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    Religion & Spirituality

    The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

    Are you a Christian looking for a daily devotional podcast to encourage, inspire, and convict you in your walk with Christ? 7 days a week, The Crosswalk.com Daily Devotional Podcast offers wisdom and insight for applying Biblical truths to the ups and downs of everyday life. Let’s study the Bible together and through the experiences of other believers, learn how to apply the Word of God to our lives.

    Here’s just some of what we cover in The Crosswalk Daily Devotional Podcast:

    ☕️ Why the Tongue Can’t Be Tamed (And What to Do about It)
    ☕️ The Quickest Way to an Attitude Adjustment
    ☕️ Your Birthday: The Most and Least Important Day of Your Life
    ☕️ Noticing God’s Blessings in the Hardest Moments of Life
    ☕️ One of the Sneakiest Lies Satan Is Telling the Church
    ☕️ How to Push Through the Weariness of Prayer
    ☕️ 3 Steps to Take When Facing Temptation
    ☕️ What to Remember during a Stressful Election Year

    If you love what you’re listening to on the podcast, be sure to check out our companion devotional at https://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/crosswalk-devo/. 

    Advertise

    Copyright: © Copyright Crosswalk.com

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    Latest Episodes:
    How God’s Grace Breaks the Cycle of Shame May 23, 2026
    Show notes

    Nehemiah 8:9-10 reveals a powerful truth for believers struggling with regret, guilt, and shame: God’s grace is stronger than our failures. In this devotional, Jennifer Slattery explores how shame often traps Christians in cycles of self-condemnation, replaying past mistakes and fearing they will never truly change. Yet God does not call His children to remain crushed beneath shame. Instead, He invites them to receive His forgiveness, walk in restoration, and find strength through His joy.

    Using the story of Israel’s return from exile, this devotional highlights how the people grieved over the consequences of their sin while also experiencing the overwhelming grace and provision of God. Though the rubble of brokenness remained, God wanted His people to rebuild from a place of hope rather than condemnation. In the same way, believers today can trust that God is patiently healing, transforming, and restoring them through His grace.

    Highlights

    • Shame often keeps believers trapped in cycles of fear and self-condemnation.
    • Self-awareness is an important step toward healing and spiritual growth.
    • God’s grace meets believers in the middle of their brokenness and failures.
    • Nehemiah 8 reminds us that “the joy of the Lord” is our strength.
    • Biblical joy comes from knowing God is present, forgiving, and restoring.
    • God does not want His children rebuilding their lives from shame.
    • Healing and transformation often happen gradually through God’s grace.

    Do you want to listen ad-free?

    When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!

    Sign Up Today!

    Full Transcript Below:

    How God’s Grace Breaks the Cycle of Shame
    By: Jennifer Slattery

    Bible Reading:
    Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, “This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.
    Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” - Nehemiah 8:9-10

    Do you ever lie in bed, replaying your every unkind word or hurtful deed from the day? Do memories of past sins and regrets seize your mind and steal your peace? Do you find yourself looking back with sorrow at the damage your unfiltered words, angry outbursts, or triggered responses caused, longing for a do-over, but also fearful that you’ll forever fall into these unhelpful patterns?

    You’re not alone. People often state that the hardest person to forgive is ourselves. There’s truth to that, likely because we so long to live and love like Jesus. Yet, we often fall short, and not for lack of trying.

    The other day, I sat with a friend broken by a relational conflict she feared would irrevocably fracture the connection she’d been working to build. Her voice quivered as she said, “I don’t know why I act this way. In the moment, my perspective feels valid, and all I can see is how the other person hurt me. And suddenly, I question their character and intent. Self-isolating thoughts start playing through my mind, like, “She doesn’t really care about you.” “She wants something from you.” “He thinks you’re too much.” “You’re annoying him.” “She’s judging you.” “Why work through this when she’s just going to bail on the relationship anyway?”

    My friend’s hunched shoulders and the dark shadows beneath her eyes gave evidence to her sleepless night and the heavy weight of shame she carried.

    A tear slid down her cheek. With a deep breath, she brushed it away. “But then, later,” she said, “I see that I overreacted and made things worse. I see the pattern, but I don’t know how to break it.”

    Have you been there? The journey toward wholeness and holiness is rarely comfortable or quick. Yes, God holds the power to transform us with a whisper or glance. In my experience, however, He molds my soul gradually, alerting me to an issue, allowing me to see the fallout of my choices, to grieve my brokenness and sin, before He reveals the steps toward victory.

    Speaking from experience, I shared a statement that encouraged me when I was just beginning my healing journey. “Self-awareness is the first step to change. You can’t heal what you don’t see or won’t acknowledge.”

    Listening, my friend gave a slight nod and offered a half-laugh, half-huff. “Ignorance is bliss?” she asked.

    To which I replied, “Temporarily, perhaps. But it’s often when we’re staring at the rubble we’ve helped create that we’re most able to see, and rest in, God’s all-encompassing grace. To gain strength from His grace.”

    That’s the message today’s passage conveys. Seventy years after what scholars call the Babylonian exile, an event caused by ancient Israel’s long-standing spiritual rebellion, the Lord brought them back to their homeland to rebuild what their sin had destroyed. He sent them with His abundant provision—gold, silver, animals, priests to lead their faith, and numerous workers to repair Jerusalem’s walls and their sacred temple.

    Scripture tells us that:

    “The whole company numbered 42,360, besides their 7,337 menservants and maidservants; and they also had 245 men and women singers. There were 736 horses, 245 mules, 435 camels and 6,720 donkeys” (Ezra 2:66, NIV).

    In short, the Lord showered them with blessings and tangible evidence of His favor. And they celebrated. They celebrated the work He enabled them to do, the provisions He provided, and the forgiveness He granted.

    But this didn’t erase the grief they felt at all that had been lost. The Scripture their religious leaders read brought praise… and a deep awareness of their sin and all it had cost.

    Seeing their weeping, Ezra, Nehemiah, and the Lord’s priests spoke today’s passage, encouraging them to receive and find joy in God’s grace.

    Biblical joy goes much deeper than a temporary emotion based on our circumstances. It’s the deep awareness of God’s grace—knowing He’s with us, transforming us, rewriting our story, and working all things, our greatest failures included, for our good and His glory.

    This might not fix the damage we’ve caused. The ancient Israelites still had to clear away the rubble that once formed their homeland, to rebuild the fractured walls and restore the destroyed temple.

    But God wanted them to do so as His beloved, empowered, and absolved children, not from a place of shame.

    Shame is exhausting, heavy, and defeating. Grace brings hope, joy, and strength. It lifts the burdens we carry and plants us more firmly in God’s firm yet gentle embrace.

    Intersecting Life & Faith:

    I sometimes wonder if shame functions as a defense mechanism or a subconscious fail-safe. Is there a part of us that believes our inner critic protects us from future harm by keeping our unwanted behaviors in check?

    It’s also a powerful tool of the enemy strategically lobbed to hold us captive.

    Regardless, through Christ, we always have a way out. Our sins don’t repel Him; instead, He draws close, with arms open wide—nailed to the cross. We honor the sacrifice He made by learning to receive, in our innermost wounded places, the forgiveness for which He paid such a high price.

    That takes time, healing, prayer, and regularly connecting with Him; sitting in His presence. But the more we do so, take in His truth, and rest in His love, the weaker our shame, the greater our joy, and the more enduring our strength.

    If you battle shame over a present struggle or past sins, express this to God, and ask Him to break your shame. Then, keep your soul oriented to Him, your spiritual ears attuned to His voice, and your figurative feet ready to follow, trusting Him to lead you step by step, in His perfect timing.

    Further Reading:
    2 Corinthians 7:910
    Isaiah 57:14-15
    Habakkuk 3:19

    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.


    What Kind of Seeds Will You Plant? May 22, 2026
    Show notes

    Galatians 6:7-8 reminds believers that every word, action, and habit plants seeds that will eventually produce a harvest. In this devotional, Whitney Hopler uses a personal gardening story to illustrate the spiritual principle of sowing and reaping. Just as planting the wrong cucumber seeds led to an unexpected bitter harvest, the choices Christians make each day shape the direction and outcome of their lives and relationships.

    This devotional encourages believers to carefully examine the seeds they are planting through their speech, attitudes, priorities, and daily decisions. Seeds of selfishness, bitterness, and careless behavior eventually produce painful consequences, while seeds planted through the guidance of the Holy Spirit lead to peace, kindness, spiritual growth, and life-giving relationships. God calls His people to intentionally plant seeds that reflect His character and trust Him for a fruitful harvest in His perfect timing.

    Highlights

    • Every word and action plants seeds that will eventually grow.
    • Galatians 6 teaches the principle of sowing and reaping.
    • Careless words can produce bitterness and damaged relationships.
    • Habits and priorities shape the future harvest of our lives.
    • Planting for selfish gain leads to regret and devastation.
    • Planting through the Holy Spirit produces peace, kindness, and self-control.
    • Spiritual growth often happens slowly before visible fruit appears.

    Do you want to listen ad-free?

    When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!

    Sign Up Today!

    Full Transcript Below:

    What Kind of Seeds Will You Plant?
    By: Whitney Hopler

    Bible Reading:
    “Make no mistake, God is not mocked. A person will harvest what they plant. Those who plant only for their own benefit will harvest devastation from their selfishness, but those who plant for the benefit of the Spirit will harvest eternal life from the Spirit.” – Galatians 6:7-8, CEB

    When I first started gardening, the first seed packets I bought were for cucumbers. Our family enjoyed eating cucumbers, and I’d heard that cucumbers were easy to grow. Buying a bunch of cucumber seeds and planting them seemed to be a “no-brainer” decision in the spring. But in the summer, when our cucumbers appeared, I was shocked to see that they didn’t look – or taste – like anything I expected. Instead of the smooth and sweet cucumbers I’d hoped to slice up for our salads, I’d grown what seemed to be cucumber monsters. They were huge, covered in sharp spikes. Biting into their thick, spiky skin was challenging, and when we did, we got a bitter taste that was quite simply gross! It turned out that I’d planted a variety of cucumbers that were usually made into pickles before being eaten – not even close to the variety I usually bought from the grocery store to eat fresh. I wish I had paid more attention to exactly what kind of seeds I planted.

    Seeds always grow into something. That’s exactly what the Bible points out in Galatians 6:7-8, which compares people’s words and actions to seeds. The choices we all make every day are planting something that will grow to become something that we – and God – either like or don’t like.

    You plant seeds with your words. The way you speak to your spouse, your children, your coworkers, or even yourself matters. Harsh, careless words plant seeds of pain that can distance you from people. Gentle, encouraging words plant seeds of trust that can lead to closer relationships. You may think a careless comment is small and unimportant, but seeds don’t look impressive at first either. Over time, though, they grow into something much bigger.

    You also plant seeds with your actions. The priorities you set and the habits you practice day by day will all grow into results you’ll eventually see. If you consistently choose whatever works best for you without considering the other people in your life, you’re planting seeds for your own benefit, just like this Bible passage describes. Those seeds may promise you easy results, but they often grow into situations that leave you feeling bitterness and regret.

    On the other hand, if you seek God’s guidance for your decisions, you’re planting for the benefit of the Spirit. Those choices may not be easy. In fact, they can be challenging to make. But God promises that the choices you make along with him will lead to good results.

    There’s often a gap between planting and harvesting. That gap can fool you. During that time, you might start to think that it doesn’t matter what you say or do, because you can’t yet see anything bad happening from your choices. But growth is happening under the surface. Roots are forming, and a direction is being set.

    So, pay attention now to the words and actions you’re choosing. Just like with the cucumbers, it’s much easier to choose the right seeds at the beginning than to deal with a bitter harvest later. Before you speak, you can pause and think about what might grow from your words. Before you act, you can consider what might grow from what you decide to do.

    When you “plant for the benefit of the Spirit,” you line yourself up with God’s life-giving work. You can then start to see fruit like peace, patience, kindness, and self-control growing in you and around you. As a result, your life will taste less bitter, and you can taste the goodness God wants you to enjoy.

    Today – and every day – you have a choice. You’re holding seed packets in your hands that will grow into something, depending on the words and actions you choose. So, choose carefully. Ask God to help you plant what leads to life. Then trust that, in time, the harvest will come and you’ll see that your decisions were worth making.

    Intersecting Faith & Life:

    As you consider what you want to grow in your life, reflect on these questions:

    • What kinds of seeds have you been planting recently with your words and actions?
    • Are there any habits in your life that might lead to a bitter harvest if they continue?
    • Where do you sense God inviting you to plant for the benefit of the Spirit instead of yourself?
    • What’s a conversation or situation coming up where you can choose to plant better seeds now than you have in the past?
    • How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit to plant the best seeds now for a good future harvest in a relationship with someone you love?

    Further Reading:
    Hosea 10:12
    James 3:18
    Galatians 5:22-23
    Matthew 12:34
    Proverbs 18:21

    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.


    Created for Community May 21, 2026
    Show notes

    Genesis 2:18 reveals an important truth about God’s design for humanity: we were created for community. In this devotional, Laura Bailey explores the beauty and difficulty of relationships, especially within Christian friendships and church communities. While human relationships can be messy, painful, and disappointing, God never intended believers to walk through life alone. From the very beginning, God established companionship and community as part of His good design for His people.

    This devotional reminds Christians that although conflict, hurt, and misunderstanding are inevitable in relationships, isolation is not the answer. Throughout Scripture, from Adam and Eve to the early church in Acts, God consistently calls His people to worship, grow, encourage, and persevere together. Community strengthens faith, provides accountability, and reflects the love of Christ as believers extend grace and forgiveness to one another despite imperfections.

    Highlights

    • God created people to live in relationship and community.
    • Genesis 2:18 shows that isolation was never part of God’s design.
    • Christian friendships and church relationships can sometimes be painful and messy.
    • Believers are called to extend grace, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
    • Community provides encouragement, accountability, and spiritual growth.
    • The early church thrived through worship and life together.
    • Walking away from Christian community is not God’s solution to hurt.

    Do you want to listen ad-free?

    When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!

    Sign Up Today!

    Full Transcript Below:

    Created for Community

    By: Laura Bailey

    Bible Reading:
    The Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” - Genesis 2:18 NIV
    I could tell by the slump in my daughter’s shoulders as she walked towards the car that something was wrong. The slamming of the vehicle door, accompanied by an aggressive sigh, confirmed my suspicions. While it is not unusual for my middle school daughter to offer little to our conversation on our ride home, today, it was radio silent.

    As I turned into the driveway, I told her we weren't going inside until we talked about what was going on. “I am done with friends! I am better off alone!” she exclaimed. My momma’s heart immediately dropped. For many years, we avoided friendship drama, but I knew sooner or later it would weasel its way into our lives. As she regaled the events of the day, I nodded my head in solidarity, held her in my arms, and tried to offer ( to no avail, raising a middle school daughter is tough!) words of comfort.
    Holding back tears, she asked, “Mom, why would they act this way? They are supposed to be my friends, my Christian friends.” Whew – while the surface-level answer is not complicated to diagnose, the root cause of conflict is a bit harder to digest.

    I think we’ve all been there. I am 40 years old, and I still ask the same question. Relationships are complicated, no matter what stage of life you're in. The reality is that our relationships with other believers are, unfortunately, some of the most difficult. And, if I am honest, I’ve had the same sentiment as my daughter, “I don’t need these people, I am better off alone.” Especially when it comes to the church.
    Likely, you don’t need to be convinced of the messiness of worshiping with saints who act more like sinners. Like most things, it is easier for us to focus on the negative aspects of our churches than on the positives. During the season I mentioned above, while there were people in the church walls who caused me affliction, there were also members who brought me great joy, comfort, and encouragement.
    While I don’t excuse the harm caused by fellow Christians, I must also acknowledge that I’ve intentionally and unintentionally inflicted hurt on my church family, too. And just as I hoped they’d give me the opportunity for forgiveness and reconciliation, I need to do the same. As we say in the south, “don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.”

    Simply put, mess and all, life is better together.

    We see in Genesis 1 that God declares His creation “good” (Genesis 1:25). However, when He created man, He proclaims humanity is “very good” (Genesis 1:31). Humans are the climax of the creation story, the most cherished possession of the Lord. Created in God’s image, we are the reflection of our Creator, and it’s not just good, but very good. However, God looks at Adam's singleness and declares, “it is not good for man to be alone ( Genesis 2:18). What was God’s solution: a companion, an Ezer in the original Hebrew, a helpmate for Adam.

    With Adam and Eve’s union, we see the first example of human community; however, the idea of living in a group is prevalent throughout Scripture, as exemplified by the Jewish Nation, a people set apart by God. (Exodus 19:3-6) While they had an individual responsibility to keep these commands, God is addressing the collective body of the Israelites. Think of it as a built-in accountability. God wanted the Israelites to understand that they needed each other, not just to meet their physical needs, or make life easier, but to strengthen and encourage one another in the faith.

    Then, in the New Testament, we see examples of early Christians gathered in community in Acts 2:1-4 and Acts 2:42-47. Christians gathered while the Spirit rested on them individually; corporately, they worshiped and praised the Lord. And the early church grew because of its strong ties to living in community and corporate worship.
    As tempting as it might be to abandon corporate worship, walking away from community worship is not the answer. God created humans for community; we need each other. Let’s embrace the imperfect body of believers as we stand united in the perfectness of Christ.
    Intersecting Faith & Life:
    Have you experienced the messiness of human relationships? How does knowing God created you for community help you to forgive offenses and embrace imperfect people with grace and love?
    Further Reading:

    Hebrews 10:24-25

    What Does the Bible Say About Love in Action?

    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.


    Nothing Can Separate Us from God May 20, 2026
    Show notes

    Romans 8:33-35 offers powerful reassurance that nothing can separate believers from the love of God through Jesus Christ. In this devotional, Vivian Bricker reflects on how struggles, suffering, illness, anxiety, and difficult seasons can sometimes make Christians question God’s love and presence. Yet Romans 8 reminds believers that God’s love is not dependent on circumstances. Even in hardship, Jesus is interceding for His people, and no trial, fear, or challenge can remove them from His care.

    This devotional encourages Christians to remain grounded in Scripture and to continually return to God’s Word for truth and hope. While life in a fallen world includes pain and suffering, believers can trust that God has not abandoned them. His love remains constant through every battle, and His promises provide strength, comfort, and peace in seasons of uncertainty and struggle.

    Highlights

    • Romans 8 declares that nothing can separate believers from God’s love.
    • Jesus Christ continually intercedes for His people.
    • Difficult seasons do not mean God has abandoned us.
    • Suffering and hardship are part of living in a fallen world.
    • Daily time in Scripture strengthens faith and renews perspective.
    • God’s love remains constant through illness, anxiety, and hardship.
    • Believers can find hope and security in God’s unchanging promises.

    Do you want to listen ad-free?

    When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!

    Sign Up Today!

    Full Transcript Below:

    Nothing Can Separate Us from God
    By Vivian Bricker

    Bible Reading:
    “Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” (Romans 8:33-35).

    Romans 8 is one of my favorite chapters of the Bible because it speaks to God’s love for us. Whenever I'm struggling to know my worth, I turn to Romans 8, and it helps me feel more optimistic. There is power in the Word of God, and it can change our entire lives. However, these changes will not occur unless we read the Bible every day.

    This is why it is important for us to spend time in the Word daily. It is not enough to only listen to the Bible on Sunday mornings. Having a relationship with Jesus means we study the Bible each day, talk with Him in prayer, and apply His teachings in our lives. By doing these things, Christ will disciple us, and we will grow in our relationship with Him.

    Over the past year, I have often wondered whether God truly loves me. I see everyone else living joyful lives while I am struggling every day. My brain reasons that if God did love and care about me, I would be in a better situation than I am right now. I wouldn't have numerous medical health issues, mental health struggles, financial issues, or constant worries about the future. Once I sat down and surrendered everything to the Lord, I was led once again back to Romans 8. This chapter brought me back to a true understanding of God and who He is, rather than what my brain had created Him to be. God is not picking on me, nor is He causing these terrible things to happen. Instead, all the issues I'm having are just part of living in a fallen world.

    Rather than believing the lie that life will always be full of pain, grief, and sorrow, God has helped me to see that better things are coming. Even if these things don't happen overnight, they will come in the future.

    Intersecting Faith & Life:

    The Apostle Paul tells us, “Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” (Romans 8:33-35).

    Paul tells us plainly in this passage that God is the One who justifies, and nobody can condemn us because we belong to Him. Jesus died for us to live, and He is constantly interceding for us. Nothing in all creation or any trouble can separate us from the love of Christ. Paul mentions that hardship, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, and sword will not separate us from the love of Christ.

    This tells us that our present season of suffering does not separate us from the love of Christ. Our physical illnesses, mental illnesses, and life challenges are nothing compared to the love of God. God knows these struggles exist in this world, but He will never leave us to face them alone. We are always on God’s mind, and He is always surrounding us with His love, care, and protection. Try to start noticing the little ways His love is shining through in your life.

    Have you ever felt your troubles have separated you from God? Why did you think this?

    How does it feel to know that nothing can separate us from the love of God?

    What are some ways you remind yourself of God’s love when times are hard?

    Further Reading:

    Romans 8:36-39

    Psalm 23:1-6

    Psalm 86:15

    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.


    Do Not Disturb May 19, 2026
    Show notes

    Psalm 121:2-6 reminds believers that God never stops watching over His children. In this devotional, Alexis A. Goring uses the modern “Do Not Disturb” feature on smartphones as a powerful contrast to God’s constant availability. While people often silence notifications to protect their peace and focus, God never places limits on access to His presence. He never sleeps, grows tired, or becomes too busy to hear the prayers of His people.

    This devotional offers encouragement for anyone feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or hesitant to approach God. Unlike human relationships that may feel distant or unavailable, God remains attentive, compassionate, and near at every moment. He lovingly invites believers to bring every burden, fear, mistake, and prayer before Him. Through His endless grace and faithful presence, Christians can find comfort knowing they are never disturbing God when they seek His help.

    Highlights

    • God never puts His children on “Do Not Disturb.”
    • Psalm 121 reveals God as our constant protector and helper.
    • God never sleeps or grows weary in caring for His people.
    • Prayer gives believers direct access to God anytime and anywhere.
    • God bends near to listen compassionately to His children.
    • Believers do not need to fear bringing struggles or failures to God.
    • God’s love is personal, attentive, and unending.

    Do you want to listen ad-free?

    When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!

    Sign Up Today!

    Full Transcript Below:

    Do Not Disturb

    By Alexis A. Goring

    Bible Reading:
    “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you—the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.” - Psalm 121:2-6 (NIV)

    Recently, I started implementing the “Do Not Disturb” feature on my phone.

    This has proven to be a game-changer. Now, from my bedtime until early morning, no text alerts, notifications, or calls can interrupt my peace and quiet as I sleep. I love this luxury so much that I now often activate the “Do Not Disturb” feature during the daytime when I am awake but busy and don’t want anything or anyone to interrupt my workflow.

    Thanks to this feature, I can have a level of peace and quiet whenever I want. When people try to text or call me during this time, they see a note on their phone that I am not to be disturbed. Granted, I am always willing to read and reply to texts and return phone calls as soon as my schedule allows. But knowing that I can concentrate on my work without too many interruptions brings me great relief. Lately, I was thinking about this, and my thoughts led to God as I realized He never puts a “Do Not Disturb” sign on His door. He has an open-door policy for all His children here on Earth.

    God loves us with all His Heart. He readily makes Himself available to listen to us and help us literally any time of the day or night. The Bible says He will never leave us nor forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:8). He never sleeps (Psalm 121:3-4), and He always has time for us. This Almighty God has a whole universe to run, yet He cares so much about our life here on Earth that He “bends down to listen” (Psalm 116:2) to our every prayer.

    Let me tell you the significance of that verse: When I worked as a schoolteacher, my more experienced mentor told me that when one of my students was in trouble, I should bend down to listen to her and address the issue. She told me this because even when this child was standing tall, she was barely taller than my waist because she was in her early school years. By bending down, I, as her teacher, was able to meet her on her level and make eye contact. This helped her feel at ease and safe to tell me about what she did because instead of looking up at me, she could see me on her eye level. It is much less intimidating than a grown adult authority figure towering over her because that can make her feel too scared to tell me what happened, especially if she was in the wrong.

    God has more authority than a human teacher. Yet He is gentle with us but strong when needed. The Bible says God disciplines those He loves (Hebrews 12:6). Depending on where we are in our faith walk with Jesus Christ, we might see God as an intimidating authority figure who towers over us with His majesty and strong frame. This might make us fearful. But the Bible says God doesn’t want us to be afraid. He loves us unconditionally, and He will always bend down to help us and restore us when we are in the wrong, repent of our sins, and ask Him to forgive us.

    God doesn’t think we are disturbing Him when we bring our pain, problems, and mistakes to Him as we seek His help. He is never too busy when it comes to us. Isn’t it good to know that the Creator of the Universe loves us that much? And that is only the tip of the iceberg because His compassion for humankind runs deep. We will never understand the depth of God’s Love for us (Ephesians 3:18-19).

    In closing, I’d like for you to listen to this song, “Reckless Love” by Cory Asbury. It is about God’s endless love for us. And listen to this other song, “My Help” by Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir.

    Song of Reflection #1: “Reckless Love” by Cory Asbury. Listen to it here: https://youtu.be/Sc6SSHuZvQE

    Song of Reflection #2: “My Help” by Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Listen to it here: https://youtu.be/DWydssGbUBc?si=zlg1X2ZrFqqu-l6T

    Intersecting Faith and Life:

    What do you think about God’s never-ending love for you?

    Further Reading:
    1 John 5:14-15
    Jeremiah 33:3
    Matthew 28:18
    Psalm 34:17
    Psalm 66:18-19

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    Trusting God With What You’ve Already Surrendered May 18, 2026
    Show notes

    Whether it’s relationships, dreams, plans, or unanswered prayers, God invites His children not only to release control but to confidently trust His heart and His timing.

    This devotional encourages Christians to stop living in fear over what God might do with their surrendered lives and instead rest in His faithfulness. God is not withholding good from His children. Even when doors close or circumstances disappoint, He is still working for His glory and our ultimate good. Trusting God means believing that His plans are better than our own and finding peace in His presence, even in uncertainty.

    Highlights

    • Surrender is a daily choice, but trust must follow surrender.
    • Believers often struggle with taking back what they’ve already given to God.
    • Fear of losing control can make trusting God difficult.
    • God’s closed doors may actually be acts of protection and grace.
    • Philippians 4:19 reminds us God faithfully provides what we truly need.
    • Pain and uncertainty can deepen intimacy and dependence on God.
    • Psalm 37 calls believers to trust God, remain faithful, and delight in Him.

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    Full Transcript Below:

    Trusting God with What You Have Already Surrendered

    By Hannah Benson

    Bible Reading:
    “Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday” (Psalm 37:3-6 ESV)

    Have you ever prayed, “Lord, help me to surrender?” We all have things we need to surrender daily to the Lord. Our hopes and dreams for the future, our plans, our calling, relationships, and the list goes on.

    I’ve been in a season where my continual prayer has been one of surrender, which isn’t necessarily wrong. As I said, the prayer of surrender and the heart that gives everything to Jesus must be renewed day by day. Surrender is a daily choice to give it to Him.

    A few months ago, I was walking around our yard after work, as I often do to clear my mind. I found the same words leaving my lips that I’ve prayed for months, maybe even the past year or two: “Lord, help me surrender.”

    And then, I froze.

    It was almost like God whispered to my spirit, “You have surrendered. Now do you trust Me with what You’ve surrendered?”

    I stopped in my tracks. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks.

    To be honest, I’d never thought of it that way before.

    Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not implying that surrender is a one-and-done deal. It’s a process. I’m also not saying that surrender and trust don’t go hand-in-hand. They absolutely do.

    But like little children asked to yield a favorite toy to an adult for reasons they don’t yet understand, once they have taken that leap of faith and placed it in their parent’s hand, the “act” is finished. Now, they must trust the parents’ hearts with what matters most to them. They have already surrendered, but now they must trust.

    We’re like little children more than we realize.

    What if once we release into the Father’s hand, we are called to stop reaching back for what we’ve let go of? I find that’s one of the hardest parts for me. I’ve admitted to myself that sometimes, I struggle to trust God and want to take it back into my own hands.

    Why?

    He hasn’t proven Himself untrustworthy. I know He isn’t going to fail me.

    But if I’m honest, I think it’s because deep down, I want something so badly that I fear losing it. I fear God will ask me to give it up, that things won’t go my way, or I won’t get what I want.

    God will always provide what I need, even if it’s not what I think I want. Philippians 4:19 (ESV) reminds us that “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” I’ve seen it in my lifetime and again. Why would I doubt Him now?

    If He closes a door, then perhaps it’s protection. You ever heard the phrase “rejection is God’s protection”? Yep. So have I. And as much as I hate to admit it, it is often true.

    When God closes a door we thought we were meant to walk through, we can be tempted to become angry at God. We can wonder why He did that. We can feel like we deserve [fill-in-the-blank]. But the truth is, every good thing comes from above and is a gift of grace we could never earn (James 1:17).

    Yes, but God loves to give good gifts to His children. Not just good gifts but the best for us (Matthew 7:11). It may not look like the gifts He chooses to bless someone else with, but that’s okay. It doesn’t have to. It will be the best for us.

    And you know something else?

    God desires fellowship with us. I have found many times in my own life that God will allow things that will draw me to Him. Those things force me to rely on Him, to trust His plan, or to choose to worship Him even in a valley. He didn’t force us to Himself, but in those moments, He gives a choice: we can either allow the pain to pull us towards God or push Him away.

    Intersecting Faith & Life

    Recently, I wrestled with anger towards God. I knew I didn’t want to be angry, and I was angry at myself for even feeling that way.

    I knew God had a plan, and I wanted to trust Him.

    In the dark of night, I finally whispered to Him: “God, please write my story in the way that brings You the most glory.”

    I can’t explain it, but after that night, I’ve had peace regarding that specific situation in my life.

    I realized that Psalm 37:3-6 isn’t just about committing my way to the Lord. It was also about trusting Him once I did. We are called to trust in the Lord, do good, dwell where He has placed us, and be faithful in even the small things. If we delight ourselves in the Lord, He will give us the desires of our hearts, which is ultimately a relationship and fellowship with Him. It’s so hard sometimes, but there is such beauty and freedom in committing our ways to the Lord, trusting in Him, and watching Him write our stories in ways only He can.

    And I know that no matter what happens, no matter what pain or unpleasant situations come up in my life, God will be there. And if He uses the pain to draw me to Him and to use in glorifying Himself and calling others to Him, then by His strength alone, I can say, “Bring it on.” If the pain is the path to His presence, then I count it all joy. It’s worth it.

    Pray with me:

    Dear Father, thank You for being patient with me, for being a loving Father whose heart I can trust even when I don’t understand Your plan. Forgive me for the times I’ve tried to take back what I’ve already surrendered to You, and for the moments I’ve let what I want cloud my view of what You have for me. Today, I’m not just surrendering my plans. I choose to trust You with what is already in Your hands. Help me to leave my story in Your hands, knowing that if You are writing it, it will be for my ultimate good and Your greatest glory. I am Yours. In Jesus’s Name, Amen.

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    Run to God for Security May 17, 2026
    Show notes

    Proverbs 18:10 reminds believers that true security is found not in human strength or earthly protection, but in the presence and power of God. In this devotional, Whitney Hopler reflects on a frightening experience in Washington, D.C., where heightened police activity and danger created anxiety rather than peace. Yet in the middle of uncertainty, prayer shifted her focus from fear to God’s protection and brought a deep sense of peace.

    This devotional encourages Christians to run to God first whenever fear, uncertainty, or danger arise. Like the fortified towers in biblical times, God’s presence provides refuge, strength, and safety for His people. While difficult circumstances may not immediately disappear, believers can trust that God remains sovereign, powerful, and near in every situation. Through prayer, we gain access to the only security that never fails.

    Highlights

    • God is the ultimate source of safety and protection.
    • Earthly security often cannot provide lasting peace.
    • Prayer connects believers directly to God’s unlimited power.
    • Proverbs 18:10 compares God’s name to a fortified tower.
    • Running to God means trusting Him in fearful situations.
    • God’s peace can calm anxiety even when circumstances remain difficult.
    • Believers can confidently rely on God’s presence during uncertainty and danger.

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    Full Transcript Below:

    Run to God for Security

    By: Whitney Hopler

    Bible Reading:

    “The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” – Proverbs 18:10, NIV

    While my husband Russ and I drove home from watching the musical “1776” at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C., we were surprised to see that many of the streets we had planned to take were blocked by a massive police presence. We found ourselves caught in a maze of detours trying to get around the White House. The more we drove, the more alarmed we became. Police officers were everywhere, racing by in cruisers with sirens blaring and red and blue lights flashing. They were also standing outside, with their guns in full view, talking urgently on radios. I checked the news on my phone while Russ drove, and discovered that a man armed with guns and knives had breached security at the Washington Hilton and opened fire during the White House correspondents’ dinner. That was the same hotel where President Ronald Reagan had been wounded in an act of violence decades before. Earlier in history, President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated in the same theater where we had just seen the show. Despite all the armed officers surrounding us, I didn’t feel protected. Instead, the abundance of weapons and the high-speed maneuvers made me feel insecure and unsafe. So, I prayed for protection – for us in our car, for all the officers and people at the correspondents’ dinner, and for everyone else in the area. Then I felt a strong sense of peace settle on me. I finally felt secure because I knew I could trust God for my ultimate safety, and I experienced God’s peace.

    Proverbs 18:10 points out that calling on God’s name through prayer is a powerful way to find safety. It compares God to a fortified tower we can run to. In biblical times, fortified towers were at the core of a city’s defense. Those towers were built with thick stones and placed on the highest ground. When an enemy invaded, the people would abandon their vulnerable houses and run to the tower for protection.

    The verse says the “name of the Lord” is like a strong tower. When we run to God by calling on his name through prayer, we’re connecting with the source of all power! There is no limit to God’s power. So, God is much stronger than any dangerous situation we’ll ever face in this fallen world.

    You can run to God’s protection anytime and anywhere you need it, just by calling on God’s name when you pray. When you’re facing scary circumstances in your life – like an alarming health diagnosis or conflict in a relationship that’s important to you – you may feel trapped in a dangerous place, as I did in Washington, D.C. that night. But when you pray, you can run through the doors of God’s protection. Notice that the verse says “the righteous run to it and are safe.” That doesn’t mean that the danger around you will stop. But God, who is much more powerful than the danger, will be present with you right in the middle of danger. All you have to do is call on the name of the Lord, and God will answer your prayer by helping you.

    God gives you the ultimate security. It doesn’t depend on how many police officers are in your neighborhood or how many locks are on your door. God’s security is based on the reality that God has unlimited power, so nothing can break through his protective barriers. Whenever you feel unsafe, run to God in prayer just like you would run to a strong tower for protection. Then you’ll find the security that only God can give you!

    Intersecting Faith & Life:

    As you consider why it’s important to run to God for security, reflect on these questions:

    • When you feel afraid or anxious, what’s the very first thing you usually do to try to feel safe?
    • Why do you think human security (like money, locks, or even the police) sometimes fails to give us true peace of mind?
    • What does it mean to you to run to God’s name in the middle of a challenging or dangerous situation?
    • When has God answered your prayers for protection in the past? How did you experience God’s peace in those situations?
    • What circumstances are you facing right now where you need God’s protection?

    Further Reading:

    Psalm 46:1

    Psalm 61:3

    Psalm 91:2

    2 Samuel 22:3

    Nahum 1:7

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    Cultivating Patience May 16, 2026
    Show notes

    Proverbs 14:29 teaches that patience reflects wisdom and understanding, while quick-tempered reactions often lead to regret and foolishness. In this devotional, Vivian Bricker shares her personal struggle with impatience, anxiety, and the desire for control, revealing how God helped her gradually cultivate patience through growth, flexibility, prayer, and dependence on Him.

    This devotional reminds believers that patience is not developed overnight but is part of spiritual maturity and the fruit of the Spirit. Through prayer, intentional thinking, and trusting God in frustrating moments, Christians can learn to respond with peace rather than anger. Whether facing delays, unmet expectations, or everyday inconveniences, God faithfully helps His children grow in patience as they rely on His strength and guidance.

    Highlights

    • Patience often develops through difficult and frustrating seasons.
    • Anxiety and the desire for control can contribute to impatience.
    • God strengthens believers when they turn to Him during stressful moments.
    • Filling waiting seasons with productive or meaningful activities can help cultivate patience.
    • Proverbs 14:29 connects patience with wisdom and understanding.
    • Quick-tempered reactions often damage our witness and relationships.
    • Patience is a fruit of the Spirit that grows over time through dependence on God.

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    Full Transcript Below:

    Cultivating Patience
    By: Vivian Bricker

    Bible Reading:
    “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly” (Proverbs 14:29).

    Patience is something most of us have struggled with at various times in our lives. As a teen, I remember struggling immensely with patience as I was obsessed with routines. If something didn’t go as planned, I would get stressed. I now know this was due to an underlying anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). But back then, I had no idea.

    My lack of patience and desire for order made life challenging for my entire family. My mom was worried about my behavior and spoke with me about my concerning behaviors. She told me that I needed to learn to be flexible because life is not set in stone. We cannot expect everything to happen exactly as it did yesterday. My mom wanted to ensure I understood that patience was required to be flexible, and it was something I was going to have to work on.

    While I continued to struggle with patience and flexibility as a teen, I have now cultivated these skills as an adult. Although my mom never saw all her wise words and hard work come to fruition in my life, I am eternally grateful for her help. I am now able to be patient, flexible, and roll with the punches. While some things can still bother me, such as being stuck in traffic or waiting in a lengthy line, most things don’t anymore. I can fill my time with other things while I wait, and I can talk with the Lord in prayer when I’m struggling.

    In truth, we can easily snuff out impatience by talking with the Lord. He will give us guidance and strengthen our minds when we are at our wits' end. Moreover, it also helps to fill our time with other things. For example, if we are waiting for a doctor’s appointment, we can bring a book or an assignment we need to work on.

    Think about a book you want to read, a hobby you want to pick up, or a friend you’ve meant to call. Most things take time, but if we fill our time with fun and productive activities, patience will not feel as draining anymore.

    Intersecting Faith & Life:

    The Bible tells us, “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly” (Proverbs 14:29). This shows the importance of being patient. Cultivating patience will take time; however, God will help us. As we lean more into Him, apply His teachings in our lives, and rely on Him for strength, we will develop patience each day.

    Sometimes we might struggle, but this is normal. None of us will master patience overnight, and we will fall short at times. As long as we are trying our best, we are doing right. Patience is a fruit of the Spirit, which tells us it will take time to perfect (Galatians 5:22-23).

    If we are quick-tempered, we are displaying folly. Think about when you saw someone lose their temper. Were they red in the face? What was the tone of their voice? Did they look Christ-like? Addressing these questions will help us avoid future mistakes in our own lives.

    “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9). As believers, we need to continue to walk the way of patience and refrain from anger (Psalm 37:8). Those who seek patience will cultivate life, and those who seek anger will find folly. Carefully pray over the matter, talk with Him, and allow Him to direct your path.

    Why do you think so many of us struggle with patience? By understanding the difference between patience and folly, how will it impact your future actions and behaviors?

    Further Reading:

    Psalm 37:7-11

    Romans 12:12

    Proverbs 15:18

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    Life Is Better Together May 15, 2026
    Show notes

    Acts 2:42 reminds believers that Christian community is essential for spiritual growth, encouragement, and living out our faith together. In this devotional, Laura Bailey explores the growing epidemic of loneliness and isolation in modern culture and contrasts it with the deep fellowship found in the early church. Rooted in Acts 2:42-47, this message highlights how relationships, service, prayer, and shared faith were central to the lives of early believers.

    This devotional encourages Christians to rediscover the beauty of biblical community through active involvement in the local church. Rather than approaching church casually or consumeristically, believers are called to devote themselves to fellowship, worship, and serving together with a shared mission centered on Christ. True joy and spiritual strength are often found when we move beyond isolation and begin doing life together with other believers.

    Highlights

    • Loneliness and isolation continue to rise as community declines.
    • The early church modeled deep fellowship, prayer, and shared purpose.
    • Christian community provides relationships, service opportunities, and belonging.
    • Church attendance in Acts was marked by devotion, not convenience.
    • Believers are called to focus on Christ rather than personal preferences.
    • Spiritual growth happens when Christians live life together outside Sunday services.
    • Genuine community strengthens both physical and spiritual well-being.

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    Full Transcript Below:

    Life Is Better Together

    By: Laura Bailey

    Bible Reading:

    “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Acts 2:42 NIV
    In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General’s report (Vivek Murthy) found that more than half of U.S. adults feel lonely. He then goes on to say that our nation has a loneliness and isolation epidemic. While loneliness results from a lack of social connection, social isolation is characterized by a lack of time spent with others. A study published in the Harvard Gazette found that loneliness and isolation are typically related. What were the reasons given for the increase in these two areas? The decrease in marriage and church attendance. Or as we know it, as the lack of community.
    In an interview with Oprah, Vivek Murthy, responding to questions on how to address the epidemic of loneliness and isolation, believes that three factors contribute to these feelings: relationships, service, and community. “When we focus on connecting to something bigger than ourselves, that’s actually when we find joy,” he told Oprah. “It’s why service is one of the most powerful antidotes to loneliness,” Murthy shares.
    While Murthy is speaking in general terms, consider these three factors in the context of Acts 2:42-47. Where are there built-in relationships, services, and a sense of community? The local church. It is actually more detrimental to our physical, mental, and spiritual health to live life alone than to be among other people.
    Let’s look at the context of our key passage, Acts 2:42-47, to better understand the importance of being part of a Christian community. Examine the words used in the above verses; they were devoted, not just attending church when it was convenient or when they were on good terms with the congregation. Their church attendance was a non-negotiable. And lest you think the ancient church was without its problems, the majority of these people were having to learn to get along with people they’d hated for centuries. The majority of the New Testament addresses this group of people, urging them to reconcile, lay aside past hurts and current differences, and move forward in unity, because they are united in Christ.
    Everyone was filled with awe; they were excited to hear God’s Word and be in the presence of the brothers and sisters in Christ. When was the last time you were genuinely excited about going to church? Did you fully grasp the privilege of openly hearing God’s Word? In the West, especially for those who’ve grown up in the pews, we have lost our spiritual fervor; we are most certainly lacking in zeal. We're coming before God on Sunday mornings (and all the times in between), not out of gratitude, but out of obligation. We’ve become so focused on what the church is not —the numerous ways our preferences go unmet, feelings hurt, pride wounded. We’ve become fixated on the people rather than the Person of Christ we are called to worship. We’ve lost perspective.

    The believers in Acts were hyper-focused on their purpose as a church. I am confident that there were conflicts as they sought to know God and make God known, but they didn’t allow disagreements to distract, divide, and deter them from their work. They didn’t walk away from the mission of the church because someone inflicted emotional or spiritual pain. They were so outward-focused that they didn’t have time to linger on their inward feelings. They grasped that the church wasn’t about them individually, but rather what they could contribute corporately.
    Another thing we see in this text is that the early believers weren’t just “church friends.” They didn’t regulate the meeting of the saints to a particular day, time, or location- yet, they were in constant community. In our modern day, we refer to this as 'doing life together'–they found their tribe! And what do we see? The gift of community further blesses Christians who move their relationships outside the walls of the church. They hung out in public, invited each other to their most intimate places — homes — and ate together, fulfilling both their physical needs and their spiritual souls. Their hearts are glad because they are united by a mutual love for the Lord and desire to do His work.

    Intersecting Life & Faith:
    Are you involved in a local church community? If you are, great! Consider how you can continue to encourage and engage with the body of believers. If not, take some time this week to visit churches and get plugged in!
    Further Reading:
    Proverbs 27:17

    10 Reasons You Need Community

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    When You Have Nowhere Else to Go May 14, 2026
    Show notes

    This devotional challenges Christians to move beyond treating faith as just one part of life and instead recognize Christ as life itself. Rooted in Colossians 3 and Psalm 73, it encourages readers to anchor their identity, direction, and contentment in Jesus alone. When disappointment, loneliness, or confusion arise, believers are reminded that God is the one constant who never fails and whose presence brings lasting joy and strength.

    Highlights

    • Peter’s response to Jesus reveals complete dependence on Christ alone.
    • Disappointment often exposes misplaced priorities and false sources of security.
    • Faith is meant to shape every part of life, not remain compartmentalized.
    • Colossians 3 calls believers to focus on eternal priorities and values.
    • Jesus is not simply part of life—He is our life.
    • God is the only one who will never ultimately disappoint us.
    • Lasting peace, purpose, and joy are found in Christ’s presence.

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    Full Transcript Below:

    When You Have Nowhere Else to Go

    By Cindi McMenamin

    Bible Reading:
    “So Jesus said to the twelve, ‘You do not want to leave also, do you?’ Simon Peter answered Him, ‘Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life’” (John 6:67-68 NASB).

    After Jesus had said some difficult words for His followers to understand, many of them got up and left. Some probably realized He wasn’t the conquering Messiah-king they had hoped for. Others perhaps got frustrated with not being able to understand Jesus’ words. After many of them left, Jesus asked His remaining twelve disciples if they, too, wanted to leave.

    That’s when Peter spoke up and boldly proclaimed, “To whom shall we go?” In other words, “We have nowhere else to go.”

    Have you ever felt like that?

    I remember the day I felt I had nowhere else to go but to Him. My parents had just split up, and there was no security in my home, in my plans, or in my heart. Today, I look back on that day as the moment in which I took ownership of my faith. The moment in which my bond with Him was sealed, and I realized I had nowhere else to go but to Him.

    When we grow up learning about Jesus from the time we’re young, or if we’ve walked with Him a while, we can get complacent and put our lives in cruise control and fail to acknowledge His presence, direction, wisdom, guidance, and love every moment of our day. Faith becomes a compartment that is added to the many elements of our life, instead of becoming our whole life. That’s when disappointment can rock us.

    The apostle Paul opened his letter to the Colossians with instructions for followers if they are truly His:

    Therefore, if you have been raised with Christ, keep seeking the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on the things that are above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory (verses 1-4).

    If you have been raised with Christ. It appears to be an if/then situation. If we are His and have been transformed by His death and resurrection, we are to keep seeking the things that are above, where Christ is. That means we are to keep our minds on our eternal home, have eternal priorities and values, live as if we are here temporarily, and we will soon be in our real home with the Lover of our souls. The verse goes on to say we have died and our lives are hidden with Christ in God. (Our rights, our sense of entitlement, our preferences have died with Christ, and we are hidden, and He (and His character) is evident and on display for the world. Then the next line simply assumes that Christ is not just a part of our life, but is our whole life.

    Intersecting Faith & Life:

    When we consider Christ—not a partner or spouse, child, or even a job—as our whole life, we safeguard ourselves from misplaced priorities and frequent disappointment.

    God is the Only One who will never disappoint us. And I realize that you may believe that in your heart of hearts, but life still hurts. Being vulnerable enough to tell a loved one what you need from them and then coming up empty because they have no idea how to respond can leave us feeling sore to the core.

    So where do you and I go with that? Our answer must be the same as Peter’s: “Lord, there is no one else that we can go to!” (CEV).

    I have learned to echo Peter’s words by making Psalm 73:25-26 my life’s motto, as well as the cry of my heart. In the Contemporary English Version, that passage reads:

    “In heaven I have only you, and on this earth you are all I want. My body and mind may fail, but you are my strength and my choice forever.”

    In other words, Christ, who is my life.

    Where do you go when others disappoint? Be already depending on Him, and the disappointments will come less often. What do you do when you begin to lack contentment? Remember who is your life and that in His presence is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11). Where do you turn when you feel directionless or lacking in purpose? To the One who is your life, your compass, your purpose.

    Lord, may You be the object of my heart, my focus, my direction, my life. You gave up Your life on this earth so I could belong to You forever. I give You my life and desires and realize I have nowhere else to go—but to You.

    Further Reading:
    Psalm 84

    For help prioritizing your day with Jesus, see Cindi McMenamin’s book,The New Loneliness Devotional: 50 Days to a Closer Connection with God.

    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.


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