In this episode of The Crosswalk Devotional, we examine the quiet yet powerful impact of subtle sin on our spiritual lives. Often, it's the small compromises we make that can lead us away from God's intended path. We’ll discuss how these hidden struggles can drain our strength and disrupt our relationship with Him. By sharing personal stories and biblical wisdom, we’ll highlight the importance of self-reflection and vigilance in our faith. Together, we’ll explore practical ways to recognize and confront these subtle temptations, helping us to regain our spiritual momentum.

Join the Conversation: We want to hear from you! Have you faced subtle sins that have impacted your journey? Share your insights with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. What steps have you taken to strengthen your faith in the face of distractions?

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Subtle Sin Steals Our Strength and Sets us Back

By Keri Eichberger

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. (Hebrews 12:1) 

There’s a bible verse I keep getting tripped up on. Though, I’ve continued to feel flames of encouragement when I read a certain portion of these well-known words in Hebrews Chapter 12. It’s the ones about running the race marked out for us with perseverance. It seems many like to isolate that snippet, which is really a section of a longer scripture. And I’ve at times wondered why that is. I love this part of the verse for the desire it stirs up in me to embrace perseverance. But when I look to the preceding words to clue in on how we might tap into such resilience, it puzzles me. Because it talks about sin. Saying we should throw it off and that it hinders us. 

Well, what does sin really have to do with perseverance? I’d definitely like to know if it’s what sets us back and squashes our ability to persevere. Because I’ve felt the weighing and wearing down of the world lately, and I sure need perseverance to keep moving on the road God has marked out for me. 

Do you need swells of strength and stamina to plow through too? Sure you do. Life wears us all down sometimes.

I opened my bible, sat, and stared at the entirety of the verse yesterday. Specifically the words “sin” and “easily entangles.” And simultaneously considering the words that followed about running with perseverance, I pictured myself on a road getting tangled and tripped up. Acknowledging there would have to be something specific in my path in order to hold me back or down. I was seeing this verse telling me that sin does that. The NLT version says “let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up.” The bible is clearly saying sin sets us back. Which means if we can rid ourselves of sin, we might experience an opposite effect, a releasing of resistance allowing us to move forward. With more strength. 

We know that sin separates us from God. And that God is our strength. Therefore, because he is our source of strength, the more we stay in sin, the more we’re separated from our ability to persevere. And as I kept leaning in, I began to wonder if that had anything to do with my weariness. I want to persevere, and have been praying for this reinforcement. But am I being held back because of my own sin? I never thought of myself as a blatant sinner, but I also think this is the way the enemy is sneaky with us. Because actually, we are all guilty—myself included. But it’s the subtle sins woven through our everydays that we easily become blind to. 

I kept digging deeper into what God wanted to reveal. I wanted to expose every sin Satan was trying to hide from me, to throw off every hindrance, and run my race. So I did a quick search on biblical sin. And there it was. There they were. Many of my struggles staring me square in the face. Pride, comparison, and greed name a few that convicted my heart. Just as ugly and guilty as the seemingly worst of them. Little weights and trip ups holding me down and setting me back.

What subtle sins can you confess that might be causing weight and weariness in the marathon of your life? Consider the not so obvious. Comparison that strives to the point of crash and burnout. Envy that constantly covets what others have. Greed that hungers for more and knocks you down with discontentment. Pride that drives you harder to be the best and slaves you to success and people-pleasing. Or anger, laziness, lack of forgiveness. You name it, every subtle sin weighs us down and steals our strength.

It became clear. All sin drives us away from God and away from his strength that allows us to sail more smoothly through. This verse tells us that. And it tells us to get rid of it. Then what I also saw was the relevance of the very beginning of the verse, reading, “since we are surrounded by such a cloud of witnesses.” This intro tells me God’s people are part of his perseverance plan. His plan to expose our sin, and eradicate it. We all have sin, but we can’t receive the benefits of its removal if it stays. If we don’t identify it, confess it to God and others, and release it in repentance and strides to step away from it. 

Intersecting Faith and Life:

For the sake of the perseverance we all long for, let’s reflect on the subtle sins surrounding our lives. I want to encourage us both today to investigate and identify all our tendencies toward the sins tripping us up, and to ask God to help us run from them. Because when we do, we will find our way closer to the Lord. We will find increased strength. And we will find perseverance to keep running along the purpose-filled path he has planned just for us.        

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In this episode of The Crosswalk Devotional, we celebrate the invaluable gift of friendship and the profound impact it has on our spiritual journey. Friends are not only companions but also sources of encouragement, accountability, and joy. We’ll discuss the biblical foundations of friendship, exploring how God intended for us to support one another through life’s challenges. Through heartfelt stories and scripture, we’ll highlight the qualities of true friendship and how cultivating these relationships can enrich our lives and strengthen our faith.

Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear from you! What role do friends play in your faith journey? Share your stories and appreciation for your friends with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. How have your friendships impacted your relationship with God?

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In Praise of Friends

By Aaron D’Anthony Brown

“One with many friends may be harmed, but there is a friend who stays closer than a brother.” (Proverbs 18:24, CSB)

The Making of a Friend

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of reconciliation, especially when that reconciliation involves two friends. There’s a certain euphoria that happens when misunderstandings get resolved, and you’re suddenly on the same page again. These moments bring us closer. Not only that, but they put life into perspective. The friend that we thought meant something means so much more. And that prior conflict so much less.

There’s no sure way to find a friend, even in church or through tireless prayers and countless attempts. Yet, even without a precise formula, we know a friend when we find one. We know that friends are made through hard times and tough conversations. We know that they are present when we need them the most and even when we don’t need them at all. Not every time, but definitely when it counts.

These great people enrich our lives in more ways than one. We ought to thank God for the opportunity to receive them. Moreover, if Scripture is any indication, we ought to show them praise for being who they are.

Intersecting Faith & Life:

If we reflect long enough, why we ought to appreciate our friends is clear, but what’s not always so obvious is how we can show them our appreciation. Here are some practical ways you can shower your friends with praise today:

One important thing to do is spend time together. When life gets busy, sometimes relationships unintentionally fall by the wayside. Texts we once exchanged with friends become less frequent. As do our phone calls. When there’s less communication, chances are, you’re not hanging out as much. This doesn’t mean the relationship is over, and you’re no longer friends, but there’s value in continuing to invest in one another, no matter the stage of life. Why? Quality time is a sign of gratitude, importance, and a way of serving others. Friends benefit from receiving that the same as we do.

Today, give your friend a call and spend five minutes, or longer, talking on the phone. If you’re feeling really ambitious, bust out the planner and find a day to get together. Go for a walk in the park, dine in at a restaurant, or just schedule a visit.

Another way to show praise is to tell your friend what he or she means to you. For some, actions are more than enough to say I see you, and I love you. For others, words of affirmation go a long way. They like to hear about your love, not just see it. If you want to tell someone what they mean to you, consider calling them up to tell them over the phone or in person. If you have a creative bone in you, you could write something out in a letter or song. 

Don’t forget to also thank God for your friends. He blesses us with these relationships, comforts us when we’re in need of them, and guides us when we want to restore them. Whether you have one, two, or more, in a culture where everyone foolishly calls everyone friend, it is a blessing from on high to just have one.

Pray for your friends too. They do so much for us. Advice, encouragement, accountability, keeping us company, the list goes on and on. We should thank God for them, but we should also pray that He would bless them. We can give them good gifts, but what God can give them is so much better. Pray for them and their families, their health, their goals, and even their friends.

Do right by them. Or, in other words, be for them what they have been for us. Just as we hope that our friends will keep us on the straight and narrow, we ought to do the same for them. Doing so ensures that we will have a relationship that stands the test of every trial and even time itself. 

Further Reading (and Listening):

• Proverbs 17:17
• 1 Corinthians 15:33
• Proverbs 13:20
• Proverbs 27:6
• Psalm 27:17
• “Friends” by Marvin Winans & The Perfected Praise Choir

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In this episode of The Crosswalk Devotional, we explore the beautiful and transformative journey of pursuing God's presence in our daily lives. Our relationship with God is not just about rituals or routines; it’s about cultivating a deep, personal connection with Him. We’ll discuss the significance of seeking His presence through prayer, worship, and reflection, and how these practices can enrich our spiritual walk. Through inspiring stories and biblical examples, we’ll discover the joy and peace that comes from being fully present with God, and how His presence can guide us through life’s ups and downs.

Join the Conversation: We want to hear from you! How do you pursue God’s presence in your life? Share your experiences and insights with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. What moments have you felt closest to God, and how has that impacted your faith journey?

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12 Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me.’ 13 If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.”

14 The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

15 Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.  Exodus 33:12-15

While at an event intended to encourage and inspire women in ministry, I sensed God asking me to step down from mine. This was both difficult and welcomed. I grieved as I reflected upon all the ways the Lord had grown the organization from four local speakers to a team of 30 with global impact. But I knew it was time to walk away. I’d been rushing from one event and project to the next for so long, I’d lost my joy and my vision. 

Worse, obligation had clouded God’s voice. I needed space to simply rest in Him, and so I relinquished my position and my team to someone else and spent the next year rediscovering the beauty and goodness of God.   

While the Lord never asked Moses, the man called to lead His newly freed people, to abdicate his role, today’s passage indicates he would’ve done so without hesitation. If you’re familiar with Scripture, you might remember the circumstances surrounding his and God’s conversation. Shortly prior, God summoned Moses to Mt. Sinaia to give him and the ancient Hebrews instructions regarding how to love Him and one another well. Moses remained on the mountain for forty days and forty nights. In his absence, the people regressed to their old ways, talked Moses’s brother into making them a calf idol, and worshiped it in shamefully sinful ways. 

God was not pleased! He told Moses that He would do everything He’d said. He would bring the Israelites to the agriculturally rich land He’d long  promised them and their forefathers, and He would drive out all of its occupants. Only, He would do this through an angel. He Himself wouldn’t accompany them.

In other words, Moses could receive all of the blessings—achievement, respect, and prestige—without God. 

Moses determined such success came at too high a cost. He prioritized God’s presence above everything else, and was willing to relinquish all else to retain it. I used to think this was because he recognized he couldn’t complete his assignment without the Lord. But remember, God had already assured him of the outcome. It seems, then, that Moses valued his relationship with the Lord more than anything God could or would do for him or through him. 

Moses had experienced the truth later recorded in Psalm 16:11, which reads, “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand” (NIV, emphasis mine). 

Intersecting Life and Faith

Many, if not most of us, recognize our desperate need for God. We’ve experienced the sweetness of praising Him in a sanctuary filled with His Spirit and His people. We know the peace of privately, silently, kneeling before Him. We’ve benefited from His supernatural strength replacing our weakness, and we’ve relished the comfort of His tender embrace. 

Those are moments we wish would never end, while we’re in them. But then, we get busy and distracted by our calendars and agendas. And suddenly, we forget. At least, I do. I lose sight of how beautiful life is, when lived in close connection with my Savior, until my soul becomes depleted. Then, I remember how much I not only need Him, but crave Him. Thankfully, He remains with us, even when we forget Him, gently, but steadily, drawing us back. 

But I’d rather turn to Him before I land in that spiritual desert. One of the best ways to avoid that harsh and discouraging space is to make spiritual disciplines, like prayer and Bible reading, a habit. The more they become a regular part of our lives, the more Jesus becomes a consistent part of our lives as well. 

Further Reading:

John 15:1-11

Luke 10:38-42

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In this episode of The Crosswalk Devotional, we tackle the important topic of financial stewardship and the dangers of allowing money to dictate our lives. While financial resources are essential for daily living, Scripture warns us against letting wealth become our master. We’ll discuss how to cultivate a healthy perspective on money, emphasizing generosity, contentment, and trust in God’s provision. Through biblical insights and real-life stories, we’ll explore practical steps to ensure that our relationship with money honors God and enriches our lives rather than controls them.

Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear from you! How do you keep money from becoming your master? Share your stories and strategies with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. What lessons have you learned about financial stewardship that you wish you had known earlier?

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Forbid Money to Be Your Master

By Kelly Balarie

“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” – Matthew 6:24 

Sharing coffee, my friend revealed a deep struggle with me.

“Kelly,” they essentially conveyed, “I fear when I only have a little money. When I see only a couple hundred dollars in my bank account, I get stressed and afraid. Money rules my countenance. Yet, now I am seeing that I have made money more of a lord, than the Lord. Money rules over how I feel, act, react and it causes me tangible stress.”

My friend feared money. And my friend was right – what we fear, lords over us.  Fear makes it seem like -- what we fear -- has the greatest dominion. It gets right up in our face. Then, because this overwhelming feeling seems so real, fear makes us serve that fear – more than the Lord.

Instead of asking, “God, what do you will me to do today,” a person in these shoes may say, “What can I do to be okay? How do I save my life?” Their mind gets preoccupied with the problem.

Fear makes self-preservation a top priority. Fear makes itself master. Fear sends its subjects into endless ruminations on how they can make everything okay. 

How is fear lording over you? Is money being raised up as your master?

Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” – Matthew 6:24 

With prices going up and with the cost of living increasing, for many, money is tighter than ever. But, still, money is not lord; the Lord is Lord of all. He is Lord of of heaven and earth just as much as He is Lord of all finance.

We never serve money – neither the lack or abundance of it. Instead, our money serves Him and His cause. All the money we have is from Him and by Him. He owns it all. In this, we can give thanks. God knows exactly what we need, when we need it, and money is a tool for His glory.When we lack finances the best thing to do is to surrender all our finances to God, and to put our trust in God. Here, we get back on track. We remember it is not money that is in charge, because God is always in charge.

God knows exactly what we need; His nature is Provider.

Intersecting Faith & Life:

What are you fearing? How might money be lording over your life? Are you trusting your bank account more than God? What might it look like to surrender afresh to God? What would it look like for you to really trust Him?

Kelly uplifts believers with boosts of faith; find encouragement by getting Kelly’s blog posts by email. Kelly, creator of the “Hear God’s Voice” podcast, is also a blogger, national speaker, and author of Take Every Thought Captive, Rest Now, Battle Ready, and Fear Fighting. Kelly, a real cheerleader of faith, loves seeing the power of prayer in live action. She loves seeing the look on people’s faces when they realize –God is faithful! Kelly’s work has been featured on The Today Show, CBN’s 700 Club, Relevant and Today’s Christian Woman. 

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In this episode of The Crosswalk Devotional, we explore the transformative power of Scripture in guiding our lives. The Bible serves as a lamp for our feet and a light for our path, illuminating our journey through the challenges and uncertainties we face. We’ll discuss how engaging with God’s Word can provide clarity, direction, and comfort, especially in moments of doubt or confusion. Through personal testimonies and biblical insights, we’ll uncover practical ways to deepen our relationship with Scripture, allowing it to shape our decisions and illuminate our daily lives.

Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear from you! How has the Word of God guided you in your life? Share your stories and favorite verses with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. What impact has Scripture had on your journey?

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Let the Word Light Your Path

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Psalm 119:105

“Should I take this new job or not?”

This was a difficult decision for me to make. Taking on more responsibility meant less time for me to be available for my family, and I wanted to take it seriously. I prayed about it, but I received nothing but silence from God. I didn't know what to do, so I searched Scripture. 

As I searched scripture, I read John 6:27, “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that gives you eternal life…” I realized that I was taking the job because I was finding my worth and value in how much I made. I was working to earn money, which quickly faded away, disregarding the eternal impact God cares about. I quickly realized my identity was forged from how much money was in my pocket. 

If I made less money than I felt I was worth, my identity was in cash, not God. I'd forgotten that God is Lord of all. He's the one who gives us our daily bread. He's the one who provides for us and gives us everything we need. Our worth and value are not formed in what we do but rather who he is. 

That's the type of identity God wants for all of us. Whether we make a lot less money for the work we do or make a lot of money for the work we do, our identity will never be formed through cash. Money comes and goes. 

Money does not define us. Once I realized the more profound issue behind why I was struggling with taking the job, I realized that by taking the job, I would forge my identity in my career and not in God. By consulting the Lord in scripture, the scripture illuminated my mind to the deeper issue that was going on.

Often, we have deeper issues that fuel the decisions we make in life. If we have problems unprocessed within our soul: unforgiveness, resentment, rage, anger, and unforgiveness, we will allow those deep issues to skew how we see the world. It will become a hindrance between knowing God and living each day as a child of the king.  

Scripture is not something to merely check off a to-do list. Its purpose is to illuminate our life. It is to illuminate our past to see how to get where we want to go. God calls us to proclaim the gospel to the masses. But we can't do that when we have unprocessed issues in our soul. 

When our greed for money and deep feelings of worth and value are rooted in things other than God, the Scriptures cannot illuminate our path. However, when we effectively deal with the issues in our soul, process our hurt, forgive others, and embrace our identity as God's children, the word of God can genuinely illuminate our path. 

Take a moment and analyze your life. Are there any issues in your soul that you have not fully processed? Do you have unforgiveness toward others? Do you have unprocessed trauma that you have stuffed rather than dealing with effectively? Have you allowed bitterness, rage, or anger to rule your life? Carve out sometime within the next week to spend some quiet time with God. Take your time with him. Spend extended times simply praying. 

Ask the Lord to recall anything hindering you from having a relationship with him. When these issues come to mind, deal with them. Cry if you must. Pour out your heart to God. Tell him everything that's going on in your life. You may be surprised to find how cathartic it is. At worst, you'll leave your time feeling lighter because God has carried your burdens. At best, you will have given your issues to the one who can turn any situation around for his good. 

Father, let us be people whose word illuminates our path. Please help us understand the deeper reasons we do what we do. Let us allow scripture to penetrate our hearts, transform our minds, and lead us to repentance. Let us be different people because we read your word and allowed it to transform our hearts. Amen. 

Intersecting Faith and Life

Are there areas in your soul that have gone unprocessed? In what ways can you process that trauma today?

Further Reading

Proverbs 3:5-6

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In this episode of The Crosswalk Devotional, we delve into the empowering theme of strength and courage in the face of adversity. Life can often present challenges that leave us feeling weak or afraid, but God calls us to rise up with confidence and faith. We’ll explore what it means to be strong and courageous, drawing inspiration from biblical figures who exemplified these qualities in their own trials. Through their stories and our reflections, we’ll uncover practical steps to cultivate strength and courage in our daily lives, reminding ourselves that God is with us every step of the way.

Join the Conversation: We want to hear from you! How have you found strength and courage during tough times? Share your experiences with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. What verses or prayers have inspired you to be brave in challenging situations?

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Full Transcript Below:

Be Strong and Courageous

By Megan Conner

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Josh. 1:9, NIV)

With the turn of the calendar, comes a new year. For most of us, this is a time to reflect on what has been and look forward with anticipation towards what will come.  Perhaps you are someone who loves the new year.  A fresh start, a blank page – it is all so inspiring.  The sky is the limit.  Or maybe, you are on the other side of the coin and feel a bit overwhelmed or apprehensive about what the unknown future might bring. I think I probably land somewhere in the middle.  As a writer, a metaphorical blank page excites me, but it can also terrify me.  What about you?

I know for many; the new year incites an eagerness for what is ahead.  These same individuals often ponder and pray over a “word of the year” that they sense God is speaking to their hearts. Once discovered, they raise this word or phrase like a banner over their lives for the next twelve months.  I had not attempted this practice myself until two years ago. During that gray, nebulous week between Christmas and New Year’s, I struggled with what was ahead. I really did not want to “take on” a new year.  I felt like I had barely survived the last one and had very little interest in reliving the experience.  But as I was praying one afternoon, I heard a gentle whisper; a single word – courage.

I have never considered myself courageous in any way.  I learned resilience through the hardships that had come my way, but strength does not always equal courage.  So, when I unintentionally stumbled across this unexpected “word of the year,” I was sure I had misunderstood that still small voice.  This could not be for me. I was not a brave woman. Despite my hesitation, I could not shake the sense that this declaration really was for me.  With very little confidence that I could ever embody the true meaning of the word, I surrendered to the Lord and humbly prayed, “If you really want me to have courage – then YOU will need to give it to me.”

I knew I was not someone who was naturally fearless, but I also recognized I was not alone. The Bible is FULL of followers who struggled to face their own fears.  There is also an abundance of commands and exhortations directed to God’s people saying “fear not” and “be courageous.”  One passage in particular stood out to me from Joshua chapter one. In this short chapter, the phrase “be strong and courageous” is repeated four times. Four – in only 18 verses!  

In this passage, Joshua receives his formal commission from the Lord to go and claim the Promised Land.  This moment was extremely significant for Joshua and the whole Israelite community.  The last time their people faced this same opportunity, their parents and grandparents allowed fear to dictate action and they ended up wandering in the desert for forty years instead of believing in God’s deliverance and provision.  So here they were… again, four decades later, and the mandate is repeated four times: “Be strong and courageous.”  I don’t think this is a coincidence.  Perhaps it needed to be declared four times as a symbolic reminder of each decade spent in the wilderness.  Much like Peter repeating “You know I love you” three times (one for each denial) when he spoke with Jesus in John chapter 21. God knew they would need this repetitious reminder, just like He knew I would need it as well.

What about you? Do you need to be reminded of God’s call to forge ahead with courage? If so, like the Israelites of old, let’s recall the bravery of Joshua who led the people to the Promised Land, and the second Joshua, our Savior Jesus Christ, who leads us all to the eternal Promised Land.  Let’s us heed the command of the Lord and press onward in faith.  He will be with us wherever we go.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Josh. 1:9, NIV)

Intersecting Faith & Life:

Is there something you have sensed the Lord is leading you to do that you have been too worried or scared to act upon? What do you think is holding you back?  How can you look to scripture to gain confidence and encouragement to take those first small steps of faith?  Read through the additional passages offered and notate any specific scriptures that might serve as reminders the next time you need to be strong and courageous.

Further Reading:

Joshua 1

Duet. 31:6

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In this episode of The Crosswalk Devotional, we explore the powerful theme of persevering in prayer. Life's challenges can sometimes make us feel like giving up, but God calls us to persist in our conversations with Him. We’ll discuss the importance of maintaining a consistent prayer life, even when answers seem delayed or circumstances feel discouraging. Through biblical examples and inspiring stories of faith, we’ll discover how perseverance in prayer can deepen our relationship with God and strengthen our resolve. Join us as we encourage one another to keep praying, trusting that God hears us and is at work, even when we can’t see it.

Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear from you! How have you persevered in prayer during difficult times? Share your stories with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. What breakthroughs or lessons have you experienced through your commitment to prayer?

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Full Transcript Below:

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In this episode of The Crosswalk Devotional, we emphasize the vital importance of prioritizing time with Jesus in our busy lives. Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily responsibilities, it can be easy to push our spiritual connection to the sidelines. We'll discuss practical ways to cultivate a meaningful relationship with Christ, exploring how intentional time spent with Him can transform our hearts and minds. Through personal testimonies and scriptural insights, we’ll uncover the blessings that flow from making Jesus our top priority. Join us as we encourage one another to carve out sacred moments in our day, reminding ourselves that intimacy with God is the foundation of a fulfilling life.

Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear from you! How do you prioritize time with Jesus in your daily routine? Share your stories with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. What impact has spending time with Him had on your life?

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Full Transcript Below:

35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. 36 Simon and his companions went to look for him, 37 and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!”

38 Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” Mark 1:35-38

Burnout is brutal, y’all, especially coming out of the crazy holiday season where many of us found our already full schedules overloaded. We know we need a break but can’t figure out how to take one without causing our lives to implode. Maybe you’re a working parent tending to little ones, a ministry leader trying to meet significant needs in your congregation, or a manager attempting to coral challenging employees. 

If that’s you, I wonder how today’s passage hits. Does it stir within you inspiration or frustration? When my daughter was young, my husband often worked over seventy hours each week and frequently traveled. Because we’d recently moved, without family nearby, I hadn’t developed a support system to help alleviate my load. 

I prayed for help in the form of an affordable babysitter. God provided by encouraging me to form reciprocal relationships with other parents. I also sensed Him telling me to slow down. Initially, that felt impossible. But as I continually brought my needs and concerns to Him, He helped me find ways to simplify some of my most time-consuming tasks, eliminate others, and prioritize the care of my soul. 

He also helped me realize the message my actions conveyed to my daughter. I could model, and thereby train, a lifestyle of hurry, stress, irritability and exhaustion. Or I could show her what it looked like to make the most important thing, my relationship with Christ, the most important thing. I didn’t do this perfectly, nor did my spiritual practices remain the same each season. But I tried to follow the Spirit’s leading each day and to train her to do the same.

This was how Jesus consistently lived. Considering today’s passage, pause to imagine the impact of His behavior on His disciples. Although this was early in His ministry, He had gathered quite a crowd of desperate, hurting people. The hungry who worried about having enough food for their children. The paralyzed, the terminally ill, those enslaved to demons, and isolated by leprosy. 

The disciples hadn’t been following Him for long, nor did they have any ministry experience prior. Suddenly, they were thrust into the equivalent of a Billy Graham crusade multiplied by ten. Except, in this case, anguished cries replaced the sound of songs and praise. The emotional weight of it all, to be confronted with such suffering, must have felt overwhelming. 

The disciples appeared to respond like many of us might—with a panicked desire to get busy. More accurately, they wanted Jesus, the One with supernatural powers able to revive the dying (John 4:46-54) and free the oppressed. Only, they couldn’t find Him. The disciples awoke one morning confronted a throng of anguished people outside their door, the hungry, sick, demon-possessed, and lame, but no Jesus. 

I don’t know how long they searched for Him, but I can easily sense the exasperation in Mark 1:37 when they said, “Everyone is looking for you!”

In other words, “Where have you been, Jesus? Don’t you know how much these people need you?”

I love Jesus’ response in the following verse. He didn’t feel compelled to explain Himself. He simply, and presumably, calmly, replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.”

Intersecting Life and Faith

This biblical account teaches us a few things. First, we might always encounter more needs than we are able to meet. There will always be people clamoring for our attention or help. And God wants us to love our people well. But in order to do so, we also need to take time to spiritually refuel—even if that means leaving our loved ones or friends exasperated. 

Jesus’ behavior also reminds us that we don’t need to become defensive when someone questions how or when we connect with God. We don’t have to explain ourselves to others. Granted, the Holy Spirit might invite us to do so, as He did with Jesus on other occasions. But may we do so by His leading and with the quiet confidence of one who knows they are indeed following God. 

I also find it intriguing that Scripture doesn’t define how much time we should spend connecting with God. In fact, much of Jesus’ ministry was inviting people to break free from adherence to rules to embrace a gentle, relational encounter with Him where we learn to recognize and follow to His voice. 

And finally, this account also shows us that we can’t remain in our figurative prayer closets forever. We sit with Jesus, through prayer, worship and Bible reading, so that we can love well our friends, family, and whomever the Lord brings our way. 

Further Reading:

Psalm 63:1-8

Psalm 16:2-11

Colossians 4:2

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In this episode of The Crosswalk Devotional, we delve into the inspiring call to give God our best work, no matter where we find ourselves. Life can often feel overwhelming, with distractions and demands pulling us in every direction. But what does it truly mean to offer our best to God? We'll explore biblical teachings and practical insights that encourage us to approach our tasks with excellence and intention. Through stories of individuals who transformed their work into acts of worship, we’ll discover how dedicating our efforts to God not only glorifies Him but also brings fulfillment and purpose to our lives. Join us as we challenge each other to strive for excellence and remember that our work is an extension of our faith.

Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear from you! In what ways have you dedicated your work to God? Share your stories with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. How has giving your best work changed your perspective on your daily tasks?

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Full Transcript Below:

Give God Your Best Work

By: Whitney Hopler

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” – Colossians 3:23-24, NIV 

The Strasbourg Cathedral in France stands as a monument that shows devotion to God from many people over many years. Construction of this architectural masterpiece began in 1015, and wasn’t completed until 1439 – more than 400 years later. Generations of people gave their best work to build an awe-inspiring place of worship that honored God, knowing they would never live to see the finished cathedral themselves. One striking feature is the Pillar of Angels – a massive pillar built in the 1200s that supports the cathedral’s ceiling and features many angels carved into its stone sides. Right across from the Pillar of Angels, stonemasons carved a man with a watchful expression on his face as he looks at the pillar. The story goes that the man was carved to keep watching the pillar over the years, to make sure that it doesn’t fall. The masons did such excellent work building the pillar that the man is still watching it more than 800 years later. The people who worked on the cathedral gave their best – not for their own fame, but to glorify God. They gave God their best work, as an offering to the Lord. 

In our world today, it’s easy to lose sight of why we work hard. Too often, our efforts are driven only by a desire for money or personal recognition. But God invites us to see our work differently. No matter what kind of work we do from day to day, our work is meant to be part of our worship. As Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us, God wants our best work, given wholeheartedly. 

Your own work matters to God – even when it may seem insignificant or routine to you – because you’re an important part of the greater work God is doing in the world. When you give God your best work, you’re honoring God and participating in something good that has eternal value. 

Working with all your heart means to put your best efforts into what you do, because you’re working for God, and God is watching. You don’t need to be perfect; you only have to do the best you can with the resources and abilities God has given you. Jesus himself modeled this during his earthly life. As a carpenter, Jesus worked with his hands, likely making things like tables, chairs, or construction beams with care and precision. As a teacher and healer doing ministry work, Jesus worked hard to give his best, as well. 

One of the hardest parts of working “for the Lord” is letting go of the need for immediate results or recognition. Not every task will have a visible impact. Some efforts may go unnoticed by other people. But just as the workers of Strasbourg Cathedral trusted that their personal contributions were part of a greater masterpiece, you can trust God to bring beauty out of your work in the best timing. 

God can use your faithfulness in ways you can’t imagine now. The attention you give to a mundane task can inspire someone else to do the same and ultimately lead to great goals being accomplished over time. The care you pour into raising your children can ripple through future generations. The creative project you work on with dedication can improve many people’s lives when it’s ready. Nothing done for God is ever wasted. 

So, while you work, remember that you are really serving Christ, not human masters. This truth frees you from striving to please people or worry about temporary goals. Your inheritance is not a paycheck or a promotion – it’s the eternal joy of knowing you’re pleasing God and that God will bring good results out of your work. 

Intersecting Faith and Life

As you consider how it’s important to give God your best work, reflect on these questions:

• How can you change your perspective to see your daily work as an act of worship?

• What does it mean to “work with all your heart” in the specific types of work you do?

• Are there areas of your work where you’ve been tempted to hold back instead of giving your best? How can you change that?

• How does trusting God with the results of your work bring you peace?

Further Reading

Ephesians 6:7

1 Corinthians 10:31

Proverbs 16:3

Matthew 5:16

Galatians 6:9

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In this episode of The Crosswalk Devotional, we embark on an inspiring journey titled "The Yes Trip." We’ll explore the transformative power of saying "yes" to God’s calling and the adventures that await when we step out in faith. Life is full of opportunities that challenge us to trust God and embrace new experiences, and saying yes can lead to unexpected blessings and growth. Through biblical stories and personal reflections, we’ll discuss how obedience and openness can shape our lives and deepen our relationship with God. Join us as we encourage one another to take bold steps and respond to His invitations with a heart full of trust.

Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear from you! Have you ever said yes to God in a way that changed your life? Share your stories with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. How has embracing God’s calling led you on your own unique journey?

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The Yes Trip: How Saying Yes to God Can Result in Unexpected Blessings

By Megan Conner

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isa. 6:8 (NIV)

Have you ever heard of the concept of a “Yes Trip?”  It is a trip or vacation you decide to take where every time you ask a question the response is automatically - yes.  “Oh, look!  There’s a sign for the world’s biggest pie, should we stop there and check it out?” YES! “Scenic route available.  Should we take it?” YES!  “Should we splurge on the hotel with a view?”  YES!  And the list goes on and on.

My husband and I tried this over ten years ago when we were not able to plan anything special for our anniversary due to work and other obligations.  It ended up being one of, if not possibly, the best anniversary we have ever celebrated.  We literally tossed a coin when we got into the car to determine if we would drive north or south, then said yes to every other question that arose during our journey.  Including a random rest stop which sold “Turkish Delight,” the famous treat in The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe from the Chronicles of Narnia series written by C.S. Lewis. “Should we try Turkish Delight?” YES!  If there was one question that might have deserved a no, it was that one… How in the world was this the dessert that Edmund sold out for with the White Witch?  Apologies to anyone who loves Turkish Delight…  

What made this this trip so special was not just the spontaneity, but all of the unexpected experiences and memories made that would never have happened otherwise.  If we had planned out an itinerary, which is traditionally my preferred way to travel, we would have missed out on moments we still treasure over a decade later.  

What would it look like if we applied this same practice to our walk with the Lord?  Some of the most poignant and significant stories in the Bible stem from those who said yes to God with little to no understanding of what they were agreeing to.  Mary said yes when asked if she was willing to divinely conceive and carry the Son of God.  Abraham agreed to leave everything and relocate his family to an unknown land.  Peter, Andrew, James, and John all left their boats and livelihoods to follow Jesus without any idea of what was ahead or how they would continue to provide for their lives.  Moses said yes to God when asked to travel back to Egypt, confront Pharoah, and free his enslaved people.  Noah built an ark when no one had ever heard of rain falling from the sky.

Each of these believers chose to say yes to God, without reservation.  Look at the impact their choices have had on generations of people.  Millions have learned of the love of God because of their willingness to say a three-letter word – yes.  What if, instead of attempting to outline our own destinies, we viewed our lives as a journey, even further, an adventure?

We are taking a trip from the temporal to the eternal.  We know our final destination but we do not know the roads that we will take to get there.  Instead of incessantly worrying, planning, and stressing over every detail, what if we shifted our perspective and decided this life will be our “Yes Trip,” with the Lord?  If all of the followers listed above made such a significant impact for the kingdom with a simple yes, what could God do in and through you?  If it is anything like my special anniversary so many years ago, I can imagine you will be blessed beyond imagination.  

Intersecting Faith & Life:

How does the idea of viewing our Christian walk as a “Yes Trip” change your perspective on unplanned or maybe even unwanted circumstances in your life?  Do you consider yourself more of a planner or are you naturally spontaneous?  Either way, how can you step out with blind faith and follow without any assurances of the outcomes ahead?  Are there things you sense God has been leading you to that you have been unwilling to surrender and agree to step out in faith? Take some time today to look through the recommended readings and allow the faith demonstrated by those who have gone before us to encourage you. 

Further Reading:

Isa. 6:1-8

Ex. 3

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In this episode of The Crosswalk Devotional, we tackle the challenging moments when prayer feels difficult and you’re tempted to give up. Life can throw daunting obstacles our way, and it’s not uncommon to feel discouraged in our conversations with God. We’ll discuss the importance of persistence in prayer and how Scripture encourages us to keep seeking, asking, and knocking, even when the answers seem far away. Through inspiring biblical examples and personal testimonies, we’ll explore how to reignite our faith and trust in God’s timing. Join us as we remind one another that prayer is a powerful tool, and even in our weariness, God is listening and working on our behalf.

Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear from you! Have you ever felt like giving up in prayer? How did you find the strength to keep going? Share your stories with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. What practices have helped you stay committed to prayer during tough times?

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Full Transcript Below:

When You Feel Like Giving Up In Prayer    

By Lynette Kittle

 “Pray continually”--1 Thessalonians 5:17

Have you ever faced a situation that looked hopeless, like things just weren’t going to change or work out, yet against all the odds you kept praying? Despite the critics and obstacles faced, did you believe the impossible to happen?

Let’s face it, it’s easy to get tired, weary, and worn out praying for the same situation and people to change, to keep praying past discouragement, hopelessness, and the reality of what is happening. Most of us have heard the stories of people praying the same prayers over decades.

It’s true, though, that Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

As well, the enemy of our soul is at work to telling us that our prayers are misdirected and powerless and to convince us to stop praying altogether. 

But the truth is, more so than most of us, He knows our prayers move the heart of God to accomplish His will on earth. He knows our prayers are powerful and is why he goes to great lengths to thwart them by tripping us up and urging us to believe they are to no avail.

Keep Praying

Still, 1 Corinthians 13:8 reminds us that “love never fails,” and following is a true story of just that, a real-life example of not giving up and reaping a harvest.

In hearing of a dear friend’s daughter and son-in-law separating, God put it on our family’s hearts to pray a simple prayer for them. “Dear God, please don’t let them get divorced.”

It’s not that we discussed how to pray or what to say; it just came out of our mouths in a passionate, heartfelt way and continued to be our prayer for over a decade. 

While our friend was still living, we would hear periodical updates, which at the time didn’t sound promising, yet we kept praying our simple prayer. For over a decade, we continued praying, not knowing what was happening in their marriage.

Although somewhat separated from the situation after the passing of our friend, we kept praying for her daughter’s marriage, even though we didn’t have any updated, inside information of what was happening in their lives, which, looking back, worked to help keep us from backing down on our prayer.

Love Takes Time

Not until over a decade later, through listening to an online interview with her husband, did we finally discover what had taken place all those years we were praying.

As he told the listeners, for almost 12 years they were separated, during which time he was dating, she was not. During all those years, they didn’t divorce. For most of the time, they talked every day and remained best friends until the end of their separation, where they were at odds and not speaking.

Then one day out in public, just like in a movie, he pulled up beside her car in his SUV, not realizing it was her, seeing her through her vehicle’s sunroof—this gorgeous girl talking so animatedly and endearingly. 

Seeing her that moment in a new light, his heart was moved by her beauty, and he realized it was her, and the rest is history. They began dating again and are now reunited as a couple, as a family, spared from divorce.

Jesus Is the Light of the World

In John 12:46, Jesus explained that “I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in Me should stay in darkness.”

In hearing our friend’s story, my heart leaped, knowing the new light he saw his wife in came from God, answering our over decade of prayer.

If you’re praying for someone and not seeing progress, don’t give up. Keep praying. God is at work in their hearts, and it often takes time. 

Not that we’re taking credit for their marriage being saved; that belongs to God. But we believe God moved us to pray for them in the way we did. We also believe He listened, heard our prayers, and answered us.

Psalm 66:19 assures us, “But God has surely listened and has heard my prayer.”

Would they still be married if we hadn’t prayed that prayer? In our hearts, we believe God urged us to pray for His will to be done in their situation, and we believe it was.

Intersecting Faith & Life: Are there prayers God has put on your heart years ago? If so, have you felt discouraged and tempted to give up? If so, ask God to renew you and strengthen you to keep praying.

Further Reading: How to Hang on in Prayer; How to Push through the Weariness of Prayer

https://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/crosswalk-devo/how-to-hang-on-in-prayer-the-crosswalk-devotional.html

https://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/crosswalk-devo/how-to-push-through-the-weariness-of-prayer-the-crosswalk-devotional.html 

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