With everything happening in our world today, does God really expect us not to be anxious? The short answer is yes. God tells us not to be anxious about anything. And he goes on to say when he expects this of us. - Anne Peterson

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/

With everything happening in our world today, does God really expect us not to be anxious? The short answer is yes. God tells us not to be anxious about anything. And he goes on to say when he expects this of us. - Anne Peterson
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

What to Do When You're Anxious

Jesus Christ is our unbreakable lifeline, offering hope, strength, and security in every season of life. Hebrews 6:18-20 reminds us that through Christ we have a steadfast hope anchored in God's presence. Discover why prayer is more than a habit—it's our direct connection to the Savior who never leaves us or turns us away.

Life often tempts us to look for comfort in people, achievements, or temporary things when we feel overwhelmed. In today's devotional, Alexis A. Goring reflects on how everyday experiences reveal a deeper truth: while people and circumstances may fail us, Jesus remains our constant source of hope and strength. Through prayer, we can bring every fear, burden, and unanswered question directly to Him.

Highlights:
Discover what Hebrews 6:18-20 teaches about the hope we have in Christ.
Learn why prayer is our spiritual lifeline during difficult seasons.
Be encouraged to depend on Jesus instead of people or temporary comforts.
Find reassurance that Christ welcomes every fear, doubt, and burden we bring to Him.
Understand how Jesus' constant presence gives lasting peace and security.
Be reminded that our greatest hope is anchored in Christ alone.

Resources Mentioned
Song:Lifeline — Mandisa
Song:That's Who You Are — Megan Tibbits
Song:Don't Stop Praying — Matthew West
Song:Jesus Walks with Me — Be Still Studios

Join the Conversation

What has helped you stay anchored to Christ during difficult seasons? We'd love to hear how prayer has strengthened your faith and reminded you that Jesus is your true lifeline.

Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/

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:

Our Lifeline

By Alexis A. Goring

Bible Reading:

“We who have run for our very lives to God have every reason to grab the promised hope with both hands and never let go. It’s an unbreakable spiritual lifeline, reaching past all appearances right to the very presence of God where Jesus, running on ahead of us, has taken up his permanent post as high priest for us, in the order of Melchizedek.” - Hebrews 6:18-20 (MSG)

A few years ago, while waiting to be seen in a hospital, I stepped into the women’s restroom and saw something that inspired this devotional: a lifeline. It was a red label with white-inked words instructing me to pull the attached red string if I needed help. The sight of this made me think about how Jesus Christ is our lifeline.

Earlier this year, I saw a reel via Instagram of a young girl around age 11 or 12. She was captured on camera rushing onto the concert stage before security could catch her and embracing her favorite singer. Prior to this, I could see that the singer was performing at a calm, steady pace as she walked across the stage, holding the microphone near her face. When the young girl rushed onto the stage, the singer wasn’t fazed. She let the young girl wrap her arms around her waist and rest her head on her midsection as she leaned in for a tight hug that obviously meant the world to her. This girl received a 10-second embrace before security reached her and carried her away.

When I saw this reel, it spoke volumes to me because it helped me realize several things. I realized that I have been there before because I have had favorite singers over the years—both secular and Christian—and I know what it’s like to cope with their music to the point where it feels like your favorite singer and their songs are your lifeline. When feeling sad or depressed, I would listen to a song that served as catharsis for my feelings, working it out of my system until I felt better. 

It was obvious to me that the singer in the Instagram reel was that young girl’s lifeline. Her music must have brought this girl through tough times and inspired her heart. Whether feeling happy or sad, this singer’s songs were obviously the soundtrack to her fans’ lives. It was obvious that she loved this musician with all her heart. It was also clear that this singer appreciated her fans because she let this girl hug her for more than a second without pushing her away. 

Jesus Christ also never pushes us away. And unlike any human—famous singer or not—He is our true lifeline. Only Jesus can save our souls. And He gave us a beautiful way to reach Him as our lifeline. That gift is prayer. 

I follow a page on Instagram that’s hosted by Ellie Mont. Last year, she said something very profound about prayer being our lifeline. These are a few quotes from her post on Instagram that support my devotional message today:

First, she acknowledges that life can be hard for most people. Mont said, “Life often feels like a series of challenges and roadblocks that drain our strength. We try to be strong, to figure it all out on our own, but sometimes it just feels like too much. In those moments, we must remember we do not walk alone.”

Second, she reminds us that Jesus walks with us. She also delivers a powerful line about the gift God gave us to reach Him and communicate with Him. Mont said, “Prayer is more than a religious habit or a last resort. It is a lifeline. It is a personal conversation with the God who created you, who sees everything you face, and who cares about every detail of your life. When you cannot handle the weight of your problems, you can bring them to the One who can. God does not ask you to be perfect. He asks you to come to Him just as you are.”

Third, Mont reminds us that God wants to hear our hearts no matter how we feel or how messy it seems. She said, “You can be honest with Him. You can tell Him your fears, your doubts, your confusion, and your pain. There is nothing too small or too big for God to handle. He is not bothered by your questions or your tears. He welcomes them. He is a Father who wants to help you and walk with you through every season.”

Finally, Mont gives us a word of encouragement for when we feel too discouraged to pray. She said, “Don’t let discouragement silence your voice. Do not let fear steal your hope. Keep praying. Keep trusting. God hears every word, even the ones you cannot say out loud. He sees your heart, and He is working even when you do not see it. You are not alone. You are not forgotten. You are not powerless. You are loved by a God who listens.”

In closing, I’d like to say: Be careful not to make a human or anything that is not God your god or your lifeline, because there is only one true God and one way to heaven. The way is Jesus Christ (John 14:6). He is our lifeline. We need to cling to Christ more than we cling to anybody or anything else.

Before you go, please listen to these four songs (below) and reflect on the lyrics.

Song of Reflection #1: “Lifeline” by Mandisa. Listen to it HERE. 

Song of Reflection #2: “That’s Who You Are” (Original song by Megan Tibbits). Listen to it HERE.

Song of Reflection #3: “Don’t Stop Praying” by Matthew West. Listen to it HERE.

Song of Reflection #4: “Jesus Walks with Me” by Be Still Studios. Listen to it HERE.

Intersecting Faith & Life:

How does it feel to know that Jesus Christ is our Lifeline? What have you been clinging to more than Christ?

Further Reading:
Luke 18:1
John 3:16-17
John 11:25-26
John 15:5
Hebrews 4:16

Jesus Christ is our unbreakable lifeline, offering hope, strength, and security in every season of life. Hebrews 6:18-20 reminds us that through Christ we have a steadfast hope anchored in God's presence. Discover why prayer is more than a habit&mdash;it's our direct connection to the Savior who never leaves us or turns us away.
Life often tempts us to look for comfort in people, achievements, or temporary things when we feel overwhelmed. In today's devotional, Alexis A. Goring reflects on how everyday experiences reveal a deeper truth: while people and circumstances may fail us, Jesus remains our constant source of hope and strength. Through prayer, we can bring every fear, burden, and unanswered question directly to Him.
Highlights:
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>Discover what Hebrews 6:18-20 teaches about the hope we have in Christ.</li>
<li>Learn why prayer is our spiritual lifeline during difficult seasons.</li>
<li>Be encouraged to depend on Jesus instead of people or temporary comforts.</li>
<li>Find reassurance that Christ welcomes every fear, doubt, and burden we bring to Him.</li>
<li>Understand how Jesus' constant presence gives lasting peace and security.</li>
<li>Be reminded that our greatest hope is anchored in Christ alone.</li>
</ul>
Resources Mentioned
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>Song: Lifeline &mdash; Mandisa</li>
<li>Song: That's Who You Are &mdash; Megan Tibbits</li>
<li>Song: Don't Stop Praying &mdash; Matthew West</li>
<li>Song: Jesus Walks with Me &mdash; Be Still Studios</li>
</ul>
Join the Conversation
What has helped you stay anchored to Christ during difficult seasons? We'd love to hear how prayer has strengthened your faith and reminded you that Jesus is your true lifeline.
Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: <a href="https://forums.crosswalk.com/">https://forums.crosswalk.com/</a>
Do you want to listen ad-free?
When you join&nbsp;Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors&mdash;resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.crosswalk.com/subscribe/?utm_source=subscribe_page&amp;utm_medium=YDBV&amp;utm_campaign=YDBV_PLUS">Sign Up Today!</a>
<hr>
Full Transcript Below:
Our Lifeline
By Alexis A. Goring
Bible Reading:
&ldquo;We who have run for our very lives to God have every reason to grab the promised hope with both hands and never let go. It&rsquo;s an unbreakable spiritual lifeline, reaching past all appearances right to the very presence of God where Jesus, running on ahead of us, has taken up his permanent post as high priest for us, in the order of Melchizedek.&rdquo; - Hebrews 6:18-20 (MSG)
A few years ago, while waiting to be seen in a hospital, I stepped into the women&rsquo;s restroom and saw something that inspired this devotional: a lifeline. It was a red label with white-inked words instructing me to pull the attached red string if I needed help. The sight of this made me think about how Jesus Christ is our lifeline.
Earlier this year, I saw a reel via Instagram of a young girl around age 11 or 12. She was captured on camera rushing onto the concert stage before security could catch her and embracing her favorite singer. Prior to this, I could see that the singer was performing at a calm, steady pace as she walked across the stage, holding the microphone near her face. When the young girl rushed onto the stage, the singer wasn&rsquo;t fazed. She let the young girl wrap her arms around her waist and rest her head on her midsection as she leaned in for a tight hug that obviously meant the world to her. This girl received a 10-second embrace before security reached her and carried her away.
When I saw this reel, it spoke volumes to me because it helped me realize several things. I realized that I have been there before because I have had favorite singers over the years&mdash;both secular and Christian&mdash;and I know what it&rsquo;s like to cope with their music to the point where it feels like your favorite singer and their songs are your lifeline. When feeling sad or depressed, I would listen to a song that served as catharsis for my feelings, working it out of my system until I felt better.&nbsp;
It was obvious to me that the singer in the Instagram reel was that young girl&rsquo;s lifeline. Her music must have brought this girl through tough times and inspired her heart. Whether feeling happy or sad, this singer&rsquo;s songs were obviously the soundtrack to her fans&rsquo; lives. It was obvious that she loved this musician with all her heart. It was also clear that this singer appreciated her fans because she let this girl hug her for more than a second without pushing her away.&nbsp;
Jesus Christ also never pushes us away. And unlike any human&mdash;famous singer or not&mdash;He is our true lifeline. Only Jesus can save our souls. And He gave us a beautiful way to reach Him as our lifeline. That gift is prayer.&nbsp;
I follow a page on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/elliemontt/">Instagram</a> that&rsquo;s hosted by Ellie Mont. Last year, she said something very profound about prayer being our lifeline. These are a few quotes from her post on Instagram that support my devotional message today:
First, she acknowledges that life can be hard for most people. Mont said, &ldquo;Life often feels like a series of challenges and roadblocks that drain our strength. We try to be strong, to figure it all out on our own, but sometimes it just feels like too much. In those moments, we must remember we do not walk alone.&rdquo;
Second, she reminds us that Jesus walks with us. She also delivers a powerful line about the gift God gave us to reach Him and communicate with Him. Mont said, &ldquo;Prayer is more than a religious habit or a last resort. It is a lifeline. It is a personal conversation with the God who created you, who sees everything you face, and who cares about every detail of your life. When you cannot handle the weight of your problems, you can bring them to the One who can. God does not ask you to be perfect. He asks you to come to Him just as you are.&rdquo;
Third, Mont reminds us that God wants to hear our hearts no matter how we feel or how messy it seems. She said, &ldquo;You can be honest with Him. You can tell Him your fears, your doubts, your confusion, and your pain. There is nothing too small or too big for God to handle. He is not bothered by your questions or your tears. He welcomes them. He is a Father who wants to help you and walk with you through every season.&rdquo;
Finally, Mont gives us a word of encouragement for when we feel too discouraged to pray. She said, &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t let discouragement silence your voice. Do not let fear steal your hope. Keep praying. Keep trusting. God hears every word, even the ones you cannot say out loud. He sees your heart, and He is working even when you do not see it. You are not alone. You are not forgotten. You are not powerless. You are loved by a God who listens.&rdquo;
In closing, I&rsquo;d like to say: Be careful not to make a human or anything that is not God your god or your lifeline, because there is only one true God and one way to heaven. The way is Jesus Christ (John 14:6). He is our lifeline. We need to cling to Christ more than we cling to anybody or anything else.
Before you go, please listen to these four songs (below) and reflect on the lyrics.
Song of Reflection #1: &ldquo;Lifeline&rdquo; by Mandisa. Listen to it <a href="https://youtu.be/XuxiN08RXxM?si=m2sOWjsyjvhwReqA">HERE</a>.&nbsp;
Song of Reflection #2: &ldquo;That&rsquo;s Who You Are&rdquo; (Original song by Megan Tibbits). Listen to it <a href="https://youtu.be/-ZrV1g4xwcI?si=ThvspxNJ-Yg3uGB7">HERE</a>.
Song of Reflection #3: &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t Stop Praying&rdquo; by Matthew West. Listen to it <a href="https://youtu.be/8r0eA49MZ0w?si=9a4ibJ7DTQanoguP">HERE</a>.
Song of Reflection #4: &ldquo;Jesus Walks with Me&rdquo; by Be Still Studios. Listen to it <a href="https://youtu.be/28GOaWCRflw?si=j0CvXSziwHRjBd1w">HERE</a>.
Intersecting Faith &amp; Life:
How does it feel to know that Jesus Christ is our Lifeline? What have you been clinging to more than Christ?
Further Reading: Luke 18:1 John 3:16-17 John 11:25-26 John 15:5 Hebrews 4:16

Jesus Is Our Lifeline

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/38effe15-f09e-4d1c-a56a-b49400f32c06/transcript

The Holy Spirit gives believers hope, peace, and strength to endure life's storms. Romans 15:13 reminds us that God's power is always available, even when we feel weak, overwhelmed, or powerless. Discover how relying on the Holy Spirit helps us navigate hardship, grow in faith, and find lasting hope in every season.

Life has a way of reminding us how little control we really have. In today's devotional, Melinda Eye Cooper shares how a devastating winter ice storm and days without electricity became a powerful illustration of our dependence on God. Just as our homes cannot function without power, our spiritual lives cannot thrive apart from the Holy Spirit.

Highlights:
Discover what Romans 15:13 teaches about the power of the Holy Spirit.
Learn why life's storms reveal our need for God's strength and presence.
Be encouraged by how the Holy Spirit provides hope, peace, guidance, and comfort.
Understand how difficult seasons can deepen your faith and dependence on Christ.
Find reassurance that God never leaves you to face hardship alone.
Be reminded that true spiritual strength comes from the Holy Spirit, not ourselves.

Join the Conversation

How has God strengthened you through a difficult season? We'd love to hear how the Holy Spirit has encouraged, guided, or sustained your faith during life's storms.

Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/

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:

No Power

By Melinda Eye Cooper

Bible Reading: 

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. - Romans 15:13 NIV

Living in middle Tennessee for the past thirty-plus years, I can attest that we rarely see much snow. Schools often close if the forecast calls for anything frozen, including flurries. But we’ve had a few serious winter storms, and they almost always involve ice. 

In January of 2026, one of those storms came through our area. 

We did our best to prepare in case the power went out. We’d stocked up on bread, bottles of water, and snacks. My husband brought a generator home from work to help keep our refrigerator running and a small space heater. Thankfully, we had a wood-burning fireplace, so we figured at least we’d keep warm. 

Snow started turning into sleet on Saturday and eventually turned to freezing rain. Temperatures plummeted. Tree branches snapped under the weight of accumulating ice, falling on power lines. The sky flashed when a transformer blew with a loud pop.

Sunday, early in the morning, we lost power, and so did our neighbors. We tried to stay warm using the space heater and fireplace, but our house grew frigid. It was uncomfortable, to say the least. We barely slept the first night, even though we were using nearly every blanket we could find. 

It didn’t take long for reality to sink in. The power could be out for days or a week.

Our neighbors texted the next afternoon that they were heading to Kentucky to stay in a hotel. The storm wasn’t nearly as bad there. We did the same, taking our dog with us. 

Getting inside a warm hotel room with a nice soft bed was a sweet relief. The lights worked. The television worked. And a hot shower was minutes away. It didn’t take long to get nice and comfortable. 

When we received notice that power had been restored to our area a couple of days later, we made our way back home. The drive revealed a lot of damage. Even though the thick ice covering trees and grass glistened in the sunlight and was beautiful in a terrible way, the storm mostly left a trail of destruction with downed trees, telephone poles, and broken tree branches in its wake. The storm and loss of power over the next several days (and a couple of weeks for some) caused a lot of problems, and sadly, some folks didn’t survive. 

We came home to a mess. Electric cords were draped everywhere, from hooking things up to the generator, and blankets were piled up. It was freezing inside the house. The heat was on, but it took a long time for the house to warm back up. 

Honestly, seeing the mess reminded me just how much we really need power in our homes. We rely on it heavily for day-to-day life. It runs the stove, HVAC unit, refrigerator, freezer, water heater, washer and dryer, lighting, appliances, and television. Almost everything.

Even with our great efforts to prepare for a lack of power during the storm, it was still terrible. Our home quickly became uncomfortable without electricity. It seemed we could do nothing. 

We need power. 

Standing amidst the mess, it hit me spiritually. We need the Holy Spirit at every moment of our lives. We can’t do anything good without Him; we’d be uncomfortable, cold, and powerless. 

Intersecting Faith & Life:

As a saved person, I’m deeply thankful for what Jesus did for me. I’m still in love with Him after many years as a Christian. But to be honest, I’m just beside myself that God also gave us the indwelling, powerful Holy Spirit to help us in life. 

He does so many things for us, including:  
Reveals Jesus
Convicts us of sin
Teaches us
Reminds us
Encourages us
Protects us
Guides us
Warns us
Gives us hope and spiritual gifts
Tells us the truth
Helps us pray
Never leaves or forsakes us

When a storm of life comes, whether it is a financial struggle, divorce, or the death of a loved one, we may be brought to our knees. The powerful Holy Spirit is with us in these hardships. He is our shelter when these storms blow through. 

Those difficult times show us just how much we need Him and rely on His power. They draw us into a deeper, more trusting relationship with our beloved Father.

Father, thank You for giving us the powerful Holy Spirit to lead us through our lives. Helping us to grow closer to You and more like Jesus. In His name, Amen.

The Holy Spirit gives believers hope, peace, and strength to endure life's storms. Romans 15:13 reminds us that God's power is always available, even when we feel weak, overwhelmed, or powerless. Discover how relying on the Holy Spirit helps us navigate hardship, grow in faith, and find lasting hope in every season.
Life has a way of reminding us how little control we really have. In today's devotional, Melinda Eye Cooper shares how a devastating winter ice storm and days without electricity became a powerful illustration of our dependence on God. Just as our homes cannot function without power, our spiritual lives cannot thrive apart from the Holy Spirit.
Highlights:
<ul data-spread="false">
<li>Discover what Romans 15:13 teaches about the power of the Holy Spirit.</li>
<li>Learn why life's storms reveal our need for God's strength and presence.</li>
<li>Be encouraged by how the Holy Spirit provides hope, peace, guidance, and comfort.</li>
<li>Understand how difficult seasons can deepen your faith and dependence on Christ.</li>
<li>Find reassurance that God never leaves you to face hardship alone.</li>
<li>Be reminded that true spiritual strength comes from the Holy Spirit, not ourselves.</li>
</ul>
Join the Conversation
How has God strengthened you through a difficult season? We'd love to hear how the Holy Spirit has encouraged, guided, or sustained your faith during life's storms.
Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: <a href="https://forums.crosswalk.com/">https://forums.crosswalk.com/</a>
Do you want to listen ad-free?
When you join&nbsp;Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors&mdash;resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.crosswalk.com/subscribe/?utm_source=subscribe_page&amp;utm_medium=YDBV&amp;utm_campaign=YDBV_PLUS">Sign Up Today!</a>
<hr>
Full Transcript Below:
No Power
By Melinda Eye Cooper
Bible Reading:&nbsp;
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. - Romans 15:13 NIV
Living in middle Tennessee for the past thirty-plus years, I can attest that we rarely see much snow. Schools often close if the forecast calls for anything frozen, including flurries. But we&rsquo;ve had a few serious winter storms, and they almost always involve ice.&nbsp;
In January of 2026, one of those storms came through our area.&nbsp;
We did our best to prepare in case the power went out. We&rsquo;d stocked up on bread, bottles of water, and snacks. My husband brought a generator home from work to help keep our refrigerator running and a small space heater. Thankfully, we had a wood-burning fireplace, so we figured at least we&rsquo;d keep warm.&nbsp;
Snow started turning into sleet on Saturday and eventually turned to freezing rain. Temperatures plummeted. Tree branches snapped under the weight of accumulating ice, falling on power lines. The sky flashed when a transformer blew with a loud pop.
Sunday, early in the morning, we lost power, and so did our neighbors. We tried to stay warm using the space heater and fireplace, but our house grew frigid. It was uncomfortable, to say the least. We barely slept the first night, even though we were using nearly every blanket we could find.&nbsp;
It didn&rsquo;t take long for reality to sink in. The power could be out for days or a week.
Our neighbors texted the next afternoon that they were heading to Kentucky to stay in a hotel. The storm wasn&rsquo;t nearly as bad there. We did the same, taking our dog with us.&nbsp;
Getting inside a warm hotel room with a nice soft bed was a sweet relief. The lights worked. The television worked. And a hot shower was minutes away. It didn&rsquo;t take long to get nice and comfortable.&nbsp;
When we received notice that power had been restored to our area a couple of days later, we made our way back home. The drive revealed a lot of damage. Even though the thick ice covering trees and grass glistened in the sunlight and was beautiful in a terrible way, the storm mostly left a trail of destruction with downed trees, telephone poles, and broken tree branches in its wake. The storm and loss of power over the next several days (and a couple of weeks for some) caused a lot of problems, and sadly, some folks didn&rsquo;t survive.&nbsp;
We came home to a mess. Electric cords were draped everywhere, from hooking things up to the generator, and blankets were piled up. It was freezing inside the house. The heat was on, but it took a long time for the house to warm back up.&nbsp;
Honestly, seeing the mess reminded me just how much we really need power in our homes. We rely on it heavily for day-to-day life. It runs the stove, HVAC unit, refrigerator, freezer, water heater, washer and dryer, lighting, appliances, and television. Almost everything.
Even with our great efforts to prepare for a lack of power during the storm, it was still terrible. Our home quickly became uncomfortable without electricity. It seemed we could do nothing.&nbsp;
We need power.&nbsp;
Standing amidst the mess, it hit me spiritually. We need the Holy Spirit at every moment of our lives. We can&rsquo;t do anything good without Him; we&rsquo;d be uncomfortable, cold, and powerless.&nbsp;
Intersecting Faith &amp; Life:
As a saved person, I&rsquo;m deeply thankful for what Jesus did for me. I&rsquo;m still in love with Him after many years as a Christian. But to be honest, I&rsquo;m just beside myself that God also gave us the indwelling, powerful Holy Spirit to help us in life.&nbsp;
He does so many things for us, including:&nbsp;&nbsp;
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Reveals Jesus</li>
<li aria-level="1">Convicts us of sin</li>
<li aria-level="1">Teaches us</li>
<li aria-level="1">Reminds us</li>
<li aria-level="1">Encourages us</li>
<li aria-level="1">Protects us</li>
<li aria-level="1">Guides us</li>
<li aria-level="1">Warns us</li>
<li aria-level="1">Gives us hope and spiritual gifts</li>
<li aria-level="1">Tells us the truth</li>
<li aria-level="1">Helps us pray</li>
<li aria-level="1">Never leaves or forsakes us</li>
</ul>
When a storm of life comes, whether it is a financial struggle, divorce, or the death of a loved one, we may be brought to our knees. The powerful Holy Spirit is with us in these hardships. He is our shelter when these storms blow through.&nbsp;
Those difficult times show us just how much we need Him and rely on His power. They draw us into a deeper, more trusting relationship with our beloved Father.
Father, thank You for giving us the powerful Holy Spirit to lead us through our lives. Helping us to grow closer to You and more like Jesus. In His name, Amen.

Finding Strength through Life's Storms

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/0c8bb632-3eb3-4365-b3a7-b49400f327fd/transcript

What do you do when your prayers seem to go unanswered and God feels silent? In today's Crosswalk Devotional, we reflect on Psalm 13:1 and David’s honest cry: “How long, O Lord?” Seasons of waiting can leave us questioning whether God is listening, but Scripture reminds us that faith is not the absence of questions—it is choosing to trust God's character even when we cannot see His hand at work.

Psalm 13 shows us that God welcomes our honest prayers. Like David, we can bring our fears, doubts, and disappointments to Him without hiding them. As we remember His past faithfulness and cling to His promises, we discover that His silence is never the end of the story.

Highlights:
Discover how Psalm 13 teaches us to trust God during seasons of silence and unanswered prayer.
Learn why honest questions can strengthen, rather than weaken, your faith.
Understand how David models lament by bringing his pain directly to God instead of pulling away.
Be encouraged to remember God's past faithfulness when waiting for His future answers.
Explore why trust is a decision rooted in God's character—not simply a feeling.
Find hope in knowing that God continues to speak through His Word, even when His answers seem delayed.

Join the Conversation

Have you ever experienced a season when God felt silent? What has helped you continue trusting Him while you wait for His answers? We'd love to hear your story in the comments.

Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/

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:

Holding on When God Feels Silent

By: Sarah Frazer

Bible Reading:

“How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?  How long will you hide your face from me?” - Psalm 13:1 (ESV)

I looked at my journal from the beginning of the year. Six months had passed, and I realized several of my prayer requests remained unanswered. Several family members had been going through trials and needed help, but as I glanced at the list, God had not yet answered them. The phrase from Psalm 13 entered my mind: "How long, O God?"

Instantly, I felt guilty for having questioned God. But then I remembered that Psalm 13 was in the Bible, and if the psalmist was allowed to say those words, so was I. As I have begun to pray more, I have found it to stretch my faith. Mostly because many of my “big” prayers have yet to be answered. God’s silence is often very hard. 

Have you ever just wondered: Is God listening? 

Faith doesn’t ignore silence—it learns how to speak honestly to God within it.

In Psalm 13, we see the language of lament. David, the author, asks multiple “how long” questions here. Suffering, hardship, and sorrow were regular parts of David’s life, especially as he ran from the murdering king Saul. Including those questions here, David reminds us that God gives us permission to feel this longing. To feel the tension of having faith but feeling distant from God. Faith includes honest questions.

“How long, O Lord?” - Psalm 13:1

David continues in Psalm 13, bringing his pain to God. He doesn’t withdraw, but turns toward God. The whole of Psalm 13 is a prayer to God. We might shy away from being honest or be too hesitant to express our frustration with the unanswered prayers, but David helps us remember that God is big enough to handle all of our requests and questions. 

David asks for light, help, and intervention. Just because God hasn’t answered a prayer or feels silent doesn’t mean we stop praying. In faith, we continue to come to God and talk to Him. In the midst of his questions and doubts, David says, “But I trust…” (Psalm 13:5). The circumstances haven’t changed, but David’s focus has. Trust is a decision, not a feeling. David is honest about his feelings, but then holds on to the truth of God’s character. 

The rest of the psalm, the last verse especially, ends with a declaration of praise. It is a future praise - one that has yet to happen, but David says he knows God will answer! How? Because David has focused on two things. David says in Psalm 13:3, “O Lord, my God…” David has a personal relationship with God. One that was tested over time. God had already proven Himself faithful to David in the past, because in Psalm 13:6 Davida says,“ he has dealt bountifully with me.” 

A faith that holds on, in the midst of silence and doubts,focuses on these two things: a personal relationship with God and God’s past actions. Don’t think that this quiet season is a reflection of God’s love for you. God loved us first (1 John 4:19). You can question God and still trust him. In fact, Psalm 13 reminds us that God welcomes our questions. Silence is never the end of the story. Keep holding on! 

If you’re in a season where God feels quiet, I walk slowly through Psalm 13 on my podcast, Psalms to Help You Sleep, helping you turn your questions into prayer. Listening to God’s word can be a soothing balm to our weary souls. If prayer feels like too much, start with just a simple: “God, I want to trust you, but it's hard.” 

Intersecting Faith & Life:

God’s silence seems harsh, doesn’t it? One thing I need to remember, and I hope to encourage you to remember as well, is that ultimately God is never silent. Yes, our hearts feel as if God isn't speaking to us or answering our prayers. The truth we need is that God is always speaking, through His word. 


 The Bible is always available to us, and it is the light, the help, and the guidance we need in times of great hardship. In the midst of any situation, God’s word, the Bible, can provide hope. God welcomes you, even your questions. The silence is not the end of the story. As you go to God, no matter how you feel, answer these questions honestly before him. Start here:

Where does God feel silent right now?

What honest prayer needs to be spoken?

Further Reading:

Lamentations 3:22-23

Psalm 55:22

Philippians 4:6-7

1 Peter 5:7

Exodus 16:18-21

What do you do when your prayers seem to go unanswered and God feels silent? In today's Crosswalk Devotional, we reflect on Psalm 13:1 and David&rsquo;s honest cry: &ldquo;How long, O Lord?&rdquo; Seasons of waiting can leave us questioning whether God is listening, but Scripture reminds us that faith is not the absence of questions&mdash;it is choosing to trust God's character even when we cannot see His hand at work.
Psalm 13 shows us that God welcomes our honest prayers. Like David, we can bring our fears, doubts, and disappointments to Him without hiding them. As we remember His past faithfulness and cling to His promises, we discover that His silence is never the end of the story.
Highlights:
<ul data-start="775" data-end="1327">
<li data-section-id="19qnduz" data-start="775" data-end="875">Discover how Psalm 13 teaches us to trust God during seasons of silence and unanswered prayer.</li>
<li data-section-id="nqs1jv" data-start="876" data-end="952">Learn why honest questions can strengthen, rather than weaken, your faith.</li>
<li data-section-id="tikfn1" data-start="953" data-end="1051">Understand how David models lament by bringing his pain directly to God instead of pulling away.</li>
<li data-section-id="xndrri" data-start="1052" data-end="1140">Be encouraged to remember God's past faithfulness when waiting for His future answers.</li>
<li data-section-id="uvc6u7" data-start="1141" data-end="1222">Explore why trust is a decision rooted in God's character&mdash;not simply a feeling.</li>
<li data-section-id="1wnony3" data-start="1223" data-end="1327">Find hope in knowing that God continues to speak through His Word, even when His answers seem delayed.</li>
</ul>
Join the Conversation
Have you ever experienced a season when God felt silent? What has helped you continue trusting Him while you wait for His answers? We'd love to hear your story in the comments.
Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: <a href="https://forums.crosswalk.com/">https://forums.crosswalk.com/</a>
Do you want to listen ad-free?
When you join&nbsp;Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors&mdash;resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.crosswalk.com/subscribe/?utm_source=subscribe_page&amp;utm_medium=YDBV&amp;utm_campaign=YDBV_PLUS">Sign Up Today!</a>
<hr>
Full Transcript Below:
Holding on When God Feels Silent
By: Sarah Frazer
Bible Reading:
&ldquo;How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?&nbsp; How long will you hide your face from me?&rdquo; - Psalm 13:1 (ESV)
I looked at my journal from the beginning of the year. Six months had passed, and I realized several of my prayer requests remained unanswered. Several family members had been going through trials and needed help, but as I glanced at the list, God had not yet answered them. The phrase from Psalm 13 entered my mind: "How long, O God?"
Instantly, I felt guilty for having questioned God. But then I remembered that Psalm 13 was in the Bible, and if the psalmist was allowed to say those words, so was I. As I have begun to pray more, I have found it to stretch my faith. Mostly because many of my &ldquo;big&rdquo; prayers have yet to be answered. God&rsquo;s silence is often very hard.&nbsp;
Have you ever just wondered: Is God listening?&nbsp;
Faith doesn&rsquo;t ignore silence&mdash;it learns how to speak honestly to God within it.
In Psalm 13, we see the language of lament. David, the author, asks multiple &ldquo;how long&rdquo; questions here. Suffering, hardship, and sorrow were regular parts of David&rsquo;s life, especially as he ran from the murdering king Saul. Including those questions here, David reminds us that God gives us permission to feel this longing. To feel the tension of having faith but feeling distant from God. Faith includes honest questions.
&ldquo;How long, O Lord?&rdquo; - Psalm 13:1
David continues in Psalm 13, bringing his pain to God. He doesn&rsquo;t withdraw, but turns toward God. The whole of Psalm 13 is a prayer to God. We might shy away from being honest or be too hesitant to express our frustration with the unanswered prayers, but David helps us remember that God is big enough to handle all of our requests and questions.&nbsp;
David asks for light, help, and intervention. Just because God hasn&rsquo;t answered a prayer or feels silent doesn&rsquo;t mean we stop praying. In faith, we continue to come to God and talk to Him. In the midst of his questions and doubts, David says, &ldquo;But I trust&hellip;&rdquo; (Psalm 13:5). The circumstances haven&rsquo;t changed, but David&rsquo;s focus has. Trust is a decision, not a feeling. David is honest about his feelings, but then holds on to the truth of God&rsquo;s character.&nbsp;
The rest of the psalm, the last verse especially, ends with a declaration of praise. It is a future praise - one that has yet to happen, but David says he knows God will answer! How? Because David has focused on two things. David says in Psalm 13:3, &ldquo;O Lord, my God&hellip;&rdquo; David has a personal relationship with God. One that was tested over time. God had already proven Himself faithful to David in the past, because in Psalm 13:6 Davida says,&ldquo; he has dealt bountifully with me.&rdquo;&nbsp;
A faith that holds on, in the midst of silence and doubts, focuses on these two things: a personal relationship with God and God&rsquo;s past actions. Don&rsquo;t think that this quiet season is a reflection of God&rsquo;s love for you. God loved us first (1 John 4:19). You can question God and still trust him. In fact, Psalm 13 reminds us that God welcomes our questions. Silence is never the end of the story. Keep holding on!&nbsp;
If you&rsquo;re in a season where God feels quiet, I walk slowly through Psalm 13 on my podcast,&nbsp;<a href="https://sarahefrazer.com/podcast/">Psalms to Help You Sleep</a>, helping you turn your questions into prayer. Listening to God&rsquo;s word can be a soothing balm to our weary souls. If prayer feels like too much, start with just a simple: &ldquo;God, I want to trust you, but it's hard.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Intersecting Faith &amp; Life:
God&rsquo;s silence seems harsh, doesn&rsquo;t it? One thing I need to remember, and I hope to encourage you to remember as well, is that ultimately God is never silent. Yes, our hearts feel as if God isn't speaking to us or answering our prayers. The truth we need is that God is always speaking, through His word.&nbsp;
 &nbsp;The Bible is always available to us, and it is the light, the help, and the guidance we need in times of great hardship. In the midst of any situation, God&rsquo;s word, the Bible, can provide hope. God welcomes you, even your questions. The silence is not the end of the story. As you go to God, no matter how you feel, answer these questions honestly before him. Start here:
Where does God feel silent right now?
What honest prayer needs to be spoken?
Further Reading:
Lamentations 3:22-23
Psalm 55:22
Philippians 4:6-7
1 Peter 5:7
Exodus 16:18-21

Holding on When God Feels Silent

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/3378f20f-e32d-4549-8114-b48d01406ec3/transcript

What to Do When You're Anxious

In 1 playlist(s)

The Crosswalk Devotional

Social links

Follow podcast

Recent clips