God uses the fires in our own lives to teach us to trust Him. - Annie Yorty

SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts:

Your Daily Prayer: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-prayer/
Your Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/

God uses the fires in our own lives to teach us to trust Him. - Annie Yorty
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

Freedom in the Fire

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>
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:
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

Spiritual sensitivity often comes down to one simple question: are we truly paying attention to what God is doing around us? Acts 3:2–4 shows Peter and John pausing long enough to see a person in need—and that moment of attention became an opportunity for God’s power to move. When we tune into the Holy Spirit, ordinary moments can turn into divine appointments.

In daily life, distractions, routines, and personal agendas can easily drown out God’s promptings. But Scripture consistently shows that God often works through interruptions, not just planned moments. Learning to slow down, notice people, and respond with obedience can open the door for encouragement, healing, and spiritual growth—both for others and for us.

Highlights
God often speaks through interruptions and unexpected moments
Spiritual distraction can cause us to miss meaningful opportunities
Peter and John noticed the man and responded with presence and compassion
God uses ordinary obedience to create extraordinary impact
Discernment requires slowing down and staying spiritually attentive
Faith is not just routine—it’s responsive to the Spirit’s leading
Small moments of obedience can have lasting spiritual influence

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:

Tune Into His Spirit
By: Michelle Lazurek

Bible Reading:
“Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money.  Peter looked straight at him, as did John.” - Acts 3:2-4

As a writer, I have the privilege of working from home. But sometimes the TV screen or other distractions can keep me from getting my work done. Sometimes I go to a coffee shop to get it done. Once I get there, I settle into a booth, put in my AirPods, and focus on my work. Most of the time, I'm super productive and get my tasks done for the day.

A few years ago, however, I bumped into a friend. It was a woman who had been attending our church for a little while. Although she'd been raised in the faith, she was hesitant about God. I saw her from across the room, unsure what I should do. Should I stop what I was doing, take out my AirPods, and have a conversation centered on God, or should I stay focused, knowing I could get my work done? 

Although headphones can be a great way to filter out the world's noise and focus on an immediate task, sometimes we crowd out not only God's voice but also the voices of those who need our help. In that situation, I kept my AirPods in, focused on my task, and ignored the opportunity God had placed before me. The woman soon left, and I felt bad. I should have initiated a conversation that could have helped her take a step forward in her spiritual growth. Instead, I focused on the menial tasks I had to get done for the day. 

Discerning God's voice is never easy. It can be downright difficult to discern God's voice from the world's voices. Even when it is difficult for us to discern what God has for us, it was no different for the disciples. In the passage above, Peter and John were on their way to the temple. They were out to do a good thing—go to church and worship God.

But God had other plans for them that day. Because they took time out of their busy day, God chose to show up in a big way in both their lives and the beggar's. The beggar received a great gift that day—healing from God. 

Although the text does not specify whether the person was a believer, it stands to reason that, given the miraculous power the Holy Spirit showed in that moment, the man was brought one step closer to knowing God more intimately. Because Peter and John took time to look him in the eye, give him dignity and worth, and meet his deepest needs, that man grew closer to God because of it.

Do we go through the motions of our faith? Do we put our heads down, tuck our Bibles under our arms, and walk into church each week, hearing great sermons and worshipping to great music, only to leave and focus on the menial tasks of the week? Do we make time to listen for how God might be speaking to us?

Take a moment and write down people whom you know God has placed in your path with whom you could have a spiritual conversation this week. It could be an email, a phone call, or a face-to-face conversation. Regardless of the way you choose to meet, choose to obey God and see what God wants to do with the people he has placed in your path. Lay aside your agenda and the menial tasks of the week and focus on the good opportunities he may lay before you.

Not only will God honor you for honoring him in that way, but you may find you not only witness but perform greater miracles than any of the disciples ever experienced during their ministry on earth.

Father, let us be in tune with your spirit. Let us see with your eyes who may be looking to know you better. Let us be the example you call us to be. Let us truly be disciples, sharing our faith so others may be equipped to do the same. Amen. 

Intersecting Faith & Life:

What is one step you can take to share your faith with someone who doesn’t know God? Can you pray and ask God to reveal a person to you today?

Further Reading:
John 10:27-28

Spiritual sensitivity often comes down to one simple question: are we truly paying attention to what God is doing around us? Acts 3:2&ndash;4 shows Peter and John pausing long enough to see a person in need&mdash;and that moment of attention became an opportunity for God&rsquo;s power to move. When we tune into the Holy Spirit, ordinary moments can turn into divine appointments.
In daily life, distractions, routines, and personal agendas can easily drown out God&rsquo;s promptings. But Scripture consistently shows that God often works through interruptions, not just planned moments. Learning to slow down, notice people, and respond with obedience can open the door for encouragement, healing, and spiritual growth&mdash;both for others and for us.
<hr data-start="742" data-end="745">
Highlights
<ul data-start="763" data-end="1251">
<li data-section-id="7hlo9z" data-start="763" data-end="828">God often speaks through interruptions and unexpected moments</li>
<li data-section-id="zrtnsw" data-start="829" data-end="900">Spiritual distraction can cause us to miss meaningful opportunities</li>
<li data-section-id="968xq8" data-start="901" data-end="978">Peter and John noticed the man and responded with presence and compassion</li>
<li data-section-id="bjjn7f" data-start="979" data-end="1041">God uses ordinary obedience to create extraordinary impact</li>
<li data-section-id="gqzyy5" data-start="1042" data-end="1113">Discernment requires slowing down and staying spiritually attentive</li>
<li data-section-id="103k7yl" data-start="1114" data-end="1183">Faith is not just routine&mdash;it&rsquo;s responsive to the Spirit&rsquo;s leading</li>
<li data-section-id="1f1y481" data-start="1184" data-end="1251">Small moments of obedience can have lasting spiritual influence</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:
Tune Into His Spirit By: Michelle Lazurek
Bible Reading: &ldquo;Now a man who was lame from birth&nbsp;was being carried to the temple gate&nbsp;called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg&nbsp;from those going into the temple courts.&nbsp;When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money.&nbsp;&nbsp;Peter looked straight at him, as did John.&rdquo; - Acts 3:2-4
As a writer, I have the privilege of working from home. But sometimes the TV screen or other distractions can keep me from getting my work done. Sometimes I go to a coffee shop to get it done. Once I get there, I settle into a booth, put in my AirPods, and focus on my work. Most of the time, I'm super productive and get my tasks done for the day.
A few years ago, however, I bumped into a friend. It was a woman who had been attending our church for a little while. Although she'd been raised in the faith, she was hesitant about God. I saw her from across the room, unsure what I should do. Should I stop what I was doing, take out my AirPods, and have a conversation centered on God, or should I stay focused, knowing I could get my work done?&nbsp;
Although headphones can be a great way to filter out the world's noise and focus on an immediate task, sometimes we crowd out not only God's voice but also the voices of those who need our help. In that situation, I kept my AirPods in, focused on my task, and ignored the opportunity God had placed before me. The woman soon left, and I felt bad. I should have initiated a conversation that could have helped her take a step forward in her spiritual growth. Instead, I focused on the menial tasks I had to get done for the day.&nbsp;
Discerning God's voice is never easy. It can be downright difficult to discern God's voice from the world's voices. Even when it is difficult for us to discern what God has for us, it was no different for the disciples. In the passage above, Peter and John were on their way to the temple. They were out to do a good thing&mdash;go to church and worship God.
But God had other plans for them that day. Because they took time out of their busy day, God chose to show up in a big way in both their lives and the beggar's. The beggar received a great gift that day&mdash;healing from God.&nbsp;
Although the text does not specify whether the person was a believer, it stands to reason that, given the miraculous power the Holy Spirit showed in that moment, the man was brought one step closer to knowing God more intimately. Because Peter and John took time to look him in the eye, give him dignity and worth, and meet his deepest needs, that man grew closer to God because of it.
Do we go through the motions of our faith? Do we put our heads down, tuck our Bibles under our arms, and walk into church each week, hearing great sermons and worshipping to great music, only to leave and focus on the menial tasks of the week? Do we make time to listen for how God might be speaking to us?
Take a moment and write down people whom you know God has placed in your path with whom you could have a spiritual conversation this week. It could be an email, a phone call, or a face-to-face conversation. Regardless of the way you choose to meet, choose to obey God and see what God wants to do with the people he has placed in your path. Lay aside your agenda and the menial tasks of the week and focus on the good opportunities he may lay before you.
Not only will God honor you for honoring him in that way, but you may find you not only witness but perform greater miracles than any of the disciples ever experienced during their ministry on earth.
Father, let us be in tune with your spirit. Let us see with your eyes who may be looking to know you better. Let us be the example you call us to be. Let us truly be disciples, sharing our faith so others may be equipped to do the same. Amen.&nbsp;
Intersecting Faith &amp; Life:
What is one step you can take to share your faith with someone who doesn&rsquo;t know God? Can you pray and ask God to reveal a person to you today?
Further Reading: John 10:27-28

Tune into His Spirit

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/802a65ea-8b44-4352-8694-b43200e1f5ee/transcript

Freedom in the Fire

In 1 playlist(s)

The Crosswalk Devotional

Social links

Follow podcast

Recent clips