The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

When tomorrow feels heavy before it even arrives, worry can steal the peace God has given you today. The endless what-ifs—What if something goes wrong? What if I can't handle it? What if things don't work out?—can leave you exhausted from carrying problems that haven't happened yet. Jesus offers a different way in Matthew 6:34: “Do not worry about tomorrow.” He isn't telling us to ignore life's difficulties or pretend everything will be easy. He's reminding us that tomorrow belongs to Him. Letting go of tomorrow requires releasing our need for control and learning to trust God's care one day at a time. Jesus points to the birds and flowers as reminders that our heavenly Father knows what we need and faithfully provides. We don't have to figure everything out today. Through prayer, thanksgiving, and trust, we can bring our fears to God and find the strength and peace we need for the day in front of us. Highlights Why Jesus tells us not to carry tomorrow's worries today How worry and the desire for control can steal our peace What the birds and flowers teach us about trusting God's provision Why prayer and praise offer a better path than anxiety and overthinking How God meets us personally in the middle of our burdens Learning to trust God with the future, even when tomorrow may bring hardship A reminder that God's grace is sufficient for each day Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: When You’re Tired of Carrying Tomorrow By Sarah Frazer Bible Reading: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” - Matthew 6:34 Walking down a crowded street, gazing across a stadium filled with cheering fans, or even standing among a group of believers raising their hands in praise we often don’t think of the burdens everyone carries. Jesus, in his ministry here on earth didn’t see the masses, He saw the person. When the crowds would gather at the feet of Jesus, begging for help, Jesus looked and touched each one. The healing didn’t happen in masses, but individually. He did not stand on a stage and declare the Words of God. He reached out and looked deep inside our souls to show us the truth of God’s love for each us. He helps carry our burdens personally. In Matthew chapter 6 Jesus talks about blessedness, prayer, and money. As he spoke to the crowds, did he see the worry, the stress, and the fatigue of each person? In the middle of His sermon He says to them: “don’t worry.” This phrase means to not be anxious or take on the cares of something. Although the idea carries with it a command, Jesus is not saying “try harder.” Instead, He invited them (and us) to let go. The birds and the flowers, which Jesus gives as examples here are not trying harder not to worry - they just don’t. They don’t work harder at gathering food. They work less. The flowers and birds were created by a loving God who meets all of their needs. Worry is about letting go. Because of God’s loving care for us, we have the peace we need to let go of tomorrow's cares. We do not have to carry it any longer. Jesus will later say in Matthew 11:28-30 to lay down our burdens and find rest, true rest, in Him. Anxiety comes from a heart that spends its time overthinking. In a world and age that is consumed with knowledge, we have bought into the lie that more knowledge means more control. And more control means safety. The birds and the flowers don’t control nature and you and I know we sometimes cannot control the circumstances of our lives. In Matthew 6 Jesus is specifically talking about possessions, money, and treasure. Our treasure is what our heart holds dear. Control can sometimes become our treasure. If we try to control our life, keep it in check, we will only be anxious about tomorrow. We are heavy and weary from carrying tomorrow’s questions. In the end, it is fear and not trust that keeps us from finding peace today. Paul uses the same word for anxious in Philippians 4:6. He says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Paul offers us a different path. Instead of worry or control, he invites us to prayer and praise. Carrying tomorrow’s worry not only clouds our view but keeps us from connecting with God. Jesus never promised that tomorrow would be trouble-free. In fact, He acknowledged that each day carries enough burdens of its own. But He also reminds us that we were never meant to carry tomorrow before it arrives. Worry pulls us out of the present moment and places us into an imaginary future where fear often goes unchecked. Prayer, however, brings us back to the presence of God. Look at the birds today. Remember that they depend on the care of their Creator without worry. The flowers bloom without a thought of concern. We, too, can trust our Creator, who loves us deeply. In fact, Jesus says in Luke that we are worth more than any other created being. God invites us to trust Him, and in our prayers, asking God to work, we find peace. God already knows what tomorrow holds, and He holds tomorrow. It isn’t ours to carry anymore. Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you live in fear of the future? All of the what-ifs are out of our control, but they are safe in the loving, sovereign hands of our Savior. Jesus died on the cross, securing our eternal home. We can trust Him with our tomorrows. Our tomorrows might be filled with sorrow, and today you might be facing a daily trial that you wish you could wake up tomorrow and it would be over. Tomorrow might come with hardship and pain. Take Paul’s advice and go to God in prayer. Trust that God’s grace will be sufficient for each day. More than that, we know our God says we do not carry our sorrows alone. What burden are you carrying today that God never asked you to hold alone? Take that worry to Him in prayer. Further Reading: Psalm 55:22 Lamentations 3:22-23 Philippians 4:6-7 1 Peter 5:7 Exodus 16:18-21 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When a dream falls apart or a door you prayed would open suddenly closes, it can leave you wondering what God is doing. Maybe you've worked toward a particular career, relationship, opportunity, or ministry, only to hear “no,” “wait,” or nothing at all. Closed doors can feel like rejection, but what if God is using them as redirection? Proverbs 16:9 reminds us that while we make plans, the Lord ultimately establishes our steps. Surrendering our plans to God isn't always easy, especially when we genuinely believe we've found the path we were meant to take. But God's “no” doesn't mean He has abandoned us. Sometimes He is protecting us, sometimes He is preparing us for something different, and sometimes we may never know why a particular door closed. The invitation is to trust the Author of our story, release our grip on the outcome, and pray, “Your will be done.” Highlights Why God's closed doors don't necessarily mean rejection Learning to trust God when your plans don't unfold as expected How a “no” from God can become a redirection or protection The challenge of wanting God's will more than our own plans Finding peace when you're facing a “not yet” or a season of waiting How to surrender specific outcomes and remain open to God's leading Three questions to help you discern where God may be leading next Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: When God, the Author, Rewrites Your Plans By Hannah Benson Bible Reading:“The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps” (Proverbs 16:9 ESV). I just returned from living in the beautiful state of Tennessee for over 4 weeks, working on a feature film project. As I’ve been processing all the Lord has done, I’ve reflected on this verse in Proverbs in particular. When I was a little girl, it was my dream to serve the Lord through media missions. As a young woman, how is that dream now a reality? Only God. The truth is, we all have dreams, hopes, and plans. There is nothing wrong with making plans and hoping for something. In fact, God often places these desires in our hearts. What about when our plans fall through? When we feel like we’re praying, begging for a breakthrough, but heaven seems silent, or worse yet, God says no? There have been times in my life when I found myself on my knees praying for something, only for the door to slam shut. When we have our plans, sometimes we can question why. Why would God withhold something good from us? I can’t claim to know God’s reasons. After all, His thoughts are higher than our thoughts, and His ways higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-11). Sometimes, rejection is our protection. I have often found in my life that God will open doors that will draw me closer to Him and will bring Him the most glory. When He withholds something, it could simply be that I long for that thing more than I long for the will of the Lord to be done. That’s convicting. I want to desire God’s will far more than I desire anything else. That’s hard. When Jesus teaches His disciples how to pray in Matthew 6, He tells them to start by praying “Our father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (v. 9, 10 ESV). Notice the part about “your will be done.” God’s will is perfect. We should have a heart that desires to see God’s perfect will unfold here on earth as it does in heaven. We know God has good plans for us that are far better than anything we could dream or even begin to hope for. It’s one thing to agree with our lips, but quite another to truly desire in our hearts when God’s will isn’t always ours. What about when God says no? When God allows a door to quietly close? I wish I could say it’s easy to accept those no’s, but I don’t know that it ever gets easier. When we receive a no from God, sometimes, we may never understand why. Other times, we’ll look back and realize it was His protection or He had different plans that may’ve never unfolded otherwise. Intersecting Faith & Life: It can be incredibly difficult when our plans fall apart, when a dream begins to fade, or when a door we’ve knocked on stays firmly locked. It’s okay to grieve and to take our pain to Jesus. In fact, He wants us to share everything on our hearts with Him. But a closed door, a changed plan, or a dream that feels dead isn’t a sign of God’s abandonment. Instead, it’s proof of God, the Author’s hand over each of our lives, writing in each moment, caring for us so deeply as He sketches out all the details. Think about that. He cares about us so deeply that He’ll tell us no, shut a door, or change our plans. As I reflect on my own life, I can see the doors God has closed and others He has flung wide open. If it weren’t for the “no’s” of the past, I don’t think I would’ve received or appreciated all the “yeses” of today. That doesn’t mean there aren’t “nos,” “not yets,” or “waits” in this current season. But when there are, I want to remember that every closed door isn’t a rejection but a redirection, a beautiful gift from God. His plans aren’t always ours. His thoughts are often far beyond what we could imagine. And honestly? Thank God. If you are facing a closed door today, take some time to consider the following questions: Are you gripping a specific outcome so tightly that you’re missing where the Lord may be leading you next? Can you find peace in the truth that God’s "no" is an act of sovereign protection? How can you shift your prayers today from "Lord, do things my way" to "Your will be done"? Pray with me: Dear Father, thank You that Your plans aren’t always mine. Thank You for every "no," for every time You tell me to wait, or when You whisper, “not yet.” Thank You for the times You shut doors just as much as when You open them. Please help me surrender to Your leading and release my plans to You. Lord, please don’t let me miss where You are calling me next. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When your adult child is going through heartbreak, it can be difficult to know what to do. You want to protect them, take away their pain, and somehow make everything better—but you can't walk through the heartbreak for them. Whether they are grieving a breakup, betrayal, disappointment, or another painful relationship experience, Christian parents can learn to support their adult children while trusting God to carry them through the storm. Isaiah 43:2 reminds us that God doesn't promise a life without painful seasons, but He does promise His presence in the middle of them: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.” As a parent, that means you don't have to fix your adult child's heartbreak. You can listen, offer a steady and loving presence, pray for them, and give their pain and future to God, trusting Him to bring healing, wisdom, and hope in His timing. Highlights How to support an adult child through heartbreak without trying to fix everything Why parents must learn to trust God with their grown children's pain How Isaiah 43:2 offers hope in seasons of grief and emotional pain Practical ways to be present for an adult child who is hurting Why listening can be more helpful than offering advice or pity How to cast your own anxiety about your child's pain on God Finding faith, hope, and love while waiting for healing and redemption Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword 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: Giving Your Adult Child’s Heartbreak to God By: Lia Girard Bible Reading: When you pass through the waters,I will be with you;and when you pass through the rivers,they will not sweep over you.When you walk through the fire,you will not be burned;the flames will not set you ablaze. – Isaiah 43:2, NIV As Christians, we know that Jesus doesn’t promise a trouble-free life here on earth. Which naturally means we can expect that there will be days or seasons of pain, heartache, confusion, or grief. However, just knowing that we’re human (and that hurt will find us eventually) doesn’t prevent the sadness and anger heartbreak causes—whenever and however it shows up. We can try to gird ourselves with gratitude, faith, and hope. Relying on this inclination can help us weather storms. But we can’t make the storms simply not come. Being a parent of two adult children, I deeply understand the desire to wish every hard thing away from your children’s lives. It starts early, before their very first injury, and continues through your entire parenting journey. And although you know that surviving struggles will help your children build compassion, wisdom, and strength, this can get dicey when it comes to someone mistreating them or breaking their heart. Because you’ve raised your child to be an adult, you know they’re “out there” in this world, taking chances, loving deeply, and making their own choices. Yet you still want to be there for them, whenever they may need you. But the role has shifted fully now, from daily provider to encourager as they chart their own path. You know it’s right to raise adults, and not “baby” your grown children, but it’s also a strange and somewhat tender passage. It means letting go of having a say-so and just being available for them as they seek direction from the ultimate parent, God. In Isaiah 43:2, God is reassuring the Israelites that he is carrying them through their exile, no matter how hard it seems. And he is assuring all of us today that no matter what your adult child is walking through, God promises to step right into the murky water with them. Later in Isaiah 43:18-19, God says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Some biblical scholars say that God is clearly stating here that when a situation is dire and feels unbearable, he will never abandon you and is working on something new for you. This is good news when your own heart is aching because someone has broken your adult child’s heart. It means you can be sure that God is in control of your child’s recovery. Remember, it’s a promise. And for your own heart, while you’re believing in God to carry your child through grief, you can lean into 1 Peter 5:7, and “cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” When someone hurts your grown child’s heart, leaving them holding a heavy load of bewilderment or loneliness, let them know you love them and are right here for anything they want or need. Keep checking in and listening. It’s likely they’ve been through enough maturing to not want or need you to preach to them, offer them pity, or even cry with them—though I know you want to. Because God is with them, you can be the same present, interested, loving parent you’ve always been, and have faith in better days ahead. You may have been through to the other side of heartbreak yourself and seen the kind of redemption your child hasn’t. Yet. It’s certain they will encounter their own unique ups, downs, and renewals. So be patient. Be kind. And remember that the final verse of the famous 1 Corinthians 13 “love chapter” that tells us true love is patient and kind, also encourages us: “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” Remind your child that God loves them, and so do you. And that you believe God’s promise: that He will carry them through. Intersecting Faith & Life: When you want to “fix” your adult child’s relationship heartbreak, consider instead offering your loving presence in ways like these: Invite them to lunch, dinner, or dessert somewhere they’ve been wanting to try Find and suggest a nature hike to enjoy together Have them over to watch a show or sports game you both enjoy If they’re far away, send them something soothing, like socks, slippers, or a delivery dinner Interact with them the same way you always have—with love, joy, and interest in them Ask: Do you want to talk? And respect their wishes. Further Reading:Psalm 147:3 Psalm 55:22 Psalm 23 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Sharing your faith doesn’t have to mean having the perfect answer to every question about Christianity or knowing exactly what to say. Christian witness is about showing and sharing the love of Jesus with the people around you. But how can you talk about your faith without coming across as judgmental, pushy, or disconnected from where someone is? The Bible calls us to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), and that starts with the way we live, listen, and treat others. When we approach evangelism with kindness, humility, and genuine love, we create opportunities for meaningful conversations about God and the gospel. We may not see an immediate response, and we may not have every answer, but we can faithfully plant seeds of faith and trust God with the results. A Christ-centered witness isn't about winning an argument—it's about pointing people toward Jesus in a way that reflects His love. Highlights How to share your faith without being judgmental or pushy Why our actions and character can be a powerful Christian witness The importance of speaking biblical truth with love How to share your personal testimony with others Why listening and meeting people where they are matters when witnessing How even a simple conversation can plant a seed of faith Why we can trust God with the results of our witness Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: A Kinder Way to Witness By Alexis A. Goring Bible Reading:“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” - John 13:34-35 (NIV) One evening, as I was leaving the building where I worked in Washington, D.C., I saw a man standing in the middle of walking traffic, holding a megaphone and shouting at everyone as they passed by. He was telling them to stop sinning and was using a lot of words that only Christians who know the Bible understand. I also noticed that he had an angry demeanor. I walked away thinking, “That’s not how you get people to want to know Jesus Christ.” I’m not an expert nor an evangelist, but I believe there is a kinder way to witness. The Bible says we are to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). God doesn’t tell us to hit people over the head with The Holy Bible, shout angry words of condemnation through a megaphone or microphone, nor tell people bluntly that they are going to hell or make them feel lesser than for not yet knowing Jesus. I would like to suggest a kinder way to witness. Here’s what I believe: First, we preach with our lives. John MacArthur, an American pastor, stated, “You are the only Bible some unbelievers will ever read.” According to Google, “This quote highlights the concept that for non-Christians, a believer’s daily actions, character, and life testimony serve as their very first (and sometimes only) exposure to the teachings of Jesus. The quote challenges believers to live a consistent, transparent life that accurately reflects God's Word. It emphasizes that a Christian's behavior should draw others toward Christ rather than drive them away.” Second, Christians should acknowledge that we are all sinners who need a Savior. But then speak the truth in love. Start by telling people about a King (God) who loves them so much that He left the glory and perfection of Heaven to come to Earth in human form to save our souls. Encourage them to read John 3:16-17 for details. Let the people know that this Eternal King offers them life after death in a place (Heaven) so wonderful that no human words in any language can describe. Let the people know that the way to have eternal life after death is through accepting the free gift of salvation offered through a relationship with God’s Son (Jesus Christ). Third, be prepared to share your testimony about why you believe in God and have accepted Jesus as your Savior. When I worked as a journalist, I had a conversation with a co-worker. He wanted to talk about my faith in God. After I told him why I believe in God and follow Jesus Christ, the conversation turned to the Bible. He told me that the Bible doesn’t make sense when you read it from a journalist's perspective. I didn’t know what to say then, but years and more life experience later, I realize I should have responded that you have to read the Bible through a lens of faith with help from The Holy Spirit to understand it because spiritual things are spiritually discerned (1 Corinthians 2:14). When I told him that God has sheep in other pastures (John 10:16), he became offended. He told me that he hates it when Christians say that because he is not dumb like a sheep. I realized then that I didn’t know how to reach him with God’s truth. I knew not to be aggressive in witnessing about Christ to him, and I did my best to speak the truth in love, but I didn’t have the life experiences and deeper wisdom that I have now. I wasn’t equipped to effectively win his soul to Jesus. But I believe I did plant a seed of faith in him during that conversation, and I know that God can send more Christ-followers to him and everyone else who doesn’t know Jesus yet, and those Christians can water the seeds I and others planted to the point where, if he is willing, he can have faith in Jesus that blooms. Finally, I’d like to say that people have to be willing to follow Jesus. God will never force anybody to believe in Him and follow Christ. He gave us all free will. But He does encourage us to choose life (Deuteronomy 30:19). What I learned from my conversations with people over the years is that when witnessing, it is more effective if you meet unbelievers on their level and speak in terms they can understand. Just like an effective teacher learns the learning styles of each of their students, then tailors each lesson to speak to them in a way they will understand, we as Christians need to follow a similar suit when witnessing. In closing, I’d like for you to listen and reflect on three songs (listed below). Song of Reflection #1: “The Introduction” by Laos in Harmony. Listen to it HERE. Song of Reflection #2: “Know Us By Our Love” by Moriah. Listen to it HERE. Song of Reflection #3: “Forever” by Kari Jobe Carnes. Listen to it HERE. Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you know Jesus Christ as your Savior? How can you, who know Jesus, tell the world about our Savior in a kind way? Further Reading: John 14:1-6 Romans 6:23 1 Peter 3:15-16 Matthew 5:16 2 Corinthians 5:20 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Through the story of Abraham, we see what it means to trust God before seeing the outcome. God promised Abraham descendants, a land, and a legacy that would bless generations. Yet many of those promises took years—and even generations—to unfold. Abraham did not always understand how God would fulfill His promises, and he did not live to see every part of them completed. Still, God remained faithful. When progress feels slow or the results of our work remain unseen, it can be tempting to quit. But a lack of visible results does not mean God is absent or inactive. Faith often means continuing to obey, trust, and move forward while we wait for God's purposes to unfold. Highlights What Abraham's story teaches us about trusting God's timing Why God's promises are not always fulfilled according to our preferred timeline How Abraham waited years to see the birth of Isaac Why faith means obeying God even when we do not know the outcome How discouragement can grow when we focus only on visible results Why a lack of immediate progress does not mean God is not working How remembering God's faithfulness can strengthen us while we wait Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword 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: Faith While We WaitBy: Laura Bailey Bible Reading: “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Genesis 12:2-3 (NIV) “I am done! I have spent hours investing in this ministry, and after a year, still nothing has changed,” I yelled into the air. I’d felt confident in God’s leading me to start this new program for the community, yet everywhere I turned, I was faced with opposition, roadblocks, and general disappointment. Admittedly, I am great at starting things but horrible at finishing them– especially when I can’t see the fruits of my labor. I shared with my husband that I was contemplating throwing in the towel; I’d obviously misheard God speaking to my heart. My husband, who, thank goodness, is always there to calm me and offer a word of encouragement or a different perspective, gently nudged me to recall what we’d been studying in Sunday School recently. A few months prior, my husband and I began teaching through the book of Genesis, line by line. Just the previous week, we covered God’s promise to Abraham to make him into a great nation. God promises to give Abraham a purpose, a place, and people, but God doesn’t tell him how or when He will fulfill them. ⁠ Let’s look at the first part of God’s promise to make Abraham into a great nation. This promise would have been difficult for Abraham to digest because at the time, he and his wife, Sarah, were childless. Abraham did have a son with his female slave, Hagar, but God is clear that he is not the one to whom God will fulfill his promise (Genesis 21:5). Eventually, God does give Sarah and Abraham a child, Isaac, but it is 25 years later! Talk about a test of patience and faith. The Lord also promises, “To your offspring I will give this land (Genesis 12:7). Abraham moves his family from the place they’ve always called home into a foreign land where they are strangers, temporary residents, all on a promise of future ownership. Abraham spends his life traveling through the Promised Land as a visitor; he never takes ownership in his lifetime. And, it will be many years before the Israelites inhabit it, after centuries of trials and tribulations. God does make Abraham’s name great so that he can bless the many generations before him. Yet, this doesn’t happen overnight; Abraham dies before he sees the fulfillment of God’s promises. But as we know, God was faithful to keep His promise. It’s easy to get discouraged when we don’t see earthly results, but that doesn’t mean God isn't at work. God works on His timeline, not ours. Abraham is listed in Hebrews 11 as a man who walked by faith. If you read through Abraham’s story, you will see that he didn’t always walk by faith flawlessly, yet he trusted in God to keep His promises. Abraham obeyed God’s commands without knowing the outcome. As I think about Abraham and the numerous others in Scripture who walked by faith, even when they didn’t see results, they continued to press on to what God called them to do. Selfishly, I pray I will be able to see positive movement in ministry visually, but if not, I’ll remind myself that even when I can’t see it, God is faithful. Intersecting Faith & Life: Has God called you to something, but you are struggling to remain faithful? Write down 3 promises that God fulfilled in Scripture and put them somewhere to encourage you when you're wavering. Further Reading: Unwavering Faith Amid Uncertainty Hebrews 11 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What does it mean to keep going when life takes an unexpected and painful turn? We reflect on Hebrews 11:1 and the importance of cultivating faith, hope, and confidence in God—even when we cannot see what lies ahead. Through the story of Otto Frank and the legacy he carried forward after unimaginable loss, we are reminded that pain does not have to be the end of our story. While we may face seasons of doubt, grief, uncertainty, or struggle, faith invites us to continue trusting God when the path ahead is unclear. The Bible reminds us that faith is more than simply believing when life is easy. It is confidence in God when we cannot yet see the outcome. Through prayer, Scripture, and an active relationship with Him, we can strengthen our trust and keep moving forward—one faithful step at a time. Highlights Discover what Hebrews 11:1 teaches about faith, hope, and trusting God. Learn how faith can help us keep going through difficult and uncertain seasons. Reflect on the difference between seeing the outcome and trusting God without seeing it. Find encouragement for moments when doubt and unbelief begin to take hold. Explore how prayer and Bible reading can help cultivate stronger faith. Remember the prayer from Mark 9:24: “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword 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: Cultivating the Faith to Keep GoingBy Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1). Otto Frank, the sole survivor of the eight Jews in hiding within the Secret Annex, would have felt intense loss upon his return to Amsterdam after the Allies' defeat of Nazi Germany. He was already notified by previous prisoners about the death of his wife, Edith. She had died in Auschwitz due to starvation. However, he had hope that his two daughters, Margot and Anne, were still alive. This was the hope that ultimately kept him alive. Through the Red Cross, sisters Janny and Lien Brilleslijper, contacted Otto and notified him of the death of his two daughters. They had both died of typhus in Bergen-Belsen. Unable to stand the pain, he confided in the helpers of the Secret Annex: Miep Gies, Jan Gies, Victor Kugler, Johannes Kleiman, Bep Voskuijl, and Johan Voskuijl. Although several of them had been taken by the Nazis after their hiding place was discovered, they were able to escape or be released based on medical reasons. Once Miep was notified that Anne had passed away in Bergen-Belsen, she handed Anne’s beloved diary to Otto. At first, Otto could not bring himself to read it, yet with time, he became absorbed in his daughter’s writing. He would later reflect that it was only through Anne’s diary that he truly knew her. In Anne’s Diary, Anne disclosed how there were two versions of herself: the outgoing, bubbly version and the quiet, reserved, and thoughtful version. Otto said he never knew his daughter held such expressive views and thoughts. He encouraged every parent to truly get to know their child, support them, and be the parent you wanted your parents to be to you. For the rest of his life, Otto dedicated his time and energy to bringing awareness to Anne’s diary, advocating for acceptance over hate, and the need to end anti-semitism. To prevent the past from repeating, we must learn from it. Although Otto had been through unspeakable pain, he used what resources he had to keep the memory of his daughter alive. Through Otto, the Anne Frank Fonds was founded in January 1963. He also founded the Anne Frank House, which attracts over 1.3 million people every year. Intersecting Faith & Life: The Bible tells us, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1). Although Otto’s hope was dashed to pieces after hearing the news of his daughters’ deaths, he kept pushing forward in life. He had a purpose: to make his daughter’s memory known to the world and to fulfill her wish to become a writer. In our own lives, we must advance with this same confidence. If we have faith in God, nothing can hinder our lives. Cultivating faith in God can be challenging, especially if we have experienced a troubling time, but we are never without help. The Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit can foster a steadfast hope within us. This hope is like an everlasting candle; a candle that can never burn out. What is currently bringing doubts into your heart? Perhaps you are doubtful that God will bring you out of this difficult season, or if you will overcome a certain sin you are struggling with. Rather than doubting God, believe. As the father of the sick child said, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24). Overcoming doubts and unbelief can be realized by spending time with God in prayer and Bible reading. By actively participating in your relationship with God, your faith in Him will grow. There may be difficult times ahead, but if your faith in God is strong, you can overcome even the toughest of situations. As the writer of Hebrews says, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him” (Hebrews 11:6). Foster hope in God; He will never fail you. Do you doubt God in your daily life? What are some ways you can cultivate hope, confidence, and trust in God? Further Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:7 Romans 15:13 Isaiah 43:2 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Strong relationships are not built simply by having the right advice or knowing exactly what to say. Sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is listen. Kelly Balarie explores the wisdom of James 1:19 and the importance of becoming a thoughtful listener instead of rushing to conclusions. It can be easy to hear only part of someone's words and fill in the gaps with our own assumptions. But truly listening requires patience. It means slowing down long enough to understand not only what someone is saying, but also what may be beneath their words and what they may genuinely need from us. Highlights Why jumping to conclusions can damage communication What it means to be “quick to hear” and “slow to speak” How assumptions can keep us from truly understanding others Three things to listen for: what is being said, what may be beneath the words, and what the person may need Why the right words can still hurt when delivered with the wrong tone or timing How being slow to anger helps create space for understanding Why seeking to understand is more powerful than simply trying to prove a point Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword 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: One Tip to Forge Strong RelationshipsBy Kelly Balarie Bible Reading:“Understand this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Let everyone be quick to hear [be a careful, thoughtful listener], slow to speak [a speaker of carefully chosen words and], slow to anger [patient, reflective, forgiving]…” – James 1:19 AMPC I heard the first half of what she said, “Mom, I really don’t want to…because…”. But what I didn’t hear was everything after she spoke the word “because”. All that? Her words were muffled. I entirely missed the last part of everything she said. So, I just filled in the gap with my own conclusion. And my conclusion was not positive. I figured the worst. “Mom, that’s not even what I am saying,” she said. “You’re not even listening. You’re getting it all wrong; I didn’t even say that.” She was right; I jumped to conclusions. Ever been there? Maybe I’m not alone. Sometimes it is easy to fill in blanks with our own thoughts. It’s hard to endure gaps, waits, and the unknown. It is easier to get to the point, the end of the story, the conclusion, and to wrap things up with a bow. I’m sure that most of us love to get to our favorite part of a song. The beginning lines hang in waiting until we can make it to the chorus that unloads the song. We don’t like waiting. However, I’m learning, waiting is wisdom. James 1:19 AMPC says, “Understand this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Let everyone be quick to hear [be a careful, thoughtful listener], slow to speak [a speaker of carefully chosen words and], slow to anger [patient, reflective, forgiving]…” True understanding is thoughtful listening. Thoughtful listening often requires us to listen more deeply to understand more fully. It requires us to hear: What is being said on face value? What is under the surface of the speaker’s words? What the other person needs. Words have the ability to heal or hurt. How many of us can remember a mean word spoken over us in middle school? It’s funny, the kind words don’t last, but the mean ones seem to. We remember a word for decades, as if it were yesterday. God knows, this is why His Word instructs us to be slow to speak. Not everything we think needs to be said. In fact, the less we say, the more impact what we do say has. The key? Rightly discerning what God wants said. Rightly understanding what needs to be said. Rightly noticing the proper time to say it. A wise counselor could give the most biblical advice ever, but if it is said with the wrong tone, at the wrong time, or belabored in the wrong way, it most certainly will fall on deaf ears. We can be right in our words and absolutely wrong in our delivery. We can speak the truth and actually hurt someone with it if we do so from a spirit of anger. To build strong relationships is to seek to understand. People know when one wants to be right and when they want to understand; there is a difference. This is why we are quick to listen. Because loving is listening. Understanding lets others know we are there for them rather than proving a point. And love is what we are after. Intersecting Faith & Life: What would it look like for you to truly listen? Do you formulate comebacks in your mind before the other person is done speaking, or do you truly listen to what they are saying? Rather than giving advice or having all the answers, what would it look like for you to put yourself in their shoes – and care. Doing this forges strong and trustworthy relationships. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Parenting can come with plenty of unsolicited comments, especially when you're out in public with your children. In “Reminding Our Hearts That Children Are a Blessing,” Emily Rose Massey challenges us to look beyond cultural attitudes toward children and remember what Scripture says about their value. Psalm 127:3 calls children a gift from the Lord and a reward, giving parents a biblical perspective when the world may treat children as a burden or inconvenience. Our words matter, especially because children are always watching and listening. Emily encourages parents to respond to insensitive comments with truth and grace while also challenging Christians to become people who encourage other parents rather than add to their burdens. When we see children as God sees them, our response can become an opportunity to point others toward His goodness, faithfulness, and grace. Highlights Why common comments about parenting can affect both parents and children What Psalm 127:3 teaches us about the value of children How cultural attitudes can cause us to view children as a burden Why Christians are called to think differently from the culture around them How parents can respond to insensitive comments with truth and love Why children are paying attention to the way adults speak about them How everyday interactions can become opportunities to live out our faith Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword 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: Reminding Our Hearts That Children Are a Blessing By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading: “Behold, children are a gift of the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward” (Psalm 127:3, NASB 1995). “You have your hands full!” If I had a dollar for every time I have heard that phrase in my ten years of being a mom when I was out and about with my kids in public, I would probably be a quasi-millionaire! Well, that might be an over-exaggeration, but I have heard it quite often! Although I know most people are just trying to find something to say to connect with a stranger, I do wish we could find a different phrase to say that encourages moms with little ones who take them out in public. A few times recently, that common phrase was followed up with some extremely rude and inappropriate remarks when they found out that I did not, in fact, have all my children with me and that I had more at home. Our children also hear those negative comments about them. They are much smarter and more observant than we give them credit for sometimes. How do we think their little hearts are being impacted by what strangers believe about their mere existence? It often makes me question how we, as a society, truly view children or big families in general. I only have four children, so I cannot imagine what moms with more than that might hear while grocery shopping! Truthfully, I think we need to pay attention to what the scriptures say about children because God created them. God calls children a blessing, a gift from the Giver of good gifts. Do we have eyes to see them as a blessing? “Behold, children are a gift of the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward” (Psalm 127:3, NASB 1995). Intersecting Life & Faith: I understand that those who are not Christians dismiss what the Bible says about any topic, so we should not be very shocked when the world behaves in a worldly way or says unlovely things about what God has created. Unfortunately, our culture speaks more highly of pets than of children. As Christians, though, we need to live counter-culturally and not get swept up in the world’s ways or thinking. We all might be guilty of viewing children as a burden or annoyance from time to time. It’s human nature to be selfish and bothered by anyone (even those tiny ones) who may interrupt our plans or embarrass us in public. We must remind our hearts of what God says about these precious little souls, and we must lead by example. I have shared some of my thoughts regarding these comments in public with my friends who are moms of little ones to encourage them not to grow offended, but to meet these remarks with truth and love. One idea a dear friend shared with me was that when someone tells her that she has her hands full, she responds, “Not as full as my heart!” Friends, this is our opportunity to boast in the Lord’s goodness for blessing us with these children that He calls a reward! Our response to them testifies to our faith in Jesus Christ and can challenge their own thinking about how they view God’s blessings, especially if the person professes to be a follower of Christ. I think it is important to be prepared to have these kind and truthful responses when we are out in public with our children. What other phrases come to mind that you can offer to the strangers who might choose to connect with you about your kids? Ask the Lord for these opportunities to not only respond lovingly but perhaps even engage in conversation about God’s faithfulness and grace that you experience in parenthood. Let’s live our faith out loud when we are running errands at the grocery store, the post office, the doctor’s office, or waiting in line to order some lunch. How can you encourage moms and dads when they are in public with their kids so that they also know that their children are not seen as a burden or nuisance? Our kids are always listening and watching! What kind of response will they hear from your lips when someone tries to shame their existence? I hope they hear how much you love them and thank the Lord for giving you such amazing gifts from above. More importantly, the Lord is listening and watching how we speak of children in our lives or around us. Thank You, Lord, for our children… what abundant blessings they are to our lives! May You receive all the glory in our hearts and lives as parents to these precious souls. Further Reading: Matthew 18 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Stress can affect every area of life, from finances and work to family and relationships. But when pressure builds, where do we turn first? In “Staying Strong, Not Stressed,” Cindi McMenamin explains why taking our stress to God before placing emotional expectations on the people around us can strengthen both our faith and our relationships. God already knows every thought, frustration, and word before we express it, making Him the perfect place to bring our burdens first. Cindi shares three practical habits for navigating stressful seasons: tell God first, trust His promises, and thank Him constantly. While these practices may not immediately change our circumstances, they can change how we respond to them and help us become a source of encouragement rather than additional stress for those around us. Highlights Why stress can unintentionally create tension in our closest relationships How taking our frustrations to God first can provide stability and perspective Why we shouldn't expect our spouse, children, or friends to carry the full weight of our emotional needs The Three T's for handling stress: Tell God First, Trust God's Promises, and Thank God Constantly How Scripture provides encouragement when facing financial, relational, work, or health-related stress Why gratitude can change our attitude even when circumstances remain difficult How depending on God can help us become better encouragers to others Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword 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: Staying Strong, Not Stressed By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading:Even before there is a word on my tongue,Behold, Lord, You know it all (Psalm 139:4 NASB). Stress—whether it’s physical, emotional, relational, or financial—can take its toll on any of us. But how do we handle stress so we don’t push others away from us? I used to find myself reaching out to my husband or my young adult daughter to get the relief, encouragement, or support I needed to get through stressful times. I would provide explanations for my stressed-out behavior and seek their understanding. But I’ve learned through the years that having such expectations of others can backfire. You and I can push our marriages over the edge if we let our spouses know they are not meeting our emotional needs or expectations at a time when they might be dealing with multiple frustrations as well. We can also damage our relationships with our children—regardless of their ages—when we expect them to be there for us, emotionally, when they might not feel equipped to do what it is we are expecting of them, or respond in a way that will meet our emotional needs. There have been many times in the past several years that I’ve had to make a conscious decision not to lay my expectations on my husband or daughter when I’ve felt particularly stressed, regardless of the source. And as I began to take my troubles and stressful times to God first, I found that I was not only more able and stable to deal with whatever came my way, but I could help others in my family through whatever they were going through, as well. David sang in Psalm 139:4 that God knows everything we are going to say, even before there is a word on our tongues. He knows our thoughts before we think them, our words before we say them, and our actions before we carry them out. Certainly, a God like that is the One we should be going to first when we begin to feel stressed. Intersecting Faith & Life: Today, when stress starts rearing its ugly head in my life, I practice these “Three T’s” on a daily basis to stay strong during difficult times: Tell God First—Sometimes you and I need to vent or just talk aloud about what we’re feeling. But our frustrations can come across as accusations or complaints if we’re not careful. And since it is natural for others who love and care about us to try to find a solution to fix our stressful situation, when we just wanted someone to listen, it’s better to go to God with the venting first. Sure, God already knows what we’re going to say, according to Psalm 139:4. But by telling God first all that is on our hearts and minds, He can be the “buffer.” Trust God’s Promises—The Bible is full of God’s promises about His provision and protection. So, when we become troubled about finances, or a work deadline, or health issues, we can find comfort just by remembering some of God’s encouraging words to His people. In Philippians 4:19, Paul says, “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” And Romans 8:28 tells us, “we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Keep stress sidelined by banking on the promises in the Bible and taking God at His Word. Thank God Constantly—No matter what the situation, there’s always something to be thankful for. One of my friends was discouraged that her husband’s new job didn’t pay as well as his previous one. But some income was better than none. Another friend complained about her teenager’s disinterest in school and his unwillingness to "apply himself,” yet he was still very interested in his church's youth group. We can become people of praise with a contagious positive attitude when we obey God’s command in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 to “give thanks in all circumstances.” A thankful spouse, parent, or friend is pleasant to be around. When you and I practice these three T’s—telling God first, trusting His promises, and thanking Him constantly—our circumstances might not change immediately. But by depending on God—and not solely on others—we can not only alleviate the stress in our lives, but we can become encouragers who model to others how to handle stress in their lives as well. Further Reading:Psalm 62:5-8 To grow more dependent on God, and improve your relationships, 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.

Is your life part of a greater purpose, or can it sometimes feel like a collection of random circumstances? In this devotional, Megan J. Conner explores what Romans 8:28-30 teaches about God’s purpose, His sovereignty, and His ability to work through every part of our lives. Your story is not an accident, and your circumstances are not beyond God’s reach. From creation to the way God knows and loves each of us personally, Scripture points to a God who has been present throughout our entire story. Even when we cannot understand what He is doing, we can trust that He is working all things together for good and drawing us closer to Him. Highlights Why it’s natural to wonder whether your life has a purpose What Romans 8:28-30 reveals about God’s plan and purpose How creation points to the intentional design of our Creator Why your life is not simply a random collection of circumstances How God can use every part of your story to draw you closer to Him The importance of seeking biblical discernment when considering life's bigger questions How gratitude can help us recognize where God has already been working Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword 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: Working All Things for GoodBy Megan J. Conner Bible Reading:“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory.” - Rom. 8:28-30 (NLT) Have you ever wondered if God has a plan and a purpose for you? Or does it seem like your life has aimlessly evolved over time? Do you believe the circumstances you are in now are the result of fate or predestination? Or do you think your journey on this earth has simply been happenstance, a completely random assortment of events with no rhyme or reason behind each occurrence? These are tough questions that many of us tend to wrestle with internally. Whether we share these musings with others or not, many of us ponder whether our lives really have a purpose, and, if so, who or what is behind it. The world offers boundless explanations for humanity’s origin and design. From pointless existence to eternal destiny, it seems there are ideologies ready to appease any appetite or preference. However, an abundance of theories can cause chaos and confusion rather than promote confident assurance. This is why we must carefully consider and ask for God’s help with discernment as we contemplate the deeper meaning of each of our lives, so that we… “won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth,” (Eph. 4:14, NLT). As you seek to understand your reason for being, the answers might be much closer than you think. You do not need to travel the world or climb the highest mountain peak in search of purpose. You don’t need to exhaustively study to ascertain the origin of wisdom. You simply need to look up and look out. The answers you seek are evident right in front of your very eyes through creation. Nature, in all of its glory, demonstrates the divine. Majestic, intelligent design causes the sun to rise and set, the earth to orbit through the universe, and each individual heart to beat without conscious thought or effort. John 1:3 states, “God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him,” (NLT). Our Maker separated the sky from the waters, established all manner of life from the smallest seed to the giant sequoias, and formed you personally, individually, uniquely in your mother’s womb (Ps. 139:13). He knew you before you spoke your first word. He treasured you before you were even aware of his existence. So great is God’s love for you that he chose to proactively cover your sin and separation from God through the sacrifice of his only Son (John 3:16, Rom. 5:8). Even further, he has caused all things to work together for your good. Your life is not an accident. It is not the result of an arbitrary series of events. He has known you and chosen you. His eye has been upon every moment of your life. He has predestined your steps so that you would be drawn closer to him and share in his glory. Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you feel that your life has meaning and purpose? Or do you wrestle with a lack of fulfillment and clarity? Have you wondered if your journey through life has been a haphazard assortment of random events? Or do you believe God has had a plan and a purpose behind every step? Regardless of which side you find yourself on, may I encourage you to take some time to reflect on today’s truths? If you read these words with confidence and assurance that God has been at work in your life, take some time to thank him for his good work. Think through specific circumstances where you know God was a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path (Ps. 119:05) and offer a prayer of gratitude. If today’s message was unfamiliar and challenged you to consider God’s presence in the design of your life, may I encourage you to recite this simple prayer below? As you pray, ask the Lord to give you eyes to clearly see how he has been at work in and through your life. Lord, I come to you today unsure of your plans and purpose in my life. Would you help me to visibly see how you have been present and at work in my journey thus far? Even though I am still a bit unsure, I choose to believe that you see me and know me. Help me to fully comprehend your love for me. Amen. Further Reading:Rom. 5:5-11John 3:16 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.