That's Just What I Needed Podcast

That's Just What I Needed
  • 4.9 (97)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

If you’ve ever had a conversation where you’ve walked away thinking, “Wow! That was just what I needed”, you know you felt encouraged, learned a thing or two, laughed, and maybe even felt a bit challenged. Author, national speaker, and pastor’s wife, Donna Jones provides life-giving “that’s just what I needed” conversations to help you know, love, and follow God in the midst of real-life--the one with daily demands and crazy cultural chaos. Sometimes she’ll welcome a guest we can learn from; sometimes the conversation will be just her and you. But, Donna’s hope is that each conversation will be exactly what you need.

  1. 1d ago

    The Wisdom of Sleep: What Rest Teaches Us About God with Brett McCracken

    What if sleep isn't just something your body needs but a gift from God that can actually teach you something about Him?   In this fascinating conversation with Brett McCracken, author of The Wisdom of Sleep, we explore why God designed us to spend nearly a third of our lives asleep, how sleep gives us a beautiful picture of grace and the gospel, and why our resistance to rest may reveal more than we realize. We also talk about dreams, Sabbath, hustle culture, and what to do when good sleep feels impossible.   I walked away seeing something I do every single night in a completely new way, and I think you will, too.   Remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Key Takeaways: 0:02:27 - Sleep as a Gift and Theology, Not Just a Health Hack 0:07:59 - Sleep, Hustle Culture, and Spiritual Warfare 0:11:02 - Nightly Sleep as a Living Picture of the Gospel 0:15:31 - Dreams as God’s Classroom in the Night 0:23:33 - Sabbath, Limits, and Resisting the Idol of Productivity What We Talk About Why Brett wrote The Wisdom of Sleep What a "theology of sleep" actually means Why Scripture describes sleep as a gift from God The physical, mental, and emotional benefits of sleep How sleep gives us a miniature picture of the gospel Why waking up can be viewed as a picture of resurrection What science tells us about why we dream How God uses dreams throughout Scripture How to discern whether a dream might have spiritual significance Why Scripture must always be our standard for discernment The connection between sleep and Sabbath How hustle culture can keep us from receiving God's gift of rest Why accepting our limitations is an act of trust Finding hope when good sleep feels elusive Sleep as a Nightly Picture of the Gospel Brett offers a beautiful way to rethink something we normally take for granted: We lie down. Sleep requires us to stop striving and surrender control. We receive. While we sleep, restoration happens without our effort. We don't achieve the benefits of sleep—we receive them. We rise. Each morning, we wake to new life, giving us a small picture of resurrection. We remember. Sleep reminds us that we're limited, God isn't, and His grace sustains us even when we're doing absolutely nothing. That changes the way I think about going to bed! Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.  It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.  If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their faith. Connect with Brett: Brett’s Website: https://www.brettmccracken.com/ Brett’s Book: The Wisdom of Sleep: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0310175712 Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones     Website: www.donnajones.org     Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

  2. Aug 5

    How to Trust God with Your Life, Your Future, and Your Questions with Laurie Short

    If you've ever wondered where God is in the middle of unanswered prayers or unexpected detours, this conversation is for you. As I sit down with author Laurie Short, we talk about how looking back at God's faithfulness gives us the confidence to trust Him with what's ahead. Laurie shares powerful stories from her own life, practical ways to recognize God's hand in your story, and why even painful seasons aren't wasted. My prayer is that you'll walk away with fresh hope, a stronger faith, and a renewed confidence that God is still writing a beautiful story in your life (because, my friend, He is). Remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Key Takeaways: 0:02:12 -  Series on Discerning God’s Will and Introducing Laurie Short 0:03:16 – “Tracking God in Your Life” and the Power of Remembering 0:07:54 – Open/Closed Doors, Timing, and God in the “Rearview Mirror” 0:14:09 – Risk, “Mirrors and Cliffs,” and God’s Path to Freedom 0:19:46 – Pain, Flipped Scripts, and Finding Purpose in Your Story What We Talk About Why God is often easier to recognize in hindsight Learning to trust God's timing instead of our own Open doors, closed doors, and divine redirection How suffering shapes our faith and our purpose The importance of vulnerability and self-awareness Why life's unexpected detours often become God's greatest blessings Sharing your faith story with your children and others Laurie's interactive approach to discovering God's fingerprints throughout your life Eight Ways to Track God in Your Life Laurie Short encourages readers to recognize God's work through everyday experiences, including: Hearing God's voice Open and closed doors God's timing "Coincidences" and divine appointments Mirrors (looking honestly at ourselves) Cliffs (taking courageous steps of faith) Pain and suffering Life's unexpected detours ("when the script gets flipped") She also encourages creating a personal "stone pile"—a list of moments that remind you of God's faithfulness whenever your faith feels weak. Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.  It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.  If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their faith. Connect with Laurie: Laurie’s Website: https://laurieshort.com/ Laurie’s Book: Tracking God in Your Life: https://laurieshort.com/product/tracking-god-in-your-life/   Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones     Website: www.donnajones.org     Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

  3. Jul 29

    How to Know God's Will: Biblical Steps to Make Confident Decisions with Katrin Hagman

    If you've ever wrestled with a big decision and wondered, God, what do You want me to do? This conversation is for you. I sit down with podcaster  Katrin Hegman to unpack a beautiful story from Genesis that offers practical, biblical wisdom we can use for discerning God's will. We talk about making decisions rooted in faith instead of fear, recognizing God's direction, and learning to trust His timing. If you're facing a crossroads or simply want to grow in hearing God's voice more clearly, this episode will give you both confidence and peace. Remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Key Takeaways: 0:03:00 - Making Decisions WITH God, Not Just FOR God 0:08:46 - Don’t Take Shortcuts on the 500-Mile Journey 0:11:42 - Fear-Based Choices Always Backfire 0:15:30 - The $50 Price Tag of Integrity 0:21:23 - From Plan B to God’s Restored Plan A What We Talk About Why discerning God's will can feel difficult The story of Isaac and Rebekah in Genesis 24 Why shortcuts often lead us away from God's best Making decisions from faith instead of fear Practical questions to evaluate whether you're walking in God's will The importance of integrity and biblical wisdom Why circumstances alone shouldn't determine your decisions Asking God for confirmation in meaningful ways Learning to wait, observe, and trust God's timing Thanking God for His guidance and building a testimony of His faithfulness A Biblical Process for Discerning God's Will Don't Take Shortcuts Choose integrity over convenience. Trust God's timing instead of rushing the process. Don't Make Decisions Out of Fear Examine your motives. Ask whether fear or faith is leading your choice. Make Sure You're Already Walking in God's Will Live with integrity. Practice biblical wisdom. Obey the last thing God asked you to do. Seek God's Direction, Not Just Good Circumstances Pray specifically. Ask God for meaningful confirmation rather than simply looking for open doors. Wait and Confirm Observe. Ask questions. Don't rush to conclusions. Thank God for His Faithfulness Celebrate His guidance. Let His faithfulness become part of your testimony. Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.  It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.  If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their faith. Connect with Katrin: Love God First Podcast: https://katrinlhagman5.podbean.com/ Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones     Website: www.donnajones.org     Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

  4. Jul 22

    What Is God Really Doing in Your Life? Seeing Your Circumstances Through His Bigger Plan

    “God, what should I do?” That's the question most of us ask–maybe you’re asking it right now.. Put another way, “what is your will, God?” These aren’t bad questions–they’re good. But they can also be incomplete. Kind of like missing the forest because of the trees. Sometimes the better question is not, “God what should I do?” but “God what are you doing?” In  this episode, I want to encourage you to see your circumstances (yes, the ones you are in right now) from a different perspective. Instead of only asking God what decision you should make, what if you also asked what He's doing in you? We'll talk about how God uses trials, relationships, and His Word to shape us into the image of Christ. My prayer is that you'll walk away with renewed hope, greater confidence in God's plan, and the peace that comes from knowing He's faithfully finishing the work He started in you. And, if you’re thinking, That’s great, but I still need to know God’s will. Today’s episode is the beginning point to that dilemma and next week my guest will answer the question, “How can I discern God’s will?” You won’t want to miss it! And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna   Key Takeaways: 0:00:12 - Rethinking God’s Will: Transformation Over Direction 0:02:40 - Life as a Dress Fitting: Conformed to Christ’s Image 0:09:09 - Trials as Refining Tools: Let Mind Lead, Not Emotions 0:13:29 - People and Scripture as Catalysts for Maturity 0:17:49 - From All Things to Radiant Bride: God Finishes What He Starts What We Talk About Why we often ask the wrong question about God's will God's greater purpose of transforming us into Christ's image Philippians 1:6 and God's promise to finish what He starts How wedding dress alterations illustrate spiritual growth Why God uses trials to mature our faith Learning to lead with truth instead of emotions The importance of spiritually healthy relationships Reading Scripture to know both God's character and His heart Seeing difficult circumstances through God's eternal perspective Instead of Asking... Rather than only asking: "God, what should I do?" Also ask: "God, what are You doing in me?" God shapes us through three primary tools: Trials – Building endurance and revealing areas for growth. People – Using authentic relationships to encourage and sharpen us. His Word – Revealing who God is and teaching us how to live. When reading Scripture, ask two simple questions: Who are You, Lord? In light of who You are, how do You want me to live? Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.  It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.  If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their faith. Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones     Website: www.donnajones.org     Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

  5. Jul 15

    How to Raise Kids Who Change the World for Christ | Brian Mueller on Faith, Purpose & Christian Education

    I loved this conversation because it reminded me that God doesn't just call pastors and missionaries; He calls teachers, nurses, engineers, business leaders, parents, and every one of us to make an impact for His kingdom. Brian Mueller shares his incredible journey from basketball coach to president of Grand Canyon University, along with his heart for raising up a generation that lives out their faith wherever God places them. If you've ever wondered whether your work, your family, or your gifts really matter to God, I think this episode will encourage you to see your everyday life as a sacred calling.   And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Key Takeaways: 00:02:40 - From Coach to President: Brian’s Unlikely Road to GCU 0:06:48 - Sacred Vocation: Turning Every Career into Kingdom Work 0:13:58 - Risking Comfort: Leaving Success at Phoenix to Rescue GCU 0:18:30 - Five-Point Plan: Jobs, Safety, Homes, Scholarships, Service 0:26:15 - It Starts at Home: Parents Raising Culture-Shaping Kids What We Talk About Brian Mueller's unexpected journey to leading Grand Canyon University Why every vocation can be a sacred calling Integrating faith into work instead of separating the two Raising children to influence culture for Christ The importance of Christian education and discipleship Living out the Gospel through service and community transformation Trusting God's plans over our own Helping young adults discover purpose and calling Living Your Faith Through Your Calling Brian shares a simple but powerful perspective on how Christians can influence the world: Recognize your vocation as a sacred calling. Every profession can honor God. Integrate your faith into your everyday work. Don't compartmentalize your spiritual life. Serve people with excellence and integrity. Your character often speaks louder than your words. Build relationships that reflect Christ. The Gospel is demonstrated through how we love others. Trust God to use your unique gifts. Your passions and experiences are part of His greater purpose. Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.  It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.  If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their faith. Connect with Brian: Brian’s Website: https://www.gcu.edu/   Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones     Website: www.donnajones.org     Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

  6. Jul 8

    How to Live in the Freedom Christ Already Won for You

    I think so many of us know Jesus has forgiven us, but we still live like we're carrying chains. In this episode, I want to remind you that Christ didn't simply make your life better. He set you free. Together, we'll look at what Scripture says about the freedom Jesus purchased for us and why so many of us still struggle with shame, fear, comparison, regret, and people-pleasing. My prayer is that you'll recognize the areas where you've been living like a prisoner and step into the freedom that's already yours. Because the prison door is open and Jesus is inviting you to walk out.   And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna   Key Takeaways: 00:01–0:02:30 - Freedom: Walking Out of the Unlocked Prison 02:30–0:04:48 - From Self-Improvement to Christ-Set Freedom 04:48–0:06:40 - When Grace Becomes Familiar, Freedom Feels Distant 06:40–0:09:44 - Invisible Prisons: Regret, Fear, Opinions, Comparison 09:44–0:12:15 - Free People Free People   What We Talk About What Galatians 5:1 teaches about spiritual freedom The true cost Jesus paid on the cross Why Christians still struggle with shame, fear, and regret How comparison and people-pleasing rob us of joy The difference between striving for God's approval and living from it Why gratitude fuels genuine worship How living in freedom transforms the way we treat others Practical ways to identify the areas where you still feel spiritually stuck Recognizing the "Unlocked Prison" Ask yourself: Am I living with shame instead of grace? Am I choosing fear instead of trust? Am I holding onto bitterness instead of forgiveness? Am I comparing my life instead of living with contentment? Jesus has already unlocked the prison door. The invitation is to step out and live in the freedom He has already given you. Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.  It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.  If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their faith. Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones     Website: www.donnajones.org     Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

  7. Jul 1

    How to Spot Manipulation (in Others and Even Yourself): A Biblical Guide to Healthy Relationships

    Have you ever walked away from a conversation feeling manipulated or wondered if you've unknowingly done the same? I know I have. In this episode, we're taking an honest look at what manipulation really is, why even well-meaning people fall into it, and how fear, pride, impatience, and unmet needs can quietly shape the way we relate to others. I'll share practical ways to recognize unhealthy patterns, communicate with honesty instead of control, and trust God with the outcomes we can't manage ourselves. My prayer is that you'll leave feeling more free, more self-aware, and better equipped to build healthier relationships.   And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Key Takeaways: 0:00:02 - Podcast purpose & listener invitation 0:03:49 - Defining everyday manipulation 0:09:02 - What really drives manipulative behavior 0:14:25 - Common relational patterns of manipulation 0:19:36 - Choosing honest communication and trust over control What We Talk About What manipulation really is (and what it isn't) Why manipulation is often subtle instead of obvious Common motivations behind manipulative behavior The difference between influence and control Signs you're being manipulated—or manipulating someone else Passive-aggressive communication and guilt tactics Spiritual manipulation and why it's so dangerous Honest communication that builds healthy relationships Trusting God instead of trying to control outcomes The Heart Check for Manipulation When you feel tempted to control someone, pause and ask yourself: What outcome am I trying to control? Identify what you're hoping the other person will do, think, or feel. What's driving me right now? Ask whether your motivation is: Fear Pride Impatience Self-protection A legitimate unmet need Selfish ambition When you recognize what's happening in your heart, you can choose trust over control and healthy communication over manipulation. Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.  It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.  If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their faith. Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones     Website: www.donnajones.org     Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

  8. Jun 24

    How to Find God’s Comfort When Life Falls Apart with Lisa Appelo

    If you've ever experienced a loss that changed everything, this conversation is for you. Grief comes in many forms–loss of a loved one, loss of a job, loss of a relationship, or simply loss of life as we want it to be–these things affect us. Deeply.   In times like this we need help for our wounded hearts.  Author, Lisa Appelo, knows this all too well. Lisa shares her powerful story of suddenly losing her husband and becoming a single mom to seven children overnight. Together, we talk about grief, healing, and the comfort only God can provide when life feels unbearable. Lisa offers practical wisdom for navigating loss, processing difficult emotions, and finding hope again when the future feels uncertain. Whether you're grieving yourself or walking alongside someone who is, I believe this conversation will encourage your heart and remind you that God is near to the brokenhearted.   And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Key Takeaways: 0:00:02 - Hope-Filled Podcast & Book Giveaway Setup 0:03:33 - From Sudden Loss to Writing on Grief 0:07:30 - What Grief Really Does to Your Whole Self 0:13:18 - Daily Lament: Journaling, Scripture, and Sustaining Grace 0:26:12 - Parenting Kids Through Grief and When to Seek Counseling What We Talk About Lisa's story of sudden loss and becoming a widow overnight How grief affects the body, mind, emotions, and faith Common misconceptions about grieving as a Christian The role of lament and honest prayer in healing Practical ways God provides comfort during loss The benefits of journaling through grief Why the traditional "stages of grief" can be misleading Helping children navigate loss and grief Trusting God when answers don't come Finding hope, healing, and joy again after loss Lisa's Daily Practice for Walking Through Grief Pour Out Your Heart Bring your fears, questions, sadness, and frustrations honestly to God. Pray, cry, journal, and lament. Open God's Word Anchor yourself in Scripture, even when you don't feel strong enough. Focus on God's character and promises. Offload What You Can't Carry Release burdens that are too heavy for you. Allow God to carry what you cannot. Trust God's Presence Even without answers, trust that God is with you, for you, and sustaining you. Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book -  Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.    It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.    If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.   It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their faith. Connect with Lisa: Lisa’s Website: https://lisaappelo.com/   Lisa’s Book: God of Comfort: A Devotional Journal for the Grieving Heart: https://www.amazon.com/God-Comfort-Devotional-Journal-Grieving/dp/0764246038/ref=sr_1_1 Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones       Website: www.donnajones.org       Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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If you’ve ever had a conversation where you’ve walked away thinking, “Wow! That was just what I needed”, you know you felt encouraged, learned a thing or two, laughed, and maybe even felt a bit challenged. Author, national speaker, and pastor’s wife, Donna Jones provides life-giving “that’s just what I needed” conversations to help you know, love, and follow God in the midst of real-life--the one with daily demands and crazy cultural chaos. Sometimes she’ll welcome a guest we can learn from; sometimes the conversation will be just her and you. But, Donna’s hope is that each conversation will be exactly what you need.

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