Mercy is at the heart of the gospel, and as Christ's followers, we should rejoice any time we are given opportunities to extend mercy and kindness to those who have sinned against us. - Emily Rose Massey

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Mercy is at the heart of the gospel, and as Christ's followers, we should rejoice any time we are given opportunities to extend mercy and kindness to those who have sinned against us. - Emily Rose Massey
SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts: Your Daily Prayer: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/">https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/</a> Your Daily Bible Verse: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/">https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/</a>

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

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

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

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

Are you a Christian looking for a daily devotional podcast to encourage, inspire, and convict you in your walk with Christ? 7 days a week, The Crosswalk.com Daily Devotional Podcast offers wisdom and insight for applying Biblical truths to the ups and downs of everyday life. Let's study the Bible together and through the experiences of other believers, learn how to apply the Word of God to our lives.
Here’s just some of what we cover in The Crosswalk Daily Devotional Podcast:
☕️ Why the Tongue Can't Be Tamed (And What to Do about It) ☕️ The Quickest Way to an Attitude Adjustment ☕️ Your Birthday: The Most and Least Important Day of Your Life ☕️ Noticing God's Blessings in the Hardest Moments of Life ☕️ One of the Sneakiest Lies Satan Is Telling the Church ☕️ How to Push Through the Weariness of Prayer ☕️ 3 Steps to Take When Facing Temptation ☕️ What to Remember during a Stressful Election Year
If you love what you're listening to on the podcast, be sure to check out our companion devotional at <a href="https://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/crosswalk-devo/">https://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/crosswalk-devo/.</a>

7 days a week, The Crosswalk.com Devotional Podcast offers wisdom and insight for applying Biblical truths to the ups and downs of everyday life.

The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Christian Podcast

The Crosswalk Devotional

Being Merciful to Others

Trusting God during conflict and injustice isn’t passive—it’s deeply intentional. In Genesis 26:19–22, Isaac faced repeated opposition as others claimed the wells he and his servants dug. Instead of fighting back, he chose to move forward in faith, trusting that God would provide space for him to flourish. His story reveals a powerful truth: God’s plans will prevail, even when others come against us.

Highlights
Isaac faced repeated conflict but chose trust over striving
Not every battle requires a fight—some require faith and surrender
God’s provision cannot be blocked by others’ actions
Trusting God often means releasing control and resisting retaliation
Scripture shows both times to act and times to be still
God is faithful to restore, provide, and make room in His timing
Even in injustice, God is working for our good and His glory

Links & Resources: 

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Take Our Survey!

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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:

Trusting God's Plans to Prevail When Others Come Against Us
By Jennifer Slattery

Bible Reading:
Isaac’s servants dug in the valley and discovered a well of fresh water there. But the herders of Gerar quarreled with those of Isaac and said, “The water is ours!” So he named the well Esek,  because they disputed with him. Then they dug another well, but they quarreled over that one also; so he named it Sitnah.He moved on from there and dug another well, and no one quarreled over it. He named it Rehoboth, saying, “Now the Lord has given us room and we will flourish in the land.” (Genesis 26:19-22, NIV).

Have you ever had someone use your kindness and integrity against you? Or betray you in some way, and you wanted to fight back, but sensed God telling you to trust Him to rectify the situation? 

For years, I watched my husband endure the painful effects of slander and parental alienation. He was married before me to a woman who was verbally and psychologically abusive. When they divorced, his ex told his children that he’d abandoned them and didn’t love them. Then, once he married me and he and I gave birth to our daughter, his ex told his kids that we were his “replacement family.” 

While he diligently showed up for them and financially provided for them, that negative narrative became their reality. To say this devastated him would be a huge understatement. And the cruel injustice of it all angered me. I vacillated between feeling frustrated with God for not intervening on my timeline, and trusting that one day He would make things right. 

That was decades ago, and while my husband, sadly, remains estranged with some of his children, he’s been able to rebuild (and is rebuilding) his relationship with one of his daughters. He’s also been able to connect with three grandchildren, something we’d previously feared might never occur. 

I reflected upon my husband’s experience and God’s faithfulness this morning as I read Genesis 26. This occurred after Abraham’s death and well into Isaac’s adult years. Like his father before him, he endured what Scripture terms “a severe famine” and moved to an area of Gerar, presumably in search of food and access to water. The Lord, likely alert to the anxiety this would’ve caused, told Isaac not to go to Egypt (with its constant access to the Nile). He also promised to provide for and bless him.

This reminds us that God knows precisely how to comfort and strengthen our fearful souls! In the middle of Isaac’s life-or-death crisis, He spoke powerful assurances to his soul. These divine commitments probably allowed him to remain calm and faith-filled later, when the people of the land continually sabotaged or laid claim to the wells his servants dug or reopened. This occurred three times, during which Isaac could’ve fought back. He might even have been successful. Genesis 26 tells us that He became quite rich and powerful (vs. 13, 16). 

Instead, he simply moved on, and once he reached the place he later called Rehoboth, he dug another well, and “This time there was no dispute over it” (Gen. 26:22b). Recognizing God’s provision, he proclaimed, “At last the LORD has created enough space for us to proper in the land” (Gen. 26:22, NLT). 

Intersecting Life & Faith:


Please don’t misunderstand me. I’m not saying Christ-followers should never advocate for themselves. Throughout Scripture, we see numerous instances when God directs His people to stand firm against evil, advocate for and defend others, or take hold of a blessing He provided. Ancient Israel taking possession of the Promised Land is a perfect example. But there are also times when he invites us to “Be still and know that He is God” (Psalm 46:10). This seems to be how he directed Joseph, introduced in Genesis 37. It also appears to be how He led Isaac in the chapter surrounding today’s passage. 

Did you catch how God spoke truth and assurance to Isaac before the well events? This reads like He was saying, in essence, “You don’t have to fight and strive for your survival, because I, Almighty God, will bless you.”

He says the same to us. He is bigger than any injustice we’ll face or betrayal we’ll endure. He is faithful to protect, defend, and provide for His children. Sometimes, He invites us to play an active role in that protection or provision. Other times, He asks us to trust while He works the situation for our good and His glory, just as He promised in Romans 8:28. Regardless of how He leads, we can trust in His attentive care. He is the God of abundance, who owns all, sees all, and remains sovereign over all. But more than that, He is a God of tender, merciful love who sees our pain, heals our hurts, quiets our fears, and tends to all of our needs, physical, spiritual, and emotional. 

If you are struggling with a present or past betrayal or injustice, perhaps reflect on and rehearse this passage:

Do not fret because of those who are evil
or be envious of those who do wrong;
for like the grass they will soon wither,
like green plants they will soon die away.

Trust in the Lord and do good;
dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart (Ps. 37:1-4). 

Further Reading:

Psalm 37

Genesis 26:12-25

Genesis 41:37-43; 50:15-20

Trusting God during conflict and injustice isn&rsquo;t passive&mdash;it&rsquo;s deeply intentional. In Genesis 26:19&ndash;22, Isaac faced repeated opposition as others claimed the wells he and his servants dug. Instead of fighting back, he chose to move forward in faith, trusting that God would provide space for him to flourish. His story reveals a powerful truth: God&rsquo;s plans will prevail, even when others come against us.
<hr data-start="812" data-end="815">
Highlights
<ul data-start="833" data-end="1291">
<li data-section-id="85pf05" data-start="833" data-end="896">Isaac faced repeated conflict but chose trust over striving</li>
<li data-section-id="l0643v" data-start="897" data-end="967">Not every battle requires a fight&mdash;some require faith and surrender</li>
<li data-section-id="gjdyix" data-start="968" data-end="1024">God&rsquo;s provision cannot be blocked by others&rsquo; actions</li>
<li data-section-id="vx5mbm" data-start="1025" data-end="1097">Trusting God often means releasing control and resisting retaliation</li>
<li data-section-id="1wesvqo" data-start="1098" data-end="1157">Scripture shows both times to act and times to be still</li>
<li data-section-id="1bkmt0g" data-start="1158" data-end="1226">God is faithful to restore, provide, and make room in His timing</li>
<li data-section-id="1kca7i2" data-start="1227" data-end="1291">Even in injustice, God is working for our good and His glory</li>
</ul>
Links &amp; Resources:&nbsp;
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<a href="https://forms.gle/gXp5pnA83t6du5An7">Take Our Survey!</a>
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<a href="https://www.crosswalk.com/subscribe/?utm_source=subscribe_page&amp;utm_medium=YDBV&amp;utm_campaign=YDBV_PLUS">Sign Up Today!</a>
<hr>
Full Transcript Below:
Trusting God's Plans to Prevail When Others Come Against Us By Jennifer Slattery
Bible Reading: Isaac&rsquo;s servants dug in the valley and discovered a well of fresh water there.&nbsp;But the herders of Gerar quarreled&nbsp;with those of Isaac and said, &ldquo;The water is ours!&rdquo;&nbsp;So he named the well Esek, &nbsp;because they disputed with him. Then they dug another well, but they quarreled&nbsp;over that one also; so he named it Sitnah. He moved on from there and dug another well, and no one quarreled over it. He named it Rehoboth, saying, &ldquo;Now the Lord has given us room and we will flourish in the land.&rdquo; (Genesis 26:19-22, NIV).
Have you ever had someone use your kindness and integrity against you? Or betray you in some way, and you wanted to fight back, but sensed God telling you to trust Him to rectify the situation?&nbsp;
For years, I watched my husband endure the painful effects of slander and parental alienation. He was married before me to a woman who was verbally and psychologically abusive. When they divorced, his ex told his children that he&rsquo;d abandoned them and didn&rsquo;t love them. Then, once he married me and he and I gave birth to our daughter, his ex told his kids that we were his &ldquo;replacement family.&rdquo;&nbsp;
While he diligently showed up for them and financially provided for them, that negative narrative became their reality. To say this devastated him would be a huge understatement. And the cruel injustice of it all angered me. I vacillated between feeling frustrated with God for not intervening on my timeline, and trusting that one day He would make things right.&nbsp;
That was decades ago, and while my husband, sadly, remains estranged with some of his children, he&rsquo;s been able to rebuild (and is rebuilding) his relationship with one of his daughters. He&rsquo;s also been able to connect with three grandchildren, something we&rsquo;d previously feared might never occur.&nbsp;
I reflected upon my husband&rsquo;s experience and God&rsquo;s faithfulness this morning as I read Genesis 26. This occurred after Abraham&rsquo;s death and well into Isaac&rsquo;s adult years. Like his father before him, he endured what Scripture terms &ldquo;a severe famine&rdquo; and moved to an area of Gerar, presumably in search of food and access to water. The Lord, likely alert to the anxiety this would&rsquo;ve caused, told Isaac not to go to Egypt (with its constant access to the Nile). He also promised to provide for and bless him.
This reminds us that God knows precisely how to comfort and strengthen our fearful souls! In the middle of Isaac&rsquo;s life-or-death crisis, He spoke powerful assurances to his soul. These divine commitments probably allowed him to remain calm and faith-filled later, when the people of the land continually sabotaged or laid claim to the wells his servants dug or reopened. This occurred three times, during which Isaac could&rsquo;ve fought back. He might even have been successful. Genesis 26 tells us that He became quite rich and powerful (vs. 13, 16).&nbsp;
Instead, he simply moved on, and once he reached the place he later called Rehoboth, he dug another well, and &ldquo;This time there was no dispute over it&rdquo; (Gen. 26:22b). Recognizing God&rsquo;s provision, he proclaimed, &ldquo;At last the LORD has created enough space for us to proper in the land&rdquo; (Gen. 26:22, NLT).&nbsp;
Intersecting Life &amp; Faith:
 Please don&rsquo;t misunderstand me. I&rsquo;m not saying Christ-followers should never advocate for themselves. Throughout Scripture, we see numerous instances when God directs His people to stand firm against evil, advocate for and defend others, or take hold of a blessing He provided. Ancient Israel taking possession of the Promised Land is a perfect example. But there are also times when he invites us to &ldquo;Be still and know that He is God&rdquo; (Psalm 46:10). This seems to be how he directed Joseph, introduced in Genesis 37. It also appears to be how He led Isaac in the chapter surrounding today&rsquo;s passage.&nbsp;
Did you catch how God spoke truth and assurance to Isaac before the well events? This reads like He was saying, in essence, &ldquo;You don&rsquo;t have to fight and strive for your survival, because I, Almighty God, will bless you.&rdquo;
He says the same to us. He is bigger than any injustice we&rsquo;ll face or betrayal we&rsquo;ll endure. He is faithful to protect, defend, and provide for His children. Sometimes, He invites us to play an active role in that protection or provision. Other times, He asks us to trust while He works the situation for our good and His glory, just as He promised in Romans 8:28. Regardless of how He leads, we can trust in His attentive care. He is the God of abundance, who owns all, sees all, and remains sovereign over all. But more than that, He is a God of tender, merciful love who sees our pain, heals our hurts, quiets our fears, and tends to all of our needs, physical, spiritual, and emotional.&nbsp;
If you are struggling with a present or past betrayal or injustice, perhaps reflect on and rehearse this passage:
Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious&nbsp;of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away.
Trust in the&nbsp;Lord&nbsp;and do good; dwell in the land&nbsp;and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart (Ps. 37:1-4).&nbsp;
Further Reading:
Psalm 37
Genesis 26:12-25
Genesis 41:37-43; 50:15-20

Trusting God's Plans to Prevail When Others Come Against Us

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/16229292-d03c-49af-a7f4-b43900e36409/transcript

Acts 8:18–23 gives a sobering look at Simon the Sorcerer—a man drawn to spiritual power but not transformed in heart. His story is a reminder that not everything that looks spiritual is rooted in God. Even today, appearances, influence, and charisma can sometimes mask motives that aren’t aligned with truth.

Discernment is essential in a world full of voices claiming authority. Scripture calls believers to test what they hear against God’s Word and to pay attention to fruit, not just presentation. True spiritual leadership reflects humility, repentance, and alignment with Christ—not control, profit, or self-exaltation.

Highlights
Not everything that appears spiritual is genuinely from God
Simon’s story reveals the danger of pursuing power over transformation
Discernment requires evaluating teaching against Scripture
Jesus teaches that spiritual truth is revealed through “fruit,” not appearance
False teaching can be persuasive, charismatic, and still misleading
God calls believers to wisdom, testing, and spiritual awareness
True faith is marked by humility, repentance, and Christlike character

Links & Resources: 

Have an idea for our newsletter? We want to hear from you! Take our survey below:

Take Our Survey!

Do you want to listen ad-free?

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

Sign Up Today!

Full Transcript Below:

Encountering Modern Day Simon the Sorcerers
By Vivian Bricker 

Bible Reading:
“When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money and said, ‘Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.’ Peter answered: ‘May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord in the hope that he may forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin.’” - Acts 8:18-23

There are many false teachers who distract us from the true Gospel. These individuals tend to be charismatic, confident, and deceptive in their dealings with others. How many megachurch pastors have we seen step down from positions of authority because of scandal? As followers of the Lord, we must be discerning. It takes time, focus, and a close walk with Jesus to recognize wolves dressed as sheep.

God will help us discern true followers of the Lord from those who are not. Unfortunately, there are many people who claim to be Christians, only to disown Him through their actions. While we cannot judge someone’s salvation, we can weigh what they say and do against Scripture.

Intersecting Faith & Life: 

Simon practiced sorcery (Acts 8:9). His acts amazed the people, and he often boasted of his greatness. The people of Samaria believed he was someone special, even calling him “the Great Power of God” (Acts 8:10). However, once Philip shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ, they rejected Simon the Sorcerer and followed Jesus instead (Acts 8:12-13).

In Acts 8:18-23, we see the true condition of Simon’s heart. He wanted the same ability to give the Holy Spirit to anyone on whom he laid his hands. Peter was angered by Simon’s desire and rebuked him, urging him to repent and turn to the Lord. Simon’s actions revealed that he was “full of bitterness and captive to sin.”

There are many leaders within cities, organizations, and companies who are similar to Simon the Sorcerer. Although we are told Simon believed Philip’s message of the Good News of Jesus Christ, he was still influenced by the sin within him (Acts 8:13). His main focus was power. Peter could see through Simon’s duplicity, and we need to ensure we are doing the same.

As followers of Christ, we must be aware of those who claim to be believers but peddle the Word of God for profit. We must also be cautious of anyone who professes faith but denies Jesus through their actions. Jesus tells us, “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit” (Matthew 7:15-17). 

Anyone who denies the Lord in their actions or tries to use the Gospel for monetary gain should be rebuked. If they are a true follower of the Lord, they will turn to the Lord in repentance and ask for forgiveness. However, if they continue in their wicked ways, it is right to assume they never knew the Lord. 

Have you come across anyone who is like Simon the Sorcerer? What are some ways you can become more discerning of leaders and individuals? How can you gauge their heart? 

Pray with me: 

Dear Jesus, please give me discernment to know who Your true followers are and who are not. Uncover the Simons in my life. Guide my heart away from false teachers and toward You. Bless me with the confidence to rebuke these individuals, as Peter did, and give me the boldness to stand up for You. In Your Name, I pray, Amen.

Further Reading:

2 Peter 2:1-3

1 John 4:1

2 Corinthians 11:13-15

Acts 8:18&ndash;23 gives a sobering look at Simon the Sorcerer&mdash;a man drawn to spiritual power but not transformed in heart. His story is a reminder that not everything that looks spiritual is rooted in God. Even today, appearances, influence, and charisma can sometimes mask motives that aren&rsquo;t aligned with truth.
Discernment is essential in a world full of voices claiming authority. Scripture calls believers to test what they hear against God&rsquo;s Word and to pay attention to fruit, not just presentation. True spiritual leadership reflects humility, repentance, and alignment with Christ&mdash;not control, profit, or self-exaltation.
<hr data-start="642" data-end="645">
Highlights
<ul data-start="663" data-end="1162">
<li data-section-id="12e3mhu" data-start="663" data-end="726">Not everything that appears spiritual is genuinely from God</li>
<li data-section-id="xpcgaf" data-start="727" data-end="801">Simon&rsquo;s story reveals the danger of pursuing power over transformation</li>
<li data-section-id="horj2n" data-start="802" data-end="864">Discernment requires evaluating teaching against Scripture</li>
<li data-section-id="13ib59z" data-start="865" data-end="947">Jesus teaches that spiritual truth is revealed through &ldquo;fruit,&rdquo; not appearance</li>
<li data-section-id="dc6b5u" data-start="948" data-end="1019">False teaching can be persuasive, charismatic, and still misleading</li>
<li data-section-id="14lmgaj" data-start="1020" data-end="1087">God calls believers to wisdom, testing, and spiritual awareness</li>
<li data-section-id="pjrwk7" data-start="1088" data-end="1162">True faith is marked by humility, repentance, and Christlike character</li>
</ul>
Links &amp; Resources:&nbsp;
Have an idea for our newsletter? We want to hear from you! Take our survey below:
<a href="https://forms.gle/gXp5pnA83t6du5An7">Take Our Survey!</a>
Do you want to listen ad-free?
When you join&nbsp;Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors&mdash;resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.crosswalk.com/subscribe/?utm_source=subscribe_page&amp;utm_medium=YDBV&amp;utm_campaign=YDBV_PLUS">Sign Up Today!</a>
<hr>
Full Transcript Below:
Encountering Modern Day Simon the Sorcerers By Vivian Bricker&nbsp;
Bible Reading: &ldquo;When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles&rsquo; hands, he offered them money and said, &lsquo;Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.&rsquo; Peter answered: &lsquo;May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord in the hope that he may forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin.&rsquo;&rdquo; - Acts 8:18-23
There are many false teachers who distract us from the true Gospel. These individuals tend to be charismatic, confident, and deceptive in their dealings with others. How many megachurch pastors have we seen step down from positions of authority because of scandal? As followers of the Lord, we must be discerning. It takes time, focus, and a close walk with Jesus to recognize wolves dressed as sheep.
God will help us discern true followers of the Lord from those who are not. Unfortunately, there are many people who claim to be Christians, only to disown Him through their actions. While we cannot judge someone&rsquo;s salvation, we can weigh what they say and do against Scripture.
Intersecting Faith &amp; Life:&nbsp;
Simon practiced sorcery (Acts 8:9). His acts amazed the people, and he often boasted of his greatness. The people of Samaria believed he was someone special, even calling him &ldquo;the Great Power of God&rdquo; (Acts 8:10). However, once Philip shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ, they rejected Simon the Sorcerer and followed Jesus instead (Acts 8:12-13).
In Acts 8:18-23, we see the true condition of Simon&rsquo;s heart. He wanted the same ability to give the Holy Spirit to anyone on whom he laid his hands. Peter was angered by Simon&rsquo;s desire and rebuked him, urging him to repent and turn to the Lord. Simon&rsquo;s actions revealed that he was &ldquo;full of bitterness and captive to sin.&rdquo;
There are many leaders within cities, organizations, and companies who are similar to Simon the Sorcerer. Although we are told Simon believed Philip&rsquo;s message of the Good News of Jesus Christ, he was still influenced by the sin within him (Acts 8:13). His main focus was power. Peter could see through Simon&rsquo;s duplicity, and we need to ensure we are doing the same.
As followers of Christ, we must be aware of those who claim to be believers but peddle the Word of God for profit. We must also be cautious of anyone who professes faith but denies Jesus through their actions. Jesus tells us, &ldquo;Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep&rsquo;s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit&rdquo; (Matthew 7:15-17).&nbsp;
Anyone who denies the Lord in their actions or tries to use the Gospel for monetary gain should be rebuked. If they are a true follower of the Lord, they will turn to the Lord in repentance and ask for forgiveness. However, if they continue in their wicked ways, it is right to assume they never knew the Lord.&nbsp;
Have you come across anyone who is like Simon the Sorcerer? What are some ways you can become more discerning of leaders and individuals? How can you gauge their heart?&nbsp;
Pray with me:&nbsp;
Dear Jesus, please give me discernment to know who Your true followers are and who are not. Uncover the Simons in my life. Guide my heart away from false teachers and toward You. Bless me with the confidence to rebuke these individuals, as Peter did, and give me the boldness to stand up for You. In Your Name, I pray, Amen.
Further Reading:
2 Peter 2:1-3
1 John 4:1
2 Corinthians 11:13-15

Encountering Modern Day Simon the Sorcerers

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/f7e567b3-6eec-41b0-a7a0-b43200e22f5e/transcript

God’s Word is described in Psalm 119:130 as light that brings understanding—and that imagery still holds up today. Just like a flashlight cutting through darkness, Scripture has a way of revealing clarity in places where confusion, uncertainty, or discouragement once lived. And the beautiful part is that this light isn’t reserved for experts or scholars—it’s available to anyone willing to open the page.

Spiritual understanding doesn’t usually happen all at once. It unfolds over time as we return to God’s Word consistently and allow the Holy Spirit to illuminate what we need in each season. As we read, reflect, and stay teachable, Scripture moves from information to transformation—guiding not just what we know, but how we live.

Highlights
God’s Word brings light into confusion and spiritual darkness
Scripture is meant to be experienced gradually, not mastered instantly
The Holy Spirit helps illuminate understanding as we read and reflect
Bible reading is a daily spiritual discipline that builds spiritual growth
God’s Word transforms us, not just informs us
Lifelong learning keeps faith active, humble, and growing
God can use both Scripture and other reading to deepen spiritual insight

Do you want to listen ad-free?

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

Sign Up Today!

Full Transcript Below:

God’s Words Will Enlighten You
By: Whitney Hopler

Bible Reading:
“The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” – Psalm 119:130, NIV 

When I was a child, I loved reading so much that bedtime felt like an interruption. Once the lights were off and the door was closed, I’d pull out a flashlight and keep reading under the covers. I knew I was supposed to be sleeping, but the story always felt more important. I wanted to know what happened next. I wanted to learn. That little beam of light made the pages come alive, even in the dark.

Those memories come back to me when I read Psalm 119:130, which describes how God’s words shine a light that gives us understanding. When we read God’s words in the Bible, God’s light shines into the darkness of our lives in this fallen world, and that helps us see what we couldn’t see before. God’s words do this for us even if we’re not experts or scholars. The verse says it gives understanding “to the simple.” That’s good news for all of us. 

Psalm 119 is all about loving God’s words to us, which Hebrews 4:12 points out are “alive and active”. Over and over, Psalm 119 describes longing for scripture, meditating on it, and finding life in it. This particular verse reminds us that God’s words in the Bible work gradually yet powerfully in our lives. God’s words unfold. They open up over time. God’s light comes into the darkness of our lives in this fallen world as we read them, reflect on them, and apply them. 

That’s important, because many people feel discouraged when they open the Bible and don’t immediately understand everything. They may worry that they’re not smart enough to understand God’s messages, or that they’re approaching the Bible in the wrong ways. But the Bible was never meant to be mastered in just one reading. It was meant to be read gradually and returned to regularly. Bible reading is an important spiritual discipline that God intends for us to practice every day, just like prayer and meditation. As we allow God’s words in the Bible to sink into our souls day by day, they will unfold in our lives so that we become more enlightened. 

When we come to the Bible with a desire for God to enlighten us, God’s Holy Spirit will help us understand what we need, when we need it. But learning doesn’t stop with the Bible alone. God also uses other good books and articles to help us grow spiritually. Reading widely can deepen our understanding of God and the world he has created. The key is reading prayerfully, asking the Holy Spirit to guide us. The Spirit will show us what’s true and what’s helpful for growing closer to God. God loves to teach us through what we read – both through the Bible’s words and through other words that can point us toward him. 

Reading is an important part of lifelong learning, and being lifelong learners keeps our faith growing by reminding us that God is always bigger than our current understanding. If we stop learning, our faith can become weak. But when we stay curious – focused on God’s words in the Bible and open to growth as the Holy Spirit leads us – we stay teachable. 

Psalm 119:130 also reminds us that light comes from God’s words, not just information. God wants us to do much more than just collect facts. God wants us to change for the better. So, the words God uses to enlighten us go beyond information to also bring inspiration into our lives. God’s words inspire us by motivating us to move closer to him as we keep learning more. 

So, if you’re facing the darkness of confusion or discouragement, let God’s words shine a light into your life. Open the Bible and read something. Then ask the Holy Spirit to use that to enlighten you and bring you the wisdom and encouragement you need. When you experience the blessing of God meeting you there, you’ll get inspired to keep reading. Like a child with a flashlight under the covers, you’ll be excited to read and learn from God’s words as much as you can!

Intersecting Faith & Life:

As you consider how God’s words will enlighten you, reflect on these questions:
What role does reading – the Bible, and other books and articles – play in your daily life right now? 
When have you recently experienced a Bible verse or passage enlightening you with wisdom or encouragement? 
What keeps you from reading the Bible more regularly, and how can you try to start reading the Bible more? 
How can you approach other books or articles as learning opportunities, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide you? 
What would it look like for you to become a lifelong learner who’s focused on God’s truth while continuing to seek out fresh information and inspiration? 

Further Reading:
2 Timothy 3:16-17
Joshua 1:8
Proverbs 2:6
Colossians 3:16
James 1:5

God&rsquo;s Word is described in Psalm 119:130 as light that brings understanding&mdash;and that imagery still holds up today. Just like a flashlight cutting through darkness, Scripture has a way of revealing clarity in places where confusion, uncertainty, or discouragement once lived. And the beautiful part is that this light isn&rsquo;t reserved for experts or scholars&mdash;it&rsquo;s available to anyone willing to open the page.
Spiritual understanding doesn&rsquo;t usually happen all at once. It unfolds over time as we return to God&rsquo;s Word consistently and allow the Holy Spirit to illuminate what we need in each season. As we read, reflect, and stay teachable, Scripture moves from information to transformation&mdash;guiding not just what we know, but how we live.
<hr data-start="753" data-end="756">
Highlights
<ul data-start="774" data-end="1256">
<li data-section-id="1dfim5m" data-start="774" data-end="839">God&rsquo;s Word brings light into confusion and spiritual darkness</li>
<li data-section-id="1kkq1lp" data-start="840" data-end="914">Scripture is meant to be experienced gradually, not mastered instantly</li>
<li data-section-id="mvio1c" data-start="915" data-end="988">The Holy Spirit helps illuminate understanding as we read and reflect</li>
<li data-section-id="d4d9hr" data-start="989" data-end="1067">Bible reading is a daily spiritual discipline that builds spiritual growth</li>
<li data-section-id="1y8wmfw" data-start="1068" data-end="1117">God&rsquo;s Word transforms us, not just informs us</li>
<li data-section-id="m07qfv" data-start="1118" data-end="1179">Lifelong learning keeps faith active, humble, and growing</li>
<li data-section-id="1slqivp" data-start="1180" data-end="1256">God can use both Scripture and other reading to deepen spiritual insight</li>
</ul>
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Full Transcript Below:
God&rsquo;s Words Will Enlighten You By: Whitney Hopler
Bible Reading: &ldquo;The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.&rdquo; &ndash; Psalm 119:130, NIV&nbsp;
When I was a child, I loved reading so much that bedtime felt like an interruption. Once the lights were off and the door was closed, I&rsquo;d pull out a flashlight and keep reading under the covers. I knew I was supposed to be sleeping, but the story always felt more important. I wanted to know what happened next. I wanted to learn. That little beam of light made the pages come alive, even in the dark.
Those memories come back to me when I read Psalm 119:130, which describes how God&rsquo;s words shine a light that gives us understanding. When we read God&rsquo;s words in the Bible, God&rsquo;s light shines into the darkness of our lives in this fallen world, and that helps us see what we couldn&rsquo;t see before. God&rsquo;s words do this for us even if we&rsquo;re not experts or scholars. The verse says it gives understanding &ldquo;to the simple.&rdquo; That&rsquo;s good news for all of us.&nbsp;
Psalm 119 is all about loving God&rsquo;s words to us, which Hebrews 4:12 points out are &ldquo;alive and active&rdquo;. Over and over, Psalm 119 describes longing for scripture, meditating on it, and finding life in it. This particular verse reminds us that God&rsquo;s words in the Bible work gradually yet powerfully in our lives. God&rsquo;s words unfold. They open up over time.<a href="https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/reminders-about-light-when-you-feel-surrounded-by-darkness.html"> God&rsquo;s light comes into the darkness</a> of our lives in this fallen world as we read them, reflect on them, and apply them.&nbsp;
That&rsquo;s important, because many people feel discouraged when they open the Bible and don&rsquo;t immediately understand everything. They may worry that they&rsquo;re not smart enough to understand God&rsquo;s messages, or that they&rsquo;re approaching the Bible in the wrong ways. But the Bible was never meant to be mastered in just one reading. It was meant to be read gradually and returned to regularly. Bible reading is an important spiritual discipline that God intends for us to practice every day, just like<a href="https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/prayer/how-to-start-prayer-and-meditation-habits-youll-enjoy.html"> prayer and meditation</a>. As we allow God&rsquo;s words in the Bible to sink into our souls day by day, they will unfold in our lives so that we become more enlightened.&nbsp;
When we come to the Bible with a desire for God to enlighten us, God&rsquo;s Holy Spirit will help us understand what we need, when we need it. But learning doesn&rsquo;t stop with the Bible alone. God also uses other good books and articles to help us grow spiritually. Reading widely can deepen our understanding of God and the world he has created. The key is reading prayerfully,<a href="https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/how-to-receive-the-holy-spirit.html"> asking the Holy Spirit to guide us</a>. The Spirit will show us what&rsquo;s true and what&rsquo;s helpful for growing closer to God. God loves to teach us through what we read &ndash; both through the Bible&rsquo;s words and through other words that can point us toward him.&nbsp;
Reading is an important part of<a href="https://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/ibelieve-truth-a-devotional-for-women/the-art-of-lifelong-learning.html"> lifelong learning</a>, and being lifelong learners keeps our faith growing by reminding us that God is always bigger than our current understanding. If we stop learning, our faith can become weak. But when we stay curious &ndash; focused on God&rsquo;s words in the Bible and open to growth as the Holy Spirit leads us &ndash; we stay teachable.&nbsp;
Psalm 119:130 also reminds us that light comes from God&rsquo;s words, not just information. God wants us to do much more than just collect facts. God wants us to change for the better. So, the words God uses to enlighten us go beyond information to also bring inspiration into our lives. God&rsquo;s words inspire us by motivating us to move closer to him as we keep learning more.&nbsp;
So, if you&rsquo;re facing the darkness of confusion or discouragement, let God&rsquo;s words shine a light into your life. Open the Bible and read something. Then ask the Holy Spirit to use that to enlighten you and bring you the wisdom and encouragement you need. When you experience the blessing of God meeting you there, you&rsquo;ll get inspired to keep reading. Like a child with a flashlight under the covers, you&rsquo;ll be excited to read and learn from God&rsquo;s words as much as you can!
Intersecting Faith &amp; Life:
As you consider how God&rsquo;s words will enlighten you, reflect on these questions:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">What role does reading &ndash; the Bible, and other books and articles &ndash; play in your daily life right now?&nbsp;</li>
<li aria-level="1">When have you recently experienced a Bible verse or passage enlightening you with wisdom or encouragement?&nbsp;</li>
<li aria-level="1">What keeps you from reading the Bible more regularly, and how can you try to start reading the Bible more?&nbsp;</li>
<li aria-level="1">How can you approach other books or articles as learning opportunities, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide you?&nbsp;</li>
<li aria-level="1">What would it look like for you to become a lifelong learner who&rsquo;s focused on God&rsquo;s truth while continuing to seek out fresh information and inspiration?&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
Further Reading: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Joshua 1:8 Proverbs 2:6 Colossians 3:16 James 1:5

God’s Words Will Enlighten You

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/4fe3f273-57dd-450e-920f-b43200e225cd/transcript

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