The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

Gratitude is more than thanking God for your blessings—it also means thanking the people He uses to bring love, encouragement, and support into your life. When someone offers kindness, helps you through a difficult season, or inspires you to grow, their actions can reflect God’s love at work. Yet it’s easy to appreciate people silently without ever telling them how much they mean to us. Philippians 1:3 offers a powerful example of putting gratitude into words, reminding us to thank God for the people who have made a difference in our lives and to express that appreciation directly to them.
Highlights
Recognize God as the source of love: Learn to see the kindness of others as one way God’s love reaches into your life.

Thank the people God uses to bless you: Discover why gratitude should extend beyond prayer to the people who encourage, support, and help you.

Learn from Paul’s example in Philippians 1:3: See how Paul expressed thankfulness for others even while facing loneliness and hardship in prison.

Understand the power of appreciation: A sincere thank-you can encourage someone who feels overlooked, tired, or unsure whether their efforts matter.

Build stronger relationships through gratitude: Expressing appreciation can deepen trust, strengthen friendships, and help relationships grow.

Notice God’s goodness in everyday life: Practicing gratitude can redirect your attention from stress and problems toward the blessings around you.

Put biblical gratitude into action: Find simple ways to thank family members, friends, coworkers, and others who have made a positive difference in your life.

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.
UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org
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Full Transcript Below:
Thank God and People Too
By: Whitney Hopler
Bible Reading:
“I thank my God every time I remember you.” – Philippians 1:3, NIV
I visited my high school journalism teacher, Margo Tyree, years after high school – when I was working as a professional newspaper reporter. God had worked through Mrs. Tyree to show me my career path. Not only that, but Mrs. Tyree encouraged me to overcome my shyness and grow to become more courageous and confident. She also taught me important journalism practices and inspired me to do my very best work. So, I returned to my old classroom to thank her and speak to her class about what it was like to work as a journalist. I also thanked God that day (and many other days) for bringing such a caring teacher into my life.
God is the ultimate source of everything good in the universe. Every single act of love begins with God. When a friend is kind to you, for example, that kindness is ultimately a reflection of God’s love reaching out to you. Recognizing God at work in those experiences helps you remember where your blessings come from.
Most of the time, God chooses to work through his people. God’s love flows through people’s lives, inspiring them to help, listen, or share when other people need something. When people step up to care for you because of love, they’re serving because it was God who led them to do so. Wherever real love is in action, God is the reason, because God is the source of all love.
Because God works through people to bless us, it’s very important that we don’t stop at thanking God alone. We should also thank those people, too! It’s easy to assume people know we appreciate them, but even if they do, we can bless them powerfully by writing or speaking words of gratitude to them. Putting gratitude into action matters.
In Philippians 1:3, the Apostle Paul shows us how to put gratitude into action well. He was sitting in a dark, lonely prison cell. But when he thought of his friends in the church at Philippi, he felt grateful. Paul made sure to tell his friends directly: “I thank my God every time I remember you.” He said he was so thankful for them that every single time he remembered them, he thanked God for letting them be part of his life.
Think about how much good it does when you thank someone. When you let someone know you appreciate their kindness, you give them a wonderful gift. You encourage them to keep doing good things to shine God’s light into the darkness of this fallen world, where lots of people don’t feel appreciated. Many people around you work quietly every single day without knowing if anyone actually cares about the good work they’re trying to do. They might feel tired and discouraged. When you thank them for the positive difference they’ve made in your life, you can remind them that their efforts are truly seen and valued.
Expressing gratitude also changes you. When you make a habit of looking for things to thank people for, you’ll then start noticing the wonder of God’s work in your life instead of focusing on your problems and stress. Gratitude can turn your ordinary relationships into close, lasting friendships built on love and trust.
Today, look around at the people God has placed in your life. Thank God for sending them to walk beside you, and then take the next step: go tell those people how much they mean to you. Send a text, write a short note, give them a call, or visit them in person to thank them for who they are and for what you appreciate about what they’ve done. By thanking God and thanking people too, you can help God’s love flow through your life and into other people’s lives!
Intersecting Faith & Life:
As you consider why it’s important to thank God for the kind people in your life and to thank those people too, reflect on these questions:

Who is one person in your life that God has used to encourage or help you recently?
Why do you sometimes forget to say “thank you” to the people who help you every day?
How does it make you feel inside when someone takes the time to thank you for something kind you did?
What are some simple, creative ways you can express gratitude to your family, friends, or coworkers this week?
How does praying for the people who help you change the way you appreciate them?
Further Reading:
Philemon 1:4
Ephesians 1:16
Romans 1:8
1 Thessalonians 5:18
Colossians 3:15
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How do you respond when someone else receives the blessing you’ve been praying for? You can be genuinely happy for a friend’s success while quietly wrestling with jealousy, disappointment, or grief over an unanswered prayer. These complicated emotions don’t mean you want others to fail; they may reveal how deeply you long for something yourself. In Deuteronomy 34:9, Joshua receives the wisdom and responsibility to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land after Moses’ years of faithful service. Their story reminds us that God’s plans don’t look the same for everyone, and another person’s blessing doesn’t mean God has forgotten you.
Highlights
Learn how to respond when a friend or loved one receives a blessing you have been praying for.

Understand why jealousy and disappointment can coexist with genuine happiness for someone else.

Explore Moses and Joshua’s story in Deuteronomy 34 and what it teaches about faithful service, leadership, and God’s plans.

Discover how to resist comparison and celebrate others without viewing their success as your own failure.

Find encouragement in the truth that God has not forgotten you, even when your prayers seem unanswered.

Reflect on how God’s plans may differ from your expectations and exceed what you can currently imagine.

Consider how to trust God’s faithfulness while continuing to pray, hope, and encourage others through their blessings.

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.
UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org
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Full Transcript Below:
When Someone Else Receives the Blessing You Wanted
By: Laura Bailey
Bible Reading:
Now Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him. So the Israelites listened to him and did what the Lord had commanded Moses. - Deuteronomy 34: 9 NIV
“Laura, I have the best news! Call me as soon as you can!” My friend's cheerful voice played through the speaker on my phone. My heart sank; I knew exactly what she was going to tell me. And well, I was happy for her, truly, but there was a twinge of jealousy? Grief? Annoyance? Maybe.

I dialed her number and braced myself to receive the news. “GUESS WHAT? They accepted my book proposal; I am going to be a published author,” she exclaimed. “I am so excited for you. I know this is something you have desired for a while, and I am glad that the Lord has provided this opportunity,” I responded.

Ok, I know what you are thinking: “That’s not a very genuine response.” But here’s the deal: I was actually extremely happy for my friend. It’s just that, well, I wanted to receive that blessing too. Have you ever felt that way?
Recently, in Bible study, we studied Deuteronomy 34, where we see Moses passing down the leadership role to Joshua. The main takeaways from our lesson were the value of mentorship, the importance of pouring into the next generation to lead, and a highlight of Moses’ lifetime of faithfulness. And while those are timeless truths, I couldn’t help but be caught up in the fact that Moses, after all his work, wasn't going to enter the Promised Land.

Let me give you a little back story. Moses led the Israelites out of captivity in Egypt. It wasn’t an easy task; these people were a bunch of complainers (Numbers 11:1), often questioned Moses (Numbers 14:4), and even worshiped other gods at times (Exodus 32:1). Yet, through all of this, including a 40-year detour in the wilderness, Moses not only stuck with the people, but he also sacrificed and served them well. Moses was faithful, not always flawless, but remained obedient to what God commanded him to do.

There was, however, one incident where Moses decided to go against what the Lord commanded. There was a water shortage, and Moses went before the Lord asking for help. The Lord told Moses to gather people and speak over the rock. Moses did bring the people together, but instead of just speaking to the rock, he struck it twice with his staff. Water gushes out, but the Lord, because of Moses' disobedience, says that he will not enter the promised land (Numbers 21:1-13).

Fast-forward to our key verse, Deuteronomy 34:9, where we see Moses blessing Joshua as he prepares to lead the Israelites into the promised land. Bearing in mind Moses’ history, I can’t help but wonder whether he felt a bit remorseful about Joshua receiving the blessing to enter the land of milk and honey. The Promised Land was the end goal for these people, so naturally, Moses would have thought he would be a part of that experience. Instead, Moses is about to die; he will never set foot in the land that will be a blessing to God’s people. As I meditated on these verses, the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart, enlightening a truth I’d never noticed before about this passage. While Moses didn’t enter the earthly Promised Land, he did enter the eternal Promised Land. What I deemed a slight, a missed blessing, God had something better.
In full transparency, it still stings that my friend received the blessings I, too, desired. But I cling to the truth that God is faithful, and oftentimes the way He answers our prayers and blesses us is far better than we can imagine (Ephesians 3:20). I can cheer on my friend and know that God hasn’t forgotten me, and He hasn’t forgotten you either.

Intersecting Faith & Life:
Do you ever find it difficult to be happy for others who receive the blessing you wanted? How does knowing that God often answers our desires and prayers better than we imagined give you encouragement today?
Further Reading:
A Prayer to Be Happy When God Is Generous to Others
Deuteronomy 34
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Is fear a sign of unbelief, and what does the Bible teach about trusting God when you feel afraid? In Mark 4:40, Jesus asks His disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” His question invites us to examine how fear can affect our trust in God, especially when we face uncertainty, illness, financial pressure, or worries about the future. Although fear is a natural human response, it doesn’t have to control our lives or define our relationship with God. Scripture reminds us that He is present in our struggles, strengthens us in our weakness, and invites us to bring our doubts honestly to Him.
Highlights
Explore Jesus’ question in Mark 4:40 and what it reveals about the relationship between fear and faith.

Recognize how worries about health, finances, relationships, and the future can challenge your trust in God.

Learn from the father in Mark 9:21-24 how to bring both faith and doubt honestly to Jesus.

Find encouragement in God’s promises to remain with you, strengthen you, and help you through difficult circumstances.

Discover how prayer can help you surrender anxiety and grow in confidence in God’s care.

Understand the difference between being controlled by fear and maintaining a reverent respect for God.

Reflect on ways to choose faith over fear and ask God to strengthen your trust when doubts arise.

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.
UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org
Do you want to listen ad-free?
When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!
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Full Transcript Below:
Is There a Connection Between Fear and Unbelief?
By Lynette Kittle
Bible Reading:
“He said to His disciples, ‘Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?’” - Mark 4:40
Fear… It’s pretty much everywhere we look today. There is fear of food recalls, fear of viruses, fear of job losses, fear of getting married, fear of getting divorced, fear of having children, fear of becoming homeless, fear of violent weather, fear of natural disasters, fear of traveling to foreign lands, fear of terrorists, fear of losing everything, and even fear of growing old.
Still, as 2 Timothy 1:7 assures us, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”
In Mark 4:40, Jesus connects the disciples’ fear in the boat with a lack of faith. So, is there a connection between fear and unbelief?
Is Fear an Indication of Unbelief in Our Lives?
As Christians, fear shouldn't have a place in our lives. In Mark 4:40, Jesus relates fear to a lack of faith, two things we don't usually think of as being connected. Yet, He connects the disciples’ fear while in the boat, even with Him right there beside them, to their lack of faith.
Most believers don't think of being afraid as having anything to do with our faith in God. Yet, if we are truly trusting God with our lives, it seems that fearfulness may be related to a lack of trust in Him.
Believing God is taking care of us and will continue to do so is based on our faith in Him. So, when we are fearful of what might come next, the Bible seems to connect that fear with unbelief and a lack of faith.
But as Deuteronomy 31:8 assures us, “The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
Is Fear Connected to Unbelief?
In Mark 9:21-24, a father with a demon-possessed son came to Jesus, asking if He could heal his son:
“Jesus asked the boy’s father, ‘How long has he been like this?’
‘From childhood,’ he answered. ‘It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.’
‘If you can?’ said Jesus. ‘Everything is possible for one who believes.’
Immediately, the boy’s father exclaimed, ‘I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!’”
So, do we need to examine ourselves when we struggle to believe that God will protect us, heal us, and provide for us? Even when we know He can, could we be harboring an underlying fear and unbelief that He won't?
Yet, during fearful times, the Lord assures and comforts us in Isaiah 41:10, saying, “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.”
Still, when God answers our prayers, are we often surprised that He actually answered them, even though we knew He could? If so, we may be harboring unbelief in our lives.
Only One Fear That’s Valid
Jesus does, however, point out the one thing people have a valid reason to fear: God's judgment. He explains in Matthew 10:28, “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”
Again, in Luke 12:5, Jesus says, “But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.”
The enemy of our souls is trying to keep us in fear of everything around us, so much so that we lose sight of the one fear that truly matters: the fear of God and the consequences of rejecting Jesus.
Intersecting Faith & Life:
If fear is trying to be your companion 24/7, ask God to help you resist it and believe that He is watching over you. If you're praying but not expecting God to answer, ask Him to help you overcome any unbelief in your life.
Further Reading:
Choosing Faith Over Fear
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In Mark 10:14, Jesus welcomes children and reminds His followers that the kingdom of God belongs to those who come to Him like little children. As adults, it’s easy to let worry, disappointment, and the pressures of life harden our hearts and weaken our sense of wonder. But God invites us to remember that we are His children and that we can approach Him with the same trust, openness, and dependence that a child has toward a loving parent.
Highlights
Discover what Jesus teaches about childlike faith in Mark 10:14 and why children are an example of trust and dependence on God.

Explore how adult responsibilities, anxiety, and difficult circumstances can cause you to lose your sense of wonder.

Learn how simple activities, outdoor adventures, and time spent enjoying creation can help restore everyday joy.

Understand how trusting God like a child can strengthen your faith when circumstances seem impossible.

Find practical ways to make life less self-focused by serving others, giving generously, and encouraging people in your community.

Discover how honest prayer and complete surrender can help you approach God as a loving Father.

Reflect on one meaningful way to restore your childlike wonder and grow in faith, joy, and trust in Jesus.

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.
UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org
Do you want to listen ad-free?
When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!
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Full Transcript Below:
Restore Your Childlike Wonder
By: Michelle Lazurek
Bible Reading:
“When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” - Mark 10:14
As I wrote in my dad's 80th-birthday card, I wanted to commemorate the milestone. I thought of 80 reasons why I love him. Immediately, I began recalling happy childhood memories. As I composed my list, which took me less than an hour, I realized something: I may not have had the fanciest possessions, gone on the fanciest vacations, or had the biggest home of my classmates, but I had a good childhood. My dad often took me to the park in the evenings, took me to McDonald's, or even just spent time talking with me. Those memories make up most of my childhood, and I was able to keep my childlike wonder.
In contrast to today's childhoods, where many kids’ innocence is stolen and their young, formative years are exposed to adult material, I was able to keep my innocence about many adult topics. My parents protected me and did the best they could to be the best role models. Additionally, even when my parents didn't have much money, we often had the latest fad or toy.
Today, I look fondly on those toys and fads. When times get tough, I often want to revert to being a kid, in a simpler time when I had no cares in the world, could play and be a child, and live life as fully as possible. We all want to remember our childhoods in this way.
Similarly, God wants us to live in this way today. He doesn't want us to look upon life with anxiety or anger. Instead, he wants us to reclaim that childlike wonder, reminding ourselves that our identity is solidified in him and that we are his children. Part of experiencing freedom in Christ is to trust God with our whole hearts.
Recall some of your favorite pastimes as a child. Did you enjoy coloring in a coloring book? Did you like riding a bike? Did you enjoy skipping rope or playing frisbee? Nothing is stopping you from enjoying those things today. Invest in an adult exercise rope, buy a frisbee, and have some fun. Spend time outside just playing catch with a loved one. Go to the beach and take a walk.
Enjoy nature to the fullest. When you enjoy all the things that God has created, it will help you reclaim your childlike wonder. Set aside time each day to take your mind off your cares and focus on simpler, more fun activities.
God wants us to live like kids. However, tough circumstances can harden our hearts and make us think about ourselves rather than others. When you live life for others, it is a life well lived. What can you do for others to make life less about you? Can you donate money to a worthy cause? Can you give to those who are in need? Make some cards and send them to the local Senior Center.
How do you need to reclaim your childlike wonder? How can you come to Jesus like a child? Perhaps that means trusting him explicitly, even in situations that look impossible for God to redeem. Maybe it means giving him all you have during your prayer time, pouring your heart out to him, and asking him to help you as a good father does. Whatever you choose, Jesus wants us to come to him like a little child. When we lower our inhibitions and trust him completely, God shines most in our lives.
Father, let us remember that we are your children. Just because we are adults does not mean we need to lose that childlike wonder. Let us come to you as we did when we were children. Let us come to you in full trust and surrender. Let us believe that you will turn every situation around for our good and that you have ultimate control of our lives. Amen.
Intersecting Faith & Life:
What is one way you can come to faith like a child?
Further Reading:
Matthew 19:14
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Does Halloween bring up feelings of fear, anxiety, or painful memories? Whether you feel uneasy about the holiday’s darker themes or have experienced frightening situations in the past, God offers comfort and strength when fear feels overwhelming. In 2 Timothy 1:7, Scripture reminds us that God gives us a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline—not timidity. As Christians, we can bring our fears to Jesus and trust the Holy Spirit to guide us toward greater peace. We can also recognize that everyone has different experiences with Halloween and respond to others with compassion rather than judgment.
Highlights
Explore what 2 Timothy 1:7 teaches about overcoming fear through God’s power, love, and self-discipline.

Understand how difficult childhood experiences or painful memories can shape your feelings about Halloween.

Discover why showing compassion for others’ experiences is an important part of responding with Christian love.

Learn how prayer, Bible study, and time with the Holy Spirit can strengthen your trust in God.

Find reassurance that you don’t have to celebrate Halloween if it causes fear, anxiety, or distress.

Consider peaceful, enjoyable alternatives to Halloween celebrations, from fall activities to spending time with friends.

Reflect on how to surrender your fears to God and rely on His strength throughout Halloween and every season of life.

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.
UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org
Do you want to listen ad-free?
When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!
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Full Transcript Below:
Surrendering Fear to God This Halloween
By Vivian Bricker
Bible Reading:
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7).
Halloween can instill fear in our hearts for many reasons. When I was a kid, I wasn't ever scared of Halloween because my mom made it light-hearted and fun; there was never any gore, blood, or horror. As I grew older, I started associating Halloween with autumn and the changing seasons rather than with anything scary or dark. Halloween was a time for hayrides, apple picking, and pumpkin-themed recipes, not scary events.
As I was talking to a friend about my plans for Halloween, she suddenly shuddered at the word “Halloween.” “I don't like Halloween; it’s too scary,” she said to me. I told her I knew a lot of people regard Halloween as a scary holiday, but you can make it whimsical, fun, and family-friendly. Despite my explanation, my friend continued to paint a picture of Halloween as evil.
She proceeded to share her Halloween experience with me, which included her parents turning their house into a haunted house for several months, displaying scary decorations outside that terrified her as a kid, and her older siblings dabbling in witchcraft on Halloween. Immediately, I understood her fear associated with Halloween. For me, Halloween was all fun and games, but for her, it was traumatizing.
We all need to leave room for those with different lived experiences than ours. I told my friend that it was okay; we didn't have to do anything special for Halloween. Instead, we could go to the movies or shop at the mall. My friend happily agreed, thankful to have moved past the difficult subject.
Intersecting Faith & Life:
If Halloween is a holiday that fills your heart with fear, look to Jesus. The Apostle Paul tells us, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7). From the moment we place faith in Jesus, the Holy Spirit lives inside us. This is known as the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Once the Holy Spirit indwells you, He will never leave. He guides, instructs, and convicts you. From the Bible, we also learn that He gives us power, love, and self-discipline. Perhaps you have already seen this to be true in your own life. Don't allow fear to dictate your life anymore; surrender every feeling to the Lord.
He can transform a heart of fear into a heart of trust. You can cultivate trust in Jesus by spending time with Him in Bible study and prayer. The more you get to know Him, the stronger your trust will become. Whether it is Halloween, Christmas, or New Year's, you will not give in to fear. It is a beautiful blessing to know the Lord and to have the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Talk with the Holy Spirit when you are afraid and ask Him to help you see His power, love, and self-discipline in your own life. You may be surprised as to how He will answer your prayer. Never underestimate the work of the Holy Spirit in your life; He can transform a fearful heart into a lionheart.
Surrender your fear to God today. However, know that it is okay if you don't want to celebrate Halloween. If Halloween brings up too many dark memories, you can bypass this holiday altogether. Do something else on Halloween, such as going to a pottery class, taking a day trip, or having a friend’s night where you all go see a movie. Replacing scary things at Halloween with fun events will radically change how you view this fall holiday.
Remind yourself that fear does not dictate your life. Your life belongs to Jesus, and He will strengthen you through every storm (Isaiah 41:10). Continue to rely on the Holy Spirit, cultivate trust in God, and embrace the fall season rather than the scary parts of Halloween.
Do you associate Halloween with fear? What are some ways you can take 2 Timothy 1:7 to heart? The Holy Spirit lives inside you right now. How might you get to know Him better this autumn?
Further Reading:
Deuteronomy 31:6
Joshua 1:9
Psalm 56:3
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.