Podcasts about like jesus

Serving others sounds simple until life gets busy, painful, or complicated. In this message, we explore how Jesus chose to serve even when He had every reason not to, and what that teaches us about following Him today. Discover why serving isn't just something Christians do, it's one of the primary ways we become more like Jesus.Timestamps:1:29 When shame keeps us from serving5:07 Jesus' final night and the example He set10:35 Why Jesus washed His disciples' feet13:23 What the church is really built on15:56 Building others without burning outLinks:Connect: https://www.beacon.church/connectSubscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@beacon_church?sub_confirmation=1Website: https://www.beacon.churchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beacon.church/

Most of us have heard the phrase, “the proof is in the pudding.” That’s a shortened version of the original phrase, “The proof of the pudding is in the eating.” We use the phrase when we want to express that the goodness or quality of something must be judged by experiencing it or seeing results from it. At its core, the phrase is about integrity: what’s inside shows up outside. This goes for us as well. What’s inside us will come out eventually. In today’s session, God’s Word is going to challenge us to love God and love others-and to do it well. How can we know how well we are doing? If we apply the phrase, “the proof is in the pudding,” we’ll realize that our love for God is inextricably connected with the way we love others. In other words, if we truly love God, that love for Him will overflow in our relationships with other people. Love for God and love for people aren’t at odds and can’t be pitted against one another. Our love for God is proven by our love for people.” Love for God and love for people aren’t at odds and can’t be pitted against one another. Jesus’s parable shows it plainly: our love for God is proven by our love for people. Love without action is not love. Action without salvation from Christ is not the gospel lived out. The post CONNECTING WITH OTHERS LIKE JESUS DID – Showing Love (YOU-Sum’26, Study 1, Session 3) appeared first on YOU.

Overcomer Covenant Church exists to advance the Kingdom of God, locally and globally, by preaching the Gospel, partnering with other ministries, and planting churches. To support Overcomer and help us continue to reach people all around the world, click here: https://overcomercc.org/give If you've just made a decision for Christ, click the link today - https://overcomercc.org/saved If this is your first time joining us, click the link today - https://overcomercc.org/newhere —— Stay Connected! Website: https://overcomercc.org YouTube: https://youtube.com/@overcomercc Instagram: https://instagram.com/overcomercc Facebook: https://facebook.com/overcomercc

This sermon is part of our year long series titled 'A Life Less Ordinary' which seeks to helps us deepen our faith and become more like Jesus. The series is split into three parts: Learning From JesusLiving Like JesusBecoming Like JesusThe aim of the series is for us to become transformed and more like Jesus.

Can Christians disagree without destroying relationships?In a culture fueled by outrage, Jesus modeled a better way.This episode explores how Jesus approached hard conversations—with grace, truth, curiosity, humility, and love. From political disagreements to church conflict to conversations about identity and sexuality, we discuss practical ways to engage people without losing sight of the gospel.If you've ever felt hurt by the church, frustrated by Christian culture, or uncertain how faith fits into today's conversations, this episode is for you.The goal isn't winning arguments.The goal is becoming more like Jesus.Listen now and discover how healthy conversations can become opportunities for healing, understanding, and spiritual growth.

John 13:1–17 | Eugene Au

This sermon is part of our year long series titled 'A Life Less Ordinary' which seeks to helps us deepen our faith and become more like Jesus. The series is split into three parts: Learning From JesusLiving Like JesusBecoming Like JesusThe aim of the series is for us to become transformed and more like Jesus.

SummaryThis sermon explores the true meaning of servanthood from a biblical perspective, emphasizing humility, selflessness, and love for God. It challenges believers to embody Christ's example of service, demonstrating love through actions that often go unnoticed.Chapters00:00 The Reality of Servanthood05:24 Serving as an Expression of Love12:12 The Example of Christ in Service17:55 Building Up the Body of Christ23:42 Practical Ways to Serve29:16 The Call to Serve One Another ResourcesPodcasts: https://icandopodcast.comBlogs: https://benjaminlee.blogBooks: https://benjaminlee.blog/books-2/Merch: https://benjaminlee.blog/resources/#!/Youtube: https://youtube.com/@icandopodcast?si=5oyFqKOSAu0EiTQmPhilippians 2:5-11 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+2%3A5-11Matthew 25:34-40 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+25%3A34-40Acts 2:44-47 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+2%3A44-47John 13:1-17 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+13%3A1-17Romans 12:10-13 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+12%3A10-13Galatians 5:13 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians+5%3A13

Check out week one of More Like Jesus here!

"When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them." - John 13:12 NIVA visual learner? Watch the stream back now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John 15:24 “If I had not done among them the works which no one else did, they would not have sin; but now they have both seen and hated Me and My Father as well.” It's miraculous and supernatural for anyone to live to love with Jesus. It takes a work of grace and glory to transform a hater of God into a lover of God. Look what sin has done to mankind. We live to hate God. We don't know we hate God until He shows up and does what only He can do. He does the works of God—works that no one else has ever done or can do. We all died when Adam sinned. Death is all we know, and we think it is life because our hearts are beating and we are breathing. So it was with that generation at the time of Jesus' coming. They didn't know they were dead in their sin until Jesus came and revealed the life of God. They saw His works, heard His words, and hated Him because He did things they could not do. He exposed them. John described the coming of Jesus this way in John 3:19-20. “This is the judgment, that the Light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the Light, for their deeds were evil. For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.” The same will be true of all those who are His and who walk in the Light of Christ. God is light and the light is love. As they love with Jesus, it will expose those who walk in darkness. Their love is a supernatural love just as the works of Jesus were supernatural. Like Jesus, they will be hated because in everyone who has sin ruling their lives, the love and works of Jesus bring out hatred for Jesus and His Father. Father, give us courage and the love we need to walk in Your light today. Accomplish your work for the glory of your name. Acknowledgment: Music from “Carried by the Father” by Eric Terlizzi. www.ericterlizzi.com

Pastor Shelby shares an encouraging message.

Part 1 of our 2026 Catechetical Homilies on the Lord's PrayerTexts: Matthew 6:5-15, Luke 11:1-8

The people who comprise a local church doing what this passage says is what will make a church great in God's eyes. One command is the umbrella: Have this attitude. 1 - Because it is Jesus' example (5-8) 2 - Because it is the path to exaltation (9-11)

In March 2020, the World Health Organization officially declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic. People were advised to distance themselves by six feet or more to avoid exposure to the virus. When a positive diagnosis was made, the sick individual was quarantined initially for 14 days; later, the quarantine period was reduced to five days. The aim of all of this was to isolate the virus and those infected by it. The unintended consequence was that it isolated people. Churchesfaced concerns of isolation as well. As worship services were modified and became solely virtual in many cases, opportunities for a handshake or a hug became rare. Years later, many churches are still trying to get things back to the way they used to be before the pandemic, to varying degrees. Unfortunately, believers can import an isolation mindset into relationships with unbelievers, keeping so much distance that there’s no meaningful contact. This was not the way Jesus related to others. In Luke 7, we see Jesus teaching a master class in making others a priority in our lives, even those who are different or spiritually sick.” Unfortunately, believers can import an isolation mindset into relationships with unbelievers, keeping so much distance that there’s no meaningful contact. This was not the way Jesus related to others. In Luke 7, we see Jesus teaching a master class in making others a priority in our lives, even those who are different or spiritually sick. Let’s watch the Teacher and learn from Him. The post CONNECTING WITH OTHERS LIKE JESUS DID – Making Others a Priority (YOU-Sum’26, Study 1, Session 2) appeared first on YOU.

The sermon centers on the call to embody Christ's character by being full of both grace and truth, drawing from John 1:14 where Jesus is described as the Word made flesh, dwelling among humanity with glory, grace, and truth. The preacher emphasizes that authentic Christian living is not about self-actualization or personal authenticity, but about being conformed to Christ's image through a life marked by loving forgiveness, compassionate burden-bearing, and unwavering commitment to biblical truth. By contrasting the dangers of unchecked grace—leading to moral compromise—and rigid truth—resulting in pride and judgment—the message highlights the harmonious balance found in Christ, who exemplified both. The call to discipleship is practical: to study Scripture, be transformed by the renewing of the mind, and live out faith with the Holy Spirit's anointing, so that others may see Christ through the believer's life. Ultimately, the preacher positions himself and the congregation as conduits of Christ's presence, inviting a community shaped not by self, but by the transformative power of grace and truth.

Jesus shows us how to serve. Learn more in this message from John 13, verses 1-15.

I don't think we ask ourselves this enough.

Welcome to Extraordinary Church's Weekend Worship Service! Extraordinary Church is the perfect church for imperfect people. We believe in the power of God's love and Spirit to transform lives and bring about extraordinary change. Whether you've been a believer for years or are searching for something more, we invite you to join us on this extraordinary journey of pursuing Jesus. Get ready to dive into a powerful experience that will uplift and inspire you. Our Weekend Worship Service happens every Sunday at 3 pm EST, and we have made it easily accessible for everyone. Tune in via YouTube, Facebook, our website, or our user-friendly mobile app. Wherever you are, we're here to connect with you! During our Weekend Worship Service, you can expect dynamic worship, relevant teaching, and practical insights from the Word of God. We create a space where believers can grow deeper in their faith while reaching out to those who may have never stepped foot inside a church. It's a place where you can encounter God's presence and experience His extraordinary love firsthand. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to connect, grow, and be inspired! Join us at Extraordinary Church's Weekend Worship Service every Sunday at 3 pm EST. Get ready to discover a community that embraces your imperfections and encourages you to embrace God's extraordinary plan for your life. Remember, you are welcome here, just as you are. Come and be a part of something extraordinary! Subscribe to our YouTube channel, follow us on Facebook, visit our website, or download our mobile app to stay connected and never miss an update. See you at Weekend Worship Service!

Kicking off a brand new series where we are going through the later epistles of the apostle John. Even though we are starting in 1 John, our leading verse comes out of 3 John: 3 John 1:4 "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." And with it, we are establishing this thought throughout the series, that walking with Jesus means letting Jesus lead. What God has done in our lives helps others to see what God can do in theirs. As we look at the foundational concepts of what it means to walk with Jesus, we have to understand that as we walk and follow Jesus, we will look more like Jesus. Following Jesus means active participation, it means we are constantly growing and being shaped by God into more of an image of Jesus. When we think there is no need for us to change, we deceive ourselves. Life with Jesus is never stationary. - Key Verses // 1 John 1:1-4, 3 John 1:4 - For Sermon Notes, the Connect Card, and our other online resources: https://linktr.ee/Celebrationchurchlive

"Jesus gave them this answer: “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does."" - John 5:19 NIVA visual learner? Watch the stream back now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pray Like Jesus - Pastor Brent Ingersoll

The Bible makes it clear that believers should meet the needs of others. Yet we sometimes hesitate, unsure of who has a need that should be met. Did you know there is a test to see if a person has unmet needs? There is! Simply hold a mirror directly under a person’s nose and watch what happens. If, after a few seconds, the mirror fogs, that means they have unmet needs. The point is that every living, breathing person has unmet needs. Now we don’t need to carry a mirror around in our pockets every day, much less place it under the noses of the people we meet, but we can begin to develop a willingness to help others by seeing and meeting their needs. Keep this in mind as you interact with the people you encounter each day. Did you know there is a test to see if a person has unmet needs? There is! Simply hold a mirror directly under a person’s nose and watch what happens. If, after a few seconds, the mirror fogs, that means they have unmet needs.” In our session today, we see Jesus modeling this for us, He connects with two men who had unmet needs. Jesus demonstrated both awareness of their needs and concern about those needs. Through His willingness to meet their needs, their lives were changed dramatically. Believers can do the same by meeting needs and pointing others to Jesus. The post CONNECTING WITH OTHERS LIKE JESUS DID – Meeting Needs (YOU-Sum’26, Study 1, Session 1) appeared first on YOU.

In this episode of The Leader's Cut, Preston Morrison sits down with Matt Chandler for a raw, honest conversation about the journey to a life of holiness. The unpack the lies that keeps most people from ever experiencing true freedom, and move past the superficial to explore what it actually looks like to be refined by the Spirit of God in the places no one else sees. Matt pulls back the curtain on the subtle but dangerous shift that happens when we stop following Jesus as Lord and start treating Him like an messenger for our own comfort. If the goal of life has become an endless cycle of upgrades and ease, this conversation serves as a necessary reset. It's a deep dive into the reality that real change isn't found in a crowded room on Sunday, but in the quiet, mundane moments of a random weekday afternoon. In this conversation, we explore: * The "Tuesday" Concept: The reason spiritual growth is actually found in the monotonous, ordinary parts of life rather than the mountaintops. * The Strength of Vulnerability: Why the most influential people are often the ones willing to be the most honest about their own need for change. * Conviction vs. Shame: How to tell the difference between the voice that wants to hide you and the voice that wants to heal you. * No Dark Corners: What it looks like to finally invite God into the spaces we usually try to keep off-limits. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's an invitation to stop performing and start yielding. For anyone who feels like they've been running on a spiritual treadmill, this discussion offers a path toward a peace that actually lasts—even when life gets uncomfortable.    

Becoming Just Like Jesus by Abner Suarez

Join us this week as Pastor Sarah Beth Lennon brings a message on the importance of devoting ourselves to fellowship in the house of God. Let's rid ourselves of selfishness and love each other as Christ loves. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join us as we continue our series

Catch the final sermon of CAN'T NOBODY DO ME LIKE JESUS and experience Jesus who is your power.

As we continue our series in 1 Corinthians 2, Paul reminds us that the message of Jesus is not carried by human strength, persuasive wisdom, or clever words, but by the power of the Holy Spirit at work in us.

https://www.madisonchristian.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/grow-may-2026-sermon-series.jpg GROW to be like Jesus: Growth in Community false no 1:07:53

Get your copy of our 2026 Annual Read: Tozer on the Son of God by A.W. Tozer.First Time?Start Here: https://bit.ly/MarinersconnectcardCan we pray for you? https://bit.ly/MarinersPrayerOnlineYou can find information for all our Mariners congregations, watch more videos, and learn more about us and our ministries on our website https://bit.ly/MarinersChurchSite.FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marinerschurch• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marinerschurch• Twitter: https://twitter.com/marinerschurch• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marinerschurchSupport the ministry and help us reach people worldwide: https://bit.ly/MarinersGive

Was King Saul a type of Christ?Most Christians think of Saul as Israel's failed first king—a man marked by disobedience, pride, and eventual rejection. But before Saul's downfall, Scripture presents him as a deliverer of God's people, raising an important question: does Saul foreshadow the coming Messiah?In this episode of Shadows to Substance, Pastor George Sayour explores 1 Samuel 10–11, uncovering surprising connections between King Saul, Genesis 3:15, the theme of the promised Deliverer, and the broader biblical pattern that ultimately points to Jesus Christ. From Saul's anointing and victory over Israel's enemies to the serpent imagery surrounding Nahash the Ammonite, this study reveals how even flawed figures in the Old Testament can serve as shadows of the greater King to come.Discover how Saul's story fits into the Bible's unified message and why Jesus is the true and perfect Deliverer who succeeds where every earthly king failed. In this episode:• Was King Saul a type of Christ?• Saul's role as Israel's deliverer• The significance of Nahash and serpent imagery • Genesis 3:15 and the promised Seed• Biblical typology explained• How the Old Testament points to Jesus• Why Christ is the greater KingSubscribe for more biblical theology, typology, covenant theology, and Christ-centered Bible study from the Eschatology Matters Network

What does God's Word say about judging others, showing mercy, and walking in humility?In this powerful episode I sit down with Shannon Popkin to have an honest conversation about judgment, criticism, mercy, and the condition of our hearts. In a culture where opinions are loud and criticism is constant, it's easy to slip into a judging mindset without even realizing it. Drawing from her new book Kinda Judgy: Finding Mercy for Myself and Others in Six Stories of the Bible, Shannon shares biblical wisdom, relatable stories, and practical truth to help us recognize self-righteousness, comparison, offense, and critical thinking patterns that can quietly shape our hearts. Through six powerful Bible stories—including Noah, Rahab, Jonah, Simon the Pharisee, the blind man, and the second thief—she reveals the difference between righteous discernment and sinful judgment while pointing us back to the mercy of God.This conversation is freeing, convicting, and filled with grace as Shannon discusses how to melt judgy pride, extend compassion to others, and live as daughters of the merciful Judge. If you've ever struggled with criticism, comparison, offense, or feeling hurt by others' opinions, this episode will encourage you to draw closer to Jesus and allow His mercy to transform your heart.Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that will challenge you to see others through the lens of God's grace and help you live out biblical truth in your everyday relationships.Connect with Shannon Popkin https://www.shannonpopkin.com/Amazon: https://a.co/d/0aiiFekATake Shannon's Quiz:subscribepage.io/kindajudgy

Savior, I'm standing on the deep rock, that is you, in this fight.Scripture: 2 Thessalonians 3:5Keywords: Fighting like Jesus; Holy Spirit; Jesus; fighting a battle; wisdom; strength; direction.Best of, Summer.

Was King Saul a type of Christ?Most Christians think of Saul as Israel's failed first king—a man marked by disobedience, pride, and eventual rejection. But before Saul's downfall, Scripture presents him as a deliverer of God's people, raising an important question: does Saul foreshadow the coming Messiah?In this episode of Shadows to Substance, Pastor George Sayour explores 1 Samuel 10–11, uncovering surprising connections between King Saul, Genesis 3:15, the theme of the promised Deliverer, and the broader biblical pattern that ultimately points to Jesus Christ. From Saul's anointing and victory over Israel's enemies to the serpent imagery surrounding Nahash the Ammonite, this study reveals how even flawed figures in the Old Testament can serve as shadows of the greater King to come.Discover how Saul's story fits into the Bible's unified message and why Jesus is the true and perfect Deliverer who succeeds where every earthly king failed. In this episode:• Was King Saul a type of Christ?• Saul's role as Israel's deliverer• The significance of Nahash and serpent imagery • Genesis 3:15 and the promised Seed• Biblical typology explained• How the Old Testament points to Jesus• Why Christ is the greater KingSubscribe for more biblical theology, typology, covenant theology, and Christ-centered Bible study from the Eschatology Matters NetworkWatch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere

In our final part - Part 4 - of “Fight Like Jesus”, we continue our thought on how to fight FOR your spouse – not just FIGHT your spouse. When conflict comes, many couples know how to fight each other, but they have never learned how to fight for each other. Before we can handle harsh words, wounded feelings, frustration, and unmet expectations, we must first learn from the greatest example of all: Jesus Christ.In this episode, we look at a final great truth: Jesus acted in grace. We see how Jesus was quick to forgive, extended mercy, was willing to sacrifice and more. You don't want to miss this final part!

Was King Saul a type of Christ?Most Christians think of Saul as Israel's failed first king—a man marked by disobedience, pride, and eventual rejection. But before Saul's downfall, Scripture presents him as a deliverer of God's people, raising an important question: does Saul foreshadow the coming Messiah?In this episode of Shadows to Substance, Pastor George Sayour explores 1 Samuel 10–11, uncovering surprising connections between King Saul, Genesis 3:15, the theme of the promised Deliverer, and the broader biblical pattern that ultimately points to Jesus Christ. From Saul's anointing and victory over Israel's enemies to the serpent imagery surrounding Nahash the Ammonite, this study reveals how even flawed figures in the Old Testament can serve as shadows of the greater King to come.Discover how Saul's story fits into the Bible's unified message and why Jesus is the true and perfect Deliverer who succeeds where every earthly king failed. In this episode:• Was King Saul a type of Christ?• Saul's role as Israel's deliverer• The significance of Nahash and serpent imagery • Genesis 3:15 and the promised Seed• Biblical typology explained• How the Old Testament points to Jesus• Why Christ is the greater KingSubscribe for more biblical theology, typology, covenant theology, and Christ-centered Bible study from the Eschatology Matters Network

In Part 3 of “Fight Like Jesus”, we continue our thought on how to fight FOR your spouse – not just FIGHT your spouse. When conflict comes, many couples know how to fight each other, but they have never learned how to fight for each other. Before we can handle harsh words, wounded feelings, frustration, and unmet expectations, we must first learn from the greatest example of all: Jesus Christ.In this episode, we look two great truths for dealing with conflict: Understand Right Timing and "Look for the root - not just the fruit".

This episode is an invitation to rethink what sanctification actually looks like. If you've felt pressure to transform yourself overnight or believed that becoming like Jesus should be faster and cleaner than it is, this conversation will meet you right where you are. I sat down with Matt Chandler to talk about sanctification, suffering, surrender, and the slow process of spiritual formation. This feels less like an interview and more like a mentoring session with someone who has walked with God through incredible highs and devastating lows. Matt makes the case that becoming like Jesus is not a light switch flipping on, it's an oak tree slowly growing over time. An oak becomes strong through rain, sunlight, dry seasons, storms, and deep freezes. In the same way, spiritual maturity develops through every season of life, not just the easy ones. In this episode, Matt walks through what spiritual formation actually looks like: Sanctification is messy and non-linear, but every turn moves you forward Growth starts with humility and surrender, not strength or self-reliance God is not waiting for you to fail, He's cheering your growth like a loving Father When you mess up, run toward God, not away from Him Suffering is often where we grow most because God meets us there Community is essential, you cannot become like Jesus in isolation Rather than perfection and performance, Matt shares the invitation to stay close to Jesus, let Him transform you over time, and trust Him in every season. Nothing is wasted. God uses it all to form us into the image of Jesus. Becoming like Jesus is slow, messy, humbling, and beautiful. This episode is about surrendering the pressure to fix yourself and letting Jesus do the transforming work. If you don't quit, you win.   SPONSORS CrowdHealth A different approach to healthcare that helps you: Access vetted doctors Lower prescription and lab costs Receive support negotiating medical bills Use code SPEAKEASY at joincrowdhealth.com to get started. Just Thrive A clinically proven probiotic designed to support: Gut health Energy Digestion Immunity Get 20% off your order at justthrivehealth.com with code BLAKE.

Hungry for More than Milk? This message reveals a stunning truth: Jesus gets you. He understands. Not from a distance. Not from a throne room. From experience. He stepped into your struggle. He knows your pain. With Him, there is no scorekeeping, no distance, no performance review. Just a High Priest with scars who meets you in your worst moments with mercy, grace, and an unshakable salvation. He is not like the old. He is better in every way. And He is yours. Discussion Questions for Hebrews 5: Why is it important that Jesus truly became human to represent us? How does Jesus' compassion differ from human, weakness-based compassion? What are the benefits of Jesus being both the Son of God and our High Priest? Verse 7 says Jesus prayed with loud crying and tears. What does this reveal about Jesus? React to this statement: Like Jesus, we learn obedience, even while we're righteous. Read verse 9. How should we understand "obey Him" in the context of Hebrews 1-5? In your own words, explain the role and importance of Melchizedek. What's the difference between spiritual "milk" and "the word of righteousness"?

What does it really mean to crucify the flesh and follow Jesus daily? Romans 8:13 reminds believers that true spiritual life comes through surrendering sinful desires and living by the power of the Holy Spirit. In this devotional, Hannah Benson explores the biblical meaning of “taking up your cross,” showing how God leads us into deeper peace, freedom, and abundant life through daily surrender. Highlights Romans 8:13 teaches that living by the Spirit requires putting sinful desires to death. Jesus modeled surrender in Gethsemane by choosing the Father’s will over His own. Carrying your cross means daily surrendering control, pride, and self-centered desires. Honest prayer and dependence on God are essential in seasons of struggle. Abundant life is found in God’s presence, not in comfortable circumstances. God often asks us to release things we tightly cling to so He can fill us with peace. The Holy Spirit gives believers strength to walk in obedience and freedom. 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: What Does Crucifying the Flesh Really Mean? By Hannah Benson Bible Reading:“For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live” (Romans 8:13 ESV). What a way to start a devotional. Aren’t devotionals supposed to be uplifting and encouraging? Yes. Aren’t they also supposed to be challenging? Yes. What does this verse mean? Jesus tells us in the Gospels to take up our cross and follow Him (Matthew 16:24, Mark 8:34, Luke 9:23), but what does that actually mean? Most of us don’t have a physical cross we’re called to bear. Jesus’s cross was by no means easy for Him to carry, even though He is the Son of God. He had to humble Himself, even to the point of death. Death by a cross was not only humiliating but the most excruciating death imaginable in those days. Matthew 26:39 (ESV) says: “And going a little farther, he fell on his face and prayed, saying, ‘My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.’” Yes, Jesus wanted to save humanity and was willing to endure death on a cross if it was the only way. But Gethsemane shows us that as a man, if there had been any other way to accomplish the mission without the agony of the cross, He would have taken it. He chose the nails because there was no other way to save us. Matthew writes that His “soul was very sorrowful, even to death” (Matthew 26:38b). Luke 22:43, 44 (ESV) includes that as He prayed, “And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. And being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.” Have you ever known anyone who has been so stressed or in such great agony that they sweat blood? We can’t even begin to imagine how much Jesus loves us to not only die for us, but to endure the most unimaginable death possible. If He bore the cross for us, can we not bear ours if He asks us? But that doesn’t mean we are called to carry a literal cross. So, what does it mean to “carry our cross” each day and to “put to death the deeds of the body”? It starts with honesty, with ourselves and with God. Like Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, it’s okay to admit we wish there was another way. Like David in many of the Psalms (Psalm 13 is a great example of this), it’s okay to tell God we’re struggling with anger towards Him. Second, we need to be willing to surrender. As Jesus prayed, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will” (Matthew 26:39b). Job is another example. He had to surrender everything he didn’t understand, his desire for answers, and recognize that God was in complete control (Job 42:2-3). What about Paul? He begged God to remove the thorn from his flesh, but God responded: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Just as the angel came to strengthen Jesus, we must rely on God’s strength to help us. We cannot rely on our own strength to carry us through. We may want to be angry, and maybe we even think we have a good reason for it. Our flesh will tell us we have a right to hold grudges, that we deserve what we want, and that we need to be the ones in control. Sound familiar? News flash. We were never meant to write the stories of our lives. We may think we want to hold the pen, but that is no way to live. Jesus came that we may have life and have it abundantly (John 10:10). Abundant life comes through death and surrender. He tells us in Matthew 16:25 (ESV): “Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” Jesus wasn’t just talking about physical death here. As believers, we need to die daily to our wants, desires, and even the things that may be good. Anything we desire more than God needs to be put in its proper place in our lives. Intersecting Faith & Life: Sometimes, dying to ourselves might mean sacrificing the very thing we hold dear, what we clench in our fists and refuse to yield. You know what I’m talking about? There have been seasons in my life where the Lord allows something I’d considered good to be removed from my life. Sometimes it’s shocking, and it hurts. Okay, let me rephrase that. Usually, it always hurts. We were never meant to hold the pen or be the director of our story. Only God can do that. In Psalm 81:10 (ESV), God tells the Israelites: “I am the Lord your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it.” If we want to experience the abundant life Jesus has for us, then we need to “open our mouths.” If we cling to the past and what we think we want, then we don’t have hearts open to what the Lord has planned. Don’t mistake the word “abundant” for “easy” or a life filled with material goods. The abundance Jesus promises isn’t found in our circumstances. If it were, Paul wouldn’t be able to write about overflowing joy while sitting in prison. While sometimes God does bless us circumstantially, the abundant life He promises us is found in His presence as we draw near to Him.When God gently pries our fingers open, it’s not to leave us empty-handed. It’s to make room for His peace, which is our portion, and His presence, which fills us to overflowing. We need to die to ourselves each and every day. Romans 8:13 tells us that if we put these things to death, we will live. Not merely survive, but truly live. Today, if you’re clenching your fists around something that God is asking you to yield, be honest. Tell Him you don’t want to let go. Tell Him it hurts. And then, by His strength, let it go. Whatever He asks you to surrender will pale in comparison to the abundant life He desires to give you. Pray with me: Dear Father, I’ll be honest. I’m tired of trying to hold the pen. I admit that I’ve been clenching my fists around my plans, my timing, and my “good” things, afraid to let go. Thank You for the unimaginable way You love me and for Your death on the cross so I may live. Please give me the strength I don’t have on my own to put my self-will to death today. I open my hands and my heart to You. Fill the empty spaces with Your peace and help me to trust Your presence is my greatest good. In Jesus’s Name, Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Read OnlineEternal Love and JoyJesus said to his disciples: “As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and remain in his love.” John 15:9–10Imagine being loved by someone with a perfect love. Perfect love has no bounds, and experiencing it would be the source of indescribable joy. Now imagine further that the one who loves you is all-powerful and all-knowing. When combined with being all-loving, there is no limit to what such a relationship can do in your life.Of course, we do not need to only imagine such a love; we can receive that love from God. Jesus' words are deep, personal, and intimate: “As the Father loves me, so I also love you.” His love for you is not conditional, limited, or selfish. When He says to you, “I love you,” He means it with every power of His divine soul. Jesus beautifully describes His love for us: “As the Father loves me…” The love the Father has for the Son is so deep, perfect, and all-consuming that we cannot fully comprehend it, even in Heaven. For all eternity, we will gaze with wonder and awe at this shared love and never tire of contemplating it. What's more, the love between Father and Son is so strong that it cannot be contained within Themselves. Their love overflows in superabundance, pouring out upon us, inviting us to enjoy perfect fulfillment within it.Jesus' next words are both an invitation and a command: “Remain in my love.” God's love for us is far more than an emotion or affectionate concern. His love is a gift of His very Self, drawing us into communion with Him. To “remain” in His love means to live, move, and exist in His presence. Divine love is transforming, enduring, and life-changing. It unites us to the divine Lover and establishes the life-giving communion for which we were made.After inviting us to remain in His love, Jesus clarifies how we can receive His ongoing and transformative gift: “If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and remain in His love.” At first, these words might seem challenging, especially when we consider our fallen nature and tendency toward pride. Yet they only feel burdensome if we misunderstand His commandments.In order to fully embrace Jesus' commandments, we need to see them for what they are: expressions of pure love gushing forth from the shared love of the Father and the Son. Note that Jesus doesn't ask anything of us that He Himself was unwilling to do. His love for the Father was perfect because He kept the Father's commandments. What did the Father command the Son to do? He commanded Him to love with a selfless, sacrificial love, culminating in laying down His life for us.If we want to receive God's love and share in its perfection, we too must love—just as the Father loves the Son, the Son loves the Father, and they both love us. Like Jesus, we must become an unconditional gift of self for others. This is the nature of true love.By becoming an unconditional gift of self, we do not become anyone's savior; rather, we allow the one true Savior to touch others through us. True love is divine. It does not originate within us but flows from God to us and through us. If we attempt to keep that love to ourselves, it is extinguished.Reflect today on the perfect love within the Most Holy Trinity. Hear Jesus invite you to share in that perfect love on the condition that you become an instrument of it for others. This is His commandment: “Love one another as I love you” (John 15:12). Only in this way will we share in the perfect joy God desires to bestow upon us for all eternity.My loving Lord, Your love is perfect, all-consuming, and transforming. Your invitation to remain in Your love is an invitation to share in Your very life, the life You share with the Father and the Holy Spirit. I accept Your invitation, dear Lord, and vow to keep Your commandments so as to become an instrument of Your love for others. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Stained glass of Jesus at the right hand of GodSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

After more than two decades leading a church – and through his own faith journey, too – Pastor Matt Chandler says confidently that, “Come what may, God is at work.”  In this conversation on sanctification, Matt, Jackie and Preston explore the Beatitudes of Matthew 5, not as a checklist of spiritual goals but a portrait of a person Jesus is creating as we mature in Christ. The Christian life isn't about wins and losses; it's about staying tethered to Jesus through the highs and lows. Keep saying yes to Him, and He'll use it all to form you. This is part 1 of a 2-part conversation. Check out Matt Chandler's new book, “Becoming Like Jesus: The Everyday Journey to Living a Life of Holiness” (releasing this week, April 28): https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Like-Jesus-Everyday-Holiness/dp/1400344301  Scripture References Matthew 5:3-12 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we talk to pastor and author, Matt Chandler, about his new book "Becoming Like Jesus". The path to holiness is oftentimes not a straight line. We talk with Matt about how God uses the ups and downs of life to shape us into the likeness of His Son!