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

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  

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  

Most of us can quote Psalm 23 by heart. It’s one of the most well-known passages in Scripture—often recited in moments of reflection or peace. But Psalm 23 is more than a comforting psalm—it’s a deep, theological picture of God’s character and His active care for His people. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we take a closer, verse-by-verse look at Psalm 23 and explore the covenant names of God revealed within it. You’ll see how each verse points to a specific aspect of His nature—The Lord who provides, heals, restores, leads, sanctifies, and sustains. This study will help you move beyond simply knowing the words of Psalm 23 to understanding what they reveal about the Shepherd who walks beside you. 💡 In This Episode The meaning of each covenant name of God found in Psalm 23 The difference between righteousness (being made right with God) and sanctification (being made more like Him) How “He restores my soul” speaks to God’s healing and renewal Why “He leads me in paths of righteousness” describes a daily, ongoing walk of sanctification The significance of anointing with oil—and how it represents both calling and protection How each verse of Psalm 23 shows God’s heart to lead, guide, and transform us 📚 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

Discover the True Story Behind the KJV, NIV, and Modern Versions—and Why You Can Trust God’s Word Have you ever wondered if the Bible is still accurate after being translated so many times? Or maybe you’ve heard that newer versions “leave out” verses and wondered if that means we can’t trust them. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re digging into the story behind our modern Bibles—how they were translated, why there are so many versions, and what makes each one unique. You’ll see how God has preserved His Word through every century and every translation so that you can read it confidently today. You’ll learn: ✨ How the Bible was written, preserved, and translated over time ✨ The difference between translations like the KJV, NIV, ESV, CSB, and NLT ✨ Why some verses are missing (or footnoted) in newer versions ✨ How archaeology and manuscript discoveries confirm Scripture’s accuracy ✨ Why you can confidently trust the Bible you’re holding—because God’s Word never changes This isn’t a theology lecture—it’s a reminder of God’s faithfulness. The same Word that spoke to His people thousands of years ago still speaks to you today. 🛠️ Resources Mentioned 📖 BibleGateway.com – Compare multiple translations side by side 📚 BibleHub.com – Study tools and cross-references 📆 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 Information about the King James Version https://www.gotquestions.org/missing-verses.html  https://www.gotquestions.org/translation-inspiration.html  💌 Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

If you’ve ever asked questions like: “Why do I feel so empty inside?” “What’s my purpose in life?” “Why does it seem like nothing I do really matters?” —you’re not alone. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re diving into the Book of Ecclesiastes—an honest, thought-provoking look at what gives life real meaning. We’ll explore why even wisdom, work, and success can leave us unfulfilled, and how God offers purpose, peace, and joy that last. We’ll look at: ✨ What “meaningless” (hevel) really means—and how it points us to God, not despair ✨ Why striving for success, perfection, or pleasure never truly satisfies the heart ✨ How God weaves purpose into every season of life—even the hard ones ✨ Simple, biblical truths to help you find peace right where you are ✨ How to stop chasing the wind and start resting in the One who gives life meaning Friend, Ecclesiastes isn’t a hopeless book—it’s an invitation to stop searching for worth in all the wrong places and start finding fulfillment in the God who made you on purpose, for a purpose. Resources Mentioned: My Amazon Storefront (my favorite products) https://www.amazon.com/shop/susanshropshire Join our Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/peaceoverperfectionpod Free PDF: Quiet the Spiral – 10 Common Lies & the Scripture to Fight Them https://abundantlylivedlife.myflodesk.com/wmuquzsqnf Connect With Me: Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts Instagram → @susan.shropshire https://www.instagram.com/susan.shropshire TikTok → Susan Shropshire https://www.tiktok.com/@susanshropshire  

Do you ever feel like life is just spinning out of control, and no matter what you do, there aren’t enough hours in the day? For many women—whether you’re a mom, an empty nester, or somewhere in between—it’s easy to feel stretched thin and overwhelmed by daily routines, family responsibilities, and everything else life throws at you. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, I’m talking with special guest Rachel King, host of the Mama’s Tired podcast and creator of The Peaceful Mom Method. Rachel helps busy Christian women—especially moms—create systems, routines, and practical tools to simplify life and reclaim peace in their day-to-day.  This conversation isn’t about doing more or “having it all together.” It’s about learning how small, intentional changes in routines and systems can transform your home life, reduce stress, and help you find freedom in your everyday responsibilities. You’ll learn: ✨ How to set up practical systems and routines that actually work ✨ Tips for meal planning and managing family schedules without the overwhelm ✨ Ways to include your family in routines so everyone thrives ✨ How to reclaim peace in your day-to-day life, no matter your season ✨ Encouragement and advice from Rachel’s own journey as a mom and productivity specialist Whether you’re raising little ones, navigating busy seasons, or just looking for ways to simplify life, this episode is packed with practical tips and encouragement for every woman.   Rachel King is a woman of faith, wife, mom, coffee lover, certified nutrition coach, and a productivity specialist. She is the host of the Mama's Tired podcast and the creator of The Peaceful Mom Method. Rachel helps busy Christian moms find peace in their day-to-day routines. Connect with Rachel:  🖥️ Website: https://www.rachelking.org 🥳 Facebook Group | Simple Systems for Tired Mamma's  📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelmeigsking/  🌟 Learn more about the Peaceful Mom Method 🌟   Resources & Links 🛍️ My Amazon Storefront (my favorite products) 📲 Free Rejoice Phone & Computer Wallpaper 🙏 FREE PDF: Praying Through the Armor Of God 🌟 Join our Facebook Community 📥 Free PDF: Quiet the Spiral – 10 Common Lies & the Scripture to Fight Them Connect With Me 📧 Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire  

Do you ever wake up and feel like the day is already running ahead of you? The alarm goes off, the to-do list is waiting, and before the coffee even brews you’re already overwhelmed. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about what it really means to choose joy — not when everything’s going right, but right in the middle of the chaos. Psalm 118:24 reminds us: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Joy isn’t the same as happiness. Happiness depends on circumstances, but joy is rooted in God’s presence and His promises. We’ll explore why joy matters, how it can anchor your heart in the middle of the mess, and practical ways to live it out today. You’ll learn: ✨ What Psalm 118:24 really means in context ✨ How to practice joy even on stressful or disappointing days ✨ Simple, everyday ways to notice joy and share it with others ✨ Why choosing joy leads to real peace Friend, you don’t have to wait for a “perfect” day to rejoice. If God gave you today, then He gave you purpose in it — and His joy is your strength.   Resources & Links 🛍️ My Amazon Storefront (my favorite products) 📲 Free Rejoice Phone & Computer Wallpaper 🙏 FREE PDF: Praying Through the Armor Of God 🌟 Join our Facebook Community 📥 Free PDF: Quiet the Spiral – 10 Common Lies & the Scripture to Fight Them Connect With Me 📧 Email → Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

Would you ever talk to a friend the way you talk to yourself? Most of us wouldn’t. And yet those same critical words shape how we see ourselves, how we see God, and how we live day-to-day. Proverbs 23:7 reminds us, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re diving into the life-shaping power of your thoughts and words. You’ll learn: ✨ Why words are like seeds—and how your harvest depends on what you plant ✨ How your brain’s built-in filter (the Reticular Activating System) works like a social media algorithm to shape your focus ✨ Why the people around you influence your mindset and spiritual growth more than you realize ✨ Practical ways to catch negative self-talk in real time and replace it with truth that brings peace This isn’t about ignoring hard things or pretending life is perfect. It’s about shifting your perspective, choosing words that build instead of tear down, and noticing God’s presence in the middle of ordinary frustrations. Scripture of the Week Ephesians 4:29 — “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Resources & Links 🛍️ My Amazon Storefront (my favorite products) 🙏 FREE PDF: Praying Through the Armor Of God 🌟 Join our Facebook Community 📥 Free PDF: Quiet the Spiral – 10 Common Lies & the Scripture to Fight Them Application for the Week Your words aren’t just noise—they’re building material. This week, pay attention to the little phrases you say under your breath when things go wrong. Instead of letting those negative words set the tone, stop and ask: Does this build up or break down? Then invite God to help you swap your words for ones that encourage, strengthen, and bring peace—whether you’re speaking to yourself, to others, or even just whispering in prayer. Because that’s where we find peace. Connect With Me 📧 Email → Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire  

If you’ve ever asked questions like: “Why does God allow suffering?” “Why did He answer their prayer but not mine?” “Is God even listening?” —you’re not alone. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking honestly about doubt, fear, and unanswered prayers. Having doubts doesn’t mean you’ve lost your faith. In fact, doubts can actually lead to a deeper trust in God when you bring them to Him. We’ll look at: ✨ The difference between doubt and unbelief (and why your questions don’t disqualify you) ✨ Why pain and brokenness exist in our world—and how God is still at work in it ✨ Stories of people in the Bible who wrestled with doubt (Abraham, Sarah, Moses, Thomas, even the disciples) ✨ What to do when God feels silent, when prayers go unanswered, or when you’re battling anxiety and fear ✨ Five practical action steps for handling doubt in a way that draws you closer to Him Friend, your doubts don’t scare God. They don’t push Him away. He’s not disappointed in your questions. He’s inviting you to bring them to Him—because that’s where your faith can grow the deepest. Resources Mentioned: 🛍️ My Amazon Storefront (my favorite products) 🙏 FREE PDF: Praying Through the Armor Of God 🌟 Join our Facebook Community 📥 Free PDF: Quiet the Spiral – 10 Common Lies & the Scripture to Fight Them Connect With Me 📧 Email → Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

Do you ever feel like the people in your life are the problem—your spouse, your kids, your boss, your friends? The truth is, they’re not the real enemy. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re diving into what Ephesians 6 teaches us: your battle isn’t against flesh and blood. People aren’t the problem—the devil is. And the good news? God hasn’t left you defenseless. He’s given you the Armor of God so you can stand strong, fight back, and live in peace. You’ll learn: ✨ Why conflict and frustration with people isn’t the real battle you’re facing ✨ Who the real enemy is and how he tries to steal your joy ✨ What each piece of the Armor of God means for your everyday life ✨ Practical ways to “put on” the armor daily so you don’t walk into the fight unprepared ✨ How to finally stop wasting energy fighting the wrong battles and start standing firm in victory This episode isn’t just about knowing the Armor of God—it’s about using it. You don’t have to keep feeling attacked, frustrated, or defeated. God has already given you everything you need to fight the real enemy and find peace in the middle of your everyday struggles. Resources Mentioned: 🛍️ My Amazon Storefront (my favorite products) 🙏 FREE PDF: Praying Through the Armor Of God 🌟 Join our Facebook Community 📥 Free PDF: Quiet the Spiral – 10 Common Lies & the Scripture to Fight Them   Connect With Me: 📧 Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire  

Do you ever lay awake at night replaying conversations, worrying about tomorrow, or trying to plan for every possible “what if”? That’s overthinking — and it’s exhausting. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re tackling the root of overthinking—why our minds get stuck in endless loops of “what ifs” and replayed conversations. Together, we’ll uncover the reasons behind overthinking—like fear of mistakes, perfectionism, and the need for control—and then walk through six practical, Scripture-based steps you can use to quiet your mind, release anxiety, and experience God’s peace. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✨ The difference between rumination and worry—and how both fuel overthinking ✨ Why perfectionism and fear of mistakes keep us stuck in analysis paralysis ✨ What Scripture teaches us about taking our thoughts captive and trusting God’s perspective ✨ Six practical steps to quiet your racing mind and move forward with peace ✨ Encouragement for when progress feels slow and messy This episode isn’t about never having another anxious thought again—it’s about learning how to notice the spiral, invite God into it, and take small steps forward with Him. Scripture of the Week Proverbs 3:5–6 (NIV) “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Resources Mentioned: 🛍️ My Amazon Storefront (my favorite products) 🌟 Join our Facebook Community 📥 Free PDF: Quiet the Spiral – 10 Common Lies & the Scripture to Fight Them   Connect With Me: 📧 Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire  

Do you ever scroll through social media and feel like everyone else has it all together—perfect homes, flawless kids, or seemingly endless accomplishments—while you’re just trying to keep up? Friend, comparison is sneaky. It can steal your joy, distract you from your purpose, and even make you question your worth. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re digging into why comparison is such a trap, how it shows up in your life, and—most importantly—how to break free by finding your identity in Christ. You’ll discover: ✨ Why comparison steals your peace and how it really works in your heart and mind ✨ Biblical examples that show how envy and comparison have consequences ✨ How to celebrate others’ success without letting it diminish your own journey ✨ What imposter syndrome really is and how to see it for what it is ✨ Practical ways to overcome comparison, including limiting social media exposure, practicing gratitude, and remembering your true identity in Christ ✨ How to anchor your worth in God’s love instead of likes, followers, or the world’s standards This episode isn’t about “fixing yourself” or pretending envy doesn’t exist. It’s about learning to step off the comparison treadmill, see yourself through God’s eyes, and live confidently in the purpose He has uniquely designed for you. Verse of the Week: Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Whenever you feel the pull of comparison this week, pause and reflect on this truth: your worth is anchored in Christ, your journey is uniquely yours, and you are God’s masterpiece. That’s where peace is found.   Resources Mentioned: 🛍️ My Amazon Storefront (my favorite products) 🌟 Join our Facebook Community 📥 Free PDF: Quiet the Spiral – 10 Common Lies & the Scripture to Fight Them Scripture of the Week Ephesians 2:10 "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Connect With Me: 📧 Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire  

Do you ever feel like you’re barely holding it together—and wonder where you’re supposed to find the strength to keep going? Maybe you’ve heard Philippians 4:13 your whole life: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (NIV). It shows up on coffee mugs, T-shirts, and even locker room speeches. But here’s the thing—Paul wasn’t talking about winning championships or achieving big goals. In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re digging into what Paul really meant when he wrote those words from a prison cell. This isn’t about success or striving—it’s about finding the kind of strength that steadies you when life feels too heavy to carry. You’ll learn: ✨ The real context behind Philippians 4:13 (and why it’s even more powerful than we usually think) ✨ How Paul found joy and contentment even in the hardest circumstances ✨ Why God’s strength doesn’t always change our situation—but it always changes us ✨ The first time God’s strength shows up in Scripture (and what it means for us today) ✨ Practical ways to draw on His strength when you feel anxious, weary, or overwhelmed This isn’t positive thinking or “try harder” motivation. It’s a reminder that God’s strength is available to you right now—in your weakness, in your questions, and in your everyday struggles. Resources Mentioned: 🛍️ My Amazon Storefront (my favorite products) 🌟 Join our Facebook Community 📥 Free PDF: Quiet the Spiral – 10 Common Lies & the Scripture to Fight Them Scripture of the Week Philippians 4:13 (NIV) — “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Connect With Me: 📧 Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

Do you feel like your days are so full that there’s no room left for the things that actually matter? Are you longing for more peace, but find yourself stuck in a cycle of commitments, noise, and never-ending tasks? Do you wonder how to prioritize your faith and well-being without letting everything else fall apart? In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about making space for what truly matters—not just in your schedule, but in your heart. This isn’t another time management episode. It’s about learning to live with intention, protect your priorities, and create room for God’s peace in the middle of everyday life. You’ll learn: Why making space in your life is a biblical principle, not a luxury How to identify what’s truly yours to carry in this season—and what’s not Practical ways to protect your priorities without feeling guilty How small moments of stillness can help you hear from God more clearly The mindset shift that frees you from equating busyness with purpose You don’t need a perfect schedule to live with peace. You just need a willingness to pause, reflect, and let God lead your priorities. Let’s get honest, practical, and Scripture-rooted as we talk about how to live with more space for the things that matter most. Resources Mentioned: 🛍️ My Amazon Storefront (my favorite products) 🌟 Join our Facebook Community Scripture of the Week: Proverbs 4:26 — “Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.” Connect With Me: 📧 Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire  

Do you ever wish prayer felt less confusing—and more like a real conversation with God?   Have you hesitated to pray because you didn’t know where to start—or felt too distracted to focus?   Have you heard the Lord’s Prayer but wondered what it really means… or how to use it in your own life?   In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re walking through one of the most well-known prayers in the Bible—not to memorize it, but to use it as a simple, powerful model for connecting with God.   You’ll learn:   What each part of the Lord’s Prayer actually means How to use this prayer as a daily guide Why prayer isn’t about the “right” words—it’s about relationship How prayer can be both a comfort and a weapon in spiritual battles I’ll also share how 21 Days of Prayer at my church transformed my prayer life—and why it’s not too late to join in. This episode is packed with practical tools, biblical encouragement, and a reminder that prayer isn’t a performance. It’s a connection. Let’s unpack it together.   Resources Mentioned: 🛍️ My Amazon Storefront (my favorite products) 📖 21 Days of Prayer Info + Resources Scripture of the Week: Matthew 6:9 — “This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name…’” Connect With Me: 📧 Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

Do you ever feel like your thoughts are running the show? Are you constantly replaying conversations, worrying about things that haven’t even happened, or battling thoughts that sound a lot like shame? Do you wonder, “What’s wrong with me?” when your brain won’t slow down? In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re talking about the mental spiral—what causes it, why it feels so overwhelming, and how to stop letting your thoughts boss you around. Because those anxious, spiraling thoughts? They’re not just mental noise. They’re spiritual territory. And you’re not powerless in the battle. You’ll learn: 💭 Why your thoughts can sound true but still be a lie 🛡️ How to recognize spiritual warfare in your mind—and fight back with truth 📖 The exact Scripture to speak when the lies sneak in 🧠 How to take your thoughts captive instead of letting them take over ✍️ A practical way to interrupt the spiral and start thinking differently If you’ve been overwhelmed, discouraged, or just plain tired of overthinking everything—this episode will remind you that you’re not stuck. There’s a way to fight back. And it starts with God’s Word. Resources Mentioned: 📥 Free PDF: Quiet the Spiral – 10 Common Lies & the Scripture to Fight Them 🛍️ My Amazon Storefront (favorite books + faith tools) 🖨️ Free Printable Scripture Cards – Download Here Scripture of the Week: Ephesians 6:17 – “Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Connect With Me: 📧 Email → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire

Do you ever wonder if you’re doing prayer “right”? Have you hesitated to talk to God because you didn’t know where to start—or felt too distracted to focus? Are you craving a deeper relationship with God, but unsure how to build it through prayer? In this episode of Peace Over Perfection, we’re breaking down the pressure around prayer. From not knowing what to say, to getting distracted mid-sentence, to wondering why some prayers feel unanswered—we’re talking about all of it. Because prayer isn’t about perfect words. It’s about connection. You’ll learn: Why you don’t need a script (or a silent house) to pray What to do with distractions when they pop up while praying How to respond when your prayers seem to go unanswered Why prayer is both a comfort and a weapon Simple ways to begin talking with God today—no pressure, no guilt Whether your mind wanders, your faith feels shaky, or you’re just not sure how to start… this episode is for you. Let’s get honest, practical, and Scripture-rooted as we talk about what prayer really is—and how it can change your life. Resources Mentioned: 📖 Pray First by Chris Hodges 🛍️ My Amazon Storefront (my favorite products) 🖨️ Free Printable Scripture Cards – Download Here Scripture of the Week: Psalm 62:8 – “Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” Connect With Me: 📧 Contact → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com 🎙️ Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts 📸 Instagram → @susan.shropshire 🎵 TikTok → @susanshropshire  

Feeling Anxious? 8 Faith-Based Ways to Help You Find Peace Do you feel overwhelmed by anxious thoughts, fears about the future, or that low-grade worry that never fully lets go? Do you wish you could actually rest—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually—even when life doesn’t slow down? In this episode, we’re diving into what the Bible says about worry and how you can trade anxiety for peace—without pretending everything’s okay. You’ll learn 8 practical, faith-filled ways to find calm when your mind is spiraling, including how to: Stop replaying worst-case scenarios Loosen your grip on control Make room for joy and presence Pray honestly (even when you don’t have words) Ask for help without guilt We’ll look at what Jesus did when He felt overwhelmed, what Scripture tells us about God’s character, and how to ground yourself in truth—especially when your thoughts won’t settle. Whether you're up at 2 a.m. with your heart racing or just feeling the constant hum of “what if,” this episode will meet you there—and gently point you back to peace. Resources: Get your free printable scripture cards: Download Here My Amazon Storefront (My Favorite Products) Contact → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com  Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts Instagram → @susan.shropshire Tik Tok → @susanshropshire

Do you feel guilty when your day gets away from you and time with God doesn’t happen? Ever wonder if your quick prayers or scattered spiritual moments really “count”? Do you long to feel spiritually grounded—even in the middle of your busiest days? In this episode, I’m sharing how to stay spiritually connected with God throughout your day—even when your quiet time didn’t go as planned so you can let go of guilt and grow in your relationship with Him in small, meaningful ways. Whether you’re juggling errands, work meetings, or bedtime routines, this episode will encourage you with practical ideas, Scripture-based truth, and real talk about perfectionism, procrastination, and what God really wants from us. (Hint: It’s not performance. It’s presence.) Resources: Get your free printable scripture cards: Download Here Links Mentioned The Bible Recap by Tara-Leigh Cobble Study Gateway – Bible Studies Online YouVersion Bible App My Amazon Storefront (My Favorite Products)   Contact → susan@abundantlylivedlife.com Podcast → Peace Over Perfection on Apple Podcasts Instagram → @susan.shropshire Tik Tok → @susanshropshire

Welcome to Peace Over Perfection, a podcast that invites you to let go of striving for a picture-perfect faith routine and instead embrace a genuine walk with God in the midst of life's chaos. Hosted by Susan, a dedicated wife, mom, and small business owner, this episode dives deep into the emotional and physical exhaustion many of us face. Do you feel overwhelmed by unyielding expectations and an insurmountable to-do list? Have you found yourself retreating to social media or TV, only to face amplified comparisons and mental fatigue? Susan acknowledges these struggles and shares her personal journey from anxiety to finding a profound peace through trusting God wholeheartedly. Join us as Susan unveils her discoveries on living out faith amidst everyday challenges, making choices that resonate with what truly matters, and addressing worry, anxiety, and burnout through biblical truths. With candid discussions, humor, and grace, each episode aims to uplift your spirit and guide you closer to God, one step at a time. Grab your favorite drink, tune in, and discover that peace is possible, starting right here.