spirit to lead us through our lives. Helping us to grow closer to You and more like Jesus. In His name, Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.