Daily News, Podcasts and More

Panhandle Scanner News

PUBLIC RECORD March 31, 2026

Arrests, Court Lists, Jail Rosters and more from throughout the State of Nebraska.

by Panhandle Scanner March 31, 2026March 31, 2026

Panhandle Scanner News

Tuesday March 31 2026 – Scanner News

The Kimball I-80 exit is under prolonged construction, and County Road P near Minatare will be closed for weeks. Meanwhile, the Sidney School District conducted safety training with local emergency responders following a swatting incident. Additionally, a motorcycle accident attributed…

by Panhandle Scanner March 31, 2026March 31, 2026

Bible Studies

Why Does the Resurrection Matter?

Lots of people have died on lots of crosses, but there is only One who rose from the dead, ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father.

by Andi Hale March 31, 2026March 29, 2026

Cattleman's Corner

Becoming a Guest on Cattlemans Corner Radio

Cattleman’s Corner, broadcasting since 1997, connects cattle producers and beef enthusiasts across the U.S. Offers include free interviews for producers and the listing of sale events. Upcoming sales include Dusty Prairie Ranch and Circle S Gelbvieh on April 4th. For…

by Brian Hale March 31, 2026March 31, 2026

Harvest USA Report

Harvesting in 1777

(MOUNT VERNON) — In 1777, George Washington was not only leading a new nation, he was also farming. At Mount Vernon, Washington grew wheat and helped promote it as a staple crop in early American agriculture. Wheat was essential to…

by Digging Deeper March 31, 2026March 31, 2026

Panhandle Scanner News

Nebraska State Patrol Arrests Driver After Chase

(LEXINGTON, Neb.) — Nebraska State Patrol arrested a Colorado man after a high-speed chase on I-80, charging him with multiple offenses including reckless driving.

by Panhandle Scanner March 30, 2026March 31, 2026

Panhandle Scanner News

PUBLIC RECORD March 30, 2026

Arrests, Court Lists, Jail Rosters and more from throughout the State of Nebraska.

by Panhandle Scanner March 30, 2026March 30, 2026

Panhandle Scanner News

Monday March 30 2026 – Scanner News

(BAYARD, Neb.) — Bayard Community Foundation Established, Bayard Structure Fire, Large Burn Pit Fire Reported and more on today’s scanneer news.

by Panhandle Scanner March 30, 2026March 30, 2026

Bible Studies

Did the Resurrection Really Happen?

The disciples did not just believe Jesus rose from the dead; they claimed to actually be eyewitnesses of His resurrection.

by Andi Hale March 30, 2026March 29, 2026

Cattleman's Corner

Harrison Nebraska Angus Bull Sale

(HARRISON, Neb.) — Grays Angus Ranch in Harrison, Nebraska, is hosting their 2nd Century Bull Sale. They feature Gelbvieh and Balancer cattle known for maternal advantages. Rod Gray announced a donation of a registered heifer to support the Sandhills Fire…

by Brian Hale March 30, 2026March 30, 2026

Harvest USA Report

Made in the USA Label

The Harvest USA Report shares intriguing facts about honeybees and announces job applications for the 2026 Van Driesten Harvesting summer program, seeking a truck driver. It emphasizes the significance of American-made products and the faith involved in farming, highlighting the…

by Brian Hale March 30, 2026March 31, 2026

Panhandle Scanner News

Bayard Community Foundation Launches

(BAYARD, Neb.) — The Bayard Community Foundation has been established to uplift the community, accepting donations and inviting Founding Supporters for future initiatives.

by Panhandle Scanner March 29, 2026March 29, 2026

cattlemanscorner

“Late March 2026” and “Tribulation Grazing” – Homegrown Ep. #1189

The post reflects on “Late March 2026,” revisiting themes and ideas from “Tribulation Grazin.” It presents insights and perspectives that offer a deeper understanding of the original work while exploring its relevance and impact in the current context. The reflections…

by Brian Hale March 28, 2026March 28, 2026

humor

“Book Learning” – Homegrown Ep. #1188

This post reflects on the beginning of the calving season and features a poem called “Book Learning” by R.P. It captures the significance of early experiences in agriculture while intertwining literary expression to enhance appreciation of the farming life.

by Brian Hale March 28, 2026March 28, 2026

Fire & Rescue

The Ashby Evacuation Order

In Ashby, Nebraska, a local family faced terrifying wildfires with no evacuation order. As the flames approached, they hurried to alert neighbors and evacuate animals. Amidst panic and heartache, they worked to preserve essentials. Although the fire has been contained,…

by Panhandle Scanner March 27, 2026March 27, 2026

Missing Persons

MISSING: Steven Sanches

(ROCK SPRINGS. Wyo.) — 29-year-old Steven Sanches has been missing in Rock Springs, Wyoming since February 5, 2026.

by Panhandle Scanner March 27, 2026March 27, 2026

Panhandle Scanner News

PUBLIC RECORD March 27, 2026

Arrests, Court Lists, Jail Rosters and more from throughout the State of Nebraska.

by Panhandle Scanner March 27, 2026

Panhandle Scanner News

Friday March 27 2026 – Scanner News

(ALLIANCE, Neb.) — Two Feathers Bueno was sentenced to 14 to 21 years in prison for multiple felony convictions related to child exploitation, including possession of child sexual abuse material and third-degree sexual assault of a child. Meanwhile, efforts continue…

by Panhandle Scanner March 27, 2026March 27, 2026

Bible Studies

God Was with Joseph

Blessings aren’t always the good things in good times. Certain blessings can only come in the midst of our suffering.

by Andi Hale March 27, 2026March 26, 2026

Panhandle Scanner News

Sentenced for Child Exploitation

(ALLIANCE, Neb.) — Alliance Police Department announced that Toofeathers Bueno was sentenced to 14-21 years for child exploitation offenses, including possession of abuse material and sexual assault.

by Panhandle Scanner March 27, 2026March 27, 2026

Harvest USA Report

Harvest World Updates

The agricultural landscape is bustling, with Sanders Harvesting busy hauling cement blocks and Kylie Massingale promoting Kansas Corn at a state celebration. Despite agriculture exports reaching $170.5 billion in 2025, farmers’ share of food dollar spending has decreased. Recovery efforts…

by Brian Hale March 27, 2026March 27, 2026

Cattleman's Corner

Gray’s Angus Ranch is Donating a Heifer

Rod Gray of Gray’s Angus Ranch discusses a heifer donation to support the Sandhills Fire Relief Fund through a unique auction. The event, occurring on March 30th at Windy Acres Sale Barn, will auction the heifer multiple times, expecting to…

by Brian Hale March 27, 2026March 27, 2026

Panhandle Scanner News

PUBLIC RECORD March 26, 2026

Arrests, Court Lists, Jail Rosters and more from throughout the State of Nebraska.

by Panhandle Scanner March 26, 2026March 27, 2026

Fire & Rescue

Thursday March 26 2026 – Scanner News

(ASHBY, Neb.) — This morning, an active fire in Ashby, Nebraska has prompted evacuations and road closures on Highway 2 and Highway 61. Additionally, a vehicle rollover accident near Minatare resulted in minor injuries. Fortunately, Nebraska’s largest historical fire is…

by Panhandle Scanner March 26, 2026March 26, 2026

Bible Studies

When We Don’t Understand

We won’t solve the problem of why a good God allows suffering, nor will we fully understand God’s sovereignty.

by Andi Hale March 26, 2026March 25, 2026

Cattleman's Corner

Cattleman’s Corner Sale Calendar

CattlemansCorner.com provides a convenient platform to access information on upcoming bull sales and listen to interviews with producers, enhancing the experience for those interested in the cattle industry.

by Brian Hale March 26, 2026March 27, 2026

Harvest USA Report

Refer a Family to Farm Rescue

Farm Rescue supports farm families in need by providing assistance with planting, harvesting, or livestock care. Founded in 2005 by Bill Gross, the organization has helped over 1,100 families. Gross, unable to continue his family’s farming legacy due to financial…

by Brian Hale March 26, 2026March 27, 2026

Panhandle Scanner News

PUBLIC RECORD March 25, 2026

Arrests, Court Lists, Jail Rosters and more from throughout the State of Nebraska.

by Panhandle Scanner March 25, 2026

Bible Studies

Favoritism and Jealousy

The beauty of Joseph’s story is that in the midst of favoritism, jealousy, and anger, God is working out His purposes.

by Andi Hale March 25, 2026

Panhandle Scanner News

Wednesday March 25 2026 – Scanner News

This morning at 9 am mountain time, a statewide tornado drill will occur to test emergency systems. Residents are reminded to update emergency apps and 911 profiles. A statewide burn ban is ongoing. Banner County received a new ambulance, enhancing…

by Brian Hale March 25, 2026March 27, 2026

Harvest USA Report

Upcoming Cowboy Poetry Gathering

David Woodruff is co-hosting a discussion with Howard Winberg about the upcoming Cowboy Poetry event scheduled for March 28th. David is significantly involved in the event, inviting listeners to tune in to their conversation.

by Brian Hale March 25, 2026March 27, 2026

Cattleman's Corner

Anticipating Huge Death Loss

In an article by Angie Denton in Drovers, a local rancher discusses the expected death loss resulting from the devastating Morrill Fire in Nebraska. The piece highlights the significant impact of the wildfire on livestock and the ranching community. Listen…

by Brian Hale March 25, 2026March 27, 2026

Panhandle Scanner News

PUBLIC RECORD March 24, 2026

Arrests, Court Lists, Jail Rosters and more from throughout the State of Nebraska.

by Panhandle Scanner March 24, 2026

Cattleman's Corner

Upcoming Gelbvieh Sales

Upcoming Gelbvieh sales include two on March 28th: the Genetic Progress Sale from Cranview Gelbvieh in Rugby, North Dakota, and a sale by Wilkinson Gelbvieh in Model, Colorado. Additionally, Knoll Crest Farm will hold a spring bull and female sale…

by Brian Hale March 24, 2026March 27, 2026

Panhandle Scanner News

Tuesday March 24 2026 – Scanner News

Gering residents should be aware of police training exercises today from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., which may produce loud noises and simulated gunfire, particularly affecting the Meadows subdivision. Furthermore, a statewide burn ban requires permits for certain outdoor fires,…

by Panhandle Scanner March 24, 2026March 24, 2026

Bible Studies

Remembered

While it’s good to wait on God for the things we long for, how we wait on Him is just as important.

by Andi Hale March 24, 2026March 23, 2026

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Josh says:

December 10, 2023 at 8:52 pm

Can you possibly add any rentals as I check and read your page daily and am struggling to not be homeless in scottsbluff or if you happen to know of any rentals that won’t cost to much to do an application thanks and God bless

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Tuesday March 31 2026 - Scanner News - Panhandle Scanner News

Kimball I-80 exit is still under construction and will be for quite some time, and the road outside of Minatare, that's County Road P that links to 79E link, will be closed for several weeks. That's the road that leaves Minatare to the south, that will be closed for the next few weeks. Yesterday, the Sidney School District partnered with local law enforcement and emergency responders for a full day of safety training following the swatting call incident you may remember on March 2nd. Sydney Schools writes that they have a strong sense of urgency to work closely with local first responders to expand their knowledge and deepen their understanding of area safety protocols as they apply to school emergencies. Local first responders worked alongside teachers, staff and administrators walking through a variety of scenarios that schools across the country may face, and discussed how to respond effectively in each situation. For those not familiar with what swatting is, it's the action or practice of making a prank call to emergency services and an attempt to bring about the dispatch of a large number of armed police officers to a particular address. For more information on the Sidney response and swatting in general, see our news page at Panhandle Scanner. There was a motorcycle accident on Sunday at the monument in Gering that happened on Summit Road right before tunnel number one. We heard from the victim and received a photo of the large pothole in the road that the gentleman hit before crashing. He informed us that authorities were told about the pothole and were aware of it, and he reported to us that other motorcycles have crashed there as well. We're hoping that pothole on Summit Road gets fixed soon. If you're a motorcycle rider, please use caution while driving the monument road.

Chaos on the Airwaves: Multi-Scene Emergency Dispatch - SCANNER TRAFFIC

(PANHANDLE OF NEBRASKA) -- This episode follows a frantic day of emergency dispatches on Saturday, March 21, 2026 covering highway incidents, vehicle crashes, a serious motorcycle injury with CPR performed on scene, reports of grass fires and carbon monoxide alarms, and multiple traffic stops involving impaired or reckless drivers. Listeners get a raw, real-time look at how responders coordinate resources, manage evolving scenes, and handle follow-ups and civilian interactions across multiple jurisdictions. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Why Does the Resurrection Matter? (He is Risen) - Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

The crucifixion of Jesus was a very important historical event. We usually hear more about the cross than the empty tomb in the church world, leaving the resurrection for Easter. But the resurrection is not just an Easter message; it lies at the heart of Christianity, even in one sense eclipsing the significance of the cross. For without the resurrection, the crucifixion was just an execution. Lots of people have died on lots of crosses, but there is only One who rose from the dead, ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. The Apostle Paul said; And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins! Then also those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable -1 Corinthians 15:17–19 NKJV That means if Christ didn’t rise, all the things we’ve done wrong would keep us separated from God forever, and if that is the case, we are to be pitied. Paul didn’t say if Jesus didn’t rise from the dead, Christianity is still a good religion that will make you a better person, instill good morals, and make your life a little better. He said if Jesus didn’t rise from the dead, then this whole thing is a lie, everything we are doing is for nothing, and believers are the biggest fools in the world. Some scholars and preachers try to sound rational or intelligent and say maybe the resurrection wasn’t literal and physical. Perhaps it was a metaphor for something or just a spiritual resurrection. But if Jesus didn’t rise from the dead, then He was not who He claimed to be. If He didn’t rise from the dead, there’s nothing He can do for you: He can’t save you, He can’t forgive you, He can’t wash your sins away, and He can’t heal you… If He didn’t rise from the dead, then He’s just another dead guy. The good news is Christ did rise from the dead, and that changes everything!

Delicate Not Fragile (Seeing Beautiful Again) - Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

As we end our time together, I want to share a powerful picture God showed me when I was walking through one of the most difficult seasons of my life. I’m not really a “see some sort of vision” kind of girl. So at first, I thought it was just my imagination wandering off for a minute. But then I felt an impression on my heart that this really was from God. What I saw inside my mind was a beautiful flower made from paper-thin glass. I looked at it from all sides and admired the way it was formed. Then I saw a hand reaching out and wrapping itself around the glass flower. But as the hand closed around it, the glass popped and shattered. The glass was delicately beautiful but too fragile to be worked with. Next, I saw the same flower formed out of shiny metal. The hand reached out and wrapped itself around the flower and held it for a few seconds. But then once again the hand closed around it. Only this time nothing happened to the flower. It didn’t change in any way. And I could tell the harder the hand-pressed, the more pain the steel flower was causing the hand. The steel was strong but not moldable. The metal flower was too hard to give way to the hand’s desired working. But the last time I saw the same flower, it was made from a white clay. Every detail was the same except now when the hand reached out and closed around it, the flower moved with the hand. The clay squeezed and moved between the hand’s fingers. The hand-worked with the clay until an even more beautiful flower emerged. As I asked God about these flowers, I felt the Lord say to my heart, Lysa, I want you to be delicate, but I don’t want you to be fragile. If you’re like that piece of glass, when I press into you and try to make you something new, you’ll just shatter. I also want you to be strong, but I don’t want you to be unmoldable. That steel flower will always just be a steel flower. No matter how hard My hand presses, I can’t make something new from something so hard. You’re already beautiful, but if you’ll surrender to My shaping, I can do a new and beautiful work in you. I cried as I finally began to understand. Blessed is the one who fears the Lord always, but whoever hardens his heart will fall into calamity. – Proverbs 28:14 ESV God wanted me to be like clay. The white clay flower was delicately beautiful but not too fragile. It was strong enough to hold its shape but soft enough to allow the hand to reshape it as needed. And in the end, the clay flower wound up being the most beautifully shaped of them all. It gives a whole new meaning to one of my favorite verses found in Isaiah 64:8: “You, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.” Oh, friend, God isn’t ever going to forsake us, but He will go to great lengths to remake us. We don’t have to be afraid of how He’s going to shape our lives. He is the God who somehow makes everything beautiful in its time. But seeing the beauty in life again will require us to stay moldable by Him. And it’s only in trusting the gentle but powerful hands of the Potter and allowing Him to remold and remake us that our hurts are able to be shaped into something beautiful. RESPOND: Which kind of flower would you say you are most like right now – glass, metal, or clay? Look back at the attributes of God you wrote down yesterday. How can remembering those truths about Him help you keep your heart moldable? That aching pain we feel in the midst of our heartbreak is proof there’s a beautiful remaking already in process … but we can’t give up. Find hope in the midst of the most painful chapters of your story as you read about how Lysa Terkeurst survived her own season of heartbreak in her devotional book, Seeing Beautiful Again. Find out more at SeeingBeautifulAgain.com

Suspicious of God (Seeing Beautiful Again) - Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

Yesterday we talked about trusting God in the midst of both sorrow and celebration. But I think we can all admit that it’s hard not to feel suspicious of God when our circumstances don’t seem to line up with His promises. And it’s difficult not to doubt the light of His truth when everything around us looks dark. That’s why I want us to look at Psalm 57 – a passage penned by David in the midst of a season when his circumstances and God’s promises appear to be in complete and total opposition. Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, till the storms of destruction pass by. I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me. He will send from heaven and save me; he will put to shame him who tramples on me. God will send out his steadfast love and his faithfulness! My soul is in the midst of lions; I lie down amid fiery beasts— the children of man, whose teeth are spears and arrows, whose tongues are sharp swords. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be over all the earth! They set a net for my steps; my soul was bowed down. They dug a pit in my way, but they have fallen into it themselves. My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast! I will sing and make melody! Awake, my glory! Awake, O harp and lyre! I will awake the dawn! I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to you among the nations. For your steadfast love is great to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be over all the earth! -Psalm 57 ESV At this point David had already been anointed as the future king of Israel and had faithfully served King Saul. Sadly, though, Saul “rewarded” David with persecution and death threats. David was left to run for his life and then hide out in a cave. David departed from there and escaped to the cave of Adullam. And when his brothers and all his father’s house heard it, they went down there to him. And everyone who was in distress, and everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was bitter in soul, gathered to him. And he became commander over them. And there were with him about four hundred men. – 1 Samuel 22:1-2 ESV And David wasn’t hiding alone. The four hundred men under David’s leadership were in distress, in debt, and discontented. I wouldn’t judge David for one second if he had cried out to God in utter defeat. But the words he wrote in Psalm 57 are neither exclusively a psalm of lament nor a psalm of thanksgiving. David didn’t deny the darkness of his situation, but he also refused to allow his soul to get stuck in a place of despair. Instead, David chose to declare praises about the true nature and character of God. He reminded his soul of who God is—a God who fulfills His purposes (v. 2), a God who saves (v. 3), a God known for His faithfulness and steadfast love (vv. 2, 10). Even though David’s soul was “bowed down” by his circumstances (v. 6), he allowed what he knew to be true about God to steady him. This enabled David to declare: “My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast! I will sing and make melody!” (v. 7). In a cave that surely felt like an end to all he hoped and dreamed, David acknowledged his distress, but he also lifted his eyes to praise God. David’s praise wasn’t in vain. It steadied his heart. And his painful circumstances weren’t wasted. God used those hardships to mature David. Yes, David had already been anointed to eventually become king. But it was in the womb of the earth where God met him and birthed in him a heart ready to lead. Darkness was the perfect training ground for David’s destiny. And those difficult places we so desperately want to be done with can become good training ground for us as well. But we must decide, will we see our dark times as a womb or a tomb? Will we fix our eyes on the truth of God’s goodness, or will we give in to hopelessness and despair? When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. – Isaiah 43:2 ESV Oh, friend. I know the dark places are scary. But let’s choose to believe there is purpose in every season, even the ones that don’t seem to make any sense. Let’s ask God to birth something new inside of us, allowing Him to do a work in us that will better prepare us to walk out His promises. And instead of being suspicious of Him, let’s lift up our praises to Him. Praise may not shift our circumstances, but it will definitely begin to change our hearts. RESPOND: What have you been fixing your eyes on more recently – the enormity and difficulty of your circumstances or the character of our good and faithful God? Take some time to read through Psalm 57 and Psalm 36. Write out the attributes of God you find that bring your heart peace and hope.

When Joy Seems Unrealistic (Seeing Beautiful Again) - Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

There’s no part of me that wants sorrow to be a part of my story. There isn’t any plan God could present where I would willingly agree to heartbreak and pain. But the longer I walk with the Lord, the more I see what a tragedy that would be. Picking and choosing what gets to be part of my story would keep me from the ultimate good God has in mind. James 1:2–4 reminds us; “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” These words are easy to pull out when our worst issue is the drive-through getting our coffee order wrong. But what about those things that hurt too long? Or disappoint too deeply? Or feel devastatingly permanent? To slap some “we should be joyful about this” verses on top of those hard things feels cruel. Like a bad joke about something excruciatingly painful. That’s why I’m glad these verses don’t say “feel the joy” but instead “consider where some glimpses of joy might be even in the midst of all the hurt.” Our understanding of joy rises and falls on whether we truly trust God in the middle of what our human minds can’t see as good at all. It’s hard. So I like to think of it in terms of baking. Imagine we go to the store to buy all of the ingredients we need to make a cake, but then we feel too tired to mix it all together. Instead, we decide to just enjoy the cake one ingredient at a time. The thing is that sometimes we don’t like some of the individual ingredients, so we’d rather leave them out. The flour is too dry—leave it out. The sugar, butter, and vanilla are all good—leave them in! The eggs are just gross when raw—definitely leave those out! And then our cake would never be made “mature and complete, not lacking anything.” fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. – Hebrews 12:2 NASB1995 We are so quick to judge the quality of our lives and the reliability of God based on individual events, rather than on the eventual good God is working together. We must know that just like the master baker has reasons to allow the flour and eggs in right measure into the recipe, Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, will do the same with dry times and hard times. We can make peace with the fact that sorrow and celebration can coexist together in a heart quite authentically. Mixing them together is part of the recipe of life. We can sit with and tend to all that still needs to be healed and at the same time laugh, plan for great things ahead, and declare this a glorious day. To have both sorrow and celebration in our heart isn’t denial. It’s deeming life a gift—even if it looks nothing like we thought it would right now. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. – Romans 8:28 NASB1995 Our sorrows make our hearts more tender and allow us to grieve. Our celebrations tend to our heart’s need to recognize what is beautiful about our life, get back up, and go on. Let’s embrace the mix of all that’s worthy of celebration while fully allowing sorrow to add what it brings as well—knowing we can trust Jesus’ recipe of purpose in both the pain and joy. RESPOND: What “ingredients” in your life do you wish God would remove? How could God actually be using these things for good? Ask Him to help you see glimpses of joy even in the midst of your pain, and then write down what you see over the next week.

Denying Jesus (Seeing Beautiful Again) - Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

I don’t doubt God is real and that God is good. But I often pray, “God, give me relief from my unbelief.” I pray this when what He allows into my life does not feel good or seem good to me. When we assume we know what a good God would do, and He doesn’t do it? That’s the complicated place where doubts are formed and we can be tempted to distance ourselves from God. I’m reminded of Peter—a man who boldly declared to Jesus, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you” (Mark 14:31), but then found himself doing the exact opposite. While Mark 14 shows us Jesus remaining faithful in the midst of the pain and turmoil of a beloved friend’s betrayal (vv. 43–45) and the high priest’s interrogation (vv. 53–65), we find Peter with faltering faith as he stood waiting in a courtyard (vv. 66–72). Afraid. Cold. Forgetful. Peter soon denied the One who loved him most. Once. Twice. Three times. A rooster’s shrill cry ushered in the shocking realization that the very thing Peter swore he’d never do, he did. And as much as we might want to shake our head at Peter, I think we all know fear, pain, and insecurities really can do a number on the human heart. They certainly did a number on Peter’s, as he watched Jesus, the One he had seen perform miracles, allow Himself to be bound and arrested. Jesus was supposed to be the King who would deliver the Jewish people from the oppression of the Romans. How could this be happening? Peter didn’t realize this was the only way he or anyone else could experience Jesus reigning as King in eternity. So, in a moment of doubt and disappointment, Peter chose to distance himself from Jesus. Distancing himself to the point of complete denial. To deny something is to declare it’s untrue. To deny Jesus is to say with our words, thoughts, or actions that we don’t really believe the truth of who Jesus says He is or what He says He’ll do. How heartbreaking. For us. For Jesus. But before we give in to feelings of shame, let’s look at Luke 22:61–62: “The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: ‘Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.’ And he went outside and wept bitterly.” The look that passed between Jesus and Peter wasn’t one of condemnation. It wasn’t an “I told you so” moment. I believe Jesus’ eyes were filled with compassion for Peter. The same compassion He has for us today. A look that invites us to trust Him and draw near to Him once again. Oh, friend. Let’s ask ourselves where we’re denying Jesus’ truth in our lives. Denying His healing. Denying His redemption and hope. Nothing is beyond the reach of our Jesus. No matter what we’ve done. No matter what the enemy or our life’s circumstances may say. Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. – Romans 8:1 NASB1995 We can draw near to Him today and pray, “Lord, I don’t want to deny Your power just because I’m afraid and I don’t see evidence of You working now. Give me relief from any and all unbelief. And help me watch for evidence of all You are doing, big and small. I don’t have to understand this to trust You with this.” RESPOND: Prayerfully ask the Lord to reveal any places you’ve been denying Jesus and to give you relief from your unbelief. Consider reaching out to a friend to help hold you accountable in these areas of your life.

The Next 86400 Seconds (Seeing Beautiful Again) - Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

Part of what makes healing so hard is the deep ache left behind after the trauma. Loss envelops us with a grief that comes in unpredictable waves. It’s hard to know if you’re getting better when a string of good days suddenly gives way to an unexpected emotional crash. It’s in those moments where I find myself whispering… Am I going to feel like this forever? Is it always going to hurt this much? I want healing to be as neat and predictable as a checklist. I don’t want to be inconvenienced by it, and I most certainly don’t want to be caught off guard by the emotions that can go along with it. But of course, if you’ve ever had to heal from having your heart broken in excruciating ways, you know you can’t schedule healing. You can’t hurry it up. And you can’t control how and when it will want to be tended to. Trust me when I say I understand all of these feelings. I know what it’s like to wish someone would please just tell you how in the world you’re supposed to make it through all 86,400 seconds of the day when you’re in so much pain. But I’ve discovered those days where a fresh wave of tears hit us all over again don’t have to be setbacks. They can be evidence we’re moving through the hardest parts of healing. The new tears over old wounds are proof we’re processing the grief and wrestling well with the ache in our soul. Feeling the pain is the first step toward healing the pain. And all those emotions that keep bubbling up and unexpectedly spilling out? They’re evidence you aren’t dead inside. There’s life under the surface. And while feelings shouldn’t be dictators of how we live, they are great indicators of what still needs to be worked through. When we love deeply, we hurt deeply. This is why we have to learn how to trust the process of healing. We have to let it ebb and flow around, in, and through us. We have to grant it access to our heart. And when we start to see healing as unfolding layers of unexpected strength and richly revealed wisdom, it doesn’t feel so unfair. It starts to feel like a secret wisdom God is whispering into the depth of our soul. Psalm 34:18 – The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Then one day we realize the future feels stunningly appealing. Not because circumstances have changed but because we have embraced reality, released control, and found this healed version of ourselves is what we’d been looking for all along. I don’t know what kind of pain or heartbreak you may be processing right now. But I do want to point you toward the hope found in 1 Peter 5:10: “The God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” I’m praying this week reminds you that our God is a God of restoration. And all that aching within you is proof there’s a beautiful remaking in process. Don’t give up, friend. God loves you. You are not alone. Healing is possible. RESPOND: Have you ever walked through a long season of suffering that actually resulted in God building a strength in you that you never expected to have? How might He be strengthening you right now in the midst of that hard situation? Spend some time journaling about this today.

When You Feel Overwhelmed (Tame Your Thoughts) - Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

From Tame Your Thoughts by Max Lucado on YouVersion Giant-sized challenges are won not with bigger biceps but with better thought management. Your mindset is your most valuable tool. It’s time to screen thoughts, interrupt thoughts, extract and replace thoughts. And I know just the fellow to help us. God called him “a man after my own heart” in Acts 13:22. Such words were never said about Abraham or Moses. Paul was called an apostle; John was called “beloved”—but never “a man after God’s own heart.” God crowned only David with this title. Why? What was unique about this son of Jesse? A case can be made for this answer. He made this six-word motto his mantra: “The battle belongs to the LORD” (1 Samuel 17:47). 1 Peter 5:8 ESV Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. What giant seeks to liposuction the life out of your life? Does he come in the form of a disease? Is he wearing the garb of debt? Or defeat, one put-down after another? Is it time for you to use some thought management tools? Psalm 34:17-20 ESV When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all. He keeps all his bones; not one of them is broken. David resolved to shift his gaze away from the mess that surrounded him and focus on the God who sustained him. He meditated on God’s works. Maybe he made a list of miracles. Counted his blessings. Recalled God’s goodness. He took thoughts of death captive and replaced them with thoughts of life. Negative thoughts lead to negative feelings. Thoughts of faith create feelings of hope. Be God-minded! Meditate on him. Prayer Father in Heaven, bring me peace when I am overwhelmed. Thank you for hearing my cries no matter where I am or what overwhelming giant I am facing. In Jesus’ name, amen.

When You Can't Find Joy (Tame Your Thoughts) - Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

From Tame Your Thoughts by Max Lucado on YouVersion Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. The joy Jesus offers is unlike the one promised at the car dealership or shopping mall. He is not interested in a joy that depends upon circumstance. Did his joy hinge on the approval of others? No, even his family didn’t believe in him. Did his joy depend upon possessions? He didn’t even have a place to lay his head. Was his joy based on the loyalty of people? Peter denied him. Judas betrayed him. The Romans murdered him. Yet, “for the joy set before him he endured the cross”. Jesus enjoyed a resilient joy. What about you? Have you buried a dream? Have you buried a marriage? Buried a friend? As you look at these burial plots of life, is your joy buried there as well? If so, you may have anchored your vessel of joy to the wrong place. During my single years, I lived on a houseboat that was docked on the Miami River. The water level would rise and fall with the tide. The boat would rock back and forth with the river traffic. But though the river changed and the boat rocked, we never drifted. The boat was anchored to a concrete wall. Courageously joyful people have done something similar. They have tethered their hearts to the foundation of God. Is that to say your life will be storm-free? No. “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12 ESV). Is that to say no sorrow will come your way? No. “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33 NIV). Is that to say you will never cross the drylands of sorrow? No. But that is to say your sorrow will not last forever. “Your sorrow will be turned into joy” (John 16:20b NKJV). The boat will rock. Moods will come and go. But will you be left adrift on the Atlantic of despair? No, for you have found a joy that remains courageous through the storm. Prayer Father in Heaven, Help me anchor my soul in Jesus and find complete joy. Thank you for your constant guidance. In Jesus’ name, amen.

A New Way of Thinking (Tame Your Thoughts) - Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

How does the Spirit of God change us? He enrolls us in the University of Godly Thought. Little by little, day by day, year by year, he creates a new person! We learn to: Take thoughts captive Test each message against the truth of Scripture Interrupt poisonous thought threads before they infect us Think and act like Jesus Does this appeal to you? More faith, less fear? More grace, less guilt? More love, less lust? More security, less insecurity? It is yours for the asking. Ephesians 4:22-24 ESV put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Remember who you are! You aren’t just anyone; you are a covenant partner with God, a full-fledged member of his kingdom development program. “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” (1 Peter 2:9 ESV). God has pledged to remake you by changing the way you think. He has equipped you to tame your thoughts. Being a disciple comes down to letting God change the way we live by changing the way we think. Good actions follow good thoughts. Behavior takes its cue from beliefs. If our belief is wrong, our behavior will be wrong. But, if our belief is godly, our behavior will be godly. Let God lead you. Pray specific prayers about your specific thought patterns. Identify the tendencies that steal your joy and pilfer your peace. Take them to Christ like you would take a broken chair to a carpenter. “Can you please fix this?” Psalm 139:23-24 ESV Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting! Christ has a grand dream for you, my friend. He is shaping you into an image of one worthy of walking the streets of heaven. And it all begins with a simple choice: Tame your thoughts; think about what you think about. I hope you will. Prayer Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for giving me the ability to retrain my brain. Thank you for equipping me to tame my thoughts and change my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

When You Battle Anxiety (Tame Your Thoughts) - Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

Sometimes God calms the storm. He excises the malignant cancer, transfers the cranky boss, replenishes the diminishing funds. The breath of heaven blows, the clouds scatter, and the winter sky becomes a springtime blue. Sometimes he calms the storm. Other times, however, he chooses to calm the child. “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7 Rather than quiet the tempest, he stills the sailor. Rather than remove the disease, he removes the fear. Rather than lift the debt, he lifts the doubt. The storm still brews, the wind still blows, but the child no longer frets; he trusts. He may even snooze. Matthew 6:27 ESV And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? Anxiety happens when we think the world is spinning out of control. The untruth deceives us into believing that the problem has no solution. The consequential false narrative says, “My life is nothing but a maelstrom of messes.” An overreaction chimes in with a Chicken Little squawk of, “The sky is falling! The sky is falling!” Be on the alert for this downward spiral. Disarm these thoughts the moment they begin to grouse. Rather than heed them, heed him. Anxiety is calmed when we talk to the one in charge. No storm ever hit harder than the one that raged through Gethsemane’s garden. And no prayer was ever prayed with more passion than the one Jesus prayed on the eve of his death. “Can you calm the storm?” Jesus asked. God did for Moses. God did for Daniel. God would do so for Paul and Silas. Could he not do the same for his own Son? Of course he could. But he chose not to. The cross was part of God’s plan to redeem his children. God did not calm the storm. But our Father calmed his Son. And Jesus marched to Calvary in peace. A heaven-sent, illogical, stare-death-in-the-face-with-a-smile peace. Philippians 4:4-8 ESV Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. I pray God calms your storm. If he does not, may he calm you. And may you find the “peace of God, which surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7 ESV). Prayer Dear God, You have promised perfect peace to those who focus on you. When I battle anxiety, help me keep my thoughts on you. Help me uproot the weed of anxiety and replant with your joy.

Whispered Prayers (Faith in the Dark) - Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

From Faith In The Dark on YouVersion O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice; in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you and watch. – Psalm 5:3 ESV Nicodemus opened his mouth and said one word: “Rabbi.” It wasn’t loud. It wasn’t a sermon. It wasn’t even a clear confession of faith. But it was something. That one word held more than syllables—it held longing. It said: “I see something in You.” “I’m not sure who You are… but I want to know.” “I’m here, even if I’m afraid.” Sometimes, that’s all we can offer. Not a polished prayer. Not a perfect performance. Just a whisper. A sigh. A name. But here’s the grace: Jesus hears whispered prayers just as clearly as shouted ones. He’s not waiting for volume. He’s listening for sincerity. Before they call I will answer; while they are yet speaking I will hear. – Isaiah 65:24 ESV We don’t need the right words—we need a real heart. Nicodemus came at night, in quiet curiosity, and Jesus still welcomed him into a profound conversation about truth, rebirth, and eternal life. Maybe you’ve been quiet lately. Maybe your prayers are broken, halting, or hesitant. That’s okay. The heart behind your whisper holds more power than you think. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. – Psalm 34:18 ESV God isn’t moved by spiritual performance—He’s moved by faith. Even when it feels small. Even when it sounds like barely more than a breath. One word is enough when it’s honest. One whisper can open the door to revelation. So speak. Or sigh. Or simply show up in silence. Because even whispered prayers carry the full attention of heaven. Ask Yourself What has been your most honest, unfiltered prayer lately? Write it again—without editing. Whisper it again—without shame. Let’s pray together Jesus, You hear the words I never say out loud. You see the thoughts I barely know how to form. Thank You for listening, even when I’m hesitant… even when I’m hurting… even when all I can say is, “Help.” Let my whispered prayers rise to You like incense. Let Your peace whisper back. Amen.

Connect with God and Others (Overcoming Hurt) - Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

A crucial step in seeking healing from emotional pain, whether from big W or little w wounds and lies from the Enemy, is seeking connection. No matter what you faced in the past or are facing now, you are not alone. You were not meant to be alone. You were made to thrive, created in the likeness of God with infinite worth, designed for healthy connection with Him and others. You were designed to experience the assurance of safety, to know that everything will be okay. Psalm 147:3 ESV He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. We need Jesus’ divine power to restore us. He knows exactly what we need. Talk to Jesus about what you experienced. Ask Him for His comfort. Ask Him for His healing. He cares so much about you. Healing is a process. It takes time, but I want you to know that Jesus can heal you from hurt. He’s done it in my life, and I am convinced He can do it in yours, as well. We are hurt in relationships, and we heal in relationships. Wounds are caused by things people have said and done to us, or by not receiving the things we needed from people. For example, sometimes wounds are caused because people did not encourage or accept us. We need new experiences with people who will accept us, love us, affirm us, be there for us, show up for us, and demonstrate the love that God has for us in Christ. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 ESV Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Let me encourage you to share the losses and pain you are experiencing with safe people. Interacting with others releases dopamine and oxytocin in our brains, leading to a sense of connection and satisfaction. It also affirms the reality that we are not alone, that we are understood. Text or FaceTime a friend or loved one. Go for a walk with someone you know. Schedule a meeting with a therapist, coach, or mentor. Ask professionals for advice on how to find safe people. Ask God to send the right people and resources your way. Proverbs 27:17 ESV Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. Remember, we need one another. We are part of the body of Christ, and are meant to help one another (1 Corinthians 12:25–27). Hebrews 10:25 instructs us to “not neglect meeting together,” because of how important relational and spiritual connection is for each of us. God, You made us for relationship with You, ourselves, and others. Help me to connect with safe people.