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  • The Grace of a Quiet Table and a Full Heart

    The Grace of a Quiet Table and a Full Heart
    2025/11/15
    There’s a quiet kind of grace found at the table—a place where the noise of daily life slows and God’s presence feels nearer. Luke 22:14–15 reminds us that Jesus deeply desired time at the table with His friends. That same invitation extends to us: to pause, to savor, and to step out of the rush of chronos time and into the soul-settling rhythm of kairos—God’s time. Whether shared with others or enjoyed in peaceful solitude, the table can become a sacred space where our hearts are refilled. Highlights Jesus modeled intentional, meaningful moments around the table. Small choices—like candles, real dishes, or slowing the pace—help us step into God-centered time. The table can create a boundary against stress, hurry, and digital distraction. Kairos moments often come through simple acts of presence, connection, and gratitude. Communing with God at the table—alone or with others—shifts our focus from exhaustion to rest. Creating beauty in ordinary moments can soften the heart and open space for reflection. A quiet table can become a reminder that God meets us in everyday rhythms. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: The Grace of a Quiet Table and a Full Heart By Deidre Braley Bible Reading:When the hour came, he (Jesus) reclined at the table, and the apostles with him. Then he said to them, “I have fervently desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer.” - Luke 22:14-15 I have a confession to make: My husband and I often eat dinner on the couch. Though I have wonderful visions of eating at the table with our children, sharing about our days, and passing the potatoes, the reality is that with three children under the age of seven, evenings in our household often involve pouting over vegetables, lively play in dinosaur pajamas, and occasional tears about toothbrushing. And by the time everyone finally makes it to bed, the thought of being upright any longer feels too heavy a burden to bear. “Think we should eat at the table tonight?” my husband will ask tentatively, a plate in each hand. “Not tonight,” I’ll say most nights. “The couch is calling my name.” And then I’ll plop down, an exhausted pile of mush. But last week, I made a parmesan risotto and slow-cooked beef tips, and I spooned it into pretty bowls. It looked so lovely that I thought, “Well, I’ll put out the cloth napkins.” After I did that, it only seemed right to light a few tapered candles. When my husband emerged from bedtime story duty, his eyes got wide. “I guess we’re eating at the table?” We lingered at the table long after our food was done, simply talking and enjoying the time together. When we finally saw the time, we retreated to get ready for bed, both remarking how nice the evening had been and how we should do this simple thing more often. The author Sarah Clarkson talks about how Madeleine L’Engle reflected on the two words used for ‘time’ by the ancient Greeks: one is chronos, which refers to chronological time, and the other is kairos, which L’Engle refers to as “God’s time.” Clarkson writes about the various ways her family intentionally pushed back against the demands of chronos time to make room for kairos, saying, “...kairos is also our choice, a way of offering our hours to God so that they become the cup and cradle for his precious life” (This Beautiful Truth: How God’s Goodness Breaks Into Our Darkness, pg. 157-158). Eating at the table is one way to usher in kairos time: to draw boundaries around the sacred so that the world has to wait outside for a while. When Jesus ate his Last Supper with the disciples, his friends, I always imagine that it was his way of encircling this time of communion and protecting it from the forward march of chronological time—and all the events that would soon follow. He protected it, cradled it, and enjoyed it for all it was worth. To him, it wasn’t just a meal or even a religious ritual: He told his disciples, “I have fervently desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer.” It was a joy—in these moments, kairos time—God’s time—was activated. Intersecting Faith & Life: The table is a wonderful way to step into kairos time. Though it’s wonderful to enjoy a meal with others—whether that’s a spouse or a friend, or a dinner party filled with chatter and laughter—it can also be powerful to sit at the table alone and use that time to commune with God. Somehow, the posture of sitting at a place meant for reflection and communion can signal to your body, mind, and ...
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    6 分
  • When All We See Is a Jar Half-Empty

    When All We See Is a Jar Half-Empty
    2025/11/14
    When life feels like a jar half-empty, 1 Kings 17:12–16 reminds us that God’s provision isn’t limited by what we can see. The widow, facing her final meal, offered what little she had—and discovered a miracle that carried her household through famine. God often calls us to trust Him beyond our logic, timelines, or resources, not to take from us but to reveal how faithfully He provides when we surrender what feels scarce. Highlights The widow’s “last meal” became the doorway to God’s ongoing provision. Fear, scarcity, and uncertainty can make obedience feel impossible. Trusting God doesn’t always make sense in the moment—but it positions us to see His power. God often works behind the scenes long before we see results. Obedience in the small things can lead to unexpected opportunities and blessings. Personal stories—like finding a job, purpose, or direction—often echo the widow’s journey of radical trust. God’s plans unfold step-by-step, not all at once, and His timing rarely looks like ours. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: When All We See Is a Jar Half-Empty By Hannah Benson Bible Reading: And she said, “As the Lord your God lives, I have nothing baked, only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. And now I am gathering a couple of sticks that I may go in and prepare it for myself and my son, that we may eat it and die.” And Elijah said to her, “Do not fear; go and do as you have said. But first make me a little cake of it and bring it to me, and afterward make something for yourself and your son. For thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, ‘The jar of flour shall not be spent, and the jug of oil shall not be empty, until the day that the Lord sends rain upon the earth.’” And she went and did as Elijah said. And she and he and her household ate for many days. The jar of flour was not spent, neither did the jug of oil become empty, according to the word of the Lord that he spoke by Elijah. - 1 Kings 17:12-16 One Saturday afternoon, as I spent quiet time with God, the Lord impressed on my heart the story of the widow and Elijah. I froze. Where did that come from? In all honesty, I hadn’t thought of that story in a long time. Needless to say, I flipped open my Bible and found the story smack-dab in the middle of 1 Kings 17. As I reread the story, the Lord reminded me of a time in my life when God had called me, like the widow in the story, to trust His plans more than the “reality” I could see. Let’s rewind, refresh our memory of the passage, and step into ancient Israel for a moment. Have you ever wondered how the widow in 1 Kings 17 felt as she peered into her jar and jug? Perhaps she sighed. Perhaps, despite how empty both were, they’d never felt so heavy in her hand. One more meal. One more meal and then she and her son would have nothing left. Perhaps she gazed up into the heavens or perhaps she fell on her knees in the dirt. Perhaps a tear slipped down her cheek and hit the soil, the splash of liquid the first the dry earth had seen in so long. Had God forgotten her? Suddenly, in the distance, there appeared a man, no doubt dusty and worn from his travels. He asked her for a drink. That alone would’ve been difficult to procure in a drought and famine. But she turned to fetch it. And then. He requested a morsel of bread. Her heart, no doubt, sank. Why would God ask her to surrender one of the very things she and her son needed to live? Perhaps a million thoughts ran through her mind. As it was, she and her boy would die eventually because they had nothing left. And now? Was God asking her to give everything? Didn’t He know what it would cost her? Despite her fears in the midst of God’s promise, the widow chose to offer what she had. Even though she couldn’t see how God would provide. Even though the reality staring her in the face contradicted what God had reassured her. And you know what? “And she and he and her household ate for many days” (v. 15). This realization wrapped around me like a warm blanket. I believe God will not always show us the next step. Sometimes, all we can see is what sits directly in front of us, but we don’t see the whole picture. When God asks us to do something radical, it doesn’t matter if it looks like we may lose something we hold close. It doesn’t matter if it looks like we will lack what we think we need (As the widow knew she would run out of food. That, after all, made sense). But God doesn’t operate in our timelines. He provides miracles often when we least expect them. ...
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    8 分
  • When the Fall and Winter Seasons Feel Heavy

    When the Fall and Winter Seasons Feel Heavy
    2025/11/13
    When the colder months trigger grief, anxiety, or seasonal depression, Psalm 94:19 offers an anchor: God’s consolation brings real joy even when our hearts feel heavy. Fall and winter can stir painful memories, shorten our daylight, and intensify emotional weight—but these seasons don’t have to be walked alone. God meets us in the darkness, understands the sorrow we carry, and invites us to bring every fear, memory, and ache to Him for comfort and healing. Highlights Seasonal shifts can stir grief, trauma, or depression, making fall and winter emotionally overwhelming. Psalm 94:19 reminds us that God brings joy even when anxiety runs deep. Talking with God—and with trusted loved ones or professionals—creates space for healing. Painful seasons don’t mean you’re alone; God fully understands the weight you carry. New memories, community, and small steps of connection can help soften the heaviness. With God, joy can return even to seasons marked by loss or sorrow. Healing often comes slowly, but God remains present and tender with every step. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: When the Fall and Winter Seasons Feel HeavyBy Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” - Psalm 94:19 Autumn is a season of beautiful leaves, crisp air, and an endless array of pumpkin-themed sweets. For many, the autumn season rings in fond memories and excitement for the upcoming holidays. However, for some, the colder months loom like a dark cloud. At one time, I, too, loved the autumn season as I was excited to see the leaves change, go trick-or-treating, and get ready for the start of the holiday season. However, each fall has a heaviness over it ever since my mom passed away a few autumns ago. Ever since then, it has been difficult to associate these months with anything else. Fall can be heavy, and it can be overwhelming at times for many of us. Perhaps, like me, you experienced a traumatic life event that clouds each autumn with sad memories. Or, perhaps you experience seasonal depression during the fall and winter - something that is common among many people. The days get shorter, and we’re left in darkness for much longer. Know that whatever it may be that is bringing heaviness into your life during this time, you are not alone. If you feel that fall is a difficult season to navigate, it is essential to talk with God as well as loved ones about what you are feeling. Reaching out to medical professionals can also be helpful if you ever have concerns about depression, anxiety, or thoughts of self-harm. Even if you only have minimal concerns around any of these things, be proactive about addressing them with your primary care provider. Intersecting Faith & Life: The Bible tells us, “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy” (Psalm 94:19). Although fall can bring much sorrow into our hearts, God can also bring joy into them. Whenever our hearts are full of anxiety, sorrow, or pain, we need to go to the Lord in prayer. God's consolation will bring us joy. God understands the pain we are feeling and how certain seasons can cause painful memories or depression to resurface. Despite the pain and heartbreak we are experiencing, God can help us to see the light of life again. Even if you think you will never enjoy fall again or you won't be able to walk into autumn without pain, know that it is more than possible. All things are possible with God (Matthew 19:26). The heaviness may continue; however, try to allow God to heal your weary heart. God may provide healing through your family, friends, or spouse. Make new memories with those around you and treasure the memories of the past. We might always feel a bit heavy when fall comes around, but sometimes this heaviness can keep our loved ones close to our hearts. Why does this season feel especially heavy for you? How can you bring those things to God? He longs to bring joy to a weary heart - all you need to do is reach for Him. Further Reading: Psalm 34:17-18 Zephaniah 3:17 Joshua 1:9 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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    5 分
  • Praising in the Middle of Pain

    Praising in the Middle of Pain
    2025/11/12
    Pain has a way of shaking our confidence, but Job 1:21 reminds us that worship can rise even from the hardest seasons. When everything fell apart, Job chose praise—a response rooted in the unshakable truth that God’s presence can’t be taken from us. His story shows us that even when loss, confusion, or unanswered questions threaten to overwhelm, God remains steady, powerful, and worthy. Sometimes the deeper gift in suffering is discovering who God truly is when everything else fades. Highlights Job praised God after unimaginable loss—because God Himself was still his greatest treasure. Emotional pain can still lead to worship when we trust God’s character. Physical suffering pushed Job into deeper questions and honest wrestling. God responded not with explanations but with a revelation of His majesty. Seeing who God is often brings more peace than understanding why hardship happens. Surrender grows when we remember God’s purposes can’t be thwarted. Pain can become the pathway to a closer, more intimate knowledge of God. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: Praising in the Middle of Pain By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading: The Lord gave me what I had, and the Lord has taken it away.Praise the name of the Lord! (Job 1:21 NLT) Job said these words after literally losing everything he had. Can you imagine praising God, as Job did, after unimaginable loss? The story of Job in the Bible is not a parable or a fable. Job was a real man, husband, father, and farmer. In fact, he was a present-day millionaire, in a sense. The Bible says he was the “greatest” (richest) man in the east. Then everything he had– and I mean everything—was gone in a day. In spite of this obvious and apparent shock of suddenly losing everything—his livestock, his livelihood, his investments, and all ten of his children—Job’s response was worship of his Creator and the One who had allowed him to lose it all. In a humble, God-honoring statement that truly defined this man’s character, Job responded not with questions, complaints, or curses, but with praise: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, And naked I shall return there. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD” (verses 20-21). How could Job have responded that way? I imagine you and I would react quite differently after losing just half as much as Job did. We might say things like: “God, why?” “God, I’ve served You and yet You let this happen.” “God, are You even there, anymore?” Experiencing loss upon loss can have that kind of effect on us. It makes us question everything we ever knew. Yet, Job could praise God in his pain because, in his wisdom, he realized the one thing that mattered most to him—his God—was something he would never lose. Job realized God was still there, God was still good, and God was still worthy of his praise. Job saw God as his greatest possession. Job’s response, though, wasn’t quite as stellar when he lost his health. When his livelihood and loved ones were taken from him, the emotional pain gave way to praise. But when his body became wracked with pain, the confusion, disillusionment, and responses that would be more like yours and mine set in. That is when Job began to question. That is when Job’s friends began to offer their opinions on why God was allowing his suffering. That is when Job met his darkest, most painful time—in the confusion of not understanding why God wasn’t letting up. And then, we get the most beautiful description in all of Scripture of Who our Creator is and all that He is capable of. In chapters 38-41, God takes our breath away when He answers Job out of his “storm”—the biggest storm God knew any man or woman on earth would ever have to endure. And God’s big reveal? His all-coveted answer to the age-old question why? It didn’t come. When God finally spoke, He didn’t solve the age-old mystery of why bad things happen to good people. Rather, His words began with: “Why do you talk so much when you know so little?” (Job 38:2 CEV). God was, in a sense, saying: “Who are you, Job, to question Me?” And for four long chapters, God doesn’t shine a penlight of understanding on Job’s circumstances, but projects a spotlight on who the God of the Universe really is, and all He’s capable of. After God’s discourse, Job is the one who is silent. After hearing God’s description of how He rules and sustains all creation, Job is speechless. The only thing he can finally utter is a ...
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    8 分
  • Confusion May Signal a God-Transition

    Confusion May Signal a God-Transition
    2025/11/11
    When life suddenly feels unclear and the path you’ve been walking seems to disappear beneath your feet, it’s easy to assume something has gone wrong. But Ecclesiastes 3:11 reminds us that God is always at work—even when our view is obstructed. Sometimes confusion isn’t a setback; it’s a signal that God is shifting your direction, preparing new ground, or ushering you into a fresh season. What looks like disorientation may actually be His gentle nudge to lift your eyes, trust Him again, and follow where He’s leading next. Highlights Confusion can be a sign of transition, not failure. God often uses unexpected moments to redirect our steps. Old paths may fade so new ones can form. What feels like “lost” may actually be God’s protection or preparation. Faith invites us to walk even when visibility is low. Seasonal shifts in life often require new vision and fresh trust. Scripture realigns our perspective when we can’t see the way forward. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: Confusion May Signal a God-TransitionBy Kelly Balarie Bible Reading:“Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.”– Ecclesiastes 3:11 NLT God is so creative.Ever notice how He uses the most unusual things to teach us the lessons we need to know? It happened to me today... Taking a hike, I headed deep into the woods, leaves crunching underfoot. I kept my eyes alert, knowing I needed to take note of landmarks if I wanted to safely return to my car. You know how it is — it’s easy to quickly head somewhere without even realizing how you got there in the first place. That couldn’t happen; I wanted to make it home safely. At first, seeing my path was easy — that is, until it wasn’t. What used to be visible gray ground had disappeared. Now, pine needles covered my path. And confusion set in... Was I going right — toward that tall tree? Straight — toward no trees? Or left — toward a tree stump? I wasn’t so sure. Have you ever been there? Going a certain way only to suddenly experience confusion? Disillusionment? Maybe you were headed somewhere with God, only to be obstructed...Maybe you thought you were on the right path until you ran into something... This can feel discouraging and disorienting. It can happen in marriages, jobs, joys, hobbies, friendships, vision, or calling. All the same, it becomes wearying to be on a path you thought was right — only to feel lost. That’s how I felt — for a second — lost. But as I lifted my head and looked yards ahead, I saw it. There! The path. I was safe — yet again. However, those path-covering pine needles got me thinking... How did they get there to begin with? I figured they arrived one of two ways: The wind blew them there.The new season of Fall placed them there. Some of us today need to know that our confusion isn’t just about disorientation — it may be about God providing us with a new direction. And sometimes what covers the old path is actually preparing the ground for a new path. When the winds of God come, though they displace things, it can be a very good thing. It is His repositioning. It is His moving. Yes, it’s true — what we once knew can look different or even disappear. But this doesn’t mean it won’t be good. Even if we can’t see, by faith, we can still walk — trusting Him. Likewise, confusion may signal a progression into a new season. The paths we knew in the old season may not suffice in a new one, which is why seeing can be hard. The pine needles of Summer must fall to make way for Fall. We can’t hold on to what was and still step into the beautiful potential of what can be. Plus, the falling is part of the seeding of new ground. Did you know that pine needles prepare the soil and they save the path from weeds? In our not seeing, there is also God protecting us in the process of shifting seasons.So, what do we do when we find ourselves here? We readjust. We ask God if He has something new for us. We discern if He wants us to change course, change jobs, change relationships — or simply press through. Either way, we take a time-out with the Lord to listen and discern. “Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.”(Ecclesiastes 3:11, NLT) There is a time for everything — and sometimes, there is a time when God adjusts our ...
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    7 分
  • Serving a God Who Is Able

    Serving a God Who Is Able
    2025/11/10
    Worry has a way of sneaking in and taking over, but Ephesians 3:20-21 reminds us of something worry can’t compete with: a God who is able—able to do exceedingly, abundantly above anything we ask, imagine, or fear. When anxiety rises, God invites us to remember His power, His faithfulness, and His perfect track record. From parting seas to opening parking spaces to carrying us through life-changing moments, He proves again and again that nothing is too big or too small for His care. Highlights God interrupts our worry with reminders of His presence and power. Scripture anchors us when our minds want to spiral into fear. God cares for both the “small things” and the monumental moments of our lives. Nothing can thwart God’s plans—His purpose always prevails. We worry because our vision is limited, but God sees the whole story. Remembering past faithfulness strengthens our confidence in present battles. Jesus stands ready to answer the “door” when worry comes knocking. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: God Is Able By: Alexis A. Goring Bible Reading: “ Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” - Ephesians 3:20-21 NKJV “Why are you worried?” God interrupted my thoughts with this question to ponder before I could start a downward spiral in my mind. He then put the lyrics to a song I hadn’t heard in years into my head. The song “He’s Able” by Deitrick Haddon ministered to my spirit and lifted my thoughts heavenward. It was through the message of this song and reading Bible verses that support it that God breathed new life into me and reminded me that He is still in control. He let me know I can always take my concerns to Him. The Bible says we are to “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you” (1 Peter 5:7 NLT). But how often do we keep our worries in our grasp and push God away? Perhaps we think that ruminating over our problems will somehow solve them. I’ve learned that way never works! The good news is that we have a Savior (Jesus Christ) who is exceptionally good at saving us from everyday disasters and ultimately, saving our souls (John 3:16-17) so we can make it into our final destination (Heaven). Over the years, I’ve learned that when worry comes knocking on the door of my mind, I need to remember who God is and let His Son (Jesus Christ) answer that door and send worry running away from me for good. I’ve found that when worried, it helps to remember Bible stories of how God delivers His people. One of my favorite scriptures to illustrate that point is the story about when God parted the Red Sea for His children (the Israelites) to pass safely to the other side then He drowned their enemies who were in pursuit behind them by returning the sea to its natural form! This is the same God who is alive today. The same Lord who is available to help us 24/7/365 because He never sleeps nor slumbers (Psalm 121:4). When worried, it is important to recall God’s faithfulness to us. He is Almighty, Sovereign, Faithful, and True to me and you. God is able to accomplish everything He has planned for our lives on Earth and in the world at large. No human or evil supernatural force can thwart God’s plans. His purpose always prevails (Proverbs 19:21). Nothing is impossible for God (Luke 1:37)! So why do we worry? I think it’s because we’re still human, mere mortals with finite vision. But the good news is we serve an Immortal God with infinite vision! The Bible says that God knows the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10). He’s planned out all the days of our life (Psalm 139:16), and He knows what He’s doing. God has a perfect track record of being trustworthy, and He does all things with perfection. God shows up for us in little ways and big ways. Such as the time when I needed a parking space in an office lot that is often full. Recently, as I prepared for an appointment, I prayed about this on my drive to that small space, and when I arrived, there were four empty parking spaces! This proved to me that God cares about the small things. When I was in my last few weeks of graduate school, our professor told us that if we made more than two mistakes on our final paper, then we would fail her class and not graduate. I asked all my God-fearing family and friends to pray for me about this serious situation, and God answered our prayers! I passed her final class ...
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    7 分
  • God’s Armor for the Spiritually Heavy Seasons

    God’s Armor for the Spiritually Heavy Seasons
    2025/11/09
    Spiritual heaviness can feel like it hits from every direction—global tragedies, personal struggles, and the weight of a world that seems to groan louder each day. Ephesians 6:10-11 reminds us that we’re not powerless in these seasons. God equips us with spiritual armor, giving us strength to stand firm, fight wisely, and remain grounded in His truth even when darkness feels overwhelming. Highlights Spiritual battles are real, but God never asks us to face them alone. The Holy Spirit empowers believers with strength, discernment, and courage. God’s armor—truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and His Word—protects us against the enemy’s schemes. Darkness may appear loud, but God’s authority is final, and His victory is already secured. Preparing daily with Scripture helps us resist defeat and stay rooted in truth. The enemy’s tactics are predictable, but God’s power in us is greater. Remembering God’s past faithfulness helps anchor us when the present feels heavy. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: God’s Armor for the Spiritually Heavy Seasons By: Laura Bailey Bible Reading: “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” - Ephesians 6:10-11 NIV For the past few weeks, I have felt a spiritual heaviness, both personally and as if I am carrying the weight of the world. Perhaps you can relate? In the middle of you trying to figure out how to pay for your child’s braces, another school shooting pops up on your news feed, and it's more than you can handle. A friend sharing about a difficult diagnosis on the heels of learning about a public assassination is overwhelming. The tension in your church is growing due to differences in direction, coupled with the continued polarization of society, leaving your soul weary. There is so much despair, desperation, and depravity all around us, yet as believers, we don’t have to live defeated. Paul, in his letter to the church of Ephesus, reminds them of the spiritual battle that wages all around them. However, they are not alone in the battle; they have the power of the Holy Spirit, who is alive and active in the lives of believers. Scripture is clear; it’s not a question of whether we will encounter spiritual attacks, but when we do, we must be prepared. So suit up, brothers and sisters in Christ, put on the whole armor of God as you stand firm in your faith, rooted in God’s Word, strengthened by the Lord’s power. Join me as we enter the battle each day, knowing that we don’t fight against the flesh, but against the powers of darkness, the prince of this world (Ephesians 6:12). May we cling to the truth that while it may feel that the darkness is winning, God is on the throne and one day, He will come again. Darkness will be defeated once and for all! “Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” - Ephesians 6:13-17 NIV Heavenly Father, we bow before You, and we humbly ask that You equip us for battle. We know, Lord, that there is a spiritual battle that wages all around us. We want to be prepared so that we don’t fall victim to the enemy’s attacks. While he is the prince of the power of the air ( 2 Corinthians 4:4), he is a created being, and You are the creator ( Genesis 1:1). Satan’s power is limited, and he is under your authority. We don’t have to be fearful, but we must be watchful, for the enemy prowls around like a lion, looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). Our adversary’s tactics are not unique, and his mission is simple: “to kill, steal, and destroy” ( John 10:10) God’s creation. As Your Children, we don’t fight alone! You’ve given us a Helper (John 14:26), the Holy Spirit, who teaches and reminds us of Your Truths. Let us feel Your presence, as we buckle the belt of Truth around us, holding up our faith, and giving us the secure confidence and support of the Scriptures. Let us stand firm, as we proclaim the Truth of the gospel, shielding the enemy’s...
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  • Embracing Change This Autumn

    Embracing Change This Autumn
    2025/11/08

    Autumn has a way of stirring change—new rhythms, new challenges, and sometimes, new wounds. Whether you’re navigating loss, transition, or a season that feels heavier than you expected, Isaiah 41:10 offers a grounding truth: God upholds you with His righteous right hand. Even when change feels overwhelming, His presence remains steady, strong, and unchanging.

    Highlights

    • Seasons shift, but God’s presence stays constant and close.

    • Painful change—loss, transition, uncertainty—can become part of a redeemed story in God’s hands.

    • Isaiah 41:10 reminds us that God strengthens, helps, and upholds us.

    • God goes before us and delights in us, offering peace in the midst of upheaval.

    • Change doesn’t get the final word—God does.

    • Leaning into Scripture and prayer can anchor your heart during difficult transitions.

    • His love brings the hope needed to face whatever lies ahead.

    Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide

    Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas!

    Full Transcript Below:

    Embracing Change This Autumn
    By Vivian Bricker

    Bible Reading:
    “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” - Isaiah 41:10

    Throughout the seasons, we face various changes. Depending on your own individual experiences, some seasons hold more changes than others. When I was a kid, autumn was a major season of change because it was when I started school, had to figure out my class schedules, and tried to make new friends.

    I remember this caused me immense anxiety. I had to switch to an entirely new school when I entered middle school, and I didn't know anyone there. My sixth-grade year held a few massive changes that ultimately brought a lot of pain into my life. Due to bullying, my mom had to take me out of public school and started homeschooling me with my sisters for the following school year.

    Seasons of change come and go in our lives. Maybe this autumn happens to be a big season of change for you. Changes aren’t always bad, but it’s the tough ones that seem to leave the biggest marks on our lives. Perhaps you’ve lost a loved one, walked away from a marriage, or lost a job. Bring any of these pains and set them at the foot of the cross. Allow Jesus to transform these painful changes into part of your story; one where He is changing ashes to beauty.

    Intersecting Faith & Life:

    God tells us, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). As God says in this passage, He is with us, He will strengthen us, help us, and uphold us with His righteous right hand. Regardless of the changes that are going on this autumn, He is still with you, and He will keep your heart steady.

    Some changes can feel unbearable, but they can become manageable when we know the Lord is with us. God goes before us, regardless of the storm we are facing. He takes great delight in us and rejoices over us with singing (Zephaniah 3:17). This can give us the strength that we need to face what is ahead.

    Turn to Him today and let His love give you the hope you need. The change you are facing may feel overwhelming, but it does not get the final word. God has already defeated all things. Whether this autumn brings much change or not, we know God is with us always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:20). May we all lift His Name in praise and worship today.

    Change can be hard. What are some changes you have had to go through in previous seasons? Did these changes impart any lasting lessons?

    What are some ways you can be reminded of God’s love and strength this autumn? Try a daily Bible study or prayer journal that can help you stay focused on His unchanging love.

    Further Reading:

    Matthew 1:23

    Romans 8:31

    Psalm 23:1-6

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

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    5 分