Reading Between the Lines

In this episode, I tackle the challenge of unanswered prayer and the disappointment it can bring to faith. I share biblical insight and practical strategies for: strengthening belief, aligning your words with God’s promises, and avoiding doubt that can hinder answers. You’ll learn how to plant and nurture faith through Scripture, trust God’s process, and remain confident while you wait. Gary Keesee sermon: “How Do You Deal with Disappointed Faith?” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xh5gEyXnp_4&t=2376s

In this episode of Reading Between the Lines, I challenge long-held religious beliefs about money and wealth. I unpack the difference between the spiritual and natural realms, revealing how faith and provision operate in each. Through biblical insight, I reframe wealth as a tool—not evil—and invites listeners to embrace abundance as part of God’s design to bless others and advance kingdom work.

God never intended for His children to live in lack, sickness, or barely getting by. In this episode, Debra unpacks what it really means to live the abundant life Jesus promised—and why that life is available right now, not just in heaven. You’ll learn the three key components to thriving with Christ: your words, your beliefs, and your faith. Discover how the words you speak shape your reality, that belief drives your actions, and how faith activates God’s promises in your life. If you’re ready to stop surviving and start living in God’s fullness, this episode will show you how to align your life with His Word.

When doubt whispers and temptation knocks, what’s your response? In this episode, you'll find a powerful reminder straight from Scripture: God’s Word is your weapon.  As a royal child of God, you’ve been given power and authority to push back against fear, temptation, and lies. The key is learning to replace those thoughts with truth from the Bible and declaring it out loud.  In this episode, you’ll discover:  Why Scripture is a powerful weapon against doubt and temptation How speaking God’s Word strengthens faith and renews your mind  Simple ways to start using specific verses to confront personal struggles  If you’ve ever struggled with negative thoughts, spiritual discouragement, or wavering faith, this episode will remind you that you’re not powerless—you’re equipped.  Stand on the Word. Speak the truth. Live like the royalty God says you are.  Podcast referenced: When Doubt Creeps In   Every Day in His Presence, 365-day devotional, Charles Stanley (This is an affiliate link. I may earn a commission if you purchase through this link at no extra cost to you.) Unshakable Faith: Living Strong in the Kingdom of God 

Have you ever looked at the vision for your life and quietly wondered if it will ever really happen? If so, you’re not alone—and struggling with doubt doesn’t mean you lack faith. In this episode, we’re talking honestly about doubt: where it comes from, why resisting it actually makes it stronger, and what to do instead. You’ll learn how to acknowledge doubt without letting it run the show, how to turn your focus back to truth, and how God’s promises still stand—even when your faith feels shaky. We’ll walk through powerful scriptures like Numbers 23:19, James 1:5–8, Mark 9:23–24, and Philippians 4:8 to uncover what God says about belief, trust, and possibility. And yes—there is grace for the prayer, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.” If you’re facing a situation that has you questioning, wavering, or second-guessing God, this episode will help you refocus on what’s true and strengthen your faith right where you are.    https://DebraLButterfield.com

I never set out to become an editor, even though I’ve now been doing it for 15 years. Today, I sit back to enjoy a conversation with the writer who hired me to edit her book, and began my career as a freelance editor. Catherine Brakefield is the award-winning author of the Destiny Series and more.  Find Catherine at: https://www.CatherineUlrichBrakefield.com Sign up for her newsletter at: https://www.catherineulrichbrakefield.com/newsletter-sign-up-form.html Love's Final Sunrise: https://www.crossrivermedia.com/product/loves-final-sunrise/ Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/CatherineUlrichBrakefield/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-brakefield-4710b315/ For more information on From Dream to Debut coaching: https://www.themotivationaleditor.com/from-dream-to-debut-enrollment/ 

Trigger Warning: This podcast episode contains a discussion of sexual abuse and steps to healing. Today, I’m visiting with retired nurse Nancy Manassero whose written a book to help sexual abuse victims heal from their abuse. Nancy is an abuse survivor, and today’s show is packed with encouragement and practical steps for healing. Her advice can be applied to healing from any trauma. Nancy’s book Heartmending includes an appendix on grooming tactics used by sexual predators and one on signs of abuse in youth. Find Nancy at: https://www.nancymanassero.com To sign up for her newsletter, Hope for Healing: https://www.nancymanassero.com/signup  Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/nancymanasseroauthor https://www.instagram.com/nancyannmanassero/ Heartmending: https://tinyurl.com/heartmendingNM For more information on From Dream to Debut coaching, visit: https://www.themotivationaleditor.com/from-dream-to-debut-enrollment/   

In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of a tough week and the moment God met me right where I was—at the altar, overwhelmed and needing answers. As the holidays ramp up (and stress loves to commandeer the fun), I was reminded of an old friend: Psalm 37. A simple birthday story shared in church cracked something open, sending me back to the first book I ever wrote and the truth I’d somehow forgotten: God tells us exactly how to lay down our fear and step into peace. We’ll walk through the psalm’s life-giving steps: don’t fret, trust, delight, commit, and rest; and what it really means to believe you’ve received what you’ve prayed for, even before you see it. If your mind’s been noisy lately, this one’s a deep exhale.  Carried by Grace available on Amazon, https://amzn.to/4ryfCMi (affiliate link)

If you’re feeling stuck, there’s a good chance you’re avoiding a decision. Maybe you’re afraid of making the wrong move, or you’re waiting for absolute certainty before you act. But here’s the truth: clarity comes after you decide, not before it. In this episode, Debra unpacks why indecision keeps us trapped and how fear of mistakes holds us back. She explains the Law of Polarity—everything has an opposite and it is equal and opposite—and why learning to see both sides helps us grow. You’ll also discover four powerful questions (from Life Is Now coach David Neagle) to guide your next decision with confidence and faith. Key takeaways: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes—they’re how we learn. You don’t need to know the how to take the first step. Every problem holds a lesson that will serve you later. Decision is the bridge between where you are and where you want to be. Challenge: This week, make one decision you’ve been putting off and commit to spending regular time determining what you truly want in life. Blog post link: https://www.themotivationaleditor.com/4-simple-questions-for-decision-making/

For years I thought seeking the Kingdom of God meant denying myself, denying my dreams, my desires, my joy. But that’s not what Jesus meant at all. In this episode, I share how a deeper understanding of Matthew 6:33 brought greater light to my faith walk. You’ll learn what it really means to seek first the Kingdom of God and how to align your thoughts with the divine pattern of abundance and peace. Discover how to stop striving and instead rest in God’s promises. 📖 Listen now and discover what it truly means to live in the Kingdom. 👇 Resources mentioned: 📘 Unshakable Faith: Living Strong in the Kingdom of God—a 7-week Bible study to deepen your walk and strengthen your faith.  🙏 Subscribe for weekly encouragement on faith, mindset, and spiritual growth. https://debralbutterfield.com/ive-been-seeking-the-kingdom-all-wrong/ 

Are you skipping a professional edit on your manuscript because you’re afraid to hear criticism about your work? Don’t be afraid! Feedback on your work is essential to make it better and to become a better writer. Debra encourages writers to develop a thick skin, but also gives you some suggestions on how to get feedback on your manuscript outside of professional editing.  Get editing help today. Buy Self-editing & Publishing Tips for Indie Authors. 

Why is it so hard to ask—for help, for opportunities, for the sale? Jesus said, “Ask and it shall be given” (Matt. 7:7), yet many of us hesitate, held back by old programming that says asking is greedy or selfish. In this episode, I open up about my own struggles and how childhood messages still shape the way we live today. We’ll look at the truth of Scripture—James 4:2 and Romans 12:2—and how renewing our minds with daily repetition of God’s Word can free us from the fear of asking (or anything else). You’ll learn practical steps to replace false beliefs with biblical truth, and finally embrace the courage to ask—not just for the bare minimum, but for God’s best. Join me as I share lessons I’m still learning from my coach and from God Himself. Discover how you, too, can overcome the discomfort of asking and step into a fuller life of faith, confidence, and abundance. https://debralbutterfield.com https://themotivationaleditor.com  https://www.facebook.com/DebraLButterfieldAuthor 

Join me for an interview with Danny Barnhill. Danny utilizes decades of singing, teaching and speaking the gospel message into his newly discovered passion of writing. He crafts true inspirational stories, imaginative fictional stories and dramatic biblical narratives he hopes will touch hearts, inspire Christians, and exalt the Savior. Danny shares how he creates such heartfelt stories we all can relate to. Listen in and discover what you can apply to your own Bible study time and your writing.  You reach Danny here: Email:   [email protected] or [email protected]  Danny’s FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/danny.barnhill.5201/   Find me: Https://themotivationaleditor.com Https://debralbutterfield.com 

You might think the life you desire is impossible, unrealistic, or that the idea is just airy-fairy, but it isn’t. Today I share how one decision—one the world would have said was crazy—led to my career as an author. It’s never too late to reach for your dreams. From Dream to Debut live Q&A Aug. 21, 10:30 a.m. Central. Link:  https://zoom.us/j/97238546442?pwd=81AdpbjLqX00jUJXjOaqO77OPIhRr7.1  To learn more and sign up for From Dream to Debut 90-Day Coaching Program, visit https://www.themotivationaleditor.com/from-dream-to-debut-2/ 

Are you afraid to embrace the purpose God has for you? In this episode Debra encourages you with Scripture and that God is fully invested in seeing you succeed in that purpose. You were destined to succeed.  For more read “Destined to Succeed in Your Purpose,” https://debralbutterfield.com/destined-to-succeed-in-your-purpose/

We have the power to choose how we respond to the troubles in our lives. Are you making a conscious choice or reacting unconsciously? Listen in to learn more. 

We often question whether God will answer our prayer or do what He says He'll do.  In this episode I look at Ezekiel 12:25, "For I am the Lord! If I say it, it will happen. There will be no more delays" (NLT). God must do what He says He will, or He becomes a liar.  Listen in and be encouraged. For more encouraging, faith-filled messages visit https://DebraLButterfield.com  Build unshakable faith with my 7-week Bible study Unshakable Faith: Living Strong in the Kingdom of God.

You know God answers prayer for others, but are you wondering if He'll answer your prayer? In this episode, Debra takes a dive into what the abundant life is and that question of "will He do it for me?" For more on Debra, visit https://DebraLButterfield.com

What if the key to your purpose was already planted inside you? Debra and Jodie tackle the question so many of us ask: Why am I here? From childhood dreams to adult roadblocks, they discuss how to reconnect with the God-given desires you may have buried. You'll learn how to recognize the small nudges, listen to that still small voice, and take faithful steps toward a life that aligns with your calling. If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure, or disconnected from your purpose, this episode is a must-listen. 🛒 Order Carried by Grace: https://themotivationaleditor.com 📘 Read Debra’s blog & explore her books: debralbutterfield.com themotivationaleditor.com https://www.facebook.com/DebraLButterfieldAuthor 💬 Let’s continue the conversation: Join us on Facebook and share how this episode resonated with you. 📢 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to support the show!

Are you just getting by, stuck in a cycle of stress and self-doubt? In this episode, Debra Butterfield and Jodie O'Brien get real about what it means to thrive—not just survive. They explore how culture, false beliefs, and fear can hold us back from the life God intended. Hear powerful stories, practical mindset shifts, and encouragement for anyone feeling weighed down. Whether you're a parent, a professional, or just trying to make it through the day, this conversation will inspire you to believe that thriving is possible—and it starts from the inside out. 🛒 Order Carried by Grace: https://themotivationaleditor.com 📘 Read Debra’s blog & explore her books: debralbutterfield.com themotivationaleditor.com https://www.facebook.com/DebraLButterfieldAuthor 💬 Let’s continue the conversation: Join us on Facebook and share how this episode resonated with you. 📢 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to support the show!

In this engaging conversation, Debra Butterfield and Jodie O'Brien explore the profound impact of self-talk on personal identity and self-worth. They discuss the importance of recognizing negative self-talk, the techniques to counter it with positive affirmations, and the role of faith in shaping our self-perception. The conversation delves into how upbringing influences our beliefs about ourselves and emphasizes the need for forgiveness and acceptance in overcoming negative narratives. Through practical strategies and personal anecdotes, they encourage listeners to embrace their true identity and change the narrative in their minds. 🛒 Order Carried by Grace: https://themotivationaleditor.com 📘 Read Debra’s blog & explore her books: debralbutterfield.com themotivationaleditor.com https://www.facebook.com/DebraLButterfieldAuthor 💬 Let’s continue the conversation: Join us on Facebook and share how this episode resonated with you. 📢 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to support the show!

In this heartfelt conversation, hosts Debra Butterfield and Jodie O'Brien explore the universal struggle with doubt in one's faith journey. They share personal stories of facing life's challenges—from family crises to professional disappointments—and discuss practical tools for maintaining faith during difficult times. Listeners will learn the importance of making deliberate choices about their reactions, using scripture as a foundation, creating personalized playlists, and surrounding themselves with supportive relationships. Debra also highlights her book "Unshakeable Faith," which offers principles to help believers build a stronger spiritual foundation in less time than the decades it took her to learn these lessons. 🛒 Order Carried by Grace: https://themotivationaleditor.com 📘 Read Debra’s blog & explore her books: debralbutterfield.com themotivationaleditor.com https://www.facebook.com/DebraLButterfieldAuthor 💬 Let’s continue the conversation: Join us on Facebook and share how this episode resonated with you. 📢 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to support the show!

In this heartfelt conversation, Jodie O’Brien sits down with author Debra Butterfield to talk about her Her Inheritance fiction series—and the personal stories that shaped it. Debra opens up about writing from lived experience, what forgiveness really means, and how God used her characters to speak back into her own life. They explore the emotional core of her protagonist, Sally Clark, a woman navigating deep wounds from her adoptive father and trying to believe she's worthy of love. Debra shares how writing fiction became a journey of healing, and how a simple act—removing a ring—changed everything. From emotional breakthroughs to unexpected laughter, this episode is for anyone who believes stories can change hearts—starting with the author’s own. 🛒 Order Carried by Grace: https://themotivationaleditor.com 📘 Read Debra’s blog & explore her books: debralbutterfield.com themotivationaleditor.com https://www.facebook.com/DebraLButterfieldAuthor 💬 Let’s continue the conversation: Join us on Facebook and share how this episode resonated with you. 📢 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to support the show!

In this powerful first episode of Reading Between the Lines, host Jodie O’Brien sits down with author and editor Debra Butterfield to talk about the story behind her first book, Carried by Grace—a raw, personal account of the abuse her daughter endured and the faith that carried them both through the darkest season of their lives. Deb shares what it was like to face the unthinkable: betrayal from someone she trusted, the guilt she had to work through, and the strength it took to keep going for her children. Together, they reflect on the role of discipline, grace, and unshakable faith during a time when everything felt broken. This episode touches on: What pushed Deb to finally pursue writing in her 40s The moment her daughter spoke up—and everything changed The emotional rollercoaster of anger, guilt, and survival The power of Scripture Why Deb chose to write Carried by Grace How their relationship healed—and how her daughter now helps others as a licensed therapist The impact of shame, and why breaking the silence matters This isn’t an easy conversation—but it’s a needed one. If you’ve been through something hard, or love someone who has, Deb’s story will remind you that you’re not alone. Healing is possible. Hope is real. 🛒 Order Carried by Grace: https://themotivationaleditor.com 📘 Read Debra’s blog & explore her books: debralbutterfield.com themotivationaleditor.com https://www.facebook.com/DebraLButterfieldAuthor 💬 Let’s continue the conversation: Join us on Facebook and share how this episode resonated with you. 📢 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to support the show!