CONFIDENCE in YOUR CALLING | Courageous, Obedience, Christian Women, Nervous System Regulation, Boundaries, Clarity, Purpose, Inspiration, Faith, Fear, Time Management

I’m sure you’ve never wondered, “What’s my purpose? Why was I created?” …. So I’m pretty sure all of us have asked ourselves that at one point or another.  The Bible is pretty clear on why we were created… to reflect the image of God into this world. Because of sin that entered the world… we reflect that image through Jesus… through Jesus we can come to God… through Jesus we can see the image of God in the mirror instead of the broken and distorted glass that sin created in our lives. Thank you Jesus!  Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.   Scripture referenced: Genesis 1:27 John 4:19 John 14:6 Jeremiah 1:5   By growing in love with Jesus and seeking the Lord… we are healed over time or at times, instantly… the more we heal from sin… the more we reflect God into the world. We all have sin and we all are called to God. The only way to be restored is by answering that call. It’s not new age healing modalities… those may bring temporary and limited relief… Jesus is the true and everlasting deep soul healing. Be blessed! If you happen to be in the market to buy or sell a home in Florida… I am a Faith-led REALTOR® in Florida and fully enjoy real estate as my “tent-making” and serving others to help them into their next piece of paradise 🏡 🩵 Cell: 815-979-5333 email: [email protected] **Sorry, a snippet of the audio cut out as I am reverting back to on-the-go podcasting tools… I have a lot to share but tech seems to be a consistent barrier for me 😂**   Love, Dawn Shurley   

What if our possessions in our homes are a slow... or fast leak in our cup of peace... and are distracting us from what matters most? In this episode of Confidence in Your Calling, I'll share a powerful spiritual metaphor about pruning plants and how it reflects the way we manage our possessions, priorities, and energy. Just as plants struggle to produce healthy fruit when nourishment is spread across dead or overcrowded branches, we can become overwhelmed by the constant maintenance of things that no longer serve our lives or our current season. Through biblical wisdom, practical reflection, and encouragement, this episode explores: How possessions can quietly consume our time and energy The connection between material possessions and internal peace Biblical teachings on pruning, simplicity, and fruitfulness Why God removes distractions so healthy growth can flourish How creating margin in your home creates space for connection, purpose, and rest Featuring reflections from: Ecclesiastes John Hebrews Luke If you’re feeling mentally overloaded... emotionally exhausted... or weighed down by “too much,” this episode will encourage you to slow down, simplify, and prayerfully prune what no longer bears good fruit. Love, Dawn Shurley #ChristianPodcast #Decluttering #Minimalism #FaithBasedPodcast #SpiritualGrowth #BiblicalWisdom #IntentionalLiving #PeacefulHome #ChristianEncouragement #Fruitfulness      

In this episode of Confidence in Your Calling, we dive into the Book of Job to explore the danger of forcing divine mystery into human logic. Why do we automatically assume suffering must be punishment? Why do we feel the need to explain every painful situation with predictable formulas? Through Job’s devastating losses, emotional wrestling, and conversations with his friends, this episode uncovers how human reasoning can sometimes distort our understanding of God. We will break down the tension between logic and faith… the assumptions made by Job’s friends… and the deeper message behind God’s response in Job 38–41. This conversation explores how suffering is not always a reflection of personal failure… why God cannot be reduced to human equations…  and how faith sometimes requires trusting God without receiving the answers we hoped for. If you’ve ever wrestled with confusion, grief, unanswered questions, or the pressure to “make sense” of your pain… this episode will encourage you to release the need for complete understanding and lean into humility, trust, and the mystery of God’s wisdom. Topics Discussed: The deeper meaning behind the story of Job Why suffering cannot always be explained logically The danger of reducing God to predictable formulas Job’s friends and the assumption that suffering equals punishment Elihu’s role in the conversation Trusting God beyond human understanding Faith, grief, confusion, and spiritual humility Proverbs 3:5 and surrendering human reasoning to God Scriptures Referenced: Book of Job Proverbs 3:5 Job 38–41 Love,   Dawn Shurley    Keywords: Book of Job explained, Christian podcast, faith during suffering, trusting God without answers, suffering and faith, biblical wisdom, Christian encouragement, Job and suffering, understanding God, spiritual growth, Christian women podcast, trusting God in difficult times, biblical perspective on suffering, faith beyond logic    

In this week’s episode, we take a deep, healing look into 1 Peter 1:2 — and uncover how father wounds can quietly shape the way women relate to God as Father. Whether you grew up with a loving father… an emotionally absent father… an abusive father… or no father figure at all… wounds can still form in the hidden places of the heart. Those experiences can affect how we receive love & protection, depth of peace, and even the truth that God intentionally chose us. Together, we explore: • What it means to be “chosen” by God the Father • The deeper biblical meaning of “foreknowledge” as relational intimacy • How sanctification is both instant and ongoing • The difference between self-produced change and Holy Spirit transformation • Why striving exhausts us, but surrender heals us • How the Holy Spirit gently reveals wounds, heals triggers, and transforms us from the inside out • What it truly means to live in relationship with God — not as a distant visitor, but as His beloved daughter and bride (Don’t let that combo trip you up… it’s spiritual :) ) This episode is an invitation to stop striving for God’s love and begin resting in it. If you’ve ever struggled to fully believe you are chosen, deeply loved, protected, pursued, or worthy of peace… this episode is for you. So grab a cup of coffee, settle your heart, and join me as we marinate in the truth of God’s grace, healing, and presence through 1 Peter 1:2.   “God the Father chose you long ago…” — and that changes everything   Love, Dawn Shurley 

In this episode, we explore how shifting our perspective—by viewing life through the lens of Scripture... changes the way we experience life... and life's challenges. We will focus on rejoicing in all circumstances, not because life is always easy, but because of who God is and His unwavering love for us.  We will break this message into three key truths: 1. The Truth of God’s Character God is faithful, loving, and keeps His promises. Even when circumstances seem unclear, Scripture shows that He is always working with purpose and for our good. Because of His character, we can trust His guidance and rejoice... even in trials. 2. The Truth About Challenges Hardships are not meaningless. According to God’s Word, trials build endurance, strengthen character, and deepen hope. God actively works through all things—both good and difficult... for the benefit of those who love Him. 3. The Gift of Free Will We are given the choice in how we respond to life’s challenges. While it’s natural to feel frustration or pain, choosing trust, surrender, and even joy allows us to experience God’s peace and purpose more fully. I want to encourage you to embrace a mindset of surrender... trusting that God knows the outcome and is always working behind the scenes. By grounding ourselves daily in these truths, we can shift from resistance to rejoicing, even in the midst of trials. We close with a simple invitation: reflect on these truths each morning and observe how your perspective... and your week... begins to change. Love you, Dawn Shurley  

Do you want a fresh lens on fiery trials? In this episode, we dive into the Book of Daniel chapter 3 and the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who stood firm in their faith even when faced with the fiery furnace. What was meant to destroy them became the very place where God showed His power and presence. We reflect on how life’s “fires” refine us and strengthen our faith, our character, and exposes pride in order to draw us closer to God rather than away from Him. This episode invites you to see your trials through a new lens… not as punishment, but as purposeful refinement. Love, Dawn Shurley 

In this episode of Confidence In Your Calling, we will adventure into the powerful story of Nehemiah and what it teaches us about prayer, purpose, and perseverance in the face of opposition. Nehemiah had "made it".  He had position, comfort, and influence. But when he heard about the broken state of Jerusalem, he didn’t ignore it… he let it move him. Instead of rushing to fix things in his own strength, he began with prayer—deep, honest, surrendered prayer. From that foundation, God orchestrated everything: the timing, the favor, and the provision. This episode explores what it truly means to walk in step with God rather than relying on our own understanding. We will unpack how Nehemiah’s journey mirrors our own lives today...especially when we feel called to rebuild areas that are broken, whether it’s our peace, purpose, boundaries, or faith. You’ll be encouraged to: Pray first instead of reacting Trust God’s timing instead of forcing outcomes Stay focused when distractions and opposition arise Step out of comfort and into calling Keep building—even when it gets hard Because just like Nehemiah, when you commit to doing God’s will, opposition will come—but so will provision, protection, and purpose. If you’ve been feeling the weight of something broken in your life or sensing a calling you’ve been hesitant to step into, this episode is your reminder: don’t come down. Stay focused. Keep building. What feels impossible can be restored—with God. Grab your coffee, settle in, and let this message realign your heart. Love, Dawn

In this episode, we explore the balance between making plans and surrendering to God’s will. Through personal reflection, scripture, and a meaningful dream, you’ll be encouraged to trust God’s guidance while still taking action in your life. If you’re facing decisions and seeking clarity, this conversation will remind you that God walks with you—guiding, redirecting, and faithfully leading every step of the way.   Love,   Dawn Shurley

It’s easy to rely on what we can see, calculate, and control… but God invites us into a completely different way of making decisions. In this episode, we explore what it means to align with God’s wisdom instead of leaning on our own understanding. While His way can feel uncomfortable and unpredictable, it leads to deeper peace, clarity, and purpose. You’ll learn why human wisdom is limited, how God’s perspective is far greater, and three simple but powerful practices to help you live this out daily: pausing before decisions, filtering your thoughts through truth, and choosing obedience… even when it’s hard. If you’ve ever struggled with uncertainty, overthinking, or trying to control outcomes, this episode will encourage you to trust that God’s wisdom is always better… and always worth following.  Love, Dawn Shurley 

Are you struggling to trust God fully or wondering how to walk in confident obedience even when it feels hard? In this powerful episode, we break down 5 simple, practical ways to walk in obedience to God and experience the peace, clarity, and blessings that come from a surrendered, God-led life. Obedience to God isn’t about perfection or rigid rules—it’s about heart posture, trust, and daily surrender. If you’ve ever felt stuck between what you feel and what God is asking of you, this episode will help you realign your heart, strengthen your faith, and move forward with confidence. Inside this episode, you’ll learn: What obedience to God really means in everyday life Why trusting God can feel difficult (especially when emotions are involved) How to hear and follow the Holy Spirit’s guidance 5 practical, biblical ways to grow in obedience daily The spiritual blessings of obedience, including peace, purpose, and deeper intimacy with God Whether you’re in a season of waiting, being called to let go, or stepping into something new and uncomfortable, this episode will encourage you to trust God’s plan over your own understanding. Love, Dawn Shurley

Have you ever sensed that something wasn’t quite right, even when it seemed godly on the surface? In this episode of Confidence in Your Calling – Courageous Obedience for Christian Women, we will explore the powerful connection between the Belt of Truth and the gift of discernment, and how using them together can guide you in God’s Kingdom work. Learn how the Belt of Truth anchors you in God’s Word, protecting you from deception and keeping your decisions aligned with His will. Discover how discernment alerts you when something feels off, sharpening your spiritual perception and helping you distinguish truth from almost-right. We will touch on personal stories, biblical insights, and practical tips for growing this spiritual “muscle” in your everyday life. Whether you’re navigating complex situations, ministry opportunities, or everyday decisions, this episode will help you step confidently in God’s guidance, recognize the subtle cues of the Holy Spirit, and act with faith and clarity. Tune in and strengthen your discernment, stand firm in God’s truth, and walk boldly in your calling. Scripture referenced: Ephesians 6:14 “Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness.” 1 Corinthians 12:10 He gives one person the power to perform miracles, another the ability to prophesy, and another the ability to discern whether a message is from the Spirit of God or another spirit. Hebrews 5:14 “But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.” Matthew 4 Jesus resists Satan in the wilderness by recognizing deception and responding with Scripture. 1 Corinthians 14:4 “A person who speaks in tongues is strengthened personally, but one who speaks a word of prophecy strengthens the entire church.” 1 Corinthians 14:27-28 “No more than two or three should speak in tongues. They must speak one at a time, and someone must interpret…” 1 Corinthians 14:33 “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.” 1 Corinthians 14:40 “But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.” For 1-on-1 Biblical Life Coaching:  [email protected] Love,  Dawn

Are boundaries actually biblical? Many Christian women feel pressure to be constantly available, endlessly giving, and never say no, in the name of kindness. But Scripture paints a different picture. The Bible teaches that wisdom includes guarding what God has entrusted to us—our hearts, our thoughts, our peace, our nervous system, and our calling. Boundary setting is one of those things that doesn't seem to come easy. I struggled for years with speaking my truth and setting clear boundaries... whether verbally for others to hear or internally for my personal walk with God.   When I realized that boundary setting was actually biblical... the guilt melted away and my confidence grew in boundary setting. In this episode, we explore the powerful truth behind Proverbs 4:23: “Above all else, guard your heart.” What does it really mean to guard your heart? And how do healthy spiritual boundaries protect both you and the people around you? We’ll walk through biblical wisdom from Proverbs and the New Testament to understand why boundaries are not selfish—they are a form of spiritual discipline and protection. You’ll also learn how the Armor of God acts as spiritual boundaries that guard your mind, heart, and peace against deception, pressure, guilt, and spiritual attack. In this episode we discuss: • Why guarding your heart is a command, not a suggestion • The difference between kindness and unhealthy access • How Jesus modeled healthy boundaries in His own life • The connection between thoughts, heart posture, and spiritual fruit • Recognizing spiritual pressure, guilt, and manipulation • Practical everyday boundaries Christian women are called to practice • How the Armor of God protects your heart, mind, and calling You’ll leave this episode encouraged to protect your peace, stand firm in truth, and live with wisdom that keeps your heart safe. Because boundaries are not selfish. They are wise instruction from a loving Father. Scripture Referenced: Proverbs 4:23 “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Proverbs 1:5–7 The purpose of wisdom and discipline. Proverbs 4:6 “Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you.” Philippians 4:8 Fix your thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, and lovely. 1 Thessalonians 5:21 “Test everything; hold on to what is good.” Luke 5:15–16 Jesus withdraws from crowds to pray. Acts 6:1–4 The apostles set boundaries and delegate responsibilities. 1 Corinthians 15:33 “Bad company corrupts good character.” Proverbs 20:3 “It is to one’s honor to avoid strife.” Galatians 6:5 “For each one should carry their own load.” Ephesians 6:10–17 The Armor of God. Romans 8:1 “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” James 4:7 “Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” To work 1-on-1 with me: email [email protected] to set up a free discovery call to see if we are a good fit. Have a blessed week... with a calm heart. Love, Dawn Shurley  

Is stress quietly stealing from you? In this powerful episode of Confidence in Your Calling – Courageous Obedience for Christian Women, we confront something that feels normal in today’s world—but is deeply disruptive to your identity and assignment in Christ. Stress isn’t just about busy schedules. Chronic, identity-shaking stress disconnects you from who you truly are in Jesus. And when you lose connection to your identity, your calling begins to feel heavy, forced, and performance-driven instead of peaceful and Spirit-led. Through Scripture—including Philippians 4:6–7, Psalm 46:10, John 5:15, Ephesians 2:10, and Matthew 11—you’ll discover: Why stress leaves your heart and mind unguarded How anxiety shifts you into control mode instead of surrendered obedience The subtle ways stress distorts your identity and silences your feminine design Why fruit flows from abiding—not hustling How to discern what God actually assigned to you (and what pressure pushed you into) You’ll also learn practical, faith-filled rhythms to protect your peace—because stillness, nervous system care, Sabbath, and clear boundaries aren’t indulgences. They are spiritual disciplines. If you’ve been feeling stretched thin, reactive, or disconnected from joy in your calling, this episode will realign you with truth: Your calling begins with identity. Your fruit flows from abiding. And your peace is not optional—it is protective. It’s time to release stress as a badge of honor and pick up peace as a weapon of obedience. You were never meant to strive for fruit. You were designed to abide.     Love, Dawn Shurley

The world can be loud but there are simple ways to create space to hear God's voice more clearly in our daily lives.  In this episode I give you 3 simple ways to make room to hear God's voice, all while getting stronger... building confidence... and creating a more efficient home.  Hearing God's Voice --> Clarity --> Peace --> Walking confidently in our God-given callings Scripture Referenced: Isaiah 55:8-9 Psalm 119:105 John 10:27 Matthew 6:19-21 Proverbs 31:17 --------------------------------- Start Small until it's an embedded habit and then expand: 1) Morning PB&J (Prayer, Bible, Journal) (10 min) 2) Weight Lifting with Worship Music (20-30 min) 3) Decluttering & Donating (10 min) Creating space in our home, creating space in our mind from a regulated nervous system, consuming scripture and worship music... all in less than 5 hours a week. Christian Life Coaching: Work with me - [email protected] Love, Dawn Shurley

We all have callings on our lives and we are called to courageous obedience in those callings.  We are all called to build our lives upon the Rock through God's Word and faith in His good and perfect ways.  From there we have callings as to how we date, our marriages, our parenting and then to our ministries and community outreach.  What a beautiful place it is when we align our life with God's Will. I pray you listen and leave this episode with inspiration and direction on your next steps to aligning with God in your calling, which brings confidence abundantly. To work with me 1-on-1: [email protected] Scripture Referenced: Hebrews 10:23 Romans 12:2   Referenced Episodes: God's Promise Revealed: https://growclosertojesus.podbean.com/e/1-the-christmas-announcement-of-jesus-christ/ God's Promise In Motion: https://growclosertojesus.podbean.com/e/02-the-christmas-announcement-of-jesus-christ-god-s-promise-in-motion/ God's Promise Fulfilled in the Birth of the Messiah: https://growclosertojesus.podbean.com/e/the-christmas-announcement-god-s-promise-fulfilled/   I love you! We are all blessed when Christian women walk more and more in their callings and shine their calming feminine essence out into the world! Warm Hugs, Dawn Shurley      

Hello, Friend! I am so glad you are here! Welcome to Confidence in Your Calling Podcast! If you are seeking to discover your calling and/or courageously walk in your calling, you are in the right place.  Here you will find inspiration, support, and community... because sometimes all we need is to know there are other women going through the same struggles as us.  Confidence and obedience do not come naturally to everyone... but the more intimately we do life with God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit... we walk in God-fidence and Faith in God's character. If you are ready to do life intimately with God, awaken your calling, and get your life in order... this is your go-to podcast!   Love, Dawn Shurley 1-On-1 Clarity and Confidence Coaching: [email protected]  

If you’ve ever felt anxiety, overwhelm, or tense… there is a good chance your thoughts were anchored in a shifting sea of the world’s identity metrics. Basing our identity on the ever changing world… we lose our footing and therefore, let go of the peace God gives us.  If we can make it a priority to slow down… and seek God first… we can anchor in the Identity He gives us… and then we are grounded and feel secure, even when the world around us shifts.  This episode shares the Bible story of Martha and Mary. The two sisters with different priorities. Neither are “wrong”, in their self… work is not bad… and serving is beautiful… but being present with the Lord is what Jesus wants with you first… and then you’ll be more at peace when you do go out to serve.  Thank you for being YOU and Doing Life WITH GOD 🩵 For Christian Life Coaching: [email protected]   Love, Dawn Shurley 

Trusting in the Lord is not easy when we focus on circumstances… but when we focus on the character of God… we know our trust is safe with Him. The Word of God is a well of peace and wisdom.  Scripture:  Deuteronomy 6:5 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 Psalm 9:10 Matthew 6:33 Matthew 7:24-25 Proverbs 3:5-6 Hebrews 13:8 Lamentations 3:22-23 Romans 8:28 Psalm 34:8 ><> ><> ><> ><> If you would like give your life to Christ:   Jesus, I come to You just as I am. I believe You are the Son of God, that You died for my sins and rose again. I confess that I need You. Forgive me, cleanse me, and make me new. I turn away from my old life and surrender myself fully to You. Be my Savior, my Lord, and my King. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and lead my life from this day forward. I trust You with my past, my present, and my future. Thank You, Amen   Joyfully, Dawn Shurley

It is easy for anxiety to get the best of us when storms come. The unknown can cause fear. But the Bible tells us to have Faith over Fear. Today we will look at when Jesus calms the storm from multiple angles. Scripture: Matthew 8:23-27 Reflection: Am I so anchored in Christ that my peace surpasses all understanding when storms come… or do I go into a state of anxiety and call out for Jesus to help because I have not fully anchored myself in Him that day?  We don’t reflect to trigger guilt… we reflect to get honest with ourselves on what steps we can take to grow closer to Jesus. 🩵      

The parables of Jesus are visuals to help us learn about the Kingdom of God. Today we will hear from the mouth of Jesus, the parable of the farmer scattering seed.  Scripture: Matthew 13:1-23 Proverbs 2:3-6 James 1:5 1 Corinthians 2:12 Invitation for Reflection: Lord, help me understand Your Word. How would You like me to allow Your Word deeper into my heart? What worries, desires, or distractions are present that could choke Your Word before it truly starts to grow in my heart? Help me to become aware and journal them. Prayer: Jesus, You are the Sower, and Your Word is always good. Search my heart. Gently breakup and hardness. Gently remove every stone of pride, every thorn of distraction. Make me good soil — soft, surrendered, and ready to bear fruit for Your Glory. Amen.  ><> ><> ><> ><> If you would like give your life to Christ:   Jesus, I come to You just as I am. I believe You are the Son of God, that You died for my sins and rose again. I confess that I need You. Forgive me, cleanse me, and make me new. I turn away from my old life and surrender myself fully to You. Be my Savior, my Lord, and my King. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and lead my life from this day forward. I trust You with my past, my present, and my future. Thank You, Amen Joyfully, Dawn Shurley   

Let’s get to know Jesus’ Heart by going deeper into scripture and see what He would do if misunderstood and criticized. Matthew 11:25-30 Matthew 11:16-19 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Romans 12:2 Isaiah 55:8-9 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>  Keywords: Bible Study, Daily Devotional, Prayer, Scripture, The Chosen, Jesus Christ, Humility, How to be humble, how to find peace, surrender to God, Bible Verses Joyfully, Dawn Shurley 

Have you been wanting to grow closer to Jesus? Join me in talking about how to instantly deepen your relationship with God. John 3:8 Titus 3:5 Jeremiah 1:5 Psalm 33:13-15 Psalm 139:4 Hebrews 4:13 1 Chronicles 28:9 John 1:17 John 3:16-17 ><> ><> If you would like give your life to Christ:   Jesus, I come to You just as I am. I believe You are the Son of God, that You died for my sins and rose again. I confess that I need You. Forgive me, cleanse me, and make me new. I turn away from my old life and surrender myself fully to You. Be my Savior, my Lord, and my King. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and lead my life from this day forward. I trust You with my past, my present, and my future. Thank You, Amen   Joyfully, Dawn Shurley

After 42 generations of God holding to His promise to Abraham… and the prophet Isaiah’s message of a virgin birth, the One who will defeat Satan… and bless all families… is finally conceived. Let us praise Jesus this Christmas and every day. Blessings, Dawn Shurley

This Christmas Season let’s appreciate that because of Abraham’s faith, and our Good God… God’s promise was fulfilled. Through Abraham’s bloodline, the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, came to fruition. Merry Christmas! Dawn Shurley

The Bible is full of intricate threaded storyline from the start of creation… pointing toward the birth of Jesus, for thousands of years… and far beyond. The Word is alive and life giving. It’s clear why the Bible is the most purchased and read book of all time. Thank you God for the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. This is the first episode of Grow Closer to Jesus. Thank you for joining on this journey.