Created To Shine, Celebrating The Love of Christ in Everyday Life!

It's the 200th episode of the start small BELIEVE BIG. What started as a suggestion because I had a book coming out has turned into a wonderful way to serve the Lord in a new way. Thank you for being here for this episode or if you've been around since the beginning. In today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG, we will learn about Executing the plan of the DETOX. When faced with the decision to leave an impact for Jesus, three questions lay out our strategy.

Have you ever made a plan and God redirects it? Well let's just say God throws me curveballs a lot. Thinking we're staying with a team for a while and not. Buying a house we think is forever, and move. A friendship that I thought was life-giving takes a turn for the worse. I'm not usually one not wanting to step into a new adventure and friendships but…now I see I've not been listening to the Lord how I should. We can outline a plan for the next steps as long as we include Jesus in the planning and realize when He's redirecting our plan for his glory. Listen for the God-given directive that gives you direction. Is your parachute ready? Dream so big only God can fulfill it. Start today. Rely on Jesus. Hear the call, listen, and go. One day at a time. Today's episode gives three steps to outlining the plan.

The longer we live with the toxins of unbelief, guilt and shame, the more we create anxiety, self-pity, self-doubt, and low self-esteem. It is hard to let go of these toxins, but if you do, God is ready to fill you with His peace. Terminating toxins takes time and focus. With our vertical gaze fixed on Jesus, we know we are not alone as we rid ourselves of the toxins. Validating and evaluating our feelings and reactions to our emotions help identify and remove three serious toxins. When we get rid of those, we can have a healthier, more fulfilling life. Today we will give you quite a few scripture to help you overcome unbelief and guilt/shame. I want to let you know about the daily devotion I send out Monday-Friday mornings. Join our amazing community of humans taking a little time each morning to dig into God's Word. When you sign up for Morning ‘Sonshine', you will receive a little encouragement in your inbox each morning. The devotion starts with scripture, then a short teaching, and ends with a quick prayer. We'd love to have you join us! I promise no spam, just Jesus and me. You can find the link in the show notes or on my website billiejauss.com. Do you have a friend that the podcast or the devotions may bless? Let them know!

God is moving. Come along for the ride. Join the detox. Acrostic for D E T O X Define Examine Terminate Outline a Plan eXecute the plan Never let the barriers keep you from accepting what God wants to do in and through you.  E-evaluate the toxins of Unbelief and Guilt/Shame Satan loves it when we have questions or doubts about God, and his hope is that we'll never find our way back. That Satan would even care to mess with me tells me God has something magnificent in store for my life.  We want to control rather than release power to Jesus. We deny that God can do more and do it better than we ever could. We don't accept the fact that God has our best interest in mind. What are you struggling with? The doubt that God can use you? That you can make a difference in the kingdom? Guilt and shame from your past cancels what you can do now?

For the next 5 episodes, I will be digging into two of the most prevalent emotional toxins…Unbelief and Shame…we will walk through the 5 step process to freedom and peace of mind using the DETOX acrostic. In today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG we define the toxin of Unbelief and Guilt/Shame. I love that many of you have been on this journey called a podcast with me for almost 200 episodes. Yes, I started the podcast with the number 100. Let's just say don't listen to everything others suggest!  I began this series of Detoxing from the three top emotional toxins. But I'm taking a little detour. We are going to cover the last two over the next 5 episodes. There are some exciting things happening and there's a bit of redirection being tossed about. I'm in the very beginning stages, but as we head into the 200th episode the Lord is placing some small things on my heart and in my path. We will dig into that over the next few weeks. So come back for exciting decisions and moves. Billie's Website Billie's Books Morning 'Son'shine 

On today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG we will learn about eXecuting the plan to find peace and fulfillment from Fear, Step 5 in the Detox from Emotional Toxins series. Never let the barriers keep you from accepting what God wants to do in and through you. Define the fear that's holding you back. Examine the feeling of fear. Terminate the toxin by replacing deception with truth. Outline the plan. This week we are executing the plan of overcoming the emotional toxin of Fear Do it scared. When faced with the decision to leave an impact for Jesus, three questions lay out our strategy.  Billie's website Billie's books

On today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG I'm talking with author Marci Seither about her new devotion Lakeside Retreat: Life-giving Devotions from a Restful Shore Marci's writing career began after her humor article was published in a small-town newspaper. Since then, she has authored two books and hundreds of articles for local papers as well as Guideposts, Light & Life, and Focus on The Family. Besides writing, she enjoys teaching workshops, speaking, and photography. Her biggest joy, besides being married to John and raising six kiddos, is making marshmallows from scratch and of course, taking time to visit the cabin. Marci's website Lakeside Retreat: Life-giving Devotions from a Restful Shore Billie's website Billie's books

On today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG we will learn How to Outline a Plan for Spiritual Health. Acrostic for D E T O X Define Examine Terminate Outline a Plan eXecute the plan Never let the barriers keep you from accepting what God wants to do in and through you. This week we are outlining a plan to overcome the emotional toxin of Fear. Start today. Begin to rewrite the plan believing that God promises the other side. When the Lord gives a directive, He gives direction. Trust that He will take you there. Find peace in His intention, even when you don't know what that is. Having a spiritual health plan gives us guidance to rely first on Jesus. A list. My favorite thing. Create a list as a reminder to finish the detox with a healthy forward plan of action to follow Jesus. The Health Plan's first step is writing three statements that I believe are true about you, and you should and will think about yourself. -I am braver than I believe. -I am smarter than I think. -I am stronger than I seem. The great I Am will take you to the other side. Billie's website Order Distraction Detox  

Recurring thoughts are a hard habit to break. But mind management helped me see I couldn't clear all the racing emotions on my own. These examples of self-limiting beliefs that lead to God- restricting actions need to be identified. What if we could remove the barriers that cause spiritual jet lag by naming the deceptive thoughts and countering them with the truth? I know we can. Self-limiting beliefs hinder our ability to overcome raging thoughts and hurtful memories. We cannot stop damaging comments from others, but we can choose what builds a home in our mind and heart. Choosing to replace deceptive thoughts with truth is a commitment. God has called us into His marvelous light. Commit to moving forward. Come out of darkness and into the light. Listen to hear examples of how to terminate fear!     Billie's website Sign up to receive Morning 'Son'shine, a Monday-Friday morning devotion sent to your email. Please rate the podcast where you listen. It helps others leave behind what's holding them back. Buy Distraction Detox and review it, please.

This week we evaluate the thoughts and feelings of fear. Where did it come from? Why do we hang onto it? How does it make us feel? What do you need to leave behind when you think of what fear you carry? How many times do we determine and evaluate a feeling in the wrong way? How many times do we just do what we always do? Listen to hear how to evaluate the feeling of fear step 2 in the detox. Billie's website Distraction Detox Email Billie

On today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG, I'm talking with award-winning author Dr. Michelle Bengtson about her new devotional Today Is Going to Be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right Dr. Michelle is a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist, international speaker, national and international media resource on mental health, and the author of three bestselling, award-winning books: "Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor's Personal Journey Through Depression," "Hope Prevails Bible Study," and the 2020 Golden Scroll Book of the Year, "Breaking Anxiety's Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises," as well as her newest release, "Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right." Dr. Michelle uses sound practical tools to affirm worth and encourages faith as a practicing neuropsychologist. She offers hope as a key to unlocking joy and relief, even in the middle of the storm. You can read her blog on her website.  Also, please click on the links above to purchase her books!  

For the next 5 episodes I will be digging into one of the most prevalent emotional toxins…Fear…we will walk through the 5 step process to freedom and peace of mind using the DETOX acrostic. Acrostic for D E T O X   Define   Examine   Terminate   Outline a Plan eXecute the plan Never let the barriers keep you from accepting what God wants to do in and through you. This week we are defining the emotional toxin of Fear. What fear is holding you back? Distraction Detox book Morning 'Son'shine daily email encouragement 5 Steps to Freedom and Peace of Mind

In today's episode, Billie dishes about how her book Distraction Detox came to be.  From a time of doubt and discouragement, Billie began to tackle the root causes. Over time she began to see a process of how to overcome the obstacles and experience peace and fulfillment. Listen to hear more about the book and other questions others have asked. For the next 5 episodes we will be digging into one of the most prevalent emotional toxins…Fear…we will walk through the 5 step process to freedom and peace of mind using the DETOX anagram. If you want to have the printable of the 5 step process you can find the link below. Join us next week to begin the detox of fear. God is moving. Come along for the ride. Join the detox. Download the 5 Steps to Freedom and Peace of Mind. Billie's website Morning 'Son'shine

Whether you are getting married or married for days or years, in-law drama does not have to be part of your life. Even if you have been spared the drama and have a great relationship, you can always find new ways to make it better. Relationships with in-laws can seem like a nightmare. If you've ever faced difficulty with your spouse's parents, you're not alone. The good news is there is hope. Hannarich Asiedu is an author, speaker, philanthropist, mother, and wife. She graduated from the University of Ghana with a bachelor's degree in English and French. She is also certified in the science of well-being under the instruction of cognitive scientist Dr. Laurie Santos at Yale University. Hannarich's website Decoding the In-Law Code Billie's website    

On today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG we will hear from award winning author Kelli Stuart. Kelli is a writer and a storyteller at heart. A graduate of Baylor University with a degree in English Professional Writing, and a minor in the Russian language, Kelli has honed her skills in the written word through editing, ghostwriting, blogging, and traveling the world. Kelli is the author of the Carol-award winning novel, Like a River From Its Course, based on true stories from Ukrainian World War II survivors. Her second novel, A Silver Willow by the Shore, was the NIEA winner for literary fiction and received the IPPY silver award for literary fiction in 2020. Kelli's third book, The Fabulous Freaks of Monsieur Beaumont released in August, 2021. In addition, Kelli is part of a collection of short stories in the Christmas release, It's a Wonderful Christmas: Classics Reimagined. Kelli has co-authored the non-fiction books Dare 2B Wise with Joe White, and Life Creative: Inspiration for Today's Renaissance Mom with Wendy Speake. Today we are talking with Kelli about her new novel The Master Craftsman.

Today's episode features author Jennifer Hand and her new book My Yes Is on the Table. Jenn shares how to take those baby steps of faith and say YES! to God. JENN HAND is the Executive Director of Coming Alive Ministries, founded in 2012. She loves the honor of traveling nationally and internationally, inviting people to come alive in Christ through conferences, retreats, written resources, and counseling. My Yes Is on the Table takes you into the story of the Israelites as they journeyed out of the wilderness and into the Holy Land that God had granted them. Each chapter will challenge you to move from a fear stop to a faith step. And once you've started taking those steps with God, there's no telling where you'll end up.

What does freedom mean to you? So many times I felt stuck because of the situations I was in. I felt I couldn't make an impact because I was busy traveling with my hubby's job. Or he wasn't around to help out with the kids. Or I was in a new place and didn't know anyone. So many excuses. It took me a while to understand God wants to use me wherever I am whenever I'm there. Listen to hear how to learn to prioritize freedom and share our faith. And there are a few stories that you might like! Download Now 5 Steps to Freedom and Peace of Mind Billie's website Billie's new book Distraction Detox Morning 'Son'shine 5 days a week email devotions

Since the creation, God has given us work to do. Not to win our salvation. If we could regard our work as an act of worship or service to God, such an attitude would take some of the boredom and drudgery out of it. We could work without complaining or resentment if we would treat our job problems as the cost of discipleship. If we look at working as a mission field it takes our feelings out and places His power within. Nothing is impossible with God. We cannot accomplish anything if meaning without Him and shouldn't want to. Listen to hear the three forgotten statements to increase our ability to fulfill our calling, right now. Billie's website Billie's books

Each time I would think about trying something new the litany of self-limiting thoughts stopped me. They stopped me from stepping into places God was clearly calling me. Calling me into new spaces with new faces would take lots of confidence and courage. I built very strong cases in my mind that tricked me into believing my thoughts were truth. Listen to today's episode to learn three hope filled questions to lay out a strategy  to make an impact in God's Kingdom. Billie's website Distraction Detox  Morning 'Son'shine

On today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG we will hear from author Melody Carlson about her new book Looking for Leroy.   Melody is the award-winning author of over two hundred books with sales of more than seven million, including many bestselling Christmas novellas, young adult titles, and contemporary romances. She received a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her many books, including Finding Alice, and her novel All Summer Long was made into a Hallmark movie. Her new novel Looking for Leroy weaves an Enchanting Tale about Second Chances at Love. Road trips often provide a host of fun new adventures paired with a few mishaps. But love? Well, that's not usually part of the mix. Looking for Leroy takes you on a trip to rediscover the carefree days of youth where anything seems possible—even love. Melody and her husband live in central Oregon. Looking for Leroy Melody's website Billie's website

On today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG we get to hear how to have hope in overcoming the anxiety bombarding your life with author Caris Snider. Caris is a Christian Communicator who shares the hope of God through speaking, writing, coaching, and leading worship. She is the author of Anxiety Elephants 31 Day Devotional and Anxiety Elephants for Tweens Devotional. Her passion comes forth as she shares from her experiences of overcoming anxiety, depression, fear and shame. Caris desires to help people of all generations see their value and worth through the eyes of the Lord. Billie's website Billie's books Caris' website Anxiety Elephants 31 Days Devotion Anxiety Elephants for Tween Girls Anxiety Elephants for Tween Boys

How many times have you wanted to start something but stopped because you think it may fail or you're not the one to do it. Maybe you think I can't do great things. What if we started things we feel a called to do even if it will fail. If we have our hearts in the right place it won't fail completely especially if we are helping others. God frequently chooses to accomplish great things through small beginnings. What we do for the Lord may seem small and insignificant at the time, but God celebrates what is right. Is there any such thing as a small deed in the hands of God? Billie's website Billie's books

Each of us is on earth to make an imprint on life. I pray our lives leave a legacy, not of what we accomplish but of what Jesus has done in and through our lives.  When you face challenges in life, seek to know what God wants you to do, and then do it. Do it with confidence that God will do His part.  You may not know ahead of time how He may accomplish His Will, but trust God and expect to be surprised by the ways God fulfills His desires. Listen to hear how God reveals our purpose in such a time as this.

Many times I've had great desires to do more. Be more. Make more of an impact. But with three young boys and a husband who was away from home eight months a year, I felt stuck. I often created a plan to do something I found valuable. Put in a splash of prayer and a pinch of trust in the Lord and ran. My arrogant assumption that I could accomplish it overran my belief that I needed God every step of the way. Jesus called the disciples to go. They left the crowd and their stressful day behind. Jesus told them to get into the boat and go to the other side. Other boats went along with them. The disciples trusted the Lord's direction enough to go with Him to a destination He determined. The other side. God promises to take us to the other side when He calls us to go with Him. God promises to take us to the other side when He calls us to go with Him. Listen to today's episode to hear how to dream so big only God can fulfill it. Can you to help out with the show? Subscribe to start small BELIEVE BIG where you listen Leave an honest review of the podcast. Thank you in advance for your review. Do you have a friend that the podcast may bless? Let them know! And remember you can find previous episodes on my website billiejauss.com

On today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG we get to hear from award-winning author Sarah Sundin. Sarah enjoys writing about the drama and romance of the World War II era. We are celebrating the release of Until Leaves Fall in Paris, releasing today, Her best-selling novel When Twilight Breaks was a 2021 Christy Award finalist, The Land Beneath Us was a Christy Award finalist, The Sky Above Us won the 2020 Carol Award, and The Sea Before Us received the 2019 Reader's Choice Award from Faith, Hope, and Love. Both When Tides Turn and Through Waters Deep were named to Booklist's “101 Best Romances of the Last 10 Years,” Through Waters Deep received the 2016 INSPY Award and was a 2016 Carol Award Finalist, and Sarah's novella “I'll Be Home for Christmas” in Where Treetops Glisten was a 2015 Carol Award Finalist. She also serves as co-director for the West Coast Christian Writers Conference. In her new novel Until Leaves Fall in Paris, she invites us onto the streets of occupied Paris to discover whether love or duty will prevail. In her newest novel.

There are many times in my life when I haven't felt like I belong. As I capture each negative thought, I tend to revisit many stages of my life and the beliefs that linger from each.  A new wife. A new mom. I was in fast-forward fake it until you make it mode. I had no clue what I was doing fighting the negative thoughts on the inside but emoting confidence on the outside. I felt like a phony. Today on the start small BELIEVE BIG Podcast we will learn the best thing to conquer discouragement. Billie's Website Preorder Distraction Detox Blog Post with expanded list of deceptions Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook

Despite the real-world challenges, we all face, the biggest and most complex obstacle you will ever have to personally overcome is your own mind. You can't always control the chaos going on around you, but you ARE responsible for undoing the self-limiting thought patterns you create. I tend to worry about what others think. But then I speak to myself worse than any other human would ever be allowed.  I am my biggest bully. Listen in to hear how to overcome the self-limiting thoughts we speak to ourselves. Billie's email billie@billiejauss.com Billie's website www.billiejauss.com Distraction Detox releasing 2-22-22 Sign up for the Daily Devotion Morning 'Son'shine

I tried to overcome a season of feeling unsettled and uncertain by simplifying my schedule and taking control of my life's chaos but it didn't solve all my issues.  I realized it wasn't the external distractions but the emotional barriers that were producing feelings of discouragement and defeat. Keeping me stuck, not growing in my Christian faith. Even though there weren't bad things happening I still found myself complaining. Each time one more thing came along, I began to talk myself out of stepping out in a new challenge. When my boys would call excited about life happening, I told myself I was a horrible mother and made a mental list of all the ways I failed. 2 Peter 3:18 Where are you spiritually stuck? Listen in to hear the root of spiritual jet lag. Let me know where you are stuck. billie@billiejauss.com www.billiejauss.com  

In today's episode we learn the 5 Step Process of choosing one word for a year of purpose.  Many years ago Billie gave up on resolutions. If she couldn't start a change mid-year she didn't do it. A few years ago Billie started picking One Word for the upcoming year. No resolutions, no goals... just One Word that gives meaning, mission, passion, and purpose. One Word that will help find peace and purpose. Proverbs 2:6-9 Also, Billie gives a few suggestions of words to ponder. And Billie reveals her word for the year. Billie's second book releases on 2-22-22. Distraction Detox: Release Emotional Barriers, Restructure Priorities, Realize God's Best Distractions can steal your joy and can definitely steal your purpose.  In Distraction Detox, we learn to get rid of those self-limiting thoughts, replace them with truth that brings peace and create a plan to step into our purpose. Join in the Distraction Detox discovering God's best for our lives, releasing confidence, peace, and fulfillment within us. Order here. Blog Post with a longer list of potential Word for the year.

On today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG we hear from award-winning author Laura Frantz. Christy Award-winning author, Laura Frantz, is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century. According to Publishers Weekly, "Frantz has done her historical homework." Today we welcome Laura to talk about her newest novel, A Heart Adrift where she whisks readers away to a time fraught with peril--on the sea and in the heart--in this redemptive, romantic story. Do you have a friend that the podcast or the devotions may bless? Let them know! Billie's website Billie's books Laura's website A Heart Adrift The Lacemaker

What do you want? Is a question that comes up a lot in marriage. From food to dates to how to discipline the kids. We tend to hold back from being honest with one another about what we want. Psalm 145:18 Psalm 145 celebrates the greatness and goodness of God.  David is singing the praises of the gracious provision of God who helps, hears, delivers, and guards those who call on Him. Our prayers should reflect the character of God as revealed in history, in Scripture, and most of all in Jesus Christ. Listen in to hear how Billie and her husband David direct prayers to build a stronger marriage. Billie would love for you to email her and let her know one change you will make in your prayer life. Before you go, we'd like to let you know about the daily devotion sent out Monday-Friday mornings. Join our amazing community of humans taking a little time each morning to dig into God's Word. When you sign up for Morning ‘Sonshine', you will receive a little encouragement in your inbox each morning. The devotion starts with scripture, then a short teaching, and ends with a quick prayer. We'd love to have you join us! I promise no spam, just Jesus and me. You can find the link in the show notes or billiejauss.com.    

Looking to the Lord for instruction and guidance will allow the Lord to guide and lead us. He will not MAKE you do anything. We have free Will and choice. Take the Lord's advice, do not let your stubbornness keep you from the blessings of God. Are you ready to leave what's holding you back behind and begin to carry truth with you in every step, decision, and action? Listen to today's episode for the 5 Truths To Know For Spiritual Growth. Can I ask you to help out with the show? Subscribe to start small BELIEVE BIG where you listen Leave an honest review of the podcast. Thank you in advance for your review. Do you have a friend that the podcast may bless? Let them know!

After some life difficulties, I went to a dear friend for some girl time talking. I wasn't following Jesus the way she did, and I wanted to know how she did it. After a conversation about my faith, I realized what I had, wasn't as good as what Jesus offered. Many disciples turned away from following Jesus. Even when they were face to face with him, he knows we doubt at times, but we have to continually evaluate why we don't follow Him completely. In today's episode, we learn about the five things to leave behind to strengthen our faith. I want to let you know about the daily devotion I send out Monday-Friday mornings.   Join our amazing community of humans taking a little time each morning to dig into God's Word.   When you sign up for Morning' Sonshine', you will receive a little encouragement in your inbox each morning. The devotion starts with scripture, then a short teaching, and ends with a quick prayer. We'd love to have you join us! I promise no spam, just Jesus and me. You can find the link in the show notes or on my website www.billiejauss.com.

In today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG, we get to hear from author Natalie Walters. We hear about her new book and how God works in and through her life. Natalie is the author of Carol Award finalist Living Lies, Deadly Deceit, and Silent Shadows. As a military wife, she currently resides in Texas with her soldier husband and is a proud mom of three adult kiddos. She has been published in Proverbs 31 magazine and has blogged for Guideposts online. Can I ask all of you listening to help out with the show? Subscribe to start small BELIEVE BIG where you listen Leave an honest review of the podcast. Thank you in advance for your review. Do you have a friend that the podcast may bless? Let them know! And remember you can find previous episodes on my Website  I pray this podcast has encouraged you to allow Jesus to work in and through your life, one step, decision, and action at a time. Natalie's contact information: Website Facebook Instagram Twitter Newsletter

My heart broke when a friend called to tell me about her wonderful time with a mutual friend. I was crushed because I'd been calling and texting that friend, trying to coordinate a time to get together. When the friend who called told me about their last-minute rendezvous, it was hard to control my emotions. I was angry and hurt. I introduced these two. I was friends with each of them first. Such an immature response. In today's episode, we learn how to love with nothing in return from the person but blessings from God. Do you know about the daily devotion I send out Monday-Friday mornings? Join our amazing community of humans taking a little time each morning to dig into God's Word. When you sign up for Morning ‘Sonshine', you will receive a little encouragement in your inbox each morning. The devotion starts with scripture, then a short teaching, and ends with a quick prayer. We'd love to have you join us! I promise no spam, just Jesus and me.

Growing up many of my friends got married right out of high school. I remember my mother sharing with me that she was praying I would marry the boy I was dating. He was a nice enough guy but I had aspirations to go to college and become a nurse. At church the next Sunday the preacher taught about God's Will versus our Will. Let's just say I prayed for God's Will to be to my liking, not my mom's. I wasn't too confident in my prayers being answered because haven't we all prayed for something we desperately want or need and it doesn't happen? In today's episode, we talk about praying with confidence for God's Will not our own, with boldness. Can I ask you to help out with the show? Subscribe to start small BELIEVE BIG where you listen Leave an honest review of the podcast. Thank you in advance for your review. And if this podcast has encouraged you...tell a friend!

It seems like we are in a world of division and debate, or shall I say argument. In the midst of cancel culture, even within the church. If we don't believe exactly as another does, an argument ensues. Churches are preaching politics and conspiracy theories. Using God's Word to solidify their beliefs. Not as God intended but manipulated to support their newfound idols. Politics. Opinions. Rights. My spirit has been shaken. I have friends whom I've lost because I refuse to believe in their ideology rather than God's Word. I'm not going to argue with anyone about their beliefs. But I will stand firm on fulfilling God's calling. To glorify Him in all things. Philippians 4:9 Do you want to find peace? Today's episode encourages us to put what we have learned into practice. Do you know about the daily devotion I send out Monday-Friday mornings? Join our amazing community of humans taking a little time each morning to dig into God's Word. When you sign up for Morning' Sonshine', you will receive a little encouragement in your inbox each morning. The devotion starts with scripture, then a short teaching, and ends with a quick prayer. We'd love to have you join us! I promise no spam, just Jesus and me.   

1 Thessalonians 2:13 Paul commended the Thessalonians for continuing the work learned in the Word of God. Paul knew that God's words were not mere sermons or documents but a real source of transforming power.  The Bible is our resource of living power. The words are transforming lives every day. Are you one of them? When we genuinely seek to learn will be touched by its power, and we will never be the same. Can you help out with the show? Subscribe to start small BELIEVE BIG where you listen Leave an honest review of the podcast. Thank you in advance for your review. I pray this podcast has encouraged you to allow Jesus to work in and through your life; one step, one decision, and one action at a time.

"But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil." Hebrews 5:14 To grow from infant Christians to mature Christians, we must learn discernment. We train our minds, bodies, and senses to distinguish food from evil. Another critical thing to discern is what is life-giving and what is not. In today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG, you will learn what is life-giving and what is not. What do we need to worry about? What do we need to ponder, and what do I need to let go? I want to let you know about the daily devotion I send out Monday-Friday mornings. Join our amazing community of humans taking a little time each morning to dig into God's Word. When you sign up for Morning' Sonshine', you will receive a little encouragement in your inbox each morning. The devotion starts with scripture, then a short teaching, and ends with a quick prayer. We'd love to have you join us! I promise no spam, just Jesus and me. 

What do you need to focus on to live a mature Christian life? Hebrews 5:13 Part of the reason the people in this verse were so forgetful of what they had learned is they were not digging deep into God's word. The author talks about the people being unskilled. Their understanding of their faith was weak; they didn't know nearly as much about God's Word as they should. They needed to dig deep. In today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG podcast, listen to how we can dig deep and remember His promises and the fruit he has already placed in us. Can I ask you to help out with the show? Subscribe to start small BELIEVE BIG where you listen Leave an honest review of the podcast. Thank you in advance for your review.

“In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again. You need milk, not solid food!” Hebrews 5:12 When my kids were little, it seemed like they forgot two for every lesson I taught them.  In this verse, the author of Hebrews is frustrated with the mature Christians who forgot what they had been taught.  When we talk about spiritual growth, we have to talk about our strengths and weakness.  In today's episode, I share a few of my frustrations. It gets real and transparent. One small step at a time, the goal is always to be better than we were yesterday. Do you know about the daily devotion I send out Monday-Friday mornings? Join our amazing community of humans taking a little time each morning to dig into God's Word. When you sign up for Morning ‘Sonshine', you will receive a little encouragement in your inbox each morning. The devotion starts with scripture, then a short teaching, and ends with a quick prayer. We'd love to have you join us! I promise no spam, just Jesus and me. You can find the link in the show notes or on my website billiejauss.com.  

Today I want to introduce you to my friend, author Ann Van Hine. Ann lost her husband, a New York City firefighter, on September 11th, 2001. She shares her story of personal loss amid a national tragedy in her recently released memoir, Pieces Falling: navigating 9/11 with faith, family & the FDNY. Ann believes that the stories of September 11, 2001 are like a mosaic. The stories don't fit together like a puzzle. Instead, they lay next to each other to form the larger narrative of what happened that day and since. Can I ask you to help out with the show? Subscribe to start small BELIEVE BIG where you listen Leave an honest review of the podcast. Thank you in advance for your review. Do you have a friend that the podcast may bless? Let them know!

As I completed my 55th year, God challenged me again. Read the Bible in one year. I read scripture every day but I felt the nudge for a fresh understanding. I use The One Year Bible to read each morning. Lazy ears make for a sluggish faith. I pray our ears are open to hearing what God wants to say to me through His Word. Hebrews 5:11 We should never become lazy about hearing God's truth or desensitize ourselves to the message of God. Being lazy of hearing is a great way to stop growing. We can do this together, with Him. Listen to hear how to pause, perceive, and persevere as we grow. I want to let you know about the daily devotion I send out Monday-Friday mornings. Join our amazing community of humans taking a little time each morning to dig into God's Word. When you sign up for Morning ‘Sonshine', you will receive a little encouragement in your inbox each morning. The devotion starts with scripture, then a short teaching, and ends with a quick prayer. We'd love to have you join us! I promise no spam, just Jesus and me. You can find the link in the show notes or on my website billiejauss.com.  

People-pleasing is my nemesis. I like to be liked. We post to get likes. We follow to get followed. We think we put boundaries on safety but then share personal accounts of our lives. Over time we conform to the algorithms, patterns, successful advice to get more likes follows, and contacts. We let outside opinions shape our lives. Or the lack of. If we want lasting change in our lives we have to transform our minds. Can I ask you to help out with the show? Subscribe to start small BELIEVE BIG where you listen and leave an honest review of the podcast. Thank you in advance for your review.  

I struggle at times with the purpose of my ministry.   I didn't strive to start a ministry, to write, or to podcast. I have done most out of obedience to the Lord and some out of what people said I should do. Each day we must find some way to draw closer to Christ. And in doing so, we are prepared to stand for truth in any and all circumstances. Listen to today's episode of start small BELIEVE BIG to learn more about how we can grow closer to Christ. I want to let you know about the daily devotion I send out Monday-Friday mornings. Join our amazing community of humans taking a little time each morning to dig into God's Word. When you sign up for Morning ‘Sonshine', you will receive a little encouragement in your inbox each morning. The devotion starts with scripture, then a short teaching, and ends with a quick prayer. We'd love to have you join us! I promise no spam, just Jesus and me. You can find the link in the show notes or on my website billiejauss.com.

My middle son's girlfriend took a picture of my husband and three sons after my husband was part of the Major League Baseball Home Run Derby. As any mother or father knows, the process of raising a child is rich with emotions, uncertainties, joys, and sorrows.  Thank God there's an endless well of comfort, advice, and quotes about gratitude to be found in the Bible.  Looking at the joy of our sons' faces, how proud they were of their father, the respect that oozed out in the sparkle of their eyes. My first thought is they are all grown up…I survived. And they grew up. God wants us to grow up, know the whole truth and tell it in love—like Christ in everything. We take our lead from Christ, who is the source of everything we do.  His goal for us is to mature and develop the characteristics of Jesus, living a life of love and humble service. Listen to hear How To Grow Up Can I ask you to help out with the show? Subscribe to start small BELIEVE BIG where you listen Leave an honest review of the podcast. Thank you in advance for your review.    

When God helps us grow spiritually, he doesn't just snap his fingers so that it happens instantly. He does it in small steps. When God made a mushroom, he created it to grow to maturity in six hours, but he had it take 60 years to grow up when he made an oak tree. Today's episode shares the first steps to spiritual growth. I want to let you know about the daily devotion I send out Monday-Friday mornings. Join our amazing community of humans taking a little time each morning to dig into God's Word. When you sign up for Morning ‘Sonshine', you will receive a little encouragement in your inbox each morning. The devotion starts with scripture, then a short teaching, and ends with a quick prayer. We'd love to have you join us! I promise no spam, just Jesus and me. You can find the link in the show notes or on my website billiejauss.com.  

Our minds are a suggestion box. Every thought you have is a suggestion, not an order. Sometimes our minds suggest that we are tired, give up, or take an easier path.  But if we pause, we can discover new suggestions. For example, we will feel good once the work is done or that we have the ability to finish things even when we don't feel like it. Your thoughts are not orders. Merely suggestions. You have the power to choose which option to follow. In this episode, learn how to change your mind, decrease anxiety and find peace. Can I ask you to help out with the show? Subscribe to start small BELIEVE BIG where you listen Leave an honest review of the podcast. Thank you in advance for your review.

We do not make this mental and emotional effort to seek God because he is lost. That's why we would seek a coin or a sheep. But God is not lost. Setting our minds is the opposite of mental coasting. It is a conscious choice to direct our hearts toward God. It is a conscious effort. That effort to seek God is a gift.   There is always something we must go through which or around to meet Him purposefully. The navigation of going through or around is what seeking is. Listen to hear how to make a conscious effort to seek the Lord. I want to let you know about the daily devotion I send out Monday-Friday mornings. Join our amazing community of humans taking a little time each morning to dig into God's Word. When you sign up for Morning ‘Son'shine, you will receive a little encouragement in your inbox each morning. The devotion starts with scripture, then a short teaching, and ends with a quick prayer. We'd love to have you join us! I promise no spam, just Jesus and me. You can find the link in the show notes or on my website billiejauss.com.  

I'm not afraid of death, when I die I will be celebrating face to face with Jesus. I'm mostly concerned about leaving my family behind and their anger toward God if it happened. But after losing my sister, I became more and more worried about losing another family member. My husband. My kids. Other siblings. My mom. I was sitting in the stands with the sun shining bright when my oldest sister once again called with terrible news. My brother had died. I was stunned. Shocked. Scared. Terror filled me. I called other family members with the baseball crowd roaring after a walk-off win. When I shared with a dear Christian friend that I was struggling with fear and doubt she asked what scripture I was meditating on. I have a list, but I really hadn't been meditating on them. Just reading them and begging God to change my fear into faith. Listen in to hear how to meditate on scripture. Can I ask you to help out with the show? Subscribe to start small BELIEVE BIG where you listen Leave an honest review of the podcast. Thank you in advance for your review. I pray this podcast has encouraged you to allow Jesus to work in and through your life; one step, one decision, and one action at a time. Let a friend know!  

Sitting in the lobby of the church a friend came up and began to tell me how she was praying for a woman in our church. Her description of her prayers were more informative than they should have been, and I took the bait. I asked questions for more information, gave a few observations of my own, and shared how the woman should and shouldn't behave. We weren't sitting there praying for the woman. We had slipped into gossip so easily. We hadn't spoken a word of blessing but torn the woman down. A moment I'm not proud of but learned so much about gossip and how to become a blessing builder, not a gabby gossipmonger. Listen in to hear how You Can Be A Blessing Builder I want to let you know about the daily devotion I send out Monday-Friday mornings. Join our amazing community of humans taking a little time each morning to dig into God's Word. When you sign up for Morning ‘Sonshine', you will receive a little encouragement in your inbox each morning. The devotion starts with scripture, then a short teaching, and ends with a quick prayer. We'd love to have you join us! I promise no spam, just Jesus and me.