When choosing between retaliation or forgiveness, before getting emotional, take time to think through the different ways to react. Apply the gospel to each situation. -Ashley Moore

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When choosing between retaliation or forgiveness, before getting emotional, take time to think through the different ways to react. Apply the gospel to each situation. -Ashley Moore
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

The Empty Promise of Retaliation

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: 

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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;
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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:
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>
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:
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

Wisdom in Scripture is more than intelligence or good decision-making—it’s a way of living rooted in reverence for God. Proverbs 9:10 makes it clear: wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord. That “fear” isn’t fear of punishment, but a deep respect and recognition that God is the source of all truth, direction, and understanding.

In a fast-paced world where decisions often feel rushed and emotionally driven, wisdom calls us to pause and look upward first. Rather than relying solely on instinct or opinion, God invites us to seek Him directly for guidance. When we intentionally ask for wisdom and make space for the Holy Spirit to lead, we position ourselves to live with greater clarity, peace, and alignment with His will.

Highlights
Wisdom in the Bible goes beyond knowledge—it’s rooted in reverence for God
Proverbs 9:10 defines wisdom as beginning with the fear (reverence) of the Lord
God is the ultimate source of discernment and understanding
Modern life often pushes us toward rushed, emotion-driven decisions
Seeking wisdom requires intentionally pausing and praying before acting
Scripture encourages believers to ask God for wisdom confidently
Daily dependence on God cultivates spiritual growth and clearer direction

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:

What Is Wisdom?
By Megan J. Conner

Bible Reading:
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” - Prov. 9:10 (NIV)

The Bible is full of references to the concept of wisdom. We are exhorted throughout the Word to seek wisdom, to employ it when making decisions, to represent it through our interactions with others, and to prayerfully request an increase of it in our lives. There are entire books in the Bible dedicated to the value of wisdom (Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, to name a few). With all of these references to wisdom in the Word, it is clear the Lord is trying to teach us something, but what? What does wisdom really mean for us in our modern, everyday lives?

When we look up the definition of wisdom in the dictionary or a biblical concordance, we can see descriptions such as having good sense or judgment, the ability to discern inner qualities, teachings stemming from ancient knowledge, shrewdness, or prudence. Based on these definitions, true wisdom is more than intellect or knowledge. It is much deeper. It extends far beyond our human limitations, which is why we must look to the supernatural as our source of impartation and increase.

I don’t know about you, but I struggle with the idea of possessing and successfully employing wisdom in everyday life. Our lives move at such a fast pace, and whether real or projected, it feels like our choices must be instantaneous rather than carefully considered. Even if I am able to carve out space for thoughtful deliberation, it seems like I rely much more readily on my ever-present, very forward emotions rather than sage discernment when making decisions. Perhaps you struggle with this as well. How then can we attempt to gain and prioritize wisdom?

Our key scripture today states, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Prov. 9:10, NIV). Any search we embark on to gain wisdom must begin with the fear of the Lord. Fear in this passage isn’t being afraid.  Rather, it is a sincere reverence and respect for our Creator God. It is an acknowledgment that He is the Alpha and the Omega, beginning and the end (Rev. 22:13); that all things were created by Him and without Him nothing was made (John 1:3). HE is the answer. HE is the source. If we desire to gain greater insight and understanding, we must depend heavily on the Lord. We must look to Him first. 

This all sounds great, but how can we practically apply this to our lives? By intentionally asking the Lord to grant and increase our wisdom. Proverbs 4:7 says, “Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment,” (NLT). If the smartest thing we can do to gain wisdom is to simply ask for it, then that is the best place to start. The Word promises that if we ask, we shall receive and if we seek, we shall find (Matt. 7:7). 

The next time you are uncertain of what decision to make or how to proceed forward in an unpredictable scenario, stop and pray. Ask the Lord to grant you His wisdom. Create space for those whispers of the Holy Spirit, and God will provide. He is faithful to do all He has promised. 

Intersecting Faith & Life:

How have you viewed the concept of wisdom in the Word of God? Have you seen it as treasured and valuable? Or do you struggle to believe you can possess such a quality?

As shared earlier, I have wrestled with possessing and employing wisdom.  However, I fully believe in the truth of God’s Word. If He tells us to seek wisdom and ask for it, then that is exactly what we should do. 

Understanding this, I started praying for wisdom every morning several years ago. My prayer is simple, nothing fancy. But when I recite this daily prayer, I sense a connection to the Word and God’s desire for me to grow in my faith. It is a small act of obedience that I believe has drawn me closer and more dependent upon the Lord. 

If you feel led, please join me in this petition today:

“Heavenly Father, would you grant my family and me wisdom today? Help us to be present in the natural world, but live and work with Your supernatural wisdom that is beyond this world. Amen.”

Further Reading:
John 1:1-5
Matthew 7:7-11

Wisdom in Scripture is more than intelligence or good decision-making&mdash;it&rsquo;s a way of living rooted in reverence for God. Proverbs 9:10 makes it clear: wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord. That &ldquo;fear&rdquo; isn&rsquo;t fear of punishment, but a deep respect and recognition that God is the source of all truth, direction, and understanding.
In a fast-paced world where decisions often feel rushed and emotionally driven, wisdom calls us to pause and look upward first. Rather than relying solely on instinct or opinion, God invites us to seek Him directly for guidance. When we intentionally ask for wisdom and make space for the Holy Spirit to lead, we position ourselves to live with greater clarity, peace, and alignment with His will.
<hr data-start="745" data-end="748">
Highlights
<ul data-start="766" data-end="1287">
<li data-section-id="16ly5l1" data-start="766" data-end="844">Wisdom in the Bible goes beyond knowledge&mdash;it&rsquo;s rooted in reverence for God</li>
<li data-section-id="1ob4pqd" data-start="845" data-end="928">Proverbs 9:10 defines wisdom as beginning with the fear (reverence) of the Lord</li>
<li data-section-id="h89xwz" data-start="929" data-end="992">God is the ultimate source of discernment and understanding</li>
<li data-section-id="ugxy7o" data-start="993" data-end="1064">Modern life often pushes us toward rushed, emotion-driven decisions</li>
<li data-section-id="mzijkg" data-start="1065" data-end="1140">Seeking wisdom requires intentionally pausing and praying before acting</li>
<li data-section-id="gg5vst" data-start="1141" data-end="1209">Scripture encourages believers to ask God for wisdom confidently</li>
<li data-section-id="1rcfl4h" data-start="1210" data-end="1287">Daily dependence on God cultivates spiritual growth and clearer direction</li>
</ul>
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Full Transcript Below:
What Is Wisdom? By Megan J. Conner
Bible Reading: &ldquo;The fear of the LORD&nbsp;is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.&rdquo; - Prov. 9:10 (NIV)
The Bible is full of references to the concept of wisdom. We are exhorted throughout the Word to seek wisdom, to employ it when making decisions, to represent it through our interactions with others, and to prayerfully request an increase of it in our lives. There are entire books in the Bible dedicated to the value of wisdom (Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, to name a few). With all of these references to wisdom in the Word, it is clear the Lord is trying to teach us something, but what? What does wisdom really mean for us in our modern, everyday lives?
When we look up the definition of wisdom in the dictionary or a biblical concordance, we can see descriptions such as having good sense or judgment, the ability to discern inner qualities, teachings stemming from ancient knowledge, shrewdness, or prudence. Based on these definitions, true wisdom is more than intellect or knowledge. It is much deeper. It extends far beyond our human limitations, which is why we must look to the supernatural as our source of impartation and increase.
I don&rsquo;t know about you, but I struggle with the idea of possessing and successfully employing wisdom in everyday life. Our lives move at such a fast pace, and whether real or projected, it feels like our choices must be instantaneous rather than carefully considered. Even if I am able to carve out space for thoughtful deliberation, it seems like I rely much more readily on my ever-present, very forward emotions rather than sage discernment when making decisions. Perhaps you struggle with this as well. How then can we attempt to gain and prioritize wisdom?
Our key scripture today states, &ldquo;The fear of the LORD&nbsp;is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding&rdquo; (Prov. 9:10, NIV). Any search we embark on to gain wisdom must begin with the fear of the Lord. Fear in this passage isn&rsquo;t being afraid.&nbsp; Rather, it is a sincere reverence and respect for our Creator God. It is an acknowledgment that He is the Alpha and the Omega, beginning and the end (Rev. 22:13); that all things were created by Him and without Him nothing was made (John 1:3). HE is the answer. HE is the source. If we desire to gain greater insight and understanding, we must depend heavily on the Lord. We must look to Him first.&nbsp;
This all sounds great, but how can we practically apply this to our lives? By intentionally asking the Lord to grant and increase our wisdom. Proverbs 4:7 says, &ldquo;Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment,&rdquo; (NLT). If the smartest thing we can do to gain wisdom is to simply ask for it, then that is the best place to start. The Word promises that if we ask, we shall receive and if we seek, we shall find (Matt. 7:7).&nbsp;
The next time you are uncertain of what decision to make or how to proceed forward in an unpredictable scenario, stop and pray. Ask the Lord to grant you His wisdom. Create space for those whispers of the Holy Spirit, and God will provide. He is faithful to do all He has promised.&nbsp;
Intersecting Faith &amp; Life:
How have you viewed the concept of wisdom in the Word of God? Have you seen it as treasured and valuable? Or do you struggle to believe you can possess such a quality?
As shared earlier, I have wrestled with possessing and employing wisdom.&nbsp; However, I fully believe in the truth of God&rsquo;s Word. If He tells us to seek wisdom and ask for it, then that is exactly what we should do.&nbsp;
Understanding this, I started praying for wisdom every morning several years ago. My prayer is simple, nothing fancy. But when I recite this daily prayer, I sense a connection to the Word and God&rsquo;s desire for me to grow in my faith. It is a small act of obedience that I believe has drawn me closer and more dependent upon the Lord.&nbsp;
If you feel led, please join me in this petition today:
&ldquo;Heavenly Father, would you grant my family and me wisdom today? Help us to be present in the natural world, but live and work with Your supernatural wisdom that is beyond this world. Amen.&rdquo;
Further Reading: John 1:1-5 Matthew 7:7-11

What Is Wisdom?

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/12c5a371-be5e-4a83-89cc-b43200e1fb3a/transcript

The Empty Promise of Retaliation

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