The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

• God Is Everything We Truly Need

  Desire is part of being human—but Psalm 73:25 reminds us that nothing on earth can satisfy us the way God does. When our plans stall, doors close, or God simply says “not yet,” it’s easy to feel the sting of disappointment. Yet in those very moments, He invites us to rediscover a deeper truth: He is enough. The longings we carry—relationships, opportunities, fulfillment—are not wrong, but they are never meant to replace the One who satisfies the soul. When we release our grip on what we think we need, we often discover that God has already given us everything essential for life, peace, and joy. Highlights Our desires are real, but they can quietly take priority over God without us realizing it. God’s “no” or “not yet” often shapes our character more than His “yes.” Seasons of lack can reveal how fully God satisfies the weary and longing heart (Psalm 107:9). Blessings are gifts, not guarantees—and never substitutes for intimacy with God. Contentment grows when we trust that God withholds nothing we truly need (Psalm 23:1). God is unchanging—faithful in abundance and faithful in scarcity (Malachi 3:6, Hebrews 13:8). Choosing gratitude over discontent quiets fear and centers our hearts on His goodness. 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 Everything We Truly Need By Hannah Benson Bible Reading: “Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.” - Psalm 73:25 ESV. We know that truly, there is no one in heaven that we have but God Himself, and none on earth that we ought to desire besides Him, but that is SO much easier said than done. If you’re anything like me, then there are probably so many desires tucked away in the secret corners of your heart. Hopes and dreams that you treasure in your heart like Mary. What should we do when God says “no”? When God doesn’t give us everything we ask for? How can we truly say with a heart full of faith, “there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you,” when there are other things we want as well? Think about it. What is something you long for? Perhaps a child. A spouse. A new job. About a year ago, the Lord really impressed on my heart a time in my life where every “no” from Him meant to grow and cultivate me into His image felt like a devastating blow to my plans. During one of my moments of discontentment, the Lord whispered to my weary heart, “Am I enough for you?” His words, soft and gentle yet far from condescending, brought an instant prick of conviction to my heart. When did God stop being enough for me? Of course, I thought He was enough. If someone were to ask me if He were enough, I would’ve said yes and thought I was being honest. But when did I start putting things I wanted above God? When did I start seeing the glass as half-empty instead of counting my blessings? I remember moments in my life where there were things I deeply desired - and didn’t have. Friendships are an open door to serve in media ministry, among others. In those seasons of “lack”, God taught me that I really had everything I needed. I may have desired good things, and it didn’t mean God didn’t want to eventually bless me with those things. (After all, God loves to give good gifts to His children). But God wanted to show me that He was enough for my weary soul. I didn’t need a specific job or to serve on a particular project (although that would be nice). I didn’t need to have specific friendships (although I would appreciate them if the Lord chose to bless me with them). As much as I deeply desired those gifts, the truth is, I didn’t “need” any of it. Anything God chooses to bless me with is still His and is a gift. It’s not for my own selfish gain, either, but a tool to further His Kingdom for His glory. “For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things” (Psalm 107:9 ESV). Intersecting Faith & Life: Dear friend, God will certainly bless you with good things. It may not look exactly like you’d thought, but it will be good. We are reassured that the Lord doesn’t change (Malachi 3:6) and again in Hebrews 13:8 (ESV) when the author writes to the Hebrews the promise that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” In our highest moments, when we’re successful, rich, and have everything we could ever want, God is good. But if God never changes, then the opposite is true, too. In our lowest moments, when we are barely making ends meet, and when we’re waiting for a miracle that we’re not even sure will come, God is still good. He loves us and will overflow our cup with His love, comfort, mercy, and grace, riches that far surpass any this world could give. I’ve been on both sides. There are times when I wrestle with a cup that feels as if it’s half-empty. I also know what it’s like to have that same glass overflowing with the love of the Lord. We can either choose to be discontented and experience growing dissatisfaction (and then nothing will ever satisfy, not even if we receive the very thing which we want). Or we can choose to trust that God has given us everything we need (2 Peter 1:3, Philippians 4:19, Psalm 23:1). It is in those moments I find my heart quiets, anxiety stills, and fear flees. And I come to realize that I’ll be okay even if I don’t get what I want because God will not withhold anything I need. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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• Tell of God’s Wonderful Deeds

  Sharing stories of God’s goodness isn’t bragging—it’s obedience. Psalm 9:1 calls us to give thanks with our whole hearts and boldly speak about the wonderful things God has done. In a world filled with criticism, division, and constant noise, our testimonies become powerful reminders that God is still active, still providing, and still working in the lives of His people. Gratitude grows when we speak it out loud, and joy follows when we point everything back to Him. Highlights Testimonies strengthen faith—ours and the faith of those who hear them (Psalm 9:1). Sharing God’s goodness publicly isn’t boasting when the glory goes to Him. Gratitude helps guard our hearts against negativity, comparison, and discouragement. A thankful posture begins with honest self-reflection and, when needed, confession. Blessings—big or small—become fuel for worship when we acknowledge God as their source. Speaking about God’s deeds invites both believers and non-believers to notice His presence. Shifting our mindset from complaint to praise reshapes our spiritual outlook and our witness. 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: Tell of God’s Wonderful DeedsBy: Michelle Lazurek Bible Reading:“I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” — Psalm 9:1 A few months ago, I arranged a meeting with a publisher for two of my clients. Within an hour, we secured two book contracts for them. We were thrilled! Before the publisher ended the call, I asked if she could stay on for a few more minutes. I also had a book I wanted to pitch to them, and by God's grace, I had secured a contract for myself! I wanted to share God’s goodness, so I posted on social media. I couldn’t wait to share about his goodness at that moment. I aimed for it to be a testimony to others struggling to get a contract, letting them know that even though this book had been sitting on my laptop for years, God had finally found a place for it. Although some people later told me that I was bragging about my accomplishments, I truly took it as an opportunity to acknowledge God's goodness. We are called to share what God has done in our lives. In this chaotic world we live in, it's easy to hear criticism on social media and in various parts of our lives. What we need more of are testimonies of how God is moving in and through us. The above verse reminds us that we are to tell of God's wondrous deeds. This is an excellent way for us to keep an attitude of gratitude, especially as we approach the holidays. With all the political posts and division plaguing our country, we need to be people who tell of God's good deeds, not the horrible things we wish we could fix. Take a moment and analyze your life. Are you someone who often tells of God's wondrous deeds? Does this help you keep an attitude of gratitude? Do you find yourself complaining more than rejoicing? Although keeping a thankful attitude can be difficult, it is important to maintain it each day. It may be as simple as counting your blessings, even the ones you take for granted. Other times, it might involve making a grand gesture for someone as an act of kindness to show them Christ’s love in tangible ways. Regardless of the way you choose, tell of God's wondrous deeds. Brag on the Lord. Give him credit for everything in your life. Don't let anything get in the way of you celebrating all that God has done. Have you found that difficult? Analyze your heart. Do you have unconfessed sin or another area of your life that might be hindering you from truly rejoicing in the Lord? Go to Him and confess your sin. Afterwards, take a few moments to get out a blank journal and start writing down your blessings. This will transform your attitude as quickly as possible. Additionally, if you find yourself taking credit for things happening in your life instead of giving credit to God, it's likely your attitude is wrong. Repent of this behavior. Know that God is in control of all things in your life. Everything good you have in your life comes from him. The quicker you can adopt this perspective, the quicker you can change your attitude and pivot it to giving God all the glory he deserves. Vow to tell people of all the wondrous deeds he has done. Take a week and post on social media the great things God has done. Be in tune with the spirit and be on the lookout for all the ways God is working in your life. Be sure to tell others, both through social media and in person, all the things God has done. Do this with believers and non-believers, and you may find that non-believers are attracted to your example. As Christians, we are known more for what we are against rather than what we are for. Let us change our perspective so that people forget about us and always remember the Lord. Father, let us be people who tell of your wondrous deeds. Let us find various ways to celebrate all the things that you are doing. Let us give you all the praise and glory you deserve in multiple ways every day. Amen. Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you find yourself rejoicing or complaining about your life? In what ways can you change your attitude today? Further Reading:Philippians 4:4 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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• Our Suffering Is Not Wasted

  When life feels heavy, it’s easy to wonder if anything good could come from the pain. But 2 Corinthians 1:4 reminds us that God never wastes what we walk through. The comfort He gives us becomes the comfort we offer others. That truth reframes suffering—not as something pointless, but as something God can shape into purpose, compassion, and strength. Our stories, even the hardest chapters, can become lifelines for someone else who needs hope. Highlights God uses our struggles to equip us to comfort others with the same grace we received (2 Corinthians 1:4). Wise mentors and spiritual leaders can help us see purpose in seasons that feel confusing or overwhelming. Suffering often becomes a refining tool—shaping character, deepening faith, and anchoring us more firmly in Christ. Real-life examples remind us that even in pain, God can shine through our attitudes, words, and perseverance. Faith is strengthened through community; we grow by learning from those who have battled before us (2 Timothy 1:5; Hebrews 12:1). God often heals deep wounds in the midst of present struggles, using past hurt to bring present comfort. No season of difficulty is wasted—God works through it, in it, and beyond it. 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: Our Suffering Is Not Wasted By Lauren Fletcher Bible Reading: “He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” - 2 Corinthians 1:4 Early on in a season of struggles with mental health, I reached out to my uncle, a pastor in California, for guidance—I needed someone to help walk me through this tough time. I vividly recall the anxiety and confusion that were a part of my everyday life. I remember both my uncle and I asking the question of why I was going through this situation. In one of our video calls, he compassionately shared that as Christians, our suffering is not wasted. This was a game-changer. In 2 Corinthians 1:4, Paul says that when we suffer, our suffering can be used to help someone else in a future challenge. This verse gave purpose to my suffering. It changed my attitude and made my situation bearable. If God could use this, it was worth it. One of my favorite conversations I’ve had with my uncle is when he shared about his own health issues. He recalled a time when a friend offered to pray for him for healing. He shared how he didn’t necessarily want the health issue to go away until God had finished the work He was doing through it. What he meant was that sometimes, God uses situations to refine us, to work on our character, and sometimes, God also uses situations to reach others. A great example of this is a woman I got to know as I was growing up in the church. Through a mission trip, she had become a close friend. She ended up getting cancer, and one day, I visited her in the hospital. Smiling, she talked to her nurse and told her who her best friend was—Jesus. I was amazed at her attitude during such a hard time. I think of the scripture that says to always be ready to give an account of the hope we have (1 Peter 3:15). My friend continued to hold onto her close relationship with Jesus as she walked through cancer and openly shared with those around her. I learned so much from her. Intersecting Faith & Life: Can you recall a time when something someone else has walked through has helped you? How has it impacted your life? How has it given you a heart of gratitude? As believers, we truly need each other. Our growth depends on others’ help. In 2 Timothy 1:5, Paul writes to Timothy, “I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you.” The author of Hebrews also says, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us” (Hebrews 12:1). Sometimes, God is working something important in us, in our character, or through us, to others. Is there a time when you walked through suffering and it refined you, changed something in you? Can you see the purpose and personal growth, even healing in it? In my own life, I have walked through seasons of suffering where God touched a wound from the past when I was going through something in the present. He brought healing to that place and was present to comfort me. Finally, have you ever faced a challenging situation, whether it was a personal health struggle or a family circumstance? Perhaps it was job-related or a personal relationship issue. Is there something that God used to reach someone else? How did that change your perspective and grow your faith? Be sensitive to who the Lord may bring into your path. Who may He want to reach in their troubles? He may want to comfort them through you. What I have learned from my own suffering is that God will use it. He doesn’t waste it, and He has a plan. Further Reading: 1 Peter 3:15 2 Corinthians 1 2 Timothy 1 Hebrews 12:1 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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• What Jesus Modeled about Gratitude

  Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good practice—it’s a Christ-shaped way of living. Colossians 2:6–7 reminds us that thankful hearts grow strong roots, and Jesus’ life shows us exactly what that looks like. From praising the Father in unexpected moments to giving thanks over a meal that seemed far too small, Jesus modeled a rhythm of gratitude that was thoughtful, generous, and deeply intentional. His example invites us to slow down and notice the countless opportunities we have each day to respond with thanksgiving. Highlights Jesus expressed gratitude with insight—recognizing God’s work even when others overlooked it (Matthew 11:25). He gave thanks generously, blessing God for resources that seemed insignificant and sharing them freely (John 6:11). His gratitude fueled goodness toward others, shaping a life of compassion and service (Luke 6:31; Acts 10:38). Jesus demonstrated thankfulness in everything, from daily provision to His final moments before the cross (Ephesians 5:20; Matthew 26:27). His ultimate act of gratitude came through sacrifice—offering His body and blood for our salvation (Luke 22:19). A thankful life reflects the heart of Christ and keeps us rooted in God’s faithfulness. 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: What Jesus Modeled about Gratitude By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” - Colossians 2:6-7 How many times do we miss opportunities to express gratitude to God? Most likely, for some of us, there are too many for us to count. So, when it comes to learning how to show gratitude, especially to God, where do we look for a mentor? Of course, Jesus tops the list in demonstrating it to us, being perfect in all His ways and actions. After all, He is the Savior of the world, along with being fully man and fully God, understanding both how we as humans think, feel, and respond in earthly situations and also how God views and receives gratitude. How Jesus Modeled Gratitude In looking at Jesus’ life on earth, we discover ways He modeled gratitude, along with how we can follow His example. The following are five ways we can model gratitude to God and those around us, as Christ did on earth. Jesus modeled insightful gratitude. Often, individuals, some Christians included, may miss opportunities to express gratitude, missing the insightfulness Jesus demonstrated in all He did on earth. Matthew 11:25 reveals how Jesus recognized an opportunity to show gratitude to God for revealing to children what is hidden from the intellectual and educated individuals on earth. “At that time Jesus said, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.’” It was an observance and revelation of sorts, yet Jesus took the time, place, and opportunity to publicly express gratitude to God. Jesus modeled generous gratitude. When it came to expressing gratitude to God, Jesus didn’t skip over it, even when it involved a hungry crowd. The Apostle John describes in John 6:11 where, “Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.” Some may feel like five barley loaves and two fish were hardly worth showing gratitude to God, such a seemingly small amount, more like a snack. As well, to share what seemed like an insignificant amount of food so generously, letting people have as much as they wanted. If most of us were sharing it, we probably would have tried to limit it to each person, knowing we started with a small amount. Jesus modeled do-gooder gratitude. Gratitude to God flows through us, encouraging us to express the gratitude we have to God and to others. Jesus says in Luke 6:31, “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Acts 10:38 describes how He accomplished it, “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how He went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with Him.” Jesus modeled thankfulness in everything. Some may laugh at those of us who are continually thanking God for what seem like little things in life, but doing so helps our hearts to remain thankful throughout our days. As Ephesians 5:20 urges, “Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” From sharing a small lunch to sharing the truth about God’s love, Jesus expressed gratitude for all that He had, including laying down His life for us, expressing a heart of gratitude to God His Father. Even when His life on earth was about to end, He modeled it in Matthew 26:27, “Then He took a cup, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you.’” Jesus modeled gratitude through sacrifice. He didn’t hold anything back from us, including the life we receive from His body being broken and blood poured out for our Salvation, as demonstrated in Luke 22:19: “And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” Intersecting Faith & Life: As words to the old hymn go, with hearts full of gratitude, we can sing and thank God for Jesus’ sacrifice. “Thank you, Lord, for saving my soul. Thank you, Lord, for making me whole. Thank you, Lord, for giving to me, Thy great Salvation so rich and free.” Further Reading: 4 Ways Gratitude Can Change Your MindsetMaking Do-Gooding A Way of Life Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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• The Grace of a Quiet Table and a Full Heart

  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 spirit, “It’s okay to put the world aside for a while. It’s okay to step into rest, or joy, or gratitude, or fellowship.” Give it a try. Even if it’s for a simple breakfast, try putting your food on a beautiful dish. Light a candle. Put on some light music. See how it elevates your mood. Take note of how you might experience time differently here. Invite God in. Breathe deeply. Welcome to kairos time. Further Reading: Psalm 23:5 Luke 14:15-24Proverbs 17:1 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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