Women Behind the Words

Episode 69 - Finding Food Freedom: Kristy McCammon’s Journey to Life Unbinged

Date: March 28, 2025
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Kristy McCammon

 

Episode Highlights:
In this deeply honest and empowering episode of The Women Behind the Words, Kristy McCammon shares her journey of breaking free from emotional eating and food addiction through surrender, faith, and practical boundaries. Though she had a strong relationship with the Lord, Kristy battled shame and secret struggles with binge eating, often hiding her pain behind a smile. It wasn’t until she cried out to God for help that He gave her one life-changing word: boundaries.

After trying every diet with no lasting results, Kristy realized she needed something more sustainable—something rooted in truth. Through surrendering her food choices to the Lord and following a plan of three measured meals a day, Kristy lost over 100 pounds and has maintained that weight loss for more than six years. But more importantly, she found true freedom—freedom from shame, secrecy, and the constant mental battle with food.

Kristy explains how the world often tells us to satisfy every craving, but the Word of God teaches us to renew our minds and align our lives with His truth. For her, this meant creating beautiful guardrails—firm but life-giving boundaries with food, especially sugar and processed carbs. Though it required grieving the loss of certain habits and comforts, she gained something far more valuable: a deeper dependence on Jesus and a life she no longer wanted to numb.

Today, Kristy is a voice of hope to hundreds of thousands of women through her ministry, Life Unbinged. With over 700,000 social media followers and a thriving online community, she shares practical steps, daily encouragement, and biblical truth to help others break free from food struggles and emotional eating.

She leaves listeners with three powerful takeaways:

1. Let go of sugar and processed flour.

2. Journal what you eat.

3. Study what God says about your identity.

Food freedom, Kristy says, isn’t about restriction—it’s about liberation. It’s about choosing what nourishes you physically, emotionally, and spiritually while letting go of what leads you back into bondage.

 

About the Guest:
Kristy McCammon is a Christian wife, mother of five, speaker, coach, and founder of Life Unbinged. After losing 100 pounds in 2017 by surrendering her food addiction to the Lord and creating healthy, sustainable habits, Kristy has dedicated her life to helping others experience the same transformation. With a passionate and relatable voice, she shares tools and strategies to help women ditch dieting and walk in true freedom. Kristy lives in Texas with her husband and children and enjoys hiking, nature, and slow mornings with her Bible and coffee.

 

Book Spotlight: Life Unbinged
Life Unbinged is both a personal testimony and a practical guide for anyone longing to be free from food addiction. In this inspiring book, Kristy shares her story of quitting sugar, surrendering shame, and discovering joy through faith and intentionality. With honest reflections and actionable advice, Life Unbinged is a must-read for those ready to stop the binge-diet cycle and start living in victory—one meal, one prayer, and one day at a time.

 

Connect with Kristy McCammon:
Website: www.lifeunbinged.com
Email: lifeunbinged@gmail.com / support@lifeunbinged.com
Social Media:
Instagram: @lifeunbinged
Facebook: Life Unbinged
Quick Links: lifeunbinged.com/links

Episode 68 - My Journey of Surrender with Kristy Sheridan

Date: March 21, 2025

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Kristy Sheridan

 

Episode Highlights:
In this powerful episode of The Women Behind the Words, Deb Dufek welcomes Kristy Sheridan to share her incredible journey of survival, surrender, and spiritual awakening. Kristy’s life is marked by two near-death experiences—a deadly plane crash on American Airlines Flight 1420 and a 60-foot fall while hiking—both resulting in broken necks. It was through these harrowing moments that God broke through her self-reliance and invited her into a deeper, surrendered walk with Him.

Kristy opens up about moving from perfectionism and performance-based living to discovering her identity in Christ. After the second accident, she cried out to the Lord for help surrendering fully—and He met her in that prayer. Through the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit, Kristy’s heart was transformed, launching her into a new chapter of purpose and ministry.

Deb and Kristy also connect over their shared love for adoption and advocacy, particularly for those impacted by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Kristy shares a deeply personal story of her adopted brother’s struggles with addiction, repeated incarceration, and eventual redemption. Years of estrangement gave way to forgiveness, compassion, and healing—both for him and Kristy. Through Deb’s introduction, Kristy connected with Sandra Flach, a national FASD advocate, opening the door for future collaboration.

Kristy shares how her ministry, Sowing Jesus, began organically through leaving handwritten notes and Scripture in public spaces. It later evolved into her blog Three Minute Miracles, where she shares brief yet impactful stories about how God shows up in everyday life. Her testimony is a beautiful reminder of how God uses the most broken parts of our stories for His glory.

A central theme of this episode is the power of forgiveness and how it unlocks freedom, both for ourselves and those we love. Kristy encourages others to “transform painful places and persistent plateaus into purpose-filled spaces,” reminding listeners that our deepest wounds can become a platform for God’s grace.

 

About Kristy Sheridan:
Kristy Sheridan is an author, speaker, blogger, and the founder of the ministry Sowing Jesus. After earning her BA in English from San Diego State University, she spent 16 years in sales and management before God redirected her path through two life-altering accidents. Today, Kristy serves with the Family Assistance Education and Research Foundation, providing care to disaster survivors. She and her husband of 35 years live near Dallas, Texas, and have two grown children. Kristy is passionate about sharing the joy of Christ and encouraging others through her writing, speaking, and online ministry.

 

Book Spotlight: Third Save — Rescued from Death, Living in Joy
After surviving a plane crash and later falling off a cliff, Kristy Sheridan was confronted with her need for surrender. Her debut book, Third Save, chronicles her physical recovery and spiritual transformation. It’s a story of how God took a career-driven, self-sufficient woman and turned her life upside down to show her what real joy, identity, and purpose in Christ look like. Her testimony invites readers to consider how God may be using their trials to call them closer to Him.

 

Connect with Kristy Sheridan:
Website: www.kristysheridan.com
Email: kristy@kristysheridan.com
Facebook: facebook.com/kristysheridan
Instagram: @kristy_sheridan

 

Kristy’s story is a moving reminder that surrendering to Christ leads to deeper joy, purpose, and peace. Her journey shows how God can redeem even the most painful chapters of our lives and use them to write a story of restoration and hope.

Episode 67 - Grandparenting with Wisdom and Grace with Melissa Heiland

Date: March 14, 2025

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Melissa Heiland

 

Episode Highlights:

In this heartfelt episode of The Women Behind the Words, Debbie Dufek welcomes Melissa Heiland to discuss the profound role of grandparents and how they can impact their grandchildren’s lives with love, prayer, and wisdom. Melissa shares valuable insights on navigating the joys and challenges of grandparenting while maintaining integrity, respect, and a deep sense of faith.

Melissa emphasizes the importance of honoring parental authority and encouraging grandparents to never undermine their grandchildren's parents or contradict established rules—especially when it comes to sensitive areas like technology use. Respecting these boundaries not only builds trust but also sets a godly example of integrity and honor.

The conversation also explores the delicate balance of sharing faith with grandchildren. Melissa encourages grandparents to naturally weave conversations about Jesus into everyday moments unless explicitly asked not to. The goal is to offer encouragement and hope without pressure, allowing faith to be a gentle and uplifting presence.

Being present—both emotionally and physically—is another key aspect of grandparenting. Melissa encourages clearing schedules when grandchildren visit, being intentional in conversations, and speaking life and purpose into their hearts. She reminds grandparents that their presence is a gift, and their words can shape a legacy of faith and love.

Through these intentional practices, grandparents can create a safe, welcoming place for both their grandchildren and their parents. It’s about building a legacy rooted in faith, integrity, and unconditional love—making an eternal impact for generations to come.

 

About Melissa Heiland:
Melissa Heiland is a wife, mother of six, and grandmother of thirteen. With degrees from Wake Forest University and the University of Central Missouri, her specialties include education and curriculum instruction. Melissa served as a missionary with the International Mission Board and has led mission teams since 2000. She is the Founder and President of Beautiful Feet International, a mission organization that establishes pregnancy centers around the world. Beautiful Feet has over 151 pregnancy ministries in 36 countries.

Melissa is also an author, speaker, and missionary. Her written works include a training manual and curriculum for pregnancy centers, devotionals for new and pregnant mothers, and resources for mission teams. Melissa is the recipient of the 2014 EvanTell Matthew 4:19 award and the 2022 Heartbeat International Servant Leader award. Her passion is equipping others to share the Gospel and advocate for life.

 

Book Spotlights:

A Mother’s Journey: A Devotional for Pregnancy
This 40-week devotional offers comfort and spiritual guidance to expectant mothers. Each chapter includes scripture, a journal prompt, and details about the baby’s development. It encourages women to connect with their children, themselves, and God—offering hope and reminding them that they are not alone in their journey.

A Mother’s Comfort: A Devotional for Baby’s First Year
This 52-week devotional is designed to encourage new mothers as they bond with their babies. Each devotion includes scripture, reflections, and journaling prompts, helping mothers draw closer to God while navigating the joys and challenges of the first year. It serves as a comforting reminder that just as they comfort their child, God is present to comfort and guide them.

 

Connect with Melissa Heiland:
Website: Beautiful Feet International
Email: bfidiroperations@gmail.com
Facebook: Beautiful Feet International
Instagram: @beautifulfeetintl

 

Melissa’s life and ministry are a testament to the beauty of living intentionally for Christ, building legacies of love and faith that extend across generations and around the world.

Episode 66 - From Guilt to Grace~Hope for Moms of Addicted Children with Dawn Ward

Date: March 7, 2025

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Dawn Ward

 

Episode Highlights:
Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! In today’s powerful episode, we are honored to welcome Dawn Ward, a woman whose journey through pain, faith, and healing has inspired thousands. Dawn grew up in an alcoholic home, where her father was a functional alcoholic. As a child, she believed that keeping the peace meant striving for perfection, a mindset she carried into her marriage and parenting.

Life, however, took unexpected turns. One of Dawn's sons, after getting involved with the wrong crowd, became addicted to drugs. Wanting freedom, he voluntarily entered a rehabilitation program, found healing, and later helped others do the same. Her older son, following a significant surgery, developed an addiction to painkillers. These heartbreaking experiences led Dawn to a deeper relationship with Jesus, where she found peace, wisdom, and the grace to surrender control.

At God’s prompting, Dawn wrote her book, From Guilt to Grace: Hope and Healing for Christian Moms of Addicted Children, released in September 2024. She also founded an online support group for mothers of addicted children—a community that has grown to over 4,000 women seeking hope and encouragement. As the founder of Faith to Flourish, Dawn now speaks at conferences and retreats, reminding women that Jesus is faithful, even in the darkest moments.

Through it all, Dawn has come to embrace this truth: "Transform your painful places and persistent plateaus into purpose-filled spaces." She continues to walk alongside women facing similar struggles, helping them move from guilt to grace while discovering the healing power of God’s presence.

As Hebrews 4:12 (TPT) reminds us: "So now we come freely and boldly to where love is enthroned, to receive mercy’s kiss and discover the grace we urgently need to strengthen us in our time of weakness."

 

About Dawn Ward:
Dawn Ward is an author, speaker, Bible teacher, and certified biblical life coach. She is the founder of The Faith to Flourish, a ministry dedicated to supporting women with addicted loved ones and equipping all women of faith to live transformed lives through biblical teachings, mentoring, and resources. She is married to Steve and is the mother of three adult children. Her book, From Guilt to Grace: Hope and Healing for Christian Moms of Addicted Children, published in September 2024, is now available.

 

Book Spotlight: From Guilt to Grace: Hope and Healing for Christian Moms of Addicted Children

Are you a mother trying to cope with the painful reality of your adult child's addiction or self-destructive behaviors? Do you feel overwhelmed with fear, regret, and exhaustion from trying to save them?

You are not alone. Dawn Ward understands this journey firsthand. After years of striving, guilt, and heartbreak, she surrendered her will to God and found the peace and freedom of His redeeming grace.

From Guilt to Grace is a guide for mothers navigating the anguish of their child’s addiction. Through biblical truths and personal insights, you’ll uncover the lies keeping you trapped in guilt and shame while experiencing the transformative power of God’s grace to set you and your loved ones free.

 

Endorsement:
"From Guilt to Grace offers the kind of practical and spiritual guidance I wish I’d had on my painful journey." — Dena Yohe, Co-founder of Hope for Hurting Parents

 

Connect with Dawn Ward:
Website: www.thefaithtoflourish.com
Facebook: Faith to Flourish
Instagram: @thefaithtoflourishblog
YouTube: The Faith to Flourish with Dawn Ward
LinkedIn: Dawn Ward

 

Dawn’s journey is a beautiful testament to the power of surrender, trust, and God’s unwavering love. If you are walking through a difficult season, be encouraged—He is with you.

Episode 65 - Life Lessons Learned By Being a Party of One with Clarice James

Date: February 28, 2025

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Clarice James

 

Episode Highlights:

Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with my friend Clarice James, a talented fiction novelist with a passion for storytelling that has spanned over 18 years. Even as a child, Clarice loved weaving narratives, and that passion has only deepened with time. She writes what she knows, infusing her own life experiences into her characters—so much so that friends have occasionally recognized themselves in her books!

One of her most personal novels, Party of One, was inspired by her journey through grief and widowhood. After losing her first husband, Clarice faced the often-overlooked challenge of dining alone. One evening, while attempting to eat at a restaurant by herself, she was met with unexpected insensitivity from the waitstaff. That moment opened her eyes to the loneliness many people experience. Instead of retreating, she turned that moment into an opportunity, starting a supper club where singles and widows could gather for community and conversation. If she saw someone sitting alone, she invited them to join her, transforming an isolating experience into a beautiful sense of belonging.

Clarice has since authored five novels, is currently working on her sixth, and declares that writing is simply what she was made to do. In this episode, we discuss the importance of recognizing those who may feel unseen and taking simple steps to bring people together. Whether you're a writer, a widow, or someone seeking to foster deeper connections in your own life, Clarice’s journey is sure to inspire you.

 

About Clarice James:

Clarice G. James is an award-winning author known for her smart, fun, and relatable contemporary women’s fiction. Her stories are infused with humor, faith, romance, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged.

Her first published novel, Doubleheader, was one of the winners of the 2014 Jerry Jenkins Operation First Novel Contest. She has since published Party of One, Manhattan Grace, The Girl He Knew, and The Least of These, with her latest work-in-progress, Out of Hunger, currently underway.

In addition to fiction, Clarice is the author of Say Grace: A Scriptural Field Guide to Weight Loss and is currently working on a second non-fiction project, Say Grace: Grieving the Death of a Spouse.

When her first husband, Terry, passed away in 1998, Clarice turned to writing as a means of healing. In 2006, she remarried, finding love again with David—whom she describes as "a keeper, and all grown up when I got him." Sadly, she was widowed again in 2021, just shy of fifteen years of marriage.

When she’s not writing, Clarice enjoys reading, leading women’s Bible studies, and taking on home decorating projects. She resides in southern New Hampshire, surrounded by close family and friends.

 

Book Highlight: Party of One

Widow Annie McGee is ready to move forward, but as she steps into a new chapter, she encounters the unexpected challenge of loneliness. Determined to break through her grief, she finds Party of One—a communal table for single diners at a local restaurant. Initially, Annie has no intention of getting deeply involved with the lives of those who join her. She’s content to observe from a safe distance.

But as the weeks go by, she realizes that the only thing more surprising than the quirks of her eclectic tablemates is how much she starts to need their company. As friendships blossom and truths unfold, Annie learns that God has more in store for her than she ever imagined.

Party of One is a heartwarming story of second chances, unexpected friendships, and the beauty of community.

 

Other Books by Clarice James:

• The Least of These (Elk Lake Publishing, 2021)
• The Girl He Knew (Elk Lake Publishing, 2019)
• Manhattan Grace (Elk Lake Publishing, 2018)
• Doubleheader (Elk Lake Publishing, 2nd Ed. 2019)
• Party of One (Elk Lake Publishing, 2017)

 

Awards & Recognitions:

• Selah Award Semi-Finalist (2018) – Manhattan Grace
• Second Place Winner, Jerry Jenkins Operation First Novel Contest (2014) – Doubleheader
• Semi-Finalist & Finalist, Jerry Jenkins Operation First Novel Contest (2012 & 2013) – Party of One

 

Connect with Clarice James

📍 Website: www.claricegjames.com
📧 Email: clarice@claricegjames.com
📖 Say Grace: A Scriptural Field Guide to Weight Loss – Elk Lake Publishing, Inc. (2022)

Social Media:
📘 Facebook: Clarice G. James, Author
🐦 Twitter: @ClariceJames
📚 Bookbub: Clarice G. James
📖 Goodreads: Clarice G. James

 

Clarice’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, community, and the courage to embrace new seasons of life.

Episode 64 - Embracing New Seasons with Sanda Flach

Date: February 21, 2025

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Sandra Flach

 

Episode Highlights:

Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! In this inspiring episode, I sit down with my dear friend Sandra Flach as she shares the remarkable journey of stepping into a new season. For over a decade, Sandra has poured her heart into Justice for Orphans, an organization she co-founded to raise awareness in churches and provide support to foster and adoptive families. What began as a small ministry has flourished into a life-changing organization serving over 11,000 children and families.

Despite the incredible impact of Justice for Orphans, Sandra found herself in a position that, while vital, wasn’t her true calling. As the Executive Director, her responsibilities revolved around management, administration, and daily operations—tasks that pulled her away from her deepest passion: ministering directly to families, writing, and speaking.

Throughout this season, Sandra persistently sought the Lord, praying for the right person to step into leadership so she could fully embrace the calling God placed on her heart. Unbeknownst to her, Kathi, her trusted assistant director, had also been hearing from God—sensing a call to step into the very role Sandra had been praying to fill.

During a pivotal meeting, Sandra once again expressed her desire for a leader to take over Justice for Orphans. That’s when Kathi revealed what God had placed on her heart. In January of this year, the transition began, and Sandra stepped into a new chapter—fully dedicating herself to writing, speaking, and ministering to foster and adoptive parents through her online community.

Sandra’s story is a beautiful reminder of God’s perfect timing and faithfulness. She encourages anyone sensing a shift in their calling to trust the process, knowing that when God opens a door, He also equips us for what’s ahead. Proverbs 3:5-6 (TPT) reminds us: "Trust in the Lord completely and do not rely on your own opinions. With all your heart, rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make."

If you’re feeling called to step into a new season, this episode will encourage and inspire you to trust God, embrace change, and walk confidently in His plan.

 

About Sandra Flach:
Sandra Flach is a mother of eight, including five adopted children, two of whom have been diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). She is a passionate advocate for foster and adoptive families, equipping parents with resources and encouragement through her weekly Adoption & Foster Care Journey Podcast and her blog at SandraFlach.com. As a certified facilitator of the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model, Sandra leads FASD workshops and co-leads the Hope for the FASD Journey online support community. She is also the co-founder of Justice for Orphans and the author of Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father. Sandra and her husband, Wayne, have been married for 38 years. They reside in upstate New York, where they enjoy spending time in the Adirondack Mountains.

 

Book Highlight: Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father
A story of incredible perseverance, unwavering faith, and the power of adoption—both earthly and spiritual. This deeply personal book is part adoption memoir, part spiritual reflection on what it means to be a child of God. Whether you've been touched by adoption or want to better understand the orphan crisis, Orphans No More will inspire you to embrace your full identity in Christ and walk in the freedom of being fully loved by the Father.

 

Connect with Sandra Flach:
Email: sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org
Website: www.justicefororphansny.org
Phone: +1 (518) 779-2279
Mailing Address: PO Box 418, Ravena, NY 12143
Support the Mission: Donate to Justice for Orphans

 

Sandra’s journey is a powerful testimony of trusting God’s timing, releasing control, and stepping into His greater purpose. Tune in now for an episode filled with wisdom, encouragement, and the reminder that when God calls, He equips.

Episode 63 - Will You Let Me Hire You? with Kathy Hendley

Date: February 14, 2025

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Kathy Hendley

 

Story Highlight:
In this deeply inspiring episode of The Women Behind the Words, Debbie sits down with Kathy Hendley to discuss a life-changing moment that reshaped Kathy’s approach to work and faith. Kathy shares how attending Debbie’s Business Meeting with God workshop at the AWSA Conference became a defining point in her journey.

At the time, Kathy was in the midst of an exhausting job search, sending out résumé after résumé without clear direction. Feeling frustrated and uncertain, she attended the conference in Kentucky, where she met Debbie for the first time. During the workshop, Kathy had an unexpected encounter with God—one that brought her to tears. In the stillness of the session, she heard a gentle whisper: “Would you work for Me?” The moment was so profound that she shared her experience with the group, realizing that God was inviting her into something much bigger than she had imagined.

That question changed everything. From that day forward, Kathy surrendered her career into God’s hands, inviting Him to be the CEO of her work and future. What followed was a season of trust, redirection, and an entirely new way of doing business—with God at the helm. Her testimony serves as a reminder that no matter what season of life we are in, whether we are business owners, homeschooling mothers, or retirees seeking purpose, God is actively calling us to trust Him with our work.

This episode is filled with encouragement, practical wisdom, and the beautiful reminder that when we invite Jesus into our work, surrender our plans, and trust His lead, transformation happens.

 

About Our Guest (Bio):
Dr. Kathy Hendley is a teacher, author, and speaker dedicated to encouraging others to overcome obstacles, pursue their goals, and fully step into their calling. She is an active member of Word Weavers International and AWSA. Her debut novel, Murder in the Masterpiece: A Teacher’s Deadly Lesson, is set to be published in mid-January.

Beyond her writing, Kathy hosts the monthly Write on Purpose virtual writing retreat, designed to equip and inspire Christian writers. She is also organizing a writing contest, with winning entries to be published in an upcoming anthology. When she’s not writing or teaching, Kathy serves on her church’s worship and prayer teams. A self-proclaimed “Bible study junkie,” she often travels the tri-state area in search of impactful women’s Bible studies.

 

Book Highlight:
Murder in the Masterpiece: A Teacher’s Deadly Lesson

Faye Unger is a quiet, reserved math teacher at Arlington Community School, but outside the classroom, she finds solace in painting—a private escape that helps her process life’s challenges. However, when her latest artwork eerily mirrors the details of a decades-old unsolved murder, Faye’s passion for art takes a chilling turn.

At the same time, veteran teacher Don Ambrose is still haunted by the unsolved murder of his wife. His search for answers has consumed him for years—until he stumbles upon Faye’s paintings. The details are too accurate to be a coincidence. As they unravel the mystery together, shocking connections emerge between Faye’s subconscious visions and Don’s pursuit of justice.

But some want the past to stay buried, and they will stop at nothing to ensure the truth never comes to light. Every clue draws Faye and Don deeper into a web of secrets, danger, and deception. Will they find the answers they seek before it’s too late?

For fans of The Silent Patient and Ashton Corners Book Club Mysteries, Murder in the Masterpiece delivers an unforgettable blend of suspense, intrigue, and faith-driven storytelling.

 

Also by Kathy Hendley:
Gratitude Journal: Daily Practice of Giving Thanks

Imagine waking up each day feeling more fulfilled, positive, and connected to the blessings around you. Gratitude Journal is a beautifully designed guide to help you cultivate a daily habit of thankfulness.

With uplifting quotes, inspiring affirmations, and space to reflect, this journal helps you shift your focus from what’s missing to what’s already present in your life. As you fill its pages, you’ll develop resilience, mindfulness, and a deeper appreciation for everyday moments.

Start your gratitude journey today and unlock a more joyful, content, and peaceful version of yourself—one thankful thought at a time.

 

Connect with Kathy:
Email: info@kathyhendley.com
Website: www.kathyhendley.com
Facebook: www.patreon.com/KathyHendley
Instagram: @kathhendley9

Episode 62 - How to Hear God’s Voice in Your Ministry: The Power of a Weekly Business Meeting with God

Date: February 6, 2025

Podcast Show Notes: Solo Episode with Debbie Dufek

 

Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! In today’s episode, Debbie explores the transformative practice of holding a weekly ministry or business meeting with God. By intentionally setting aside time to hear His voice, journaling your thoughts, and seeking His wisdom, you’ll gain clarity and direction for your work and calling. This episode is packed with practical steps to help you cultivate a heart that listens and follows God’s leading in every decision.

 

Episode Highlights:

Position Yourself for God’s Guidance

• Expectation – Come with the belief that God will speak.
• Listening Heart – Be open and ready to receive His voice.
• Privilege and Need – Recognize the importance of aligning with His plans.
• Desire for His Agenda – Surrender your plans in exchange for His perfect will.
• Battle-Ready Mindset – Understand that spiritual opposition may arise as you step in His direction.

 

Preparing for Your Meeting with God

• Commitment – Schedule this time as a non-negotiable weekly routine.
• Heart Cleansing – Begin with prayer and journaling to prepare your spirit.
• Gratitude – Reflect on and thank God for His faithfulness.
• Heart Pour (Brain Dump) – Write down everything on your mind, including:
  • Writing, speaking, ministry, and business-related thoughts
  • Short-term and long-term goals (3 months, 6 months, 12 months, 5 years)
  • Current commitments and deadlines
  • Financial needs and timelines
  • Are any other God-given dreams stirring in your heart

 

Two-Way Journaling: Listening for His Voice

• Prayer – Ask for confirming Scriptures and clear direction.
• Journaling – Record your prayers, thoughts, and any insights received.
• Listening – Spend time in quiet reflection, ensuring what you hear aligns with God’s Word.

 

Action Steps

• Daily Review – Revisit your notes and reflect on God’s revelations.
• Progress Tracking – Highlight completed tasks and celebrate each step forward.
• Gratitude – End your meeting with thanksgiving for His direction and provision.

 

Banner Scripture
"Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions. With all your heart, rely on Him to guide you, and He will lead you in every decision you make." — Proverbs 3:5 (TPT)

 

About Debbie Dufek:
Debbie Dufek is a passionate author, speaker, and ministry leader with a heart for inspiring others to live with intention for Jesus. She is the founder and host of The Women Behind the Words podcast, where she encourages Christian writers, speakers, and ministry leaders to step boldly into their callings.

Debbie has been leading women’s ministry events and conferences for over 35 years, including The Mom’s Luncheon, an annual gathering that continues to bless over 150 women each year. She also mentors aspiring writers and speakers, helping them embrace their God-given voice and purpose.

Currently, Debbie is writing her next book, set to be released in September 2025, on the practice of holding a Weekly Business Meeting with God, offering a step-by-step guide to hearing His voice amid daily responsibilities.

When she’s not writing or speaking, Debbie enjoys quiet mornings with coffee, long walks, and soaking in the beauty of God’s creation. She believes that every story matters and that sharing our faith journeys can change the course of history—one heart at a time.

 

Book Spotlight: Walking in Divine Alignment—Embracing God’s Plan in Everyday Life
Debbie’s upcoming book, Walking in Divine Alignment, is a heartfelt and practical guide for those longing to experience clarity, purpose, and peace in their daily walk with Christ. Through personal stories, biblical wisdom, and practical tools, Debbie shares how to:

• Align your daily life with God’s greater plan
• Develop spiritual habits that cultivate a deeper relationship with Him
• Recognize divine opportunities and step into them with confidence
• Trust God’s timing, even when life feels uncertain

This book will be a companion for anyone seeking to live intentionally, embracing the life God has designed uniquely for them. Coming Fall 2025!

 

Closing Thought:
As you walk through this week, remember that God is actively working in your life. He is guiding your steps, leading your decisions, and surrounding you with His love. Embrace the with-God life, trusting that His plans for you are greater than anything you could imagine.

 

Scripture of Encouragement:
"And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to Himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to Him." — 2 Corinthians 5:18 (NLT)

 

Connect with Debbie:

• Subscribe to The Women Behind the Words podcast on Apple, Spotify, Podbean, and other platforms.
• Follow Debbie on Facebook and Instagram for encouragement on writing, ministry, and faith-driven business.
• Visit www.debbiedufek.com for more resources.
• Email Debbie at deb@debbiedufek.com—she loves hearing how God is working in your life!

 

Get Exclusive Access to the AWSA Conference Handout!

Want to dive deeper into the wisdom and encouragement shared at the AWSA Conference? By subscribing to Debbie’s newsletter, you’ll gain access to the AWSA Conference Handout—a valuable resource packed with insights, inspiration, and practical tools to help you step boldly into your calling.

This handout is only available to newsletter subscribers, so don’t miss out! Sign up today and receive content that will encourage and equip you in your journey of faith, writing, and ministry.

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