Ep 134 // Brave Women, Mighty God: Saying Yes to the Holy Spirit with Author Laura L. Smith

What does it look like to follow the Holy Spirit’s nudge—especially when it’s risky, countercultural, or downright scary? Best-selling author Laura L. Smith joins me to share her journey of saying “yes” to God’s call—from corporate careers to seminary studies, from motherhood to ministry. Together, we unpack the lies women believe, the courage found in biblical women’s stories, and the everyday ways God nudges us toward Kingdom impact.

If you’ve ever wondered, “How do I know if it’s God’s voice?” or felt the tension between fear and faith, this episode will strengthen your courage and remind you that God equips you for every calling.

Quotable Quotes:

• “As far as ways to hear from the Lord, making time for Him is a great way to hear from Him.” – Laura L. Smith
• “God empowers and equips us to do crazy things that have huge ripple effects.” – Laura L. Smith
• “Sometimes hearing God isn’t an audible voice—it’s peace after prayer, a word from a friend, or even a poem on a chalkboard.” – Megan Nilsen
• “We so underestimate what we are capable of. We make ourselves much smaller than God ever intended us to be.” – Laura L. Smith

Key Takeaways:

1. God’s voice is personal – He speaks uniquely to each of us through Scripture, prayer, community, journaling, and even unexpected signs.
2. Courage is cultivated – Like Esther, Mary, and Hannah, bravery grows through prayer, fasting, and trust in God’s promises.
3. Your yes matters – Whether it’s leaving a career, stepping into seminary, or sharing your faith with a neighbor, your obedience has ripple effects beyond what you can see.
4. Truth replaces lies – God’s Word calls us chosen, holy, and His masterpiece—no matter what lies we’ve believed about ourselves.
5. Faith is contagious – Living authentically and openly as a believer invites others to ask questions and see Jesus in you.

Resources & Contact Info:

📖 Connect with Laura L. Smith:

• Instagram: @laurasmithauthor
• Website: www.laurasmithauthor.com
• Book: Brave Woman, Might God: 30 Things You Can Do
• Grab a FREE CHAPTER of Laura's book here!

✨ Stay connected with Megan:

• Website: meganbnilsen.com
• Social: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn
• Grab the Book: Untangled Faith + Companion Journal
• Free Gift: Wanna learn how to make Holy Spirit-led decisions? Go to holyspiritstoplight.com for your free guide!
• Book a free discovery call to see if Kingdom Life Coaching could help you unlock your next right step!

👉 If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations on hearing God’s voice and living with Kingdom courage.

Keywords:

• Laura L. Smith author
• Brave Woman Mighty God
• Christian women courage
• hearing God’s voice
• Holy Spirit nudges
• Kingdom living podcast
• women of the Bible bravery
• Christian seminary journey