The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

In this moving devotional, Angela Anderson shares a real-life story of watching a woman struggle in deep waters—until she surrendered and was rescued. Through this gripping analogy, Angela unpacks the meaning of "Blessed are the poor in spirit" (Matthew 5:3) and how spiritual surrender opens the door to God’s kingdom. When we recognize our deep need for God's grace, we stop striving and allow Him to rescue us. This devotional is a reminder that salvation isn’t about striving harder—it’s about admitting we can’t do it on our own. When we surrender, we experience the richness of God's love, peace, and hope. ✨ Highlights What it truly means to be "poor in spirit" Why surrender—not self-reliance—is the key to spiritual rescue A powerful real-life metaphor for how God saves us when we stop fighting Encouragement for those who feel like they’re drowning in life’s circumstances The immediate promise of kingdom living for those who fully depend on God 💬 Join the Conversation Have you had a moment when surrendering to God brought breakthrough? We’d love to hear your story. Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #PoorInSpiritRichInFaith to share how God met you when you let go. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Let the Poor Say I Am Rich By Angela Anderson Bible Reading: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3 (ESV) I stood there in awe with the rest of the crowd. I wanted to scream for help, but I was speechless. I could not believe what I was witnessing, and I was terrified at the thought of a tragic outcome. There was a woman drowning in the middle of the ocean, and no one was coming to her rescue. She accidentally fell off the pier and she was too far out for even an experienced swimmer to reach her. Her arms were flailing, water was splashing, her head was bobbing up and down, and the crowd just stood there watching it happen. There was a lifeguard nearby, and he was also a silent bystander. I was perplexed. I thought it was the responsibility of the lifeguard to save people from drowning. Why wasn’t this lifeguard jumping in the water to save this woman? A few more minutes went by. It felt like everything was happening in slow motion. I saw the woman begin to get tired. Her arms were no longer moving wildly in the air and the water around her seemed to calm down. Then the worst possible scenario occurred. The woman went under. The crowd gasped in unison. Immediately, the lifeguard dove into the water and within seconds he appeared with the woman in his arms. He swam back to the pier while pulling the woman who was serenely floating alongside the lifeguard. Once they reached the bottom of the pier, they were pulled to safety by a team of rescuers who had just arrived on the scene. Occasionally, I think about that incident and my mind goes back to the moment when the lifeguard saw the woman drowning, but he did not instantly act. It was later explained to me that the lifeguard was waiting for the woman to stop struggling in the water. If the lifeguard jumped in to save the woman while she was still fighting for her life, he might have been pulled down in the chaos, and both may have drowned. The lifeguard could not force or coerce the woman to be saved. Instead, the lifeguard had to wait until the woman surrendered and allowed herself to be saved. It is the same way with God and His continuous desire to save us. The verse for today found in Matthew 5:3 indicates that the poor in spirit will inherit the kingdom of heaven. What does it mean to be poor in spirit? The word poor in this context does not refer to the lack of material wealth. On the contrary, to be poor in spirit is to recognize your spiritual poverty and your deep need to be saved. There is an awareness that salvation is not something that can be earned. There is an understanding...

Is singleness a gift or a flaw to be fixed? In this heartfelt devotional, Vivian Bricker invites us to rethink cultural and even church-based assumptions about being single. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 7:7 and Colossians 2:10, she reminds us that single Christians are not lacking—they are complete in Christ. Whether by choice, circumstance, or calling, singleness offers a unique opportunity to deepen our devotion to God and grow spiritually without distraction. Vivian speaks candidly from personal experience, addressing the pain, pressure, and purpose of singleness in a culture that often misunderstands it. If you’ve ever felt overlooked or “less than” because of your relationship status, this reflection will affirm your value and remind you that you are fully known and fully loved. Highlights (What You’ll Learn) Why singleness is not a flaw—but a God-given gift (1 Corinthians 7:7) The emotional challenges of being a single Christian in a relationship-centered world How Colossians 2:10 affirms that we are already complete through Christ Common misconceptions about single believers—and why they need to change Encouragement to embrace this season (or life calling) with purpose, dignity, and joy 💬 Join the Conversation Have you struggled to see singleness as a gift? Or have you found freedom and growth in this season of life? Share your thoughts by tagging @LifeAudioNetwork and using #SingleAndSecure to encourage others walking a similar path. Let’s start a real conversation about what it means to be whole, chosen, and complete in Christ—no matter our relationship status. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Acceptance for the Single Christian By Vivian Bricker “I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that” (1 Corinthians 7:7). As a single Christian, I have often been ridiculed. Many Christians view me as something that needs to be “fixed.” What these individuals don’t know is that singleness does not mean you are broken or lacking in any way. Through faith in Jesus, we have been brought to fullness (Colossians 2:10). This means we are not lacking anything in our lives. Since we are given fullness in Christ, there is no reason to be ashamed as a single Christian. It is true that single life can get lonely, and we often feel a lack of love, but it does not mean we are not complete. Many people stay single for various reasons. Some simply choose to stay single in order to be devoted to the Lord, others have bad experiences with dating, and others have never been pursued by someone. It is best not to look down on singles or to make any comments on their singleness because you don’t know why a person is single. People who are single have different feelings concerning singleness. For some, it might be painful; for others, it is a sense of Christian growth and grace. In either case, Christian singles need to be respected and treated equally with other believers. There have been too many occasions where I have been looked down upon because I am a single Christian. These individuals think that if a person is single, they are immature or incomplete. As mentioned, single Christians are complete because we know Jesus and have been given fullness in Him. All Christians, regardless of their relationship status, are worthy, valued, and enough. To say otherwise would be to call Jesus’ love and grace insufficient. As it is, Jesus’ love and grace are more than sufficient, and we are all complete in Him. Intersecting Faith & Life: Rather than believing lies about singles, it is time to listen to what God says in His Word. While marriage is a beautiful blessing and a gift, singleness is also a gift (1 Corinthians 7:1-40). This is what Paul is saying when he makes the statement, “I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of...

What do we do when we’re walking through spiritual wilderness—those dry, difficult seasons that test our faith and strip us of comfort? In this moving devotional, Megan J. Conner invites us to consider what it means to build altars in the wilderness—not as monuments to our victories, but as places of sacrifice, surrender, and transformation. Drawing from Genesis 22 and the powerful story of Abraham and Isaac, this episode explores the sacred difference between memorials and altars, and how God uses wilderness moments to draw us deeper into trust, humility, and full dependence on Him. If you’re feeling lost, weary, or stretched beyond your limits, this is a tender reminder that God meets us in the wilderness, and often calls us to lay down what’s most precious so that new life can rise. Highlights (What You’ll Learn) The distinction between biblical monuments and altars, and why it matters for your faith What Abraham’s altar moment teaches us about deep surrender and costly obedience How spiritual “wilderness” seasons are often invitations to intimacy and transformation Why humility and sacrifice are central themes of the Christian journey Encouragement that what you lay down in obedience, God often raises up in new life 💬 Join the Conversation What has God asked you to surrender in a season of wilderness? How has He met you in that place? Tag @LifeAudioNetwork with #AltarInMyWilderness and share a moment when laying something down led to growth, renewal, or unexpected blessing. Your story may be the encouragement someone else needs today. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Altars in the Wilderness By Megan J. Conner The phrase “altars in the wilderness” has become somewhat of a Christian catchphrase that has gained popularity over the last several years. The expression sounds deep, compelling, romantic, even. It alludes to a sense of profound destiny, as if connected to some measure of achievement or victory. While marker stones were often set up in the Old Testament to memorialize an act of God’s deliverance or miraculous provision during wilderness wanderings, there is a significant difference between a monument and an altar. Throughout the Old Testament, we see monuments resurrected through marker stones. Similar to our modern-day statues, granite walls, or marble towers, these memorials were built as a lasting reminder of God’s triumph over an obstacle or enemy, and His divine deliverance of His people. We see examples of this in Joshua chapter four when the twelve tribes stack stones to memorialize the crossing of the Jordan river, and again in 1 Samuel chapter seven when God delivers the Israelites from the Philistines and Samuel erects a memorial called “ebenezer,” meaning stone of help. In both of these references, God miraculously demonstrated love in action as He cared for those who belonged to Him. While faith was required to follow the Lord in each of these scenarios, it was God who was responsible for the work, not man. How different in comparison when we look at the term altar. Again, the word stirs in us visions of majesty and the divine, but an altar at its core is not a place of glory, but of humility. The word altar, when used as a noun in Hebrew, means “place of sacrifice,” and is derived from a verb meaning “to slaughter, to offer, or to sacrifice.” There is no grandeur here; rather, there is messy, raw surrender. A total and complete resignation of one’s self. One of the most famous biblical examples of this can be found in the story of Abraham and his son Isaac. Abraham waited decades for his promised son, Isaac. Abraham was assured he would have descendants as numerous as the stars. Yet, God calls Abraham to sacrifice his only son upon the altar of the Lord. Abraham did not fully understand the outcome of this command, but his assurance in the Lord was...

When life unravels—through loss, illness, or uncertainty—can we really believe that God works all things together for our good? In this honest and hope-filled devotional, Lynette Kittle wrestles with Romans 8:28 and what it means to trust God when life doesn’t make sense. From unexpected hospital visits to life-threatening moments turned miraculous, this episode reminds listeners that God’s plans are always good, even when our circumstances aren’t. Whether you're facing job loss, grief, or simply feeling crushed under life’s weight, this devotional encourages you to cling to God’s promises and believe that He’s working behind the scenes for your good and His glory. Highlights (What You’ll Learn) What it really means to believe Romans 8:28 in the middle of suffering Why God’s goodness isn’t limited by our understanding of “good” A real-life story of how an unexpected illness led to a life-saving intervention Encouragement to shift from fear and worry to trust and peace How to lean into God’s promises during personal trials and heartache 💬 Join the Conversation Have you ever seen God bring good from something painful or confusing? We’d love to hear your story. Tag @LifeAudioNetwork with #GodWorksItOut and share a moment when God showed up unexpectedly in a hard season—you might just encourage someone else today. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: When Tough Times Come: Believe God By Lynette Kittle “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose”—Romans 8:28 It’s easy to say, but when it comes down to it, do we really believe God works all things together for our good, including job losses, broken relationships, natural disasters, accidents, car and appliance breakdowns, bumps, bruises, sicknesses, and more? To think God works horrible and awful things for our good is hard for us to digest and comprehend. It doesn’t make sense to us, or seem possible, and seems to go against the loving, sacrificial God we know. Yet, lately, doesn’t it seem like the Lord is nudging us to take Him at His word and truly believe that He really will work all things together for our good? Remarkably, what we’ll find when we choose to believe His promise, is freedom and relief from fear, worry, regret, and so much more. For most of us, it seems we know the Scripture verse and want to believe it when hard things happen, yet it’s difficult for us to grasp and hold onto it during challenging times, where we’re experiencing loss and pain, and it’s easy for us to fall into fear and worry about how we are going to get through it and what might be coming next. As well, we deal with the pain and grief that accompanies situations, causing many of us, to feel defeated, without hope, vulnerable, and helpless to fix our situations. Even during major events, including natural disaster, loss of loved ones, job lay-offs, and more, we can experience the peace that comes with the Holy Spirit, reminding us of God’s promise to work it for our good, even the things that aren’t at all good in themselves. High Fever Leads to Lifesaving Care Recently, a close friend visited the hospital emergency room with a very high fever of unknown origin. Unable to pinpoint its cause, the physician admitted her to the hospital. Two days later, she passed out, nearly going into a dangerous cardiac arrest with what’s termed “the Widow-maker,” because of its high mortality rate. Had she not been admitted to the hospital, but at home or out and about at the time, the blockage of the largest artery to her heart would most likely have taken her life that day. Yet, rather, God had her right where she needed to be to receive immediate lifesaving care. Although the high fever wasn’t good, how God worked it for her good was good. God’s Plans for Us Are Good As...

What does divine protection really look like? In this moving devotional, Alexis A. Goring reflects on Psalm 121:7 and explores how God, like a loving parent, shields us from dangers—both seen and unseen. Using relatable stories and Scripture, she reminds us that God's boundaries are not restrictions, but rescue. If you’ve ever struggled with trusting God’s direction or wondered why certain paths are blocked, this episode will reassure you of His loving guidance and constant care. Highlights (What You’ll Learn) Why trusting God’s wisdom protects us from spiritual harm (Proverbs 14:12, Isaiah 46:10) How God acts as our ultimate protector—even when we ignore His warnings (Psalm 91, 1 Corinthians 10:13) What it means to follow a “Good Good Father” who disciplines out of love (Hebrews 12:6) The difference between spiritual restrictions and divine rescue Practical encouragement to seek God’s guidance before making life decisions (Philippians 4:7, Psalm 139:16) 💬 Join the Conversation Has there been a time when God protected you—even when you didn’t realize it? Share your story or your favorite “God protected me” verse by tagging @LifeAudioNetwork with #HeavenlyProtector. Let’s celebrate the safety we have in our Good Father together. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: A God Who Protects Us By: Alexis A. Goring “The Lord will protect you and keep you safe from all dangers.” —Psalm 121:7 (CEV) Did you know there is a God who will protect us and keep us safe from danger? I was reflecting on this Biblical truth one day while observing a professional actress watch over her baby girl as she filmed their day together on social media. Her toddler was acting cute in front of a mirror as she played with a rubber band in her hands. But as soon as her daughter put the rubber band into her mouth, Mom said in a high alert tone of voice, “That’s dangerous!” She put her phone down and went to rescue her daughter, taking the band out of her baby’s mouth before she could choke and die. Just like any good parent would drop everything to save their child from danger, we have a God who will protect us at all costs. The Bible shows us that God is a good Father who cares about our well-being and safety. He will always be there for us if we let Him. God warns us about danger but sometimes we’re too stubborn and shortsighted to listen. However, God still covers us and protects us. Another example about how God protects us is a cartoon I saw in a Christian publication many years ago. There was a big fence bordering a plateau on spacious land. A man ran toward the fence shouting that he’s tired of all these restrictions around him. His friend chased after him saying, “Stop! The fence is there to protect you!” But the man proceeded to jump over the fence and fall to his death because he didn’t realize that the fence was protecting people from falling off the steep cliff behind it. I think that illustration rings true for us as mere mortals today. This cartoon reminded me of our human condition. As humans, our wisdom is limited. We can only see so far ahead of us. We can only be wise to an extent. This is yet another reason why we need God. Sometimes, we feel like God is restricting us or keeping us from having fun. When we’re wanting to gratify our fleshly desires and do what feels good or enjoy what looks good in the sinful moments, we cannot see the consequences behind it. So just like the shortsighted man in that cartoon, we rush toward the restrictions, determined to either bulldoze through it or jump over it. But we don’t realize that such a brazen act could end our life. The Bible says in Proverbs 14:12 (NLT), “There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.” This is why it’s so important to trust God and seek His infinitely wise counsel before we make our plans and proceed...

In this heartfelt devotional, Vivian Bricker explores the biblical command to care for others—especially the weak, lonely, or overlooked. Drawing on Psalm 41:1-3 and her personal upbringing, she shares how compassion is not just an act of kindness but a reflection of Christ at work within us. If you’ve ever wondered how to serve God more deeply, start by noticing those who need a friend. Highlights (What You’ll Learn): Why caring for the weak reflects the heart of God (Psalm 41:1-3) How compassion flows from a Spirit-led life (John 13:34-35) What Scripture teaches about loving the forgotten (James 1:27, Ephesians 4:32) Practical encouragement to live with empathy, kindness, and a pure heart God’s promise to sustain and bless those who extend love to the vulnerable 💬 Join the Conversation: How have you seen God work through your care for others? Who in your life needs a little extra compassion this week? Tag @LifeAudioNetwork with #CaringWithChrist and share your story or a favorite verse that reminds you to love like Jesus. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: The Importance of Caring for Others By Vivian Bricker “Blessed are those who have regard for the weak; the Lord delivers them in times of trouble. The Lord protects and preserves them—they are counted among the blessed in the land—he does not give them over to the desire of their foes. The Lord sustains them on their sickbed and restores them from their bed of illness” (Psalm 41:1-3). From a young age, my mom taught me the importance of caring for others. If someone was sick, crying, or in pain, I was supposed to help them. If a kid was sitting alone at lunch or playing by themselves on the playground, my mom taught me to be their friend. I actually met my best friend in elementary school by following my mom’s advice, and I have continued to do this without thinking about it. Whenever someone seems hurt, brokenhearted, or struggling, I tend to migrate to them and I’m quickly able to build a friendship with them. I give the credit for this skill to my mother because she wanted to ensure I was a friend to the people who didn’t have any friends. As someone who has often been on the other side of this scenario in my adult years, I have often wished there was someone who would come sit with me when I was alone at the lunch table or silently looking out the window at group events. Sadly, not everyone is taught this same teaching in their childhood. However, there is much that is said in the Bible about caring for others. The Bible tells us to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving toward others (Ephesians 4:32). Jesus tells us we are to love others as He has loved us (John 13:34-35). We are also told to care for widows and orphans (James 1:27). From these teachings, we can see how important it is to God that we care for others. How can we do this if we are turning a deaf ear to their cries for help? As Christians, we are called to love and care for others. Anything short of this is ignoring the Lord’s commands. The love, kindness, and care we extend to others are a natural overflow of our faith. The work of the Holy Spirit in our lives helps us bring glory to the Father and the Son by loving others as they have loved us. Intersecting Faith & Life: Psalm 41:1-3 says, “Blessed are those who have regard for the weak; the Lord delivers them in times of trouble. The Lord protects and preserves them—they are counted among the blessed in the land—he does not give them over to the desire of their foes. The Lord sustains them on their sickbed and restores them from their bed of illness.” As this psalm tells us, we are blessed if we have regard for the weak. This means we will extend care, concern, and compassion to them. Love, kindness, and support will be our priorities toward others. For those who have regard for the weak, the Lord...

Follow the Wind by Megan J. Conner explores how the Holy Spirit often moves like the wind—subtle, powerful, and unseen. Through a vivid moment on a quiet balcony overlooking the ocean, Megan reflects on Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus in John 3:8 and encourages us to embrace the evidence of God’s presence, even when we can’t physically see it. This devotional invites listeners to deepen their faith walk, embrace spiritual discernment, and trust God’s guidance—even when the path isn’t clear. Highlights Reflecting on the invisible but undeniable movement of the Holy Spirit A faith-building reminder that God leads us even when we can’t see the full picture Encouragement to take a personal inventory of areas where faith feels strong versus where doubt creeps in Scripture focus: “The wind blows where it wishes…” – John 3:8 Practical prayer prompt and journaling activity to strengthen your trust in God Join the Conversation Have you ever felt the quiet nudge of the Spirit or seen God’s hand guiding you when the road ahead was unclear? Share your experience and tag @LifeAudioNetwork using #FaithInTheUnseen. We’d love to hear how you’re following the wind. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Follow the Wind By Megan J. Conner “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” John 3:8 (ESV) Warm cup of coffee in hand, Bible and journal in my lap, I greet another new day. However, today’s view is a bit different. Rather than my usual wooded scenery, I sit on a warm balcony overlooking the gulf. The ocean and the stunning white shores appear endless from my picturesque perch. Wave after wave crashes, and I am in awe of the sheer power. Who is this God who created such infinite beauty? I cannot help feeling overcome by the majesty before me. But beneath the grand landscapes, something subtle speaks. There is a whisper of the Spirit that gently beckons within the wind. Have you ever truly considered the wind? It can be a gentle and leading breeze or a forceful and powerful gale. However, because it is an unseen force, it is often overlooked and sometimes even misunderstood. It can be the same with our awareness and understanding of our Heavenly Father and His Kingdom. When Jesus explains to Nicodemus, the Pharisee, the mystery of how we must be born again of the Spirit when we come into faith, He uses the natural force of wind as an illustration. “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” John 3:8 (ESV) We accept that the wind exists because we can sense it. We cannot grasp the wind, but we can feel its gentle brush against our skin. We cannot see or taste it, yet fragrance is often a travel companion to a breeze. Though intangible, there is evidence that affirms the existence of the wind. And we readily accept this truth without questioning its validity. The same should be true about the Lord, yet we struggle to believe in what is unseen when it comes to our Heavenly Father. Just like the wind, the reality of a living and active God in our lives is evident, if only we would have the eyes to see. Every day, we journey through our lives in an artistic masterpiece. Stunning vistas, impressive geological sculptures, complex beings in all of their animate and inanimate forms, nurture our bodies and souls with their beauty and provisions, allowing us to survive and thrive here on this earth. Though visible, these earthly attributes remain hidden by the busyness and noise of all that demands our attention, and the worries that consume our hearts. It is my prayer today that we quiet our souls, lean in, and listen for that gentle whisper, that fragrant...

Keri Eichberger shares a vulnerable reflection on enduring seasons of deep emotional and physical discomfort. From her father’s sudden brain hemorrhage to chronic scoliosis pain and financial strain, she wrestled with losing every worldly comfort—only to discover that the true source of peace and strength is found in God alone. Based on 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, this episode invites listeners to rethink where they turn when life unravels. ✨ Highlights: Real-life encouragement on trusting God in suffering Why worldly comfort fades but God’s comfort is eternal A reminder that God meets us in our pain, not just to rescue us, but to refine us A powerful call to seek comfort in God Himself—not just relief 💬 Join the Conversation: Have you experienced a time when everything felt like it was falling apart? We’d love to hear your story. Tag us @LifeAudioNetwork and share how God became your comfort using #FaithInTheFire. Your testimony might encourage someone else walking through the same valley. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: The Comfort We Long For By Keri Eichberger Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) I can clearly recall a moment last fall when I said out loud, with tear-filled eyes, I feel like God keeps stripping away comfort after comfort and I don’t understand why? Starting six months back I’d endured profound emotional discomfort through my Dad’s life-altering brain hemorrhage, an unexpected and detrimental loss of financial comfort, and then the loss of my best friend’s comforting companionship at home when my husband—who after five years of working remote—was called back into the office full-time and indefinitely. I literally felt like one thread at a time the comforts of my life were beginning to unravel beneath me. I will thankfully say, through seasons of discomfort I had learned to understand two truths. One, that God didn’t promise comfort and ease in all situations and circumstances in life. In fact, he promised the opposite. And two, I understood that in our discomfort, God wants to remind us to look to him. So, though a bit slowly and reluctantly, I took heart in my confusion of adversity knowing this was part of the refining process that would lead to the blessings of a more resilient faith. What has caused you discomfort? Have you had moments recently, or that you can remember, when you had comforts stripped away as well? Maybe something in your home surroundings shifted unfavorably, or you experienced a painfully stretching financial strain. Maybe you’ve dealt with the onset of a health or mental struggle that caused considerable difficulty. I bet you can recount many circumstances or memories of instances where you had to sort through and handle losses of comfort in your life. Personally, what I didn’t know last fall when I started to wear thin as the comforts kept crumbling, was that there was even more in store. Because a month later my scoliosis, which had been paired with manageable pain for years, finally passed the tip of tolerable and became debilitating to the point of surgery a few short months later. But before I began to lash out at God once again for another layer of comfort peeled from my path, something struck me. I had been seeking comfort in all the wrong places. I had been blindly looking to the world for sufficiency and security. Sure, I understood that God never promised comfort from the world, and that he wanted me to rely on him for comfort. But he does not want me to seek him for the world‘s comforts. He wants me to seek him for him. For HIS comforts. Because he IS the comfort. And he is where I began to seek more and...

In this relatable devotional inspired by Psalm 23:1, we're reminded that God is our shepherd—even in everyday frustrations like broken lawnmowers and unexpected expenses. When everything felt like it was falling apart, this family discovered how God provides in unexpected ways, using others to show His faithfulness. Whether you're facing financial stress, emotional weariness, or simply trying to make ends meet, this story encourages us to trust God to provide exactly what we need—right on time. ✨ Highlights: Psalm 23:1 meaning – “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” God provides, even when the need feels small. Faith in hard times – God showed up through the kindness and integrity of others. God provides in unexpected ways – A broken mower became a reminder of His perfect timing and provision. Trusting God to provide – This story is a powerful example of relying on Him, even in the little things. Rest matters to God – Our physical and emotional needs are never overlooked by our Shepherd. 💬 Join the Conversation: Have you ever experienced God’s unexpected provision? What “impossible” situation has He carried you through? Tag @lifeaudionetwork and share your story with #TrustTheShepherd—your testimony could be just what someone else needs to hear today. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Trust the Shepherd “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” Psalm 23:1 Watching my husband spend endless hours cutting the lawn with a push mower each week after two weeks’ worth of torrential downpours, I knew it was time for a change. After working long hours, he had little time left for any recreation. Having to spend hours cutting the lawn and doing yard work was cutting into what little valuable free time he had left. “I think it's time to get a riding lawn mower,” I said. My husband had owned riding lawn mowers in the past but always got them used from social media sales markets. His luck had been less than stellar when it came to finding one that lasted. As he looked online, he found one that we could afford and felt it would last. He went over to the man's home, checked the motor, checked the gas, and took it for a spin. He was so happy he wouldn't have to spend long hours cutting the grass again. That was, until he started it up the following day. After one swipe around the yard, the engine started to race. He turned it off quickly, and a puff of white smoke came out of the end. As he lifted the motor cover, he quickly discovered a crack in the motor. An hour later, I went outside to find him pushing the push mower once again. My mind started racing with the thought of how we would find another riding lawnmower. After all, we had spent a few hundred dollars on this one, only to discover that it was broken after the first day. We certainly couldn't afford to get another riding lawn mower only to find it would do the same thing. My husband sat down next to me, dejected. “Why is my luck always like that?” he asked me. I tried to comfort him, but to no avail. Why was this happening to us? I asked him to contact the gentleman who sold it to him, and he let him know the situation. He got him in touch with the man who had serviced the lawn mower last fall. Before that, the owner had put it away for the winter. They worked out a deal, and the man was able to fix the mower and the motor under warranty. The Bible promises us that God is our good shepherd. Shepherds lead and guide their flock. They don't leave them alone, as they are unable to find food or water. He leads them to good things because he is the ultimate provider. God knew the lawn mower would break. But he also provided a man of integrity who would promise to fix it under warranty. He could have easily refused or said it was too far past the service period, but the man, compassionate over my husband’s plight, chose to do...

Trusting God to Guide Us Through Painful Unknowns When life feels like a dark, uncertain path, Isaiah 42:16 reminds us that we are never walking it alone. In this deeply personal devotional, Jennifer Slattery shares how God restored her marriage and led her and her husband through a season of brokenness they couldn’t fix on their own. Through Scripture and raw testimony, we’re reminded that God will guide you, even when the road ahead is unfamiliar and painful. His promises hold firm—even when we can’t see what’s next. ✨ Highlights: God lights the way in darkness – Isaiah 42:16 offers hope for those feeling lost or stuck. Faith in hard times leads to spiritual healing – God doesn’t just show the way, He walks with us. Healing in marriage is possible – Even toxic patterns can be restored by divine intervention. We don’t have to have it all figured out – Trusting God through uncertainty brings peace and direction. God’s promises are personal – He meets us in our pain and leads us forward with grace. 💬 Join the Conversation: Have you ever felt blind in a season of life? How has God led you when you couldn’t see the road ahead? Tag us @lifeaudionetwork and share your story with #GuidedByHisGrace—your journey could be the light someone else needs. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Trusting God to Guide Us Through Painful Unknowns by Jennifer Slattery I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them (Isaiah 42:16, NIV) About five years into our marriage, my husband and I almost got divorced. Although love, strong and pure, had drawn us together, our mutual dysfunction nearly tore us apart. We didn’t actually want to end things. But neither did we want our toxic patterns to continue. The problem was, we didn’t know how to repair the mess and heal the hurt we created. One night, while my husband was at work and our daughter asleep upstairs, I sat in our dark, silent living room, feeling so alone. Knowing what Scripture said about divorce, I concluded that the Lord wanted me to remain miserable for the rest of my life. I simply couldn’t imagine my husband’s and my relationship getting better. Frustrated, I told the Lord, “Fine. I’ll stay, but You’ve got to do this for me, because I’m done.” Although the prayer was more flippant than genuine, the Lord heard the unspoken cries of my heart—the pain, ache for connection, and flickering hope I’d buried in anger and “offense.” He saw the longing in our souls, the untended wounds and deception fueling our fights, and our ignorance when it came to building a healthy marriage. We were walking blind, stumbling along a foggy, uneven road marred with potholes, boulders and detours. We needed God’s supernatural vision, His hand to remove the obstacles too heavy for us to maneuver, and His guidance for our long, difficult and uncertain journey. In short, we needed Him to fulfill His promise recorded in today’s verse. The Lord originally spoke these comforting words, through a prophet, to the ancient Israelites during a dark period in their history. The people had rejected God to turn to idols, chose violence and oppression over integrity and love, and were seeking aid from a pagan nation rather than their ever-faithful Creator. The Lord warned them, for generations, of the judgment to come. But He also promised them forgiveness, transformation, and restoration through His “Faithful Servant”, the Messiah, His Son. In John 8:12, Jesus declared, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (NIV). He’s the One who illuminates every shadow lurking within our soul and who lovingly lights the path...

When life feels like a relentless heatwave—physically and spiritually—Psalm 23 offers more than poetic comfort; it offers divine renewal. In this devotional by Whitney Hopler, we’re reminded that God doesn’t just see our stress and exhaustion—He meets it with peace, stillness, and strength. Just like a good shepherd cares for his sheep, God refreshes your soul when you allow Him to lead you beside quiet waters. ✨ Highlights: God is your Shepherd – He provides, protects, and leads you with purpose. Spiritual renewal is available – Real rest comes not from a nap, but from God’s peace. Quiet waters = soul restoration – Make room for moments of prayer, nature, or Scripture that invite stillness. You lack nothing – Believing this frees you from stress and opens the door to lasting peace. 💬 Join the Conversation: Where do you go for rest when life feels overwhelming? How has God refreshed your soul lately? Tag us @lifeaudionetwork and share your story using #SoulRefreshedByGod so we can walk this journey together. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: God Will Refresh Your Soul By: Whitney Hopler “The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul...” – Psalm 23:1-3, NIV The summer heat can be so relentless that it drains away my energy. Whenever I come back to my air-conditioned home after being outside during summer, I crave some refreshment, so I pour myself a cold glass of water as soon as possible. On summer evenings, I take showers in cool water for more refreshment. This physical refreshment often reminds me of another kind of refreshment I need regularly – refreshment for my soul. Just like I need to recover physically from the heat of hot weather, I need to recover spiritually from the heat of stress that accumulates in my life from lots of work and other demands. Psalm 23 describes God as a shepherd who helps us get the rest we need, leads us beside quiet waters, and refreshes our souls. God makes it possible for us to enjoy the spiritual revival and renewal we all need. Here’s how you can rely on God to refresh your soul: Verse 1 says: “The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” When the Lord is your shepherd, he is guiding you, protecting you, and giving you what you need. Just like a good shepherd makes sure his sheep have what they need to thrive, God makes sure you have all that’s truly important for your well-being. When you really trust that God provides for your most important needs, a strong peace starts to settle in your soul, and that peace refreshes you from the inside out. Verse 2 points out: “He makes me lie down in green pastures.” In this busy world, it can be hard to really rest. You might take a break to sit on a couch to scroll on your phone, but real rest – the kind that makes your soul feel new again – often escapes you. God knows you need this rest. He encourages you to lie down. Your “green pastures” can be refreshing times of prayer and meditation, experiences enjoying God’s wonder in nature, or other kinds of breaks that refresh your soul. The second part of verse 2 declares: “he leads me beside quiet waters.” Quiet, still waters are peaceful. When your mind is racing and your spirit is troubled, God offers you his peace, which is much stronger than any stress you’ll ever face. You can enjoy following God to “quiet waters” by focusing on God’s peaceful presence with you. Finally, verse 3 begins by saying: “he refreshes my soul.” This is the wonderful result of God being your shepherd. When God refreshes your soul, he sends you the strength you need for what’s ahead in your life. God has unlimited strength, so he can empower you in every way you need fresh strength from him. So, ask God to refresh your soul whenever you need that. Just like you look for a cool drink...

Pain may be part of our lives, but so is the presence of a compassionate Savior. In The Healing Compassion of Jesus, Keri Eichberger shares a heartfelt devotional from Matthew 9:36 that reminds us we’re never left alone in our suffering. Jesus sees us, feels our pain, and meets us with deep compassion. Whether you're dealing with emotional wounds, physical ailments, or the quiet ache of the everyday, this message speaks to your soul and offers comfort straight from the Shepherd who never leaves His sheep. ✨ Highlights 💔 You are seen: God sees your suffering, even when no one else does. 🕊️ Jesus feels with you: He doesn’t just notice—He cares deeply. 🐑 He is your Shepherd: Even when life feels isolating, His comfort is personal and real. 🙏 Find peace today: Let His compassion become the healing balm your heart has been longing for. 📲 Join the Conversation Have you experienced the healing compassion of Jesus during a hard season? Tag us @LifeAudioNetwork and share your story using #HeHealsWithCompassion — your testimony could encourage someone who needs it today. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: The Healing Compassion of Jesus By Keri Eichberger When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. (Matthew 9:36) I’ve been suffering for sometime now with a specific physical pain I’m really ready to move on from. But who am I kidding, if I think about it, and reflect back far enough there’s always been something I’ve been actively suffering through. Like when I was in my teen years and experienced a bad break up that left deep lingering emotional pain for half a decade, or when I started having kids and began to live through a never ending roller coaster of mental strenuous stress and struggle. And the sad news for us all is that suffering and pain will continue to be a part of our lives until the good Lord calls us home. And I don’t know about you, but the longevity of this truth leaves me in constant longing for compassion and comfort. I deeply desire for someone to see me, see my hurt, and care enough to help or ease the difficulty and discomfort. I would ask if you feel the hurts of life too, but I know you do. We all do. The question is, what are you currently suffering through and how are you handling it? Has your suffering been long and seemingly without hope? Or have you been living through yoyo bursts of trials since before you can remember? Let me say, I’m so sorry. I feel your pain. It’s real and you’re not alone. You’re not alone because we’ve all been there. Though the truth is, our struggles can still feel isolating and like not one really gets it. Because though we all have our hard stuff, we can’t possibly be feeling or experiencing the exact emotions. We are unique souls with unique situations. So, yes, at times it’s hard to convince ourselves we’ll ever find the compassion we’re sure would soothe our souls. But can I remind you—though no one will completely get it, and thus it will seem like no one can completely comfort us—God sees you. And you may believe this. You may know that God genuinely sees you, but you may not feel like he cares enough to do anything about it based on the seeming lack of movement in a more favorable direction. In this case I want to reassure us both that he sees, but he also cares. He has compassion on you as you walk through each challenge and suffer through every hurt and heartache. Matthew 9:36 says, When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. This is the Lord Jesus. He is the shepherd seeing his hurting, helpless sheep, and having compassion on them. And you are the sheep, and he is your shepherd. Intersecting Faith and Life: Consider what you have been suffering through lately. And...

Do you feel like you’re running on empty—striving, pushing, juggling it all—and still feeling stuck? In this heartfelt Christian devotional on Matthew 11:28-30, Hannah Benson invites us to pause, breathe, and fall into the arms of Jesus. Through a personal moment of burnout and breakthrough, she reminds us that true rest isn't found in finishing the to-do list, but in trusting God’s timing and leaning into His presence. If you're craving soul-deep peace, this is your gentle invitation to come as you are—and find the rest your soul longs for. What You’ll Learn (Highlights): What it means to truly rest in Jesus, not just physically—but spiritually and emotionally Why doing things “for God” can never replace simply being with God How trusting God’s plan brings freedom from burnout, anxiety, and overachievement Practical encouragement for letting go of control and leaning into His embrace A reminder that your value isn’t in your productivity—it’s in being His beloved child 💬 Join the Conversation: What does it look like for you to fall into the arms of Jesus right now? Tag @LifeAudioNetwork with #RestInHisArms and share how God is inviting you to pause, trust, and rest today. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Fall into the Arms of Jesus A devotional by Hannah Benson ““Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV) Recently, the Lord challenged me to fall into His arms. At first glance, that statement may sound odd, but allow me to clarify. What exactly does falling into the arms of Jesus mean? It’s not like I can literally fall into His arms. On a particularly stressful afternoon, I found myself staring at a blank screen instead of working on the writing project I needed to tackle. Honestly, I was kind of frustrated with myself. “I need to get this done”, I thought. Yet no matter how hard I tried to concentrate and move past the writer’s block, I either ended up staring at a blank screen or mindlessly scrolling through social media hoping inspiration would strike—which, by the way, never happens. As I sat there, the Lord quietly whispered to my spirit: “I want you to spend time with Me.” Yes, God, that would be a good idea except I needed to finish what I was doing first. Which was what? Oh yes. Overcoming writer’s block and actually getting words on the page. Ugh. Eventually, the Holy Spirit’s prompting won out, and I closed my laptop and picked up my Bible instead. I don’t know how to explain it, but it was as if my spirit did a trust-fall. And instantly I realized what the Lord had been trying to tell me all along. Perhaps I’d gotten so busy doing things for God that I’d forgotten to spend time with Him. Quality time is my love language. Why then would I not ensure I spent time with the One Who loves me more infinitely than I could ever know? Yes, I have a lot of things on my plate. As the old adage says, perhaps “I’ve bitten off more than I can chew”. But what is more important than anything I could ever do? Cultivating relationships. With God, first and foremost, and then with others. Loving God and others. Serving God and others. Sounds really simple, doesn’t it? Simple but often difficult to live out. I realized I’d been trying to do everything in my own strength instead of relying on the Lord. I’d been yearning to rush the journey, but God was challenging me with an alternative. What if instead of trying to do things in my own strength, why not lean on the Lord? Instead of rushing through life, what if I found joy in the journey? What if I learned to trust His process and plan for my life instead of what I could perceive? Intersecting Faith &...

We all thirst for something—but are we drinking from the right well? In this heartfelt devotional, Alexis A. Goring shares how a simple moment at a lemonade stand revealed a deeper truth about our spiritual lives. Reflecting on John 4:10, she draws a powerful parallel between physical thirst and the soul’s longing for the Living Water that only Jesus can provide. Whether you’re feeling spiritually dry, chasing worldly “quick fixes,” or just in need of renewal, this Christian devotional on John 4 offers refreshing encouragement: Only Jesus can truly satisfy. 📌 What You’ll Learn (Highlights): What the “Living Water” in John 4:10 really means for your daily walk with God How the Samaritan woman’s story shows Jesus meets us in our mess, not our perfection Why worldly pleasures can’t satisfy a spiritual need—and how to return to Christ How to recognize the “counterfeit comforts” we chase in place of God Encouragement to fill your soul with what it truly needs: a relationship with Jesus 💬 Join the Conversation: What “lemonade” have you been chasing to quench your soul? Tag @LifeAudioNetwork with #ThirstQuenched and share how Jesus has met your deepest need—or how you’re learning to turn to Him first. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: The Living Water We All Need By: Alexis A. Goring “Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” —John 4:10 NIV One hot and humid summer day, I attended a festival outdoors. After enjoying the various activities, my throat felt parched. To quench my thirst, I walked over to the lemonade stand and bought a big cup of lemonade. But that first cup didn’t quench my thirst, so I returned to the lemonade stand a few minutes later to buy another one, only to return again ten minutes later to buy one more. It was not until after trying to quench my thirst with three big cups of lemonade that I realized what I really needed was water to drink. Therefore, I returned to the lemonade stand one more time—this time to purchase a big cup of pure water. The ice-cold water started to quench my deep thirst from the moment it touched my tongue. As I gulped it down, my desperate thirst was quenched. It was like my body was saying, “Finally! She is giving me exactly what I need.” Looking back on this experience that taught me an important life lesson, I realized a spiritual parallel to this story: Just like my body needed pure water to keep it hydrated and protected in the intense heat of that day, my spirit and soul needs something only God can give. Scripture calls it Living Water (referring to our Savior, Jesus Christ). The Bible shows a story in John 4:1-42 about a Samaritan woman who was a social outcast not just because of her ethnicity and heritage (the Jews ostracized the Samaritans) but because of her sinful lifestyle that was gossiped about by the women in the town where she lived. Hoping to escape their scrutiny, this Samaritan woman would make the long trek to the town’s well to draw water during the time of the day when the heat was so intense that nobody else dared to go to there. She did this to avoid facing the women who treated her poorly. We may go unnoticed in society and at times feel like an outcast but to Jesus Christ, we are always seen, heard, understood and supported—this Samaritan woman was no exception. The Bible says that Jesus took time out of his journey with his disciples to stay behind at this same well while they went to town. It wasn’t an accident or coincidence—He planned this one-on-one meeting with this woman who was in so much pain from her past. Long story short: Jesus revealed himself as the Messiah and offered her living water—the kind that satisfies your soul when you accept it. This woman came to know Jesus as not...

What if you could pray with boldness, knowing God always hears you? In this encouraging devotional, Sarah Frazer reflects on Mark 11:24 and reminds us that prayer isn’t about how much faith we have—it’s about who we’re putting our faith in. Whether you're praying for peace in a stressful season or asking God for a life-changing breakthrough, this Christian devotional on prayer offers a powerful perspective: God answers because He is good, not because we are perfect. 📌 What You’ll Learn (Highlights): Why Mark 11:24 gives us confidence that God hears and answers our prayers The difference between faith in God vs. faith in outcomes Biblical examples that prove God’s character as a faithful responder Encouragement for when prayers seem unanswered or delayed How even “mustard seed faith” connects us to God’s unlimited power 💬 Join the Conversation: What are you asking God for right now—big or small? Has He answered a prayer in a surprising way? Tag @LifeAudioNetwork with #AnsweredByGrace to share your story and encourage others who are still waiting. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Praying with Confidence Because God Answers By Sarah Frazer Bible Reading: Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24 (ESV) Devotional My children ask me all of the time for things. Most of the time they ask me for small things, like food or a drink. Sometimes they are looking for something like a specific shirt or shoes. Occasionally, especially as they have gotten older, the requests tend to be bigger. “Will you drive me to the movies with my friends?” “Can you buy this for me?” “Can I go here for my birthday?” “Can you help me fill out this job application?” Those requests often require more than just a few minutes of my time. As a mother, I want to answer my children’s requests, even it means I am inconvenienced. Sometimes I can, but because I am only human, sometimes I can’t accommodate them. Aren’t you glad we have a Heavenly Father who is not limited by time, space, or ability? God the Father never sleeps (Psalm 121) and is always listening to our prayers. (Psalm 116) Not only that, Jesus reminds us in Mark 11 that God answers our prayers. Jesus’ declaration in Mark 11:24 is not a new teaching of scripture. All throughout the Old Testament we see reminders of God’s promise to answer His people’s cry. We see this in Exodus when God heard the cries of the Israelites while they were enslaved in Egypt. He heard them and acted to set them free. We see this when Hannah cries out to God for a child and she gives birth to Samuel. Or when David asks God for victory, and God grants it. Over and over again the God of the Old Testament answers the prayers of His people. When Jesus comes on the scene in the Gospels, although He is bringing a New Covenant, not based on the law, we see so many things about God’s character that do not change. Jesus says that the same God of the Old Testament is the same God of the New Testament. God still answers prayer. It might be tempting to read a verse like Mark 11:24 and think that our prayers are only heard or answered because we believe. Is it our faith that makes the prayer possible? No. It is not our faith, because in the same passage Jesus said that faith as small as a mustard seed, which is the smallest seed, can move mountains. It is not the size of the faith but who we have our faith in that matters. When we come to God in prayer, we need not worry if we believe enough or have enough faith. So many times I’ve prayed for things and then they didn’t happen. God shut a door I wanted to be open or a person died who I wanted to live. Healing sometimes doesn’t come and dreams do die. Was it our lack of faith that caused the defeat? I believe that as we lift our prayers to God, it is...

What are the desires of your heart? Sometimes we think, “If I just had ___, then I’d finally be happy.” Psalm 37:4 offers a different promise: “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” This powerful devotional by Megan J. Conner explores how God lovingly transforms our longings—helping us discover that what we truly desire is Him. If you’ve ever wondered why even your biggest wins still leave you wanting more, this message will speak to the deeper need in your soul: true contentment in God. 📌 What You’ll Learn (Highlights): Why our deepest longings often can’t be satisfied by success, status, or stuff How Psalm 37:4 reveals God’s process of shaping—not just granting—desires Encouragement to reflect on your current goals through an eternal lens The comforting truth that only God fills the “God-shaped hole” in our hearts Scripture-based hope to anchor you in seasons of unmet desires 💬 Join the Conversation: What’s something you’ve longed for—only to find it still didn’t satisfy? How has God shifted your heart over time? Share your story using #HeartCheckFaith and tag @LifeAudioNetwork to encourage others on the same journey. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: The Desires of Your Heart By Megan J. Conner “Delight yourself also in the LORD, And He shall give you the desires of your heart,” Ps. 37:4 (NKJV). We all know the legends in which a nod of the head, a rub of the lamp, or a drink of fantastic waters will allow someone’s greatest wishes to come true. While these stories are fiction rather than fact, in many ways, we yearn for such a reality. We think that if we could just receive what we are longing for, our hearts would finally be satisfied. My husband often likes to joke, “If I can only win a million dollars, then life would be perfect. I don’t need to be greedy; I just want one. Just one tiny million, and then I would never ask for anything else.” Perhaps you can relate. Maybe you aren’t dreaming of a million dollars or a grand house on a hill (that is fully paid off), but it is so easy to believe tangible items or outcomes will ease our angst. We project, if my children would just find the right spouse, then I would have peace. If my parents’ health would improve, then I will stop worrying. If I could just obtain that perfect job, then I would be happy. The list can go on and on. However, what we are really seeking is our version of what we think we want. Thankfully, our Heavenly Father sees far beyond our momentary light afflictions (2 Cor. 4:17) and into the deep crevices of our souls. He, and He alone, understands the true desires of our hearts when we may not know them ourselves. “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb… You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered!” Ps. 139:13-18 (NLT) God formed us and saw the path our lives would take while on this planet. He is intimately aware of the thoughts of our hearts and omnisciently redirects our lives so that we may receive the true desires of our hearts rather than our shallow substitutes. For many of us, the ultimate longing of our heart is oneness with Him. There is a well-known Christian saying, “There’s a God-shaped hole in our hearts.” While it may sound cliché, there is profound truth in this statement. Nothing else will satisfy that innate craving each one of us carries within our souls other than the Lord. Because of this, our Heavenly Father is so good to grant us rich, abundant treasure. Through trials or blessings, each circumstance is a...

Have you ever felt trapped in a cycle you just couldn’t break—where freedom feels promised but not lived out? In today’s devotional, Jennifer Slattery shares her deeply personal journey through disordered eating and emotional wounds. But more than that, she reveals the key to lasting freedom: learning to rely not on our own strength, but on Christ's Spirit within us. 2 Corinthians 3:17 reminds us, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” This isn’t just a feel-good verse—it’s a declaration of the abundant life we’re meant to walk in every day. 🌟 Highlights: 🔑 Real talk on spiritual strongholds and emotional healing 🛑 Why we self-sabotage even when we know better 🙌 Freedom isn’t found through striving—but in surrender 💡 How the Holy Spirit leads us toward healing, hope, and transformation 💬 Join the Conversation Have you ever experienced God setting you free from a mindset or habit? We’d love to hear your story. Share in the comments or tag us @LifeAudioNetwork using #FreedomInChrist to join the conversation. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Learning to Live in Christ’s Freedom by Jennifer Slattery Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 2 Corinthians 3:17 In my teen years, I responded to my chaotic and painful environment by seeking control—through dieting. Soon, however, this unhealthy coping mechanism began to control me, and the very act that initially provided a sense of strength—pseudo strength—only added to the feelings of hopelessness from which I so desperately sought to escape. Initially, I tried to fight my eating disorder in my own strength, but this inevitably led to failure and shame. I began to experience the freedom I sought, not just from disordered eating, but the wounds driving it, when I invited God into my struggle and learned to rely, more consistently, on His power at work within me. While I’ve come a long way, praise God, since my self-destructing adolescence, my soul still contains wounds for which I need the Lord’s healing, and self-sabotaging patterns in need of His freedom. I gain the courage to follow Him in that transformative journey when I reflect not on the difficulty of obedience but instead on the heart of the One doing the leading. Jesus longs to see me, and you, living in the freedom of grace. This is a beautiful gift bestowed upon everyone who’s trusted in Christ for salvation. His Spirit does indeed set us free—from the enslaving pull of sin, from the threat of death, and the punishment we deserve for all our moral failings. Yet, if this is true, why do so many of us still struggle with self-sabotaging, unChrist-like behaviors? Like lashing out when we’re hurt, angry, or feel under attack, or withdrawing and isolating in self-protection? Comforting ourselves with a quart of ice cream, numbing out through hours of television watching or mindlessly scrolling through our social media feeds? We’ve received spiritual freedom through faith in Christ, but now we need to learn to live in it. We do this, in part, by becoming more alert to God’s presence within us and all around us. As today’s verse states, He is Spirit. This means He’s not bound by space or time. He remains present in our greatest challenges and regrets and plants within our souls hope for our future. Today’s verse also reminds us of His heart toward us, His children. He longs to see us living vibrantly, beautifully free. That was why Jesus came. Foretelling Christ’s mission, as if through His voice, the prophet Isaiah wrote: The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, 2 to proclaim the...

Whether you're facing a thunderstorm outside or a spiritual storm within, this powerful devotional reminds us of one unwavering truth: God is greater than any storm. Drawing from Psalm 77, author Whitney Hopler explores how the natural chaos of a thunderstorm mirrors the emotional and spiritual turmoil we all experience—yet ultimately, both point us back to God's unmatched strength and presence. As we weather life’s uncertainties—unexpected loss, broken relationships, anxiety, or burnout—this message offers real peace: the Creator who commands the lightning and thunder is right there with us in our storms, guiding us to calmer, more hopeful days. ✨ Highlights Psalm 77 imagery paints a vivid picture of God’s power, reminding us that no storm—physical or emotional—is stronger than Him. Life’s storms often come without warning, but they have purpose: spiritual renewal, clarity, and deeper trust in God. Whitney shares how even thunder, lightning, and chaos can become reminders of God’s sovereignty. Encouragement to lean into God’s strength when life gets loud, messy, and uncertain. A fresh perspective on hardship: storms can be wake-up calls, cleansing moments, and faith builders. 💬 Join the Conversation Have you weathered a spiritual storm recently? What did God teach you in it? Share your story with us and encourage someone else walking through the rain. Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #GodIsMyShelter to join the conversation. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: God Is Stronger than Any Storm By: Whitney Hopler “The clouds poured down water, the heavens resounded with thunder; your arrows flashed back and forth. Your thunder was heard in the whirlwind, your lightning lit up the world; the earth trembled and quaked.” – Psalm 77:17-18, NIV I watched in awe as a summer thunderstorm raged outside one afternoon. Safe inside my house, I looked through a window as dark clouds poured down water in blurry sheets. I listened as thunder rumbled so loudly that the sound vibrated in my body. Our cat was so scared by the thunder’s noise that she ran to hide in our coat closet. Our lights flickered, and then the power went out completely. Huge streaks of lightning flashed in the sky as the storm kept going with furious energy. We often feel vulnerable when a big storm hits. We lose electrical power, roads flood, and trees fall. But even in the middle of that chaos, there’s something beautiful about how a storm reminds us of something greater than ourselves. The sense of awe we feel when we experience nature’s power points us to nature's Creator, God. Thunderstorms are incredibly powerful, but even the strongest thunderstorm is still just a part of creation and can’t match God’s strength as the Creator. Psalm 77:17-18 uses the imagery of a thunderstorm to describe God’s awesome power and give us a sense of how overwhelming it can be. God has unlimited power, so God is stronger than any storm. Just as there are physical storms, there are also spiritual storms in our lives. These can come in many forms – such as a broken relationship, a sudden job loss, or a scary health diagnosis – in our fallen world. These spiritual storms can feel just as overwhelming as a raging thunderstorm. They can leave us feeling shaken and drenched in discouragement. But here’s the wonderful truth: The same God who commands the thunder and lightning is the God who is always with you, even as you go through storms. You can count on God to help you with everything you need during storms, and you can look forward to God bringing good purposes out of them. Just like physical storms, spiritual storms can also serve good purposes. A thunderstorm clears the air and renews the earth. Our spiritual storms are painful when we go through them, but they also refresh us. They can wash away our complacency, clarify our priorities,...

In this heartfelt devotional, look back on life’s milestones—not as random moments, but as powerful testimonies of God’s faithfulness. Inspired by Joshua 4, where stones were stacked as a memorial to God’s miraculous provision, the message encourages us to establish “stones of remembrance” in our own lives. Whether it's an anniversary, birthday, or a moment of personal breakthrough, every celebration becomes a spiritual marker of what God has done. Highlights: Biblical Encouragement: Reflects on Joshua 4:7 and how God called His people to remember His faithfulness. Personal Application: Through a 25th wedding anniversary celebration, we’re reminded to use joyful occasions as public testimony of God’s goodness. Spiritual Challenge: Encourages believers to boldly celebrate God’s faithfulness, not just in quiet reflection, but in community celebration and witness. Cultural Connection: Highlights how even in modern Christian living, we can reclaim the practice of pausing to praise. “Jesus’ ministry revolved around celebration. He even turned water into wine at a wedding!” Join the Conversation: What are the “stones of remembrance” in your life? How have you seen God's faithfulness over the years? Share your story with us by tagging @LifeAudioNetwork and using #CelebrateGodsFaithfulness. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Celebrate the Lord “These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever.” Joshua 4:7 As the DJ played our wedding song, we marched into the banquet hall to the sounds of our friends and family erupting in applause. After celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary in June, we decided to throw a party to celebrate all that God had done through that time. After we entered the room, I grabbed the microphone from the DJ. I thanked everyone for coming and told them how blessed we are to have such wonderful friends and family who took time out of their busy schedule to celebrate with us. I then said to them that at the bottom of their favor box, they would find a small stone. The theme of the party was around Joshua 4, where the Israelites stacked twelve stones together at the place where the Lord had done something significant for their people: “Go over before the ark of the Lord your God into the middle of the Jordan. Each of you is to take up a stone on his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the Israelites, to serve as a sign among you. In the future, when your children ask you, ‘What do these stones mean?’ tell them that the flow of the Jordan was cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord. When it crossed the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever,” Joshua 4:5-7. I ended by telling them that this was a celebration of all that God had done in and through us over the past twenty-five years. We wanted to use the party as a stone of remembrance for everyone in attendance. I wanted them not only to rejoice with us and all that God had done through us, but I also wanted to rejoice with them and what God had been doing through them. As I spoke with many of our guests, they shared stories of the things God has been doing over the past twenty-five years. We all go through periods of great trial and grief. The church is a beacon of light that can be a source of comfort and hope to those who are truly grieving. However, the local church does not always celebrate the milestones and memories of the significant things God has done that deserve celebration. After all, Jesus' ministry revolved around celebration. He even turned water into wine at wedding feasts! Jesus wants us to celebrate all the things that God does in and through us. He wants to use it as a testimony to who God is and how God works amid difficult circumstances. Our wedding is a testimony to God's...

In a culture that often silences or shames believers, staying bold in your faith can feel exhausting. But Hebrews 12:3 gives us a lifeline: “Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” This devotional challenges Christians to stop hiding and start standing—especially when it’s uncomfortable. Whether you’ve faced ridicule, workplace pushback, or quiet pressure to compromise your beliefs, this message reminds you that you’re not alone—and that your strength comes from Christ, who faced opposition and never backed down. Stay firm. Stay faithful. Stay grounded in the One who understands your suffering. 📌 What You’ll Learn (Key Takeaways): Why spiritual endurance is essential when facing rejection for your beliefs How Jesus models faithful perseverance through persecution Encouragement for believers navigating criticism or exclusion for their faith Ways to embrace religious freedom with courage and gospel-centered boldness How to find emotional and spiritual strength in Jesus when you feel weary 💬 Join the Conversation: Have you ever been criticized or left out because of your faith in Jesus? How did you respond—and what did God teach you through it? Share your story to encourage someone else. Tag us @lifeaudionetwork and use #StandFirmInFaith to join the conversation. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Don’t Grow Weary or Lose Heart By Vivian Bricker Bible Reading: “Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:3). About a year ago, my family and I watched a series called “Torchlighters.” For each episode, they would tell the story of someone who died for their faith in Christ. Most of the time, these individuals were missionaries; however, some were persecuted in their own hometowns. After each episode, I was convicted by their amazing faith. They knew they were going to be persecuted for their faith and even killed, yet they continued serving the Lord. Not many of us are physically persecuted for our faith if we live in America; however, many of us are looked down upon or made fun of because of our faith in Jesus. Sometimes these individuals can take it further and cause problems for us at school or in the workplace. Sadly, this is to be expected. As Christians, the world will hate us. The Lord already warned us of this truth (John 15:18). It can be hard to face this reality, yet it is something we have to do. Being opposed by the world will continue throughout our lives, but we must be strong in the Lord. If we are blessed enough to live somewhere we have religious freedom, we need to take advantage of this opportunity and share our faith freely. Even though schools and the workforce might oppose us, we still have the freedom to share what we believe. Similar to how a Muslim or a Buddhist could share his or her faith with others, we can share our faith too. As Christians, we need to take hold of this opportunity and truly start living out our faith. There are Christians throughout the world who are dying for their faith in Jesus. They are not tap dancing around whether someone would like them or not after they share the Gospel. Instead, they are boldly sharing the Gospel because of their love for the Lord. Rather than continuing to be afraid of someone making fun of us or belittling us, we need to start being bold in sharing the Gospel. Jesus knows what it feels like to be mistreated and hurt, yet we often don't turn to Him when we are suffering for our faith. Sometimes, we even blame Him for our pain or hurt. Jesus is not the one to blame, and we don't need to accuse Him of doing wrong. Jesus is our Savior and Lord. He surrounds us with His comfort, protection, and hope. Whenever others persecute us in any form, we need to run to Him instead of...