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  • Friday · 6 min

    The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Chris... - Thanking God for the Prayers He Answered Differently

    What should you do when God doesn’t answer your prayers the way you hoped? When a door closes, a relationship doesn’t work out, or a long-awaited opportunity never comes, it’s natural to feel disappointed and question God’s plan. Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us that God’s thoughts and ways are higher than ours. Even when we cannot understand why He says “no” or asks us to wait, He sees the bigger picture of our lives. Learning to trust God with unanswered prayers means surrendering our expectations, bringing our disappointment honestly to Him, and believing that His wisdom reaches beyond what we can see in the moment. Highlights Trust God when He says no: Understand why a closed door doesn’t necessarily mean God has abandoned you or forgotten your prayers. See unanswered prayers from a new perspective: Discover how God may be protecting you from a path you cannot yet see clearly. Surrender your expectations to God: Learn to release your grip on a specific outcome and trust His wisdom with your future. Find encouragement in Paul’s transformation: Explore how God turned Saul, a persecutor of Christians, into one of the early Church’s most influential apostles (Acts 9). Remember that God’s grace is sufficient: Reflect on 2 Corinthians 12:9 and the reminder that God’s power can work through weakness, even when He doesn’t remove a struggle. Practice gratitude during disappointment: Consider how thanking God for closed doors can help you grow in faith while you wait for clarity. Pray for a trusting heart: Ask God to change your heart and strengthen your faith, even if He doesn’t change your circumstances. Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org 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: Thanking God for the Prayers He Answered Differently By Hannah Benson Bible Reading: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my w

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  • Friday · 6 min

    Chapter-A-Day Audio Bible - Isaiah 49

    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 biblestudyheadquarters@gmail.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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  • Friday · 5 min

    Your Daily Prayer - A Prayer for Our Brothers and Sisters Facing Persecution

    Hundreds of millions of Christians around the world live with the risk of persecution and violence. According to Open Doors, that number reached a record 388 million this year, including 201 million women and girls and 110 million children under the age of 15. For believers living in places without persecution, those numbers can feel distant, and it is easy to become absorbed in the demands of our own lives, cities, and countries. Hebrews 13:3 calls us to remember the prisoners as if chained with them, and to remember those who are mistreated, since we ourselves are in the body also. First Corinthians 12:26 explains why: if one part suffers, every part suffers with it. We are one body in Christ, which means the suffering of a believer on the other side of the world belongs to all of us. We may not know their names or the details of what they face, but God does. This episode is an invitation to stand with them in prayer, asking God to uphold them with His presence, to guard their hearts and minds, to protect their families, and to give them exactly what they need, whether that is strength, healing, faith, or joy. It is also a prayer that God would keep reminding us to pray, and that we would have the strength to endure if persecution ever comes to us. Bible Verse “Remember the prisoners as if chained with them, those who are mistreated, since you yourselves are in the body also.” — Hebrews 13:3, NKJV Ponder Today We are one body in Christ. When one part suffers, every part suffers with it. The persecuted church is not a distant cause. It is family. Remembering is an act of obedience. Hebrews 13:3 asks us to remember those who are suffering as if we were chained with them. Prayer is one of the most direct ways to do that. God knows what we do not. We cannot know every believer facing persecution or all they endure, but God sees each one. We can trust Him to meet them where they are. Pray for specific needs. Strength for the weary, healing for the hurting, faith for the doubting, joy for the sorrowful, and protection for their families. More than anything, pray that they would receive more of Jesus. Ask God to keep reminding you. It is easy to forget when our own lives feel full. Asking Him to bring the persecuted church to mind, even in the middle of the night, is a faithful and practical prayer. A Prayer for You Today Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that because of Your Son, Jesus, we have not only a Heavenly Father but spiritual brothers and sisters. We do not know all of them or all they are going through, but You do. Today we pray for our brothers and sisters who are facing persecution. May they feel Your presence and Your hands upholding them. Guard their hearts and minds, bring them the peace that surpasses all understanding, and watch over their families. If they are weary, give them strength. If they are hurting, give them healing. If they are doubting, give them faith. If they are sorrowful, give them joy. Give them more of Yourself. And Father, remind us to pray for them, even if it means waking us in the night. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for S

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  • Friday · 3 min

    Daily Devotions with Pastor John - When the Lord stirs you up

    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 biblestudyheadquarters@gmail.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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  • Thursday · 31 min

    Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Ben... - Why Anxiety Feels So Powerful and How to Recognize Its Lies: Fear is a Liar pt1

    Episode Summary: Anxiety affects millions of people every day, yet many believers silently wonder if their fear, worry, or anxious thoughts somehow reflect a lack of faith. In this powerful episode, Dr. Michelle Bengtson explores the neuroscience of anxiety and the biblical truth that fear does not have to control your life. Drawing from both her personal journey and decades of experience as a clinical neuropsychologist, Dr. Bengtson explains what anxiety really is, why the brain's alarm system can become overactive, and how fear often disguises itself as perfectionism, control, people-pleasing, and overthinking. Most importantly, she reveals how God's Word provides a pathway to renew the mind, break anxiety's grip, and experience the lasting peace He promises. If you've ever felt trapped by fear, overwhelmed by worry, or exhausted by racing thoughts, this episode offers practical hope, scientific insight, and biblical encouragement to help you reclaim your peace and walk in freedom. Quotables from the episode: Anxiety is not a sign that you are a bad Christian. Anxiety is not proof that you do not love God enough. Anxiety rarely announces itself as anxiety at first. It often arrives disguised as concern, as responsibility, as vigilance, as perfectionism, as control, as over-functioning, as people pleasing, or as productivity. But beneath all of that is often fear. And fear is a liar. Anxiety may feel powerful, but it does not have to be permanent. Anxiety is loud, but it is not Lord. Fear is intense, but it is not truthful. And you are not powerless against it. Peace is not found in control. It is found in surrender to him. You do not have to be God in your own life. You do not have to know everything. You do not have to anticipate every possibility. And you do not have to solve every problem before you can rest. Your mind is not fixed. Your thought patterns can change. Your emotional responses can heal. Your habits can be retrained. But what we focus on grows. So when we keep rehearsing fear, we strengthen fear. But when we keep rehearsing truth, we strengthen trust. Your nervous system may need what your spirit already knows. Fear magnifies the problem. Truth magnifies the Lord. Scripture References: Psalm 56:3 “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” John 10:10 tells us, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that may have life and have it abundantly." Romans 12:2 tells us, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Psalm 34:4 says, "I sought the Lord and He answered me. He delivered me from all my fears." John 8:32 "Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free." Isaiah 41:10 says, "So do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Psalm 34:3 says, "O magnify the Lord with me. Let us exalt his name together." Psalm 118:6 says, "The Lord is with me." Psalm 46:1 says, "God is my refuge and strength and ever-present help in times of trouble." 2 Corinthians 12:9 "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Matthew 19:26 says, "With God, all things are possible." 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, "His grace is sufficient for me." Philippians 1:6 “he who began a good work in me will carry it on to completion.” Recommended Resources:

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  • Thursday · 40 min

    I Wish You Could Hear This - 6 Steps to Better Your Marriage (Part 2) - Episode 53

    We all want a happy, healthy marriage. But sometimes it's easier to see what our spouse needs to change than to recognize what we might need to work on ourselves. And when we're feeling hurt or frustrated, believing the best of our spouse isn't always our first instinct! In Part 2 of this conversation, Shaunti and Jeff continue exploring the six practical steps they've discovered through their research on highly happy marriages. They discuss why it's so important to recognize our spouse's good intentions (even when their actions don't quite hit the mark!), how our own insecurities can affect the way we treat each other, and why taking responsibility for our own actions can make such a difference. They also share some personal stories from their own marriage, fascinating insights about forgiveness, and what they've learned through their research on the power of kindness—including why we may not be nearly as kind as we think we are. The encouraging news? A better marriage doesn't require a perfect spouse—or a perfect you. Sometimes it starts with a willingness to look at things differently, extend a little more grace, and choose kindness even when it's difficult. Resources For Women Only by Shaunti Feldhahn The Surprising Secrets of Highly Happy Marriages by Shaunti Feldhahn The 30-Day Kindness Challenge — Learn more Invite Shaunti to Speak Would you like to explore having Shaunti speak at your next event? Whether you're planning a marriage event, women's gathering, retreat, or conference, we'd love to connect! Email speaking@shaunti.com or visit shaunti.com/speaking to learn more. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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  • Thursday · 51 min

    Thinking Christian: Bible, Theology, and Culture - Jonathan Leeman on the Church as Embassy | Faith & Politics #16

    Jonathan Leeman — president of 9Marks and author of Political Church: The Local Assembly as Embassy of Christ's Rule — joins James Spencer for the eleventh episode in the faith and politics series. Leeman uses "political" functionally rather than partisanly: all of life falls under the rule of Christ, and the local congregation is meant to exemplify what that rule looks like. His central image is the embassy. Soil is just dirt until an authority consecrates it as belonging somewhere — and when a congregation gathers in Christ's name, it becomes something like the temporary geography of his kingdom, holding a deputized authority to declare who belongs and what the gospel is. From there: why the Bible functions as a constitution rather than a legal code, and Leeman's distinction between straight line and jagged line issues — those where the path from text to political conclusion is direct, and the far larger set where Christians can reason faithfully and land in different places. He argues most of the trouble in churches comes from treating the second kind as the first. He closes on where political formation actually begins. Go deeper: Christians & Politics Thinking Christian is hosted by Dr. James Spencer, president of the D. L. Moody Center and author of Digital Discernment (InterVarsity Press). Each conversation reads the Bible as the final authority for life and faith, questioning the assumptions of our culture, even our Christian culture, so that we don't settle for a narrower vision than God's word offers. Unsettling convention. Cultivating conviction. Episodes, articles, and questions: thinkingchristian.org About James Spencer: thinkingchristian.org/james The Thinking Christian Framework: thinkingchristian.org/framework Order Digital Discernment: amazon.com Advertising and partnership inquiries: info@thinkingchristian.org Chapters: 00:00 9Marks and what it exists to do 01:33 Which church, and what "political" means 04:57 Philemon and resituating what's already there 08:43 Why an embassy 11:04 Consecrated soil and the geography of the kingdom 15:33 What church authority actually is 20:23 Delegated versus deputized 22:06 The scattered church as political threat 23:50 Telling governments their limits 28:03 The Bible as constitution, not case law 34:41 Sending people into political vocations 41:07 Wisdom from God to do justice 43:04 Straight line and jagged line issues 46:38 Where political formation begins Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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  • Thursday · 27 min

    The Bible Explained with Jenn Kokal - 2 Peter 3:1-13 - What Will Happen on the Day of the Lord?

    Listener Survey: Give your feedback about The Bible Explained Today in 2 Peter 3:1-13 we face the scoffers who ask "Where is the promise of His coming?" and learn why the Lord's delay is really His patience: Was early church making it up as they went because they didn't have the Bible yet? "The Lord is not slow concerning His promise... but He is patient with us, not wishing that anyone should perish." The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night, so we look at the parable of the ten virgins and what it means to be ready. How Revelation 20 and 21 help us think through the millennium, the final judgment, and the new heavens and new earth. Peter tells us to look forward to the day when God dwells with His people and wipes away every tear. Related Episodes: Genesis 1:6-8 - What Is the Firmament? 2 Peter 1:1-11 - You're Invited to the Wedding Feast! Click all the links for more cool stuff: Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com 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 Need help memorizing Scripture? Check out Verse in the Chorus: https://www.youtube.com/@VerseintheChrous 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.

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  • Thursday · 6 min

    Your Nightly Scripture - Trusting God While I Wait for Him to Move (Isaiah 64)

    Evening Scripture Isaiah, Chapter 64 Oh, that you would rend the heavens and come down, that the mountains would tremble before you! As when fire sets twigs ablaze and causes water to boil, come down to make your name known to your enemies and cause the nations to quake before you! For when you did awesome things that we did not expect, you came down, and the mountains trembled before you. Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him. You come to the help of those who gladly do right, who remember your ways. But when we continued to sin against them, you were angry. How then can we be saved? All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away. No one calls on your name or strives to lay hold of you; for you have hidden your face from us and have given us over to our sins. Yet you, LORD, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. Do not be angry beyond measure, LORD; do not remember our sins forever. Oh, look on us, we pray, for we are all your people. Your sacred cities have become a wasteland; even Zion is a wasteland, Jerusalem a desolation. Our holy and glorious temple, where our ancestors praised you, has been burned with fire, and all that we treasured lies in ruins. After all this, LORD, will you hold yourself back? Will you keep silent and punish us beyond measure? Evening Reflection Some of the hardest-fought seasons of our faith are marked by waiting. Waiting on God to move often looks like us being still before Him. It can feel like a time of stagnation. Which, if you’re like me, is entirely uncomfortable. When we’re asked to “wait,” it feels like a consequence. But when we unpack Scripture, we see that while waiting can happen for that reason, many times it’s to grow the faith and reverence of those who are being asked to wait. In Isaiah 64, we see a cry and a petition for the Lord to come down and make things right. He literally begs God for His aid. What began as complaining quickly turns to petition. His heart posture shifts from one of utter frustration to that of a reverent follower who wants what God wants for his people. In verses 8-9, Isaiah pens, “But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand. Be not so terribly angry, O Lord, and remember not iniquity forever. Behold, please look, we are all your people.” He writes here that he fully understands we do not deserve the Lord's grace and quick response, but we also serve a God who will meet us as He sees fit. What is it that you are waiting for — a fresh hope, complete joy, healing, or redemption? Whatever it is, you are not alone. All believers find themselves in this place on the journey with Jesus, and I pray we all remember the Holy Spirit is with us in the waiting. He is interceding for you when you have no more words to say; He will wash peace over you as you wait. Keep your eyes and heart fixed on the Lord. Trust Him in the waiting, knowing that He is with you. Evening Prayer Lord, Will you be tangibly present as I wait? Some days, it's hard to hold fast to what I know is true when it feels like you’re silent. I pray for fresh hope, new joy, and an assurance that the Holy Spirit is leading me. In areas where I’ve become complacent on this journey, would you shake me up? Remind me that your view is perfect, you know the perfect timing, and your plan will always be better than mine — even when it feels hard or painful. Please draw my heart near and wash me with your peace. In Jesus’ name, <

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  • Thursday · 7 min

    Your Nightly Prayer: Evening Prayers for Christian... - Loving Family Members Who Believe Differently

    Divisions seem sharper now than at any other point in recent memory, and they do not stop at the front door. Politics, faith, denomination, lifestyle, and plain old difference of opinion can open a gap between us and the people we are closest to. Family can be the hardest place to hold love and disagreement at the same time. Colossians 3:13-14 does not ask us to win. It asks us to bear with one another, to forgive as the Lord forgave us, and above all to put on love, which binds everything together in perfect unity. Love is meant to be the most important thing in the relationship, even when the disagreement is real and the conclusion a family member has reached seems baffling. That does not mean every disagreement must be debated. There are times to stay quiet, to listen, to let a comment pass. There are also times when truth is needed, when someone sincerely asks or when silence would seem to approve of something harmful. In those moments, Peter tells us to answer with gentleness and respect. Gentleness is not weakness. It is truth carried in a way that can actually be received. We can love someone without agreeing with every belief or decision. Kindness is not endorsement. It simply refuses to let a difference become a wall. And we can rest in this: conversion and transformation belong to God. No one has ever been argued into faith. Our responsibility is faithfulness, not control or victory. The rest belongs to the Holy Spirit. Tonight, bring the strained relationships to Him, and ask for a guard over your heart and your mouth. Ponder Tonight Disagreement does not have to lead to disassociation. Choosing to keep love at the center of a family relationship is a quiet, daily act of obedience. Wisdom often means discerning when to speak and when to stay silent. Listening first, and answering only when truth is needed or sincerely asked for, keeps us from turning conversations into contests. Loving someone is not the same as approving of every choice they make. We can offer respect and kindness without compromising what we believe. The work of changing hearts belongs to the Holy Spirit. Releasing the need to win frees us to simply be faithful. Tonight’s Scripture “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” — Colossians 3:13-14, NIV Your Evening Prayer Father in heaven, We know there are times when we let disagreement escalate into something it should not become. Be with us in those moments. Put a guard over our hearts and over our mouths. Give us the words You would have us speak, and let Your Holy Spirit show us when to remain silent. Help us love the people in our families well, including the ones who see the world differently than we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two c

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  • Thursday · 8 min

    Your Daily Bible Verse - How God Helps When You Feel Uncertain (Isaiah 41:10)

    Today's Bible Verse: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” — Isaiah 41:10 God's reassurance in Isaiah 41:10 reminds His people that His strength is greater than their fears and His presence remains steady through uncertain circumstances. Trusting God doesn't mean you'll always know what to do or that every challenge will disappear. It means you can depend on Him for wisdom, endurance, and peace while you navigate the unknown. When your plans change or the future feels unclear, remember that God is still with you, sustaining you when you feel weak and helping you move forward one step at a time. By bringing your worries to Him in prayer and remembering His promises, you can learn to respond to uncertainty with faith instead of fear. Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Meet Today’s Host: Reverend Jessica Van Roekel ️ Listen to more daily devotionals with Jessica at Your Daily Bible Verse on LifeAudio Rev. Jessica Van Roekel is a passionate Christian speaker, author, and worship pastor who shares how God brings beauty from brokenness. Her message centers on God’s power to rescue, restore, and renew, even after seasons of rejection or loss. She is the author of Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything, a guide to seeing God’s purpose in life’s disappointments. Jessica and her husband are raising a vibrant family, with two adult daughters, a college-aged son, and a high school daughter. You can explore her teachings, devotionals, and resources at WelcomeGrace.com. Let Scripture shape your heart today—begin with the Bible Verse of the Day on Biblestudytools.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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  • Thursday · 19 min

    Crosswalk Talk: Celebrity Christian Interviews - Do Not Lose Yourself in Your Cause When the Country Is Divided | Charles Esten

    Charles Esten grew up in Alexandria, Virginia, steeped in the history of the Revolution, and now plays the British antagonist Lord Balfour in Drummer Boy, the Angel Studios musical about America’s fight for independence. The film comes from the Smallbone brothers of for KING & COUNTRY, and Charles knew it was worth doing before he finished the script. He heard the songs first. The actor known for Outer Banks, Nashville, and Whose Line Is It Anyway? is also a singer-songwriter with nearly 200 Grand Ole Opry appearances and a Guinness World Record. Drummer Boy, a divided family, and the faith that outlasts any cause: Charles shares why he loves a story where two brothers on opposite sides of the war can both be right, why a villain who loses his humanity in the service of good things is more unsettling than a cartoon bad guy, and what the film says to a country that feels more divided than ever. He also talks about growing up the class joker, how his father’s love of country music led him to the Opry stage, and why his faith, built from his mother’s church and his father’s late-in-life conversion, is the foundation under a business full of rejection. Highlights How his friendship with director Ben Smallbone on two seasons of Homestead led to Drummer Boy Why he listened to the songs before reading the script and knew the film would be special Why Lord Balfour is a villain whose reasons are hard to dismiss, and how good ends do not justify wrong means The two brothers at the heart of the film, both with every right to their side, and the Cain and Abel echo he sees in it His message for the 250th anniversary: faith, family, and forgiveness can heal what divides us Growing up in Alexandria, Virginia, and studying at William and Mary surrounded by Revolutionary War history Why a childhood of making people laugh turned into acting, songwriting, and nearly 200 Grand Ole Opry performances The idea behind his Guinness World Record, 54 consecutive weeks of releasing an original single Resources / Links / CTA Charles Esten website: https://www.charlesesten.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlesesten Drummer Boy: from Angel Studios Homestead: streaming on Angel Studios Follow, share, and explore more of Crosswalk Talk Follow, share, and subscribe for more faith-driven conversations on Lifeaudio Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretat

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  • Thursday · 46 min

    Talk About That - Best Of 2026 | Movie Theaters, Magic Tricks, and Hardships

    John teaches us about the history of candy and ponders growing a skullet. Meanwhile, Jonnie has a senior moment at the movie theater and tries to find out why Betty Ford danced on a table at the White House Plus, a conversation about how difficulties and trials tend to deepen our relationships. Today's episode is NOT sponsored by The Stock Market: "Like a casino, but without the free drinks!" Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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  • Thursday · 30 min

    Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith - Courage in the Face of Darkness: Chris Edmonds & Caleb Altmeyer

    *This episode mentions abuse and may be triggering for some listeners.* This week, we hear from Chris Edmonds, who shares the story of his father, World War II hero Roddie Edmonds, who was honored with the Medal of Honor for saving hundreds of Jewish American soldiers in a Nazi POW camp. Next, we’ll hear from Caleb Altmeyer, founder of Helping Captives, who will tell us about a childhood friend’s tragic story, which eventually led him and his family into the fight against sex trafficking. Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned: Jesus Calling Podcast Jesus Calling Jesus Always Jesus Listens Past interview: Jochen Wurfl Upcoming interview: Giavani Cairo Chris Edmonds Roddie Edmonds Battle of the Bulge Stalag IX-A Isaiah 26:12 www.roddieedmonds.com No Surrender Caleb Altmeyer Helping Captives Union Gospel Mission Interview Quotes: “From the moment [Dad] surrendered to Christ as a teenager at Vestal United Methodist Church in South Knoxville, God’s Word became his marching orders. And I think that’s what gave him the moral clarity he needed in the worst conditions, because he really understood life from a biblical perspective, and it sealed his moral code to where he wanted to live by that clarity.” - Chris Edmonds “Dad saved his Jewish men because a Jewish man named Jesus had saved him, had redeemed his life, and redeemed him from his inhumanity to where he could actually be who God wanted him to be.” - Chris Edmonds “When you stop and think about it, that’s all God expects for us—to do what’s right for Him, for the Lord first, and then for others. If we do what’s right for the Lord, then we’re going to do what’s right for others.” - Chris Edmonds “Dad being saved in that camp and all of his boys getting out safe—that’s all the Lord’s doing. And then for it to be buried in the ashes of the Holocaust for seventy years before it ever comes to light, that’s all the Lord’s doing. And I think it’s for such a time as this, when we so desperately need to start treating people with the highest respect and honor that God calls us to.” - Chris Edmonds “When we esteem others better than ourselves, we take people to the place where God resides, for that unconditional love—regardless of who they are, regardless of what we think about them, regardless of how they think about us, we love them with the love of Christ. And that is a love that’s beyond this world, but it’s a love that we have to share through the power of Christ.” - Chris Edmonds “I shouldn’t be here. My family shouldn’t be he

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  • Thursday · 6 min

    The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Chris... - When God Calms You

    Through a powerful story about a painting called Peace in the Midst of the Storm and a personal experience of finding unexpected shelter during a rainstorm, this devotional explores how God brings peace in difficult seasons. Sometimes He changes our circumstances, and other times He calms our hearts through His presence while the storm continues. Jesus acknowledges in John 16:33 that we will face trouble in this world, but He also offers the lasting peace that comes from knowing He has overcome it. Discover how to trust God for protection, recognize His care in everyday moments, and find reassurance when you need peace the most. Highlights Understand what biblical peace really means: Learn why true peace is not the absence of hardship but the security of knowing God is with you through it. Find refuge in God during difficult seasons: Explore Psalm 46:1 and its reminder that God is always present to provide strength and help in times of trouble. Trust God when life feels chaotic: Discover how God can calm the storms around you or bring calm to your heart while you face them. Recognize God’s unexpected provision: Reflect on a personal story of finding shelter during a sudden rainstorm and seeing God’s care in an ordinary moment. Remember Jesus’ promise of peace: Find encouragement in John 16:33, where Jesus acknowledges life’s troubles while reminding us of His victory over the world. Turn to God when fear takes over: Consider how prayer and trust in His presence can help you face uncertainty without feeling alone. Reflect on songs about God’s peace and protection: Explore “Sometimes He Calms the Storm,” “A Secret Place,” and “Peace” as musical reminders of God’s comfort during life’s storms. Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture. UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org 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: When God Calms You By Alexis A. Goring Bible Reading: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” -

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  • Thursday · 1 min

    Latido - Naham, el consuelo que sana el almas

    Hay dolores que ningún consejo puede aliviar. En hebreo existe una palabra para ese tipo de consuelo: Naham. No es decir “todo estará bien”. Significa traer descanso al corazón, restaurar el alma y sanar desde lo más profundo. No es un consuelo superficial. Es la clase de paz que solo Dios puede dar, incluso en medio de la tormenta. Tal vez hoy necesitas ese Naham. Quizá nadie entiende lo que estás viviendo, pero Dios sí, y Él no solo consuela tu dolor; también restaura tu corazón. Y un corazón sostenido por Dios siempre encuentra fuerzas para seguir adelante. 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.

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  • Thursday · 5 min

    Chapter-A-Day Audio Bible - Isaiah 48

    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 biblestudyheadquarters@gmail.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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  • Thursday · 6 min

    Your Daily Prayer - A Prayer for the Anniversary of a Loved One's Death

    Grief does not follow a straight line. Some years feel like an eternity, and other moments feel as though no time has passed at all. There are seasons when healing seems to be happening, and then a single memory can bring a person to tears. For those who struggle with complex grief, the loss never fully lifts, and the sense that a piece of you went with the person you loved can stay for a very long time. The anniversary of a loved one’s death often brings all of it back at once: the pain of the final days, and also the love, strength, and joy of the person who is missed. Isaiah 25:8 speaks directly into that tension with a promise rooted in the character of God: He will swallow up death forever, and the Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces. Death has already been defeated, and one day it will be completely eradicated. Revelation 21:4 describes the new heaven and new earth, where there will be no more crying, pain, mourning, or death, and where the Lord Himself will welcome us with His love. Whether a loved one has been gone for a year or for decades, grief and hope can exist side by side. The anniversary can become a day to remember a life that mattered, to cherish the memories, and to hold tightly to the sure promise of reunion. You will see them again, and until then, the God who collects every tear is near. Bible Verse “He will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove his people’s disgrace from all the earth. The Lord has spoken.” — Isaiah 25:8, NIV Ponder Today Grief is not linear, and there is no deadline for it. Feeling better one day and undone the next is part of loving someone deeply. Anniversaries can reopen wounds, and that does not mean you have failed to heal. It is possible to carry both pain and gratitude on the same day. Remembering the hard final days and celebrating the life, love, and influence of the person you lost can happen together. Both are honest, and both honor them. Death has already been defeated. Isaiah 25:8 declares that God will swallow up death forever. The loss you feel is real, but it is not the final word. God sees and will wipe away every tear. He is not distant from your grief. Revelation 21:4 promises a day with no more crying, pain, or mourning, and until then He draws near to the brokenhearted. Reunion is a sure promise for those in Christ. Whether your loved one has been gone a year or decades, you can take heart. You will see them again, and that hope makes room for rejoicing even in the middle of sorrow. A Prayer for You Today Dear Jesus, I am approaching the anniversary of the death of my loved one. The pain is overwhelming at times, and even after all this time, I still miss them. Their smile, voice, and laughter fill my heart to the point that tears rise in my eyes. How I long to see them again, Lord. Please bring my soul peace as I navigate this difficult season. I will reflect on our wonderful memories and cherish the time we shared. Encourage my heart to remember that I will see my loved one again. You have defeated death, and one day all will be made right. Thank You for giving us this sure promise, Lord. In Your name, Amen. Want More? Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ Click to Listen to Signs of Life:

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  • Thursday · 1 min

    Heartbeat - Give Yourself Permission to Rest

    If you’re a parent, especially of young kids, it can be hard to take a moment for yourself without feeling guilty. There’s always another chore, another mess, or another thing that needs your attention. But rest isn’t laziness. Even Jesus stepped away from the crowds to be alone and pray. Taking time to rest, breathe, and reconnect with God doesn’t mean you love your family any less. It may actually help you love and serve them better. Takeaways from this episode: • Rest is not the same thing as laziness. • Jesus modeled the importance of stepping away and spending time with God. • You don’t have to earn the right to rest. • Taking care of yourself can help you care for others. • Give yourself permission to slow down and be renewed in God’s presence. The dishes can wait. The laundry can wait. Give yourself permission to rest and remember that God doesn’t need you to run on empty. 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.

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