How to Stop Comparing Your Prayer Life and Start Praying for Real With Shellie Tomlinson

January 21, 2026

00:00 32:24

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Have you ever listened to someone pray and thought, Well… I’ll never sound like that?

In this encouraging, laugh-a-little-and-breathe-a-lot conversation, I sit down with author and speaker Shellie Tomlinson to talk about the comparison trap in prayer—and how to get free from it. Shellie shares why God isn’t looking for “perfect prayers” or spiritual clones. He wants you.

We unpack simple, practical habits that help you linger with God, stop quitting when your mind wanders, and remember that prayer isn’t the goal—a deeper relationship with Jesus is.

Shellie shares one simple reminder about approaching God in prayer that I’m sure I’ll never forget. You don’t want to miss it! (Hint: it’s toward the end of the episode, so listen all the way to the end.)

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

Listen in to learn more :

(2:40) Embracing Individual Prayer Styles
(7:36) Overcoming Distraction and Lingering in Prayer
(20:17) Conversational Communication with God
(25:24) Remembering Jesus is the Way to God

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 confidence in their faith.

Connect Shellie

Website -https://belleofallthingssouthern.com/

Shellie’s new book https://belleofallthingssouthern.com/dont-try-to-pray-like-her/

Pre-order before February 3 and email proof of purchase to: praywithshelly@gmail.com. You’ll receive Shelley’s introduction + first chapter (“Remember to Use the Door”) immediately.

Connect with Donna

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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Meet Your Host

As a pastor’s wife with decades ministering to women, Donna Jones brings a wellspring of real-life wisdom, a lifetime of Biblical knowledge, and a dose of wit to propel listeners forward in their journey with God. She’s been described as “practical, biblical, engaging, and real, with the warmth you’d expect from a friend.”

Donna is the author of three books, including Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God and Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life. She’s written six Bible studies, four that deal with topics near to a woman’s heart: family, friendship, confidence, and contentment. Her works have been featured on Proverbs 31 Ministries, Focus on the Family, and Crosswalk. A national and international speaker, Donna has spoken to audiences in 28 states and on four continents and has been a guest on numerous podcasts and television shows.

Connect with Donna at www.donnajones.org, on Instagram @donnaajones or Facebook at Donna Jones, Speaker & Author.