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There is a particular kind of discouragement that comes not from giving up, but from pressing on without being able to see any evidence that it is working. You have been praying, trusting, waiting — and the silence stretches on, unmarked by any visible sign that God is moving. Others seem to be moving forward while you are still standing in the same place, wondering if you missed something, if you heard wrong, if He is even listening. Tonight's episode meets us honestly in that hard place and points us back to a promise that does not depend on what we can see. God's word, like rain sent to water the earth, will not return empty. It will accomplish exactly what He intended — on a timeline and in a manner that may be entirely invisible to us right now, but is no less certain for being hidden. The waiting is not wasted. The silence is not abandonment. And the God who made the promise has never once failed to keep it. Interested in creating something new with us!? Take Our Newsletter Survey! Tonight's Scripture "So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty." — Isaiah 55:11 Ponder This Tonight Unanswered prayer is not unheard prayer. God's silence is not the same as His absence or His indifference. He hears every word, and His purposes are being worked out even when we cannot perceive any movement at all. God has a far greater perspective on our lives than we do. What looks like delay from where we stand may be preparation, protection, or positioning from where He stands. His plans are not behind — they are simply above our current view. Waiting has a purpose beyond the thing we are waiting for. The season of hoping in the Lord builds something in us — a deepened trust, a strengthened faith, a resilience — that could not have been formed any other way. The waiting itself is part of the gift. Reflection & Encouragement If progress has felt invisible lately — if you have grown weary of watching for something that hasn't arrived — let tonight be a moment to shift your gaze from what you don't yet see to what you already know. You know that God is faithful. You know that His word does not return empty. You know that He who promised is still keeping that promise, right now, in the hidden places where you cannot yet look. Rest in what you know. He has not forgotten, and He will not fail. Want More? If tonight's prayer encouraged your heart, there's more waiting for you. Subscribe to the LifeAudio newsletter at LifeAudio.com for devotional prayers, reflections, and faith-filled content delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe, share, and invite someone you love to listen tonight. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Wherever you are today, this biblical meditation, narrated by Jennifer Clark, offers a quiet space to pause and reconnect with God. Think back to some times when God has answered your prayers in unexpected ways. What do you need to trust Him for today? Abide is a Christian meditation app that helps you experience peace and grow in your relationship with Christ through Scripture, prayer, and reflection. Try Abide free for 30 days and explore our premium, ad-free meditations here: https://abide.com/peace Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

James 4:2–3 reminds us of a simple but often overlooked truth: sometimes we don’t experience what God offers because we don’t ask for it. In seasons of stress, responsibility, and духов pressure, it’s easy to rely on our own strength instead of turning to God for the grace we desperately need. Yet His grace isn’t limited—it’s available, sufficient, and meant to sustain us daily. Highlights We often miss out because we don’t ask God for what we need God’s grace is available daily—but requires dependence Stress can tempt us to rely on control instead of surrender Right motives matter when bringing requests to God God meets us in weakness, not in self-sufficiency Prayer is the pathway to experiencing sustaining grace His strength becomes evident when we reach our limits Have an idea for our newsletter? We want to hear from you! Take our survey below: Take Our Survey! Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Diligently Asking for God’s Sustaining Grace By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading:“…You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions” (James 4:2-3, ESV). When we are taking steps in obedience to God, the resistance to moving forward grows stronger, and it feels like we are treading through mud just to take a step. My husband, Paul, and I have been experiencing this since we started leading a new ministry at our church, while juggling all the rest of our responsibilities, caring for our boys, and our own individual lives.  Even though it’s exhausting and sometimes discouraging when things feel so chaotic and stressful, I must remind my heart that our God is stronger and will use whatever seems to be standing against us (especially our own sinful flesh!) to grow and deepen our faith and sanctify us. But this doesn’t mean it isn’t painful or that I am quick to learn how to depend on Him!Personally, I am working on resting in the new mercies of today and being quick to repent and ask for forgiveness. I feel like I have failed a lot in my behavior towards Paul and my boys these last few weeks. I don’t want to blame it on hormones and lack of sleep (although I know this adds fuel to the fire, so to speak). Because God’s grace is available to me. But am I asking for it diligently? Probably not as much as I should.If His grace is truly sufficient (and it is), do I live like I’m dependent upon it daily and praying wi

Please visit https://www.biblestudyheadquarters.com/ for more tools and resources to help you grow in faith.  You can also become a regular supporter of this podcast on the website. . If you enjoy the show and want to buy John a coffee, please click here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/johnstange . The "Desire Jesus One Year Devotional" can be found here:  https://amzn.to/41v1DKh . To email John Stange directly, please send your message to [email protected]. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Pride is one of those sins that is almost impossible to see in ourselves — and that is precisely what makes it so dangerous. It doesn't announce itself. It doesn't feel like destruction in the making. It simply feels like confidence, like self-sufficiency, like the quiet conviction that we have things handled. And then, almost without warning, Proverbs 16:18 proves itself true again: pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. None of us is immune. The temptation to trust in our own abilities, to place ourselves at the center of our own story, to grasp for control that was never ours to hold — these are not struggles reserved for the obviously arrogant. They are the deeply human tendencies of every heart that has not been fully surrendered to God. The antidote is not self-improvement or trying harder to be humble. It is grace — the kind that only comes when we get low enough before God to admit that we cannot do this without Him. Jesus Himself, who had every reason to grasp for glory, emptied Himself and became a servant, humbling Himself to the point of death on a cross. That is the pattern we are invited to follow. Not because humility is easy, but because it is the only posture that keeps us close to the God who gives grace to the humble and resists the proud. Interested in creating something new with us!? Take Our Newsletter Survey! Today's Bible Verse "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." — Proverbs 16:18, ESV Ponder Today Pride rarely feels like pride from the inside — it often disguises itself as confidence or self-sufficiency, which is why regularly inviting God to search our hearts is so essential. The destruction that follows pride is not always dramatic — sometimes it is a slow drift away from God's best for us, a subtle straying from the path of righteousness and humility. Humility is not a personality trait we manufacture on our own — it is a gift from God, accessed through surrender, and sustained by His grace working in us day by day. Jesus, who had every reason to grasp for glory, chose the path of radical humility — His example is both our model and our motivation for laying down self-centeredness and pride. We all have blind spots, and pride is one of the most common — inviting trusted brothers and sisters in Christ to speak into our lives is one of the wisest safeguards against its subtle pull. Today's Prayer Heavenly Father, I repent for my self-reliance and pride. I realize that I cannot walk through life without Your help and Your grace, and I confess how quickly I am tempted to trust in my own abilities rather than in You. I ask for Your beautiful gift of humility to penetrate my heart. I lay down my self-centeredness and selfishness, and by Your grace, clothe myself in the humility that comes only from You. Search my heart and reveal any blind spots where pride has taken root without my realizing it. May You be glorified in all that I say and do. In Jesus' name, Amen. Enjoy Today's Prayer? If this episode encouraged you, we'd love to stay connected! Subscribe to the LifeAudio newsletter at LifeAudio.com for daily prayers, devotionals, and faith-filled content delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss an episode — subscribe and share with someone who needs encouragement today. If you like this podcast, be sure to check out our sister podcast, Your Nightly Prayer - an evening Christian prayer podcast to help you end your day in conversation with God. <a href="https://www.lifeaudio

Please visit https://www.biblestudyheadquarters.com/ for more tools and resources to help you grow in faith.  You can also become a regular supporter of this podcast on the website. . If you enjoy the show and want to buy John a coffee, please click here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/johnstange . The "Desire Jesus One Year Devotional" can be found here:  https://amzn.to/41v1DKh . To email John Stange directly, please send your message to [email protected]. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Welcome to the first ever bonus episode of the Confessions podcast! I'm trying something new, and I'm excited to hear what you think. On this special episode, you’re going to hear me on the other side of the mic—instead of interviewing someone, I'm being interviewed. The interviewer? My good friend Christy Osborne, host of the Love Life Sober podcast. In fact, this is actually taken from an episode of her podcast that we did recently, but I loved it so much that I wanted to share it with you. (By the way, go subscribe to her podcast here. You won't regret it!)   Christy and I met a couple years ago when we were both invited into a community of sobriety writers. Since then, we’ve met every month for encouragement, advice, accountability, and friendship. Over time, it became clear that Christy and I are very aligned in what we believe about recovery, sobriety, and ultimately, Jesus.  In the end, we are both passionate that the goal of recovery can't just be sobriety. Instead, the goal has to be Jesus. When that happens, you get both sobriety and the most flourishing and fulfilled life—both now and in eternity.  In this conversation, you’ll hear us wrestle through that idea together. You’ll also hear me tell my story, but in a slightly different way and context. Finally, you'll get a peek into Christy’s heart, her ministry, and the work she’s doing through her online community. So while this may feel a little different, I think it’s going to be incredibly valuable.Oh, and you'll hear us both talk about something called the Aligned Conference. We are really excited about it! This September, you can join both of us on the Eastern shores of Like Michigan as we do a deep dive into Gospel-centered recovery with some of our closest friends. It's going to be a great time! Just go to alignedconference.org and get your tickets before they sell out. See you there! Join Christy's Love Life Sober communityOrder Christy’s book, Love Life SoberConnect on Instagram: @lovelifesoberwithchristyGet addiction recovery resources and help: veritasrecovery.orgFollow me: @jonseidlOrder my new book, Confessions of a Christian AlcoholicLooking for a one-stop recovery resource? Learn more about the Tyndale Life Recovery Bible here.Support the Show: https://www.jonseidl.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

*Get a MASTERS IN APOLOGETICS or SCIENCE AND RELIGION at BIOLA (https://bit.ly/3LdNqKf) *USE Discount Code [smdcertdisc] for 25% off the BIOLA APOLOGETICS CERTIFICATE program (https://bit.ly/3AzfPFM) *See our fully online UNDERGRAD DEGREE in Bible, Theology, and Apologetics: (https://bit.ly/448STKK) FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Twitter: https://x.com/Sean_McDowell TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sean_mcdowell?lang=en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanmcdowell/ Website: https://seanmcdowell.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today’s Bible Verse: “And Jacob noticed that Laban’s attitude toward him was not what it had been.” — Genesis 31:2 Genesis 31:2 captures a subtle but important moment—Jacob senses a shift. Nothing dramatic is said, but something has changed. The relationship is no longer what it once was, and that awareness becomes part of God leading him into a new season. Have an idea for our newsletter? We want to hear from you! Take our survey below: Take Our Survey! “Want to listen without ads? Become a BibleStudyTools.com PLUS Member today: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/ Meet Today’s Host: Jennifer Slattery Discover more devotions with Jennifer at Your Daily Bible Verse on LifeAudio Jennifer Slattery is a national speaker and multi-published author, She’s passionate about helping believers live with bold faith, rooted in surrender to Christ’s purpose. Jennifer co-hosts both Your Daily Bible Verse and Faith Over Fear, encouraging listeners to step into their God-given identity. Her teachings blend Scripture with personal insight to help others embrace God’s power over fear and move forward with confidence. Learn more at JenniferSlatteryLivesOutLoud.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Guest Lindsay Goff Viducich shares about her beautiful new book, The Amazing Brain Club — and it will completely change the way you see your kids.LINKS:Buy a copy of The Amazing Brain ClubFollow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms The Amazing Brain Club with Lindsay Goff Viducich Whether your child has a "file cabinet" brain or a "confetti" brain, Lindsay reminds us that God didn't make a mistake when he wired your child the way he did. "Our voices as adults will become their inner voice — it will become how they see themselves." Reference: Ephesians 2:10 Prayer: Father, help my children to know that you perfectly created them. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Israel, the Next Generation, and You Dr. Susan Michael with Former Congresswoman and Dean of Regent University Michele Bachman Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week, take a walk down memory lane from our October 17, 2024 episode where John gets played by his own dog and ponders a replacement for smart phones. Meanwhile, Jonnie learns about pandas who fake pregnancy and how Abe Lincoln got body-shamed by an 11-year old girl.  Plus, a conversation about forgiveness and grace as a habitual act. Today's episode is NOT sponsored by Moving Walkways at the Airport: "We make you feel like you're in a factory that makes lazy people."   FOLLOW Jonnie W.: https://jonniew.com FOLLOW John Driver: https://johndriver.com LISTEN, SUBSCRIBE, SEND MESSAGE, OR SUPPORT at http://talkaboutthatpodcast.com WATCH/SUBSCRIBE on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwjExy_jWIdNvGd28XgF2Dg Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode Summary: Whether you’re battling chronic stress, emotional overload, burnout, or simply the pressures of everyday life, today we’re diving deep into Overcoming Stress with Scripture and Science. We’ll explore what stress does to your brain and body, how to recognize when it’s taking a toll, and—most importantly—God’s proven blueprint for peace, renewal, and rest. If you’ve been craving practical tools rooted in neuroscience and anchored in biblical truth, this episode will speak directly to your heart.   Today’s episode is especially timely because April is Stress Awareness Month. And if there is one thing I’ve consistently seen in 30+ years as a neuropsychologist, it’s this: stress is universal, but suffering under it doesn’t have to be.   Quotables from the episode: In recognition of stress awareness month, I want to remind you that stress doesn’t simply come from “big problems.” Science shows that your brain can interpret noise, clutter, constant notifications, unresolved emotions, lack of sleep, and even chronic busyness the same way it interprets danger. Chronic stress literally shrinks the brain regions involved in emotional regulation and clarity. But the good news? They can also be strengthened—God built neuroplasticity into your biology. Stress is not a spiritual failure. It’s a signal—an invitation—to lean into God’s design for restoration. God doesn’t offer stress management tips—He offers Himself. Peace isn’t a principle. Peace is a person. God created your brain and body with built-in “calm switches." This isn’t just spiritual—it’s neurological. Meditation strengthens the very brain networks stress weakens. “When your mind stays on Him, your brain rewires toward peace.” Replace Fear Thoughts with Scripture-Based Truth. Science calls this cognitive reframing. Scripture calls it taking thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5). Neuroscience shows that short pauses throughout the day reduce cumulative stress load. Scripture calls this Selah—a holy pause. Stress may be a reality of life, but peace is the promise of God. Don’t just become aware of stress. Become aware of God—right in the middle of it.   Scripture References: Psalm 94:19 “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” Exodus 33:14 “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Isaiah 26:3 “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you.” Proverbs 12:25 “Anxiety in a person’s heart weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad.” Nahum 1:7 “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.”   Recommended Resources:  Free Stress-Response Personality Assessment Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms <a href="https://amzn.to/3twWn

In an era of digital convenience and "on-demand" spirituality, have we lost something vital by staying home? Join Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ben Mathew as they explore the "Embodied Leg" of the mental health stool. This episode dives into the "Deaths of Despair" phenomenon and how the simple act of being physically present in a local church community serves as a powerful buffer against anxiety and isolation. We’re moving beyond abstract beliefs and looking at the tangible, physical habits that ground us when the world feels overwhelming. In this episode, we discuss: The "Blue Laws" Connection: How the loss of a shared day of rest contributed to a rise in "deaths of despair." Digital vs. Embodied Faith: Why watching a sermon at 1.5x speed can't replace the "friction" and beauty of being with real people. The Power of Ritual: How the physical acts of communion, singing, and gathering provide "symbolic handles" to navigate life’s challenges. The Church as a Physical Manifestation: Why the local church is the essential "body" we need to inhabit for true human flourishing. Building Grit through Presence: Why showing up when you don't feel like it is exactly what builds spiritual and emotional resilience. Whether you're struggling with a sense of isolation or looking for a deeper way to engage with your faith, this conversation reminds us that we were made to be present. Get early access and a bonus with a Patreon membership. Subscribe to our YouTube channel To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #ThinkingChristian #EmbodiedFaith #ChurchMatters #MentalHealth #Community #ChristianPodcast #HumanFlourishing #FaithAndWellness Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Jesus is sitting at the Father's right hand, which shows: Jesus's sacrifice is finished Jesus is a high priest forever in the heavenly temple, not the man-made temple The OT law is becoming obsolete God's promises in the New Covenant are better than the old promises Jews and Gentiles alike partake in the promises to the house of Judah There are so many other things P40 does! Check it out: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries  Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries  Contact - [email protected]  Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-6493869  Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk  Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop  YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee  https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Butch Wilmore, retired NASA astronaut, US Navy test pilot, and one of only two people to have flown five different spacecraft, boarded Boeing's Starliner for what was supposed to be an eight-day test mission to the International Space Station. It lasted 286 days. His new book, Stuck: An Astronaut's Hope Through the Unexpected, tells the full story, and he opens up here about what he knew before the mission even launched, the thruster failures that changed everything, and how the contentment Paul wrote about from a prison cell turned out to be exactly what he needed 250 miles above Earth. Space exploration, unshakable faith, and the hope that holds when you cannot come home: Butch walks through the moment he realized they likely would not return on Starliner, why he privately told his wife and daughters a month before NASA made the official call, and what it looks like to trust God when your eight-day mission becomes nine and a half months. He also shares why he believes science and faith are not in conflict, what the Aurora Borealis from space reveals about God's protection of our planet, and why after circling Earth 7,424 times, he is more convinced than ever that this world was made by design. Highlights Why Butch told Boeing executives before launch that the thrusters and valves were his biggest concern, and how that proved exactly right The moment he realized mid-docking that they likely would not return on Starliner, and why he kept it to himself at first What Philippians 4 contentment actually looks like when you are stuck in space with no return date Seeing the Aurora Borealis from orbit and why it reflects God's deliberate protection of Earth Why he believes the creator of science cannot be in conflict with science, and how Satan has deceived people into thinking otherwise What launch, reentry, and all three landing types feel like, and why he compares the Dragon capsule to a Volkswagen Beetle His friendship with Artemis 2 pilot Victor Glover and why neither of them will shy away from their faith when asked Resources / Links / CTA Butch Wilmore: https://www.butchwilmore.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astro_butch Book: Stuck in Space: An Astronaut's Hope Through the Unexpected   Take Our Newsletter Survey! Follow, share, and explore more of Crosswalk Talk Follow, share, and subscribe for more faith-driven conversations on Lifeaudio Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Jesús dijo: “Vengan a mí todos los que están cansados y cargados, y yo los haré descansar.” Eso incluye las cargas financieras. Hoy Dios te pide orden y Él te dará sabiduría y confianza. Paso a paso. Día a día. Porque la libertad financiera también es parte de Su voluntad. La deuda no define tu valor, ni tu futuro. Con Dios, la esclavitud no es el final y la obediencia abre el camino hacia la libertad. Escrito por Mercy Cosme CANAL EN TELEGRAM GRUPO EN WHATSAPP Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When was the last time someone told you a hard truth? Not the nice, comforting words you love to hear, but the kind that makes you pause, maybe even feel a little exposed. We live in a culture that celebrates comfort. We scroll feeds of people who only show their highlights, hang with friends who tell us what we want to hear. And honestly, that’s tempting. But here’s the reality: following Jesus isn’t about comfort. It’s about transformation. And transformation sometimes starts with a truth that stings. Don’t forget: You can also download our free devotional, “Mind, Body & Soul,” designed to help strengthen your walk with God through Scripture, prayer, and practical habits.  CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP Learn more about HEARTBEAT- https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

"When you can't give clear, concise communication, sometimes it's on purpose. It's because I don't want to be held accountable for what I say." - Justin Atherton Bestselling author and retired law enforcement veteran Justin Atherton returns to the March or Die Show to make the case that politeness is one of the most dangerous habits in modern leadership. Drawing on 20 years as a detective, SWAT trainer, and training lieutenant, and the statement-analysis training he used in interrogations. Justin walks Sean Kennard through the WAVE method from his book *How to Get to the Damn Point*: a framework for stripping the hedges, equivocations, and stop-action verbs out of your communication so the people who depend on you can actually trust your word. The conversation gets pointed: why "I'll try to be faithful" lands the way it does with a spouse, why your team can hear when you're protecting yourself instead of leading them, and the daughter story (and the seven-hour command staff meeting) that finally pushed Justin to write the book. Justin Atherton is a 20-year law enforcement veteran, detective, SWAT operator, and training lieutenant, turned leadership communication consultant, public speaker, and TED talk presenter. His book "How to Get to the Damn Point" is a #1 bestseller on Amazon.  Justin's Links:Get Justin's book: How To Get To The Damn Point: https://a.co/d/0aFvrvx7 Justin's site: https://justinwatherton.com Follow Justin: https://www.instagram.com/justinwatherton  If this episode hits home, hit the like button, drop a comment with the phrase you're going to stop saying this week, and subscribe so you don't miss the next one. Hit Subscribe, share this episode with your community, and drop a comment on what landed hardest for you. Want more reinforcement? Subscribe to our newsletter, The Forward Edge, to go beyond the podcast and dig deeper into these topics and more: https://marchordie.substack.com! Join us daily for encouragement and biblical truth with the Mighty Oaks Daily Devotional, you can sign up for reminders: https://mightyoaksprograms.org/daily-devotional or text JOIN to (832) 333-8794 Follow March or Die:https://instagram.com/MarchOrDie https://Facebook.com/MarchOrDieShow https://TikTok.com/March_or_Die  Follow Jeremy:https://instagram.com/jeremystalnecker https://jeremystalnecker.com  Follow Sean:https://instagram.com/seantopgunkennard https://youtube.com/@SeanTopGunKennard Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Most Christians would say they know Jesus. But what if we’ve misunderstood who He really is? In this episode of The Walk: Faith in the Real World, Mark E. Moore—teaching pastor at Christ’s Church of the Valley and bestselling author of Core 52—challenges one of the most foundational assumptions in modern faith: not whether we believe in Jesus, but whether we actually understand Him. From his years as a New Testament professor to leading at one of the largest churches in the country, Mark brings clarity to a question that reshapes everything: Have we reduced Jesus to something smaller than who He really is? This conversation explores the tension between seeing Jesus as Savior versus recognizing Him as Messiah and King—and why that distinction changes how we live, lead, and follow Him today. Guest Bio Mark E. Moore is the teaching pastor at Christ’s Church of the Valley in Peoria, Arizona—one of the fastest-growing churches in the United States. He previously spent over 20 years as a New Testament professor at Ozark Christian College and is the bestselling author of Core 52. Mark is passionate about making Scripture accessible, clear, and transformative for everyday life. He and his wife, Barbara, live in Phoenix. Episode Highlights Are we missing the real Jesus?How modern Christianity can unintentionally reshape Jesus into our own image Savior vs. King: why it mattersWhat happens when we embrace Jesus as Savior but ignore His authority as Messiah Why “personal faith” might be incompleteRecovering the power of a shared, lived-out faith in community The danger of a customized JesusHow culture influences the way we interpret Scripture and identity What it actually means to follow Jesus todayMoving from comfort to surrender—and from belief to embodied faith Pull Quote “IF YOU SEE JESUS ONLY AS SAVIOR, YOU’LL WAIT FOR HEAVEN SOMEDAY—INSTEAD OF LIVING ETERNAL LIFE RIGHT NOW.” Helpful Links Mark E. Moore Books: https://www.markmoore.org/ Christ’s Church of the Valley: https://ccv.church <hr data-start="3

God likes to call us out of our comfort zone, but often we hesitate out of fear—we like the comfort and safety of the life we have known. But stepping out in faith is where true growth happens. Edward Graham, Chief Operating Officer at Samaritan’s Purse, shares what God has taught him in leadership, both in the military but also in ministry. Hear how you, too, can step out in faith and obedience to the Lord, in whatever He has for you. Resources:     •    Learn more about how you can get involved with Samaritan’s Purse domestically and internationally. https://www.samaritanspurse.org/our-ministry/nam/#volunteer-now https://www.samaritanspurse.org/our-ministry/dart/      •    Listen to “Suffering for Christ’s Sake” to hear stories of pastors who experienced intense persecution and how their faith sustained them.https://ontheground.samaritanspurse.org/podcast/suffering-for-christs-sake  Highlights: Edward shares stories from his time in the military, where he chose to trust the Lord and seek Him for wisdom. He reads a passage from James that he continually goes to when he needs to turn away from doubt and towards belief. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” – James 1:5-8, ESV Now more than ever, Samaritan’s Purse has an opportunity to love our neighbors that are hurting in the Middle East. Our staff stand ready, training and preparing so when famine comes or disaster hits and everyone else is running away, we can respond in Jesus’ Name. “God expects us—when He entrusts us with His widow’s mite or with His people—to take prudent risk, to go out and multiply in the Gospel.” – Edward Graham Edward talks about trials he has faced in his own life and how they shaped him and encouraged his walk with the Lord. The story in the Bible where Peter walks on water shows Edward that sometimes in life God is calling us to get out of the boat. Often in our Western culture, we strive for comfort and ease. But that is not what the life of a Christian looks like. “Let's get out of the boat. Let's be part of miracles. You’ve got to challenge yourself. You’ve got to put yourself out there sometimes, and maybe it's your church, maybe it's your family, maybe it's your job and career. Somewhere you're safe in the boat. What do you do to take that step and go walk on water and go be part of a miracle?” – Edward Graham None of what is going on in our world surprises God. Kristy and Edward remind listeners that in this world we will have trouble, but we can take heart because Jesus has overcome the world. Edward asks for prayer for our staff and volunteers serving amid disasters and conflicts across the globe and for new endeavors that the ministry is embarking on within its aviation and U.S. rebuild programs. If you’d like to keep up to date with more stories from On the Ground, please visit SamaritansPurse.org. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Jesus is not just "a way" to God... He is THE way! I love how my friend, Melissa Dougherty, weaves this important truth into her newest children's book because building this theological foundation is important for the children of the next generation to know. As an expecting mama, I am excited to talk about this topic and encourage adults out there on how to share the Gospel and build theological pillars in the lives of their children and the next generation in this episode. GET YOUR COPY OF THE FABRIC OF HOPE HERE: https://www.fabricofhopebook.com/ CHECK OUT MY FREE RESOURCES: https://kirbykelly.myflodesk.com/kirbykelly CHECK OUT MELISSA'S BOOK: https://a.co/d/035BqGAF For 10% off of Faithful Counseling, and to start your healing journey today, go to: https://www.faithfulcounseling.com/kirbykelly To sponsor a child in need alongside me with Compassion International, go to: https://www.compassion.com/kirbyisaboss Support the ministry!: https://kirby-kelly.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=5d23856d41ec3a0001234376 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Watching your child struggle and not knowing what they need? You're not alone. Whether your kid is two or twenty-two, there are seasons where you can tell something is off but you can't fix it, can't name it, and don't know how to pray about it. In this episode, Rachel explores how to pray for your kids when you don't know what to ask for, anchored in Psalm 139 and 1 John 5. She shares a personal story about her daughter Tris going through her keep boxes ahead of her fall wedding, and what those old school notes revealed about a slow, faithful answer to years of prayer. You'll discover: Why not knowing what your child needs doesn't disqualify you from praying for them What Psalm 139:13–16 says about how well God already knows your child The 1 John 5:14–15 prayer you can pray when you have no other words How God answers prayers we didn't even know how to pray correctly Rachel's honest reflection on praying through Tris's seasons and watching God form the answer over twenty-two years If you're praying for a kid you can't read, a season you can't decode, or a need you can't name, this episode is for you. God hears you. He's already at work on an answer you can't yet see. Resources Mentioned: 31 Prayers for a Mom's Heart — rachelwojo.com/shop Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever wondered if you’re truly following Jesus or just doing all the “right” things? In this conversation, I sit down with Natalia Drumm to talk about what discipleship really looks like in everyday life. Not performance. Not checking boxes. But actually walking with Jesus. We talk about why community alone isn’t enough, how to know if you’re growing spiritually, and what it means to surrender control to God, even when it’s hard. If you’ve been craving something deeper in your faith, this conversation will help you see what’s been missing… and how to take your next step. And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Key Takeaways: How Natalia started “Girlfriends in the Word” from a personal need Why many women feel disconnected even in church settings The difference between being a Christian and being a disciple Why reading Scripture matters more than relying on other resources The danger of “performative” faith in today’s culture What it really means to abide in Jesus How to identify who (or what) is discipling you The power of multi-generational relationships in spiritual growth Letting go of personal ambition to embrace God’s assignment What it looks like to “die to yourself” in everyday life What Discipleship Actually Looks Like Know Jesus through His Word You can’t follow someone you don’t know—Scripture reveals who He truly is. Abide, Don’t Perform Transformation comes from staying close to Jesus, not striving to impress Him. Be Discipled (Don’t Go Alone) You need people ahead of you who can guide and pour into your life. Disciple Others As you grow, turn around and help someone else follow Jesus too. Surrender Your Will Let Jesus be King—release control and trust His way over yours. Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.  It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.  If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith.   Connect with Natalia: Website: nataliadrumm.com Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/girlfriendsintheword  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliadrumm/  Podcast: Girlfriends in the Word    Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones    

Te invitamos a escuchar nuestro nuevo devocional, donde reflexionamos sobre un tema esencial en la vida cristiana: el carácter que glorifica a Dios. Acompáñanos mientras descubrimos cómo la valentía, gentileza, lealtad e integridad reflejan la gloria del Padre, y cómo el permanecer en Cristo Jesús (nuestra Vid verdadera) nos transforma para cumplir nuestro propósito eterno: Glorificar a Dios y disfrutar de Su presencia por siempre. Le pedimos a Dios que esta reflexión fortalezca tu Fe y te inspire a vivir con un carácter conforme su corazón. Presentado por Luciano Goicochea & Mercy Cosme CANAL EN TELEGRAM GRUPO EN WHATSAPP Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

About our guest Hugh Ross:Hugh holds a degree in physics from the University of British Columbia and a PhD in astronomy from the University of Toronto. After five years on the Caltech faculty, he transitioned to full-time ministry and still serves on the pastoral team at Christ Church Sierra Madre. His writings include journal and magazine articles, hundreds of blogs, and numerous books—Why the Universe Is the Way It Is, Improbable Planet, Designed to the Core and Rescuing Inerrancy, among others.Like Brad on Facebook: Click hereSubscribe to Brad's Youtube: Click hereFollow Brad on Twitter: Click hereFollow Brad on Instagram: Click hereBrad's TikTok: Click hereVisit Brad's Website: http://www.bradstine.com/Support Brad's ministry at Patreon.com/BradStineWelcome to the New America! Dubbed 'God's Comic' by the New Yorker, for 16-years, Brad Stine has been the comedic trailblazer of politically incorrect, Christian and Conservative comedy. His new show, 'Brad Stine Has Issues', covers cultural issues with his signature brand of comedic sarcasm and satire with insight that will be appreciated by everyone who loves laughter, liberty, and the freedom to tell the truth without fear. #PCFree #BradStineHasIssuesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Regan and Abby talk about the importance of preserving childhood innocence amidst social media and technology influences. They share personal stories, parenting insights, and practical tips for raising resilient, independent Christian children in today's digital age. Key Topics Impact of social media on childhood Parenting strategies for digital age Importance of unstructured play and boredom Balancing technology use and childhood innocence Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you heard of the term “unequally yoked” in relationships and marriage? So many of you have reached out asking, “Is it okay for a Christian to date or marry a non-Christian?” I’m breaking down exactly what the Bible says about being unequally yoked, and sharing real talk about how this applies to dating, marriage, and even business partnerships. I talk about why God’s commands aren’t about restricting us, but are there for our protection and blessing. If you’re already in a "mixed" marriage, I walk you through practical, biblical encouragement on how to live out your faith and how your actions—not just your words—can influence your spouse. You’ll also hear: The true definition of “unequally yoked” and why it matters for Christian singles and couples What to do if you’re a believer married to a non-believer Biblical advice on “missionary dating” and why it’s rarely a good idea How to use spiritual discernment (and even your common sense!) when making relationship choices My personal story of how my husband Shaun and I navigated differences in our spiritual walk Encouragement for the spouse who feels alone in their faith journey Whether you’re single, dating, married, or walking alongside a loved one in this situation, this episode will help you understand the importance of honoring God with your choices and trusting Him with your relationships. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Get the newly released audiobook for Tried and True: Marriage Advice from 12 Imperfect Biblical Couples! Follow Dana Che on the socials!  Instagram  Facebook  YouTube Like the show? Be sure to SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW the podcast! Then, give it a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and leave a great review! Support the show: https://danache.com/donations/support-the-show/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this powerful episode, Heather Creekmore introduces listeners to Tara, a real woman whose life has been radically transformed by putting God at the center of her struggle with body image and food. Tara shares her deeply personal journey—from coping with anxiety and depression in childhood, wrestling with perfectionism and body image in competitive gymnastics, battling addiction, and eventually, overcoming the religion of dieting. Through her story, Tara reveals how she mistook disordered eating for biblical discipline and how the message of grace, identity in Christ, and true freedom changed her life. Now serving as a coach with Compared to Who?, Tara’s experience offers both practical encouragement and spiritual insight for anyone wrestling with food, shame, or their own reflection. *this episode originally aired in 2022. Key Discussion Points Tara’s Early Struggles: The roots of her anxiety, perfectionism, and body shame in childhood and sports (06:45). The “Religion of Dieting”: How Tara’s disordered eating felt like spiritual discipline, and how cultural and Christian messages got tangled (01:02, 24:17). Shame & Identity: The dangerous cycle of striving for approval through appearance and learning how to shift identity from body image to Christ (32:17). Rock Bottom and Recovery: Tara’s experiences with addiction, motherhood, medical challenges, and finally surrendering control to God (14:13). The Turning Point: Discovering the “Compared to Who?” Bible plan and the concept of body image idolatry (03:14, 30:08). Freedom in Christ: The ongoing, un-glamorous, daily process of surrender, community, and living out new-found freedom (36:24, 38:09). Coaching & Community: The role of group coaching, supportive friendships, and honest sharing in breaking free from shame (35:31, 44:06). Resources & Next Steps Work with Tara or Heather: Interested in coaching or group programs? Visit improvebodyimage.com and click the “Work with Me” tab. Join the 40-Day Journey: A new group is starting this summer will take place in afternoons - so friends from around the world can join at a more convenient time. Memorable Quotes “I thought I was living in God’s will, stewarding my body for him… all along, I was believing a lie.” “Our biggest battle is not whether or not we can wear the jeans we wore when we were 25. There’s something much greater God is calling us to.” “Freedom isn’t ease or comfort. It’s daily surrender. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” Connect & Listen For more episodes, show notes, and support, visit Compared to Who? podcast homepage If today’s episode encouraged you to stop comparing and start living, share it with a friend and leave a review! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if the very thing that broke your heart… became the place where God revealed your calling? In this powerful and deeply moving conversation, Drs. Zach and Tim Clinton sit down with rising Christian music artist, Anne Wilson, to talk about faith, grief, identity, and purpose. Anne’s journey began in the midst of unimaginable loss. After the unexpected death of her brother in 2017, she found herself navigating deep sorrow, but also encountering God in a profound way. What started as a way to process her pain through worship became a calling that has now impacted millions around the world. From her breakout song My Jesus to her latest music and tours, Anne has continued to point people to hope in Christ, even in life’s darkest moments. In this conversation, Anne opens up about what it looked like to worship through grief, how her faith was tested and strengthened in the valley, and how she has stayed grounded in her identity despite rapid success and growing influence. We also dive into the challenges of comparison and identity in today’s culture, the importance of discerning God’s voice in the midst of opportunity, and what it means to be a light for Christ in both faith-based and secular spaces. Anne’s story is a powerful reminder that God often does His deepest work in our hardest seasons, and that He can turn our pain into purpose for His glory. If you’re walking through loss, wrestling with your identity, or wondering how God might use your story, this episode will meet you right where you are.   Links:Visit Anne’s Website: https://www.annewilsonofficial.com/See Anne in Concert during “The Stars Tour”: https://shop.annewilsonofficial.com/pages/tour-page?utm_campaign=nav&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=annewilsonofficial.comListen to Anne’s Music: https://www.annewilsonofficial.com/music/Navigating Grief? Find Clinically Excellent, Distinctively Christian Help, Hope, & Healing Today: https://christiancareconnect.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In today's episode: Jesus is the great High Priest who we confess sins to What the Bible says about confessing sins to people other than Jesus Jesus sacrificed Himself; Jesus died once for all Is the Eucharist (or communion) the physical manifestation of Jesus's body and blood? Hey! Don't leave before looking at other P40 stuff:   YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries  Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries  Contact - [email protected]  Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-6493869  Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk  Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop  YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee  https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today’s Bible Verse: “Joseph named his firstborn Manasseh and said, ‘It is because God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father’s household.’ The second son he named Ephraim and said, ‘It is because God has made me fruitful in the land of my suffering.’” — Genesis 41:51–52  Genesis 41:51–52 captures a turning point in Joseph’s story. After years of betrayal, loss, and hardship, God brings him into a place of restoration. The names of his sons tell the story—God helped him move beyond the pain of his past and brought fruitfulness out of a season marked by suffering. Interested in creating something new with us!? Take Our Newsletter Survey! “Want to listen without ads? Become a BibleStudyTools.com PLUS Member today: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/ MEET YOUR HOST: Chaka Heinze at https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ Chaka Heinze is a writer, speaker, and lover of the Bible. She is actively involved in her local church on the Prayer and Healing team and mentors young women seeking deeper relationships with God.After personally experiencing God's love and compassion following the loss of her eleven-year-old son, Landen, Chaka delights in testifying to others about God's unfathomable and transformative love that permeates even the most difficult circumstances.Chaka and her husband of twenty-six years have five children ranging from adult age to preschool. Trained as an attorney, she’s had the privilege of mitigating sibling disputes for twenty-plus years.Follow her on Chakaheinze.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We live in a world that celebrates the grand gesture, the viral moment, the headline-worthy achievement. And somewhere along the way, without fully realizing it, we begin to measure our own lives by those same standards — quietly wondering if what we are doing matters, if the small and ordinary faithfulness of our days is really enough. Tonight's episode says, gently and firmly, that it is. When Zerubbabel stood before the ruins of the Temple with little more than a plumb line in his hand, it looked like nothing. But God looked at that small beginning and rejoiced. Not because of what had been built yet, but because the work had begun. The water — all the life — would flow from exactly that one faithful, unglamorous starting point. Tonight's episode is an invitation to look again at what is already in your hands. The relationships, the small kindnesses, the ordinary moments of this particular spring evening — none of it is too small for God to use, and none of it is beneath His notice or delight. Interested in creating something new with us!? Take Our Newsletter Survey! Tonight's Scripture "Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin." — Zechariah 4:10, NLT Ponder This Tonight God rejoices in small beginnings. He is not waiting for your effort to reach a certain size or scale before He takes notice. He sees the plumb line in your hand right now and calls it meaningful. The most eternal work often happens in the most ordinary places. The coffee barista, the grocery clerk, the elderly neighbor who just wants someone to sit with them — these are not distractions from your calling. They may be the very heart of it. What keeps us from embracing small things is usually pride, not purpose. If we are honest, our discomfort with small roles often has less to do with wanting to do more for God and more to do with wanting to be seen doing it. That is worth sitting with tonight. Reflection & Encouragement Before you sleep tonight, take a slow look back over your day — not at what you accomplished or failed to accomplish, but at what was quietly alive in it. The extra minutes of golden evening light. A child's laughter. A moment of unexpected kindness given or received. God was in all of it. He placed gifts in your hands today that you may not have fully recognized as gifts. Don't let size or stature cause you to miss what is already significant. In His hands, nothing breathing is ever without purpose. Want More? If tonight's prayer encouraged your heart, there's more waiting for you. Subscribe to the LifeAudio newsletter at LifeAudio.com for devotional prayers, reflections, and faith-filled content delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe, share, and invite someone you love to listen tonight. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Billy Hallowell, journalist and host of a new CBN documentary, has spent years covering faith and the supernatural, but it wasn't until he started investigating firsthand accounts of angels and demons that his own skepticism was put to the test. Angels and Demons is the follow-up to his earlier film on miracles, and it goes beyond Hollywood sensationalism to bring in scientists, scholars, and Ivy League-educated experts who have changed their minds after coming face to face with evidence they could not explain away. The supernatural, spiritual warfare, and the stories skeptics cannot easily dismiss: Billy walks through the case of Bruce Van Natta, a man crushed under a semi-truck who claims to have seen angels and survived against all odds, and the chilling story of Julia, a Satan worshiper whose experiences convinced Columbia University professor and psychiatrist Dr. Richard Gallagher that possession is real. He also opens up about why he believes the supernatural is becoming one of the most powerful apologetics tools for reaching a generation that has had secularism pushed on them, and why after 27 years in media, he still believes the most important story anyone can tell is one that points people toward God. Highlights Why Angels and Demons started as a TV series and became a feature documentary The story of Bruce Van Natta, crushed under a semi-truck, who claims to have seen angels and lived How Dr. Richard Gallagher, an Ivy League-educated Columbia University psychiatrist, went from skeptic to believer The disturbing details of Julia, a Satan worshiper whose abilities shook even the most credentialed skeptics Why Billy believes supernatural evidence is becoming a compelling apologetics tool for reaching Gen Z Why Hollywood's portrayal of demons is both mockery and misdirection, and what Scripture actually says How Billy got his start in media at age 15 in the wake of the Columbine shooting and never looked back Resources / Links / CTA Billy Hallowell website: https://billyhallowell.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billyhallowell Angels & Demons: https://securegiving.cbn.com/films/investigating-the-supernatural/angels-demons Miracles: https://securegiving.cbn.com/films/investigating-the-supernatural-miracles   Take Our Newsletter Survey! Follow, share, and explore more of Crosswalk Talk Follow, share, and subscribe for more faith-driven conversations on Lifeaudio Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What happens when one of the most notorious mobsters in American history experiences a radical encounter with faith? In this gripping episode, Greg Laurie sits down with former Colombo crime family underboss Michael Franzese for an uncensored conversation about the Mafia, redemption, and the impossible power of second chances. Raised in the shadow of organized crime, Michael Franzese lived at the epicenter of the mob world—rubbing shoulders with legendary bosses, amassing wealth and notoriety, and ultimately landing on Fortune magazine’s list of the “50 Most Powerful Mafia Bosses.” But after years of violence, betrayal, and prison, his life took a dramatic turn: a solitary Bible in the darkest moments of his incarceration led him on an unexpected journey toward Jesus Christ. Explore: The making—and unmaking—of a mobster, from growing up with Sonny Franzese to becoming a “made man” in a secret Halloween ceremony. The high price of loyalty, the devastating costs of crime on family, and the shocking story of walking away from “the life”, despite deadly consequences. A raw account of hitting rock bottom in solitary confinement, wrestling with God, and discovering hope in Scripture that changed everything. The incredible redemption of unlikely figures, including Michael Franzese’s reconciliation with his own family, and how the power of prayer can reach anyone—even the hardest hearts You’ll also hear candid reflections on masculinity, fatherhood, and what it really means to be a “man’s man” in a broken world, plus why Hollywood both glamorizes and misrepresents the Mafia lifestyle. Whether you’re fascinated by organized crime, inspired by true stories of faith, or searching for hope for someone you love, this conversation will challenge what you thought possible—and encourage you to never stop believing in transformation. Subscribe for more unforgettable conversations that prove no one is beyond the reach of grace. CHAPTERS:00:00 The Mobster Who Became a Believer: Introduction02:11 Michael’s Early Memories of Mob Life07:00 Choosing the Mafia: Family, Loyalty, and Sacrifice10:21 Behind the Scenes: Realism in Mob Movies15:29 The Mafia Initiation: “Born Again” into Cosa Nostra17:45 Surviving When All Others Didn’t: Why Michael Lived20:15 Leaving the Life: Family Devastation and Hard Choices24:47 Betrayed by My Father: Facing Death in the Mob29:04 Solitary Confinement and a Bible: Breaking Point35:59 Proverbs 16:7—Finding Peace with Enemies in Prison41:21 Masculinity and Jesus: The Ultimate Man44:50 The Crisis of Fatherhood & Masculinity Today46:33 Camille’s Faith: The Strength Behind Michael48:32 Advice to Young Men Drawn to Crime53:09 Sonny Franzese’s Faith and Forgiveness54:41 No One Is Beyond the Reach of God56:20 Surprising Conversions: From Mobsters to Believers Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Wherever you are today, this biblical meditation, narrated by James Seawood, offers a quiet space to pause and reconnect with God. How does your garden grow? Meditate on Genesis 2:8-9. Abide is a Christian meditation app that helps you experience peace and grow in your relationship with Christ through Scripture, prayer, and reflection. Try Abide free for 30 days and explore our premium, ad-free meditations here: https://abide.com/peace Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

She didn't lead with her theology. She led with her ears. When we truly listened to our friends — their doubts, their questions, their view of the world — that gentleness can create an opening that no argument ever could.LINKS:Read with us in April! Download Growing in GentlenessConnect with Christie ThomasFollow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms A Prayer for Gentle Evangelism with Christie Thomas Peter didn't just tell us to be ready to share our hope. He said do it with gentleness and respect. The how matters just as much as the what.You can't argue someone into faith. But you might just love them there. "Do it with gentleness and respect." — 1 Peter 3:15Who in your life is waiting for you to listen before you speak? Reference: 1 Peter 3:14-16 Prayer: Jesus, You are the hope inside me! Please forgive me for the times I haven’t been ready to give a defense with gentleness and respect. Help me learn to speak clearly about the hope You’ve given me and please also help me to share it with others through gentleness. Give me the bold, compassionate love needed to point others to You. In Jesus’s name, amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When someone you love is in recovery, the pressure can feel overwhelming. You want to say and do the right thing, hoping to prevent a setback, yet beneath that is a quiet fear that you might make things worse. In this episode, Carol talks with Caroline Beidler, author of When You Love Someone in Recovery, about how to walk alongside someone without losing yourself, addressing the tension many families feel between wanting to help and fearing they might hurt. Caroline reframes a powerful truth: God never asked you to control someone else’s healing. He invites you to love faithfully, set wise boundaries, and trust Him with what you cannot control. If you’ve been carrying guilt or living with ongoing fear, this conversation brings clarity on support versus enabling—and the freedom to love without trying to control the outcome. Resource discussed: When You Love Someone in Recovery: A Hopeful Guide to Understanding Addiction by Caroline Beidler Connect with Caroline Beidler: On her website On Instagram On Facebook Follow her writing on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website  On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever felt like life didn’t turn out the way you expected—or on the timeline you hoped for? Maybe you’ve looked around and wondered if you’re somehow behind. In this week’s episode of The Love Offering Podcast, I sat down with author and poet Tanner Olson to talk about his book Getting Through What You are Going Through and what it looks like to walk through seasons of uncertainty, waiting, and even grief while still holding onto hope. Through his own story of infertility, waiting, and ultimately adoption, he reminds us that God is present—not just at the end of our story, but right in the middle of it. If you’re in a season that feels heavy or unclear, this conversation will gently encourage your heart. In this episode, we talk about: What to do when life feels off track How to trust God’s timing when it’s different than yours Why we shouldn’t just get through hard seasons—but go through them Finding hope in the small, everyday moments Friend, if you’re feeling behind today, I hope this reminds you—you’re not. God is still writing your story, and He hasn’t forgotten you. With love,Rachael Connect with Tanner Olson Instagram: @tannerolson Books: Getting Through What You’re Going Through, Walk a Little Slower, Continue, and more Ministry: Written to Speak Connect with Rachael Adams Website: rachaelkadams.com Instagram: @rachaeladamsauthor Books: Everyday Prayers for Love and A Little Goes a Long Way Support the Show: https://rachaelkadams.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Trusting God during conflict and injustice isn’t passive—it’s deeply intentional. In Genesis 26:19–22, Isaac faced repeated opposition as others claimed the wells he and his servants dug. Instead of fighting back, he chose to move forward in faith, trusting that God would provide space for him to flourish. His story reveals a powerful truth: God’s plans will prevail, even when others come against us. Highlights Isaac faced repeated conflict but chose trust over striving Not every battle requires a fight—some require faith and surrender God’s provision cannot be blocked by others’ actions Trusting God often means releasing control and resisting retaliation Scripture shows both times to act and times to be still God is faithful to restore, provide, and make room in His timing Even in injustice, God is working for our good and His glory Links & Resources:  Have an idea for our newsletter? We want to hear from you! Take our survey below: Take Our Survey! Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts!  Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Trusting God's Plans to Prevail When Others Come Against UsBy Jennifer Slattery Bible Reading:Isaac’s servants dug in the valley and discovered a well of fresh water there. But the herders of Gerar quarreled with those of Isaac and said, “The water is ours!” So he named the well Esek,  because they disputed with him. Then they dug another well, but they quarreled over that one also; so he named it Sitnah. He moved on from there and dug another well, and no one quarreled over it. He named it Rehoboth, saying, “Now the Lord has given us room and we will flourish in the land.” (Genesis 26:19-22, NIV). Have you ever had someone use your kindness and integrity against you? Or betray you in some way, and you wanted to fight back, but sensed God telling you to trust Him to rectify the situation?  For years, I watched my husband endure the painful effects of slander and parental alienation. He was married before me to a woman who was verbally and psychologically abusive. When they divorced, his ex told his children that he’d abandoned them and didn’t love them. Then, once he married me and he and I gave birth to our daughter, his ex told his kids that we were his “replacement family.”  While he diligently showed up for them and financially provided for them, that negative narrative became their reality. To say this devastated him would be a huge understatement. And the cruel injustice of

Author and artist Ruth Chou Simons joins Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer to share her journey of faith, from immigrating to the U.S. as a young girl to raising six boys while writing and creating art that points others to Christ. Ruth opens up about the struggles of striving for approval and how she discovered freedom in God’s grace.   Guest’s Links YouTube: @RuthChouSimonsFacebook: @ruthchousimons Instagram: @ruthchousimons Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4ohxdVK  ________________________  Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Jesus Calling Website TikTok   *Episode produced by Four Eyes Media* Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Please visit https://www.biblestudyheadquarters.com/ for more tools and resources to help you grow in faith.  You can also become a regular supporter of this podcast on the website. . If you enjoy the show and want to buy John a coffee, please click here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/johnstange . The "Desire Jesus One Year Devotional" can be found here:  https://amzn.to/41v1DKh . To email John Stange directly, please send your message to [email protected]. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you currently in that difficult and anxious space of waiting? Waiting for test results from the doctor. Waiting to hear if you got the job. Waiting for the acceptance letter, the answer to a prayer you’ve been carrying for months. Waiting can feel heavy. Our minds race. We imagine the worst. We wish we could just skip ahead to the outcome. But Scripture shows us a different way to wait. Don’t forget: You can also download our free devotional, “Mind, Body & Soul,” designed to help strengthen your walk with God through Scripture, prayer, and practical habits.  CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP Learn more about HEARTBEAT- https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

There is a particular kind of weariness that settles in when it seems like everything is fraying at once — the appliance that breaks, the relationship that strains, the body that doesn't bounce back the way it used to, the quiet grief of watching the things and people you love slowly change. It is the weariness of living in a world where nothing stays new forever, and where the evidence of decay shows up in ways both small and devastating. If you are feeling that weight today, Scripture does not ask you to pretend it isn't real. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 meets us honestly in the middle of that reality — yes, our outer selves are wasting away. But it does not stop there. Because for those who belong to Christ, deterioration is never the final word. Even as things fall apart on the outside, the Holy Spirit is quietly at work on the inside, renewing, transforming, and moving us steadily toward a glory that will far outweigh every present struggle. The collar fades, the flowers wilt, the body grows tired — but these are temporary things. And one day, the God who entered our world of disorder and decay will call forth His people from the grave, and that which had deteriorated will be made whole again, better than before. Until that day, we fix our gaze not on what is seen, but on what is eternal — the promises of God that can never fray, fade, or fall apart. Interested in creating something new with us!? Take Our Newsletter Survey! Today's Bible Verse "That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don't look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever." — 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, NLT Ponder Today Decay and deterioration are real — Scripture never asks us to deny the sadness of a world where everything and everyone is slowly wasting away, but it also never lets that be the final word. Even as our outer selves are diminishing, the Holy Spirit is actively renewing us from within — the two realities exist at the same time, and the inner work is the one that lasts forever. Our present troubles, however heavy they feel, are producing an eternal glory that will vastly outweigh them — the weight of our suffering is real, but it is not comparable to what is coming. Fixing our gaze on eternity is not escapism — it is the most grounding thing we can do, anchoring our hope to promises that can never break, fade, or fall apart. For those who belong to Christ, death is not the end of the story — one day, that which had decayed will be made whole again, better than it ever was before. Today's Prayer Lord, there are times when it seems as though everything around me and within me is falling apart. Despite the decay I see and feel, I trust that You are in control and that the fullness of the salvation You have promised is coming. Help me to develop an eternal gaze that sets my hope on what is secure, though unseen. Renew my strength whenever despair creeps in at the reminder of shattered dreams and gradual loss. My hope is in You alone. Keep transforming me until I resemble You. In Jesus' name, Amen. Enjoy Today's Prayer? If this episode encouraged you, we'd love to stay connected! Subscribe to the LifeAudio newsletter at LifeAudio.com for daily prayers, devotionals, and faith-filled content delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss a

Please visit https://www.biblestudyheadquarters.com/ for more tools and resources to help you grow in faith.  You can also become a regular supporter of this podcast on the website. . If you enjoy the show and want to buy John a coffee, please click here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/johnstange . The "Desire Jesus One Year Devotional" can be found here:  https://amzn.to/41v1DKh . To email John Stange directly, please send your message to [email protected]. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

You can listen to the "Chapter-A-Day Bible Study" via every major podcasting app.  I'm also including a link below that will take you directly to it. Listen Here:  https://cadbiblestudy.podbean.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever wanted a stronger prayer life? You already know the importance of prayer but you desire to grow in this area. In this light-hearted and fun conversation with author and Bible teacher Heather Dixon, she shares how she is growing in the discipline of prayer and how you can too. You will learn:• Practical steps to make prayer a daily part of your life• How to use the Lord's prayer to start your day with God• How daily prayer can drastically change your lifeResources Mentioned in this Podcast:Download Christina's Free 5-Day Prayer Guide to help you put into practice the powerful habit of prayer: https://www.subscribepage.com/prayerguideConnect with Christina Paterson! Go to her site, www.belovedwomen.org and study the Bible with her in the Beloved Women app available in the Apple and Google Play stores where she invites busy women to fill up on God’s love and truth through online Bible study, practical Christian living, and authentic womanhood. https://www.belovedwomen.org/join/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In a culture obsessed with "happiness hacks" and immediate emotional relief, what if our sadness isn't a glitch, but a proper response to reality? In this follow-up episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ben Mathew (Professor of Counselor Education at CIU) tackle the heart of the existential crisis. They move beyond the "social leg" of mental health to explore the "existential leg"—the shared process of meaning-making in a world that often feels like running into the wind. In this episode, we discuss: The Rationality of Sadness: Why feeling existential dread and deep frustration is a "proper response" to the systems and brokenness around us. The "Neurosurgeon" vs. the "Glass of Water": Identifying why we often rush to clinical experts when what we truly lack is a durable community "house" of support. Lament as Language: Following the example of Christ on the cross and the Psalmists to give a voice to our heartache without being "chastised" or "condemned." Anchoring Against Despair: How the local church acts as a "buttress of truth," helping us find a non-anxious presence even when our bank accounts are zero or life feels overwhelming. Shared Meaning: Why meaning is best solidified not in isolation, but within the "community of saints." Stop trying to shortcut the healing and join us for a conversation about sitting in the tension, voicing the lament, and finding the grace to keep running. Get early access and a bonus with a Patreon membership. Subscribe to our YouTube channel To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #ThinkingChristian #FaithAndMentalHealth #BiblicalLament #ExistentialDread #ChristianCommunity #MentalHealthMatters #GraceInTheStorm Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you want to feel better, lighter, and more energized… but don’t know where to start?Maybe you’ve tried to make changes before, but they felt overwhelming or hard to maintain. Or you’re simply feeling tired and need something gentle that actually works.In this episode, Bonnie shares a personal story from a recent moment that reminded her how small changes can create real, visible transformation over time—and why those little steps matter more than we think.You’ll discover how simple morning routines can support your physical health, emotional wellbeing, and your connection with God—helping you feel more refreshed and grounded each day.If you’ve been wanting to take better care of yourself without pressure or perfection, this episode will help you start small, feel encouraged, and experience real change.Key Takeaways:Why small changes can create meaningful, lasting transformationHow your morning routine shapes your energy, mood, and focusWhat science says about hydration, nourishment, and stress regulationWhy creating space to listen to God brings peace and clarityThree simple morning practices to help you feel better, lighter, and energizedBreath Prayer:Inhale: Speak, Lord…Exhale: I am listening…Scripture:“Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.”— 1 Samuel 3:9 "The Morning Routine That Will Help You Live to 100, According to Longevity Experts:https://www.realsimple.com/morning-routine-to-live-to-100-8759811   "Warm Water in the Morning: Is It Healthier?"→  https://www.uvahealth.com/healthy-balance/warm-water-healthier-myths-facts/ → Take Bonnie's Soul Care Courses: Breathe Joy with Jesus:Create Happy Wellness Rhythms to Cultivate Joy with God's PromisesRegister at https://thebonniegray.com/soulcareschool/ Breathe Rest with Jesus:A Loving Course to Create Wellness Rhythms of Peace with God’s Promises Register at https://thebonniegray.com/soulcareschool-breatherest/ Praying the Psalms for Wellness:A Lifegiving 8-Week Wellness Course to Release Stress, Renew Peace & Find Rest for Your HeartRegister at https://thebonniegray.com/soulcareschool-prayingpsalms/   → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your personal wellness assessment and learn which area of soul care

“You can be anything you want to be!” It’s the mantra of our age—a message pumped into children by movies, books, and even well-meaning parents. But is it true? Is it biblical? Or is there a deeper, more fulfilling truth that Christian parents should pursue with their kids? In this weighty and relatable episode, Catherine unpacks the ever-present cultural myth that our kids can become whoever—or whatever—they dream, simply with enough hard work and imagination. Drawing from a heartfelt conversation with a devoted fellow parent at the ballfield, Catherine dives into the pressures parents feel to support every whim and wish, regardless of reality, gifting, or God’s design. What Listeners Will Discover The distinction between cultural slogans and biblical truth—and why not every dream is planted by God. How the “follow your heart” advice is more Hallmark than Holy Scripture (04:43), and what happens when Christian parents simply echo the world’s encouragements. The story of Catherine’s baseball-loving young son, who declared, “God made me to play baseball,” and how it led Catherine to wrestle with what she should tell a child with a passionate, even possibly divinely inspired longing (06:57). A thoughtful review of the Christian film The Hill, which draws on the motif of David and Goliath but falls into the “prosperity gospel” trap, promising that faith alone guarantees earthly success (14:00). The real-life epilogue is more sobering—and more biblically honest. What it actually means to “do all things through Christ who gives me strength” (18:48), as Catherine carefully walks parents through the context of Philippians 4 and the secret of contentment, regardless of whether dreams come true. A practical, grace-filled response any Christian parent can use when their child dreams big—pointing them toward pursuing God’s purpose above personal ambition (22:49). Notable Moments “When my fourth child sat on my lap at the ripe age of six and told me he wants to be a Major League baseball player, he actually said, ‘Mom, God made me to play baseball.’ … I do know this: You can be whoever God created you to be, and whoever that is is amazing and awesome and it’s going to fulfill you more than anything else in life.” (23:28) As a powerful takeaway, Catherine urges parents to help their kids seek to become who God designed them to be—not just anyone or anything the world applauds—reminding listeners that “God’s plan is the best plan,” even when it diverges from childhood dreams or cultural scripts. Reflect & Respond How can you encourage your children to dream boldly, while also helping them discover and pursue God’s unique calling for their lives? What steps can you take to align your parenting with God’s larger story, even when it means letting go of your own or your child’s expectations? Tune in for real-life wisdom, biblical encouragement, and practical steps to parent with hope, faith, and purpose in a world full of crazy (and not always truthful) messages. Episode Links The Hill (2023) Rudy (1993) The Rookie (2002) Philippians 4 – Bible Gateway </ul