Skip to content
Sign in
Artwork for LifeAudio
Religion & Spirituality

LifeAudio

Salem Web Network

Lifeaudio Podcast Network offers a diverse collection of faith-based podcasts from trusted pastors, authors, and ministry leaders.

Play
Open in
  • 869 episodes
  • Avg 20 min
  • English

Episodes 869

NewestOldestLongest
All20Unplayed20In progress0Played0
Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • September 14 · 25 min

    Compared to Who? Body Image for Christian Women - Overthinking, Obsessing, and the Real Reason You Can’t Stop Thinking About It

    You replay the conversation, reread the text 100 times, re-analyze the comment, Google the symptom, or fixate. The loop promises that if you think hard enough, you can prevent the bad outcome and finally feel safe. But Heather Creekmore explains that the real issue usually isn’t the topic of the thought. It’s the grip it has on your brain. Overthinking often reveals a deeper desire for control and safety, especially when life feels uncertain. In this episode: Why overthinking can feel productive, responsible, or even spiritual at 06:08 How body-image obsession can become an attempt to control one small part of life when everything else feels uncertain at 08:38 Why telling yourself to “stop thinking about it” usually doesn’t work at 12:10 What Martha’s story teaches about setting down the need to hold everything alone How to exchange a posture of control for a posture of trust Why obsessive thoughts grow stronger in isolation Five ways to interrupt the loop - and none of them sound like "just stop thinking about it." A super practical, physical practice for surrender you can start using today! Mentioned in this episode: The final 40-Day Journey starts Monday, September 14th. Join here. Replays are available for missed sessions or if you're learning about it after 9/14/2026. Heather Creekmore’s upcoming book, Did I Say the Right Thing? and a Million Other Micro Fears That Keep Christian Women Stuck, which she says launches in February and is available for preorder on Amazon. (Amazon affiliate link) Meditate on 1 Peter 5:7, casting anxieties on God because he cares for you. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 17 min

    Teach Us to Pray - How to Pray for Your Enemies

    How can we practically pray for our enemies when we’re hurt and it feels unfair. How can believers answer God’s call to pray for those that cure you when it comes more naturally to pay them back. In today’s episode, learn 5 important reminders to empower you to pray for your enemies and how to practically pray for them. Resources Mentions in This Podcast: Download Christina's Free 5 Day Prayer Guide to help you put into practice the powerful habit of prayer. Connect with Christina Paterson: https://www.belovedwomen.org Study the Bible with Christina and Beloved Women at https://www.belovedwomen.org/join Scriptures in the Podcast are from ESV. Episode Image Credit: Getty/lemono Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 40 min

    Timeless Wisdom with Dennis Prager - Your Children Don't Need Your Genes. They Need Your Values. | Dennis AMA

    In Monday's episode of Dennis AMA, Dennis Prager lets listeners set the agenda with questions pulled from October and November 2004, covering everything from faith and family to parenting, music, books, and the unexpected lessons of everyday life. Dennis discusses why Jewish evangelism largely disappeared after centuries of persecution and isolation, the relationship between Judaism and Christianity, and his vision for a Jewish Christian alliance. He also has a touching conversation with a young Christian school student who recites the Shema in Hebrew. The conversation turns to parenting as Dennis advises a father struggling with his son's school performance. He discusses grades, discipline, school choice, reading, and why children should not be defined solely by their academic achievements. Dennis also shares a remarkable story from a serious car accident in his youth, talks about his love of music and Bible translations, and gets an unexpected lesson in how to properly adjust car mirrors to eliminate blind spots. The episode concludes with a powerful reflection on family heritage, adoption, and what parents truly pass on to their children. For Dennis, values matter more than blood, and the legacy we leave our children is ultimately about what we teach them and how we influence the people they become. Follow on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/timeless-wisdom-with-dennis-prager/id1517302239 Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4SZEYeH4tuLr2FvG4ok1rl Learn more about Dennis Prager: https://pragertopia.com/ Follow Dennis on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DennisPrager Follow Dennis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedennisprager/ Follow Dennis on X: https://x.com/DennisPrager Learn more about the Salem Podcast Network: https://salempodcastnetwork.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 29 min

    The Bible Explained with Jenn Kokal - Esther 9:1-15 - The Jews in Susa Defend Their Lives and Win

    The Jews in Susa defend themselves against their enemies and ultimately emerge victorious. But what's behind this remarkable turn of events? The role of Mordecai, the king's new trusted advisor, and how his influence helped to turn the tide in favor of the Jews. Esther's request to Xerxes to extend the decree for another day for the Jews in Susa was a crucial factor in the outcome. The Jews refuse to take the plunder of the enemies they kill. How Esther parallels with the story of King Saul in 1 Samuel 15, where Saul's disobedience to God's instructions led to the rise of the Amalekites, who would later become a thorn in the side of the Israelites. If you want to support the Bible Explained: 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 - 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.

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 5 min

    Your Nightly Scripture - Entrusting My Work to the Lord (Psalm 127)

    Evening Scripture Psalm, Chapter 127 Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat — for he grants sleep to those he loves. Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court. Evening Reflection Watching endless DIY and cooking shows, it becomes clear that the quality of one’s work can be subjective. There are varying views and opinions on the creator’s skill and expertise. Colors, tastes, styles, workmanship, craft, and more are all up to personal and group evaluations. Even when we do our very best, it may not meet another’s standards or expectations, although we may have wholeheartedly and tirelessly labored and sweated over it. Still, no matter how much effort and time we put into it, or how long we work, it may not meet someone else’s expectations. Yet, we don’t have to be discouraged if we’re entrusting our work to the Lord, doing it unto Him, to the best of our ability. We know that it’s His approval that truly matters. Pleasing God is a higher calling than pleasing others, especially when we realize that their eyes may have varying values, viewpoints, ideas, and expectations, the kind that change over time. Yet God’s standards remain the same, constant, steady, not ever leaving us feeling insecure, wondering if we’ll meet His expectations. When we entrust our work to the Lord – unlike the uncertainties, ups-and-downs, and ever- changing plans that often come when working for men and women – we can trust His calm and stable guidance of our hands, ideas, and skills. We know that He leads us with His wisdom and knowledge so that we can lean on Him, rather than our own understanding. We trust Him to keep us on the right track with our work. Evening Prayer God, Thank You that I can come to You, asking for Your help and entrusting my work hourly, daily, and even minute-by-minute to You. Lead me each day, and throughout the night, too, in my labor to follow Your leading and to yield to Your purposes and plans for my work. Let the work of my hand glorify You in all that I do. 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/ Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 5 min

    Your Nightly Prayer: Evening Prayers for Christian... - Comfort When You Miss What Was

    There are losses that do not announce themselves as grief at first. The gradual realization that the life you had is no longer the life you have. The healthy body that once ran and danced, now struggling with stairs. The relationships that shaped you, now absent. The version of yourself that existed before pain or sickness or sorrow entered the picture, and the quiet, ongoing work of learning to live without what you used to take for granted. Grieving what once was is real and valid. It deserves to be named honestly rather than rushed past. Ecclesiastes does not rush past it either. The writer explores the full range of human experience without flinching, and lands on a truth that is both sobering and quietly freeing: there is a time for everything under the heavens. A time to weep and a time to laugh. A time to mourn and a time to dance. Not a promise that the mourning will be brief, but an acknowledgment that it belongs. That grief has its place alongside joy, and neither cancels the other out. God wastes nothing. That is not a platitude. It is a hard-won conviction that comes from living inside difficulty long enough to see His faithfulness working through what we never would have chosen. Our hardships do not always trace back to personal sin. Most often they are simply the weight of living in a broken world where things are not yet as they will be. And in the middle of that reality, we are given a choice: to point others toward Jesus in the midst of our pain, or to let the pain turn us inward. Not to perform happiness we do not feel, but to hold onto the truth that God can and will use all of it for His good purposes, if we allow Him to. He meets us in the grief. He sits with us in what we miss. And He is not finished with the story yet. Ponder Tonight Ecclesiastes names grief, mourning, and weeping as having their rightful time, which means rushing past loss or performing healing we have not yet experienced is not faithfulness. Honest grief, brought to God, is itself an act of trust. Hardship that comes from living in a broken world is not evidence of God's absence or punishment. It is the reality of a fallen creation that God entered Himself through Jesus, which means He knows what it is to suffer within it. The goal in our trials is not to perform the life of a perfect Christian but to point others toward Jesus from within our genuine experience. That kind of authenticity is often more powerful than any polished testimony. God can use us even when, and sometimes especially when, we are in the middle of missing what was. The unfinished and broken places in our stories are often where others find the most hope. Tonight's Scripture "A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance." — Ecclesiastes 3:4, NIV Your Evening Prayer Lord Jesus, We bring You the grief of what we miss. The healthy body. The people no longer here. The hope and trust that existed before pain entered the picture. We do not want to pretend we are fine when we are not. You already know. Even here, remind us that there is a time for everything, and that You can and will use this season for our good and Your glory, even when we cannot comprehend how. As we grieve, comfort us. Give us hope that what You are doing now is good, even when it does not feel good right now. We trust You with the unfinished and the painful. We love You, 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:

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 48 min

    Christian Parent, Crazy World - When a Giant Is Standing Between You and God’s Promise - Ep. 191

    At some point, every Christian parent finds themselves facing “giants” — immense obstacles and seemingly impossible circumstances that stand between them and God’s promises. How you respond in these moments determines whether you move forward into the life God intends, or let fear and discouragement hold you back. In this deeply personal and practical episode, Catherine invites listeners into her own challenging season—her husband’s unexpected job loss, a year of solo parenting, and a disastrous home renovation that threatened to derail everything. With remarkable honesty, Catherine unpacks the real struggles families encounter as they pursue God’s calling in the midst of overwhelming adversity. But this episode is more than a story of hardship. Catherine shares six powerful, actionable steps for any believer facing a giant—whether in their marriage, career, finances, health, or faith: Gain God’s Perspective: When circumstances look hopeless, seek to see your situation through God's eyes—not just the intimidating physical realities (08:01). Drawing inspiration from Elisha’s story in 2 Kings 6, Catherine encourages listeners to pray for spiritual vision that reveals God’s power at work beyond what’s visible. Keep Your Eyes on God, Not the Enemy: It’s tempting to focus on the size of your problems, but victory comes from fixing your gaze on the God who is bigger than any obstacle (13:10). Stories of Moses and Peter remind us that fear grows when we focus on the enemy, but faith grows when we focus on God. Find Your Fight Songs: Worship is a weapon. Catherine describes how building a playlist of battle songs, like "Greater is He" by Blanca, helped her replace fear with hope—even when nothing changed externally (18:09). She urges parents to let worship shape their outlook during trials. Gather Your Weapons: Know and wield the Word of God. Catherine describes creating lists of personalized scriptures to pray daily over her children, her family, and her battles. She emphasizes the importance of having these spiritual “weapons” ready before the fight comes (22:41). Partner in Prayer: Giants don’t fall through solo efforts—find others to pray with and for you. Whether it’s a spouse, small group, or prayer team, uniting faith with others shifts the battle (27:08). Speak to Your Giant—Prophesy Its Future: Refuse to agree with the enemy’s narrative. Catherine recounts how publicly rejecting the enemy’s threats and speaking agreement with God’s promises led to unexpected breakthroughs—in her bathroom remodel, in her home sale, and in her family’s future (31:05). She clarifies: this isn’t “name it, claim it” theology, but the biblical principle of aligning your words and faith with God's revealed plan rather than fear. By sharing her vulnerability, setbacks, and ultimate victories, Catherine both comforts and challenges parents: your fight with giants is part of God’s story for you. This episode provides not only encouragement, but also a spiritual toolkit you can use immediately—so you can keep moving toward God’s promises, no matter how daunting the battle seems. Resources and Further Support Free scripture resources and faith-building tools available at Catherine’s website Blanca "Greater Is He" For any parent standing at their own “Red Sea,” this episode equips you to see beyond your current circumstances, lean into practical faith, and trust the God who is always greater than your giant. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.c

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 6 min

    Your Daily Bible Verse - When Hidden Sin Derails the Journey (Joshua 7:13)

    Today's Bible Verse: "Sanctify yourselves for tomorrow; for thus says the Lord, God of Israel, “There are devoted things among you, O Israel. You will be unable to stand before your enemies until you take away the devoted things from among you.” — Joshua 7:13 How can hidden sin affect your relationship with God and your spiritual journey? Joshua 7:13 shows that sin can create barriers between God's people and the victory He has called them to pursue. This passage reminds us that spiritual growth requires honesty, repentance, and obedience as we allow God to reveal what needs to be surrendered and removed from our lives. Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Want to listen without ads? Become a BibleStudyTools.com PLUS Member today: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/ Looking for a peaceful way to end your day? Listen to "Your Nightly Scripture" to end your day with God's word MEET YOUR HOST: Dr. Kyle Norman at https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ The Reverend Dr. Kyle Norman is the Rector of St. Paul’s Cathedral, located in Kamloops BC, Canada. He holds a doctorate in Spiritual formation and is a sought-after writer, speaker, and retreat leader. His writing can be found at Christianity.com, crosswalk.com, ibelieve.com, Renovare Canada, and many others. Rev. Norman has 20 years of pastoral experience, and his ministry focuses on helping people overcome times of spiritual discouragement. Find more from Rev. Norman at revkylenorman.ca Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 16 min

    Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast - The Science of Beauty: How Your Surroundings Can Renew Your Spirit #228

    Have you ever noticed how your surroundings can change the way you feel? Friend, beauty isn’t just decoration. The things we see around us can affect how we feel and even influence the rhythms and habits we create. This week, Bonnie is kicking off a new "Science + Scripture of Wellness Series" on Breathe, exploring one question: What does science tell us about how God designed us, and how does Scripture help us live it? In this episode, Bonnie shares a recent personal story that made her look at beauty—and the way she cares for her own environment—in a whole new way. You’ll discover how small cues of beauty can invite you to slow down, create healthier rhythms, and notice more of the beauty God has already placed around you. In This Episode — Why your surroundings can affect how you feel and behave — How visual cues can support healthier daily rhythms — Why beauty doesn’t have to be frivolous or selfish — What Jesus’ words teach us about beauty and God’s care — One simple way to bring more beauty into your everyday space — How to connect beauty with a soul care rhythm like prayer, journaling, nourishing meals, or rest Breath Prayer: Inhale: You make my life beautiful… Exhale: You make everything beautiful in your time Scripture: “He has made everything beautiful in its time.” Ecclesiastes 3:11 “Consider how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.” — Matthew 6:28–29 → Read Whispers of Rest: 40 Days to Revitalize Your Soul with God's Love, by Bonnie: https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd → Join Bonnie on Instagram @thebonniegray → Eucalyptus Shower Steamers for instant calm at Bonnie's Soul Care Store Watch YouTube Devotionals: https://youtube.com/thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 24 min

    How to Study the Bible - Bible Study Made Simple - Discerning God's Will Starts with Knowing What You Really Want

    If you're facing a decision right now, or wondering where God is in the middle of a season you didn't plan for, this series is going to meet you right where you are. Over the next four weeks, we're talking about discerning God's will and wayfinding to the good life, and it comes straight out of what I have personally been walking through as we've been discerning a major next step in my own life. Download the free four-week study guide on Discerning God's Will at NicoleUnice.com/decisions But before we get into decisions and direction, we have to start somewhere that might feel a little unexpected. We have to start with desire. I know that word can feel uncomfortable, especially if you've grown up in the church hearing that desires are dangerous or selfish. But the Bible tells a very different story. Psalm 37:4 says God will give you the desires of your heart. Jesus Himself asks people over and over again, "What do you want?" And in John chapter 7, standing up at a Jewish festival in a loud voice that would have stopped everyone around Him, Jesus says, "Anyone who is thirsty may come to me." He is addressing a longing. He is meeting a desire. He is saying, if there is something in you that is unsatisfied, come to me. So what do you actually want? Most of us are working from surface-level desires. I want that promotion. I want out of this pain. I want more money, more peace, more security. And those things are real. But underneath them is usually something deeper and truer. The desire for security. For love. For freedom from fear. For purpose. For a life that actually matters. And those deeper desires? Those are holy. Those are God-given. Those are actually reflecting the image of God in you. We also look at what God promises about the good life, because here's something Jesus says that a lot of us have missed: the kingdom of God is not just heaven someday. In Luke 17:21, He says the kingdom of God is already among you. And Romans 14:17 tells us what that kingdom actually looks and feels like: goodness, peace, joy, and power in the Holy Spirit. That is what's available to you right now, not just one day, here on earth. So this week, I want to give you one brave invitation: ask yourself what you really want. And then ask again, what is the desire under that desire? Be honest with God. Be courageous. Even if you've never talked to God before, start there. Because that's exactly where the discernment journey begins. Reflection Questions What do you want right now, in this season of your life? What is the desire underneath that desire? If you could experience goodness, peace, joy, and power in your everyday life, would that be what you want? Where do you sense God might be inviting you to trust Him with your deepest longings? Want More? Download the free four-week Discernment study guide at NicoleUnice.com/decisions — follow along with the series and use it as a tool for talking to God about your next step Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 33 min

    The Happy Home Podcast with Arlene Pellicane - What My 19-Year-Old Learned Growing Up Without Social Media with Noelle Pellicane

    Arlene's children were not allowed to have social media, play video games, or have personal phones or tablets until their senior year of high school. What did the kids think about this??? Noelle (the middle child of three) is here to represent the kids! Was she left out of friend groups at school because she wasn't on social media? Did she struggle with anxiety as a result? Noelle addresses common concerns parents raise, including whether kids need phones to stay connected with friends, whether delaying phone access affects academic performance, and whether it leaves children unprepared once they leave home. She describes how her parents explained their reasoning rather than simply withholding technology, and how that shaped the boundaries she set for herself once she did get a phone. Noelle also discusses her current use of AI as an engineering student at Oral Roberts University, and how her faith shapes how she spends her time. Arlene's new book, The Great Tech Reset: Reclaiming Real Life for Christian Families is available for FREE while supplies last. Request your copy at TechResetBook.com and begin your do-over with screen time. 02:19 — Noelle introduces herself: senior year at Oral Roberts University, mechanical engineering 03:15 — What she actually did as a kid without video games, tablets, or cable 05:21 — Addressing the myth that kids need phones to stay connected with friends 09:05 — The "time pit" and what she avoided seeing online — comparison, body image, bad news 12:33 — Phone use in the classroom and its effect on attention span 16:04 — Why she didn't "go crazy" once she finally got a phone senior year 18:11 — Her deliberate process for delaying social media after getting a phone 22:47 — How going without a phone gave her more freedom, not less 29:19 — Balancing being a "tech optimist" and AI enthusiast with caution about addictive technology More Resources from Arlene Pellicane: Get Arlene's new book, The Great Tech Reset: Reclaiming Real Life for Christian Families (free while supplies last!) Check out Noelle's art on Instagram SUBSCRIBE to Arlene's newsletter "What I'm Learning This Week" and get the checklist, 7 Warning Signs of Screen Overuse. Check out Arlene's other BOOKS including Parents Rising, Screen Kids, and Making Marriage Easier. Follow Arlene on Instagram and/or Facebook Watch the podcast on Arlene's YouTube Channel How did Arlene's kids adapt to not having phones, video games or social media? Watch the free video, Screen Kids: In Their Own Words. Have a question for Arlene to address on the podcast? Want to invite Arlene to speak to your group? Email speaking@arlenepellicane.com Not sure about a smartphone for your child? Check out the Gabb Wireless phone for kids and teens (use the promo code ARLENE) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 5 min

    Everyday Prayers with Million Praying Moms - A Prayer for Faithfulness

    The Hebrew word for faithfulness, emunah, means firmness, steadiness, staying the course even when it's hard. New episode by Tara L. Cole on what it looks like to practice that kind of faithfulness with our kids, one small commitment at a time. LINKS:Freebie: Drive Time Conversations Fruit of the Spirit Download How to Pray God's Word for Your ChildrenFollow Everyday Prayers @millionprayingmomsGet today's devotion and prayer in written form to keep for future use!Support the ministry with your $5 monthly gift through Patreon. A Prayer for Faithfulness by Tara L. ColeReference: Psalm 26:3Prayer: Father, may our children be captivated by your steadfast love and walk in faithfulness.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.

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 7 min

    The Crosswalk Devotional: A Daily Devotional Chris... - What Are You Taking for Granted?

    It’s easy to take everyday blessings for granted until they’re suddenly gone. Our health, family, homes, abilities, relationships, and simple comforts can become so familiar that we stop noticing them. But seasons of loss or difficulty can remind us just how much we have and challenge us to live with greater gratitude for God’s goodness. Zechariah’s story in Luke 1 offers a powerful reminder about doubt, prayer, and learning to recognize God’s blessings. After years of waiting for a child, Zechariah struggled to believe God’s promise when the answer finally came, and his temporary silence gave him time to reflect. We don’t have to wait for something to be taken away before we appreciate it. By focusing on God’s generosity and choosing gratitude each day, we can become more aware of His blessings and trust His power and promises even when we don’t understand how He will work. Highlights: Why we often recognize the value of everyday blessings only after losing them What Zechariah’s story teaches us about doubt and trusting God’s promises Learning to appreciate health, family, relationships, and daily provisions Why gratitude can change our perspective during difficult circumstances How to recognize areas where doubt may be keeping you from trusting God Practical questions for identifying blessings you may be taking for granted Encouragement to praise God and give thanks for His goodness today Want more encouragement throughout your week? Subscribe to The Good Word, LifeAudio’s free weekly newsletter. Sign up at LifeAudio.com/thegoodword Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: What Are You Taking for Granted? By: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading: “Zechariah asked the angel, ‘How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.’ The angel said to him, ‘I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their appointed time.’” – Luke 1:18-20, NIV I lost my voice for about one week after a severe cold. It was awkward and humbling having to communicate only through writing during that time. I had to type in chat during online meetings when everyone else was talking, and they had to wait for me since typing is much slower than talking. I had to write notes to family members and hold them up, or try to gesture or pantomime what I wanted to say. The experience taught me not to take my voice for granted. It’s amazing how quickly we realize the value of something only after it’s suddenly taken away. We go through life using our senses, our health, and our daily comforts without a second thought, assuming they will always be there. A similar thing ha

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 42 min

    Unhurried Living | Helping Christians Rest Deeper ... - From Information to Transformation: Rethinking How We Teach

    Most of us have experienced teaching that gives us a lot to think about, but doesn’t necessarily change much how we live. In this conversation about spiritual formation and Christian leadership, Alan and Gem explore why transformation rarely comes through information alone. Through their years leading retreats, workshops, and the PACE leadership cohort at Unhurried Living, they have discovered that growth often happens in quieter ways. It unfolds as people learn to listen to God, reflect on their lives, and share honestly with others. In this episode, they talk about the rhythms that help learning move from the mind into the soul. These include practices like solitude and silence, offering teaching in smaller portions, creating meaningful interaction, allowing a spacious schedule, and paying attention to the dynamics within a group. If you lead retreats, facilitate small groups, serve in ministry, or simply desire a deeper life with God, this conversation offers insight into how thoughtful learning environments can support lasting spiritual growth. You may discover that the way we gather and learn together matters more than we often realize. ______________________________________ Connect with Gem on Instagram and learn more on the Unhurried Living website and her new book, Hold That Thought: Sorting Through the Voices in Our Heads Learn about PACE: Certificate in Leadership and Soul Care Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 4 min

    Chapter-A-Day Audio Bible - Song of Solomon 1

    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.

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 7 min

    Your Daily Prayer - A Prayer to Be Patient with Your Progress

    1 Corinthians 13 is most often read at weddings, held up as the standard for the love we give away to another person. And it is all of that. But it is also something else — a love letter from God to us, intended to encourage the kind of self-compassion that most believers rarely extend to themselves. Every time the word "love" appears in this chapter, it translates from the Greek agape — the highest, most unconditional love that requires no relation, no condition, and no achievement. It is the love God has for His creation, including you. When First Corinthians 13:4 says love is patient, it does not only mean patient with a spouse, a difficult coworker, or a frustrating situation. It means giving yourself grace and permission to be exactly where you are. Patient with your own growth. Patient with your own pace. The same verse adds that love does not envy — which means negatively comparing your own progress to someone else's is not a loving act, including when you direct it toward yourself. And love does not boast and is not proud, which invites a searching question: is the impatience with your own progress rooted in a desire for recognition, or a need to feel superior to others? Can you choose instead to be patient with everything you have endured, changed, and overcome, whether or not your journey has been fast, visible, or impressive by anyone else's measure? The qualities of agape love practiced toward yourself are not self-indulgence. They are what make us increasingly capable of giving that same love to others. Bible Verse "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud." — 1 Corinthians 13:4, NIV Ponder Today Love is patient — including with yourself. The same grace and patience that agape love extends toward others is meant to be extended toward your own growth, pace, and progress. Harsh self-criticism is not humility. It is the absence of love. Love does not envy — and that includes comparing your progress to others'. Negatively measuring your pace against someone else's is not loving, not motivating, and not from God. Agape love allows you to live the life most suited to who you uniquely are. Impatience with your progress is worth examining honestly. Is it rooted in genuine desire to grow, or in a need for recognition, applause, or superiority over others? The question itself is an act of self-awareness that love invites. Self-compassion is not self-indulgence — it is what makes love for others sustainable. As you learn to extend agape love toward yourself, you grow in your capacity to give it away. The two are directly connected. First Corinthians 13 is a love letter from God to you. Read it as a personal word from the One whose love for you requires no achievement, no condition, and no further progress before it is fully given. You are lovable right now, exactly as you are. A Prayer for You Today God, I catch myself trying to do so many things at once that I start to behave in ways that are less than loving — to myself and, as a result, to others. Please pull me back into Your agape love. Teach me through Your love chapter how to see myself as enough, and how to believe that I am unconditionally lovable. Wash me of the pressure and anxiety I cause myself by feeling like I should be more accomplished or further along than I am. Speak to me that this life of mine is Yours, and that You love me right here and right now. Fill me with self-compassion so that I can practice the kind of love that reflects You to others. Thank You for loving me just as I am. In Jesus' name, Amen. Want More? Sig

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 52 min

    Dwell On These Things - "Hannah Prays for a Son" - 1 Samuel 1:1-2:11

    The book of 1 Samuel begins during an important transition in Israel’s history. The period of the judges is coming to an end, and Israel will soon begin asking for a king. Before the book introduces us to Samuel, Saul, or David, however, it introduces us to a woman named Hannah. Her story begins with sorrow, moves through prayer and faith, and concludes with one of the great songs of praise in the Old Testament. Hannah was married to Elkanah, but she was unable to have children. Elkanah’s other wife, Peninnah, had sons and daughters, and she regularly provoked Hannah because of her barrenness. This was more than an occasional irritation. Scripture tells us that this happened “year by year” (1 Samuel 1:7). Hannah carried this burden for a long time. Elkanah loved Hannah and attempted to comfort her, but he couldn’t give her what she wanted most. When the family traveled to Shiloh to worship, Hannah’s grief became particularly intense. . 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.

    • Transcript
  • September 14 · 4 min

    Daily Devotions with Pastor John - Called, loved, and kept by God

    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.

    • Transcript
  • September 13 · 35 min

    Timeless Wisdom with Dennis Prager - Is There a Moral Case for the Death Penalty? | Sunday Fireside Chat

    Fireside Chat Ep. 221 — Answering Your Questions originally aired on April 1st, 2021 Candlelight vigils are held for the most brutal murderers—attended by people opposed to the death penalty. But have they ever held a vigil for the murdered innocent? Dennis examines the moral arguments both in favor of and against the death penalty in this week's Fireside Chat. Donate to PragerU today: https://www.prageru.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    • Transcript
  • September 13 · 9 min

    Your Nightly Scripture - Coming Home to the Father's Love (Luke 15)

    Evening Scripture Luke, Chapter 15 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Then Jesus told them this parable: “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them. “Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything. “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate. “Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. ‘Your brother has come,’ he replied, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’ “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. But he answered his father, ‘Look! All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!’ “‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’” Evening Reflection The parable of the Prodigal Son, as it is commonly called, is one of the most prof

    • Transcript
Showing 521–540 of 869 episodes