Our hearts are the wellspring of our thoughts, words, and actions, and what fills our hearts will ultimately shape our lives. We’ll explore the importance of cultivating a heart aligned with God’s love and truth, and how this overflow can impact those around us.

Join the Conversation:

We want to hear from you! What do you find fills your heart the most? Share your insights and experiences with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. How do you ensure your heart overflows with love and gratitude? Let’s encourage one another to nurture our hearts in faith!

🎙 ❤️ SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW - YOUR NIGHTLY PRAYER:https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/

Our hearts are the wellspring of our thoughts, words, and actions, and what fills our hearts will ultimately shape our lives. We&rsquo;ll explore the importance of cultivating a heart aligned with God&rsquo;s love and truth, and how this overflow can impact those around us.
Join the Conversation:
We want to hear from you! What do you find fills your heart the most? Share your insights and experiences with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. How do you ensure your heart overflows with love and gratitude? Let&rsquo;s encourage one another to nurture our hearts in faith!
🎙 ❤️ SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW - YOUR NIGHTLY PRAYER: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/" data-start="832" data-end="928">https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/</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

From the Overflow of the Heart

Ever feel like you’ve only scratched the surface of what God’s doing in your life? In today’s devotional, Whitney Hopler reflects on John 21:25 and reminds us that Jesus is constantly at work — in ways we can see and in countless ways we can’t. The beauty of following Christ is that the story isn’t finished, and there’s always more to discover, learn, and experience with Him.

✨ Key Takeaways

💡 Jesus’ work didn’t stop when His earthly ministry ended — it continues every day in your life
💡 The Bible is an endless well of wisdom, but Jesus is also writing His story through your life experiences
💡 Pay attention to the “small miracles” — the peace, the encouragement, and those perfectly timed answers to prayer
💡 Journaling God’s faithfulness can help you track His hand in your daily life
💡 Faith is an ongoing, lifelong journey of discovery, growth, and awe

🌿 Intersecting Faith & Life


Recall a moment when God answered a prayer in an unexpected way — how did that shift your faith perspective?


What simple habits could help you notice Jesus’ work in your life more consistently?


Could you carve out a weekly check-in with yourself and God to reflect on what He’s doing in your heart and circumstances?


How might you intentionally keep learning and growing in your faith, year after year?

📖 Further Reading

Psalm 40:5 | Job 5:9 | Romans 11:33 | Ecclesiastes 3:11 | Ephesians 3:20

🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer

🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts:Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews

Full Transcript Below:

There is Always More to Discover with Jesus

By: Whitney Hopler 

“Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.” – John 21:25, NIV 

This is one of my favorite Bible verses, because it sparks my curiosity so much! I love how it points out that there’s much more for us to discover about Jesus. Not only did Jesus do so much during his earthly life that the world wouldn’t have room for all the books to tell us about it, but Jesus is constantly working now. Our wonderful Savior is doing so much, all the time, that we always have something more we can learn about it. That means we can be lifelong learners who are constantly going on exciting learning journeys with Jesus! 

Day by day, we see Jesus’ work in various ways, such as through his guidance, inspiration, and love. But how much more is happening behind the scenes? How many prayers is Jesus answering in ways we won’t fully understand until we get to heaven? How many times is Jesus protecting us from danger we don’t even know is near? Jesus is always working to accomplish good purposes in our lives – and often, he does so in mysterious ways.

When you realize that you only see a fraction of the work Jesus is doing, an important question to consider is: Are you paying attention? 

Since Jesus’ work is so vast, you should never stop seeking to know him more. No matter how much you grow in your faith, there will always be more to discover about Jesus – and with Jesus, as you walk with him through each day of your life.

Think about it this way: If there were books upon books filled with Jesus’ works, wouldn’t you want to keep reading them? Wouldn’t you want to keep exploring to learn more about Jesus’ wonderful wisdom? The Bible itself is filled with stories and teachings that you can study for a lifetime and still discover fresh insights. But beyond the Bible, Jesus is writing a record of inspiring work in your life, and it’s important for you to read it.

The key to experiencing the daily wonders of God’s work in your life is to pay attention to the ways Jesus moves on a regular basis. Jesus’ miracles weren’t just occasional dramatic healings or supernatural events. They were also small yet significant experiences of positive change that happened regularly – enlightening conversations with people, acts of love, and more. Jesus still moves in these ways today! 

So, to start discovering more with Jesus, start paying attention to the little glimpses you notice of his work in your life – like the peace you feel during prayer, the encouragement that comes just when you need it, and the way a Bible verse speaks directly to your situation. Consider keeping a journal of Jesus’ faithfulness. Write down the ways he answers your prayers, the lessons he teaches you, and the experiences when you notice his presence with you. Over time, you’ll begin to see just how much Jesus is at work in your life.

John 21:25 should inspire you to live with a sense of awe. If Jesus has done so much that the world itself couldn’t contain it all, then imagine how much wonderful work he is doing in your life! You should never become complacent in your faith. There is always more to discover with Jesus and more ways to grow in your relationship with him.

As you continue to walk with Jesus, make a commitment to be a lifelong learner – always paying attention to the wonder of Jesus’ work in your daily life. The story of Jesus isn’t finished. Jesus is still writing it, in and through you and other people, every single day! 

Intersecting Faith and Life 

As you consider how there is always more to discover with Jesus, reflect on these questions:
Think about a time when you were surprised by how Jesus answered one of your prayers. How did that affect your faith?
What are some ways you can become more aware of Jesus’ wonderful work in your everyday experiences? 
How can you plan regular times in your schedule to reflect on what Jesus is doing in your life, and enjoy being inspired with awe? 
In what ways can you commit to lifelong learning in your walk with Jesus?

Further Reading

Psalm 40:5

Job 5:9

Romans 11:33

Ecclesiastes 3:11

Ephesians 3:20

Ever feel like you&rsquo;ve only scratched the surface of what God&rsquo;s doing in your life? In today&rsquo;s devotional, Whitney Hopler reflects on John 21:25 and reminds us that Jesus is constantly at work &mdash; in ways we can see and in countless ways we can&rsquo;t. The beauty of following Christ is that the story isn&rsquo;t finished, and there&rsquo;s always more to discover, learn, and experience with Him.
<hr data-start="632" data-end="635">
✨ Key Takeaways
💡 Jesus&rsquo; work didn&rsquo;t stop when His earthly ministry ended &mdash; it continues every day in your life 💡 The Bible is an endless well of wisdom, but Jesus is also writing His story through your life experiences 💡 Pay attention to the &ldquo;small miracles&rdquo; &mdash; the peace, the encouragement, and those perfectly timed answers to prayer 💡 Journaling God&rsquo;s faithfulness can help you track His hand in your daily life 💡 Faith is an ongoing, lifelong journey of discovery, growth, and awe
<hr data-start="1143" data-end="1146">
🌿 Intersecting Faith &amp; Life
<ul data-start="1182" data-end="1600">
<li data-start="1182" data-end="1294">
Recall a moment when God answered a prayer in an unexpected way &mdash; how did that shift your faith perspective?
</li>
<li data-start="1295" data-end="1383">
What simple habits could help you notice Jesus&rsquo; work in your life more consistently?
</li>
<li data-start="1384" data-end="1510">
Could you carve out a weekly check-in with yourself and God to reflect on what He&rsquo;s doing in your heart and circumstances?
</li>
<li data-start="1511" data-end="1600">
How might you intentionally keep learning and growing in your faith, year after year?
</li>
</ul>
<hr data-start="1602" data-end="1605">
📖 Further Reading
Psalm 40:5 | Job 5:9 | Romans 11:33 | Ecclesiastes 3:11 | Ephesians 3:20
<hr>
🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW &mdash; <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/">Your Nightly Prayer</a>
🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/crosswalk-talk-celebrity-christian-interviews/">Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews</a>
<hr>
Full Transcript Below:
There is Always More to Discover with Jesus
By: Whitney Hopler&nbsp;
&ldquo;Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.&rdquo; &ndash; John 21:25, NIV&nbsp;
This is one of my favorite Bible verses, because it sparks my curiosity so much! I love how it points out that there&rsquo;s much more for us to discover about Jesus. Not only did Jesus do so much during his earthly life that the world wouldn&rsquo;t have room for all the books to tell us about it, but Jesus is constantly working now. Our wonderful Savior is doing so much, all the time, that we always have something more we can learn about it. That means<a href="https://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/ibelieve-truth-a-devotional-for-women/the-art-of-lifelong-learning.html"> we can be lifelong learners</a> who are constantly going on exciting learning journeys with Jesus!&nbsp;
Day by day, we see Jesus&rsquo; work in various ways, such as through his guidance, inspiration, and love. But how much more is happening behind the scenes? How many prayers is Jesus answering in ways we won&rsquo;t fully understand until we get to heaven? How many times is Jesus protecting us from danger we don&rsquo;t even know is near? Jesus is always working to accomplish good purposes in our lives &ndash; and often, he does so<a href="https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/what-exploring-mysteries-can-show-you-about-god.html"> in mysterious ways</a>.
When you realize that you only see a fraction of the work Jesus is doing, an important question to consider is: Are you paying attention?&nbsp;
Since Jesus&rsquo; work is so vast, you should never stop seeking to know him more. No matter how much you grow in your faith, there will always be more to discover about Jesus &ndash; and with Jesus, as you walk with him through each day of your life.
Think about it this way: If there were books upon books filled with Jesus&rsquo; works, wouldn&rsquo;t you want to keep reading them? Wouldn&rsquo;t you want to keep exploring to learn more about Jesus&rsquo; wonderful wisdom? The Bible itself is filled with stories and teachings that you can study for a lifetime and still discover fresh insights. But beyond the Bible, Jesus is writing a record of inspiring work in your life, and it&rsquo;s important for you to read it.
The key to<a href="https://amzn.to/4fbNBmU"> experiencing the daily wonders of God&rsquo;s work in your life</a> is to pay attention to the ways Jesus moves on a regular basis. Jesus&rsquo; miracles weren&rsquo;t just occasional dramatic healings or supernatural events. They were also small yet significant experiences of positive change that happened regularly &ndash; enlightening conversations with people, acts of love, and more. Jesus still moves in these ways today!&nbsp;
So, to start discovering more with Jesus, start paying attention to the little glimpses you notice of his work in your life &ndash; like the peace you feel during prayer, the encouragement that comes just when you need it, and the way a Bible verse speaks directly to your situation. Consider keeping a journal of Jesus&rsquo; faithfulness. Write down the ways he answers your prayers, the lessons he teaches you, and the experiences when you<a href="https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/how-to-notice-god-with-you-throughout-your-day.html"> notice his presence with you</a>. Over time, you&rsquo;ll begin to see just how much Jesus is at work in your life.
John 21:25 should inspire you to live with a sense of awe. If Jesus has done so much that the world itself couldn&rsquo;t contain it all, then imagine how much wonderful work he is doing in your life! You should never become complacent in your faith. There is always more to discover with Jesus and more ways to grow in your relationship with him.
As you continue to walk with Jesus, make a commitment to be a lifelong learner &ndash; always paying attention to the wonder of Jesus&rsquo; work in your daily life. The story of Jesus isn&rsquo;t finished. Jesus is still writing it, in and through you and other people, every single day!&nbsp;
Intersecting Faith and Life&nbsp;
As you consider how there is always more to discover with Jesus, reflect on these questions:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Think about a time when you were surprised by how Jesus answered one of your prayers. How did that affect your faith?</li>
<li aria-level="1">What are some ways you can become more aware of Jesus&rsquo; wonderful work in your everyday experiences?&nbsp;</li>
<li aria-level="1">How can you plan regular times in your schedule to reflect on what Jesus is doing in your life, and enjoy being inspired with awe?&nbsp;</li>
<li aria-level="1">In what ways can you commit to lifelong learning in your walk with Jesus?</li>
</ul>
Further Reading
Psalm 40:5
Job 5:9
Romans 11:33
Ecclesiastes 3:11
Ephesians 3:20

There Is Always More to Discover with Jesus

Family — it’s a gift, a challenge, and sometimes a complicated mix of both. In today’s devotional, Aaron D’Anthony Brown reflects on the story of Joseph and his brothers in Genesis 37:3-4, unpacking how even the most dysfunctional family situations can be met with grace, wisdom, and faith.

If you’ve ever wrestled with family tension, painful words, or unresolved conflict, this episode offers perspective, encouragement, and biblical wisdom to help you navigate those tough relationships.

✨ Key Takeaways

💡 God values the family unit — even when it’s messy
💡 Joseph’s story reminds us that betrayal and brokenness don’t have to be the end of the story
💡 Prayer keeps us anchored when family drama threatens to overwhelm us
💡 Open, honest communication is a brave and essential step toward healing
💡 True reconciliation begins with listening well and extending forgiveness
💡 No matter how unreliable people may be, God remains steadfast, loving, and good

🌿 Intersecting Faith & Life


Who in your family might you need to have an honest conversation with?


Are there hurts you’ve held onto that it’s time to forgive?


How does Joseph’s story encourage you to keep trusting God, even in tough family dynamics?


Is there someone you’ve overlooked that God might be prompting you to reconcile with today?

📖 Further Reading

Exodus 20:12 | Psalm 27:10 | Ephesians 6:4 | 1 Timothy 5:8 | Matthew 5:38-39 | Matthew 10:35-37 | Matthew 18:15-17

🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW — Your Nightly Prayer

🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts:Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews

Full Transcript Below:

When Family Weighs You Down

By Aaron D’Anthony Brown

“Now Israel loved Joseph more than his other sons because Joseph was a son born to him in his old age, and he made a long-sleeved robe for him. When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than all his brothers, they hated him and could not bring themselves to speak peaceably to him.” (Genesis 37:3-4, CSB)

“We’re supposed to get along,” Dad used to say a lot to my sisters and me growing up. That was his reminder to prioritize our family bond over any reason for strife. Whenever I asked “Why?” with childish curiosity, my father’s answer was simple: “We’re family.”

Since those youthful days, at times I’ve still wondered why we should remain committed to family despite all odds. I’ve wondered while observing the ways family members turn on each other, gossip, and all sorts of drama they cause.

Today, however, the answer to my question is much clearer. We should value our households because God esteems the family unit. One great example that makes the case is the story of Joseph and his brothers.

In Genesis 37, Scripture introduces us to Joseph as a boy who receives prophetic dreams. After sharing these visions with his brothers, his own flesh and blood turns on him. First, they consider killing him before settling on just selling him into slavery. Not only did Joseph’s siblings commit the initial atrocity, but as later passages reveal, they also kept up the ruse for years to avoid any consequences. They only came clean when a famine hit the land, and circumstances forced them to come to terms with their sin. By then, Joseph was a young man whom Pharoah placed in charge of all of Egypt. The story concludes with reconciliation, forgiveness, and a bond between brothers that is surprisingly rekindled.

Like Joseph, we don’t get to pick our families, and thus, we often don’t get to choose what kind of problems they drag us into. While prophecies may not be the reason family weighs you down, other circumstances are to blame. Some trivial, some quite significant. If we are to learn from Joseph, how exactly do we stay afloat when family weighs us down?

Intersecting Faith & Life:

There are several takeaways from the story of Joseph that we can implement into our own familial relations.

Talk to God

Hearing prayer as a response to your circumstances probably sounds like a cliché, but the cliché rings true. Joseph never lost his relationship with God throughout the hardships. His faith kept him in line with God’s will and proved that what the Lord showed him through dreams came to fruition. That’s a reminder to us to trust God. Whatever the situation, God promises His presence and peace if we seek Him. God knows that family can be difficult, but His power is greater than any difficulty.

Communicate

As you seek God for direction, consider also talking to your family. Sometimes people don’t realize their behavior or words are negatively impacting you. Avoiding confrontation may feel comfortable in the moment, but this does nothing but exacerbate the issue. Instead, talk to your parents, child, sibling, whoever, and find a solution. The beauty of communication is that even if you don’t come up with something, at the very least, you understand one another better.

Listen Well

When you reach out to family to share what’s troubling you, don’t see communication simply as an opportunity to voice your own concerns. Relationships function when two people work together. Therefore, take the time to not just give feedback but also receive some as well. More than likely, you are not as blameless in the situation as you may have thought.

Seek Forgiveness

As experience teaches, families can say or do things that leave indelible marks on us. Trauma that we end up sorting out through counseling and prayer. Even if this is your situation, know that healing is possible. When we forgive those who have hurt us, we stop giving them permission to live in our minds. We also stop ourselves from dwelling on negative emotions. God forgives those who forgive, so be sure you do your part in moving forward as best you can.

Trust God

Family relations can be absolutely beautiful or downright disparaging. We don’t always know what we’re going to get each day, especially if we come from tumultuous families. Yet, even when relatives prove unreliable, God shows Himself to be consistent. He proves Himself to be good, reliable, and always loving. Like Joseph, trust Him to get you through your ordeal, relying on your connection to Him and other relationships that He sends you. 

Further Reading:
Exodus 20:12
Psalm 27:10
Ephesians 6:4
1 Timothy 5:8
Matthew 5:38-39
Matthew 10:35-37
Matthew 18:15-17

Family &mdash; it&rsquo;s a gift, a challenge, and sometimes a complicated mix of both. In today&rsquo;s devotional, Aaron D&rsquo;Anthony Brown reflects on the story of Joseph and his brothers in Genesis 37:3-4, unpacking how even the most dysfunctional family situations can be met with grace, wisdom, and faith.
If you&rsquo;ve ever wrestled with family tension, painful words, or unresolved conflict, this episode offers perspective, encouragement, and biblical wisdom to help you navigate those tough relationships.
<hr data-start="763" data-end="766">
✨ Key Takeaways
💡 God values the family unit &mdash; even when it&rsquo;s messy 💡 Joseph&rsquo;s story reminds us that betrayal and brokenness don&rsquo;t have to be the end of the story 💡 Prayer keeps us anchored when family drama threatens to overwhelm us 💡 Open, honest communication is a brave and essential step toward healing 💡 True reconciliation begins with listening well and extending forgiveness 💡 No matter how unreliable people may be, God remains steadfast, loving, and good
<hr data-start="1257" data-end="1260">
🌿 Intersecting Faith &amp; Life
<ul data-start="1296" data-end="1625">
<li data-start="1296" data-end="1370">
Who in your family might you need to have an honest conversation with?
</li>
<li data-start="1371" data-end="1434">
Are there hurts you&rsquo;ve held onto that it&rsquo;s time to forgive?
</li>
<li data-start="1435" data-end="1529">
How does Joseph&rsquo;s story encourage you to keep trusting God, even in tough family dynamics?
</li>
<li data-start="1530" data-end="1625">
Is there someone you&rsquo;ve overlooked that God might be prompting you to reconcile with today?
</li>
</ul>
<hr data-start="1627" data-end="1630">
📖 Further Reading
Exodus 20:12 | Psalm 27:10 | Ephesians 6:4 | 1 Timothy 5:8 | Matthew 5:38-39 | Matthew 10:35-37 | Matthew 18:15-17
<hr>
🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW &mdash; <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/">Your Nightly Prayer</a>
🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/crosswalk-talk-celebrity-christian-interviews/">Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews</a>
<hr>
Full Transcript Below:
When Family Weighs You Down
By Aaron D&rsquo;Anthony Brown &ldquo;Now Israel loved Joseph more than his other sons because Joseph was a son born to him in his old age, and he made a long-sleeved robe for him. When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than all his brothers, they hated him and could not bring themselves to speak peaceably to him.&rdquo; (Genesis 37:3-4, CSB)
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re supposed to get along,&rdquo; Dad used to say a lot to my sisters and me growing up. That was his reminder to prioritize our family bond over any reason for strife. Whenever I asked &ldquo;Why?&rdquo; with childish curiosity, my father&rsquo;s answer was simple: &ldquo;We&rsquo;re family.&rdquo;
Since those youthful days, at times I&rsquo;ve still wondered why we should remain committed to family despite all odds. I&rsquo;ve wondered while observing the ways family members turn on each other, gossip, and all sorts of drama they cause.
Today, however, the answer to my question is much clearer. We should value our households because God esteems the family unit. One great example that makes the case is the story of Joseph and his brothers.
In Genesis 37, Scripture introduces us to Joseph as a boy who receives prophetic dreams. After sharing these visions with his brothers, his own flesh and blood turns on him. First, they consider killing him before settling on just selling him into slavery. Not only did Joseph&rsquo;s siblings commit the initial atrocity, but as later passages reveal, they also kept up the ruse for years to avoid any consequences. They only came clean when a famine hit the land, and circumstances forced them to come to terms with their sin. By then, Joseph was a young man whom Pharoah placed in charge of all of Egypt. The story concludes with reconciliation, forgiveness, and a bond between brothers that is surprisingly rekindled.
Like Joseph, we don&rsquo;t get to pick our families, and thus, we often don&rsquo;t get to choose what kind of problems they drag us into. While prophecies may not be the reason family weighs you down, other circumstances are to blame. Some trivial, some quite significant. If we are to learn from Joseph, how exactly do we stay afloat when family weighs us down?
Intersecting Faith &amp; Life:
There are several takeaways from the story of Joseph that we can implement into our own familial relations.
Talk to God
Hearing prayer as a response to your circumstances probably sounds like a clich&eacute;, but the clich&eacute; rings true. Joseph never lost his relationship with God throughout the hardships. His faith kept him in line with God&rsquo;s will and proved that what the Lord showed him through dreams came to fruition. That&rsquo;s a reminder to us to trust God. Whatever the situation, God promises His presence and peace if we seek Him. God knows that family can be difficult, but His power is greater than any difficulty.
Communicate
As you seek God for direction, consider also talking to your family. Sometimes people don&rsquo;t realize their behavior or words are negatively impacting you. Avoiding confrontation may feel comfortable in the moment, but this does nothing but exacerbate the issue. Instead, talk to your parents, child, sibling, whoever, and find a solution. The beauty of communication is that even if you don&rsquo;t come up with something, at the very least, you understand one another better.
Listen Well
When you reach out to family to share what&rsquo;s troubling you, don&rsquo;t see communication simply as an opportunity to voice your own concerns. Relationships function when two people work together. Therefore, take the time to not just give feedback but also receive some as well. More than likely, you are not as blameless in the situation as you may have thought.
Seek Forgiveness
As experience teaches, families can say or do things that leave indelible marks on us. Trauma that we end up sorting out through counseling and prayer. Even if this is your situation, know that healing is possible. When we forgive those who have hurt us, we stop giving them permission to live in our minds. We also stop ourselves from dwelling on negative emotions. God forgives those who forgive, so be sure you do your part in moving forward as best you can.
Trust God
Family relations can be absolutely beautiful or downright disparaging. We don&rsquo;t always know what we&rsquo;re going to get each day, especially if we come from tumultuous families. Yet, even when relatives prove unreliable, God shows Himself to be consistent. He proves Himself to be good, reliable, and always loving. Like Joseph, trust Him to get you through your ordeal, relying on your connection to Him and other relationships that He sends you.&nbsp;
Further Reading:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Exodus 20:12</li>
<li aria-level="1">Psalm 27:10</li>
<li aria-level="1">Ephesians 6:4</li>
<li aria-level="1">1 Timothy 5:8</li>
<li aria-level="1">Matthew 5:38-39</li>
<li aria-level="1">Matthew 10:35-37</li>
<li aria-level="1">Matthew 18:15-17</li>
</ul>

When Family Weighs You Down 

Ever find yourself sensing a nudge from God to do something that feels… well, a little off-the-wall? Maybe you’ve prayed, waited, and still felt unsure. In today’s devotional, Keri Eichberger shares a personal story of unexpected promptings, hesitant obedience, and the comforting truth found in Psalm 33:10-11 — that God’s good plan for us is firm, unshaken by our uncertainty or decisions.

If you’re facing a big decision, wrestling with mixed emotions, or waiting for a clear answer, this message will meet you right where you are.

✨ Key Takeaways

💡 God’s plans stand firm — no matter our uncertainty
💡 When we genuinely seek God’s will, we can move forward in faith knowing He’ll direct or redirect our steps
💡 Psalm 33:10-11 reminds us that God can foil or thwart any plan not aligned with His purposes — and that’s a good thing
💡 We can live with peace, taking faithful steps, because God’s ultimate plan for our good will always prevail

💬 Join the Conversation

Have you ever wrestled with a decision and sensed God nudging you forward in faith? Or maybe you’ve watched Him thwart a plan that wasn’t His best for you. We’d love to hear your story! Connect with us on social media @LifeAudioNetwork or leave a message on Crosswalk.com. Let’s encourage one another with how God’s faithful hand has guided us through life’s twists and turns.

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Full Transcript Below: 

Your Choice Won’t Change God’s Good Plan

By Keri Eichberger

The LORD foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. (Psalm 33:10-11) 

I wasn't necessarily even looking for a job. But for some odd reason the opportunity kept randomly bursting into my thoughts. It seemed so bizarre that I never spoke a word of it to anyone. My husband would have been my first friend to share the strange promptings, but I was certain he would simply look at me sideways, laugh it off, and say how super off the wall the notion was. But nonetheless, about an hour after my regular morning prayer time of seeking God's will for my day and life, it popped up again. And I had to let it spill. I told Mike I almost didn't say a word about this absurd idea, except that in some strange way this crazy thought reminded me of my initial series of promptings before God called me to have my last baby-turned-twins. And considering the divine way that worked out, it was the resemblance of stirrings and signals that got my attention. The crazier part was what followed my confession. Mike didn't think I’d lost my mind—like he may have when I first announced God's call to a baby—but he was intrigued instead. And before I knew it, he was encouraging me to inquire. 

I knew the drill from here—lots of prayer would have to follow. But in the end, though the promptings were still strong, I just wasn't sure. Determining whether or not to have a baby I had as much time as I wanted to discern and decide. But in this case, the job opening would close in a couple of days, so I had to apply ASAP. I begged God to be clear with what to do. On one hand, this undertaking didn't seem to fit in my plans and current conditions. But on the other hand, the desire to do it anyway remained.

Have you ever noticed a nudge or strong desire to do something that in many ways made no sense? Or have you asked God to be clear if you should or shouldn't, and the desire neither deepened nor dimmed? And maybe like me, you felt you didn't have time to sit and wait for more cues and clues.

I have to say, it's in these difficult decisions that I am so thankful for God's word. My husband told me the other day he’d recently heard a speaker say, “If you want to hear the audible voice of God, open your Bible and read it out loud.” And I absolutely loved this, because I was certainly in need of God’s prompt audible instruction.

In light of that suggestion, if you need confirmation from God on a decision, here is a verse you may need to read out loud with me that came straight from my devotion the following morning. Psalm 33:10 says, “The Lord foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples.” Now, truth be told, before I actually applied this specifically to my situation, I had to look up the exact definition of foil and thwart. Google tells me that “foil” means to prevent something (considered wrong or undesirable) from succeeding, and similarly “thwart” means to prevent someone from accomplishing something. Relating these definitions to the verse, God is telling me that if I am truly unsure, it’s really not necessary to stress and mull over my choice for long, because if whatever I decide is not in line with God's plan, he won't allow it to happen anyway. He will foil and thwart my plan. So I can move forward following the promptings—and in peace. And so, I applied for the job. I obediently took a step in faith. And so can you.

Intersecting Faith and Life:

If you are wholeheartedly asking God what he wants, and wholeheartedly ultimately wanting what he wants, you can follow where he's steering your spirit. And with confidence. Because of the verse in Psalm 33 that follows. Which says, “But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.” You may have no idea where your choice will take you, just like I’m unsure where my recent decision will lead me. But what I do know, is that we can and should act in obedience toward where God is calling, because our choices–as Christians who remain in him–won’t change God’s ultimate plan or move us outside of his purpose. Because friend, God's good and prosperous plan for your life, and all those who love him, will always prevail. 

Ever find yourself sensing a nudge from God to do something that feels&hellip; well, a little off-the-wall? Maybe you&rsquo;ve prayed, waited, and still felt unsure. In today&rsquo;s devotional, Keri Eichberger shares a personal story of unexpected promptings, hesitant obedience, and the comforting truth found in Psalm 33:10-11 &mdash; that God&rsquo;s good plan for us is firm, unshaken by our uncertainty or decisions.
If you&rsquo;re facing a big decision, wrestling with mixed emotions, or waiting for a clear answer, this message will meet you right where you are.
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✨ Key Takeaways
💡 God&rsquo;s plans stand firm &mdash; no matter our uncertainty 💡 When we genuinely seek God&rsquo;s will, we can move forward in faith knowing He&rsquo;ll direct or redirect our steps 💡 Psalm 33:10-11 reminds us that God can foil or thwart any plan not aligned with His purposes &mdash; and that&rsquo;s a good thing 💡 We can live with peace, taking faithful steps, because God&rsquo;s ultimate plan for our good will always prevail
<hr>
💬 Join the Conversation
Have you ever wrestled with a decision and sensed God nudging you forward in faith? Or maybe you&rsquo;ve watched Him thwart a plan that wasn&rsquo;t His best for you. We&rsquo;d love to hear your story! Connect with us on social media @LifeAudioNetwork or leave a message on Crosswalk.com. Let&rsquo;s encourage one another with how God&rsquo;s faithful hand has guided us through life&rsquo;s twists and turns.
<hr data-start="2125" data-end="2128">
🎙️ Be sure to follow The Crosswalk Devotional podcast on your favorite app &mdash; new episodes every Monday through Friday. Don&rsquo;t miss a single word of encouragement and truth rooted in God&rsquo;s Word.
🎙🎶 SUBSCRIBE to our NEW SHOW &mdash; <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/">Your Nightly Prayer</a>
🌟 Check out other Crosswalk Podcasts: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/crosswalk-talk-celebrity-christian-interviews/">Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews</a>
<hr>
Full Transcript Below:&nbsp;
Your Choice Won&rsquo;t Change God&rsquo;s Good Plan
By Keri Eichberger
The LORD foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. (Psalm 33:10-11)&nbsp;
I wasn't necessarily even looking for a job. But for some odd reason the opportunity kept randomly bursting into my thoughts. It seemed so bizarre that I never spoke a word of it to anyone. My husband would have been my first friend to share the strange promptings, but I was certain he would simply look at me sideways, laugh it off, and say how super off the wall the notion was. But nonetheless, about an hour after my regular morning prayer time of seeking God's will for my day and life, it popped up again. And I had to let it spill. I told Mike I almost didn't say a word about this absurd idea, except that in some strange way this crazy thought reminded me of my initial series of promptings before God called me to have my last baby-turned-twins. And considering the divine way that worked out, it was the resemblance of stirrings and signals that got my attention. The crazier part was what followed my confession. Mike didn't think I&rsquo;d lost my mind&mdash;like he may have when I first announced God's call to a baby&mdash;but he was intrigued instead. And before I knew it, he was encouraging me to inquire.&nbsp;
I knew the drill from here&mdash;lots of prayer would have to follow. But in the end, though the promptings were still strong, I just wasn't sure. Determining whether or not to have a baby I had as much time as I wanted to discern and decide. But in this case, the job opening would close in a couple of days, so I had to apply ASAP. I begged God to be clear with what to do. On one hand, this undertaking didn't seem to fit in my plans and current conditions. But on the other hand, the desire to do it anyway remained.
Have you ever noticed a nudge or strong desire to do something that in many ways made no sense? Or have you asked God to be clear if you should or shouldn't, and the desire neither deepened nor dimmed? And maybe like me, you felt you didn't have time to sit and wait for more cues and clues.
I have to say, it's in these difficult decisions that I am so thankful for God's word. My husband told me the other day he&rsquo;d recently heard a speaker say, &ldquo;If you want to hear the audible voice of God, open your Bible and read it out loud.&rdquo; And I absolutely loved this, because I was certainly in need of God&rsquo;s prompt audible instruction.
In light of that suggestion, if you need confirmation from God on a decision, here is a verse you may need to read out loud with me that came straight from my devotion the following morning. Psalm 33:10 says, &ldquo;The Lord foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples.&rdquo; Now, truth be told, before I actually applied this specifically to my situation, I had to look up the exact definition of foil and thwart. Google tells me that &ldquo;foil&rdquo; means to prevent something (considered wrong or undesirable) from succeeding, and similarly &ldquo;thwart&rdquo; means to prevent someone from accomplishing something. Relating these definitions to the verse, God is telling me that if I am truly unsure, it&rsquo;s really not necessary to stress and mull over my choice for long, because if whatever I decide is not in line with God's plan, he won't allow it to happen anyway. He will foil and thwart my plan. So I can move forward following the promptings&mdash;and in peace. And so, I applied for the job. I obediently took a step in faith. And so can you.
Intersecting Faith and Life:
If you are wholeheartedly asking God what he wants, and wholeheartedly ultimately wanting what he wants, you can follow where he's steering your spirit. And with confidence. Because of the verse in Psalm 33 that follows. Which says, &ldquo;But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.&rdquo; You may have no idea where your choice will take you, just like I&rsquo;m unsure where my recent decision will lead me. But what I do know, is that we can and should act in obedience toward where God is calling, because our choices&ndash;as Christians who remain in him&ndash;won&rsquo;t change God&rsquo;s ultimate plan or move us outside of his purpose. Because friend, God's good and prosperous plan for your life, and all those who love him, will always prevail.&nbsp;

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