It’s that time of year again! Amidst all the baubles, beads, and good cheer being dispensed as we close out 2024, it is also a good time to reflect on the year in faith-based entertainment that may or may not have caught your eye.For the Crossmap editorial team, the year...
It’s that time of year again! Amidst all the baubles, beads, and good cheer being dispensed as we close out 2024, it is also a good time to reflect on the year in faith-based entertainment that may or may not have caught your eye.For the Crossmap editorial team, the year...
Keri Willis
And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ,
Lisa Price
We must be willing to bring up the main thing even when the dumpster fire world flies into a rage because we dared to bring up Jesus. It is not enough for Christians to live good lives, nor is it e…
For those who might not know, The Crossmap Podcast features inspiring heart-to-heart conversations with Christian newsmakers of the day including authors, experts, pastors, and entertainers on topics that are good for the entire family while honoring your faith-based values.Crossmap managing editor Chris Carpenter engages guests in thought-provoking but light-hearted banter...
At first glance, it’s easy to say, “Been there, done that,” when considering whether to watch the new original Great American Pure Flix streaming series, Destination Heaven. And why not? It’s a show about people struggling with various difficulties in life, and then God shows up, meets them face to...
An Excerpt from Overflowing: A mystery is something that needs either solving or explaining, and I like all my books to follow a sweet pathway strewn with roses, music, and laughter. There is, however, one mystery that makes my heart quake for joy and my eyes shine wide with wonder…
To see the Navy’s elite Blue Angels elite Flight Demonstration Squadron in action can be one of the most thrilling and exhilarating experiences a person will ever observe. Featuring precision flying and breathtaking maneuvers, the Blue Angels consistently provide a spectacular showcase for aerial wizardry. For more than 75 years,...
Sheryl H. Boldt
What would happen if we saw our parents as people who suffered their own hurts and their own unmet needs? Our parents probably have already beaten themselves up and wished they’d been a whole lot closer to perfect.
Have you ever asked God to take care of a situation, but then found yourself holding on to it so tightly you got in His way? I sure have. I’ve prayed for various situations and then tried to fix them myself. Not a good idea. I saw a great example of that when my son was in elementary school. Read more...
The more doors that shut in my face, the more thankful I am for Jesus Christ, the Key of David. Because at the end of life's hall is one marvelous, wide-open door. No matter what anyone does to you, no matter what doors of opportunity slam in your face, no matter what chances for “a more satisfying life” pass you by, none of these can keep you from coming to God.
J.W. Phillips
We come to the concluding line of this most amazing birth announcement where we find Jesus called “the prince of peace.”The Bible speaks of three different types of peace.First, there is peace with God (Romans 5:1). This is the most important peace, salvation peace. Once we were on a collision...
Eliezer Gonzalez
The actual Greek word that Peter uses, that is translated here as truly glad, and as in the KJV, literally means “jump for joy.” The Christian can jump for joy even though he or she may have grief in all kinds of trials (v6a). What’s the reason for all this jumping around? This jump-for-joy gladness is because we have been born again (v3), and so we now live in breathless expectation (v3), because we have a priceless and incorruptible inheritance (v4). And even if we suffer now, nothing can touch us unless God permits it (v5).
It seems like everyone is trying to cash in on the Christmas season. Recording artists pushing their new Christmas albums. Movie studios streaming their latest Christmas movies. Worship artists rel…
Ray Oster
The Rise of TikTok is transforming music promotion for indie artists. Learn how to maximize its potential to grow your audience and impact.
I’m not going to act all high and mighty and say I’ve never been petty or sometimes act petty towards my husband. lol Sometimes, pettiness can be amusing and liven up your relationship. In fact, sometimes, you earn the right to act petty, especially when your husband is being too difficult or annoying. However, if …
Mike Genung
In a time when 75% of youth are leaving the church, it is critical that we reach out to our youth, listen to what they have to say, and equip them for the battles they are facing. In this second of two broadcasts, Rebekah Genung, Read More
Charlaine Martin
Eventually, we must put the past where it belongs because God has something better for us.
Bringing a newborn into the world is a time of overwhelming joy. However, it is also a time of sleep deprivation as well. It's very exciting to welcome a baby into your home but the reality is that sleepless nights are going to be the order of the day for many parents. This can have
“But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy, and spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may exult in you”- Psalm 5:11Old Covenant AnticipationThe Old Testament is filled with stories of people filled with joy by abiding by God and his promises. Nehemiah is admonished with, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Isaiah prophesied, “For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace.” (Isaiah 55:12). These descriptions of joy are filled with
The foundation of the New Jerusalem is grace, and this grace is all-inclusive. Such a grace is the processed and consummated Triune God embodied and expressed. The twelve apostles, whose names are …
Lori Altebaumer
God’s generosity can’t be “out sinned.” All our failings and unfaithfulness haven’t and won't exhaust God’s generosity.
I came of age during the heyday of the 70s. That meant youth choir trips, Jesus music, and an obsession with the rapture, tribulation, and the antichrist. Those were days when everyone was reading …
Stacey Barkley
“I am the Lord’s servant; may it happen as you said” -- Luke 1:38 (HCSB)As I sat at my computer, hesitating to obey the Lord’s call on my life to write, I thought of Mary, the mother of Jesus. When the angel told her she would give birth to the...
When the wise men got to Jerusalem, they stopped to see Herod and inquired about the newborn king. Can you imagine their shock when nobody knew about the birth
By Elizabeth Prata This section of verses that show Jesus’ life are focused on His earthly ministry. We’ve seen Him as servant, teacher, shepherd, and now intercessor. Grace To You serm…
Stacey Barkley
“I am the Lord’s servant; may it happen as you said” -- Luke 1:38 (HCSB)Please Pray:Lord, help me trust You like Mary did, surrendering my fears and uncertainties. Strengthen me to obey Your call with humility and faith. Surround me with encouragement, and let my work glorify You. I am...
Revive Our Hearts
Instead of allowing your heart to get swept along with all of the craziness that December can bring, stop and meditate on our true Treasure.
J.W. Phillips
Some titles exaggerate. They promise more than they deliver, advertise more than they produce, tease more than they satisfy. The title of this series doesn’t fall into that category, because this is the most amazing birth announcement the world has ever received!We will find more evidence of that as we...
In humility, the Creator became one with the created. The God of heaven touched the earth. The all-powerful God became a helpless infant.
No one said a word to him, because they saw how great his suffering was. -Job 2:13b, NIV Forgiveness does NOT erase the effects of trauma! You can both forgive and still be revolted by your cheating spouse. The two are not mutually exclusive. I am annoyed with pastors and churches pushing traumatized faithful spouses … Continue reading "Forgiveness does NOT undo trauma!"
Reagan lived an amazing life and had an amazing presidency. Many do not know of the deep faith in Christ that influenced him throughout his presidency.
Eliezer Gonzalez
Christian warfare is utterly unlike the conflicts of this world. It does not depend on the strong arm, the quick eye, or the swift foot. It is not waged with physical weapons, but with spiritual. Faith is the hinge on which victory turns. Success depends entirely on believing. Faith in the truth of God’s written Word is the primary foundation of the Christian soldier’s character. As for true Christians, faith is the very backbone of their spiritual existence. No one ever fights earnestly against the world, the flesh, and the devil, unless he wears on his heart certain great principles which he believes. A special faith in our Lord Jesus Christ’s person, work, and office, is the life, heart and motivating force of the Christian soldier’s character. It's called the Fight of Faith for a reason.
Infidelity is tough. Writing about it is even tougher because we are not just writing about a topic here. These are people’s lives and families we are talking about here. Cheating can destroy relationships and cause immense pain. But it’s a sad reality that affairs happen more often than we’d like to admit. While both …
Lori Altebaumer
FaithDec. 22, 2024Season of Preparation Day Twenty: God's Fullness“For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell,” Colossians 1:19 My first Christmas with my future husband’s family gifted me with an awkward moment that I shall never forget. What does one say when they unwrap an empty...
By Elizabeth Prata This section of verses that show Jesus’ life are focused on His earthly ministry. We’ve seen Him as servant, teacher, and now shepherd.
J.W. Phillips
Someone has said that a baby is God’s opinion that the world should go on. But with the arrival of Bethlehem’s baby, it was God’s view that this world shouldn’t go on the way it had been. A dramatic changed needed to be made. And it was going to be...
Dating down is when you know someone isn’t an appropriate fit for you—yet you continue to date them anyway.
Eliezer Gonzalez
The life that the Spirit gives cannot be quenched, because it flows from the righteousness of Jesus.
By Elizabeth Prata How can we know God unless He reveals Himself to us? The creation confirms His existence, but what does the creature know of His attributes, Person, or Power? Unless He teaches u…
Affairs often start subtly, with hardly any warning signs. Even when there are warning signs, they are usually not strong enough to ring that alarm bell within. And the few times that those signs are obvious enough to cause suspicion, most people usually believe they are overthinking and probably need to trust their partners even …
During my previous relationship, I had a short period of time when it felt like I was emotionally bonding with another lady instead of my girlfriend. While people may say it was just a passing phase for me, I knew it wasn’t. It took a huge toll on my relationship because I was so emotionally …
Lori Altebaumer
FaithDec. 20, 2024Season of Preparation Day Nineteen: God's TimingAnd Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed 35 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also),...
To get the most out of prayer; be an individual in whom the Spirit provides the fervor, the focus, and the faith.
J.W. Phillips
Often, when we hear Isaiah’s birth announcement quoted, the next part of that announcement is, “And his name shall be called wonderful.” There is certainly truth in putting it that way. So before correcting the way the verse should be read, let’s gather some of the meanings that present when...
Photo generated via A.I. I looked up again and saw—surprise!—a book on the wing! A book flying! 2 The Messenger-Angel said to me, “What do you see now?” I said, “I see a book flying, a huge book—th…
Have you ever paused to ask yourself why you’re doing what you’re doing?With how busy life is these days, it’s easy to get caught up in achieving goals or chasing dreams without truly examining the…
Mom loved clothes shopping, and she had an incredible wardrobe—sensible business suits, that she mixed and matched to make a variety of ensembles, sturdy outdoor clothes for hiking, some nice dresses, and a few cocktail dresses for fancier occasions.Back when I was a farmer’s wife, my denim overalls were my...
Mike Genung
The following is an excerpt from my book 100 Days on the Road to Grace, with several questions for consideration afterward. Woman, where are they? Did no one condemn you? – John 8:10 The shame hangover from a porn binge is awful. I remember feeling Read More
Eliezer Gonzalez
All those who belong to Christ receive his Spirit.
Carol McLeod
A Note from Carol: I’m so excited to re-introduce you to Susan Myers, a treasured part of our ministry team. Susan is my little sister in the faith, a prayer warrior, and a woman who brings beauty and joy wherever she goes. Her love for Jesus shines in everything she does. This story is hers, publis
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven…. -Ecclesiastes 3:1, KJV So, you decided to divorce your cheater. However, you are still married. Please do not date during this limbo period. You will have plenty of time to do this after the divorce is finalized. This is a good … Continue reading "Please do NOT date while still married"
Lori Altebaumer
FaithDec. 20, 2024Season of Preparation Day Eighteen: God's BlessingsAnd Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,” Luke 1:46-47 After years of disappointment, suddenly finding out I was expecting twins was big news. It was news I wanted to keep to myself for...
Shay S. Mason
Christmas is upon us, and once again we feel like there’s not enough time to get everything done. There are work parties and school performances, Secret Santa gifts to buy and bushes needing lights, cookies to bake and presents to wrap. I felt especially pressed this year as I had surgery just befo
Peggi Tustan
And in despair I bowed my head: “There is no peace on earth,” I said,“For hate is strong, and mocks the songOf peace on earth, good will to men.”[1]It is Christmastime, a season of hope and happiness and...peace. Except this week, our peace was shattered when a school shooting left...
Grace came when God incarnated in Jesus. Through His death and resurrection, we were qualified to receive grace and now for everyone who believes grace is with our human spirit. This grace has much…
Welcome to Real Life . Got peace? And in despair I bowed my head: “There is no peace on earth,” I said, “For hate is strong, and mocks the s...
Why do you suppose that God chose Mary to receive a message delivered by the angel Gabriel? First and foremost, when anyone does anything for God, it must begin
These are 28 Gospel Films YouTube Channels where you can watch Godly and edifying movies. Related: Read about the Zion Box Christian Films here 1. Mount Zion films production Mount Zion Films production, Nigeria, their YouTube account: Damilola Mike Bamiloye. (Mount Zion Films is not a sole proprietorship, but rather a collective entity with Sir […]
By Elizabeth Prata Barnes’ Notes explains the ’emptying’ The word does not occur elsewhere in the New Testament, except in the passage before us. The essential idea is that of bri…
What kind of theologian are you? The way we live theology out at home impacts the world around us.
Mortality felt heavy. Urgent surgeries and school deaths weighed on me. A shoot from a dead stump of Jesse, an O Antiphon, sounds so good.
J.W. Phillips
It is not unusual for treasured documents to be read and re-read with the passing of years. Whether these are birth announcements, marriage certificates, or funeral cards, each viewing triggers memories.The birth announcement of Jesus, however, did exactly the opposite! It revealed what would be and not what had been....
Janet Perez-Eckles
How does God answer our prayers in moments of painful impossibilities?
By Elizabeth Prata One night, Nikos Politis was asleep. He began dreaming. He dreamed he saw a warrior angel from heaven in full armor and regalia. Nikos was entranced by the fact that the ‘a…
There’s no perfect relationship/marriage. But there’s a difference between having a bad day and truly reaching the end of your rope. When a woman says she’s done, it’s not something she tosses out on a whim. It’s a statement loaded with meaning. Let’s see what that means. When a Woman Says She’s Done With You: …
The manger highlights the way God uses our deepest pain, the things we wish were different, the despised and the lowly, to bring him the greatest glory. God’s kingdom is upside down. The last shall be first, the weak shall be strong, and the foolish shall shame the wise. And God incarnate will be la
Eliezer Gonzalez
Are you in the realm of the flesh or the realm of the Spirit?
I began my writing career having been inspired by this quote back in 1990 from film director John Waters (Cry-Baby, Hairspray) from a backpage article for the special edition Newsweek issue to kick off the last decade before the Twentieth Century. "Sex, drugs and rock and roll all seem so old hat
Secular films using Bible contents is the focus of this post. Gospel Drama artistes and film makers must wake up! Have you not observed the trends in secular films of late? They have expertly used contents and messages of the Bible in their movies. Have you watched The Prostitute film? Do so here Secular […]
Chris Chu
Life can often feel like a series of highs and lows, but few moments test our faith and resolve like a medical crisis. Whether it’s a personal diagnosis or a loved one’s illness, these situations can leave us feeling vulnerable, fearful, and overwhelmed. But, even in these darkest moments, there...
“I’m concerned that you will hold this [affair] over my head forever if I stay,” Cheater declares. A cheater who makes such a statement is still more concerned about themselves than the trauma they inflicted on their spouse by cheating. The statement really is revealing. Such a cheater still believes it is about their wishes … Continue reading "Holding it over their head forever?!"
I love reading the Old Testament and studying Jewish thought and practice. For one, it deepens my understanding of New Testament teaching and events. After all, Jesus was a Jew, as was Paul ……
By Elizabeth Prata We are flowing through a section of verses which focus on Jesus as the Second Person of the Trinity. Further Reading Though the verse is literally speaking about King David, the …
For many Christians, faith isn’t just a belief—it’s a way of life. From prayer and worship to acts of kindness, living in faith is a journey that brings comfort, hope, and direction. While these practices are at the heart of Christian life, one often overlooked way to deepen one’s faith is through the use of […]
J.W. Phillips
Seven hundred years passed between the time Isaiah announced the birth of Jesus and that day a manger was found for his birth in Bethlehem. And yet the world’s most amazing birth announcement uses a present tense verb, is. “For to us a child is born.” Is? But it hadn’t...
A Christian Christmas should be marked by celebration of God's grace, consecration to God, consideration of others, and concentration on the Gospel.
Lori Altebaumer
GeneralDec. 18, 2024Season of Preparation Day Seventeen: God's Kingdom“God’s kingdom is an upside down kingdom, where the path to greatness is via humble service.” ~Paul David Tripp God’s kingdom reveals glory in simplicity, greatness in humility, freedom in surrender, and honor in service. But perhaps the most upside down of...
Years ago, Chump Lady ran a post about how abusers operate. It is a vulgar version of Abuser TV (see post here). I have found it extremely helpful in decoding behavior of abusers in general. This includes Cheaters as well as others like spiritual abusers. I find understanding the three channel cycle is helpful in … Continue reading "Three Channels of Abuser TV"
For many years, the first week of December was my quarterly cancer screening. It was a cluster of different appointments shoehorned into a single day to accommodate my travel to Seattle. I’d walk from the ferry, passing storefronts festooned with lights, expertly wrapped boxes that looked like huge presents, and...
Chris Chu
“ Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” - 1 Thessalonians 5:11This verse reminds us of the election season, a time when differences in opinion can cause division. It calls us to rise above the tension and discord that elections often...
Eliezer Gonzalez
If we draw our identify from the kingdom of the flesh, it is impossible for us to please God.
‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the houseNot a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;The stockings were bulging, their toes showing wear,Full near to bursting, weight too great to bear.
Good day beautiful people, I pray that this post meets you and your family well? I know you may be wondering how a blog post on navigation software could possibly be able to inspire a persons mind,…
No one dreams of having a difficult marriage. Everyone wants happily ever afters. Since they don’t really exist, we are ready to settle for a successful marriage with little ups and downs. Think of it as a relatively smooth sea journey involving a little turbulence along the way. Ideally, marriage is a journey filled with …
Lori Altebaumer
FaithDec. 18, 2024Season of Preparation Day Sixteen: God's BelovedBeloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 1 John 4:11 For love to exist on earth, it had to first exist in heaven. What started as a love between the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—spilled over...
Revelation 21:14, “the wall of the city [New Jerusalem] had twelve foundations, and on them the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.” The foundation of the New Jerusalem is …
In our modern age, peace seems elusive. When meetings and deadlines fill our calendars, we often find ourselves wrapped in tension and stress, with peace as a distant afterthought. We may long for the peace that only Jesus can give, but calmness during December is fleeting at best. How does one rest in God’s peace during such an overloaded season? Be IntentionalThe first step in living in biblical peace is intentionality. As believers, we must make room daily in our hustling lives to be still an
By Elizabeth Prata PREEMINENCE OF THE SON, HIS WORKS & MINISTRY Beginning with verses that declare the Son, this section of the Advent flow of verses I’ve selected focus Him as the Second…
Sheryl H. Boldt
The more we draw near to and worship Him, the more we’ll become aware of how much He loves us and has intervened in our circumstances. The more we become aware of all He has done for us – and in us – the more we’ll experience healing from our pain and anger. Eventually, we’ll experience a joy we haven’t known for a long time.
As parents we can think we’re doing everything wrong. It's especially hard with all the holiday stress! But remember, the Lord is with you...
Grandma Peggy’s Love Thy Neighbor is a coloring book for ages 7 and up, presented as a heartwarming exploration of biblical stories, colorable sketches, bib ...
Donna Sparks
I do not have many prophetic dreams, and I certainly do not think every dream I have means something. But I had a dream last night that I believe was prophetic in nature. I woke up immediately after...
Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God. -2 Corinthians 6:1, NLT Cheaters defile the very temple that is their bodies by engaging in adulterous sin. We know this is the case … Continue reading "Defiled Temples of Carnal Christians"
Why God allows pain. It's not because he enjoys hurting us. But to remind us it's the result of sin. And show us the way to a better life.
Carol McLeod
Angels are an intrinsic and dynamic part of the Christmas story. Christmas simply would not have occurred without these God-sent messengers from heaven. We don’t know if the angels were clothed in flowing, white robes, if they had a halo that sparkled, or even if they flew with wings into the Christ
Lori Altebaumer
FaithDec. 17, 2024Season of Preparation Day Fifteen: God's SovereigntyNew parents dream of what it will be like to welcome a baby into their lives with the birthday parties, Little League games, and graduations to follow. Rarely does the parenting experience go as planned. But with Jesus, everything happened exactly as...
“You will seek me and find me when you search for me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13 When my granddaughter unpacks our nativity set every year, she meticulously unwraps each p…
By Elizabeth Prata People who are unsaved have no idea that they live in the kingdom of darkness. They believe all is well and go on with their lives, suppressing the truth in unrighteousness. Once…
Much has changed since the God of the universe decorated the night sky with the star of Bethlehem and directed the choir of angels in a chorus announcing the birth of Our Savior, Jesus Christ. But the commercialism doesn’t have to rule in our hearts and homes. This year let’s focus on the Christ Child and remember the true meaning of the holiday season. As we turn our eyes to the Babe in the manger, we will not view Christmas as a dreaded obligation or a major retail event. It will be a time of joyous celebration, honoring the One Who came to give us eternal life and worshipping our Heavenly Father.
Award winners at CAF Player of the year 2024 award night How Ademola Lookman won the African Footballer of the Year award and became a pride of Nigeria. “Just over four years ago, I failed in front of the world. Fast forward four years, I’m the best player in Africa.” Ademola Lookman #CAFAwards2024 Me: A […]
On your wedding day, I’m sure you pictured a future filled with love, laughter, and that soft glow you get when you’re with someone who just “gets” you. Your own man. Your best friend. Your ride or die. Fast forward to a few years, and you feel more like you’re splitting rent with a friendly …
Mike Genung
In a time when 75% of youth are leaving the church, it is critical that we reach out to our youth, listen to what they have to say, and equip them for the battles they are facing. In this first of two broadcasts, Rebekah Genung, Read More
Ray Oster
Explore Angela Johnson-Neely’s vision of Unity Through Music in her latest single Cruisin'. Read her exclusive interview!
When wise women are dating, they don’t just look out for men who would make good husbands; they also want men who would make good fathers. That’s if they want kids. These days, more and more women are choosing not to have children. However, for women who want to start a family, finding a partner …
