The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

Motherhood may be one of the most sacred roles God has given—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood in today’s culture. In today’s devotional, Lynette Kittle invites us to take a closer look at what the Bible really says about motherhood and how God designed it with both purpose and power. Despite society's mixed messages—telling women to prioritize success, beauty, or convenience—Scripture reminds us that life itself begins in the womb, shaped by the hands of God: “For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother’s womb.” —Psalm 139:13 While childbirth comes with pain—a result of the fall in Genesis 3—God still calls it a blessing, a sacred invitation to partner with Him in the miracle of life. Even Jesus came through a mother, because that’s how God designed humanity to flourish. We encourage you to pray:“Lord, thank You for the gift of life. Help me honor the role of motherhood—whether I’m a mom, have one, or am still healing from what motherhood has meant in my life. Remind me that You are the Giver of every life, and that no person is here by accident.” In a world that often minimizes motherhood, God elevates it. He sees, honors, and blesses the mothers, the births, and every life created in love. Let this be your reminder: Whether you were born through natural means, technology, or adoption—God formed you. He knows you. He chose you. Join the Conversation:How has your view of motherhood been shaped by culture or by Scripture? What gives you hope when thinking about life, legacy, and God’s design? Let us know @LifeaudioNetwork or by email—we’d love to hear your story and walk with you in faith. 🎙 💬 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW - Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Explore more Crosswalk Podcasts - Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Taking a Closer Look at Motherhood (719 words) By Lynette Kittle “A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world”--John 16:21 Motherhood has taken a hit over the years with women’s careers and educational pursuits taking the forefront, along with abortion, convincing women that being a mother isn’t worth the time, effort, or cost it takes to carry, birth, and care for a child. But without mothers, of course, none of us would experience life, except Adam and Eve, who were the only people in the history of the earth to enter life without one. Genesis 1:27 explains how they came to life. “So God created mankind in His own image, in the image of God He created them; male and female He created them.” Since then, even if babies are created in a Petri dish or test tube, they’ve needed a woman to make it possible. Even Jesus came to earth through a mother, because that’s how God designed humanity to multiply. Motherhood’s Curse Because of the fall of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, sin brought with it a curse affecting childbirth. As Genesis 3:16 describes, “To the woman He said, ‘I will make your pains in childbearing very severe; with painful labor you will give birth to children. Your desire will be for your husband, and he will rule over you.” Because of the pain and suffering attached to giving birth, some women opt out of carrying a child, afraid to experience the pain and discomfort associated with it, some fearful of the bodily changes that occur with new life growing within one’s body brings with it. More and more mothers today are finding surrogates to bear the brunt of childbirth risks for them, some for health and infertility reasons and concerns, others so carrying a child doesn’t interfere with their careers or affect their physical appearance. Motherhood’s Gift Even though motherhood comes with a curse, it also comes as a gift, too. 1 Timothy 2:15 explains, “But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety.” God, the Giver of all life, created motherhood, entrusting women with both the pain and joy of bearing children and placing His blessing upon the process. As Genesis 1:28 explains, “God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.’” Although humanity has found various ways around the natural process of baby making, still, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him” (Psalm 127:3). No matter how humans attempt to create new life, God is still the Giver of Life. It is He who knows and forms babies, giving them life, regardless of how humans discover how to orchestrate their beginnings. God told the prophet Jeremiah that, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations” (Jeremiah 1:5). He is the only life-source for humanity. “Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being” (Genesis 2:7). However babies are conceived, God is still the one forming them and breathing life into their tiny human bodies. As Psalm 139:13 describes, “For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother’s womb.” Science and technology, as powerful as they may seem, cannot bring life into this world without God because it isn’t possible without His hand and His design for the creation of life. Intersecting Faith & Life:  Are you struggling with the idea of motherhood and how life is created? If so, look to God’s word for clarification. Or, if you came into this world in an unconventional way, don’t let it deter you from the fact that God created you, not science or technology. He is the one who formed you and gave you life. Further Reading: A Prayer to Treasure the Sanctity of Life https://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/your-daily-prayer/a-prayer-to-treasure-the-sanctity-of-life.html Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What’s keeping you in chains today—sin, fear, or something else? Vivian Bricker reminds us that Jesus has already won our freedom, but too often we live as if we’re still locked in a self-made prison. It’s time to step into the light, leave behind old patterns, and walk confidently in the freedom Christ provides. 🔑 3 Key Takeaways ✅ Jesus’ freedom is eternal and unshakeable.Christ died to free us from sin, fear, and bondage. ✅ We build our own prisons when we stay in sin or fear.Even when we think we’re in control, sin controls us. ✅ Freedom means walking in obedience and confidence.Let go of fear and sin, and embrace the abundant life God offers. 🛠️ Intersecting Faith & Life Are you walking in the freedom Jesus offers—or stuck in a prison of sin or fear? What steps can you take today to walk away from what’s holding you back? Pray and ask Jesus to help you live in the full freedom He’s already given you. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Christ Has Set Us Free By Vivian Bricker “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery” (Galatians 5:1). When we think of freedom, we normally think of America gaining independence from Britain. In America, this is what we celebrate on the Fourth of July—our independence. It is common for us to celebrate our independence and freedom on this day, yet most of us are still living in a prison we have constructed for ourselves. Despite the Lord having already set us free by blessing us with salvation, we are still living in a manmade prison.  Whenever we are actively living in sin, we are building a prison around ourselves. Even if we might think we have everything “covered” or “controlled,” we really do not. We are never in control of sin—it is controlling us. This is why we must not become calloused to sin. Sin is sin, no matter what sin it might be. Many people think certain sins are more severe than others, but all sins are equal. If we commit one sin, it is just as bad as committing all of them. This is because God does not treat sin lightly. There are consequences for our sins that will prevail in our lives. We might think we have everything under control, yet when things start turning sour, we can only blame ourselves.  Sin is not good, and as Christians, we don't need to promote it. I have seen too many people turn away from God by engaging in a life of sin, and it only eats away at their hearts. Rather than continuing to live in a state of slavery to sin, we need to step out of the chains. The Lord has already set us free, and we need to continue to walk in this freedom. Jesus’ Freedom The Apostle Paul tells us, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery” (Galatians 5:1). As Paul says in this passage, Jesus has set us free. With this freedom, we need to stand firm and not allow ourselves to be burdened again by the yoke of slavery. The freedom the Lord has given us is eternal, constant, and steadfast.  Instead of locking ourselves away in our own prisons, we need to step out into the light. In this light, we see Jesus and the freedom He died for us to possess. Freedom is never given for nothing. Rather, Jesus had to die for our sins in order for this freedom to come to us. With this in mind, we need to take hold of this freedom, turn away from sin, and bring glory to the Lord. Praise Him, thank Him, and walk in obedience to His Word.  The more we do this, the more we will begin truly living in the freedom of Christ. Maybe we are not struggling with a specific sin right now, but we are dealing with fear. We don't need to let fear keeps us in prison, either. With the Lord’s freedom, we can step out of our prison of fear and walk in the confidence of the Lord. Jesus is always protecting us, and there is no reason to fear.  No matter what you are being held a slave to today, give it over to Jesus. He has already given you freedom, and it is time to take it. The Lord loves us and wants us to live in the freedom of the abundant life He has given us. There is no time to continue to be a slave to sin, fear, or anything else. Jesus has set us free,, and this freedom will never be taken away. Intersecting Faith & Life: Are you currently walking in the freedom of Jesus? Why or why not?  Does the prison of sin, fear, or something else cause you to feel safer? If so, explain.  What would it look like to remove yourself from your self-made prison? “Dear Jesus, I've been living in a prison for too long. You have set me free, and I'm taking hold of it today. Whenever I start drifting back to my prison, please pull me toward You. Thank You for Your freedom, Lord. I know You went to great lengths to set me free. I praise You, Amen.” Further Reading:  John 10:10 2 Peter 2:19 John 8:36 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Ever felt like God is distant or silent in your struggles? Megan J. Conner reminds us of the powerful truth from Romans 8: absolutely nothing can separate us from God’s love. Whether you’ve drifted through busyness, pain, or doubt, God’s presence remains constant and faithful. 🔑 3 Key Takeaways ✅ God’s love is constant—even when we can’t feel it.His nearness doesn’t depend on our emotions or circumstances. ✅ Distractions and pain can cloud our awareness of God.We may drift away, but He never leaves. ✅ Nothing in all creation can sever God’s love.Not sin, failure, hardship, or even death can break His commitment to us. 🛠️ Intersecting Faith & Life Have you been distracted or discouraged, feeling far from God? How does Romans 8 reshape your view of God’s nearness and faithfulness? Take time today to reflect and invite God back into every corner of your heart. 📚 Further Reading Romans 8 Psalm 145 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Inseparable By Megan J. Conner “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword...? For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Rom. 8:35-39 (NIV) Have you ever felt like God was nowhere to be found? Chaos and confusion seem to be your constant companions, yet it appears you are battling through it all alone. Despite your best efforts, you fail to recognize the presence of the Lord in it with you. The silence and His apparent absence leave you discouraged and disappointed. Where is the Lord? The Word of God assures us that “…the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you, (Deut. 31:6, NIV).” Even when we can’t see it, He is with us.  His Holy Spirit remains within us.  His Word also promises, “The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” If these promises are true, why then do we feel so distant from our Heavenly Father? The perceived chasm between us and the Lord is likely the result of our own choices and actions. Often, our disappointment, hurt, or confusion about circumstances in our lives cause us to retreat from our true source of comfort. We may be fully aware of this withdrawal if there is clear resentment or frustration present. Perhaps we are questioning God’s goodness and justice when faced with unwelcome and sometimes shocking dilemmas. In other seasons, we find ourselves far from the Lord and have no idea how we got there. We believe God has abandoned us but the truth is, we allowed distraction, the busyness of life, and the things of this world to consume our thoughts.  Before we know it, our hearts have waxed cold, and we struggle to feel a sense of intimacy with the One we love.  Regardless of how or why we may have wandered away from the source of Living Water, there is less distance than we imagine in between us of the Lord. Our scripture today from Romans chapter eight boldly declares there is NOTHING that can separate us from the love of God. Not hardship, not persecution; not famine or sword, not height or depth, not even death or life… There is nothing in all of creation that can separate us from the love of God. Isn’t that so incredibly powerful? There is nothing you can or cannot do that would cause the Lord to abandon you.  There are no circumstances that would compel Him to distance Himself from you. No failures, no sin… not even the finality of death itself can disconnect you from your Heavenly Father. This kind of constancy is unfathomable to us.  In a world where divorce rates are high, loved ones are lost to disease, and everything here on earth comes to an end, an eternal, unconditional commitment to love us and remain with us is almost beyond our comprehension. Yet, this is the height and the depth of God’s love for us. No matter where you find yourself today, He is near.  He has not left you, or abandoned you. Turn to Him today and remember… His love for you is inseparable.   Intersecting Faith & Life: Have you felt like God was distant in your life? If so, how does today’s devotional shift your perspective? Can you see how scripture clearly illustrates God’s faithfulness and nearness to you? Do you believe that the Lord would never abandon or forsake you? Why or why not?  Take some time today to ask the Lord the show you areas of your heart where you have wandered from Him. Have you been distracted, preferring and prioritizing the things of this world and the busyness of life instead of spending time with Him? Or have there been painful experiences that have caused you the question God’s goodness in the midst of your hardships? No matter where you find yourself today, know that the Lord is there and patiently waiting for you to crack open the door of your heart and once again invite Him in.  Further Reading: Romans 8 Psalm 145 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you stuck in a cycle of working hard but feeling empty? Deidre Braley unpacks Haggai’s powerful message to the Israelites—and to us: when we neglect God’s presence, our efforts fall flat. This episode reveals why shifting your priorities to build the Lord’s house first can break cycles of frustration and lead to true fruitfulness. 3 Key Takeaways ✅ Misplaced priorities drain your life.Busyness without God leads to frustration and burnout. ✅ Making space for God invites His blessing.When we shift focus to God—through rest, prayer, and obedience—He promises to be with us. ✅ Fruitfulness flows from God, not just effort.Only God can make our work truly thrive and satisfy.  Intersecting Faith & Life Are you busy building your own “house” while neglecting God’s? How can you intentionally make space for God this week—through rest, prayer, or obedience? What’s one step today to reorder your priorities toward Him? Further Reading John 15:1-8 Ecclesiastes 4:6 Isaiah 55 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Build the Lord’s House First  by Deidre Braley  Haggai 1:7-9: Thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider your ways. Go up to the hills and bring wood and build the house, that I may take pleasure in it and that I may be glorified, says the Lord. You looked for much, and behold, it came to little. And when you brought it home, I blew it away. Why? declares the Lord of hosts. Because of my house that lies in ruins, while each of you busies himself with his own house.  In 586 BCE, the nation of Israel officially fell to the Babylonian Empire. King Nebuchadnezzar and his cronies sacked the temple and carried many of Judah’s inhabitants back to Babylon, where they lived as exiles for nearly fifty years. But in 539 BCE something interesting happened: the power shifted to King Cyrus of the Persian Empire, and under this new ruler, the Israelite exiles were allowed—even encouraged—to return to Jerusalem and rebuild God’s temple.  At first, the returned exiles got right down to business with rebuilding. But before long, they began to experience threats from surrounding people groups. Under the weight of this opposition, work on the temple ceased, and for sixteen years, it continued to lay in ruins.  In 520 BCE, however, a prophet named Haggai began to rouse the spirits of the returned Israelites again. Through Haggai, the Lord gave the Jewish people a very clear message: it was time to start building his house again.  During their sixteen-year hiatus from reconstruction, it seems that the Jews had concerned themselves with seeking all the ordinary essentials for living: growing food, eating, drinking, dressing, working, and building homes for themselves. But as the Lord pointed out through Haggai, none of these pursuits had been as fruitful as they could have been. He said, “Consider your ways. You have sown much, and harvested little. You eat, but you never have enough; you drink, but you never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And he who earns wages does so to put them into a bag with holes” (1:5-7).  Have you felt like no matter how hard you work, it feels like your wages are going into a bag with holes? Or that no matter how earnestly you plant, you just seem to keep pulling up weeds? In my life, I’ve certainly experienced this type of fruitlessness—and it’s exhausting. Though it seems like we’re doing all the right things, at the end of the day we come up feeling empty and spent.  Now, this is where the world might hand us self-help books, or coach us on how to be more effective, or tell us to just work harder. But through Haggai, we learn that the answer to our fruitlessness is not to double down and do even more; rather, it is to shift our priorities. According to the Lord, his people’s frustrated efforts were a direct result of their misplaced priorities. Through Haggai, he said, “...my house…lies in ruins, while each of you busies himself with his own house” (1:9). While they had focused on providing for themselves, they had neglected to create a space for the Provider himself to dwell alongside them. They got so focused on the fruit that they forgot about the one who makes fruit grow in the first place. As a result, their efforts came to little.  Intersecting Faith & Life  Are you experiencing a sense of fruitlessness in your life? Do you feel that your efforts are constantly being frustrated, like you’re running in place while someone holds the back of your shirt? If so—is it possible that you, like the returned exiles, have gotten so focused on producing the fruits of a good life that you’ve forgotten to prioritize the One who actually makes them grow?  If the answer is ‘yes,’ then the next step is to ask God what type of space he would like you to make for him in your life.  God’s instruction for the Jewish people in response to their misaligned priorities was this: “Go up to the hills and bring wood and build the house, that I may take pleasure in it and that I may be glorified…” (Haggai 1:8). And when they had obeyed the Lord in this manner? He told them, “I am with you…” (Haggai 1:13). For you, making space for God might look less like creating a physical temple and more like entering in Sabbath rest, or setting aside time for intentional prayer each day, or being obedient to something that he’s been asking you to do.  It is seemingly ingrained in our human nature to forget that—above all things—the sustenance we need most is neither food nor drink, but rather God’s presence. Haggai reminds us that it is only when we prioritize making space for God in our lives that we will experience the satisfaction we so desire.  Further Reading  John 15:1-8  Ecclesiastes 4:6  Isaiah 55 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Ever tossed and turned at 4 a.m., stuck between two decisions or weighed down by life’s seemingly unchanging routine? You’re not alone—and more importantly, you’re not stuck without purpose. In today’s devotional, Sarah Frazer beautifully reframes those “stuck” seasons we all experience. Drawing wisdom from Psalm 25, she reminds us that even when we feel like we’re not moving forward, God is at work. He’s teaching, loving, leading, befriending, and ultimately saving us in ways we often can’t see at the time. What if this pause in your life isn’t punishment—but preparation? ✨ Key Takeaways ⏸️ “Stuck” doesn’t mean God has stopped working in you📖 God uses still seasons to teach us new or deeper truths💛 His love and forgiveness are steady—even when we feel like we’re failing🧭 Waiting can be God’s way of guiding us to the next step👥 God draws near as a friend when we need Him most 🔁 Intersecting Faith and Life How can you reach out to God right now and make Him your refuge in this waiting season? What would change if you stopped measuring your worth by productivity and started resting in God’s faithfulness? How have you seen God’s guidance in past seasons when you felt “stuck”?   💬 Let’s Reflect God’s faithfulness isn’t dependent on your performance, your progress, or your pace. Wherever you are right now—moving, waiting, or wondering—you are seen, loved, and led by a God who never gets stuck. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: God’s Faithfulness When We Are Stuck By Sarah Frazer Bible Reading: “To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.” Psalm 25:1 (ESV) Devotional My eyes were wide open but I couldn’t see in the dark. As I lay in bed, I glanced at the clock. 4am. With a sigh, I rolled over. Making a decision always keeps me awake at night. For hours my husband and I talked through the decision, looking at it from one angle and then another. We decided to pray about it and sleep on it. Praying was easy, sleeping was not.  I listened to my husband snore softly and envied his ability to just put off the thoughts for the morning. My heart struggled to find peace because I could see both sides and didn’t know which path to take.  Whether the decision is a big one or a small one, feeling stuck is not a good feeling. Sometimes we are forced to wait because life needs us to stay the course, even if we want to make a decision to move. When my children were very little my days felt like a constant repeat of the same day over and over. I felt like I wasn’t making “progress” at all.  My dream to write, create, and publish books was on hold. My spiritual life felt non-existent because time with God was put on the back burner. I didn’t have many friends and rarely left the house.  In all areas of my life I felt stuck. If you have found yourself in that position, it might be time to sit down, stop striving, and “be still,” as Psalm 46:10 says.  God often leads us to a place where we might feel “stuck” but actually, it is a place we need to be so that He can show us something about Himself. Over and over again, during seasons of my life where I didn’t feel like I was moving forward, God has remained faithful. It is actually God’s faithfulness that is brought into deeper clarity during times when we feel stuck.  Looking at Psalm 25 we see many areas where God is faithful and this faithfulness fuels us when we feel stuck. First of all, God is faithful to teach us His truth. In verses 4-5 the psalmist rejoices in the fact that even though he feels stuck, God is teaching him. Maybe our time of feeling “unproductive” or the fact that we aren’t really moving forward is actually a time where we learn new truths or are reminded of old truths pertaining to God. God is always faithful to teach us, no matter what season we find ourselves in.  God is also faithful to love and forgive us. The psalmist says that God’s faithful mercy and steadfast love are “from of old.” (Psalm 25:6-7) God’s love for us goes back to even before the foundation of the earth. (Ephesians 1:4) Although our lives feel like God might have left us, we can know that He has always and will always forgive us faithfully. 1 John 1:9 says that God is faithful to forgive.  Our God is also faithful to lead us. Sometimes that means to wait, but as you wait, be ready to move. God will tell you when and how to move. As we wait, we can know and rest in the fact that God is faithful to guide us through every season, even the waiting ones. (Psalm 25:8-10)  In Psalm 25:14 we read that God is faithful to be our friend. While we might feel stuck, we can get to know God. Our relationship with God can grow and mature as we learn more about who God is. He is faithful to us!  Finally, God is faithful to save us from our seasoning of waiting. God sees, and hears our sorrow. (Psalm 25:16-21) God is our comfort, our salvation, and hears us when we cry out to Him. No matter how much you feel stuck, you are not away from God and His plan for your life.  Intersecting Faith & Life: The end of Psalm 25 says, “I take refuge in you.” If you are in a season that feels like you aren’t moving forward, how can you reach out to God in prayer and seek Him as a  refuge?  Although you might look at your life and feel as if you have failed God, how does knowing His faithfulness isn’t based on your merits give you comfort today?  Further Reading: Lamenations 3:22-23 2 Thessalonians 3:3 Psalm 36:5 1 John 1:9 Hebrews 10:23     Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever faced something new—whether a trip, job, or big decision—and felt both excited and a little afraid? In today’s devotional, we’re reminded that no matter where we go or what we face, we’re never alone. God isn’t just sending us out—He’s going with us. Drawing from Psalm 139 and a personal story about traveling through the Middle East, Whitney Hopler unpacks how God’s presence is unshakable, even in unfamiliar places. Whether your next journey is physical, emotional, or spiritual, you can walk boldly into it knowing that the Creator of the universe is not just beside you—He’s already ahead of you. ✨ Key Takeaways 🗺️ God is already where you're going — and He’s not leaving your side🧳 New opportunities can feel uncertain, but His presence makes them possible🕊️ Whether you're in a foreign land or facing a new role, God travels with you👐 You are never out of reach from His hand—He holds you fast🚶 Courage grows when you trust that God walks every step with you 🔁 Intersecting Faith and Life What new thing is God nudging you toward? Are fear or uncertainty holding you back from stepping into it? How can you daily remind yourself that God is already present in the places you fear most? 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: God Goes with You By: Whitney Hopler  “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 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 139:7-10, NIV  Before our family took a trip I’d planned to the Middle East, a family member told me she was worried that we would be in danger there. She asked me to consider canceling the trip because of ongoing conflicts in that part of the world. But we went ahead with the trip. It was a pilgrimage I believed God was leading us to take. While we were there, we saw soldiers with guns in the streets, and we even saw smoke rising in the distance from an active conflict across a border. But we never worried that we weren't safe, because God had led us there – and even more importantly, God was with us there. Have you ever stood on the edge of a new opportunity, and felt a mix of excitement and fear? The unknown has a way of stirring up uncertainty. You may wonder if you’re truly ready to step into that opportunity. Maybe you sense God leading you to take a leap of faith, but you wonder if something will go wrong because you’re alone and unable to manage a situation on your own.  Psalm 139:7-10 encourages you with a powerful truth: You are never alone!  King David, who wrote Psalm 139, described noticing God’s presence in awe-inspiring ways. No matter where David thought of going, he knew God was already there. If he soared to the heavens, God was there. If he found himself in the deepest abyss, God was there. Even if he traveled to the farthest reaches of the sea, he knew God would still be there with him, as well.  God’s presence isn’t limited by space or time. There is no place too far, no environment too foreign, and no situation too overwhelming for God. Whether you find yourself in a busy city or in a remote wilderness, God will be there. If you visit a foreign country, someone who knows you well – your Heavenly Father – will be there. When you’re not traveling to a new physical place but are simply stepping into a new opportunity at work, church, or home, God will be there. God has already gone before you, preparing the way, and he will be with you in every step you take. You can count on the fact that God goes with you, anywhere and anytime! So, if you want to explore a new opportunity God is making possible – either far away on a trip, or locally through a new challenge at home, work, or church – don’t be afraid to go for it! When you travel, you won’t be alone. God’s Holy Spirit will be with you on the plane, in the car, on the train, and wherever you go. When you take on a new challenge nearby like a new project or role, God will be right beside you as you step into that opportunity. God doesn’t send you anywhere alone. He walks beside you, ahead of you, and even behind you, covering you in his love!  Even if you encounter unexpected challenges – like delays or obstacles – God will still be there. He is always available, ready to listen to your prayers and respond by giving you what you need in any situation. Just like Psalm 139 says, God’s hands will guide you and hold you fast. You’re in God’s hands, and there’s no better place to be.  So, what’s holding you back? Don’t let fear of the unknown prevent you from taking the journey God wants you to take. Step forward with the confidence that wherever you go, God goes with you!  Intersecting Faith and Life  As you consider how God goes with you wherever you go, reflect on these questions: What new opportunity do you sense God may be leading you to move into? Are you excited, afraid, or a mix of both emotions? When was a time that you experienced God’s presence in an unfamiliar or challenging place? How did that give you confidence and help you trust God there? How can you remind yourself daily that God goes with you wherever you go? Further Reading Deuteronomy 31:8 Joshua 1:9 Matthew 28:20 Romans 8:38-39 Isaiah 41:10 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Sometimes what we think we see clearly is actually being filtered through a distorted lens — whether it’s our perspective on life, suffering, or even God. In this episode, we reflect on spiritual blindness, drawing from a powerful story about a child’s first experience seeing trees clearly — and how it mirrors our own journey from blurry spiritual sight to eternal clarity. With Jesus as our healer and restorer, we’re reminded that it’s not just our eyes that need correction — it’s our hearts. Through Scripture and real-life parallels, today’s devotional invites you to shift your gaze from what is temporary to what truly lasts: the unseen and eternal promises of God. ✨ Key Takeaways 👓 Spiritual blindness often goes unnoticed — until we truly “see”🌲 Our perception is shaped by what we focus on — and that can be distorted by the world💡 Jesus restores sight both physically and spiritually🕊️ Shifting our eyes from the temporal to the eternal brings peace, perspective, and hope⏳ Today is a gift — how would you live differently if you saw it through eternity’s lens? 🔁 Intersecting Faith and Life What in your life are you seeing through a blurry lens right now? Are you focusing more on what’s fading or on what’s everlasting? How would your choices shift if you saw today as a stepping stone toward eternity? 📚 Further Reading 2 Corinthians 4 John 9:35–41 Mark 8:22–25 Matthew 6:22–23 Hebrews 12:2   🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: What Do You See? By Megan J. Conner “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Cor. 4:18 (NIV) One day, while riding in the car with my mother-in-law, she shared a story with me from her younger parenting years, when she unexpectedly discovered her only daughter needed glasses. Apparently, at the time, my sister-in-law was so accustomed to the vision she was born with that it took years for anyone to recognize her eyesight was rather poor. It was all she had known, so she compensated for her unrealized lack of clarity without much notice. Once her challenges were revealed, she was taken to an eye doctor and properly diagnosed. Glasses were ordered, and they waited anxiously for the frames to come in. After the fitting was complete, my mother-in-law buckled her young daughter back into the car, and they headed home.  As they were driving, she heard from the backseat, “Mommy… is that what trees look like?!” All this time, her vision had been so blurred, she had no idea trees were comprised of individual leaves.   Sometimes, it can be exactly the same for us. What we believe is seen with clarity is actually viewed through a distorted lens. The Bible is full of literal and metaphorical references to blindness. There are countless stories where individuals are plagued with this physical limitation. One example can be found in the gospel of Mark. “They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he had spit on the man’s eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, ‘Do you see anything?’ He looked up and said, ‘I see people; they look like trees walking around.’ Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly.”  Mark 8:22-25 (NIV) Through this miraculous work, Jesus grants the blind man the gift of literal sight, demonstrating His restorative power in this world. However, there are also several biblical examples referencing those who are spiritually sightless. John shares another version of this same healing account in his gospel, followed by an investigation conducted by the Pharisees. During His interaction with the religious leaders of the day, Jesus declared their souls were darkened and lacked sight. “Jesus said, ’For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.’ Some Pharisees who were with him heard him say this and asked, ‘What? Are we blind too?’ Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.” John 9:35-41 (NIV) Though invisible to the naked eye, spiritual blindness can be more detrimental than the complete loss of physical eyesight.  When faced with the severity of sin’s effects, Jesus challenged listeners to gouge out their own eyes if their vision was drawing them into spiritual darkness during his Sermon on the Mount in Matt. 5:29. Sounds a bit overdramatic to our modern-day senses, right? But Jesus is highlighting the value of the eternal versus the temporal. We all have mortal bodies. One day, they will pass away.  So, while we may struggle with aging, illness, or other limitations on earth, ultimately, our physical beings will pass away. There is nothing any of us can do to prevent that outcome. However, our spirits will endure. They are eternally precious. They will never pass away. Doesn’t that truth shift our perspectives?  When Paul shares our key scripture in today’s devotional from 2 Corinthians, he calls his readers to patiently endure and hold on to courage while encountering worldly suffering. He exhorts them to look beyond their “light and momentary afflictions” towards that which endures beyond time – to look towards eternity. When we lift up our eyes to heaven, a new light shines upon our difficult or undesirable circumstances.  For there is where we find hope.  It is there we see a promised home and future. Let us “…fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Cor. 4:18 (NIV) Intersecting Faith & Life: Have you been struggling to see the forest through the trees in your life circumstances? How does shifting your focus from the temporal to the eternal inspire hope or offer peace?  One of the practices that dramatically changed my fixation on that which is fading away was considering how I would handle today if I knew it was my final day on this planet. Would I spend it obsessing and worrying about all of the things I cannot control or wallowing in my perceived lack instead of recognizing my blessings? No, I would treasure moments with the ones I love most and celebrate the gift of the present while focusing on an eternity spent with the Lord in the future.  How will you change the way you see the gift of today? Further Reading: 2 Cor. 4 John 9 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

we dive into a direct and deeply reflective question Jesus asked a man who had been unwell for 38 years: “Do you want to get well?” This isn’t just about physical healing — it’s about soul healing too. Many of us know what needs to change in our spiritual lives, but instead of action, we offer excuses. Like the man at the pool, we may have valid challenges — but that doesn't mean we're powerless. ✨ Key Takeaways ✅ Excuses feel safe, but they keep us stuck✅ Jesus meets us in our stuck places — but He invites us to move✅ Spiritual growth isn’t passive — it takes intention, repetition, and surrender✅ Time with God is never wasted — it's what fuels real transformation✅ Intimacy with God requires space, silence, and a commitment to be present 🔁 Intersecting Faith and Life What excuses have you been making that are stunting your spiritual growth? Are there rhythms in your day you can repurpose for time with God (your commute, morning routine, evening wind-down)? Who can walk alongside you and help keep you spiritually accountable? 📚 Further Reading Proverbs 16:9 James 4:8 Matthew 6:33 Psalm 46:10 Romans 12:1–2 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Do You Want to Be Well? “When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?” John 5:6 “You should go to the doctor.” I urged a friend to go to the doctor since he hadn't had any blood work or a wellness checkup. He needed to maintain his physical health, including having an annual checkup and blood work. When the blood work returned that he had some areas he needed to improve, he made excuses. He didn't have time to make a healthy dinner. His job didn't allow him to have a break to go to the gym. He didn't need medication; he could fix his issues on his own. Excuse after excuse abounded. Although he did tweak his diet, it wasn't enough to significantly improve his numbers. After one try, he gave up.  Unfortunately, this is quite common among people. Jesus saw this in his day. A man who had hung out at the pool for a long time made every excuse for not getting well. Because he was blind, it was difficult for him to get to the pool alone.  But he could have easily asked someone else for help. He could have someone bring the water to him. Someone could have created a way to carry him to the pool. This is why Jesus asked him this poignant question. So many of us know what to do during spiritual growth, but few do the work required to grow in that area.  We often fuel our prayer time with excuses rather than the hard work and dedication it takes to grow in the Lord truly. Excuses can sound like: I have a stressful job, so I don't have time to read my Bible. I get home too late from work to cook a healthy dinner.  The Lord can heal me instantaneously; I don't have to care for my body.  I prayed while I was on my ride to work. That's all I have time for. It's these excuses that keep us from actual spiritual growth. Jesus went to the man. He didn't allow his excuses to prevent him from healing him completely. While it is true that Jesus comes to us in our time of need, we must work to grow spiritually. And we must read the Bible more than once a week. Weekly church attendance is not enough to supplement our spiritual walk. We not only need to pray, but we also need to stay silent and be ready to hear his still, small voice.  Do you make excuses when it comes to your spiritual walk? Do you justify why you don't read the Bible often? Do you tell yourself you don't have time to pray and hear God's voice? We are all motivated by certain desires. If we're not careful, these desires for money, power, fame, possessions, or anything else will quickly rule our lives. Soon, the necessary spiritual work to increase our growth will fall by the wayside as we aim to chase after all the worldly things of life.  Analyze your spiritual walk. Where can you cut precious time to spend with the Lord in your schedule? Can you turn off the television at the end of the night? Can you pray when you first get up in the morning? When you arise, dedicate your day to the Lord. Ask him to go before you in every area. Ask him not to allow you to get too distracted by life. Allow him to keep you focused on the work you are equipped to do.  The more you practice prayer with God, the more intimate you'll become. If you want to be intimate with God, you must make space for it. Stop making excuses and dedicate your time to the Lord. Let him guide and direct your steps.  You may be surprised that you are more productive during the day than you thought, but you are busy doing things you never would have anticipated because God is directing your steps. Father, help us stop making excuses about our spiritual growth. Allow your Holy Spirit to penetrate our hearts, transform us physically, emotionally, and mentally, and allow the spiritual growth that results to allow us to exemplify more of Christ. Amen. Intersecting Faith and Life What is one step you can take today to increase your intimacy with God?  Are there people who can help move you further in your walk with God? Further Reading Proverbs 16:9 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

we’re reminded through Psalm 147:1-5 that God sees the brokenhearted, binds their wounds, and lovingly gathers the outcast. His love doesn't discard — it restores. Healing might take time, but you’re never walking through the process alone. ✨ Key Takeaways 💡 God gathers the outcast — you are never beyond His reach or concern💡 He binds up wounds that others can't see and that you may carry silently💡 Jesus moves toward the rejected, never away from them (John 9:35)💡 Healing from deep relational hurt often takes time, but God walks with you each step💡 God's love and faithfulness are rooted in His character, not your past 🌿 Intersecting Faith & Life Have past wounds distorted how you view God’s love for you? What truths from Scripture can you speak over your emotions when feelings of rejection or shame rise up? Could journaling through key verses about God's love and pursuit help reshape how you see yourself in His eyes? What would it look like to let God into those places you’ve long kept closed? 📖 Further Reading Jeremiah 31:1–14 | Romans 8:1–4, 31–39 | Isaiah 61:1–3 | John 9:1–38 | 2 Corinthians 5:17 💬 Join the Conversation Have you experienced God’s healing in a season of emotional or relational pain? Your story can be a lifeline for someone else. Share with us @LifeAudioNetwork or on Crosswalk.com — and let’s keep encouraging each other to trust the God who gathers, heals, and restores. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Praise the Lord!For it is good to sing praises to our God;For it is pleasant and praise is beautiful.2 The Lord builds up Jerusalem;He gathers the outcasts of Israel.3 He heals the brokenheartedAnd binds up their [e]wounds.4 He counts the number of the stars;He [f]gives names to all of them.5 Great is our Lord and abundant in strength;His understanding is [g]infinite (Psalm 147:1-5, NAS). When I first read this passage, particularly verse two, it hit deep and brought me to tears. After an intensely painful year that revealed some significant cracks in some of my closest relationships, exacerbated some of my unhealed wounds, and intensified remnants of dysfunction with me, I sought help from a therapist. With her help, I came to recognize ways in which I became the scapegoat in my family of origin. That role, and circumstances it created, caused me to feel perpetually rejected and abandoned. I felt like the unwanted, discarded child left to navigate life alone.  In times of pain and stress, those old wounds, and the lies attached to them, pushed to the surface. This used to cause me to react from a place of brokenness, rather than empowered by grace.  But I’m no longer the throw away kid because I belong to the God who gathers the outcast. While the Psalmist was likely referring to God’s people, once exiled to Babylon, his words reveal a powerful truth regarding our Savior’s heart. He sees when others treat us poorly and as if we lack worth. He sees the shame lurking in our souls and that holds us captive. He knows precisely how deep every cruel statement and every hurtful act cut. And He moves toward us in our pain. He seeks us out and draws us close.  I’m reminded of an event recorded in John 9. To paraphrase, one day, Jesus encountered and healed a man born blind. This miracle left everyone amazed. Astounded, they brought him to the religious leaders who questioned him as to how he’d received his sight. After a tense conversation that probably felt more like an inquisition, the Pharisees declared, “You were steeped in sin at birth …” (John 9:34a, NIV). They basically called him cursed by God, implying that he had deserved his blindness.  But notice verse 35: “Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” (NIV). Jesus sought the rejected man out and invited him into an intimate, life-giving relationship with the perfectly loving, always present, eternally faithful Savior.  Because again, the Lord gathers the outcasts. Then, as we rest in His strong yet tender embrace, His Spirit within us heals and binds up our wounds. His love makes us whole. Granted, this rarely occurs instantly, or quickly for that matter. Often, His reparation work takes a lifetime. But today’s passage assures us that we don’t have to remain stuck in our brokenness. We don’t have to walk through life feeling like an outcast. We can receive the healing we need to become all God created us to be and to do all He’s called us to do.  Intersecting Life and Faith Those of us who grew up feeling unvalued, unseen, and unwanted can unknowingly project those states into our present relationships, including with God. The unhealed places within us can distort our perception, making it hard to trust and receive God’s steadfast love. When we land in that lonely place, may we prayerfully reflect upon passages like today’s. Not so that we can deny or suppress our feelings but rather, so that we can inform our emotions with truth.  Regardless of how we feel, this is truth:  God loves us with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3). God’s faithfulness toward us is not dependent on our faithfulness toward Him. Rather, it’s rooted in His unchanging character (Romans 5:8, 20). The Lord pursues us, always and forever (Ezekiel 34:11; Isaiah 65:1-3). Our Father longs to heal our most wounded places, and does so as we yield to Him (2 Corinthians 5:17; Isaiah 61:1-2). Our Redeemer can rebuild what sin has shattered and replace the ashes in our lives with beauty (Isaiah 61:3) If you’re struggling with a fear of abandonment or shame that causes you to feel distant from God and doubt His constant and unconditional love, consider journaling on the verses just referenced. Ask God to help your soul to receive those words and to use them to heal your most wounded places.  Further Reading: Jeremiah 31:1-14 Romans 8:1-4, 31-39 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Aaron D’Anthony Brown challenges us to reflect honestly on how well we really know God. True intimacy with Him isn’t just about worship on Sundays — it’s about staying close when life feels upside down. Knowing God deeply means choosing Him in every season, especially the hard ones. ✨ Key Takeaways 💡 Saying we know God is different than truly trusting Him in trials💡 Our faith can grow cold if we stop praying, reading, and staying connected to God💡 Knowing God requires consistent relationship — not just when life feels good💡 Scripture helps us learn God’s heart and equips us for seasons of doubt💡 Reminders of truth (verses, prayers, routines) help us return to God when we wander 🌿 Intersecting Faith & Life When was the last time you felt close to God? What was different about that season? How can you build rhythms into your life — like daily prayer or scripture reading — that keep your relationship with God strong? What truths do you need to write down or post somewhere to keep your mind focused on who God is? How might preparing spiritually during “good times” help you stand firm when hard times come? 📖 Further Reading Psalm 27:4 | Romans 5:8 | Jeremiah 29:11 | Hebrews 10:23 | John 15:4 💬 Join the Conversation What’s one way you’ve learned to stay connected to God when life feels heavy? Share your experience with us @LifeAudioNetwork or on Crosswalk.com — your story might encourage someone walking through their own valley. 🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer 🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews Full Transcript Below: Knowing God By Aaron D’Anthony Brown“But even the hairs of your head have all been counted. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Matthew 10:30-31, CSB) How well do you know God? Your immediate answer might be something approving but give the question some thoughtful consideration. There’s a young woman I know, a college student, who grew up in church. Her father was a preacher, and her mother was the church’s librarian. She read plenty and sang plenty. If you asked her at the time, she would have told you that she knew God. Not only that, but her relationship with Him was also seemingly tight. Then time passed. She applied for college and did not get into the music school she wanted. Other things started to happen. Other bad things. Suddenly, she was on a path she never requested. Ever since, the woman who once knew God now often only mentions His name as an exclamation or joke. Time after time, I’ve witnessed believers much like her who see themselves as having a profoundly deep relationship with God, and then something terrible happens, and that faith vanishes. I’ve noticed this trend even within myself. We claim we know God, but when crap hits the fan, we forget who He is. We stop trusting, stop praying, stop hoping in the one who gives peace. From there, we turn to our vices, idols, and fellow sinners. While we may like to say we know God well, a more apt answer would be not well enough. If we knew God well, why wouldn’t we always trust Him? He’s always good, isn’t He? Thankfully, there are sure ways to amend this flawed mindset.  Intersecting Faith & Life: Finding intimacy with God means knowing Him both when life is great and when life feels terrible. Let’s devise some practical steps to put that idea into practice. Pray Without Ceasing Scripture tells us to pray always. If nothing can separate us from God’s love and He always wants a relationship with us, then there is no good reason to ever stop praying. Prayer is how we communicate, give thanks, make petitions, and in essence, draw closer to Him. Think about your relationships with other people. When you stop talking to friends regularly, there’s a chance that you will grow apart and, at the very least, you won’t think about them as often. We’re not on this Earth to think about God a little or only when convenient. Knowing God is a full-time activity, and prayer helps establish the routine.  Read Scripture Taking time to read your Bible will not only make you wiser but will teach you God’s character. From the beginning of the book to the end, we are given insight into what God loves and what He hates, what He expects us to do, and what He wants us to avoid. What we also discover are truths about what knowing God actually means. Truths that help us commit to the act and remind us of the benefits. Remind Yourself If you’re a believer, then the idea of knowing God will seem appealing at face value, and most of the time, that may be the case. However, one way to prepare for those seasons of adversity is to have a game plan in place. During those times, knowing God won’t seem as appealing. Neither will prayer nor reading the Bible. That’s when we forget how good God is, and we stray away from our callings. While not good, that’s certainly normal. We’re humans and sinful. Yet, regardless of how or why we forget, the solution is the same. Remember. We can remind ourselves of truth by studying God’s Word and committing verses to memory. Write them down. Post them somewhere. Set alerts on your phone. Read the Bible with someone and quiz one another.  The more we consistently know, the less we will forget. Think back to being in school. When you’re going through the motions of homework and quizzes, the information is ingrained. When education stops, and you’re no longer putting things into practice, that’s when concepts start to fade. Let’s not allow that to happen in our relationship with God. Instead, let’s strive to know Him daily and throughout every season. We won’t regret that decision. Further Reading: Psalm 27:4 Romans 5:8 Jeremiah 29:11 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.