This Devoted Life

James and Shanda
  • 4.9 (31)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
This Devoted Life

What started as a Saturday morning coffee date turned into a podcast where we discuss our faith, family, finances and so much more! In a world that is encouraging you to “live your truth” and to “follow your heart,” we want to encourage you to live Devoted to THE Truth. The Bible has a lot to say about how to live a victorious Christian life, and we want to share practical insight in how to apply those truths to your life as we endeavor to apply them to our own lives as well.We are passionate about building and growing the nuclear family, as well as sharing our expertise and experience with finances, homeschooling, and over 70 years of combined biblical knowledge. Join us as we live… This Devoted Life! James and Shanda

  1. JUN 24

    39. Don't Let Your Faith Take a Vacation this Summer/Practical Tips & Resources for Family Discipleship

    Faith doesn't have to take a summer vacation. When our four-year-old surprised us by announcing the summer solstice meant "the days are getting shorter," it sparked an important realization: summer presents both challenges and opportunities for keeping our children's faith formation active. Summer spirituality doesn't require complicated systems or rigid schedules. Simple family worship nights happen organically in our home when my husband grabs his guitar and the kids collect makeshift instruments – from upside-down pans to plastic cups. These spontaneous moments often create the most meaningful spiritual memories. Morning devotionals provide another anchor point during unstructured summer days. Resources like "The Treasure: Ancient Story Ever New," "I Am: 40 Reasons to Trust God," or children's Picture Bibles offer accessible entry points to Scripture. The goal isn't completing every page but establishing the habit of turning to God's Word together daily. Scripture memorization becomes more natural during summer's relaxed pace. Whether choosing Psalm 19:14, the Fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22-23, or longer passages like Romans 12:1-2, consistency is key. As one beloved poem reminds us: "Little drops of water, little grains of sand, make the mighty ocean and the pleasant land." Family read-alouds – from church history to The Green Ember series or even The Lord of the Rings – create opportunities for meaningful discussions that naturally reinforce biblical values without forced spiritualization. Meanwhile, intentional acts of kindness teach children that faith extends beyond Sunday mornings into practical expressions of Christ's love. What matters most isn't perfection but intentionality. If you miss a day or only complete half your planned devotional, simply begin again tomorrow. These small, consistent moments – "humble though they be" – accumulate into a lifetime of faith that will sustain your children long after summer ends. How are you keeping Christ at the center of your family's summer? Share your ideas with us at podcast@thisdevotedlife.com or message us on Instagram @devoted_motherhood. And don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who could use some summer faith encouragement! Links : (may contain affiliate links) Fruit of the Spirit Resource The Treasure: Ancient Story Ever New of Jesus and His Church by Marty Machowski WonderFull: Ancient Psalms Ever New by Marty Machowski I Am: 40 Bible Stories, Devotions, and Prayers About the Names of God by Diane Stortz Complete Illustrated Children’s Bible Morning and Evening by Charles Spurgeon The Daily Grace Devotionals (use code SHANDA10 at checkout) Let's connect! Website: This Devoted Life Instagram: Devoted Motherhood & This Devoted Life Podcast Email: podcast@thisdevotedlife.com

    28 min

  2. JUN 10

    38. Strong Fathers Create Stronger Families: A Father's Day Reflection

    The statistics are staggering: one in four American children grow up without a father figure, leading to profound consequences in education, poverty rates, and even incarceration. But behind these numbers lies a deeper truth about God's design for fatherhood that our culture often overlooks or undermines. In this Father's Day special, we unpack the biblical blueprint for fatherhood that stands in stark contrast to popular media portrayals of dads as incompetent bumblers. Drawing from scripture and practical experience, we explore how fathers are called to be spiritual leaders, loving providers, and models of Christ's love within their families. The impact of a present, engaged father reverberates through generations – not just in avoiding negative outcomes, but in actively nurturing children who thrive. What does it mean to discipline with grace? How can fathers model humility and repentance? We discuss practical ways fathers can connect spiritually with their children through consistent, authentic moments – whether singing praise songs together, praying as a family, or simply showing up day after day. These seemingly small actions create the foundation upon which children build their understanding of both earthly and heavenly fatherhood. For mothers listening, we offer encouragement on supporting and uplifting the fathers in your children's lives. And for those without fathers or whose fathers were absent, we acknowledge your experience while pointing to how our Heavenly Father can fill those gaps with His perfect love. Whether you're a new dad, a seasoned father, or someone who influences children's lives, this episode offers both the encouragement and challenge to embrace the high calling of fatherhood. The good news? You don't have to be perfect – you simply need to be present, intentional, and faithful. Listen now to discover why strong fathers create stronger families, and how you can make a difference that lasts for generations. Let's connect! Website: This Devoted Life Instagram: Devoted Motherhood & This Devoted Life Podcast Email: podcast@thisdevotedlife.com

    32 min

  3. JUN 3

    37. Spiritual Spring Cleaning: Decluttering Home and Heart

    The spiritual practice of spring cleaning reveals the powerful connection between our physical spaces and our inner lives. As James and Shanda explore in this enlightening conversation, decluttering isn't just about managing possessions—it's about creating space for what truly matters. Drawing from biblical foundations, they examine how ancient wisdom about cleanliness in Levitical law reflects God's care for both our physical and spiritual wellbeing. From the purification rituals after childbirth to the annual Passover cleansing, these practices weren't arbitrary rules but reflected a deeper understanding of how our external environments impact our internal lives. Between stories of archery tournaments and family cleaning days, a beautiful truth emerges: maintaining order in our homes can be an act of worship and stewardship. The relief that comes from tackling neglected spaces mirrors the spiritual refreshment of addressing the clutter in our souls—whether that's lingering bitterness, unhealthy control issues, or other spiritual challenges we've allowed to accumulate. The conversation turns practical as they share their personal decluttering rhythms (twice yearly for Shanda) and how identifying what matters most to your spouse can transform your cleaning efforts into meaningful acts of love. Their vulnerability shines through as they discuss their own spiritual decluttering journeys—James working through control issues and Shanda learning to trust God more fully. Most powerfully, they remind us that just as darkness is the absence of light, our spiritual blind spots become visible when we draw near to God through consistent spiritual disciplines. Regular time in Scripture, prayer, and self-examination doesn't just maintain spiritual health—it creates capacity for greater joy, peace, and effectiveness in ministry to others. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by physical disorder or spiritual heaviness, this episode offers both biblical wisdom and practical encouragement for creating space—in your home and your heart—for renewal. Join James and Shanda as they explore how cleaning house, both literally and figuratively, can become a profound spiritual practice. Let's connect! Website: This Devoted Life Instagram: Devoted Motherhood & This Devoted Life Podcast Email: podcast@thisdevotedlife.com

    30 min

  4. MAY 13

    36. Special Episode: Determination Over Inspiration/Our 12-Year-Old's Conversation with S.D. Smith

    A 12-year-old boy's conversation with his favorite author becomes a masterclass in creative purpose and vocational calling. When young Dawson sits down with children's writer S.D. Smith, their exchange transcends typical author interviews, revealing profound truths about how faith shapes our creative pursuits. Smith captivates us by comparing writing to the athletic "flow state" – that magical zone where challenges stretch us without overwhelming us, creating a sanctuary where time slows and creativity thrives. He reveals how his storytelling began organically through bedtime stories with his children, establishing a foundation of hospitality and genuine love that extends to his thousands of readers today. This authenticity offers a refreshing alternative to the performance-driven approach so many creatives feel pressured to adopt. Most powerfully, Smith articulates a distinctly Christian understanding of creative vocation. Rather than waiting for inspiration to strike, he emphasizes determination. Instead of seeking fame or self-expression, he approaches writing as service. "All vocations are about love and service," he explains, whether farming, pastoring, parenting, or storytelling. This perspective invites us to reconsider our own work – whatever it may be – as an opportunity to participate in God's ongoing creation and care for others. For any listener navigating today's self-focused culture, Smith's wisdom reminds us that true fulfillment comes through aligning our gifts with eternal purposes, living devoted to truth rather than merely pursuing personal passion. Ready to discover how your unique calling can become an expression of faith? Listen now, then share your thoughts or questions with us. Links: Green Ember Book Connect with SD Smith: Website: SDSmith Helmer in the Dragon Tomb: Kickstarter Campaign Let's connect! Website: This Devoted Life Instagram: Devoted Motherhood & This Devoted Life Podcast Email: podcast@thisdevotedlife.com

    12 min

  5. MAY 6

    35. SD Smith: Stories That Shape Our Children/Advocate vs Accuser/New Book!

    "All of life is a battle against fear. We fight it on one front and it sneaks around to our flank." These powerful words from SD Smith's Green Ember series perfectly capture the heart of our conversation with the beloved author whose rabbit-centric adventure stories have sold over a million copies and captivated families worldwide. Sam Smith joins us to share how what began as bedtime stories for his four children transformed into a literary phenomenon that helps shape children into "children of light, piercing the darkness around them." With disarming humility, Sam reveals that despite his publishing success, he believes his greatest creative achievement will always be his family. "I'll never make anything that will have more of an impact in the world than the four human beings that Jane and I are raising," he reflects, challenging the notion that family obligations hinder creative work. As we explore the landscape of children's literature, Sam articulates why modern stories often fall short – they place children at the universe's center rather than helping them find their place within something greater. Drawing from influences like C.S. Lewis and Tolkien, he explains how truly great stories offer moral clarity without sacrificing complexity, allowing young readers to witness both the consequences of bad choices and the beauty of repentance. "I want to introduce the romance, the adventure of goodness," Sam shares, revealing his mission to show children that truth isn't a cage but a key to freedom. Perhaps most compelling is Sam's distinction between being an advocate versus an accuser – choosing to create and champion good things rather than merely criticizing what's wrong. This philosophy extends to his newest venture: a video game companion to his upcoming book "Helmer and the Dragon Tomb," designed without the predatory features that plague modern gaming. It's a bold move into new territory, but one that remains faithful to his mission of serving families through wholesome, imagination-kindling media. Ready to discover stories that will shape your children's moral imagination? Visit sdsmith.com to explore the Green Ember series and support Sam's groundbreaking book and game project on Kickstarter today! Links: Green Ember Book Connect with SD Smith: Website: SDSmith Hemler in the Dragon Tomb: Kickstarter Campaign Let's connect! Website: This Devoted Life Instagram: Devoted Motherhood & This Devoted Life Podcast Email: podcast@thisdevotedlife.com

    54 min

  6. APR 29

    34. Whitney Newby: Lift Your Eyes - Finding God's Presence in Life's Chaos

    The divine moments hidden in motherhood's chaos come alive in our conversation with Whitney Newby, founder of Brighter Day Press and author of "Lift Your Eyes." Whitney's transition from nurse to entrepreneur reveals how unexpected detours can become our greatest purpose. When the pandemic halted her nursing career in 2020, Whitney transformed her family's morning time routine into resources that now serve countless homeschool families. The business has flourished to where her husband left his worship pastor role to join her full-time, showcasing their complementary partnership in both business and homeschooling their four children. Whitney's storytelling captivates as she shares receiving a left foot-shaped cookie cutter—exactly matching her unborn son's suspected club foot—with words from Psalm 139 at her gender reveal party. This remarkable confirmation that God sees our deepest fears demonstrates His intimate involvement in our lives. For the daily struggles of motherhood, Whitney offers practical wisdom through concepts like saying "change of assignment" when interrupted and praying aloud with children during stressful moments. Her perspective transforms mundane tasks into meaningful participation in God's ongoing work of creating order from chaos. Based on Psalm 121, Whitney's devotional addresses forty common motherhood scenarios through God's character as Helper, Provider, Protector, and Shepherd. She reminds us that motherhood's value isn't measured by worldly standards but by faithful presence in the assignment God has given. Whether you're knee-deep in diapers, navigating the tween years, or anywhere between, this episode will lift your eyes to see God's hand in every interruption, challenge, and ordinary Tuesday morning breakfast. Follow Whitney @brighterdaypress or visit brighterdaypress.com for resources that will enrich your family's faith journey. Links (may contain affiliate links): Lift Your Eyes by Whitney Newby We Shall All Be Changed by Whitney Pipkin Jesus On Every Page by David Murray Connect with Whitney: Website: Brighter Day Press Instagram: @brighterdaypress Let's connect! Website: This Devoted Life Instagram: Devoted Motherhood & This Devoted Life Podcast Email: podcast@thisdevotedlife.com

    41 min

  7. APR 22

    33. SarahRuth Owens: Beyond the Curriculum- Nurturing Hearts Through Education and Togetherness

    When longtime friends reconnect after seven years, the conversation flows effortlessly from educational philosophy to practical motherhood wisdom. Join Shanda and her special guest SarahRuth Owens (@kindletogetherness) as they share insights gleaned from their weekend at a Charlotte Mason homeschool conference in Tennessee. SarahRuth reveals how her family "flipped the script" on traditional roles, creating a lifestyle where both parents actively participate in their children's education and daily lives. This approach—which she calls "kindled togetherness"—required unconventional choices, including teaching ESL to Chinese students at 3am so she could be fully present with her family during the day. The heart of Charlotte Mason education comes alive as SarahRuth explains why this approach resonated with her even before motherhood: "This is a uniquely created person by God, and how can I teach them to love the world God made so much that they're willing to learn about it for the rest of their lives?" Both women share their experiences from the conference's immersion day, where they stepped into students' shoes to gain fresh perspective on the method's rigor and beauty. Don't miss SarahRuth's insights about her new devotional resource with Hosanna Revival called "The Everyday Banquet," which combines family mealtime with scripture-centered conversation. Drawing from her Jewish heritage, she created 52 weekly devotionals designed to foster meaningful family connections around the dinner table. Through candid discussion about morning routines, motherhood seasons, and the importance of being filled before pouring out, this episode offers practical encouragement for anyone seeking to center their family life on Christ. Subscribe, share, and join us in discovering how to live a life devoted to God and family. Links: The Everyday Banquet Connect with SaraRuth! Visit her website: Kindle Togetherness Connect on Instagram: @kindletogetherness Let's connect! Website: This Devoted Life Instagram: Devoted Motherhood & This Devoted Life Podcast Email: podcast@thisdevotedlife.com

    37 min

  8. APR 15

    32. Elizabeth Santelmann: Finishing the Homeschool Year Strong/Fascinating History/Snakes and Scripture

    Have you ever felt that nagging guilt when your homeschool motivation wanes as the weather turns nice? Or when your spiritual disciplines take a backseat during busy parenting seasons? Our conversation with Elizabeth Santelmann offers refreshing perspectives on finishing the homeschool year strong while nurturing your spiritual life. Elizabeth, a homeschooling mother of three boys, author, curriculum creator, and host of the Sunshine in my Nest podcast, brings authenticity and biblical wisdom to these common struggles. From her Oklahoma rattlesnake encounter during a weighted vest hike to her insights on medieval history across cultures, Elizabeth's passion for learning and teaching shines through in every story. What truly resonates is her approach to both education and spiritual growth: small, consistent steps create lasting impact. Rather than striving for perfect homeschool days or idealized quiet times, Elizabeth advocates for finding success in manageable pieces. "It's easier to fill a glass with drip, drip, drip than bursts of water," she explains, sharing how a simple index card notebook filled with Bible verses transformed her devotional life during overwhelming seasons of motherhood. The conversation ventures into fascinating territory as Elizabeth discusses her medieval history curriculum, which explores how Africa experienced a Golden Age while Europe endured the Dark Ages, and how the Great Wall of China rose alongside European castles. Her passion for showing God's hand throughout global history provides a model for teaching children to view all cultures through a biblical lens. Whether you're a homeschool parent looking for end-of-year motivation, a believer seeking sustainable spiritual practices, or someone curious about how faith intersects with education, this conversation offers practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement. Listen now and discover how small steps in faith and education can create mountains of growth in your family's life! Resources: (May contain affiliate links) Weighted Ruck Vest Praying the Bible Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life Connect with Elizabeth! Website: Sunshine in my Nest Podcast: Sunshine in my Nest Podcast Let's connect! Website: This Devoted Life Instagram: Devoted Motherhood & This Devoted Life Podcast Email: podcast@thisdevotedlife.com

    54 min
See All (42)

4.9
out of 5
31 Ratings

About

What started as a Saturday morning coffee date turned into a podcast where we discuss our faith, family, finances and so much more! In a world that is encouraging you to “live your truth” and to “follow your heart,” we want to encourage you to live Devoted to THE Truth. The Bible has a lot to say about how to live a victorious Christian life, and we want to share practical insight in how to apply those truths to your life as we endeavor to apply them to our own lives as well.We are passionate about building and growing the nuclear family, as well as sharing our expertise and experience with finances, homeschooling, and over 70 years of combined biblical knowledge. Join us as we live… This Devoted Life! James and Shanda

Information

  • Creator
    James and Shanda
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 This Devoted Life
  • Show Website
    This Devoted Life

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