The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

Stepping into a new season of life can feel overwhelming, uncertain, and even intimidating—but Jeremiah 1:4-8 reminds us that God calls and equips us long before we feel ready. When you're entering a season of change, it’s easy to focus on your limitations, asking “Am I enough?” or “Do I have what it takes?” Yet God’s response is clear: don’t let your “I’m only…” define you—His calling is greater than your doubts. Growth rarely comes with a clear roadmap. Instead of giving us all the answers upfront, God invites us to trust Him one step at a time. Whether you're graduating, starting something new, or simply navigating an unexpected transition, your role isn’t to have everything figured out—it’s to be available and obedient where you are. As you release control and surrender your plans, you’ll begin to see that God’s purpose unfolds in the process, not all at once. Highlights 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 Entering a Season of Change By Hannah Benson Bible Reading: “Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying, ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.’ Then I said, ‘Ah, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.’ But the Lord said to me, ‘Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’; for to all to whom I send you, you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the Lord’” (Jeremiah 1:4-8 ESV). I remember when I graduated from high school. I was homeschooled my entire life, so when it was time for me to graduate, we joined a bunch of other homeschooling families and their high school seniors so we could walk across the stage and receive our diplomas from our parents. I don’t know how to describe that moment. I was leaving my childhood behind. Stepping into adulthood. And yet, on the other hand, almost nothing would change. Instead of going to college, I would get a job. But I still planned to live at home. Yet I still felt this sense of apprehensive excitement. What did the future hold? I had so many dreams for the future. I knew God had called me to write for Him, but what would that look like? What about the passion burning within me since I was a little girl—to somehow be involved in the film industry, making movies for Jesus? Can you relate? Whether you’re graduating this year or simply stepping into a new season, change can be both scary and exciting. As a new graduate, I felt in some ways like the prophet Jeremiah when God called him. Inadequate. I’m pretty sure I used the “I’m only a youth” line—or something similar—as I prayed in the years leading up to my high-school graduation. We can all feel small at times. People thought that when I graduated, I had my life figured out. Or more figured out than most. I knew God wanted me to write books and that I wasn’t going to college—at least at that point. While I couldn’t deny the feeling that writing books was only a portion of what God wanted me to do, I didn’t know what else He wanted me to do. The truth is, from the time I was young, I wanted to change the world for Jesus—but I didn’t know how. I felt so small. How could I reach the world for Jesus from home? Over time, God showed me that I didn’t need to figure out the “how” but to surrender it to Him. More important than me knowing the “where,” “when,” “why,” and “how” of it all, God wanted my heart to be available and for me to serve Him where He had me. I’d always sensed travel of some kind might be in my future, but working regularly from home didn’t feel like it could...

Feeling unseen, overlooked, or forgotten? Genesis 16:13 reveals a powerful truth—God is El Roi, “the God who sees me”—reminding us that our deepest need to be known and valued is fully met in Him. In a world that constantly pushes us to chase recognition, validation, and visibility, Scripture redirects our focus to a God who already sees every detail of our lives. Hagar’s story shows us that even in moments of isolation, pain, and injustice, God is present and attentive. He sees what others miss. He cares when others overlook. Instead of striving to be noticed by people who cannot truly fulfill us, we’re invited to rest in the steady, personal, and unchanging attention of our Creator. When we anchor our identity in being seen by God, we find lasting security, purpose, and peace. Highlights El Roi 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: Seen by God By Alexis A. Goring Bible Reading: Thereafter, Hagar used another name to refer to the Lord, who had spoken to her. She said, “You are the God who sees me.” She also said, “Have I truly seen the One who sees me?” —Genesis 16:13 NLT Recently, I read a news story headline that said 100 people gathered to be in a music video. They wanted to be seen. Especially here in the USA, there is a fascination with being an extra in a movie or becoming a professional actor and famous movie star. People often say they do this because they want to make an impact, be seen, be heard, be noticed, and be remembered. This made me think. Why do we rush to be seen by people on television, in music videos, at big events, and on social media? Perhaps it is because, deep inside, every human has a need to be seen. We want to know that we matter. We want to be acknowledged, recognized, and celebrated. This is a totally normal part of our human experience, but is it healthy if we’re chasing after fame more than seeking God? While there may not be anything wrong with wanting to be seen and remembered by the people in our world, I would like to encourage you with this timeless truth: You are seen by God. He is the Creator of the universe and all the galaxies. There is a popular inspirational quote that says: “How cool is it that the same God who created mountains, oceans, and galaxies looked at you and thought the world needed one of you, too.” God loves you. He knows you. He sees you. In a world where we are challenged to prove that we matter, we need to remember our Creator loves us endlessly. We matter to Him. The Bible says God knew us before we were born (Jeremiah 1:5). It also says God knit us together in our mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13). This means God sees us as no one else can. He created humankind with deep care and attention to detail. The Bible says all the hairs on our head are numbered (Luke 12:7). If you have a lot of hair on your head, then you may see the significance of this statement on a deeper level. God sees everything you go through during your life here on Earth, and He will intervene where needed, as He did for Hagar. She was the servant of Abraham and Sarah. They feared God but were childless well into what we would call their golden years. When God promised them that they would have a son, they didn’t believe Him because of their old age and the fact that Sarah was past her childbearing years. Therefore, after waiting on God for a while, Sarah became impatient and decided with her husband to take the matter into their own hands by making Hagar pregnant by Abraham. After Hagar knew she was with child, Sarah became jealous and mistreated Hagar. Hagar took her baby and ran into the wilderness to escape all the abuse. It was there while she wept alone in...

Breaking free from people-pleasing and the fear of man starts with one truth—Proverbs 29:25 shows that trusting God leads to peace, while seeking approval from others leads to anxiety and exhaustion. When our identity is tied to what others think, we get stuck in cycles of overthinking, second-guessing, and striving for approval that never fully satisfies. Real freedom comes when we shift our focus from people to God. Instead of replaying conversations or trying to manage others’ perceptions, we can rest in the truth that our worth is already secure in Him. Living for an “audience of One” brings clarity, confidence, and peace—because God’s love isn’t earned through performance, it’s already given. When we trust Him fully, we’re no longer trapped by others’ opinions but grounded in His unchanging truth. Highlights 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 Power of Other People By Megan J. Conner Bible Reading: “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.” - Proverbs 29:25 (NIV) If there is one thing in life I constantly wrestle with, it is the fear of man. I am a natural people-pleaser through and through. I cannot even count how many endless nights of sleep I have lost, or the infinite number of hours I have wasted away in worry over what other people think of me. If I feel that I have upset someone or failed them in some way, I will recite and rehearse the conversation or interaction over and over in my head. I will think through every possible scenario in which I could have handled things differently. Then, I will go through all of the ways I can repair the damage or change their impression of me. I agonize over possible resolutions. Perhaps I should go apologize… Or maybe if I get another friend to go and champion my cause, that would help change their minds… Round and round I go with no reprieve. Does any of this sound familiar to you? What is so ridiculous about this whole ordeal is that, more than likely, I am the only person obsessing over the situation. Is it possible that someone does think poorly of me, maybe even seriously dislikes me, because of a comment or decision I made? Yes, absolutely. But is it also possible that they had their moment of irritation and have moved on, while I am over here wallowing in worry? Yes – 100%. Yet more often than not, I can’t seem to break free from this train of thought. Even further, once I have suffered through one of these unpleasant disappointments, I become fearful of future interactions. I become more reserved and careful. Over time, I retreat into my shell of self-protection and either avoid interactions with others as much as possible or I present a masked version of my real self when in public to safeguard my tender heart. What a mess, right? How can we obtain hope and freedom when we find ourselves trapped in the bondage of people-pleasing? First, we need to look past ourselves. It is a shockingly simple solution, but one we often fail to recognize. If you skim through the previous paragraphs, you will notice one very clear theme. It is all about ME. There is no mention of the Lord in those circumstances; just my own thoughts, my own hurt and rejection, my own solutions to my projected problems. As elementary as it sounds, our emotions can easily override our faith and our dependence on the One who provides all that we need. Our Heavenly Father sees us as perfect and worthy just as we are. He is the One who formed us perfectly in our mother’s wombs (Ps. 139:13). He knows the number of hairs on our heads (Matt. 10:30). That is how intimately He knows and loves us. We are His precious children. We are...

How do you know if a prophetic word is truly from God? 2 Peter 1:21 reminds us that prophecy comes from the Holy Spirit—not human will—which means it must be tested, discerned, and handled with humility. While spiritual gifts like prophecy can be powerful and encouraging, they also require wisdom. Not every impression is perfectly interpreted, and not every word is immediately understood. That’s why Scripture calls us to weigh prophetic words carefully. Sometimes God reveals only a small piece of a bigger picture, and our role is not just to receive or deliver a word, but to discern it in community and align it with God’s truth. When approached with humility, patience, and accountability, prophecy becomes a tool that builds up the church, strengthens faith, and deepens our relationship with God. Highlights 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: Test Prophetic Words Carefully By: Michelle Lazurek Bible Reading: “For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as the Holy Spirit carried them along.” - 2 Peter 1:21 During a recent retreat for mothers and daughters to connect, learn about God's attributes, and hear his voice, we had a time of prayer in which we blessed the mothers and daughters and commissioned them to go out and spread the gospel. At one point during prayer, the mother and daughter sat before me. Placing my hand on her left shoulder, I immediately got a word for the daughter. It was a picture of a violin. I had no other words or explanation as to its meaning. I told her that I didn't understand what the picture was, but that it had appeared. After everyone had prayed, I went to get a tissue for the mother and daughter. Upon my return, the daughter explained that she had played violin but then stopped. We laughed because we realized that that was what the Holy Spirit was saying. He was telling her to pick up her violin and make music for him. In the church body, we are wired with spiritual gifts. Some of those gifts are considered miraculous gifts, including the gift of prophecy. Prophecy is a message delivered to someone by God. Although it is exciting to deliver a prophetic word to another person, we often misinterpret it. This is where errors and other issues become a problem. Although we are quick to call someone a false prophet simply because they made an error in delivering their message, that doesn't mean the message itself was wrong. It simply means the person delivering it misinterpreted it. The difficult part of prophecy is that we only get small snippets of a bigger picture. When I got that picture of the violin, I had no idea the daughter had played the violin before. Whether he wants her to resume playing the violin remains to be seen. However, he clearly had a message for her regarding her music with that instrument. If a person does not know how to interpret prophetic words for their lives, they can often be dismissed or ignored completely. Scripture tells us to test prophecy and to allow two or three people to weigh what is being said. Although those kinds of things can get tricky at times because many people are not trained in the prophetic, it is important that, even in community, we explore the miraculous gifts together. The above verse tells us that prophecy comes from the Holy Spirit, not from human will. However, because we have difficulty distinguishing between our own human emotions, thought processes, and prophecy, it can be difficult to discern whether a word is truly from God. However, that does not mean you should not deliver a word. Rather, it is important to test that word with two or three people who have...

The people you surround yourself with shape your faith more than you might realize—Proverbs 27:17 reminds us that godly friendships sharpen, strengthen, and grow us spiritually. We were created for connection, but not all relationships are equal. Some leave us feeling empty, while others challenge us, encourage us, and draw us closer to God. The difference often comes down to whether those friendships are rooted in Christ. Healthy, faith-filled friendships don’t just happen by accident—they’re formed when we seek God first and intentionally pursue relationships that reflect His love and truth. When we walk alongside others who are also growing in their faith, something powerful happens: we begin to reflect Christ more clearly, carry each other’s burdens, and stay anchored when life gets difficult. These are the kinds of friendships that don’t just fill time—they transform lives. Highlights 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: Friendships That Fan the Flame of Your Faith By Keri Eichberger Bible Reading: As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. (Proverbs 27:17 NLT) There was a long shadow-of-a-season in my life that I stepped out of with very few friends. It was a dark and lonely stretch. A time that I truly and desperately needed people. But because of who I had chosen to surround myself with, I didn’t find the companionship, the support, and the sincere love of genuine friendship. And I can’t blame anyone but myself. I wasn’t seeking out the right people. I also didn’t find a friend in Jesus. Not that he wasn’t there—he absolutely always was—But I didn’t call on or cling to him. Instead, I was hanging out with and onto flimsy, empty relationships connected solely by shallow interests. People who didn’t bring much beyond meaningless moments and fleeting, artificial fun. I look back, sorry and sad for that girl. Has that ever been you? Have you found yourself regularly surrounded by people you aren’t sure you should call friends? Maybe you can also recall longing for deeper connections than you had then? Or maybe you currently wonder if that’s part of your story now? Or perhaps, like me, you previously pursued faulty friendships, but now have a handful of people you’ve been abundantly blessed by and thank God for greatly. I’ve certainly learned so much since that past season. Most importantly, I’ve learned to seek God first. I’ve learned Jesus has always—in every season and from the beginning—wanted to be my friend. And that he is the absolute best friend. Better and more than any person could ever be. Ever-present, always listening, constantly compassionate. Unfailingly faithful and unconditionally loving. Provider, protector, peace-maker, and perfect shepherd. Additionally, I’ve learned to seek out and serve God’s children, his church, and his kingdom. And I have learned that in time, he places people in our path. His people. Regardless of the connections you have, or lack thereof, we all long for rich connections. Because that’s the way God designed us—for community. And that’s why Jesus, here on earth, demonstrated a focus on fellowship with others. It was part of his plan and purpose for his people. Proverbs 27:17 states, As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. The Amplified Bible version reads, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens [and influences] another [through discussion].” I love how this version uses the word “influences,” reminding us of the impact and significance of the connections we make. Of those around us. And of the friends we choose and surround ourselves with. Seeking, gaining, and maintaining Christian friends—who alongside us are learning...

Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or mentally exhausted? Psalm 143:7–8 reminds us that we can be honest with God about our mental health, trusting Him to meet us in our struggles and guide us toward peace and healing. David’s prayer is raw and unfiltered—he doesn’t hide his pain, and neither should we. God isn’t asking for polished prayers; He invites us to come as we are, even when our thoughts feel heavy and our spirits feel weak. Being honest with God is not a sign of weak faith—it’s actually evidence of trust. When we stop trying to hide or “fix” ourselves before approaching Him, we open the door for real connection and healing. God already knows what we’re carrying, and He cares deeply about every part of us—including our mental and emotional well-being. As we bring our struggles to Him, He often provides support through His Word, His presence, and even through people and resources He places in our lives. Highlights 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: Be Honest with God about Your Mental Health By: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading: “Answer me quickly, Lord; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.” - Psalm 143:7-8, NIV At George Mason University’s Center for the Advancement of Well-Being, I work on university-wide well-being initiatives – including programs designed to break down the stigma of struggling with mental health. We believe that talking openly about mental health struggles can help all people strengthen their well-being. In Psalm 143:7-8, King David is completely honest about how much he’s struggling with his mental health. He prays about it without holding back, and he tells God that he trusts him to help. If you’re also struggling with your mental health, you might feel like you have to try to fix your mood before you can talk to God. You might think you need to present a polished prayer to God that makes it seem like you’re not really suffering much. But the Psalms can help you develop a deeper relationship with God by showing you how to communicate honestly with him. Many of the Psalms describe the reality of people suffering in this fallen world. In Psalm 143:7-8, David shows that it’s okay to not be okay. David starts his prayer with a desperate plea: “Answer me quickly, Lord; my spirit fails.” If you feel like your spirit is failing today, you’re in good company. Many people feel that way sometimes when going through challenging circumstances. Admitting that your mental health is struggling isn’t a sign of weak faith; it’s actually a sign of healthy faith, because it shows that you trust God enough to be honest with him and reach out for help. God already knows what you’re going through, and he’s strong enough to help you with whatever it is – burnout, anxiety, depression, or any other mental health concern. When you’re honest with God about the “pit” you feel you’re falling into, you can stop wasting energy trying to hide. Whether you’re overwhelmed by your responsibilities, worried about a problem you don’t know how to solve, or feeling lonely because of a broken relationship, God wants to help you. You can come to God just as you are. God wants the real you, not the “Instagram-worthy” version of you. Remember that God is the one who designed your mind and your emotions. Your loving Creator can help you with whatever you’re going through. As he struggles, David reaches for a lifeline by praying: “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love.” When you’re struggling mentally,...

Life has a way of pulling our attention in a hundred different directions. Between responsibilities, worries, and the constant noise of everyday life, it’s easy for our focus to drift. Often, it’s not outright rebellion that creates distance from God—it’s distraction. A slow fade. But Scripture gives us a clear and simple invitation: fix your eyes on Jesus. When we intentionally shift our focus back to Christ, something powerful happens. The weight of the world doesn’t necessarily disappear, but it begins to lose its grip. The things that once felt overwhelming start to shrink in the light of His presence. Jesus, who endured the cross and secured our hope, becomes the anchor that steadies our hearts. Refocusing isn’t complicated—it simply requires a willingness to pause, look up, and reconnect with the One who holds it all together. Highlights 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: Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus By Megan J. Conner Bible Reading: “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” - Hebrews 12:1-2 (NIV) How many of us know and love the famous hymn, Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus? There really is a sense of purity and weightiness to many of the hymns we sing. But this one strikes a particularly intimate chord, beckoning us to look up and out beyond our distractions, disappointments, and even our despair. Not only is it calling us to shift our perspective, but to fix our gaze on the face of our Lord. It is there that all of the cares of this world dim and fade in the light of His love and glory. This hymn truly is one of my absolute favorites. I actually wasn’t exposed to it until a bit later in life, but it was so influential that decades later, I still have a vivid memory of the first time I heard it. I was riding in the back of a car when Michael W. Smith first shared a beautiful rendition of these beloved lyrics. “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, Look full in His wonderful face, And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, In the light of His glory and grace.” There is so much in our world that clamors for our attention. Our challenges, our worries, our incessant need to be busy, and our constant pursuit of “happiness.” All of which depletes our faith, steals our peace, and leaves us feeling lost, anxious, and hopeless. This is the slippery slope that can so easily lead us astray. Often, our distance from the Lord is not due to intentional rebellion but rather to a slow fading of affection. As famously quoted by Corrie ten Boom, “If the devil can’t make you bad, he’ll make you busy.” True satisfaction can only be found in Him. Nothing else will ever satisfy. In preparation for sharing about this hymn in today’s devotional, I conducted a little research to learn more about its origin and authorship. The hymn was penned by Helen Lemmel in 1922. Her own words were inspired by the life and poetry of a female missionary named Lilias Trotter, who encouraged those around her to “turn your soul’s vision to Jesus, and look and look at Him… for ‘He is worthy’ to have all there is to be had in the heart that He has died to win.” Jesus was, is, and always will be the answer to our questions, the treasure to our pursuit of riches, and the fulfillment of our innermost desires. The God-shaped hole in each of our hearts will never be satisfied by the lesser things of this world. The struggle truly is real. The noise and allure of all that surrounds us will constantly bombard our hearts and minds. It will never...

It’s easy to measure our days by productivity—what we checked off, accomplished, or completed. But Scripture gently redirects our focus. Instead of organizing life around endless tasks, we’re called to live with intentionality, recognizing that our time is limited and deeply valuable. When we “number our days,” we begin to see life through an eternal lens, not just a daily agenda. Many of the things that consume our time won’t matter a year from now—let alone in eternity. What will matter is how we loved, served, and walked with God. Shifting from a task-driven mindset to a purpose-driven life doesn’t mean abandoning responsibility—it means putting first things first. As we slow down and invite God into our daily rhythms, we begin to align our priorities with His heart, finding peace in what truly counts. Highlights 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: Numbering Our Days By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading: “So teach us to number our days, That we may present to You a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12 NASB). Does your to-do list seem overwhelming at times? Whether you keep yours on paper, like I still do, and relish the joy of crossing each task off, or your list exists in the notes section of your phone or the inside of your mind, we all feel that burdening sense of all that we must do. I realize some of it is important. If you don’t grocery shop, what will you eat? If laundry isn’t done, what will you wear? If the project isn’t sectioned out in steps and worked on daily, when will it be completed? Yet what on that list, daily, will matter a year from now, 10 years from now, or in the scope of eternity? Somehow, somewhere, the almighty To-Do List rose up before us and called itself God. And we continue to bow down to it. Having been raised with a strong work ethic, I used to find it difficult to be “unproductive,” even when I was on vacation or feeling worn down, and my body was saying, “rest!” It used to be more difficult for me to slow down and not get things done than to muster up the motivation to do them. Yet the older I get, the more joy I am experiencing in putting aside the to-do list and prioritizing people over productivity. In Psalm 90:12, Moses asked God to help him realize his days are numbered so he could live wisely. In The Message translation, that verse reads, “Oh, teach us to live wisely. Teach us to live wisely and well.” Moses—a man whom Scripture says communed with God face to face—realized his need not to get caught up in meaningless tasks during the day, but to live wisely for the sake of eternity. If Moses prayed for that priority check, how much more should we? Intersecting Faith & Life: What if you and I were to number our days instead of our tasks? What if we were to make a list of what we wanted to do wisely and well each day (and before we leave this earth), rather than focus on all of the meaningless tasks that seem to be setting our schedules and ruling our days and minds? When you and I get to heaven one day, there will not be a reward for the amount of money we made or how efficient we were on our jobs while we lived on this earth. There will not be accolades for the number of followers we had on social media, or the number of hits on our website, or the number of clicks on our Instagram videos. There won’t be any kudos for having the loveliest seasonal decorations, or being the most organized member of the team, or accomplishing the most at the company. All that we tend to honor or strive for or prioritize here on this earth doesn’t mean much to God in the scope of eternity. In Micah 6:8, we are told what God honors: “He has told you, mortal one, what is...

Struggling with shame, sin, or fear of rejection? 1 John 1:9 reminds us that confession leads to forgiveness, healing, and freedom—inviting every believer to step out of hiding and back into God’s grace. Hiding often feels safer than being fully known—but spiritually, it keeps us stuck. Whether it’s shame from past wounds, fear of rejection, or ongoing struggles with sin, choosing silence and secrecy can quietly distance us from God and others. Yet Scripture offers a better way: honest confession that leads to restoration. God doesn’t call us to hide—He calls us to healing. Highlights 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: Dear Child of God, Come Out of Hiding By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, NKJV) A few months ago, my eyes were opened to the stark reality that I was struggling with an area of my past… …the pain of rejection. This continues to be a battle for me, yet I realize that healing from the pain of rejection is a partnership with the Lord and, most definitely, a process as we learn to surrender to God. Thankfully, I am not alone in this fight in healing from my past and old ways of thinking. One thing is for sure: the Lord fights for me, and the Holy Spirit guides me into all truth, illuminating and exposing the lies I was believing that are rooted in rejection. Rejection had overwhelmed so much of my life that I wasn’t being fully honest with people in my life. The lie I believed was that I would be rejected if my sin or wrongdoing was discovered. Therefore, I chose to either keep silent or tell a lie to keep my secret hidden so that I wouldn’t be a disappointment. That lifestyle was keeping me from being fully transparent and honest with my husband and, most importantly, with God. I believe this is why 1 John 1 reminds us of the importance of confessing our sin: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, NKJV). Intersecting Faith & Life: Hiding our sin causes us to hide from God, very similarly to Adam and Eve when the first sin entered the world- they felt ashamed, and shame made them feel rejected. Because of Jesus and the finished work of the cross, we are forever made righteous in our position as we stand before the Father and are forever forgiven, yet when we sin, it causes our fellowship with God to be hindered, and then we can very easily distance ourselves from Him and stray from His ways. God’s love toward me never changes when I sin, yet I may still experience consequences and correction for my disobedience. Repentance, as a believer, is for our benefit to keep fellowship with our Heavenly Father open and unhindered. Sin can often make our hearts grow callous, and we may become less sensitive to the conviction of the Holy Spirit. The enemy wants you either in pride, thinking you are better off doing life your own way, or in isolation, bound in a pit of depression, unable to receive love or give out love, feeling like no one loves you or cares about you, especially God. But God’s love is unconditional and perfect, and nothing can stop His pursuit of you. He wants us to be honest with Him so that we can see real transformation happen in our lives, as He conforms us into the image of His Son. Like I said above, positionally, in Christ, you stand before God forgiven and righteous, but experientially, sanctification is a process because our flesh is weak. Although as born-again believers, we continue to sin against God because we are constantly at war with our flesh...

Life has a way of pulling us into stress, fear, and overwhelm—but Scripture offers a better rhythm: resting in God as our refuge. While God is always present, learning to actively dwell in that presence takes intention. It’s in those moments—pausing, praying, and turning our attention back to Him—that we begin to experience His peace in a tangible way. Psalm 91 paints a powerful image of God as our shelter and covering. When we stay close to Him, we’re not just protected—we’re sustained. The weight of expectations, fear, and pressure begins to lift as we remember who He is: all-powerful, unchanging, and deeply committed to our good. Rest isn’t found in escaping life’s challenges, but in staying rooted in God through them. Highlights 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: Making God Our Safe Place By: Jennifer Slattery Bible Reading: Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. - Psalm 91:1 (NIV). How can we make God our refuge, shield, shelter, and safe place? Most of us probably recognize He’s with us always. As Psalm 139 proclaims, there’s no way we can flee His presence, no place we can go where He isn’t already there. And that’s good news, because it is in His presence that we receive strength, power, protection, and peace. While He’s always with us, it can take practice to become aware of and learn to rest and find shelter in His presence. I’m learning to pause when I feel anxious or overwhelmed to close my eyes, prayerfully connect with God, and receive comfort from His embrace. The more I do this, the easier this becomes. My hope is that I’ll become so skilled at emotionally regulating myself with the Lord that I won’t do or say things I regret when under stress or in fearful circumstances. We all tend to behave uncharacteristically when we feel threatened, sad, anxious, or depressed. But we have instant and constant access to the all-powerful God who surrounds us with His loving embrace. That’s the image I receive when I consider today’s verse. I picture my heavenly Father’s strong arms around me, acting like a protective barrier. This Scripture begins with an all-inclusive invitation. “Whoever dwells,” the psalmist says, reminding us that God longs for all of us—those with respectable, church-attending backgrounds and those who’ve spent their lives running from God and into sin—to dwell, linger, and remain in His shelter. The ancient Hebrews reading Psalm 91 would’ve immediately thought of how God led them through the wilderness with a cloud by day that hovered protectively above them, making His presence tangible and visible, guiding them every step of their journey, and shielding them from the sun’s intense rays. The Lord doesn’t change. He watches over, guides, and protects us as faithfully as He did the often-rebellious Jews so long ago. I’m often comforted when I consider the unfaithful attitudes and behaviors of people to whom God remained faithful because it reminds me of His free and inexhaustible gift of grace. As Psalm 103:10 states, He doesn’t treat us as our sins deserve, and I’m so grateful for that. He doesn’t hold grudges, make us earn His favor or protection, or withhold His goodness. We can trust that, in all He does, doesn’t do, and allows, He always has our best interests in mind. While He doesn’t condone or bless sin by any means, He does invite us all to come to Him, build an ever-deepening relationship with Him, and allow Him to comfort, heal, and strengthen us with His love. He is our shelter. As Psalm 27:5 states, “… He will hide me in the shelter of His sacred tent and set me high upon a rock” (NIV). Today’s verse...

Spiritual growth often begins the moment we step outside our comfort zone. Whether it’s a new opportunity, a challenging season, or an unknown path ahead, the tension between excitement and fear is real. Yet Scripture reminds us that we are never navigating these moments alone—God is already present in every place we’re called to go. Psalm 139 paints a powerful picture of God’s constant presence. No matter how far we go or how unfamiliar the path feels, His hand is steady, guiding and sustaining us. When we choose to trust Him and take that next step, even with uncertainty, our faith stretches, deepens, and becomes more resilient. Growth doesn’t happen in comfort—it happens in movement, in trust, and in surrender. Highlights 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: Go on an Adventure with God By: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading: “If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.” – Psalm 139:9-10, NIV What’s a new adventure you hope to experience this year? Is there a place you’re excited about traveling to visit, a new skill you’d like to learn, or a project or role you want to start at work or at church? No matter what kind of adventure it is, you probably feel a mix of both excitement and fear because of all the uncertainty involved. The fear may be causing you to hesitate, but don’t let fear take over. If you’ve prayed for God’s guidance to make the best decisions, and you sense God leading you to go on that adventure, you can move forward with confidence even while still feeling afraid. Psalm 139:9-10 describes why you can be confident: God will go with you anytime and anywhere! There’s no time of day or night when God won’t be with you. There’s no place you can go where God won’t be with you. As these verses point out, even if you leave as soon as the dawn of a new day or go somewhere far away like overseas, you’ll still be in God’s hands. Adventures are vital for your spiritual growth. Any trip or class you want to take, and any professional or volunteer opportunity to serve in new ways, is worth praying about and planning for if God leads you to move forward. Staying in your comfort zone won’t help you grow closer to God, but adventures will! When you step into an adventure, you realize that you can’t do it alone, which motivates you to look for God’s presence and connect with him. An adventure stretches your faith so it can become more resilient. If you travel somewhere new, you can see the vastness of the world God created and discover more about how unlimited God’s love and power are. If you take on a new project at work, you can discover talents God tucked away inside you that never would have surfaced if you hadn’t worked on that project. If you serve people in a new way at church, you can experience the blessings of experiencing God’s love flow through your life in fresh ways. Whenever you start a new adventure – whenever you “rise on the wings of the dawn” – you can count on God to show up on time to meet you. Wherever “the far side of the sea” is for you, you don’t have to worry about what might happen there, because God will go there with you. An adventure may lead you to a new schedule or take you to a new place on a map, but God doesn’t just give you a schedule and a map and then leave you alone to figure it out. These verses promise that God’s hand will “hold you fast.” God isn’t watching you from a distance. God is walking beside you as your personal guide, no matter when and where you go. So, go on an adventure with God sometime soon! If you take a risk and feel like an impostor,...

Resurrection hope, new life after loss, and God’s redemptive work are beautifully revealed in The Garden after the Grave. Rooted in John 20:11, this devotional shows how God brings life out of what feels buried, reminding us that the empty tomb is not the end—but the beginning. Mary came to the garden expecting death, not a miracle. Grief clouded her vision, making it impossible to recognize that Jesus was standing right in front of her. Yet in a deeply personal moment, everything changed when Jesus called her by name. This powerful scene mirrors our own lives—how often we stand in places that feel empty, unaware that God is already at work. Just as the first garden in Eden represented what was lost, this garden after the resurrection reveals what is being restored. God is still bringing life where we only see loss, growing something new beneath the surface even when all seems silent. Highlights 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 Garden after the Grave By: Sarah Frazer Bible Reading: “But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb.” - John 20:11 Can you see her? There is a woman broken by death, unable to keep the tears inside. It was a heartbreaking scene. For those of us who know the story, it is tempting to step into the story and just reassure Mary that Jesus had already risen. But let’s remember she did not know this. She has come to this garden looking for death. It says that she looked inside the tomb, expecting a body, not a miracle. Although Mary stood in a garden, she did not expect life. Resurrection morning begins in a Garden, and so do the first few chapters of the Bible. “And the Lord God planted a garden in Eden, in the east, and there he put the man whom he had formed.” - Genesis 2:8 (ESV) As the story of Easter begins, we find Mary at a tomb in a garden. Do we expect to find God here? Mary did not. She was searching, weeping, and only able to see the darkness of death. She sees an empty tomb and two angels. The weeping does not end at the sight of the heavenly beings. Instead, sorrow wraps itself around her and clouds her view. She doesn’t see the empty tomb as hopeful, but mournful. Immediately, Mary turns. Her grief doesn’t allow her to see the truth about the garden, the empty tomb, and the Man standing in front of her. John 20:14 says, “She turned around and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus.” The beautiful part of this story is that Mary mistook Jesus for the Gardner. Little did she know, He was and is the great Gardener. Mary stood in the garden, blinded by tears and unable to see that resurrection was coming. In the winter, our gardens lie dead, devoid of color and life. As we winter through the cold months, the ground beneath is not dead at all, but waiting. Just like Mary, we might need to remember that sometimes we stand in the place of new life, even if we are surrounded by loss. Reading about this garden Mary stood in reminds me of the first garden. God created life in a garden, but sin entered there, and humanity was sent out. The Garden of Eden is now a symbol of what was lost: God’s presence, a sense of wholeness, and unbroken fellowship. All of these things lost in the first garden were soon to be recovered in this second garden. In a moment, Mary’s tears turn to wonderment. “Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’ She turned and said to him in Aramaic, ‘Rabboni! (which means Teacher).’” - John 20:16-17 Jesus meets Mary not in a spectacle of power and glory but in intimacy, reminding her of the relationship. When Jesus says Mary’s name, she suddenly recognizes him. It is in this moment that new...

The true meaning of Easter centers on the resurrection of Jesus Christ, offering hope, salvation, and victory over death. Rediscovering the Real Meaning of Easter invites us to move beyond cultural traditions and refocus on the life-changing truth of Matthew 28:6—He is risen. For many, Easter can easily become about traditions like candy, egg hunts, and the Easter Bunny. While those things aren’t inherently wrong, they can quietly shift our attention away from what matters most. When we truly understand the resurrection, everything changes. Easter becomes more than a holiday—it becomes a celebration of grace, redemption, and new life found in Christ. This renewed perspective not only deepens our personal faith but also creates opportunities to share the Gospel with others in a meaningful, authentic way. Highlights 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: Rediscovering the Real Meaning of Easter By Vivian Bricker Bible Reading: “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.” - Matthew 28:6 Easter is a wonderful time to reflect on the beauty and goodness of Christ. When I was growing up, however, I didn’t understand Easter at all. I mainly associated it with the Easter Bunny and candy. I knew nothing about Jesus Christ or His death on the cross. Although my mom was a Christian, I don’t remember fully absorbing any teachings about Easter when I was a child or a teenager. Perhaps those lessons simply went over my head, but I genuinely don’t recall learning about Jesus’ sacrifice. Everything changed after I became a Christian during my first year of college. That was when I began to understand the true purpose of Easter and realized what a beautiful and meaningful celebration it is. The first Easter I celebrated as a follower of the Lord was filled with worship. My sister and I even changed some of our family traditions to make them more focused on Jesus. My childhood fascination with the Easter Bunny faded, replaced by a deeper appreciation for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. One year, we even made a cross decorated with flowers and placed it on our front door as a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and victory. Easter has changed a lot for me, but in the best way possible. Once I truly understood the meaning of Easter, I couldn’t believe I had celebrated the holiday for so long without recognizing its real purpose. Easter is about Jesus—not the Easter Bunny, egg hunts, or candy. While those traditions are not wrong in themselves, they can easily distract from the holiday's true meaning. When commercialism becomes the focus, it takes Jesus out of Easter and turns the celebration into something it was never meant to be. As followers of Christ, Easter is also a meaningful opportunity to share the Gospel with others. Many people have heard the Gospel, yet its meaning hasn’t fully reached their hearts. This can be true for both children and adults. Because of this, we should look for opportunities to share the message of Jesus—even with people who may already be familiar with it. Sometimes hearing the truth again allows it to take root more deeply. When sharing the Gospel, speak in a personal, sincere way. This helps others truly hear and understand what you are saying. Sharing your testimony can also be powerful before or after explaining the Gospel. Trust the Holy Spirit to work in each person’s heart, and don’t become discouraged if someone doesn’t accept Christ immediately. For many of us, faith was a journey that took time before we chose to fully place our trust in Jesus. Intersecting Faith & Life: At the tomb of the risen Lord, an angel declared, “He is not...

Waiting on God, trusting His timing, and holding onto hope in suffering are at the heart of When the Miracle Hasn’t Come Yet. Rooted in Romans 8:24–25 and the story of Lazarus in John 11, this devotional explores how God’s love remains constant—even when answers feel delayed. In seasons of pain, silence, or unanswered prayers, it’s easy to question where God is. Yet Scripture shows us that delay is not the absence of love. Jesus loved Mary, Martha, and Lazarus deeply—and still waited. That tension is where faith grows. Biblical hope isn’t pretending everything is fine; it’s trusting that God is still working when we can’t yet see the outcome. Even in the waiting, Jesus is still our resurrection and our life. The miracle may not have come yet—but His presence is already with us. Highlights Full Transcript Below: When the Miracle Hasn’t Come Yet By: Sarah Frazer Bible Reading: “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” - Romans 8:24-25 If God loves me why am I suffering? I asked this question many years ago while sitting awake in bed at 2 AM. I was battling an intense time of depression and anxiety. Sleep would not come, even after begging God for relief. I had gotten so tired that I couldn’t rest. Tears rolled down my cheek. As I walked through the valley of depression, I began to search out why God would delay my healing. I wrestled with the question of how God could be loving but also allow suffering as well. Our passage for today speaks into this tension. “Now a man named Lazarus was sick… Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So… he stayed where he was two more days.” - John 11:5-6 Notice that it says Jesus loved them! It is evident in other scriptures that Jesus had a close relationship with all three siblings. Yet, when they needed him the most, Jesus delayed. If He loved them, why didn’t He hurry to heal Lazarus? For two days, Jesus didn’t move. So many of us feel like we are living in that “two-day delay.” We are loved, but we are still waiting. One night, while sitting in my bed, unable to fall asleep, I remember finally being honest with God. I told him that I was so depressed and asked Him why He didn’t take this pain away. Mary and Martha, in John 11, were also honest with Jesus. “‘Lord,’ Martha said to Jesus, ‘if you had been here, my brother would not have died.’” - John 11:21 There is belief here. She believed Jesus could have helped, but she also expressed her grief. How many of us shy away from both things when we are waiting for relief from our own suffering? Faith in God does not mean we can’t be disappointed. Jesus did not chide her for her honesty. Believing God’s promises and His power does not silence our sorrow. Although Jesus does resurrect Lazarus, Martha didn’t know this. You and I know that one day our new bodies will not suffer, and all tears will be wiped away. But that doesn’t mean we don’t live in unresolved circumstances now. “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” - Romans 8:24-25 Biblical hope is not wishful thinking or denial. Mary and Martha did not deny the pain, nor did they have a vague belief in Jesus. Martha stood in her grief before she saw glory. Many of us do that too. Paul, in the book of Romans, encourages us to wait for what we cannot see and hope will come. Resurrection means that death does not win. Delay does not cancel love, and the grave does not get the final word. Often, we believe that God’s love means we will have immediate answers or instant healing. Instead, we find that God’s timeline and ours don’t always match. Jesus was the resurrection and the life before Lazarus walked out of the tomb. He is the resurrection for us, even if tears fall. “I am the...

Spiritual surrender, trusting God’s timing, and releasing control take center stage in Hannah’s story in 1 Samuel 1–2. The Burial Before the Breakthrough reveals how God often does His deepest work in our hearts before He changes our circumstances. Hannah’s journey through infertility, longing, and public shame paints a powerful picture of what it means to wrestle with unmet desires. Yet instead of turning away, she brought her pain directly to God—honestly, persistently, and with surrender. Her breakthrough didn’t begin with the birth of Samuel, but with a transformed heart that desired God’s will above her own. This story reminds us that sometimes God allows seasons of waiting not to withhold from us, but to reshape us, deepen our dependence on Him, and prepare us for something greater than we imagined. Highlights This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: The Burial before the Breakthrough By Hannah Benson Bible Reading: “And Hannah prayed and said, “My heart exults in the Lord; my horn is exalted in the Lord. My mouth derides my enemies, because I rejoice in your salvation. “There is none holy like the Lord: for there is none besides you; there is no rock like our God. Talk no more so very proudly, let not arrogance come from your mouth; for the Lord is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed. The bows of the mighty are broken, but the feeble bind on strength. Those who were full have hired themselves out for bread, but those who were hungry have ceased to hunger. The barren has borne seven, but she who has many children is forlorn.” - 1 Samuel 2:1-5 (ESV) I’ve often wondered why I love Hannah’s story. Perhaps it’s because we share the same name, or because the deep ache burning within her is something we can all relate to. Even if we cannot relate to the infertility of her womb, surely, we can relate to the infertility of her heart. Hannah deeply desired a child, but for years, she wrestled with barrenness. In those days, it was a cultural norm: a woman’s worth was measured by her children. Don’t get me wrong. “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward” (Psalm 127:3 ESV). ALL children are precious gifts from God above and meant to be treasured, cherished, and loved! For Hannah, not only did she desire to be a mother, but infertility was a societal weight. Because she couldn’t bear a child, her husband’s line would die with her. Consequently, Elkanah was bound by duty to take a second wife, Peninnah, turning Hannah’s grief into public shame. Imagine the immense sadness that increased with each day as Hannah was reminded of what she didn’t have. While once she may have been reminded anytime she visited an ever-growing family, now the patter of little feet haunted her in her home. Her husband was a proud father, but not of her child. Can we imagine? To make matters worse, she received no sympathy from Peninnah. Her husband’s second wife “used to provoke her grievously to irritate her, because the LORD had closed her womb” (1 Samuel 1:6 ESV). Undoubtedly, Hannah would’ve asked God, “Why”? She may’ve wondered if God had a plan. Why wouldn’t He bless her with a child? We know Elkanah loved Hannah very much. When he and his household went up to worship the LORD and to offer sacrifices, he gave portions to Peninnah and all her sons and daughters. But as is written in 1 Samuel 1:5 (ESV), “But to Hannah he gave a...

Facing fear, surrender, and trust in God’s plan takes center stage in the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus models honest prayer and unwavering obedience. The Night Before the Cross explores how Jesus’ surrender in Matthew 26:36–39 invites us to trust God—even when the path ahead feels overwhelming. On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus experienced deep sorrow and anguish, fully aware of the suffering He would endure. Yet in that moment, He didn’t hide His emotions—He brought them honestly before the Father. His prayer reveals a powerful tension: a desire for relief paired with complete trust in God’s will. This moment reminds us that faith isn’t the absence of struggle—it’s choosing trust in the middle of it. Because of Jesus’ surrender, we are invited to bring our hardest emotions to God while still believing in His greater plan. Highlights This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: The Night Before the Cross By: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading: “Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, ‘Sit here while I go over there and pray.’ He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them, ‘My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.’ Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, ‘My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” – Matthew 26:36-39, NIV When I visited Israel and Palestine on a pilgrimage trip, I was moved to tears by the ancient olive trees in the Garden of Gethsemane. Since olive trees regenerate, they can live for many generations. Some of those trees with the wide, twisted branches were descendants of the trees that were there when Jesus prayed in the garden the night before going to the cross. I imagined Jesus in agony there, knowing he would be crucified the next day and have to take the burden of all sin from his creation onto himself. No one had ever had such a heavy burden to carry in this fallen and broken world. Jesus asked Peter, James, and John to “stay here and keep watch with me.” He simply wanted the comfort of having his friends nearby. Jesus shows us that needing other people is an important part of being human. Even though his friends eventually let him down and fell asleep, the human part of Jesus reached out for their support. The divine part of Jesus knew that people are meant to encourage one another. Then, Jesus prayed: “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me.” He didn’t want to go through the excruciating physical pain of being crucified, but even more than that, he didn’t want the spiritual weight of carrying the world’s mistakes. He was completely honest with God when he asked if there was a way out. This is so encouraging for us today! It shows us we can tell God exactly how we feel, even when we’re dealing with difficult emotions. We don’t have to pretend to be happy when we’re actually sad, or to be peaceful when we’re actually terrified. God can handle our honest prayers about our most challenging feelings. But then, the story changes. After asking God the Father to change the plan if possible, Jesus added those famous words: “Yet not as I will, but as you will.” Jesus prayed with total trust. He knew that God’s will was best. Jesus trusted God’s plan more than he trusted...

Experiencing the hope of Easter doesn’t have to be limited to one Sunday a year. Psalm 112:4 reminds us that light breaks through darkness for those who walk with God—and that truth can shape how we begin every single day. Just as the sunrise brings warmth, clarity, and renewed energy, a Christ-centered morning can ground our hearts in peace and purpose. This devotional reframes the idea of a “sunrise service” as a daily rhythm rather than a yearly event. Even in busy, chaotic, or exhausting seasons of life, we are invited to intentionally create space for God each morning. When we choose to start our day focused on Him, we position our hearts to experience His presence, reflect His character, and carry His hope into everything we do. Highlights This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: How to Have a Sunrise Service Every Sunday Morning By: Peyton Garland Bible Reading: “Light shines in the darkness for the godly. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous.” - Psalm 112:4 (NLT) My mood is greatly impacted by the weather, much to my chagrin. In Eastern Tennessee, with the Appalachians spanning my backyard, we see bouts of heavy rain in the winter. Of course, for all our farmers, this is quite the blessing, and it certainly benefits our neighbors’ cattle. But for me, it’s just week after week of mental gloominess (and feeling stuck inside with a toddler who would nap much better if he could run and play and soak up Vitamin D). Easter arrives when the weather is often playing tug-of-war between winter and spring, unsure which will take precedence for the holiday. Thus, it’s hard to know if your Easter dress should actually be a dress, or if a pair of pants will make life much warmer and more comfortable. Regardless of Easter’s final forecast, it’s only normal for us to crave the light and warmth of the sun. Nature makes this clear: the sun not only affects the neurotransmitters that regulate our mood but also our heart rate. Light and warmth stabilize us from the inside out, and is this not the perfect physiological representation of an Easter sunrise service? It’s mankind’s eager anticipation for the first rays of light that whisper, “You’ll see a bit clearer in just a moment. Better things are coming. Hope is here.” Easter, regardless of the day’s weather report, is our blessed hope, the spiritual truth that we can celebrate year-round to keep us tethered to our faith. It’s available for all the highs and lows, all the storms, and the uncontrollable chaos that undoubtedly rears an ugly head in this fallen world. And if we are intentional, spiritually desperate enough, we can experience this sunrise service filled with hope and joy each day of our lives. I’m certainly no expert in accessing this beautiful, glorious gift each morning, especially eight months pregnant with a toddler who doesn’t sleep through the night. I often wake up starving, grumbly, and in desperate need of a chiropractor. But even when the mornings start hectic or heavy, we have a choice: We can use our desperation for God’s goodness to force five minutes of quiet for Him to settle our hearts and homes, or we can surrender to the never-ending demands of a loud, noisy world that cares little about how stable our souls are once we’ve clocked out for the day and gone home. God gives good gifts to His children, most notably salvation through His Son’s death and resurrection, but the choice to...

Suffering is one of the hardest realities of the Christian life, yet James 1:12 reveals a powerful truth: there is blessing on the other side of perseverance. Trials are not meaningless interruptions—they are often the very tools God uses to shape our faith, deepen our dependence on Him, and draw us closer to His heart. This devotional reframes suffering through a biblical lens, reminding us that while pain is real, it is never wasted. Even when life feels overwhelming or unfair, God remains sovereign and present. Instead of placing our hope in temporary outcomes, we are called to anchor ourselves in eternity—trusting that God is working through every trial for His glory and our ultimate good. Highlights Resources Mentioned Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Biblical humility and servant leadership are beautifully displayed in Philippians 2:5-8, where Jesus models a radically different view of greatness—one rooted in love, sacrifice, and selflessness. Rather than clinging to His divine status, Jesus chose to humble Himself, taking on the role of a servant and ultimately giving His life on the cross. This passage challenges the way we view power, status, and what it truly means to love others. Through a personal story and powerful reflection, this devotional reminds us that the lowest places—often the ones we avoid—can become the greatest opportunities to demonstrate Christlike love. When we shift our mindset from self-importance to selfless service, we begin to reflect the heart of Jesus in our everyday relationships. True love isn’t about convenience—it’s about willingness to serve, even when it costs us something. Highlights This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: When Love Took the Lowest Place By: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading: “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death – even death on a cross!” – Philippians 2:5-8, NIV When I was in college, I took a job at a fast food restaurant to supplement the income from my journalism internship because I wanted extra money for a trip. I quit after only 3 weeks – as soon as I earned the amount I needed for the trip – because I felt like the job was beneath me. But reflecting on it now, I can see how that humbling experience was valuable. As you can imagine, cleaning a public restroom in a fast-food restaurant was never pleasant. But years later, when God led me to clean a restroom for a family member battling cancer, I was grateful I learned that sometimes the lowest tasks are connected to the highest ways of showing love. Sometimes we think that if we have power or status, we should use it to make our lives easier. We may refuse to do lowly jobs at work or at home because we have a higher job position than others on our team, or a higher status in our family than others. But Philippians 2:5-8 shows us a picture of Jesus that turns our ideas of greatness upside down. Jesus had the highest power and status possible – he was equal with God. Yet, Jesus didn’t use that power and status for himself. Instead, he “made himself nothing.” In some translations, it says he “emptied himself.” Jesus poured out his rights and his comfort so that he could fill our greatest need. When Jesus came from heaven to earth, he went from being in a perfect environment where he had everything he could ever want to dealing with human needs in a fallen world, where he would experience the full range of suffering we go through here. Jesus made that choice because of his love for his creation – including us. Love motivated Jesus to come to earth to pay for humanity’s sins himself, so we could connect with a holy God and be saved. When Jesus washed his disciples’ feet, he was the highest person in the room, yet he chose the lowest task. Why did Jesus, the King of Kings, become a servant? It was because he saw us. Jesus saw that we were broken, lost, and separated from God...

This devotional highlights the importance of intentional, Christ-centered community—not perfect people, but faithful ones who pursue Jesus together. Even when relationships feel messy or uncomfortable, God uses them to strengthen our faith, bring healing, and encourage us in ways we can’t experience on our own. If you’re in a season without a church community, this is an invitation to reflect, rebuild, and take one step toward the relationships God has prepared for you. Highlights This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: When You Don't Have a Church Community This Easter By: Peyton Garland Bible Reading: “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24-25 (NLT) In our first five years of marriage, my husband and I moved six times. Jobs and dreams pulled us all over the place, back and forth across the country. But while this wild newlywed season was beautiful, it left little time for us to invest in a church community. Many believers are left without a church community this Easter, whether caused by time and location constraints, old church wounds, or a tried but failed attempt to find “their” people. Relationships can be complicated, awkward, and intimidating to navigate, especially for Christian adults who are encouraged to develop vulnerability and share their faults and fears with others. Church community—the healthy kind—requires an unguarded trust in others, a release of self-preservation and appearances, but it’s in this uncomfortable place that our pride dies and our souls find the encouragement to continue in the faith when the days are dark and lonely. Granted, I understand the skepticism of opening up to others in the church, especially as someone who once had a bitter taste in her mouth for any assembly that remotely resembled the unhealthy church I grew up in. However, on the other side of my church hurt, after lots of therapy and answered prayers as my husband and I settled into a church community to raise our sons, I can say, wholeheartedly, that you need a church community. You don’t need “your” people. You need Jesus people who messily, openly, sacrificially love Him. In finding those believers—and in becoming one of them—you find a community you can lean on in all seasons, even when the spiritual high of holidays like Easter and Christmas fades. My church has a saying, “You don’t stumble upon great Christian community; you create it.” So no matter how many fair-weather churchgoers come and go in this religious Easter season, no matter your past hurt or the present inconveniences that make community easy to avoid, I challenge you to invest your heart and faith in others. Jesus’ earthly ministry was short, only three years, but even He recognized the need for godly friendships and fellowship with others, calling twelve men to quite literally travel and live with Him. If Jesus recognized the need for a Christian community, who are we to disregard His example in this resurrection season centered on life, love, and sacrifice for others? Intersecting Faith & Life: When my husband and I met, we were both Christians, but both of us had been deeply, deeply wounded by the church. Legalism kept me tethered to weekly attendance, all out of fear, but my...