Peace Over Perfection | Christian podcast | Devotional | Scripture, Biblical Encouragement, Bible Verses for Anxiety, Biblical Application | Trusting God

38 Episodes

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37 | Have You Gotten Too Comfortable With the Gospel?

2026-03-1713:52

In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about what happens when the most important news in the world—Jesus dying on the cross for our sins and rising again—starts to feel routine, and how to let God restore your awe for the gospel. We’ll also walk through simple, practical ways to share that good news with others without feeling fake, forced, or afraid. You’ll learn: Why our hearts get desensitized to the cross (and how to recognize it). How remembering what you were rescued from changes how you see everyday life. A simple way to personalize John 3:16 so it hits your heart again, not just your head. Why sharing the gospel feels so awkward—and what Scripture says about that. Practical, natural ways to share your story and point people to Jesus without a “perfect speech.” How living with quiet, steady faith can open doors for gospel conversations. This episode is for you if: You love Jesus but feel a little “numb” to the cross lately. You want fresh gratitude for your salvation as Easter approaches. You feel intimidated by evangelism but don’t want to stay silent anymore. You’re ready to remember that the gospel really is the power of God for salvation—and let that truth bring you peace. 📚 Resources Mentioned Easter Passover Message about the Crucifiction of Jesus 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront (including my favorite study bibles) 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 📱 YouVersion Bible App 🖥️ The Bible Recap Information 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

36 | People Pleasing vs Pleasing God: Breaking Free from the Fear of What Others Think

2026-03-1011:01

Do you ever feel like your worth rises and falls with what other people think of you? If you’re worn out from trying to keep everyone happy, this episode will help you recognize people pleasing for what it is, understand why it shows up, and learn how to start living for God’s approval instead of everyone else’s. You’ll learn: What people pleasing really looks like in everyday life (beyond just “being helpful”). Why Scripture calls fear of what others think a “snare” and how it traps our hearts. How people pleasing stretches you past what God’s actually called you to and crowds out His best. What the Bible says about God’s approval, your worth, and who you really answer to. Practical ways to pause, check your “why,” and start making decisions with God—not everyone else—as your first filter. This isn’t about becoming harsh or uncaring. It’s about learning to let God search your motives, finding the courage to say a healthier yes (or a needed no), and resting in the freedom that you are already fully approved in Christ. 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront (including my favorite study bibles) 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 📱 YouVersion Bible App 🖥️ The Bible Recap Information 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

35 | How to Start Studying Your Bible Without Being Overwhelmed

2026-03-0313:53

Have you ever seen someone’s perfectly highlighted, colorful Bible on social media and then opened yours and thought, “Where do I even start?” In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about how to study your Bible for yourself without feeling like you’re doing it wrong, without needing a color‑coded system, and without having to be a Bible scholar. We’ll talk about why your Bible doesn’t have to be pretty to be powerful, where to start reading, and simple ways to build a real relationship with God through His Word—right where you are. You’ll hear about: Why your Bible doesn’t have to be pretty or organized to count—messy notes are okay How I use spiral‑bound Bibles for study and a separate Bible for church Why the Bible is for us but ultimately about God—His character, His heart, and what He cares about Where I recommend starting if you’ve never read the Bible all the way through (Gospels, Acts, James, then a chronological plan) How The Bible Recap and a good study Bible can help you understand what you’re reading How the YouVersion Bible App and audio Bible can fit into your routine, and why a printed Bible is still helpful for deeper study Why topical Bible studies have their place, but shouldn’t replace actually reading Scripture for yourself A simple way to begin: choosing a translation, picking a time of day, reading a small amount, and asking what the passage shows you about God This episode is meant to take the pressure off and help you just start—reading the Bible you already have, with the Holy Spirit as your guide, and letting God grow your relationship with Him as you go. 📚 Resources Mentioned Information about how to optimize your health 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront (including my favorite study bibles) 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 📱 YouVersion Bible App 🖥️ The Bible Recap Information 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

34 | Am I Really Going to Heaven? How the Bible Says We Can Know

2026-02-2416:41

Do you ever lie awake and quietly wonder, “Am I really going to heaven… and how can I know for sure?” In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about what the Bible actually says about who goes to heaven—not based on vague hope, being a “good person,” or checking church boxes, but on the finished work of Jesus. This conversation was deeply personal for me as I walked with my mom through her final days and watched how God’s Word brought her real peace about eternity. You’ll learn: What doesn’t get you into heaven (and why things like church attendance and “being good” can’t save you). What the Bible says does save us: salvation by grace through faith in Jesus alone, not by works. Why Matthew 7’s “Depart from me, I never knew you” is actually a warning about misplaced confidence in our own spiritual performance. How the thief on the cross shows the simplicity and power of genuine saving faith at the very end of a broken life. Why a loving God allows people to reject Him—and how that connects to heaven, hell, and real choice. How you can have assurance that you are saved and can’t “lose” your salvation if you have truly trusted Christ. This isn’t meant to scare you or make you question everything. It’s an invitation to rest in what Jesus has already done and to know, from Scripture, where you stand with God. 📚 Resources Mentioned Information about how to optimize your health 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

33 | Letting Jesus Take Over the House: Are You Treating Him Like a Guest or the Owner?

2026-02-1710:00

We talk a lot about “inviting Jesus into our hearts,” but it’s possible to say the words and still keep Him at arm’s length. Maybe you’re grateful He’s there, you love Him, you talk to Him—but you still feel like you’re the one managing the rooms, setting the rules, and deciding what He can and can’t touch. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re getting really honest about the quiet ways we treat God like a respected guest instead of the rightful Owner of our lives. We’ll talk about what it means to move from “You’re welcome to visit” faith to “This is Your house, Lord” surrender—and how that shift can bring peace into your schedule, your decisions, your thought life, and the parts of your story you’d rather keep shut away. We’ll look at: What it really means to confess Jesus as Lord, not just Savior—and why that changes who “owns the house” of your heart. How Scriptures like Romans 10:9, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Ezekiel 36:26, and Proverbs 3:5–6 show that God doesn’t just decorate your life; He transforms it from the inside out. Why keeping certain “rooms” off-limits to God doesn’t protect you from shame—it keeps you from healing and peace. Everyday moments (texts, interruptions, spare minutes, stressful emails) where you can pause and ask, “Lord, what do You want here?” instead of defaulting to people-pleasing or numbing out. A simple, fill-in-the-blank prayer and tiny action step to help you surrender one specific area of your life to Jesus this week. Friend, Jesus isn’t asking for a tidy corner of your life once a week. He wants every key, every room, every decision—because that’s where real transformation and deep, steady peace begin. 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

32 | Cast Your Anxiety on God: How to Stop Carrying What God Never Asked You To Hold

2026-02-1008:40

Do you ever feel like your brain has 47 tabs open—and somehow anxiety is running all of them? In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about what to do with the worries that won’t let you go and the “what if” spirals that steal your peace. In “Cast Your Anxiety on God: How to Stop Carrying What God Never Asked You To Hold,” we’ll look at the invisible backpack of anxiety so many of us carry and what Scripture actually tells us to do with it. You’ll hear a real-life story of a weekend ruined by worry, why our shoulders were never meant to carry God-sized loads, and how the enemy uses “what ifs” to distract us from the life God has for us right now. You’ll learn: Why staying worried can feel “responsible” but silently drains your peace and energy. What 1 Peter 5:7 really means when it says to cast your anxiety on God (not manage or organize it). A simple “physical handoff” practice you can use anytime anxiety starts to spiral—yes, even at 2 a.m. How to stop letting anxious thoughts move in, unpack, and decorate the living room of your mind. Encouraging questions to help you recognize when you’re carrying what God has already invited you to release. This isn’t about pretending you’re never anxious again. It’s about learning how to take off the invisible backpack, hand it to the God who cares for you, and walk a little lighter—one “mental handoff” at a time. 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

31 | Why Worry Isn’t Just Fear — It’s Pride

2026-02-0311:31

Do you ever feel completely worn out by worry and anxiety—even when nothing has actually happened yet? That exhaustion isn’t random. Worry feels heavy because it is heavy. And the reason it weighs us down so much is because it was never meant to be carried by us in the first place. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about the uncomfortable but biblical truth that worry often comes from our need to stay in control. When we worry, we’re not just afraid—we’re trying to handle things in our own strength instead of trusting God to do what only He can do. This isn’t about shame or pretending worry doesn’t happen. It’s about understanding what’s really going on beneath our anxiety and learning how to respond differently. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✨ Why worry feels so exhausting and heavy ✨ How control and self-reliance fuel anxiety ✨ The difference between being concerned and letting worry take over ✨ What it actually looks like to give a situation to God ✨ How trusting God changes the way we think about outcomes ✨ Practical ways to stop ruminating and start releasing control We’ll talk about finances, relationships, unanswered prayers, and the “what if” scenarios that keep looping in our minds. You’ll also hear how Scripture reframes worry—not as something we should feel guilty about, but as an invitation to trust God more deeply. This episode is for you if you’re tired of carrying the weight, replaying the scenarios, and trying to hold everything together on your own. 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

30 | Matthew 7: A Closer Look at “Depart From Me, I Never Knew You”

2026-01-2718:34

Have you ever felt like you knew someone—followed them, listened to them, learned from them—only to realize they had no idea who you were? In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we take a closer look at one of the most sobering statements Jesus ever made: “Depart from me… I never knew you.” (Matthew 7) This episode isn’t meant to create fear or make you question your salvation every time you struggle. Instead, it’s about understanding what Jesus actually meant—and why this warning is about relationship, not religious activity. We’ll walk through the context of Matthew 7, explore the difference between knowing about God and truly knowing Him, and look at biblical examples that make this distinction clear—especially the contrast between Judas and Peter. If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to know God—and how to know if He knows you—this episode is for you. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✨ Why Matthew 7 is about relationship, not perfection ✨ The difference between knowing God’s name and being known by Him ✨ How religious activity can replace real relationship if we’re not careful ✨ Why Judas and Peter had very different outcomes—even though both walked closely with Jesus ✨ What Jesus means when He talks about “doing the will of the Father” ✨ What knowing God actually looks like in everyday life 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

29 | God May Move the Mountain, But Don’t Be Surprised If He Hands You a Shovel

2026-01-2016:53

Do you ever pray for God to help you… and then feel frustrated when nothing changes? You ask God to fix the situation, change the person, remove the obstacle—and instead of an instant solution, you’re handed responsibility. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about a tension we see all throughout Scripture: God is powerful. God is faithful. God moves. But He often invites us to move too. This isn’t about earning God’s help or forcing His hand. It’s about understanding how obedience, trust, and movement often go hand in hand with God’s work in our lives. We’re looking at real stories from the Bible where God did the impossible—but people still had to take a step of faith. You’ll learn: ✨ Why trusting God doesn’t always mean standing still ✨ Biblical examples where God made a way, but people still had to move ✨ How obedience plays a role without turning faith into performance ✨ Why waiting for clarity or confidence can keep us stuck ✨ What it looks like to take the next step—even when it feels uncomfortable This episode is for anyone who feels stuck waiting on God, wondering why help hasn’t come yet, or wrestling with the tension between prayer and action. It’s a reminder that God is not distant or withholding—He’s often inviting us into the process. 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

28 | How Distraction Pulls Us Away from Jesus: The Story of Mary and Martha

2026-01-1313:35

Do you ever feel like everything needs your attention at the same time? Like if you don’t deal with it right now, it’s going to fall apart? In today’s episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about the story of Mary and Martha—and how distraction and urgency can pull our focus away from what matters most. This isn’t about being “a Mary” instead of “a Martha.” Martha wasn’t doing something wrong. It was her focus. And that’s the part that hits real life—because most of us aren’t trying to ignore Jesus. We’re just busy. And urgent things don’t stop coming. In this episode, you’ll hear: ✨ Why the Mary and Martha story is often misunderstood ✨ What Jesus actually says to Martha (and what He doesn’t say) ✨ How urgency convinces us we’re being responsible while quietly stealing our focus ✨ The everyday ways distraction shows up—especially when life is full ✨ How to start living with more intention instead of just reacting to what’s urgent Verse for the Week: Luke 10:41–42 — “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one.” If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or disconnected, this episode will help you take an honest look at what’s been getting your attention—and how to bring your focus back to Jesus. 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

27 | Stop Managing Time, Start Managing Priorities: Living Aligned with God’s Vision

2026-01-0621:46

Do you ever feel like you’re constantly busy but still unsure if you’re focusing on the right things? So many of us try to manage our time better, hoping that will fix the overwhelm—but the real issue usually isn’t time. It’s priorities. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about why priority management matters more than time management, and how learning to live intentionally can bring clarity, peace, and direction. This isn’t about hustling harder or fixing your whole life. It’s about slowing down, getting honest, and aligning your life with what God is calling you to focus on in this season. You’ll learn: ✨ Why managing priorities is more important than managing time ✨ How living reactively keeps you stuck and exhausted ✨ What the Bible says about living intentionally ✨ A simple way to review your life and identify what matters most ✨ How to choose what to focus on without feeling overwhelmed ✨ How to turn priorities into realistic goals and daily habits ✨ Why clarity for the next 90 days is more important than a five-year plan This isn’t another productivity pep talk. It’s an invitation to step off autopilot, ask God for guidance, and start making small, intentional choices that lead to a life rooted in peace and purpose. Scripture of the Week Proverbs 16:9 (NIV) — “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

26 | Looking Back Before Moving Forward: A Faith-Filled Year-End Review

2025-12-3007:30

Before you start planning a new year, setting goals, or thinking about what needs to change, this episode invites you to pause and look at the year you’re finishing. Not to analyze every detail. Not to judge yourself. Just to reflect. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re walking through a simple, intentional way to review the past year—so you don’t rush ahead without recognizing what this season actually held. Together, we’ll look at the big picture, notice patterns, reflect on key areas of life, and take time to recognize where God was present along the way. This episode isn’t about fixing everything before January arrives. It’s about slowing down, gaining clarity, and moving forward with wisdom instead of pressure. You’ll learn: ✨ How to pause and reflect on the year you’re finishing before jumping into planning ✨ A simple way to identify the overall theme of your past year ✨ How to look honestly at highs, lows, and what they revealed about you ✨ How to review 8 key areas of your life without judgment or pressure ✨ How to notice where God was present—even when it wasn’t obvious at the time ✨ Why reflection creates clarity before you think about goals or change Scripture of the Week Psalm 90:12 (NIV) “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

25 | A Study of Luke: The Triumphal Entry through the Resurrection (Chapters 19-24)

2025-12-2320:38

Do you ever slow down long enough to take in the final days of Jesus’ earthly ministry—not just the resurrection, but everything that led up to it? In this final episode of our Luke Study, we’re walking through Luke chapters 19 through 24. This is the final stretch of Jesus’ earthly ministry—His entry into Jerusalem, His teaching in the temple, His betrayal, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension. These chapters bring us straight to the heart of why Jesus came. What we see is Jesus continuing forward, even knowing what’s ahead. Nothing catches Him off guard. Nothing is accidental. Every step is purposeful, even when the cost becomes clear. You’ll hear about: ✨ Jesus’ encounter with Zacchaeus and how true repentance leads to real transformation ✨ The Parable of the Ten Minas and the call to be faithful with what God has given us ✨ Jesus’ authority being questioned—and how He exposes hypocrisy and empty religion ✨ The widow’s offering, end-time warnings, and the call to remain watchful and prayerful ✨ The Last Supper, betrayal, denial, and Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane ✨ The crucifixion, forgiveness at the cross, and the promise of redemption ✨ The resurrection, the road to Emmaus, and Jesus’ final commission From Zacchaeus to the thief on the cross, we see the same invitation over and over again: to come close, to turn toward Jesus, and to trust Him. Luke doesn’t end with answers to every question or neat resolutions for every struggle. It ends with a risen Savior and ordinary people learning to live differently because of Him. The story doesn’t end at the cross. And it doesn’t end at the empty tomb. It continues in our lives, every single day, as we follow Jesus—one step at a time. Because that’s where we find peace. 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

24 | A Study of Luke: Following Jesus on the Road (Chapters 10-18)

2025-12-1624:53

Do you ever wonder what it really looks like to follow Jesus—not just believe in Him, but walk with Him day by day? In this episode, we’re diving into Luke chapters 10 through 18. These chapters show us what life with Jesus looks like in practical, everyday ways. From compassion and prayer to humility, repentance, persistence, and trust, Jesus gives us a blueprint for authentic discipleship. You’ll learn: ✨ How Jesus models compassion and priorities for His followers ✨ Why prayer, persistence, and childlike faith matter in our everyday lives ✨ How humility and gratitude shape the way we live and interact with others ✨ Lessons from parables like the Good Samaritan, the Prodigal Son, and the Persistent Widow ✨ What it truly means to take up your cross daily and follow Jesus This episode isn’t about perfection or getting everything right. It’s about noticing God at work around you, trusting Him even when life is messy, and allowing Him to guide your steps. Following Jesus is a daily journey—and He invites us to walk it with faith, hope, and love. 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

23 | A Study of Luke: The Ministry Begins (chapters 6-9)

2025-12-0921:41

Sometimes we move through the Gospels quickly and miss just how much Jesus is doing—how He teaches, how He loves, and how He meets people right where they are. In this episode, we’re continuing our December study in the book of Luke and looking at Chapters 6–9. Each chapter highlights something different: conflict with the Pharisees, powerful miracles, stories of compassion, and moments where the disciples begin to understand who Jesus truly is. This isn’t a deep, verse-by-verse study. It’s a big-picture look at what Jesus taught, what He did, and how people responded to Him—and how these moments still speak to us today. You’ll learn: ✨ How Luke 6 shows Jesus’ teaching in contrast to the Pharisees — including the Sabbath stories, the Beatitudes, the woes, and His call to love our enemies ✨ How Luke 7 highlights Jesus’ authority and compassion through the healing of the centurion’s servant, the raising of the widow’s son, John the Baptist’s question, and the forgiveness of the sinful woman ✨ How Luke 8 gives us parables to think about and several powerful healings — including the calming of the storm, the man with many demons, the woman with the bleeding issue, and Jairus’ daughter ✨ How Luke 9 shifts the focus as the disciples step into ministry, witness the feeding of the 5,000, see the Transfiguration, and learn what it truly means to follow Jesus ✨ One simple application drawn from these chapters: choosing compassion over judgment as we interact with people this week These chapters remind us that Jesus isn’t distant or demanding. He steps into real moments, real emotions, and real situations, inviting us to trust Him, follow Him, and see people the way He does. 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

22 | A Study of Luke: The Story Begins (Chapters 1-5)

2025-12-0223:57

Do you ever feel like the Christmas season gets so busy that you lose sight of what the story is actually about? We jump into December, the calendar fills up, and before we know it, our hearts feel rushed instead of rooted. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re beginning our December study in the book of Luke — starting with Chapters 1–5. These chapters are full of angel announcements, unexpected miracles, ordinary people being pulled into God’s plan, and the very beginning of Jesus’ ministry. This isn’t a deep, verse-by-verse study. It’s a big-picture look at how the story of Jesus begins — and how these familiar moments speak right into the middle of our everyday lives. You’ll learn: ✨ What Luke’s opening chapters tell us about who Jesus is and why His story matters ✨ Why God chose ordinary people like Mary, Elizabeth, Zechariah, and a group of shepherds ✨ How Jesus meets people right in the middle of their regular routines ✨ What the miracles in Chapters 1–5 reveal about God’s character ✨ A simple way to pay attention to His presence in your own everyday moments this week This episode is a reminder that the story of Jesus didn’t start in perfect circumstances — it started with real people, real questions, and real moments where God stepped into ordinary life. That same God meets you today, right where you are. 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@simpledailyfaith.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

21 | Someone Is Watching You… and It Matters More Than You Know

2025-11-2510:56

Do you ever forget that people are paying attention to the way you live… even in the small moments you barely notice? Not in a scary way — but in a real, everyday, “your life makes an impact” kind of way. The truth is: someone is watching you, and it actually matters. They’re paying attention to how you respond when you’re stressed. How you talk about others. How you treat the people who cross your path. And whether you realize it or not, those moments are shaping the way they understand your faith — and the Jesus you say you follow. In today’s episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about the quiet influence you carry, the way your life reflects Christ long before you ever say a word, and why your everyday choices reach people in ways you might never see. This isn’t about pressure or perfection. It’s about walking in a way that points to Him — simply because you live like someone who has been changed. You’ll learn: ✨ What Scripture says about being a light in everyday life ✨ How people form impressions of your faith through your reactions ✨ Why small moments carry more weight than big ones ✨ What it means to be an ambassador for Christ in real, ordinary places ✨ How to handle the moments when your behavior doesn’t match what you believe ✨ Why humility speaks louder than a perfect performance ✨ Practical ways to live in a way that makes others curious about Jesus This episode is a gentle reminder that your life is sending a message — and God can use every bit of it. You don’t have to be loud. You don’t have to be flawless. You just have to keep showing up with a heart that wants to reflect Him. And trust me… someone will notice. 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

20 | Walking on Water: Keeping Your Focus on Jesus When Life Feels Like a Storm

2025-11-1810:35

Do you ever notice how quickly your peace slips away the moment life gets chaotic? One minute everything feels steady… and the next, your thoughts are racing, your heart is tight, and you’re wondering how everything got so overwhelming so fast. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about Peter’s moment on the water in Matthew 14—and what it shows us about staying focused on Jesus when the circumstances around us feel bigger than we can handle. This isn’t about pretending the storm isn’t real. It’s about learning how to keep your eyes on the One who never moves, even when the waves rise. You’ll learn: ✨ What led up to the storm—and why Jesus sent the disciples into it ✨ How Jesus prayed before the miracle (and why that matters for us) ✨ Why Peter could walk on water one moment and sink the next ✨ The real reason fear overtook him (hint: his circumstances didn’t change—his focus did) ✨ How Jesus responds when our faith falters ✨ Practical, grace-filled ways to steady your heart when life feels stormy This isn’t another “just trust God more” message. It’s a reminder that Jesus sees you, comes toward you, and reaches for you the moment your faith starts to slip. You don’t have to hold it all together—His hand is already reaching toward you. 📚 Resources Mentioned 🛒Simple Daily Faith - Scripture Verse Cards & Sugar Scrubs 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

19 | You Were Made for Relationship, Not Religion

2025-11-1112:03

Have you ever felt like you’re doing all the right things—going to church, reading your Bible, volunteering—but still feel like something’s missing? This week, we’re talking about what it really means to know God. Not just know about Him, but to actually have a relationship with Him. Because somewhere along the way, faith can start to feel like a checklist instead of a connection. We read, serve, pray, and still wonder why God feels far away. But the truth is, God never asked for religion. He asked for relationship. In this episode: ✨ Why faith feels empty when it becomes routine ✨ The difference between knowing about God and truly knowing Him ✨ What Jesus meant when He described Himself as the Bridegroom ✨ How to move from “doing” for God to simply being with Him ✨ Three simple ways to grow a real relationship with God This conversation isn’t about trying harder or doing more. It’s about slowing down long enough to remember that God doesn’t want our perfection — He wants our hearts. 📚 Resources Mentioned ⛪️ Easter Message by Pastor Chris Hodges 🛒 My favorite Things → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

18 | A Peaceful Morning Routine With God (No 5 a.m. Wake-Up Required)

2025-11-0409:17

Do you wake up already stressed—before your feet even hit the floor? When your alarm goes off, does your mind immediately jump to what could go wrong today? What if your mornings could start differently? What if instead of rushing into chaos, you started your day with calm, gratitude, and peace? In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about how to start your day with peace — not by getting up at 5 a.m. or forcing a perfect routine, but through a few simple habits that help you invite God into your morning and steady your heart before the day begins. You’ll learn: ✨ Why your first few minutes after waking up matter more than you think ✨ How to invite God into your morning with gratitude and prayer ✨ A simple way to pray through the Armor of God each day ✨ How to stay calm and connected even when your mornings feel rushed ✨ Practical ways to make peace your default — not stress This episode will remind you that peace doesn’t come from productivity or control. It comes from presence — God’s presence. And when you start your morning with Him, you carry that peace into everything that follows. 📚 Resources Mentioned 📆 The Bible Recap – Read the Bible chronologically with daily recaps 🛒 My favorite Study Bibles → Amazon Storefront 📚 Get on the Waitlist for the "How to Study the Bible" Course 💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

#box-pro-ellipsis-177404496059133{-webkit-line-clamp:2;}Peace Over Perfection | Christian podcast | Devotional | Scripture, Biblical Encouragement, Bible Verses for Anxiety, Biblical Application | Trusting God

Peace Over Perfection | Christian podcast | Devotional | Scripture, Biblical Encouragement, Bible Verses for Anxiety, Biblical Application | Trusting God